bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On thermal correlators and bosonization duality in Chern-Simons theories with massive fundamental matter
Authors: Mishra Amiya
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We consider Chern-Simons theory coupled to massive fundamental matter in three spacetime dimensions at finite temperature, in the large N limit. We compute several thermal correlators in this theory for both fermionic and bosonic matter separately. The results are computed in the large N ’t Hooft limit but for arbitrary values of the ’t Hooft coupling. Furthermore, we generalize the computations of the four-point function of fundamental scalars in the bosonic theory to finite temperature. As a consistency check, we see that the results obtained here agree with the existing previous results in different limiting cases. Moreover, we check that the results are consistent with the conjectured bosonization duality, providing an additional evidence of it.
Mechanical clinching and self-pierce riveting for sheet combination of 780-MPa high-strength steel and aluminium alloy A5052 sheets and durability on salt spray test of joints
Authors: Abe Yohei , Mori Ken-ichiro
Published: January 2021

To increase the usage of high-strength steel and aluminium alloy sheets for lightweight automobile body panels, the joinability of sheet combinations including a 780-MPa high-strength steel and an aluminium alloy A5052 sheets by mechanical clinching and self-pierce riveting was investigated for different tool shapes in an experiment. All the sheet combinations except for the two steel sheets by self-pierce riveting, i.e., the two steel sheets, the two aluminium alloy sheets, and the steel-aluminium alloy sheets, were successfully joined by both the joining methods without the gaps among the rivet and the sheets. Then, to show the durability of the joined sheets, the corrosion behaviour and the joint strength of the aged sheets by a salt spray test were measured. The corrosion and the load reduction of the clinched and the riveted two aluminium alloy sheets were little. The corrosion of the clinched two steel sheets without the galvanized layer progressed, and then the load after 1176 h decreased by 85%. In the clinched two galvanized steel sheets, the corrosion progress slowed down by 24%. In the clinched steel and aluminium alloy sheets, the thickness reduction occurred near the minimum thickness of the upper sheet and in the upper surface on the edge of the lower aluminium alloy sheet, whereas the top surface of the upper sheet and the upper surface of the lower sheet were mainly corroded in the riveted joint. The load reduction was caused by the two thickness reductions, i.e., the reduction in the minimum thickness of the upper sheet and the reduction in the flange of the aluminium alloy sheet. Although the load of the clinched steel without the galvanized coating layer and aluminium alloy sheets decreased by about 20%, the use of the galvanized steel sheet brought the decrease by about 11%. It was found that the use of the galvanized steel sheets is effective for the decrease of strength reduction due to corrosion.
Factors Associated with Unexpected Readmission Following Lung Resection
Authors: Uchida Shinsuke , Yoshida Yukihiro , Yotsukura Masaya , Nakagawa Kazuo , Watanabe Shun‐ichi
Published: January 2021

Background

Identification of the predictors of readmission can facilitate appropriate perioperative management. The current study aimed to investigate the potential predictors of unexpected readmission after lung resection for primary lung cancers.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled 1000 patients who underwent pulmonary resection for lung cancer at our institution between January 2016 and December 2017. Unexpected readmission was defined as unscheduled readmission to our hospital within 30 days after discharge. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for identification of perioperative factors associated with readmission.

Results

Forty‐three patients (4.3%) required unexpected readmission, and the median interval between the day of discharge and readmission was 10 days (range 1–29 days). The reasons for readmission included empyema and pleural effusion (n = 11), acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (n = 7), pneumothorax (n = 7), and others (n = 18). The median hospitalization length after readmission was 14 days (range 2–90 days). Four patients (9.3%) died in the hospital because of acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis after readmission. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, postoperative refractory air leakage, defined as prolonged air leakage lasting > 5 days or requiring reoperation, was identified as a significant predictor associated with an increased risk of readmission (odds ratio 2.87; 95% confidence interval 1.22–6.72; p = 0.015).

Conclusions

Unexpected readmission was an inevitable event following lung resection. Patients with readmission had an increased risk of death. Refractory air leakage after lung resection for primary lung cancer was strongly associated with unexpected readmission.
Umbilical cord blood transplantation can overcome the poor prognosis of KMT2A-MLLT3 acute myeloid leukemia and can lead to good GVHD-free/relapse-free survival
Authors: Tong Juan , Zhang Lei , Liu Huilan , Xu Xiucai , Zheng Changcheng , Yao Wen , Zhu Xiaoyu , Tang Baolin , Wan Xiang , Song Kaidi , Zhang Xuhan , Sun Guangyu , Sun Zimin
Published: January 2021

