bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sinonasal Osteosarcoma: Report of 14 New Cases and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Low Christopher M. , Gruszczynski Nelson R. , Moore Eric J. , Price Daniel L. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Kasperbauer Jan L. , Van Abel Kathryn M. , Stokken Janalee K. , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Link Michael J. , Choby Garret
Published: January 2020

Objective The objective of this study is to describe the clinical presentation, tumor characteristics, natural history, and treatment patterns of sinonasal osteosarcoma.

Methods Fourteen patients who had been treated for osteosarcoma of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses at a tertiary care center were reviewed. In addition, a systematic review of the literature for osteosarcoma of the sinonasal cavity was performed.

Results In a systematic review, including 14 patients from the authors' institution, 53 total studies including 88 patients were assessed. Median follow-up was 18 months (interquartile range: 8–39 months). The most common presenting symptoms were facial mass or swelling (34%), and nasal obstruction (30%). The most common paranasal sinus involved by tumor was the maxillary sinus (64%), followed by the ethmoid sinuses (52%). The orbit (33%), dura (13%) and infratemporal fossa (10%) were the most common sites of local invasion. The majority of patients underwent surgery followed by adjuvant therapy (52.4%). Increasing age was associated with decreased overall survival rate (unit risk ratio [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 1.02 [1.003–1.043]; p = 0.0216) and T4 disease was associated with decreased disease-specific survival rate (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.87; p = 0.0495). The 2- and 5-year overall survival rates were 68 and 40%, respectively, while 2- and 5-year disease-specific survival rates were 71% and 44%, respectively.

Conclusion Sinonasal osteosarcomas are uncommon tumors and can pose a significant therapeutic challenge. Increasing age and T4 disease are associated with worse prognosis. This disease usually warrants consultation by a multidisciplinary team and consideration of multimodality therapy.
Relationship between Recurrence Rates of Rathke's Cleft Cysts and Surgical Approaches to Sellar Reconstruction
Authors: Limb Rebecca , King James
Published: January 2020

Objective The main purpose of this article is to address the question of whether reconstructing the sellar floor following Rathke's cleft cyst excision results in increased rates of recurrence.

Methods and Design A retrospective case series was compiled from medical records and radiological investigations at a single institution over a time period spanning 25 years. Episodes of cyst recurrence were determined from magnetic resonance imaging scans and outpatient encounters. Details regarding surgical procedure and techniques were obtained from operation notes. Perioperative morbidity was also recorded.

Results Twenty-three adult patients were treated surgically for a Rathke's cleft cyst at the study institution between 1992 and 2017. The overall cyst recurrence rate was 48%, with 39% of all patients requiring redo surgery within the timeframe of the study. The mean time to redo surgery for recurrence was 4 years. Cyst recurrence rates were 57% postmicroscopic procedures, and 26% postendoscopic procedures (p = 0.148). In the nonreconstructed group, the recurrence rate was 17%, and in the reconstructed group the recurrence rate was 41% (p = 0.3792). Complications arising after nonreconstructive procedures were delayed cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, pneumocephaly, and multiple episodes of meningitis. All these patients required return to theater for secondary reconstruction of the pituitary fossa floor.

Conclusion The results of this small study suggest that reconstruction of the sellar floor, and microscopic rather than endoscopic techniques, may be associated with a higher rate of Rathke's cleft cyst recurrence. However, these trends did not reach statistical significance. Patients undergoing nonreconstructive procedures may be more prone to certain postoperative complications.
Ictal Bradyarrhythmia in a 2-Year-Old Male with Brainstem Embryonal Tumor
Authors: Garris Jordan , Aungaroon Gewalin , Peariso Katrina
Published: January 2020

Ictal bradyarrhythmia can be challenging to diagnose when motor features of seizures are absent. Associated bradycardia can involve periods of asystole requiring cardiac pacemaker placement. Here, we report a 2-year-old male with a brainstem embryonal tumor with more than 30 seizures per day manifesting as bradycardia, loss of tone, and decreased responsiveness, followed by vomiting. Associated electrographic changes were localized to the right temporal head region, where the patient's tumor exerted mass effect. The patient was treated with lacosamide at higher doses than previously reported (24 mg/kg/d) and became seizure-free on a combination of this medication with clobazam. Oral albuterol was also used to augment his heart rate as the patient was not a candidate for cardiac pacemaker insertion.
Developmental changes in human fetal kidney
Authors: M. Jayasabarinathan , S. Vijayadevi
Published: January 2020

Aims and objectives : It is necessary to know the normal developmental Anatomy of the kidney to understand certain prenatal disorders like polysystic kidney, hydronephrosis and Wilm's tumour. A detailed description of histological development of kidney is scarce. Therefore the present study is an attempt to further the anatomical knowledge in histogenesis of kidney. Materials & Method : The study was carried out in the department of Anatomy, Mount Zion Medical College, Adoor, Kerala. 30 dead born fetuses (gestational age range from 11 weeks to 3 6 weeks) were utilized for the study. Tissue specimen from the kidneys were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and examined under light microscope. Results: Nephrogenic zone was identified up to 34 wks of gestation. Cortex was clearly distinguished from medulla at 14 th wk of fertilization. Different shapes [S & C] of glomeruli were identified in the second trimester. At 24 th wk, proximal convoluted tubule [PCT], distal convoluted tubule [DCT], collecting duct and thin and thick segment of loop of Henle were identified clearly. Conclusion: The pathological conditions of the kidney can be diagnosed at the earliest by understanding the normal histological development of the kidney at various stages. This study would be helpful for understanding the normal histological development of kidney.
A study of sexual dimorphism of human auricle by morphometry and topographical location
Authors: M. Maitreyee
Published: January 2020

