bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On sampling error in genetic programming
Authors: Schweim Dirk , Wittenberg David , Rothlauf Franz
Published: January 2021

The initial population in genetic programming (GP) should form a representative sample of all possible solutions (the search space). While large populations accurately approximate the distribution of possible solutions, small populations tend to incorporate a sampling error. This paper analyzes how the size of a GP population affects the sampling error and contributes to answering the question of how to size initial GP populations. First, we present a probabilistic model of the expected number of subtrees for GP populations initialized with full, grow, or ramped half-and-half. Second, based on our frequency model, we present a model that estimates the sampling error for a given GP population size. We validate our models empirically and show that, compared to smaller population sizes, our recommended population sizes largely reduce the sampling error of measured fitness values. Increasing the population sizes even more, however, does not considerably reduce the sampling error of fitness values. Last, we recommend population sizes for some widely used benchmark problem instances that result in a low sampling error. A low sampling error at initialization is necessary (but not sufficient) for a reliable search since lowering the sampling error means that the overall random variations in a random sample are reduced. Our results indicate that sampling error is a severe problem for GP, making large initial population sizes necessary to obtain a low sampling error. Our model allows practitioners of GP to determine a minimum initial population size so that the sampling error is lower than a threshold, given a confidence level.
Metal‐rich soils increase tropical tree stoichiometric distinctiveness
Authors: Trethowan Liam A. , Blonder Benjamin , Kintamani Endang , Girmansyah Deden , Utteridge Timothy M. A. , Brearley Francis Q.
Published: January 2021

Background and aims

Ultramafic soils have high metal concentrations, offering a key opportunity to understand if such metals are strong predictors of leaf stoichiometry. This is particularly relevant for tropical forests where large knowledge gaps exist.

Methods

On the tropical island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, we sampled forests on sand, limestone, mafic and ultramafic soils that present a range of soil metal concentrations. We asked how variation in 12 soil elements (metals and macronutrients) influenced leaf stoichiometry and whether stoichiometric distinctiveness (the average difference between a species and all others in a multivariate space, the axes of which are the concentrations of each leaf element) is influenced by increasing soil metal concentrations.

Results

Positive correlations between corresponding elements in soils and leaves were only found for Ca and P. Noticeably, soil Cr had a negative effect upon leaf P. Whilst most species had low stoichiometric distinctiveness, some species had greater distinctiveness on stressful metal-rich ultramafic soils, generally caused by the accumulation of Al, Co, Cr or Ni.

Conclusions

Our observation of increased stoichiometric distinctiveness in tropical forests on ultramafic soils indicates greater niche differentiation, and contrasts with the assumption that stressful environments remove species with extreme phenotypes.
Social Exclusion and Anti-Immigration Attitudes in Europe: The mediating role of Interpersonal Trust
Authors: Pellegrini Valerio , De Cristofaro Valeria , Salvati Marco , Giacomantonio Mauro , Leone Luigi
Published: January 2021

Managing immigration is a challenge at the political, economic, and social levels. Clarifying the social psychological antecedents behind the onset of negative attitudes towards immigrants might help overcome this challenge. The present study investigates the relationships between people’s experience of social exclusion, feelings of generalized interpersonal trust, and anti-immigrant attitudes across 23 European countries. We used data from the European Social Survey 8 (2016), employing a representative sample of the European population. A 1–1–1 multilevel mediation model showed that: (a) the higher the experience of social exclusion, the lower the generalized trust towards others; (b) the experience of social exclusion related positively and directly with anti-immigration attitudes; and (c) generalized interpersonal trust mediated the relationship between experienced social exclusion and anti-immigrant attitudes so that the experience of being socially excluded reduced feelings of generalized interpersonal trust that, in turn, promoted hostile attitudes towards immigrants. Taken together, these results create a platform for future research on the emergence of negative attitudes towards immigrants and factors that might facilitate the development of a climate of integration and acceptance.
Why did the United States Evolve from the Largest International Creditor in 1980 to the Largest International Debtor in 1990?
Authors: Aliber Robert
Published: January 2021

