bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting the in vivo developmental toxicity of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) in rats by an in vitro–in silico approach
Authors: Wang Danlei , Rietdijk Maartje H. , Kamelia Lenny , Boogaard Peter J. , Rietjens Ivonne M. C. M.
Published: August 2021

Developmental toxicity testing is an animal-intensive endpoints in toxicity testing and calls for animal-free alternatives. Previous studies showed the applicability of an in vitro–in silico approach for predicting developmental toxicity of a range of compounds, based on data from the mouse embryonic stem cell test (EST) combined with physiologically based kinetic (PBK) modelling facilitated reverse dosimetry. In the current study, the use of this approach for predicting developmental toxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was evaluated, using benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) as a model compound. A rat PBK model of BaP was developed to simulate the kinetics of its main metabolite 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene (3-OHBaP), shown previously to be responsible for the developmental toxicity of BaP. Comparison to in vivo kinetic data showed that the model adequately predicted BaP and 3-OHBaP blood concentrations in the rat. Using this PBK model and reverse dosimetry, a concentration–response curve for 3-OHBaP obtained in the EST was translated into an in vivo dose–response curve for developmental toxicity of BaP in rats upon single or repeated dose exposure. The predicted half maximal effect doses (ED50) amounted to 67 and 45 mg/kg bw being comparable to the ED50 derived from the in vivo dose–response data reported for BaP in the literature, of 29 mg/kg bw. The present study provides a proof of principle of applying this in vitro–in silico approach for evaluating developmental toxicity of BaP and may provide a promising strategy for predicting the developmental toxicity of related PAHs, without the need for extensive animal testing.
Multiparametric cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric and adolescent patients with acute myocarditis
Authors: Isaak Alexander , Bischoff Leon M. , Faron Anton , Endler Christoph , Mesropyan Narine , Sprinkart Alois M. , Pieper Claus C. , Kuetting Daniel , Dabir Darius , Attenberger Ulrike , Luetkens Julian A.
Published: August 2021

Background

The diagnostic value of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) employing the 2018 Lake Louise criteria in pediatric and adolescent patients with acute myocarditis is undefined.

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic value of the Lake Louise criteria in pediatric and adolescent patients with suspected acute myocarditis and to show the utility of cardiac MRI for follow-up in this patient cohort.

Materials and methods

Forty-three patients (age range: 8–21 years) with suspected acute myocarditis and 13 control patients who underwent cardiac MRI were retrospectively analyzed. T2-weighted and late gadolinium enhancement imaging were performed in all patients. T1 and T2 mapping were available in 26/43 patients (60%). The Lake Louise criteria were assessed. In 27/43 patients (63%), cardiac MRI follow-up was available. Receiver operating characteristic analysis, Pearson’s correlation coefficient and paired Student’s t-test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

In the total cohort, the Lake Louise criteria achieved a sensitivity of 86% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 72–95%) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI: 79–100%) for the diagnosis of acute myocarditis. In the subgroup of patients with available mapping parameters, the diagnostic performance of the Lake Louise criteria was higher when mapping parameters were implemented into the score (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: 0.944 vs. 0.870; P=0.033). T2 relaxation times were higher in patients with admission to the intermediate care unit and were associated with the length of intermediate care unit stay (r=0.879, P=0.049). Cardiac MRI markers of active inflammation decreased on follow-up examinations (e.g., T1 relaxation times: 1,032±39 ms vs. 975±33 ms, P<0.001; T2 relaxation times: 58±5 ms vs. 54±5 ms, P=0.003).

Conclusion

The Lake Louise criteria have a high diagnostic performance for the diagnosis of acute myocarditis and are a valuable tool for follow-up in pediatric and adolescent patients. The mapping techniques enhance the diagnostic performance of the 2018 Lake Louise criteria.
Cost analysis between mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy with and without vacuum-assisted access sheath
Authors: Lievore Elena , Zanetti Stefano Paolo , Fulgheri Irene , Turetti Matteo , Silvani Carlo , Bebi Carolina , Ripa Francesco , Lucignani Gianpaolo , Pozzi Edoardo , Rocchini Lorenzo , De Lorenzis Elisa , Albo Giancarlo , Longo Fabrizio , Salonia Andrea , Montanari Emanuele , Boeri Luca
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To perform a cost analysis between vacuum-assisted percutaneous nephrolithotomy (vmPCNL) and minimally invasive PCNL (MIP) and explore potential predictors of costs associated with the procedures.

Methods

We analyzed data from 225 patients who underwent vmPCNL or MIP at a single tertiary referral academic center between January 2016 and December 2020. We collected patients’ demographics, peri-and postoperative data and detailed expense records. After propensity score matching, 108 (66.7%) vmPCNL and 54 (33.3%) MIP procedures were analyzed. Descriptive statistics assessed differences in clinical and operative parameters. Univariable and multivariable linear regression models tested the association between clinical variables and costs.