Aims and objectives : Features of human body parts or organs or bones have been studied to identify differences in males and females. The present study was performed to assess gender differences in morphometric parameters of auricle of ear; and to see whether there exists any sexual dimorphism in positioning of auricle. Materials and Methods: Measurements were taken on 350 young individuals within the age group of 17-25 years by digital and spreading calipers and recorded in centimeters. The morphometric parameters were auricle length, auricle width, auricle root/attachment, projection of auricle, face height, face width, position of auricle from anterior midline, and position of auricle from posterior midline. The independent t-test was used to test the significance of difference between males and females. Results: The difference in the morphometric parameters showed statistical significance. The indices i.e. 'Position of auricle from posterior midline' [PEP] to face width [FW] index was statistically significant sex-wise, which was less in males than in females; while 'Position of auricle from anterior midline' [PEA] to 'Position of auricle from posterior midline' [PEP] index was also statistically significant sex-wise, which was more in males than in females. Conclusion: There was significant difference in measurements as well as position of auricle in males and females. The two indices related to the position of auricle from the midline may be of value in forensic identification and in fields like surgery, anthropometry, art, and ergonomics. Corresponding landmarks on dry skull may be used to estimate sex in skeleton.
Morphometric study of human fibular incisura in dry bones
Authors: G. Sreedevi , Sangam Muralidhar Reddy
Published: January 2020

Aims & Objectives : Interosseous border of tibia splits distally into anterior and posterior edges. These edges project into anterior and posterior tubercles enclosing a notch called fibular incisura that articulates with the distal fibula forming distal tibio fibular syndesmosis. The aim of the present study was to obtain the morphometric data of fibular incisura that may be helpful for the orthopedic surgeons in ankle reconstructive surgeries and ankle joint replacement. Materials & Method: To describe the morphometry of the fibular incisura, a total of 100 tibia [right 55 and left 45] were obtained from the Department of Anatomy, NRI Medical College, Chinakakani. The width of tibia, width, depth, height of fibular incisura and the length of anterior, posterior incisural tubercles were measured in both right and left tibia using digital vernier calipers. Right and left side para meters were compared using Karl Pearson Coefficient [r value]. Results: Average values for the width, depth and height of the fibular incisura were 16.83mm on the right side and 17.42mm on the left side, 2.85±1.38mm on the right and 2.9±1.57mm on the left side, 38.82±5.8mm on the right side and 38.72±7.68 mm on the left side respectively. While average lengths of anterior and posterior tubercles of the fibular incisura were 13.19±1.96mm, 15.71±2.03mm on the right side and 12.6±1.49mm, 15.66±1.41mm on left side. Thirty-three tibia presented deeply concave [depth>4cm], and sixty-seven had shallow fibular incisura [depth<4cm]. Conclusion: The morphometry and anatomical variability of fibular incisura should be taken to account in assessing radiographs, CT and MRI of talocrural joint.
Modified Team Based Learning: Its feasibility and effectiveness in learning Gross Anatomy
Authors: G. Vinitha , M. Lakshmidevi , Ranganath Priya
Published: January 2020

Aims and Objectives: Knowledge of human anatomy with clear understanding of its clinical applications is important for producing good quality medical graduates. With many newer student centered teaching techniques coming up modified team based learning has been analyzed in this study. Aims: To know 1] Feasibility and utility of modified team based learning [MTBL] in gross anatomy with clinical aspects. 2] Effectiveness of MTBL in understanding gross anatomy and students approach to MTBL. Material and methods: Two traditional gross anatomy lectures were replaced by two MTBL sessions. 250 first year medical students were randomly grouped into 35 teams with 7 students each. During each session, students went through the steps of MTBL - pre class preparation, individual readiness assurance test [IRAT], group readiness assurance test [GRAT] and application exercise. A five point Likert scale questionnaire was given to students to assess their opinion about MTBL activities. After 15 days, a surprise test [ST] was given to assess effectiveness of MTBL sessions. Results: A significant positive correlation was observed between individual student's performance on IRAT and ST, between individual performances from session-1 to session-2, as well as in group performances in first and second session. 57% students strongly agreed that their performance improved working as a team than individually and increased students' ability to use their critical and analytical skills. Conclusion: This study shows that MTBL is feasible and approachable to students. MTBL acts as an important tool in medical education as it has the ability to develop self-learning, higher reasoning skills and team work skills.
Are the first year medicos empathetic?
Authors: Antony Anly , Francis Anu , Kotturan Aaron David , Bhagyam V.
Published: January 2020