Remarkable transformation of the U.S. international investment position occurred over the last 40 years. U.S. net foreign assets were larger than combined net foreign assets of all other creditors. By 1990, foreign-owned U.S. securities and real assets were larger than U.S. owned foreign securities and assets. This change occurred without the U.S. Treasury borrowing in foreign currency and few U.S. firms borrowing, reflecting a surge in foreign purchases of U.S. securities. Inferences from the currency composition of portfolio changes of those who acquired U.S. dollar securities suggest that foreign savers took the initiative on cross-border investment inflows. The U.S. could not have developed a larger capital account surplus after 1980 unless a similar increase in the U.S. current account deficit occurred. The primary factor that led to the U.S. current account deficit increase was the surge in U.S. stocks and other asset prices, resulting in a U.S. household wealth surge and consumption boom. The foreign saving inflow displaced domestic saving. In addition, an increase in the price of the U.S. dollar led to expenditure-switching from U.S. goods to increasingly less expensive foreign goods. When investor demand for U.S. dollar securities declined, the U.S. dollar price fell in 1992, 2002, and 2020 and the price of U.S. dollar securities declined. The paper discusses the source of the change in the U.S. international investment position, the flow of foreign saving to the U.S., cyclical variability in the foreign saving flow to the U.S., and the potential impact of an adjustable parity arrangement.
Novel aspects of age-protection by spermidine supplementation are associated with preserved telomere length
Authors: Wirth Alexander , Wolf Bettina , Huang Cheng-Kai , Glage Silke , Hofer Sebastian J. , Bankstahl Marion , Bär Christian , Thum Thomas , Kahl Kai G. , Sigrist Stephan J. , Madeo Frank , Bankstahl Jens P. , Ponimaskin Evgeni
Published: January 2021

Ageing provokes a plethora of molecular, cellular and physiological deteriorations, including heart failure, neurodegeneration, metabolic maladaptation, telomere attrition and hair loss. Interestingly, on the molecular level, the capacity to induce autophagy, a cellular recycling and cleaning process, declines with age across a large spectrum of model organisms and is thought to be responsible for a subset of age-induced changes. Here, we show that a 6-month administration of the natural autophagy inducer spermidine in the drinking water to aged mice is sufficient to significantly attenuate distinct age-associated phenotypes. These include modulation of brain glucose metabolism, suppression of distinct cardiac inflammation parameters, decreased number of pathological sights in kidney and liver and decrease of age-induced hair loss. Interestingly, spermidine-mediated age protection was associated with decreased telomere attrition, arguing in favour of a novel cellular mechanism behind the anti-ageing effects of spermidine administration.
Psychopaths and Symmetry: A Reply to Nelkin
Authors: Talbert Matthew
Published: January 2021

An agent is morally competent if she can respond to moral considerations. There is a debate about whether agents are open to moral blame only if they are morally competent, and Dana Nelkin’s “Psychopaths, Incorrigible Racists, and the Faces of Responsibility” is an important contribution to this debate. Like others involved in this dispute, Nelkin takes the case of the psychopath to be instructive. This is because psychopaths are similar to responsible agents insofar as they act deliberately and on judgments about reasons, and yet psychopaths lack moral competence. Nelkin argues that, because of their moral incompetence, vices such as cruelty are not attributable to psychopaths. It follows that psychopaths are not open to moral blame since their behavior is only seemingly vicious. I have three aims in this reply to Nelkin. First, I respond to her claim that psychopaths are not capable of cruelty. Second, I respond to the related proposal—embedded in Nelkin’s “symmetry argument”—that a “pro-social psychopath” would not be capable of kindness. My responses to these claims are unified: even if the psychopath is not capable of “cruelty,” and the pro-social psychopath is not capable of “kindness,” the actions of these agents can have a significance for us that properly engages our blaming and praising practices. Finally, I argue that Nelkin’s strategy for showing that moral competence is required for cruelty supports a stronger conclusion than she anticipates: it supports the conclusion that blameworthiness requires not just moral competence, but actual moral understanding.
Common Structure of Vision and Olfaction
Authors: Skrzypulec Błażej
Published: January 2021

According to a common opinion, human olfactory experiences are significantly different from human visual experiences. For instance, olfaction seems to have only rudimentary abilities to represent space; it is not clear whether olfactory experiences have any mereological structure; and while vision presents the world in terms of objects, it is a matter of debate whether there are olfactory object-representations. This paper argues that despite these differences visual and olfactory experiences share a hierarchical subject/property structure. Within this structure, olfactorily experienced odours and visual objects have the same status: they are primary subjects which unify other represented elements into perceptual units.
Series of myocardial FDG uptake requiring considerations of myocardial abnormalities in FDG-PET/CT
Authors: Minamimoto Ryogo
Published: January 2021