This is a retrospective study comparing the effectiveness of umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT) and chemotherapy for patients in the first complete remission period for acute myeloid leukemia with KMT2A-MLLT3 rearrangements. A total of 22 patients were included, all of whom achieved first complete remission (CR1) through 1–2 rounds of induction chemotherapy, excluding patients with an early relapse. Twelve patients were treated with UCBT, and 10 patients were treated with chemotherapy after 2 to 4 courses of consolidation therapy. The 3-year overall survival (OS) of the UCBT group was 71.3% (95% CI, 34.4–89.8%), and that of the chemotherapy group was 10% (95% CI, 5.89–37.3%). The OS of the UCBT group was significantly higher than that of the chemotherapy group (P = 0.003). The disease-free survival (DFS) of the UCBT group was 60.8% (95% CI, 25.0–83.6%), which was significantly higher than the 10% (95% CI, 5.72–35.8%) of the chemotherapy group (P = 0.003). The relapse rate of the UCBT group was 23.6% (95% CI, 0–46.8%), and that of the chemotherapy group was 85.4% (95% CI, 35.8–98.4%), which was significantly higher than that of the UCBT group (P < 0.001). The non-relapse mortality (NRM) rate in the UCBT group was 19.8% (95% CI, 0–41.3%), and that in the chemotherapy group was 0.0%. The NRM rate in the UCBT group was higher than that in the chemotherapy group, but there was no significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.272). Two patients in the UCBT group relapsed, two died of acute and chronic GVHD, and one patient developed chronic GVHD 140 days after UCBT and is still alive, so the GVHD-free/relapse-free survival (GRFS) was 50% (95% CI, 17.2–76.1%). AML patients with KMT2A-MLLT3 rearrangements who receive chemotherapy as their consolidation therapy after CR1 have a very poor prognosis. UCBT can overcome the poor prognosis and significantly improve survival, and the GRFS for these patients is very good. We suggest that UCBT is a better choice than chemotherapy for KMT2A-MLLT3 patients.
Exploring human splenic red pulp vasculature in virtual reality: details of sheathed capillaries and the open capillary network
Authors: Steiniger Birte S. , Pfeffer Henriette , Guthe Michael , Lobachev Oleg
Published: January 2021

We reconstructed serial sections of a representative adult human spleen to clarify the unknown arrangement of the splenic microvasculature, such as terminal arterioles, sheathed capillaries, the red pulp capillary network and venules. The resulting 3D model was evaluated in virtual reality (VR). Capillary sheaths often occurred after the second or third branching of a terminal arteriole and covered its capillary side or end branches. The sheaths started directly after the final smooth muscle cells of the arteriole and consisted of cuboidal CD271++ stromal sheath cells surrounded and infiltrated by B lymphocytes and macrophages. Some sheaths covered up to four sequential capillary bifurcations thus forming bizarre elongated structures. Each sheath had a unique form. Apart from symmetric dichotomous branchings inside the sheath, sheathed capillaries also gave off side branches, which crossed the sheath and freely ended at its surface. These side branches are likely to distribute materials from the incoming blood to sheath-associated B lymphocytes and macrophages and thus represent the first location for recognition of blood-borne antigens in the spleen. A few non-sheathed bypasses from terminal arterioles to the red pulp capillary network also exist. Red pulp venules are primarily supplied by sinuses, but they also exhibit a few connections to the capillary network. Thus, the human splenic red pulp harbors a primarily open microcirculation with a very minor closed part.
Stereology as the 3D tool to quantitate lung architecture
Authors: Knudsen Lars , Brandenberger Christina , Ochs Matthias
Published: January 2021

Stereology is the method of choice for the quantitative assessment of biological objects in microscopy. It takes into account the fact that, in traditional microscopy such as conventional light and transmission electron microscopy, although one has to rely on measurements on nearly two-dimensional sections from fixed and embedded tissue samples, the quantitative data obtained by these measurements should characterize the real three-dimensional properties of the biological objects and not just their “flatland” appearance on the sections. Thus, three-dimensionality is a built-in property of stereological sampling and measurement tools. Stereology is, therefore, perfectly suited to be combined with 3D imaging techniques which cover a wide range of complementary sample sizes and resolutions, e.g. micro-computed tomography, confocal microscopy and volume electron microscopy. Here, we review those stereological principles that are of particular relevance for 3D imaging and provide an overview of applications of 3D imaging-based stereology to the lung in health and disease. The symbiosis of stereology and 3D imaging thus provides the unique opportunity for unbiased and comprehensive quantitative characterization of the three-dimensional architecture of the lung from macro to nano scale.
Modal analysis and insights into damping phenomena of a special vibration chain
Authors: Müller Peter C. , Weber Wolfgang E.
Published: January 2021

Vibration chains are of interest in many fields of practical applications. In this contribution, a modal analysis of the rather special Mikota’s vibration chain  is performed. Herein, focus is set on the mode shapes of this multibody oscillator, which was firstly introduced by Mikota as a solid body compensator in hydraulic systems for filtering out fluid flow pulsations. The mode shapes show interesting properties, e.g. an increase in the polynomial representing the coordinates of each mode shape with an increasing eigenfrequency associated with the respective mode shape. This and other properties are discussed exemplary. Some of these properties still have to be proven, which is the task of future work. Additionally, modal damping of Mikota’s vibration chain is discussed. Moreover, an approach for determining the damping matrix for given Lehr’s damping measures without knowing the mode shapes in advance is introduced. This approach involves the determination of a matrix root.
Bayesian mechanics of perceptual inference and motor control in the brain
Authors: Kim Chang Sub
Published: January 2021