Background: Empathy is an essentiality among the medical fraternity. Literature indicates better competency, patient compliance and clinical outcomes in relation to higher levels of empathy. Gender differences in empathy level are universal and various factors influence it. So it's quintessential to understand empathy and its correlates among medicos in India. Aims: To evaluate changes in empathy levels of the M.B.B.S students of a renowned medical college in India, during their course in the first year. Materials and methods: A prospective study was carried out among hundred 1st year medical students [M=34, F= 66] enrolled at a medical college in Kerala during
the academic year 2014 - 2015. Participants completed the Jefferson Scale of Empathy [Student Version].
Results: The mean empathy at the entry & exit points of the study stood at 112 ± 11.39 & 112.07 ± 13.98
respectively. Comparing the male & female population, the females had higher empathy levels. When comparing
the empathy levels at the entry & exit points of the male population, significant decline [p value= 0.001] was
seen. The female population showed a significant increase [p value= 0.001] in their empathy levels over the
same period. Conclusion: There were significant changes in empathy levels of the male & female population,
though discernable changes in the whole population were not evident. This study necessitates further follow up
of the present students, to analyze the changes occurring over the entire period of medical school.
Sirenomelia - Revisited
Authors: Lakshmi Gaddam Vijaya , Abraham Jacob , Benjamin Geena
Published: January 2020

Sirenomelia, commonly known as mermaid syndrome is a rare congenital condition, featured by fusion of the lower limbs. This represents the most severe form of caudal regression syndrome, in which all the structures from the caudal mesoderm fail to develop properly. There is a marked deformity in the musculoskeletal system at the caudal end of the trunk and lower limbs. It is invariably associated with visceral malformations of the urogenital and gastrointestinal systems like agenesis or hypoplasia of renal tissue, blind termination of the colon, absent external genitalia and imperforate anus. It is usually associated with single umbilical artery. Though association with maternal diabetes has been described, the causative mechanisms remain unclear. The condition is generally fatal, due to associated developmental anomalies ofkidneys and other viscera.
Correlation of histology of placenta with fetal outcome in pregnancy induced hypertension
Authors: Keche Harsha A. , Kazi Shahin
Published: January 2020

Background and aim : Placenta is a mirror of gestational life. It is a vital organ of maintenance of pregnancy. Pregnancy induced hypertension [PIH] is a major cause of maternal & fetal mortality in the developing countries. The aim of present study is to study histological changes ofPIH placenta and to correlate it with foetal outcome. Material and methods : The present study was carried out on 50 normal and 50 PIH placentae. Histological assessment of placentae was done. The histological findings were correlated with fetal outcome. The results were analysed statistically by using z-test and SPSS 17.0. Results : Incidence ofPIH was more in primigravida. Preterm babies, small for gestational age [SGA] babies and perinatal loss was more in PIH. Histological findings like syncytial knots, cytotrophoblastic cellular proliferation, fibrinoid necrosis, villous fibrosis, basement membrane thickening, infarction and calcification when increase in severity fetal outcome [low birth weight babies, low apgar score babies, perinatal loss was more adverse]. Comparison between histological findings of control and PIH group was found statistically significant. Conclusion : PIH affects the placenta which adversely affects the fetal outcome like weight, apgar score and perinatal loss.
Morphometric analysis of hard palate and its clinical importance
Authors: Gujar Subhash M , Oza Sunil G
Published: January 2020

Background & aim: The study ofhard palate is important because of its role in speech articulation. The aim of the present study was to determine the palatine length, breadth and position of greater palatine foramen[GPF]. Material and Method : 50 dried, unsexed skulls from C U Shah Medical College, Surendranagar were studied. Palatine length, breadth & distance of Greater palatine foramen[GPF] to middle maxillary sutures[MMS] were measured with help of vernier caliper. Result : Mean palatine length and breadth were 47.10±3.34mm & 36.26±2.55mm respectively. The distance ofGPF from MMS was 16.55 mm & 16.57 mm on right and left side respectively. The palatine index showed that 68% of the skulls had narrow [Leptostaphyline ], 20% intermediate [Mesostaphyline] & 12% wide [Brachystaphyline] palates. Conclusions : These observations would be helpful for anatomists, anthropologists and also to surgeons for various surgical procedures on hard and soft palates.
The third osseous ambiguous tubercle-A study on Indian population
Authors: R. Sudha , P. Sasikala
Published: January 2020

Background & Aim: Bony prominences on the medial side of the lower end of femur include the adductor tubercle and the medial epicondyle. A third osseous ambiguous tubercle or the Gastrocnemius tubercle is often noted about which there is not much mention in standard textbooks of Anatomy. This tubercle gives attachment to the medial head of gastrocnemius muscle. Its clinical relevance cannot be under estimated particularly in cases of treatment of rupture of medial head of gastrocnemius [Tennis leg] and while raising of Gastrocnemius flaps. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in150 dry femora and in 10 dissected knee joints [Total femora 160 : 150 dry bones+ 10 cadaveric femora] gross specimens. The presence of gastrocnemius tubercle, supracondylar tubercle, the distances between gastrocnemius tubercle and adductor tubercle, medial epicondyle and condylar margin were measured. Results: The incidence of gastrocnemius tubercle was 55% and was predominantly noted on the right side [63%]. The average distance between the gastrocnemius tubercle and the adductor tubercle was 6 mm, and the average distance between the gastrocnemius tubercle and medial epicondyle was 15 mm. The incidence ofsupracondylartubercle was 71% and in 95% of the bones it was noted above the medial condylar margin. Conclusion: The awareness of the presence of gastrocnemius tubercle and supracondylar bony prominences in the medial side of lower end of femur will be of much use to the Orthopaedic surgeons and Plastic surgeons
Morphometry of talar trochlear surface and its correlation
Authors: Narayanan Suresh , Phalgunan Vljisha , Shankar Nachiket
Published: January 2020