Results

Operative time (OT) was shorter for vmPCNL, and the use of additional instruments to complete litholapaxy was more frequent in MIP (all p ≤ 0.01). Length of stay (LOS) was longer for MIP patients (p = 0.03) and the stone-free (SF) rate was higher after vmPCNL (p = 0.04). The overall instrumentation cost was higher for vmPCNL (p < 0.001), but total procedural costs were equivalent (p = 0.9). However, the overall cost for the hospitalization was higher for MIP than vmPCNL (p = 0.01). Univariable linear regression revealed that patient’s comorbidities, OT, any postoperative complication and LOS were associated with hospitalization costs (all p < 0.001). Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that LOS and OT were associated with hospitalization costs (all p < 0.001), after accounting for vmPCNL procedure, patients’ comorbidities, and complications.

Conclusion

vmPCNL may represent a valid option due to clinical and economic benefits. Shorter OT, the lower need for disposable equipment and the lower complication rate reduced procedural and hospitalization costs.
Incidence of surgical procedures for gastrointestinal complications after abdominal wall closure in patients with gastroschisis and omphalocele
Authors: Haghshenas M. , Rolle U. , Hutter M. , Theilen T. M.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to define the extent of additional surgical procedures after abdominal wall closure (AWC) in patients with gastroschisis (GS) and omphalocele (OC) with special focus on gastrointestinal related operations.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed including all operations in GS and OC patients in the first year after AWC (2010–2019). The risk for surgery was calculated using the one-year cumulative incidence (CI).

Results

33 GS patients (18 simple GS, 15 complex) and 24 OC patients (12 without (= OCL), 12 OC patients with liver protrusion (= OCL +)) were eligible for analysis. 43 secondary operations (23 in GS, 20 in OC patients) occurred after a median time of 84 days (16–824) in GS and 114.5 days (12–4368) in OC. Patients with complex versus simple GS had a significantly higher risk of undergoing a secondary operation (one-year CI 64.3% vs. 24.4%; p = 0.05). 86.5% of surgical procedures in complex GS and 36.3% in OCL + were related to gastrointestinal complications. Complex GS had a significantly higher risk for GI-related surgery than simple GS. Bowel obstruction was a risk factor for surgery in complex GS (one-year CI 35.7%).

Conclusion

Complex GS and OCL + patients had the highest risk of undergoing secondary operations, especially those with gastrointestinal complications.
Course of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio in fetal growth restriction and correlation with biometric measurements, feto-maternal Doppler parameters and time to delivery
Authors: Andrikos A. , Andrikos D. , Schmidt B. , Birdir C. , Kimmig R. , Gellhaus A. , Köninger A.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The study aimed to assess the course of the soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio in pregnant women with fetal growth restriction (FGR) and to evaluate potential associations between the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio and feto-maternal Doppler parameters, fetal biometric measurements and the time between study inclusion and birth (“time to delivery”).

Methods

This was a retrospective longitudinal single center study including 52 FGR cases. The serum levels of sFlt-1 and PlGF were measured by using the BRAHMS Kryptor Compact PLUS. Fetal biometric and Doppler parameters, as well as the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, were obtained both upon study inclusion and upon birth.

Results

Various associations between the levels of the biomarkers in maternal blood upon study inclusion and upon birth and sonographic parameters were observed in FGR cases: umbilical artery (p < 0.01), uterine arteries (p < 0.01), ductus venosus (p < 0.05), cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) (p < 0.01), femur length (p < 0.01) and birth weight (p < 0.01). The higher the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio upon study inclusion, the shorter the “time to delivery” (p < 0.01). The multivariate regression analysis showed that the greater the daily percentage increase of the angiogenic markers, the shorter the “time to delivery” (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The fetal well-being, as measured by feto-maternal Doppler parameters such as CPR and the severity of the placental dysfunction, as measured by the urgency of birth and birth weight, is reflected by the level of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio in the maternal serum. A rapid daily increase of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio is significantly associated with the clinical progression of the disease.
Effects of single bouts of different endurance exercises with different intensities on microRNA biomarkers with and without blood flow restriction: a three-arm, randomized crossover trial
Authors: Sieland Johanna , Niederer Daniel , Engeroff Tobias , Vogt Lutz , Troidl Christian , Schmitz-Rixen Thomas , Banzer Winfried , Troidl Kerstin
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Physical activity is associated with altered levels of circulating microRNAs (ci-miRNAs). Changes in miRNA expression have great potential to modulate biological pathways of skeletal muscle hypertrophy and metabolism. This study was designed to determine whether the profile of ci-miRNAs is altered after different approaches of endurance exercise.

Methods

Eighteen healthy volunteers (aged 24 ± 3 years) participated this three-arm, randomized-balanced crossover study. Each arm was a single bout of treadmill-based acute endurance exercise at (1) 100% of the individual anaerobic threshold (IANS), (2) at 80% of the IANS and (3) at 80% of the IANS with blood flow restriction (BFR). Load-associated outcomes (fatigue, feeling, heart rate, and exhaustion) as well as acute effects (circulating miRNA patterns and lactate) were determined.