The free energy principle (FEP) in the neurosciences stipulates that all viable agents induce and minimize informational free energy in the brain to fit their environmental niche. In this study, we continue our effort to make the FEP a more physically principled formalism by implementing free energy minimization based on the principle of least action. We build a Bayesian mechanics (BM) by casting the formulation reported in the earlier publication (Kim in Neural Comput 30:2616–2659, 2018, 10.1162/neco_a_01115) to considering active inference beyond passive perception. The BM is a neural implementation of variational Bayes under the FEP in continuous time. The resulting BM is provided as an effective Hamilton’s equation of motion and subject to the control signal arising from the brain’s prediction errors at the proprioceptive level. To demonstrate the utility of our approach, we adopt a simple agent-based model and present a concrete numerical illustration of the brain performing recognition dynamics by integrating BM in neural phase space. Furthermore, we recapitulate the major theoretical architectures in the FEP by comparing our approach with the common state-space formulations.
Endoglin and TGF-β signaling in glioblastoma
Authors: Burghardt Isabel , Ventura Elisa , Weiss Tobias , Schroeder Judith Johanna , Seystahl Katharina , Zielasek Christian , Gramatzki Dorothee , Weller Michael
Published: January 2021

Microvascular proliferation is a key feature of glioblastoma and neovascularization has been implicated in tumor progression. Glioblastomas use pro-angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for new blood vessel formation. Yet, anti-VEGF therapy does not prolong overall survival so that alternative angiogenic pathways may need to be explored as drug targets. Both glioma cells and glioma-associated endothelial cells produce TGF-β superfamily ligands which bind TGF-β receptors (TGF-βR). The TGF-βR type III endoglin (CD105), is a marker of proliferating endothelium that has already been studied as a potential therapeutic target. We studied endoglin expression in glioblastoma tissue and in glioma-associated endothelial cells in a cohort of 52 newly diagnosed and 10 recurrent glioblastoma patients by immunohistochemistry and by ex vivo single-cell gene expression profiling of 6 tumors. Endoglin protein levels were similar in tumor stroma and endothelium and correlated within tumors. Similarly, endoglin mRNA determined by ex vivo single-cell gene expression profiling was expressed in both compartments. There was positive correlation between endoglin and proteins of TGF-β superfamily signaling. No prognostic role of endoglin expression in either compartment was identified. Endoglin gene silencing in T98G glioma cells and in human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (hCMEC) did not affect constitutive or exogenous TGF-β superfamily ligand-dependent signaling, except for a minor facilitation of pSmad1/5 signaling in hCMEC. These observations challenge the notion that endoglin might become a promising therapeutic target in glioblastoma.
Should neurosurgeons continue to work in the absence of personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 era?
Authors: Eijkholt Marleen , Hulsbergen Alexander , Muskens Ivo , Mathiesen Tiit Illimar , Bolger Ciaran , Feldman Zeev , Kitchen Neil , Samprón Nicolás , Sandvik Ulrika , Tisell Magnus , Broekman Marike
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a widespread shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE). Many healthcare workers, including neurosurgeons, have expressed concern about how to safely and adequately perform their medical responsibilities in these challenging circumstances. One of these concerns revolves around the pressing question: should providers continue to work in the absence of adequate PPE? Although the first peak of the COVID-19 crisis seems to have subsided and supply of PPE has increased, concerns about insufficient PPE availability remain. Inconsistent supply, limited efficacy, and continued high demand for PPE, combined with the continued threat of a second COVID-19 wave, mean that the issues surrounding PPE availability remain unresolved, including a duty to work. This paper offers an ethical investigation of whether neurosurgeons should perform their professional responsibilities with limited availability of PPE. We evaluate ethical considerations and conflicting duties and thereby hope to facilitate providers in making a well-considered personal and moral decision about this challenging issue.
Improving P300 Speller performance by means of optimization and machine learning
Authors: Bianchi Luigi , Liti Chiara , Liuzzi Giampaolo , Piccialli Veronica , Salvatore Cecilia
Published: January 2021