Background and objectives: The morphometry of talus represents its biomechanical role in transmission of body weight. The objective of the study was to find the shape of trochlea and its correlation with other articular surfaces. Methodology: A total of 160 dry Tali of unknown sex were utilised for this study, its trochlear surface length-anterior, middle and posterior breadth [TSL, TSAB, TSMB and TSPB], calcaneal surface length & breadth [CSL and CSB] and navicular surface length & breadth [NSL and NSB] were measured using digital vernier caliper. Trochlear surface angle [TSA] and depth angle [DA] were calculated using image J software. The mean and standard deviation of the parameters were calculated. Side differences between the parameters were calculated by independent sample t test and the strength of association between the parameters was calculated by Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: The results were trochlear surface length, anterior, middle and posterior breadth [29.6 ± 2.7, 31 ± 2.5, 28.2 ± 2.6 and21.4± 2.1mm], navicular surface length & breadth [29.7 ± 2.5 & 20.5 ± 1.7mm] and calcaneal surface length & breadth [30 ± 2.4 &19.8 ± 1.6mm]. The mean trochlear surface and depth angle were 9.7 ± 3.3 and 156 ± 5.1 degrees. There was significant correlation between the parameters of the articular surfaces. Conclusion: The present study helps in understanding the morphology of talus and the role of articular surfaces in load transmission.
A radiological study of anatomical variants of hallux sesamoids
Authors: Adibatti Mallikarjun , Pitchandi Muthiah , V. Bhuvaneswari
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims: Hallux sesamoid bones forms an integral part of the first metatarsophalangeal joint for stability during weight bearing. Hallux sesamoids are paired bones located on the plantar aspect of the first metatarsal head within the flexor hallucis longus tendon. Hallucal sesamoids vary in shape and size; can be single, double, bipartite and multipartite. Traumatic insult to the hallux sesamoids can lead to fracture & dislocation, while majority of symptomatic hallux sesamoids can be treated non-surgically; certain specific injuries require a high index of suspicion, careful management, and surgical intervention. Hence present study was taken up to know the incidence, presence/absence, number and partition of hallux sesamoid to enlighten the surgeons and radiologists in early diagnosis and treatment of cases presenting with history of trauma, pain and fractures of foot. Methods: Retrospective radiographic study on the incidence, anatomical variants & distribution ofhallux sesamoids inlOOO radiographs ofthe foot. Result: Hallux Sesamoid bones were seen plantar to first metatarsal head in 994 radiographs [99.4%], while the absence ofHallucal sesamoids were noted in 6 radiographs [0.6%], Single Hallucal sesamoid were noted in 9 radiographs [0.9%], medial bipartition was noted in 20 radiographs [2%], lateral bipartition was noted in 15 radiographs [1.5%]. Conclusion: Knowledge regarding hallux sesamoids helps us in differentiating the various conditions arising out of fractures of foot bones with overlapping signs and symptoms, from actual involvement of sesamoid bone itself, which assists in the early diagnosis and management of foot pathologies.
Estimation of gestational age using fetal liver morphometry
Authors: D. Agnihotri , SL Jethani , A. Dubey , D. Singh
Published: January 2020

Background and Aim: The liver is a large organ in the body. Its various parameters can be utilized in determining the gestational age of the fetus and also in diagnosing pathologies affecting liver growth. The aim is to measure the various liver parameters in non deformed fetuses and to develop regression equations between the liver parameters and the gestational age. Materials and methods: The study was done on 30 aborted fetuses with varying gestational age from 13 to 32 weeks. Fetuses with any gross abnormalities were excluded. The crown rump length was measured for all. Dissection was done and the livers were removed weighed, length of right border, length of the border, width of superior surface, distance of porta hepatis to the right and left border were recorded using manual vernier caliper. Result: The various parameters of the liver showed a strong correlation with the CRL and hence the gestational age. Conclusion: The determination of the gestational age of the fetus using the correlation between the crown rump length and the liver morphometry can be done accurately.
Case of peroneus digiti quinti muscle
Authors: Teli Chandrika G. , Kadlimattix H S
Published: January 2020

Lateral compartment muscles of the leg have shown variations like peroneus accessorius, peroneus quartus or peroneus digiti quinti with varied incidences and varied insertions. Here we report a case of peroneus digiti quinti which arose from peroneus brevis tendon and sheath covering it. The small belly moved forwards, diverting from peroneus brevis, midway between peroneus brevis and peroneus tertius, finally inserting on the dorsal digital expansion of fifth toe. Length of muscle belly and tendon were 2.01 cm and 6.5 cm respectively. It was also observed that when traction was applied to peroneus brevis, partial extension of the fifth toe was seen, suggesting functional need to evert and extend the little toe simultaneously.
An early chick embryo as learning model for study of embryology
Authors: Mishrikoti Harsh P , Kulkarni Umesh К
Published: January 2020