Distinct from cardiac PET performed with preparation to control physiological FDG uptake in the myocardium, standard FDG-PET/CT performed with 4–6 h of fasting will show variation in myocardial FDG uptake. For this reason, important signs of myocardial and pericardial abnormality revealed by myocardial FDG uptake tend to be overlooked. However, recognition of possible underlying disease will support further patient management to avoid complications due to the disease. This review demonstrates the mechanism of FDG uptake in the myocardium, discusses the factors affecting uptake, and provides notable image findings that may suggest underlying disease.
Introduction to tailored forming
Authors: Behrens B.-A. , Uhe J.
Published: January 2021

In recent years, the requirements for technical components have been increasing steadily. This development is intensified by the desire for products with lower weight, smaller size and extended functionality, but at the same time higher resistance against specific loads. Mono-material components manufactured according to established processes reach their limits regarding conflicting requirements. It is, for example, hardly possible to combine excellent mechanical properties with lightweight construction using mono-materials. Thus, a significant increase in production quality, lightweight design, functionality and efficiency can only be reached by combining different materials in one component. The superior aim of the Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1153 is to develop novel process chains for the production of hybrid solid components. In contrast to existing process chains in bulk metal forming, in which the joining process takes place during forming or at the end of the process chain, the CRC 1153 uses tailored semi-finished workpieces which are joined before the forming process. This results in a geometric and thermomechanical influence on the joining zone during the forming process which cannot be created by conventional joining techniques. The present work gives an overview of the CRC and the Tailored Forming approach including the applied joining, forming and finishing processes as well as a short summary of the accompanying design and evaluation methods.
[18F]FDG PET/MRI in rectal cancer
Authors: Crimì Filippo , Valeggia Silvia , Baffoni Luca , Stramare Roberto , Lacognata Carmelo , Spolverato Gaya , Albertoni Laura , Spimpolo Alessandro , Evangelista Laura , Zucchetta Pietro , Cecchin Diego , Pucciarelli Salvatore
Published: January 2021

We conducted a systematic literature review on the use of [18F]FDG PET/MRI for staging/restaging rectal cancer patients with PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, based on the PRISMA criteria. Three authors screened all titles and abstracts and examined the full texts of all the identified relevant articles. Studies containing aggregated or duplicated data, review articles, case reports, editorials, and letters were excluded. Ten reports met the inclusion criteria. Four studies examined T staging and one focused on local recurrences after surgery; the reported sensitivity (94–100%), specificity (73–94%), and accuracy (92–100%) varied only slightly from one study to another. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of [18F]FDG PET/MRI for N staging were 90–93%, 92–94%, and 42–92%. [18F]FDG PET/MRI detected malignant nodes better than MRI, resulting in treatment change. For M staging, [18F]FDG PET/MRI outperformed [18F]FDG PET/CT and CT in detecting liver metastases, whereas it performed worse for lung metastases. The results of this review suggest that [18F]FDG PET/MRI should be used for rectal cancer restaging after chemoradiotherapy and to select patients for rectum-sparing approaches thanks to its accuracy in T and N staging. For M staging, it should be associated at least with a chest CT scan to rule out lung metastases.
Hepatoprotective effect of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells in CCl4-induced liver cirrhosis
Authors: Aithal Ashwini P. , Bairy Laxminarayana K. , Seetharam Raviraja N. , Kumar Naveen
Published: January 2021

Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) are multipotent stem cells which are ideal candidates for use in regenerative medicine. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of BM-MSC and its combination treatment with silymarin in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver cirrhosis animal model and to investigate whether tail vein or portal vein infusion was the ideal route for BM-MSC transplantation. 36 female Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6): Group 1 (normal control), Group 2 (received only CCl4, disease model), Group 3 (CCl4 + BM-MSCs through tail vein), Group 4 (CCl4 + BM-MSCs through portal vein), Group 5 (CCl4 + silymarin), Group 6 (CCl4 + BM-MSCs + silymarin). On the 21st day after treatment, blood samples were collected for biochemical estimations. After the experiment, the rats were sacrificed. Liver was dissected out and processed for histopathology and scanning electron microscopy studies. Liver enzyme and marker analysis, histopathological studies indicated that the combination of BM-MSCs and silymarin was effective in treating liver cirrhosis. Transplanted BM-MSCs in combination with silymarin ameliorated the liver tissue damage through their immunoregulatory activities. Among the two routes, the intravenous administration of cells through the tail vein was found to be more effective and safe.
Both variants of A1CF and BAZ1B genes are associated with gout susceptibility: a replication study and meta-analysis in a Japanese population
Authors: Kawaguchi Makoto , Nakayama Akiyoshi , Aoyagi Yuka , Nakamura Takahiro , Shimizu Seiko , Kawamura Yusuke , Takao Mikiya , Tamura Takashi , Hishida Asahi , Nagayoshi Mako , Nagase Mitsuo , Ooyama Keiko , Ooyama Hiroshi , Shinomiya Nariyoshi , Matsuo Hirotaka
Published: January 2021