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) are systems allowing people to interact with the environment bypassing the natural neuromuscular and hormonal outputs of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). These interfaces record a user’s brain activity and translate it into control commands for external devices, thus providing the PNS with additional artificial outputs. In this framework, the BCIs based on the P300 Event-Related Potentials (ERP), which represent the electrical responses recorded from the brain after specific events or stimuli, have proven to be particularly successful and robust. The presence or the absence of a P300 evoked potential within the EEG features is determined through a classification algorithm. Linear classifiers such as stepwise linear discriminant analysis and support vector machine (SVM) are the most used discriminant algorithms for ERPs’ classification. Due to the low signal-to-noise ratio of the EEG signals, multiple stimulation sequences (a.k.a. iterations) are carried out and then averaged before the signals being classified. However, while augmenting the number of iterations improves the Signal-to-Noise Ratio, it also slows down the process. In the early studies, the number of iterations was fixed (no stopping environment), but recently several early stopping strategies have been proposed in the literature to dynamically interrupt the stimulation sequence when a certain criterion is met in order to enhance the communication rate. In this work, we explore how to improve the classification performances in P300 based BCIs by combining optimization and machine learning. First, we propose a new decision function that aims at improving classification performances in terms of accuracy and Information Transfer Rate both in a no stopping and early stopping environment. Then, we propose a new SVM training problem that aims to facilitate the target-detection process. Our approach proves to be effective on several publicly available datasets.
Diagnostic value of radiomics and machine learning with dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for patients with atypical ductal hyperplasia in predicting malignant upgrade
Authors: Lo Gullo Roberto , Vincenti Kerri , Rossi Saccarelli Carolina , Gibbs Peter , Fox Michael J. , Daimiel Isaac , Martinez Danny F. , Jochelson Maxine S. , Morris Elizabeth A. , Reiner Jeffrey S. , Pinker Katja
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To investigate whether radiomics features extracted from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of patients with biopsy-proven atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) coupled with machine learning can differentiate high-risk lesions that will upgrade to malignancy at surgery from those that will not, and to determine if qualitatively and semi-quantitatively assessed imaging features, clinical factors, and image-guided biopsy technical factors are associated with upgrade rate.

Methods

This retrospective study included 127 patients with 139 breast lesions yielding ADH at biopsy who were assessed with multiparametric MRI prior to biopsy. Two radiologists assessed all lesions independently and with a third reader in consensus according to the BI-RADS lexicon. Univariate analysis and multivariate modeling were performed to identify significant radiomic features to be included in a machine learning model to discriminate between lesions that upgraded to malignancy on surgery from those that did not.

Results

Of 139 lesions, 28 were upgraded to malignancy at surgery, while 111 were not upgraded. Diagnostic accuracy was 53.6%, specificity 79.2%, and sensitivity 15.3% for the model developed from pre-contrast features, and 60.7%, 86%, and 22.8% for the model developed from delta radiomics datasets. No significant associations were found between any radiologist-assessed lesion parameters and upgrade status. There was a significant correlation between the number of specimens sampled during biopsy and upgrade status (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Radiomics analysis coupled with machine learning did not predict upgrade status of ADH. The only significant result from this analysis is between the number of specimens sampled during biopsy procedure and upgrade status at surgery.
Male–Female Fertility Differentials Across 17 High-Income Countries: Insights From A New Data Resource
Authors: Dudel Christian , Klüsener Sebastian
Published: January 2021

Obtaining cross-country comparative perspectives on male fertility has long been difficult, as male fertility is usually less well registered than female fertility. Recent methodological advancements in imputing missing paternal ages at childbirth enable us to provide a new database on male fertility. This new resource covers more than 330 million live births and is based on a consistent and well-tested set of methods. These methods allow us to handle missing information on the paternal age, which is missing for roughly 10% of births. The data resource is made available in the Human Fertility Collection and allows for the first time a comparative perspective on male fertility in high-income countries using high-quality birth register data. We analyze trends in male–female fertility quantum and tempo differentials across 17 high-income countries, dating as back as far as the late 1960s for some countries, and with data available for the majority of countries from the 1980s onward. Using descriptive and counterfactual analysis methods, we find substantial variation both across countries and over time. Related to the quantum we demonstrate that disparities between male and female period fertility rates are driven to a large degree by the interplay of parental age and cohort size differences. For parental age differences at childbirth, we observe a development toward smaller disparities, except in Eastern Europe. This observation fits with expectations based on gender theories. However, variation across countries also seems to be driven by factors other than gender equality.
Adults with Autism: Changes in Understanding Since DSM-111
Authors: Howlin Patricia
Published: January 2021

Over the past four decades there have been significant advances in our understanding of autism, yet services for autistic adults continue to lag far behind those for children, and prospects for employment and independent living remain poor. Adult outcomes also vary widely and while cognitive and language abilities are important prognostic indicators, the influence of social, emotional, familial and many other factors remains uncertain. For this special issue marking the 40th anniversary of DSM-III, the present paper describes the changing perspectives of autism in adulthood that have occurred over this period, explores individual and wider environmental factors related to outcome, and suggests ways in which services need to be changed to improve the future for adults living with autism.
Does Language Matter? Identity-First Versus Person-First Language Use in Autism Research: A Response to Vivanti
Authors: Botha Monique , Hanlon Jacqueline , Williams Gemma Louise
Published: January 2021

In response to Vivanti’s ‘Ask The Editor…’ paper [Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 50(2), 691–693], we argue that the use of language in autism research has material consequences for autistic people including stigmatisation, dehumanisation, and violence. Further, that the debate in the use of person-first language versus identity-first language should centre first and foremost on the needs, autonomy, and rights of autistic people, so in to preserve their rights to self-determination. Lastly, we provide directions for future research.
Live birth achieved despite the absence of ejaculated spermatozoa and mature oocytes retrieved: a case report
Authors: Holubcová Zuzana , Otevřel Pavel , Koudelka Marek , Kloudová Soňa
Published: January 2021