Background: In medical education, learning happens by variety of perceptions. In basic science Anatomy, visualization of real structures gives rich learning experience. This type seems deficient in human embryology, that too in the early phases. Aim: With the basic concept of'ontogeny repeats phylogeny', for the enrichment of learning early embryology, chick embryos have been used. Materials and methods: 30 commercially available chicken eggs and 30 Gallus domesticus [country chicken] eggs collected from nearby villages were hatched for embryos to whole mount, fix and stain. Results: Successful hatching rates were more in favour of Gallus domesticus eggs [76%] compared to others [26%] Conclusion: This experiment guides the easiest and simplest possible ways to successfully establish the learning module for early embryology in departmental setup using Gallus domesticus eggs. Observation of brain swellings, heart swelling optic vesicle, nasal pit, pharyngeal clefts, neural tube, somites and limb buds, vitelline vessels provide valuable learning experience by direct interaction with the real environment. This bridges the gap of seeing what is not usually observed and strengthens educational embryology
A study on pulmonary venous ostia pattern in the left atrium and its clinical applications
Authors: S. Rajesh , S. Vijaya Kumar , V. Manikanda Reddy
Published: January 2020

Background & aims : Normally four pulmonary veins open into the left atrium. Frequently there are variations in the number of pulmonary veins opening in to the left atrium. Ectopic beats in atrial fibrillation commonly originates from the ostia of the pulmonary veins. The treatment of atrial fibrillation is by radio frequency ablation of the focus of origin and hence the knowledge of anatomical variation of pulmonary veins is necessary to find the ectopic focus in the origin of atrial fibrillation. Materials and Method : In this study the variation of pulmonary venous ostia pattern in the left atrium was studied in 80 formalin fixed adult cadaveric hearts. Results and Conclusion : 63 hearts showed no variation in the pulmonary venous ostia pattem which accounts for 78.75%, rest of the 17 hearts showed variation in the pulmonary venous ostia which accounts for 21.25%, the variation in the number of pulmonary veins was slightly higher for the left side [11.25%] when compared to the right sided variation [ 10%], the number of hearts which showed bilateral variation was noted in 2 hearts - both showed a single pulmonary vein opening on either side which accounts for 2.5%
Correlation ‘K’ of foot length with crown rump length in fetuses : an anthropometric study from Kumaun region
Authors: Jaiswal Anamika , Kaushik Ankit , Singh A К
Published: January 2020

Background and aims : Estimation of gestational age [GA] is of prime importance for favorable pregnancy outcome. Foot length is an important and under utilized marker of GA estimation. In this anthropometric study, the foot length of right and left foot was measured and correlated with crown rump length [CRL] to find out whether foot length shows correlation with CRL and act as a reliable marker for assessment of GA. Materials and method: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College Haldwani, Uttarakhand, India. The material used for this study was 72 fetuses of different GA. The foot length of right and left foot was measured from the posterior most point of the heel of the feet to the second toe. The length of the feet was compared with CRL. The correlation and association of length of both feet with CRL was done. Observation: The right and left foot length increased with increase in the CRL. The mean foot length of right and left foot was found to be almost equal with a mean of 5.3 cm for both feet. Pearson correlation coefficient of both sides foot length and CRL showed strong positive correlation with a statistically significant association. Conclusionrin this study on 72 fetuses, both foot length was found to have a strong correlation with CRL. Foot length can act as an adjunct for estimation of GA. Foot length can differentiate between preterm and term baby. Foot length measurement is also useful in medicolegal purposes
Investigating the interface characteristics of high-k ZrO2/SiO2 stacked gate insulator grown by plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition for improving the performance of InSnZnO thin film transistors
Authors: Choi Wan-Ho , Kim MinJung , Jeon Woojin , Park Jin-Seong
Published: January 2020

High-dielectric constant (k) materials have attracted a lot of attention for use as gate insulators (GIs) that enable low-voltage operation of thin film transistors (TFTs). However, high-k GIs also induce severe degradation in TFT characteristics, such as effective mobility (μeff). Therefore, in this study, a stacked GI structure of ZrO2 and SiO2 was investigated. The mechanism by which the properties of the high-k GI influence TFT operating characteristics was revealed. Based on this mechanism, an optimized stacked GI structure that exhibited a low subthreshold swing and high μeff was found and used to achieve low-voltage operation in a TFT device.
Coarse-scale PDEs from fine-scale observations via machine learning
Authors: Lee Seungjoon , Kooshkbaghi Mahdi , Spiliotis Konstantinos , Siettos Constantinos I. , Kevrekidis Ioannis G.
Published: January 2020