Results

All training interventions increased the lactate concentration (LC) and heart rate (HR) (p < 0.001). The high-intensity intervention (HI) resulted in a higher LC than both lower intensity protocols (p < 0.001). The low-intensity blood flow restriction (LI-BFR) protocol led to a higher HR and higher LC than the low-intensity (LI) protocol without BFR (p = 0.037 and p = 0.003). The level of miR-142-5p and miR-197-3p were up-regulated in both interventions without BFR (p < 0.05). After LI exercise, the expression of miR-342-3p was up-regulated (p = 0.038). In LI-BFR, the level of miR-342-3p and miR-424-5p was confirmed to be up-regulated (p < 0.05). Three miRNAs and LC show a significant negative correlation (miR-99a-5p, p = 0.011, r = − 0.343/miR-199a-3p, p = 0.045, r = − 0.274/miR-125b-5p, p = 0.026, r = − 0.302). Two partial correlations (intervention partialized) showed a systematic impact of the type of exercise (LI-BFR vs. HI) (miR-99a-59: r = − 0.280/miR-199a-3p: r = − 0.293).

Conclusion

MiRNA expression patterns differ according to type of activity. We concluded that not only the intensity of the exercise (LC) is decisive for the release of circulating miRNAs—as essential is the type of training and the oxygen supply.
Harry Kesten’s work in probability theory
Authors: Grimmett Geoffrey R.
Published: August 2021

We survey the published work of Harry Kesten in probability theory, with emphasis on his contributions to random walks, branching processes, percolation, and related topics.
Cystatin C relates to metabolism in healthy, pubertal adolescents
Authors: Ziegelasch Niels , Vogel Mandy , Körner Antje , Koch Eva , Jurkutat Anne , Ceglarek Uta , Dittrich Katalin , Kiess Wieland
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The cystatin C (CysC) serum level is a marker of glomerular filtration rate and depends on age, gender, and pubertal stage. We hypothesize that CysC might overall reflect energy homeostasis and be regulated by components of the endocrine system and metabolites in pubertal adolescents.

Methods

Serum CysC levels and further possible effector parameters in 5355 fasting, morning venous blood samples from 2035 healthy participants of the LIFE Child cohort study (age 8 to 18 years) were analyzed. Recruitment started in 2011, with probands followed up once a year. Linear univariate and stepwise multivariate regression analyses were performed.

Results

Annual growth rate, serum levels of thyroid hormones, parathyroid hormone, insulin-like growth factor 1, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), uric acid, and alkaline phosphatase show relevant and significant associations with CysC serum concentrations (p <0.001). Furthermore, male probands’ CysC correlated with the body mass index and testosterone among other sexual hormones. Multivariate analyses revealed that uric acid and HbA1c are associated variables of CysC independent from gender (p <0.001). In males, alkaline phosphatase (p <0.001) is additionally significantly associated with CysC. Thyroid hormones show significant correlations only in multivariate analyses in females (p <0.001).

Conclusions

The described associations strongly suggest an impact of children’s metabolism on CysC serum levels. These alterations need to be considered in kidney diagnostics using CysC in adolescents. Additionally, further studies are needed on CysC in children.

Graphical abstract
Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy in children and adolescents with obsessive compulsive disorder: a feasibility study
Authors: Hollmann Karsten , Allgaier Katharina , Hohnecker Carolin S. , Lautenbacher Heinrich , Bizu Verena , Nickola Matthias , Wewetzer Gunilla , Wewetzer Christoph , Ivarsson Tord , Skokauskas Norbert , Wolters Lidewij H. , Skarphedinsson Gudmundur , Weidle Bernhard , de Haan Else , Torp Nor Christan , Compton Scott N. , Calvo Rosa , Lera-Miguel Sara , Haigis Anna , Renner Tobias J. , Conzelmann Annette
Published: August 2021

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the first choice of treatment of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents. However, there is often a lack of access to appropriate treatment close to the home of the patients. An internet-based CBT via videoconferencing could facilitate access to state-of-the-art treatment even in remote areas. The aim of this study was to investigate feasibility and acceptability of this telemedical approach. A total of nine children received 14 sessions of CBT. The first session took place face-to-face, the remaining 13 sessions via videoconference. OCD symptoms were recorded with a smartphone app and therapy materials were made accessible in a data cloud. We assessed diagnostic data before and after treatment and obtained measures to feasibility, treatment satisfaction and acceptability. Outcomes showed high acceptance and satisfaction on the part of patients with online treatment (89%) and that face-to-face therapy was not preferred over an internet-based approach (67%). The majority of patients and their parents classified the quality of treatment as high. They emphasized the usefulness of exposures with response prevention (E/RP) in triggering situations at home. The app itself was rated as easy to operate and useful. In addition to feasibility, a significant decrease in obsessive–compulsive symptoms was also achieved. Internet-based CBT for pediatric OCD is feasible and well received by the patients and their parents. Furthermore, obsessive–compulsive symptomatology decreased in all patients. The results of this study are encouraging and suggest the significance of further research regarding this technology-supported approach, with a specific focus on efficacy.

Trial registration number: Clinical trials AZ53-5400.1-004/44.
Development of a prognostic tool: based on risk factors for tooth loss after active periodontal therapy
Authors: Rahim-Wöstefeld Sonja , Kronsteiner Dorothea , ElSayed Shirin , ElSayed Nihad , Eickholz Peter , Pretzl Bernadette
Published: August 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop a prognostic tool to estimate long-term tooth retention in periodontitis patients at the beginning of active periodontal therapy (APT).