The most common reason for in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle cancelation is a lack of quality gametes available for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Here we present the successful fertility treatment of the couple affected by obstructive azoospermia combined with suboptimal response to controlled ovarian stimulation. Since the conventional approach appeared ineffective to overcome both partnersˈ specific problems, the targeted interventions, namely, (1) pharmacological enhancement of sperm motility and (2) polarized light microscopy (PLM)-guided optimization of ICSI time, were applied to rescue the cycle with only immature oocytes and immotile testicular sperm retrieved. The treatment with theophylline aided the selection of viable spermatozoa derived from cryopreserved testicular tissue. When the traditional stimulation protocol failed to produce mature eggs, non-invasive spindle imaging was employed to adjust the sperm injection time to the maturational stage of oocytes extruding a polar body in vitro. The fertilization of 12 late-maturing oocytes yielded 5 zygotes, which all developed into blastocysts. One embryo was transferred into the uterus on day 5 post-fertilization, and another 3 good quality blastocysts were vitrified for later use. The pregnancy resulted in a full-term delivery of a healthy child. This case demonstrates that the individualization beyond the standard IVF protocols should be considered to maximize the chance of poor-prognosis patients to achieve pregnancy with their own gametes.
In vitro cytotoxicity of different dental resin-cements on human cell lines
Authors: Diemer Freya , Stark Helmut , Helfgen Ernst-Heinrich , Enkling Norbert , Probstmeier Rainer , Winter Jochen , Kraus Dominik
Published: January 2021

Adhesive resin-cements are increasingly used in modern dentistry. Nevertheless, released substances from resin materials have been shown to cause cellular toxic effects. Disc-shaped specimens from 12 different resin cements and one conventional zinc phosphate cement were prepared and used for direct stimulation of five different human cell lines via transwell cell culture system or in an indirect way using conditioned cell culture media. Cytotoxicity was determined using LDH and BCA assays. All tested cements led to a decrease of cell viability but to a distinct extent depending on cell type, luting material, and cytotoxicity assay. In general, cements exhibited a more pronounced cytotoxicity in direct stimulation experiments compared to stimulations using conditioned media. Interestingly, the conventional zinc phosphate cement showed the lowest impact on cell viability. On cellular level, highest cytotoxic effects were detected in osteoblastic cell lines. All resin cements reduced cell viability of human cells with significant differences depending on cell type and cement material. Especially, osteoblastic cells demonstrated a tremendous increase of cytotoxicity after cement exposure. Although the results of this in vitro study cannot be transferred directly to a clinical setting, it shows that eluted substances from resin cements may disturb osteoblastic homeostasis that in turn could lead to conditions favoring peri-implant bone destruction. Thus, the wide use of resin cements in every clinical situation should be scrutinized. A correct use with complete removal of all cement residues and a sufficient polymerization should be given the utmost attention in clinical usage.
Nanofibrous bicomponent scaffolds for the dual delivery of NGF and GDNF: controlled release of growth factors and their biological effects
Authors: Liu Chaoyu , Li Xiaohua , Zhao Qilong , Xie Yuancai , Yao Xumei , Wang Min , Cao Fengjun
Published: January 2021

Electrospun fibrous scaffolds capable of providing dual growth factor delivery in a controlled manner have distinctive advantages for tissue engineering. In this study, we have investigated the formation, structure, and characteristics/properties of fibrous bicomponent scaffolds for the dual delivery of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) for peripheral nerve tissue regeneration. GDNF and NGF were incorporated into core-shell structured poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and poly (d,l-lactic acid) (PDLLA) nanofibers, respectively, through emulsion electrospinning. Using dual-source dual-power electrospinning, bicomponent scaffolds composed of GDNF/PLGA fibers and NGF/PDLLA fibers with different fiber component ratios were produced. The structure, properties, and in vitro release behavior of mono- and bicomponent scaffolds were systematically investigated. Concurrent and sustained release of GDNF and NGF from bicomponent scaffolds was achieved and their release profiles could be tuned. In vitro biological investigations were conducted. Rat pheochromocytoma cells were found to attach, spread, and proliferate on all scaffolds. The release of growth factors from scaffolds could induce much improved neurite outgrowth and neural differentiation. GDNF and NGF released from GDNF/PLGA scaffolds and NGF/PDLLA scaffolds, respectively, could induce dose-dependent neural differentiation separately. GDNF and NGF released from bicomponent scaffolds exerted a synergistic effect on promoting neural differentiation.
Bone-like ceramic scaffolds designed with bioinspired porosity induce a different stem cell response
Authors: Panseri Silvia , Montesi Monica , Hautcoeur Dominique , Dozio Samuele M. , Chamary Shaan , De Barra Eamonn , Tampieri Anna , Leriche Anne
Published: January 2021