Complex spatiotemporal dynamics of physicochemical processes are often modeled at a microscopic level (through, e.g., atomistic, agent-based, or lattice models) based on first principles. Some of these processes can also be successfully modeled at the macroscopic level using, e.g., partial differential equations (PDEs) describing the evolution of the right few macroscopic observables (e.g., concentration and momentum fields). Deriving good macroscopic descriptions (the so-called “closure problem”) is often a time-consuming process requiring deep understanding/intuition about the system of interest. Recent developments in data science provide alternative ways to effectively extract/learn accurate macroscopic descriptions approximating the underlying microscopic observations. In this paper, we introduce a data-driven framework for the identification of unavailable coarse-scale PDEs from microscopic observations via machine-learning algorithms. Specifically, using Gaussian processes, artificial neural networks, and/or diffusion maps, the proposed framework uncovers the relation between the relevant macroscopic space fields and their time evolution (the right-hand side of the explicitly unavailable macroscopic PDE). Interestingly, several choices equally representative of the data can be discovered. The framework will be illustrated through the data-driven discovery of macroscopic, concentration-level PDEs resulting from a fine-scale, lattice Boltzmann level model of a reaction/transport process. Once the coarse evolution law is identified, it can be simulated to produce long-term macroscopic predictions. Different features (pros as well as cons) of alternative machine-learning algorithms for performing this task (Gaussian processes and artificial neural networks) are presented and discussed.
ARABIDOPSIS DEHISCENCE ZONE POLYGALACTURONASE 1 (ADPG1) releases latent defense signals in stems with reduced lignin content
Authors: Gallego-Giraldo Lina , Liu Chang , Pose-Albacete Sara , Pattathil Sivakumar , Peralta Angelo Gabriel , Young Jenna , Westpheling Jan , Hahn Michael G. , Rao Xiaolan , Knox J. Paul , De Meester Barbara , Boerjan Wout , Dixon Richard A.
Published: January 2020

There is considerable interest in engineering plant cell wall components, particularly lignin, to improve forage quality and biomass properties for processing to fuels and bioproducts. However, modifying lignin content and/or composition in transgenic plants through down-regulation of lignin biosynthetic enzymes can induce expression of defense response genes in the absence of biotic or abiotic stress.
Arabidopsis thaliana
lines with altered lignin through down-regulation of hydroxycinnamoyl CoA:shikimate/quinate hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (HCT) or loss of function of cinnamoyl CoA reductase 1 (CCR1) express a suite of pathogenesis-related (PR) protein genes. The plants also exhibit extensive cell wall remodeling associated with induction of multiple cell wall-degrading enzymes, a process which renders the corresponding biomass a substrate for growth of the cellulolytic thermophile
Caldicellulosiruptor bescii
lacking a functional pectinase gene cluster. The cell wall remodeling also results in the release of size- and charge-heterogeneous pectic oligosaccharide elicitors of
PR
gene expression. Genetic analysis shows that both
in planta PR
gene expression and release of elicitors are the result of ectopic expression in xylem of the gene ARABIDOPSIS DEHISCENCE ZONE POLYGALACTURONASE 1 (ADPG1), which is normally expressed during anther and silique dehiscence. These data highlight the importance of pectin in cell wall integrity and the value of lignin modification as a tool to interrogate the informational content of plant cell walls.
The biblical roots of English ‘love’
Authors: Wierzbicka Anna
Published: January 2020

Seen from a broad cross-linguistic perspective, the English verb(to) loveis quite unusual because it has very broad scope: it can apply to a mother’s love, a husband’s love, a sister’s love, etc. without any restrictions whatsoever; and the same applies to its counterparts in many other European languages. Trying to locate the origins of this phenomenon, I have looked to the Bible. Within the Bible, I have found both continuity and innovation. In the Hebrew Bible, the verb ’āhēb, rendered in the Greek translation of the Old Testament known as the Septuagint with the verbagapao, implies a “preferential love”, e.g. it is used for a favourite wife of a favourite son. In the New Testament, the concept of ‘love’ loses the “preferential” components and thus becomes applicable across the board: between anybody and anybody else.

The paper argues that the very broad meaning of verbs likelovein English,aimerin French,liebenin German, etc. reflects a shared conceptual heritage of many European languages, with its roots in the New Testament; and it shows that by taking a semantic perspective on these historical developments, and exploring them through the rigorous framework of NSM and Minimal English, we can arrive at clear and verifiable hypotheses about a theme which is of great general interest, regardless of one’s own religious and philosophical views and commitments.
Integrative social robotics, value-driven design, and transdisciplinarity
Authors: Seibt Johanna , Flensborg Damholdt Malene , Vestergaard Christina
Published: January 2020

“Integrative Social Robotics” (ISR) is a new approach or general method for generating social robotics applications in a responsible and “culturally sustainable” fashion. Currently social robotics is caught in a basic difficulty we call the “triple gridlock of description, evaluation, and regulation”. We briefly recapitulate this problem and then present the core ideas of ISR in the form of five principles that should guide the development of applications in social robotics. Characteristic of ISR is to intertwine a mixed method approach (i.e., conducting experimental, quantitative, qualitative, and phenomenological research for the same envisaged application) with conceptual and axiological analysis as required in professional studies in applied ethics; moreover, ISR is value-drivenand abides by the “Non-Replacement Principle”:Social robots may only do what humans should but cannot do. We briefly compare ISR to other value-sensitive or value-directed design models, with a view to the task of overcoming the triple gridlock. Finally, working from an advanced classification of pluridiscplinary research, we argue that ISR establishes a research format that can turn social robotics into a new transdiscipline.
Rhetorical imaginings and multimodal arguments at the European Green Belt
Authors: Allison Marcia , Bloomfield Emma Frances
Published: January 2020