Material and methods

Tooth-related factors (type, location, bone loss (BL), infrabony defects, furcation involvement (FI), abutment status), and patient-related factors (age, gender, smoking, diabetes, plaque control record) were investigated in patients who had completed APT 10 years before. Descriptive analysis was performed, and a generalized linear-mixed model-tree was used to identify predictors for the main outcome variable tooth loss. To evaluate goodness-of-fit, the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated using cross-validation. A bootstrap approach was used to robustly identify risk factors while avoiding overfitting.

Results

Only a small percentage of teeth was lost during 10 years of supportive periodontal therapy (SPT; 0.15/year/patient). The risk factors abutment function, diabetes, and the risk indicator BL, FI, and age (≤ 61 vs. > 61) were identified to predict tooth loss. The prediction model reached an AUC of 0.77.

Conclusion

This quantitative prognostic model supports data-driven decision-making while establishing a treatment plan in periodontitis patients. In light of this, the presented prognostic tool may be of supporting value.

Clinical relevance

In daily clinical practice, a quantitative prognostic tool may support dentists with data-based decision-making. However, it should be stressed that treatment planning is strongly associated with the patient’s wishes and adherence. The tool described here may support establishment of an individual treatment plan for periodontally compromised patients.
Risk factors for repeated general anesthesia for dental treatment of adult patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities
Authors: Maes Mona Shaghayegh , Kanzow Philipp , Biermann Jana , Leha Andreas , Hrasky Valentina , Wiegand Annette
Published: August 2021

Aim

Repeated dental treatment of patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities under general anesthesia (GA) often becomes necessary. This study aimed to identify potential risk factors predictive of repeated dental treatment under general anesthesia.

Materials and methods

Data of adult patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities receiving dental treatment under GA within a time period of 7 years were analyzed (n = 203, mean age: 41.0 ± 14.9 years). All patients received comprehensive dental treatment (professional tooth cleaning, periodontal therapy, composite restorations, and/or extractions); patients receiving extractions only for emergency dental care were not included as a second intervention for restorative treatment often followed. Demographic, anamnestic, oral health, and treatment factors were obtained from dental records. Duration of intervals without dental treatment under GA was assessed using Kaplan–Meier statistics. Potential predictive factors were tested using univariate and multivariate cox regression analyses.

Results

Thirty-five patients (17.2%) received a second and five patients (2.5%) a third dental treatment under GA during that period. In the univariate analysis, patients’ age, living situation, and nutrition were associated with repeated GA. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, only nutrition remained significant. Risk for repeated treatment increased if patients were tube-fed (HR: 7.54, p = 0.001) or received pureed/liquid food (HR: 4.32, p = 0.007) compared to nutrition without limitation.

Conclusion

In adult patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities, nutrition affects the risk for repeated dental treatment under GA.

Clinical relevance

Identification of risk factors making repeated dental treatment under GA of patients with intellectual and/or physical disabilities more likely is essential to adjust preventive measures.
When does risk become residual? A systematic review of research on flood risk management in West Africa
Authors: Wagner Simon , Souvignet Maxime , Walz Yvonne , Balogun Kehinde , Komi Kossi , Kreft Sönke , Rhyner Jakob
Published: August 2021

Flood events in West Africa have devastating impacts on the lives of people. Additionally, developments such as climate change, settlement expansion into flood-prone areas, and modification of rivers are expected to increase flood risk in the future. Policy documents have issued calls for conducting local risk assessments and understanding disaster risk in diverse aspects, leading to an increase in such research. Similarly, in a shift from flood protection to flood risk management, the consideration of various dimensions of flood risk, the necessity of addressing flood risk through an integrated strategy containing structural and non-structural measures, and the presence of residual risk are critical perspectives raised. However, the notion of “residual risk” remains yet to be taken up in flood risk management-related academic literature. This systematic review seeks to approach the notion of residual risk by reviewing information on flood impacts, common measures, and recommendations in academic literature. The review reveals various dimensions of impacts from residual flood risk aside from material damage, in particular, health impacts and economic losses. Infrastructural measures were a dominant category of measures before and after flood events and in recommendations, despite their shortcomings. Also, spatial planning interventions, a more participatory and inclusive governance approach, including local knowledge, sensitisation, and early warning systems, were deemed critical. In the absence of widespread access to insurance schemes, support from social networks after flood events emerged as the most frequent measure. This finding calls for in-depth assessments of those networks and research on potential complementary formal risk transfer mechanisms.
Phase locked loop-based clock synthesizer for reconfigurable analog-to-digital converters
Authors: Castro Mateus B. , Souza Raphael R. N. , Junior Agord M. P. , Lima Eduardo R. , Manera Leandro T.
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the complete design of a phase locked loop-based clock synthesizer for reconfigurable analog-to-digital converters. The synthesizer was implemented in TSMC 65 nm CMOS process technology and the presented results were obtained from extracted layout view with parasitics. The synthesizer generates clock frequencies ranging from 40 to 230 MHz considering a reference frequency of 10 MHz and a supply voltage of 1.2 V. Worst case current consumption is 634 $$\mu $$
μ
W, settling time is 6 $$\mu $$
μ
s, maximum jitter is 1.3 ns in a 0.037 mm$$^2$$