Biomaterial science increasingly seeks more biomimetic scaffolds that functionally augment the native bone tissue. In this paper, a new concept of a structural scaffold design is presented where the physiological multi-scale architecture is fully incorporated in a single-scaffold solution. Hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) bioceramic scaffolds with different bioinspired porosity, mimicking the spongy and cortical bone tissue, were studied. In vitro experiments, looking at the mesenchymal stem cells behaviour, were conducted in a perfusion bioreactor that mimics the physiological conditions in terms of interstitial fluid flow and associated induced shear stress. All the biomaterials enhanced cell adhesion and cell viability. Cortical bone scaffolds, with an aligned architecture, induced an overexpression of several late stage genes involved in the process of osteogenic differentiation compared to the spongy bone scaffolds. This study reveals the exciting prospect of bioinspired porous designed ceramic scaffolds that combines both cortical and cancellous bone in a single ceramic bone graft. It is prospected that dual core shell scaffold could significantly modulate osteogenic processes, once implanted in patients, rapidly forming mature bone tissue at the tissue interface, followed by subsequent bone maturation in the inner spongy structure.
Influence of nanoparticulated chitosan on the biomodification of eroded dentin: clinical and photographic longitudinal analysis of restorations
Authors: de Souza José Caetano , Tedesco Antônio Cláudio , Takahashi Luandra Aparecida Unten , Curylofo-Zotti Fabiana Almeida , Souza-Gabriel Aline Evangelista , Corona Silmara Aparecida Milori
Published: January 2021

To evaluate the influence of the pre-treatment with 2.5% nanoparticulate chitosan (2.5% NanoChi) solution on eroded dentin before the restorative dental treatment. The sample consisted of 22 patients (age between 33 and 52 years) with shallow or medium erosion lesions located in two homologous teeth. The teeth were randomly assigned according to dentin treatment: with 2.5% NanoChi and without with chitosan (control). The NanoChi were applied immediately after acid etching. The teeth were restored with Single Bond Universal (3 M) and Charisma resin (Kulzer). Analyzes were done using modified USPHS (retention, secondary caries, marginal adaptation, and sensitivity) and photographic (color, marginal pigmentation, and anatomical form) criteria at 7 days (baseline) and 1 year. Population demographics, Kaplan–Meier estimates and log-rank test (Mantel–Cox) were calculated for 1 year (α = 0.05). No significant difference was found in the survival rates between groups (p > 0.05) at 7 days and 1 year after treatment. After 7 days, 100% of the restorations were scored as Alpha on all criteria. After 1 year, 91% of the NanoChi restorations were scored as Alpha and 9% as Charlie for the retention, marginal adaptation, and anatomical form criteria, while 86% of the control restorations (without NanoChi) received the Alpha score and 14% received the Charlie. Secondary caries, sensitivity, color, and marginal pigmentation criteria were scored as Alpha in 100% of the restorations. The biomodification of eroded dentin with 2.5% NanoChi did not influence the survival of the restorations after 1 year. The application of 2.5% NanoChi on eroded dentin did not increase failures of resin restorations after 1 year and it can be used as a pre-treatment solution.
Identification and Bioactivities of Secondary Metabolites Derived from Endophytic Fungi Isolated from Ethnomedicinal Plants of Tujia in Hubei Province: A Review
Authors: Ye Ke , Ai Hong-Lian , Liu Ji-Kai
Published: January 2021

Tujia is a national minority, inhabiting in the mountainous Wuling area in China. Since 1978, Tujia medicine has been studied, summarized and developed, leading to numerous achievements by Chinese researchers, such as the publishing of approximately 30 monographs of Tujia medicine. These publications are focused on summarizing and improving the theory of Tujia medicine and developing clinical therapies from this system of medicine. The shortage of natural medicinal plants used in Tujia medicine has created the need to discover new resources to replace them and protect endangered natural plant species. Endophytic fungi are one of the conservation options, are considered a source of new bioactive natural products, and are a renewable and inexhaustible source of new drugs and agrochemicals. This review summarizes 260 compounds from endophytic fungi that have been previously isolated from the medicinal plants of Tujia. These compounds include steroids, terpenoids, meroterpenoids, polyketides, alkaloids, peptides, aliphatic compounds, aromatic compounds, and heterocyclic compounds.

Graphic Abstract
Comparative Thinking in Biology
Authors: Currie Adrian
Published: January 2021

Biologists often study living systems in light of their having evolved, of their being the products of various processes of heredity, adaptation, ancestry, and so on. In their investigations, then, biologists think comparatively: they situate lineages into models of those evolutionary processes, comparing their targets with ancestral relatives and with analogous evolutionary outcomes. This element characterizes this mode of investigation - 'comparative thinking' - and puts it to work in understanding why biological science takes the shape it does. Importantly, comparative thinking is local: what we can do with knowledge of a lineage is limited by the evolutionary processes into which it fits. In light of this analysis, the Element examines the experimental study of animal cognition, and macroevolutionary investigation of the 'shape of life', demonstrating the importance of comparative thinking in understanding both the power and limitations of biological knowledge.
Electrifying Europe
Authors: Lagendijk Vincent , Lyddon Dave , Vandaele Kurt
Published: January 2021

Nowadays most consumers are aware of the European dimensions of their electricity supply. But what ideas lie behind this European network? In constructing electricity networks, Europe performed a Janus-faced function. On the one hand, a European network would bolster economic growth and peace. On the other, economic growth through electrification would increase military potential.