We analyze the visual, verbal, and material arguments present at the European Green Belt (EGB), a contemporary conservation project built from the former Iron Curtain. The EGB presents itself as a “living memorial” that fuses together former warring countries and thus makes an argument for the unity of Europe. To analyze this incredibly diverse and rhetorically significant project, we put the digital representations of the site and the discourse around the EGB into conversation with situated, rhetorical criticism performed along the EGB site itself. We analyze the EGB’s different argumentative juxtapositions regarding history and memory, nonhuman nature and technology, peace and war, memorial and tourism, and preservation and restoration. Overall, we find that the transformation of the Iron Curtain from divisive border into a European-wide, transboundary biodiversity conservation project uses transcendence as a key argumentative structure, which has implications for how we understand the human relationship with the environment, history, and memory
Influence of Y and Zr on TiAl43Nb4Mo1B0.1 titanium aluminide microstructure and properties
Authors: Bazhenov V. E. , Kuprienko V. S. , Fadeev A. V. , Bazlov A. I. , Belov V. D. , Titov A. Yu. , Koltygin A. V. , Komissarov A. A. , Plisetskaya I. V. , Logachev I. A.
Published: January 2020

The influence of the addition of 2.3 at.-% Y and of 0.8 at.-% Zr + 0.2 at.-% Y on the properties of TiAl43Nb4Mo1B0.1 (TNM-B1) titanium aluminide alloy is investigated. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis shows that the Y content of the β, γ, and α2 phases is low, and nearly all of the Y is in the Al2Y phase. The Zr content in the alloy phases is the same as that in alloy. Tensile tests show that Y addition decreases tensile strength and elongation, but only minor effects on these properties are observed after the addition of Zr and Y. It is shown that the addition of Y leads to a decrease in the heat resistance of TiAl43Nb4Mo1B0.1 alloy at 900°C.
Extracellular microRNAs in blood differentiate between ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke subtypes
Authors: Kalani M. Yashar S. , Alsop Eric , Meechoovet Bessie , Beecroft Taylor , Agrawal Komal , Whitsett Timothy G. , Huentelman Matthew J. , Spetzler Robert F. , Nakaji Peter , Kim Seungchan , Van Keuren‐Jensen Kendall
Published: January 2020

Rapid identification of patients suffering from cerebral ischaemia, while excluding intracerebral haemorrhage, can assist with patient triage and expand patient access to chemical and mechanical revascularization. We sought to identify blood‐based, extracellular microRNAs 15 (ex‐miRNAs) derived from extracellular vesicles associated with major stroke subtypes using clinical samples from subjects with spontaneous intraparenchymal haemorrhage (IPH), aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) and ischaemic stroke due to cerebral vessel occlusion. We collected blood from patients presenting with IPH (n = 19), SAH (n = 17) and ischaemic stroke (n = 21). We isolated extracellular vesicles from plasma, extracted RNA cargo, 20 sequenced the small RNAs and performed bioinformatic analyses to identify ex‐miRNA biomarkers predictive of the stroke subtypes. Sixty‐seven miRNAs were significantly variant across the stroke subtypes. A subset of exmiRNAs differed between haemorrhagic and ischaemic strokes, and LASSO analysis could distinguish SAH from the other subtypes with an accuracy of 0.972 ± 0.002. Further analyses predicted 25 miRNA classifiers that stratify IPH from ischaemic stroke with an accuracy of 0.811 ± 0.004 and distinguish haemorrhagic from ischaemic stroke with an accuracy of 0.813 ± 0.003. Blood‐based, ex‐miRNAs have predictive value, and could be capable of distinguishing between major stroke subtypes with refinement and validation. Such a biomarker could one day aid in the triage of patients to expand the pool eligible for effective treatment.
Multiple actin networks coordinate mechanotransduction at the immunological synapse
Authors: Blumenthal Daniel , Burkhardt Janis K.
Published: January 2020

Activation of naive T cells by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) is an essential step in mounting an adaptive immune response. It is known that antigen recognition and T cell receptor (TCR) signaling depend on forces applied by the T cell actin cytoskeleton, but until recently, the underlying mechanisms have been poorly defined. Here, we review recent advances in the field, which show that specific actin-dependent structures contribute to the process in distinct ways. In essence, T cell priming involves a tug-of-war between the cytoskeletons of the T cell and the APC, where the actin cytoskeleton serves as a mechanical intermediate that integrates force-dependent signals. We consider each of the relevant actin-rich T cell structures separately and address how they work together at the topologically and temporally complex cell–cell interface. In addition, we address how this mechanobiology can be incorporated into canonical immunological models to improve how these models explain T cell sensitivity and antigenic specificity.
Wheat germ agglutinin–conjugated fluorescent pH sensors for visualizing proton fluxes
Authors: Zhang Lejie , Zhang Mei , Bellve Karl , Fogarty Kevin E. , Castro Maite A. , Brauchi Sebastian , Kobertz William R.
Published: January 2020