2

area. Performance was validated in a test $$\Sigma \Delta $$

Σ
Δ

Modulator with bandwidths of 200 kHz, 500 kHz and 2 MHz, and oversampling frequencies of 40, 60 and 80 MHz respectively, with negligible signal-to-noise ratio degradation compared to an ideal clock.
Phylogeography of Hyalomma (Euhyalomma) lusitanicum (Acarina, Parasitiformes, Ixodidae) in Andalusia based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene
Authors: Márquez Francisco J. , Caruz Antonio
Published: August 2021

The genetic population structure relationships of Hyalomma (Euhyalomma) lusitanicum in Andalusia (the south of the Iberian Peninsula) were examined using mtDNA sequence data from 887 bp of cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The sequence for the COI region was determined for 84 individuals collected in several localities of Andalusia, and 10 for other localities (i.e., five from Toledo, central Iberian Peninsula, four from Sicily (Italy) and one from Canary Island). Seventeen haplotypes were detected, including 27 polymorphic sites. The number of amino acid substitutions per site from mean diversity calculations for the entire population was 0.017. AMOVA analysis revealed a low gene flow that characterises the genetic population structure of this species in South Iberian Peninsula, with a haplotype diversity (h) value of 0.815. No geographically induced differentiation was observed, and separate evolutionary units were not detected. Our results indicate low genetic diversity across the geographical range of H. lusitanicum tick in Andalusia. Our data do not show any genetic discontinuity between the tick populations studied, including specimens from Canary Island and Sicily (Italy).
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography for optimizing the outcomes of pulmonary vein isolation with cryoablation -the role of isolation of PVs including carina-
Authors: Sakamoto Yusuke , Osanai Hiroyuki , Tanaka Yuki , Hiramatsu Shotaro , Matsumoto Hikari , Tagahara Kensuke , Hosono Hirotaka , Miyamoto Shun , Kondo Shun , Kanbara Takahiro , Nakashima Yoshihito , Asano Hiroshi , Ajioka Masayoshi
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Compared with conventional pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with radiofrequency ablation, PVI with cryoballoon is an easier and shorter procedure without reconnection, particularly in the superior pulmonary vein. However, the durability of the cryoballoon may be reduced due to anatomical factors and the position of the pulmonary vein (PV). Further, inadequate isolation of the carina leads to recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF). We aimed to determine whether using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) for patient selection improves the early success rate and prevents the recurrence of AF in PVI with cryoballoon.

Methods

We evaluated patients who underwent ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in our hospital between July 2019 and November 2020. After excluding patients with contraindications for cryoablation, 50 patients were selected through visual inspection of the results of preoperative contrast-enhanced CT. A treatment plan was established, and the clinical course and outcomes were followed up.

Results

Of the 200 PVs of the 50 patients, only 8 PVs (4%) were incompletely isolated with a single cryoablation. Six of the eight PVs were successfully isolated with additional cryoablation. Only 2 patients (4%) underwent additional PVI with radiofrequency ablation. Four patients had AF recurrence within a mean follow-up period of 14.3 ± 5.1 months. The rate of sinus rhythm maintenance was 92%. PV reconnection was observed in 2 patients. None of the patients had postoperative atrial flutter.

Conclusions

Selecting patients for cryoablation according to contrast-enhanced CT findings made the procedure easier to perform, leading to improved early success rates and clinical course.
Clinical Considerations of Isavuconazole Administration in High-Risk Hematological Patients: A Single-Center 5-Year Experience
Authors: Kronig Ilona , Masouridi-Levrat Stavroula , Chalandon Yves , Glampedakis Emmanouil , Vernaz Nathalie , Van Delden Christian , Neofytos Dionysios
Published: August 2021

Background

There are limited real-life data on isavuconazole prophylaxis and treatment of invasive mold infections (IMI) in hematological patients and allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients.

Objectives

Primary objective was to describe the indications of real-life isavuconazole administration at a university hospital. Secondary objectives included the description of liver function tests and QTc interval between baseline and end of treatment (EOT), clinical outcomes and breakthrough IMI by the EOT.

Patients/Methods

This was a 5-year single-center retrospective study of all adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia and/or allogeneic HCT recipients who received isavuconazole as prophylaxis and/or treatment between June 1, 2016, and July 31, 2020.