By combining a wide array of rarely used sources, this book unravels how engineers, industrialists, and policymakers used ideas of Europe to gain support for building a European system. By focusing on transnational and European actors, this book is a valuable addition to existing national histories of electrification. It is an original contribution to the history of technology, while also making the role of technology visible in more mainstream European history.

The empirical chapters show how ideas of European cooperation in general became intertwined with network planning during the Interwar period, although the Depression and WWII prevented a European electricity network from being constructed. The subsequent chapters describe the influence of the Marshall Plan on European network-building, focusing on both its economic and military aspects. The last chapter portrays how the Iron Curtain was contested. The troubled expansion of networks and capacity in Western Europe provided an underpinning for political rapprochement with the East in the 1970s and 1980s. Political and economic turmoil after 1989 accelerated this process, leading to an interconnected European system by 1995.
A Precolumbian Presence of Venetian Glass Trade Beads in Arctic Alaska
Authors: Kunz Michael L. , Mills Robin O.
Published: January 2021

Excavation at three Late Prehistoric Eskimo sites in arctic Alaska has revealed the presence of Venetian glass trade beads in radiocarbon-dated contexts that predate Columbus's discovery of the Western Hemisphere. The bead variety, commonly known as “Early Blue” and “Ichtucknee Plain,” has been confirmed by expert examination and comparative Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA). The beads are present in sites throughout the Caribbean, the eastern coast of Central and North America, and the eastern Great Lakes region, where they are commonly found in sites dating between approximately AD 1550 and 1750, although a diminishing presence continues into the early 1800s. Beads of this variety have not previously been reported from Alaska. Ascribed to Venetian production by their precolumbian age, the beads challenge the currently accepted chronology for the development of their production methodology, availability, and presence in the Americas. In the absence of trans-Atlantic communication, the most likely route these beads traveled from Europe to northwestern Alaska is across Eurasia and over the Bering Strait. This is the first documented instance of the presence of indubitable European materials in prehistoric sites in the Western Hemisphere as the result of overland transport across the Eurasian continent.
Profiling inflammatory cytokines following zinc supplementation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials
Authors: Faghfouri Amir Hossein , Baradaran Behzad , Khabbazi Alireza , Khaje Bishak Yaser , Zarezadeh Meysam , Tavakoli-Rouzbehani Omid Mohammad , Faghfuri Elnaz , Payahoo Laleh , Alipour Maedeh , Alipour Beitullah
Published: January 2021

Chronic inflammation has been considered as the main cause of chronic diseases. Zn has anti-inflammatory effects by decreasing the expression of inflammatory markers. The present systematic review and meta-analysis study aims to evaluate the impact of Zn supplementation on inflammation. PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched up to 10 December 2020. Controlled trials which have investigated the effects of Zn supplementation on serum/plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines in subjects aged >15 years were included. A pooled meta-analysis was performed using a random effect model. Sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the robustness of the observed effect sizes. A total of twelve studies was included in meta-analysis. Zn could decrease IL-6 levels (standardised mean difference (SMD) = −0·76 pg/ml; 95 % CI −1·28, −0·24;P= 0·004). There was no significant change in TNF-α (SMD = 0·42 pg/ml; 95 % CI −0·31, 1·16;P= 0·257) and IL-2 levels (SMD = 1·64 pg/ml; 95 % CI −1·31, 4·59;P= 0·277) following Zn supplementation. However, Zn could increase IL-2 significantly after the deletion of one arm in sensitivity analysis (SMD = 2·96 pg/ml; 95 % CI 2·03, 3·88;P< 0·05). Conclusively, Zn supplementation can decrease the IL-6 level. Zn increased IL-2 level after the sensitivity analysis. Zn supplementation has not ameliorative effects on TNF-α.
Formation of transient high-β plasmas in a magnetized, weakly collisional regime
Authors: Byvank T. , Endrizzi D. A. , Forest C. B. , Langendorf S. J. , McCollam K. J. , Hsu S. C.
Published: January 2021

We present experimental data providing evidence for the formation of transient (

${\sim }20\ \mathrm {\mu }\textrm {s}$

) plasmas that are simultaneously weakly magnetized (i.e. Hall magnetization parameter

$\omega \tau > 1$

) and dominated by thermal pressure (i.e. ratio of thermal-to-magnetic pressure

$\beta > 1$

). Particle collisional mean free paths are an appreciable fraction of the overall system size. These plasmas are formed via the head-on merging of two plasmas launched by magnetized coaxial guns. The ratio

$\lambda _{\textrm {gun}}=\mu _0 I_{\textrm {gun}}/\psi _{\textrm {gun}}$

of gun current

$I_{\textrm {gun}}$

to applied magnetic flux

$\psi _{\textrm {gun}}$

is an experimental knob for exploring the parameter space of

$\beta$

and

$\omega \tau$

. These experiments were conducted on the Big Red Ball at the Wisconsin Plasma Physics Laboratory. The transient formation of such plasmas can potentially open up new regimes for the laboratory study of weakly collisional, magnetized, high-