Gout is a common type of acute arthritis that results from elevated serum uric acid (SUA) levels. Recent genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have revealed several novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) associated with SUA levels. Of these, rs10821905 of A1CF and rs1178977 of BAZ1B showed the greatest and the second greatest significant effect size for increasing SUA level in the Japanese population, but their association with gout is not clear. We examined their association with gout using 1411 clinically-defined Japanese gout patients and 1285 controls, and meta-analyzed our previous gout GWAS data to investigate any association with gout. Replication studies revealed both SNPs to be significantly associated with gout (P = 0.0366, odds ratio [OR] with 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30 [1.02–1.68] for rs10821905 of A1CF, P = 6.49 × 10–3, OR with 95% CI: 1.29 [1.07–1.55] for rs1178977 of BAZ1B). Meta-analysis also revealed a significant association with gout in both SNPs (Pmeta = 3.16 × 10–4, OR with 95% CI: 1.39 [1.17–1.66] for rs10821905 of A1CF, Pmeta = 7.28 × 10–5, OR with 95% CI 1.32 [1.15–1.51] for rs1178977 of BAZ1B). This study shows the first known association between SNPs of A1CF, BAZ1B and clinically-defined gout cases in Japanese. Our results also suggest a shared physiological/pathophysiological background between several populations, including Japanese, for both SUA increase and gout susceptibility. Our findings will not only assist the elucidation of the pathophysiology of gout and hyperuricemia, but also suggest new molecular targets.
Labia Minora Surgery in the Adolescent Population: A Cross-Sectional Satisfaction Study
Authors: Jodoin Andréanne , Dubuc Elise
Published: January 2021

Background

Labia minora surgeries are gaining popularity and we have limited data available to help counseling patients, especially in the adolescent population.

Aim

This study is meant to assess the complications and satisfaction of patients who had the surgery as adolescent.

Methods

We identified and reviewed all labia minora surgeries performed to address symptoms within the adolescent population from 2006 to 2016. A cross-sectional study was then performed. Questionnaires were sent through an Internet-based survey. Adolescent and adult populations from the literature were used for comparison.

Outcomes

A three-part questionnaire assessed surgical indications, current satisfaction regarding the surgery, and the sexual function, including the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS).

RESULTS

A total of 44 cases, from 12 to 18 years old, were included for the retrospective review. The major complaint leading to surgery was described as daily basis discomfort (39%) and aesthetics (33%). Surgical indications were similar for the survey responder group. 3 patients (6.8%) underwent redo surgery. We were able to reach 28 of the 44 potential participants for the cross-sectional study. A total of 17 questionnaires were completed (39%). We found a 20.5% rate of complication with 14% dehiscence, 9.3% significant bleeding, and 1 case of wound infection. This complication rate is higher than what has been found in the literature so far. All responders were partially (53%) or fully (47%) satisfied with the surgery. Results of FSFI were different in two of the 6 domains: lower lubrification (P = .0416) and higher orgasm (P = .0495) score compared to adolescent controls. The cutoff criteria for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder was met by 75%. Patients responded positively to the FGSIS questionnaire (M = 21.65, 95% CI: 20.31-22.98).

Clinical Implications

This study helps to identify specificities of the adolescent population who underwent labia minora surgery, potential increased complication rates compared to the adult population, even with overall significant postoperative satisfaction.

Strengths & Limitations

Lack of adequate control group for the FSFI and FGSIS, a small sample size, and a low response rate could have biased our results. To our knowledge, this is the biggest study to date to address this issue exclusively within the adolescent population, with the addition of validated questionnaires. The long delay since surgery (Mean = 8.3 yrs) permits to highlight temporal changes and potential long term complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients seem to have no regret about the surgery and sexual dysfunction rate comparable to the literature data, except for possible increased hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Combined genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses provide insights into chayote (Sechium edule) evolution and fruit development
Authors: Fu Anzhen , Wang Qing , Mu Jianlou , Ma Lili , Wen Changlong , Zhao Xiaoyan , Gao Lipu , Li Jian , Shi Kai , Wang Yunxiang , Zhang Xuechuan , Zhang Xuewen , Wang Fengling , Grierson Donald , Zuo Jinhua
Published: January 2021