Results

Among 30 identified patients, the indications for isavuconazole administration were adverse events associated with prior antifungal treatment (N: 18, 60%: hepatotoxicity, renal insufficiency, long QTc interval, neurotoxicity, and potential drug–drug interactions in 6, 4, 3, 1 and 4 patients, respectively), clinical efficacy (N: 5, 16.6%), and other reasons (N: 10, 33.3%; 5/10 patients treated with isavuconazole to facilitate hospital discharge with orally administered appropriate treatment). Alanine aminotransferase significantly decreased from baseline (mean: 129 IU/L, range: 73, 202) to a mean of 48 IU/L (range: 20, 80) by day 14 (P-value: 0.02), 23.5 IU/L (range: 20, 27) by day 28 (P-value: 0.03) and 16.5 IU/L (range: 16, 17) by day 42 (P-value: 0.009). The QTc interval decreased from baseline (mean: 456.8 ms, range: 390, 533) to EOT (mean: 433.8 ms, range: 400, 472;P-value: 0.03). The mean isavuconazole plasma concentration was 2.9 mg/L (range: 0.9, 6.7). There was no breakthrough IMI observed.

Conclusion

Isavuconazole is a safe and reliable antifungal agent in complex hematological patients, with relatively low hepatotoxicity and QTc interval shortening properties.
The effects of taxes and subsidies on environmental qualities in a differentiated duopoly
Authors: Garella Paolo G.
Published: August 2021

In a horizontally differentiated duopoly, a green attribute (environmental quality) can be added to the products. Average green quality generates a positive externality entering the Government’s objective function (and possibly consumers’ utility). A tax on the “dirtiest” product decreases its environmental quality but it increases that of the cleaner rival enough to imply an average quality increase, achieving environmental protection. The same holds for a subsidy to production targeted to the cleanest producer. A generic quality-related subsidy also increases the positive externality, increases profits of the greenest and lowers those of the dirtiest producer. Education campaigns by the Government also increase average green quality.
Fractional differentiation and its use in machine learning
Authors: Walasek Rafał , Gajda Janusz
Published: August 2021

This article covers the implementation of fractional (non-integer order) differentiation on real data of four datasets based on stock prices of main international stock indexes: WIG 20, S&P 500, DAX and Nikkei 225. This concept has been proposed by Lopez de Prado [5] to find the most appropriate balance between zero differentiation and fully differentiated time series. The aim is making time series stationary while keeping its memory and predictive power. In addition, this paper compares fractional and classical differentiation in terms of the effectiveness of artificial neural networks. Root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) are employed in this comparison. Our investigations have determined the conclusion that fractional differentiation plays an important role and leads to more accurate predictions in case of ANN.
Upscale fermenter design for lactic acid production from cheese whey permeate focusing on impeller selection and energy optimization
Authors: Mediboyina Maneesh Kumar , Holden Nicholas M. , O’Neill Simon , Routledge Kai , Morrissey Bill , Lawless Fergal , Murphy Fionnuala
Published: August 2021

This study focusses on the design and scale-up of industrial lactic acid production by fermentation of dairy cheese whey permeate based on standard methodological parameters. The aim was to address the shortcomings of standard scale-up methodologies and provide a framework for fermenter scale-up that enables the accurate estimation of energy consumption by suitable selection of turbine and speed for industrial deployment. Moreover, life cycle assessment (LCA) was carried out to identify the potential impacts and possibilities to reduce the operation associated emissions at an early stage. The findings showed that a 3000 times scale-up strategy assuming constant geometric dimensions and specific energy consumption (P/Vw) resulted in lower impeller speed and energy demand. The Rushton turbine blade (RTB) and LightninA315 four-blade hydrofoil (LA315) were found to have the highest and lowest torque output, respectively, at a similar P/Vw of 2.8 kWm−3, with agitation speeds of 1.33 and 2.5 s−1, respectively. RTB demonstrating lower shear damage towards cells (up to 1.33 s−1) was selected because it permits high torque, low-power and acceptable turbulence. The LCA results showed a strong relation between the number of impellers installed and associated emissions suggesting a trade-off between mixing performance and environmental impacts.
Quantitative study on natural gas production risk of Carboniferous gas reservoir in eastern Sichuan
Authors: Yu Guo , Li Haitao , Chen Yanru , Liu Linqing , Wang Chenyu , Chen Yu , Zhang Dongming
Published: August 2021

Quantifying natural gas production risk can help guide natural gas exploration and development in Carboniferous gas reservoirs. In this study, the Monte Carlo probability method is used to obtain the probability distribution and growth curve of each production risk factor and production in a Carboniferous gas reservoir in eastern Sichuan. In addition, the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method is used to conduct the sensitivity analysis of the risk factors, and the natural gas production and realization probability under different risk factors are obtained. The research results show that: (1) the risk factor–production growth curve and probability distribution are calculated by the Monte Carlo probability method. The average annual production under the stable production stage under different realization probabilities is obtained. The maximum probability range of annual production is $$\left( {43.43 - 126.35} \right) \times 10^{8} {\text{m}}^{3} /{\text{year}}$$

43.43
-
126.35

×

10
8

m

3

/
year

, and the probability range is 14.59–92.88%. (2) The risk factor sensitivity analysis is significantly affected by the probability interval. In the entire probability interval, the more sensitive risk factors are the average production of the kilometer-deep well (D) and the production rate in the stable production stage (A). During the exploration and development of natural gas, these two risk factors can be adjusted to increase production.
Correction to: Nuclear m6A reader YTHDC1 regulates the scaffold function of LINE1 RNA in mouse ESCs and early embryos
Authors: Chen Chuan , Liu Wenqiang , Guo Jiayin , Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Xuelian , Liu Jun , Dou Xiaoyang , Le Rongrong , Huang Yixin , Li Chong , Yang Lingyue , Kou Xiaochen , Zhao Yanhong , Wu You , Chen Jiayu , Wang Hong , Shen Bin , Gao Yawei , Gao Shaorong
Published: August 2021