$\beta$

plasma physics; processes relevant to astrophysical objects and phenomena; and novel magnetized plasma targets for magneto-inertial fusion.
Scottish Health Technologies Group: enhancing patient engagement
Authors: Stewart James Angus , Clifton Edward , Macpherson Karen , Angelova Nikolina , Morrison Graeme
Published: January 2021

Objectives

The Scottish Health Technologies Group (SHTG) provides evidence support and advice to the National Health Service in Scotland on the use of new and existing health technologies, which, although not medicines, are likely to have significant implications for people's care. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the developments that have taken place in the SHTG's patient involvement processes in the years 2017 to 2019, focusing primarily on specific engagement with patient organizations and considering how the new approaches have been received by stakeholders.

Methods

Feedback from patient organizations that participated in the SHTG submission process, alongside SHTG committee members’ views on patient organizations contributions, was gathered primarily via online questionnaires. The number of times that patient organizations were invited and accepted the opportunity to peer-review SHTG advice statements prior to and after the employment of a Public Involvement Advisor (PIA) was analyzed.

Results

Completed questionnaires (n = 4) from three case study examples showed high patient organization satisfaction with their experience of the SHTG process. The feedback from SHTG committee members that was gathered indicated that patient organization participation was generally well received. The number of peer reviews from patient organizations for SHTG advice statements in 2018–2019 doubled to 86 percent of the total advice statements (n = 22), compared with 43 percent (n = 14) in 2016–2017.

Conclusions

Significant progress has been made toward improving the SHTG's patient involvement processes. A dedicated PIA post within the SHTG has allowed for a more tailored support to patient organizations and has encouraged their increased participation in SHTG processes.
The Case Of Phillip Becker: A Legal Travesty
Authors: Annas George J.
Published: January 2021

As a society, we look to the law and the courts to vindicate and protect human rights. When the courts fail, the tragedy falls not only on the victim but also on all of us; human rights must be universal or we cannot be certain of them for ourselves. A recent California case illustrates that courts too sometimes fail to vindicate the rights of the weak and helpless.* While not specifically dealing with nursing, the case is so bizarre, and has received such publicity, that all nurses should be aware of its implications.
When Institutionalized Mental Patients Can Refuse Psychotropic Medication
Authors: Annas George J.
Published: January 2021

Nurses and nurses' aides probably administer almost all the medications in most large mental institutions. Until recently it was generally assumed that whatever drug the physician ordered, the nurse had to administer and the patient had to accept. Two recent cases, however, have challenged these assumptions and may lead to major changes in the way mental patients are treated.

There are two basic justifications for confining the mentally ill: (1) to protect them or other members of society — the so-called “police power” justification; and (2) to care for those unable to care for themselves — the parens patriae justification. Both generally require use of the “least restrictive alternative.” Mentally ill patients may or may not be competent to make any number of decisions, including the decision to accept or reject medications; but when can they be forcibly treated?
Radical Faith: The Right Stuff?
Authors: Annas George J.
Published: January 2021

The title of Tom Wolfe's current best seller, The Right Stuff, refers to those qualities — manliness, fearlessness, survivability, and recklessness — that characterize successful test pilots in general, and Mercury astronauts in particular. A similar list could be compiled to characterize successful surgeons. It would likely include decisiveness, confidence, dexterity, and dedication. The list would be unlikely to include open-mindedness or a concern to present patients with all the options available for particular disease conditions.

This “self-righteous silence” has recently brought the wrath of the women's movement down on surgeons who perform breast cancer operations without informing their patients about alternatives. And in 1979 Massachusetts became the first state to enact a law requiring physicians to provide “a patient suffering from any form of breast cancer” with “complete information on all alternative treatments which are medically viable.” This column examines the reaction to the law.
Responding to Patients' Requests for Information
Authors: Greenlaw Jane L.
Published: January 2021

There is little argument against the principle that the health care consumer has the right to all pertinent information regarding his condition and treatment. Nevertheless, there is resistance and patients frequently have difficulty obtaining important information.

Generally, it is the responsibility of the physician to inform the patient of his diagnosis and condition, the recommended treatment, its risks and its side effects, and any alternative treatments. This is the essence of obtaining the patient's informed consent, without which treatment is illegal and unethical. An important aspect of the nurse's role is to safeguard the patient's right to receive this information, and, when necessary, to assist the patient in obtaining it. Since she is in frequent close contact with the patient, the nurse should evaluate the patient's understanding and should inform the physician when further information or clarification is needed. Furthermore, when the nurse realizes that the patient has not received or understood the necessary information, the nurse should advise the patient of his right to receive it before consenting to any treatment or procedure.
Reporting Incompetent Colleagues
Authors: Greenlaw Jane
Published: January 2021

The practice of medicine, nursing and other health care professions may be conducted only after lawful acquisition of a license to do so. In most states, the licensing board is made up primarily of members of the specific profession and is generally charged with all matters with regard to regulating the profession, including promulgation of standards of practice, conducting disciplinary procedures, and imposing sanctions.