Small-molecule fluorescent wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) conjugates are routinely used to demarcate mammalian plasma membranes, because they bind to the cell’s glycocalyx. Here, we describe the derivatization of WGA with a pH-sensitive rhodamine fluorophore (pHRho; pKa = 7) to detect proton channel fluxes and extracellular proton accumulation and depletion from primary cells. We found that WGA-pHRho labeling was uniform and did not appreciably alter the voltage gating of glycosylated ion channels, and the extracellular changes in pH correlated with proton channel activity. Using single-plane illumination techniques, WGA-pHRho was used to detect spatiotemporal differences in proton accumulation and depletion over the extracellular surface of cardiomyocytes, astrocytes, and neurons. Because WGA can be derivatized with any small-molecule fluorescent ion sensor, WGA conjugates should prove useful to visualize most electrogenic and nonelectrogenic events on the extracellular side of the plasma membrane.
First, second, third and fourth flow harmonics of deuterons and protons in Au+Au reactions at 1.23 AGeV
Authors: Hillmann Paula , Steinheimer Jan , Reichert Tom , Gaebel Vincent , Bleicher Marcus , Sombun Sukanya , Herold Christoph , Limphirat Ayut
Published: January 2020

We explore the directed, elliptic, triangular and quadrangular flow of deuterons in Au+Au reactions at a beam energy of 1.23 AGeV within the UrQMD approach. These investigations are of direct relevance for the HADES experiment at GSI that has recently presented first data on the flow of light clusters in Au+Au collisions at 1.23 AGeV. To address the deuteron flow, UrQMD has been extended to include deuteron formation by coalescence. We find that this ansatz provides a very good description of the measured deuteron flow data, if a hard equation of state is used for the simulation. In addition we show that light cluster formation has a sizable impact on the proton flow and has to be taken into account to obtain reliable results in the forward/backward region. Based on the observed scaling of the flow, which is a natural result of coalescence, we conclude that deuteron production at GSI energies is a final state recombination effect. Finally, we also discuss the scaling relations of the higher order flow components up to v
4. We show that v
3 ∼ v
1
v
2 and

v

4

∼

v

2

2

as function of transverse momentum and that the integrated

v

2

2

∼

v

4

over the investigated energy range from E
lab = 0.1 AGeV to 40 AGeV.
Atom-by-atom construction of attractors in a tunable finite size spin array
Authors: Kolmus A , Katsnelson M I , Khajetoorians A A , Kappen H J
Published: January 2020

We demonstrate that a two-dimensional finite and periodic array of Ising spins coupled via RKKY-like exchange can exhibit tunable magnetic states ranging across three distinct magnetic regimes: (1) a conventional ferromagnetic regime, (2) a glass-like regime, and (3) a new multi-well regime. These magnetic regimes can be tuned by one gate-like parameter, namely the ratio between the lattice constant and the oscillating interaction wavelength. We characterize the various magnetic regimes, quantifying the distribution of low energy states, aging relaxation dynamics, and scaling behavior. The glassy and multi-well behavior results from the competing character of the oscillating long-range exchange interactions with respect to the lattice. The multi-well structure features multiple attractors, each with a sizable basin of attraction. This may open the possible application of such atomic arrays as associative memories.
Mitigation of traffic pollution emissions in the built environment: a real-time flow actuated tool for on ramp management
Authors: Mitkas Danae - Zoe , Politis Ioannis
Published: January 2020

Highways are increasingly common in today’s built environment and contribute majorly in environmental pollution. Mitigation strategies have been developed to decrease the traffic volume but have not been as effective, since the need for car use in transportation keeps growing. The key is to create an efficient road network which will allow the same traffic volume to flow through, with a reduced environmental impact. The main goals of this paper include the investigation and evaluation of alternative ramp metering scenarios on a freeway on-ramp and the development of a “smart” signal controller, with the use of PTV Vissim microsimulation software. A specific area was selected for the implementation of this study. More precisely, interchange K8 on the Ring road of Thessaloniki was chosen, in which, measurements of traffic volume were taken using a drone to record the traffic. Using the Vissim platform, a software model was created and evaluated to determine its accuracy compared to the existing situation. Different scenarios were developed, and the function of the interchange was observed, as well as the percentage of emissions. In the first set of scenarios, the traffic volume was increased by certain percentage and the results were collected and examined. Next, two new scenarios with the use of ramp metering were developed and a traffic signal was placed on the on-ramp. In the first of these two scenarios, a traffic signal light with a fixed-time traffic program was placed, whereas in the second one, a vehicle-actuated signal light was created, with the use of the VisVAP add-on. A flow chart was generated and used to program the signal light, so that each time high traffic volume was detected by the detectors that were placed in the expressway, the red light was activated. After all the scenarios were created and examined, certain KPI’s regarding CO, NOx and VOC emissions and fuel consumption, as well as other traffic related data, were collected and used for the overall evaluation. The results from the use of the ramp meter, either the fixed-time or the vehicle-actuated, showed that a ramp meter can be very useful in the improvement of the traffic conditions and may have a positive environmental impact, by reducing emissions even up to 70%.