The original article can be found online at 10.1007/s13238-021-00837-8.
Sustainable adsorption method for the remediation of malachite green dye using nutraceutical industrial fenugreek seed spent
Authors: Taqui Syed Noeman , Mohan C. S.  , Khatoon Bibi Ahmadi , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Khan T. M. Yunus , Mujtaba M. A. , Ahmed Waqar , Elfasakhany Ashraf , Kumar Ravinder , Pruncu Catalin I.
Published: August 2021

Nutraceutical industrial fenugreek seed spent (NIFGS), a relatively low-cost material abundantly available with nearly negligible toxicity for the bioremediation of malachite green (MG) dye from aqueous media, is reported. Studies on the various parameters affecting the adsorption capacity of NIFGS were carried out to evaluate the kinetics and the equilibrium thermodynamics. All the experiments were designed at about pH 7. The adsorption isotherm model proposed by Langmuir fits better than the Freundlich isotherm model. Kinetic study data confirms the viability of pseudo-second-order model. Calculated thermodynamic factors suggest that the adsorption phenomenon is endothermic, almost instantaneous, and physical in nature.
A spark of hope: histopathological and functional recovery after critical COVID-19
Authors: Boehm Anna , Luger Anna K. , Schmitz Katja , Cima Katharina , Patscheider Daniel Hölbling , Augustin Florian , Jakob Lisa Maria , Obermayer Astrid , Weiss Guenter , Stoiber Walter , Widmann Gerlig , Loeffler-Ragg Judith
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

There are substantial concerns about fibrotic and vascular pulmonary sequelae after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).AQ1 Histopathology reports of lung biopsies from COVID-19 survivors are scarce.

CASE

We herein report results of functional and histopathological studies in a 70 year-old man undergoing a co-incidental tumor lobectomy six months after long-term mechanical ventilation for COVID-19 pneumonia.

CONCLUSION

Despite several unfavorable risk factors, this case presentation shows a completed pulmonary recovery process within a few months.
A noise-based privacy preserving model for Internet of Things
Authors: Jain Shelendra Kumar , Kesswani Nishtha
Published: August 2021

With the ever-increasing number of devices, the Internet of Things facilitates the connection between the devices in the hyper-connected world. As the number of interconnected devices increases, sensitive data disclosure becomes an important issue that needs to be addressed. In order to prevent the disclosure of sensitive data, effective and feasible privacy preservation strategies are necessary. A noise-based privacy-preserving model has been proposed in this article. The components of the noise-based privacy-preserving model include Multilevel Noise Treatment for data collection; user preferences-based data classifier to classify sensitive and non-sensitive data; Noise Removal and Fuzzification Mechanism for data access and user-customized privacy preservation mechanism. Experiments have been conducted to evaluate the performance and feasibility of the proposed model. The results have been compared with existing approaches. The experimental results show an improvement in the proposed noise-based privacy-preserving model in terms of computational overhead. The comparative analysis indicates that the proposed model without the fuzzifier has around 52–77% less computational overhead than the Data access control scheme and 46–70% less computational overhead compared to the Dynamic Privacy Protection model. The proposed model with the fuzzifier has around 48–73% less computational overhead compared to the Data access control scheme and 31–63% less computational overhead compared to the Dynamic Privacy Protection model. Furthermore, the privacy analysis has been done with the relevant approaches. The results indicate that the proposed model can customize privacy as per the users’ preferences and at the same time takes less execution time which reduces the overhead on the resource constraint IoT devices.
A world beyond double-helical nucleic acids: the structural diversity of tetra-stranded G-quadruplexes
Authors: Weisz Klaus
Published: August 2021

Nucleic acids can adopt various secondary structures including double-, triple-, and tetra-stranded helices that differ by the specific hydrogen bond mediated pairing pattern between their nucleobase constituents. Whereas double-helical DNA relies on Watson–Crick base pairing to play a prominent role in storing genetic information, G-quadruplexes are tetra-stranded structures that are formed by the association of guanine bases from G-rich DNA and RNA sequences. During the last few decades, G-quadruplexes have attracted considerable interest after the realization that they form and exert regulatory functions in vivo. In addition, quadruplex architectures have also been recognized as versatile and powerful tools in a growing number of technological applications. To appreciate the astonishing structural diversity of these tetra-stranded structures and to give some insight into basic interactions that govern their folding, this article gives an overview of quadruplex structures and rules associated with the formation of different topologies. A brief discussion will also focus on nonconventional quadruplexes as well as on general principles when targeting quadruplexes with ligands.

Graphic abstract
Smart Sustainable Cities of the New Millennium: Towards Design for Nature
Authors: Catalano Chiara , Meslec Mihaela , Boileau Jules , Guarino Riccardo , Aurich Isabella , Baumann Nathalie , Chartier Frédéric , Dalix Pascale , Deramond Sophie , Laube Patrick , Lee Angela Ka Ki , Ochsner Pascal , Pasturel Marine , Soret Marie , Moulherat Sylvain
Published: August 2021

Urban environments consist of a mosaic of natural fragments, planned and unintentional habitats hosting both introduced and spontaneous species. The latter group exploits abandoned and degraded urban niches which, in the case of plants, form what is called thethird landscape. In the Anthropocene, cities, open spaces and buildings must be planned and designed considering not only human needs but also those of other living organisms. The scientific approach of habitat sharing is defined asreconciliation ecology, whilst the action of implementing the ecosystem services and functioning of such anthropogenic habitats is calledUrban Rehabilitation. However, urban development still represents the main cause of biodiversity loss worldwide. Yet, the approach of planners and landscape architects highly diverges from that of ecologists and scientists on how to perceive, define and design urban green and blue infrastructure. For instance, designers focus on the positive impact thatnature(generally associated with indoor and outdoor greeneries) has onhumanwell-being, often neglecting ecosystems’ health. Instead, considering the negative impact of any form of development and to achieve theno net lossAichi’s objectives, conservationists apply mitigation hierarchy policies to avoid or reduce the impact and to offset biodiversity. The rationale of this review paper is to set the fundamentals for a multidisciplinary design framework tackling the issue of biodiversity loss in the urban environment bydesign for nature. The method focuses on the building/city/landscape scales and is enabled by emerging digital technologies, i.e., geographic information systems, building information modelling, ecological simulation and computational design.
Conducting Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Lei Lei , Liu Dilin
Published: August 2021

This Element provides a basic introduction to sentiment analysis, aimed at helping students and professionals in corpus linguistics to understand what sentiment analysis is, how it is conducted, and where it can be applied. It begins with a definition of sentiment analysis and a discussion of the domains where sentiment analysis is conducted and used the most. Then, it introduces two main methods that are commonly used in sentiment analysis known as “supervised machine-learning” and “unsupervised learning (or lexicon-based)” methods, followed by a step-by-step explanation about how to perform sentiment analysis with R. The Element then provides two detailed examples or cases of sentiment and emotion analysis, with one using an unsupervised method and the other using a supervised learning method.
Boxes and Books in Early Modern England
Authors: Razzall Lucy
Published: August 2021

In early modern England, boxes furnished minds as readily as they furnished rooms, shaping ideas about the challenges of interpretation, and negotiations of the book itself as text and material object. Engaging with recent work on material culture and the history of the book, Lucy Razzall weaves together close readings of texts and objects, from wills, plays, sermons and religious polemic, to chests, book-bindings, reliquaries and coffins. She demonstrates how the material and imaginative possibilities of the box were dynamically connected in post-Reformation England, structuring modes of thought. These early modern responses to materiality offer ways in which the discipline of book history might reframe its analysis of the material text. In tracing the early modern significance of the box as matter and metaphor, this book reveals the origins of some of the enduring habits of thought with which we still respond to people, texts and things.
ON THE INSTABILITY OF PERIODIC WAVES FOR DISPERSIVE EQUATIONS—REVISITED
Authors: NATALI FÁBIO , AMARAL SABRINA
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this paper is to present an extension of the results in [8]. We establish a more general proof for the moving kernel formula to prove the spectral stability of periodic traveling wave solutions for the regularized Benjamin–Bona–Mahony type equations. As applications of our analysis, we show the spectral instability for the quintic Benjamin–Bona–Mahony equation and the spectral (orbital) stability for the regularized Benjamin–Ono equation.
A month for the mission: using a sentinel approach to determine the transmission window of digenean cercariae in the subarctic White Sea
Authors: Nikolaev Kirill E. , Levakin Ivan A. , Galaktionov Kirill V.
Published: August 2021

In the digenean life cycle the cercaria ensures an important transmission stage, from the first intermediate host to the second or the definitive host. In regions with pronounced seasonality, this process occurs within a certain interval, the transmission window. In high latitudes, the size of transmission window has previously been determined only by comparing data on seasonal dynamics of infection level in various categories of hosts or extrapolating the results of laboratory experiments on cercarial biology to natural conditions. In this study, we evaluated the dynamics of infection of the second intermediate hosts (mussels Mytilus edulis) with cercariae of two digenean species, Himasthla elongata (Himasthlidae) and Cercaria parvicaudata (Renicolidae), at a littoral site at the White Sea by exposing cages with uninfected mussels during the warm season. This is the first such study in a subarctic sea. Mussel infection was observed from May to mid-September, but its intensity was the greatest only for approximately a month, from some moment after 10 July to mid-August, when water temperature was within the optimal range for cercarial emergence in both studied species (15‒20°C). During this time, the mussels accumulated 66.3 ± 6.2% metacercariae of H. elongata and 79.7 ± 5.3% metacercariae of C. parvicaudata out of the total number accumulated during the experimental period. We suggest that climate warming at high latitudes may prolong the period when the water temperatures are optimal for cercariae emergence, thereby intensifying digenean transmission in coastal ecosystems.