Chayote (Sechium edule) is an agricultural crop in the Cucurbitaceae family that is rich in bioactive components. To enhance genetic research on chayote, we used Nanopore third-generation sequencing combined with Hi–C data to assemble a draft chayote genome. A chromosome-level assembly anchored on 14 chromosomes (N50 contig and scaffold sizes of 8.40 and 46.56 Mb, respectively) estimated the genome size as 606.42 Mb, which is large for the Cucurbitaceae, with 65.94% (401.08 Mb) of the genome comprising repetitive sequences; 28,237 protein-coding genes were predicted. Comparative genome analysis indicated that chayote and snake gourd diverged from sponge gourd and that a whole-genome duplication (WGD) event occurred in chayote at 25 ± 4 Mya. Transcriptional and metabolic analysis revealed genes involved in fruit texture, pigment, flavor, flavonoids, antioxidants, and plant hormones during chayote fruit development. The analysis of the genome, transcriptome, and metabolome provides insights into chayote evolution and lays the groundwork for future research on fruit and tuber development and genetic improvements in chayote.
A search for radio pulsars in five nearby supernova remnants
Authors: Sett S. , Breton R. P. , Clark C. J. , Kerkwijk M. H. , Kaplan D. L.
Published: January 2021

Context.Most neutron stars are expected to be born in supernovae, but only about half of supernova remnants (SNRs) are associated with a compact object. In many cases, a supernova progenitor may have resulted in a black hole. However, there are several possible reasons why true pulsar-SNR associations may have been missed in previous surveys: The pulsar’s radio beam may not be oriented towards us; the pulsar may be too faint to be detectable; or there may be an offset in the pulsar position caused by a kick.

Aims.Our goal is to find new pulsars in SNRs and explore their possible association with the remnant. The search and selection of the remnants presented in this paper was inspired by the non-detection of any X-ray bright compact objects in these remnants when previously studied.

Methods.Five SNRs were searched for radio pulsars with the Green Bank Telescope at 820 MHz with multiple pointings to cover the full spatial extent of the remnants. A periodicity search plus an acceleration search up to 500 m s−2and a single pulse search were performed for each pointing in order to detect potential isolated binary pulsars and single pulses, respectively.

Results.No new pulsars were detected in the survey. However, we were able to re-detect a known pulsar, PSR J2047+5029, near SNR G89.0+4.7. We were unable to detect the radio-quiet gamma-ray pulsar PSR J2021+4026, but we do find a flux density limit of 0.08 mJy. Our flux density limits make our survey two to 16 times more sensitive than previous surveys, while also covering the whole spatial extent of the same remnants.

Conclusions.We discuss potential explanations for the non-detection of a pulsar in the studied SNRs and conclude that sensitivity is still the most likely factor responsible for the lack of pulsars in some remnants.
Establishment of Normal Mechanical Tibial Joint Angles in Dachshunds
Authors: Banks Charlotte , Meeson Richard , Kulendra Elvin , Carwardine Darren , Mielke Benjamin , Pead Matthew , Phillips Helen , Phillips Andrew
Published: January 2021

Objective The aim of this study was to establish breed-standard mechanical tibial joint reference angles in the frontal plane in Dachshunds.

Study Design Craniocaudal (n = 38) and mediolateral (n = 32) radiographs of normal tibiae from Dachshunds were retrospectively reviewed. The mechanical medial proximal, mechanical medial distal, mechanical caudal proximal and mechanical cranial distal tibial angles were measured on three occasions by two separate observers using previously established methodology. Interclass correlation coefficient was used to assess the reliability of radiographic measurements.

Results The mean and standard deviation for mechanical medial proximal, mechanical medial distal, mechanical caudal proximal and mechanical cranial distal were 93.1 degrees ± 4.2, 97.5 degrees ± 3.9, 75.3 degrees ± 3.7 and 85.0 degrees ± 5.3 respectively. Intra-observer reliability was good to excellent for all measures, while inter-observer reliability was moderate to excellent in the frontal plane and poor to good in the sagittal plane. Dachshund-specific joint reference angles were similar to a range of previously reported non-chondrodystrophic breeds in the frontal plane but differed to most in the sagittal plane.

Conclusion Dachshund tibial joint reference angles are reported which can be used in surgical planning for correction of bilateral pes varus.
Osteomyocutaneous Free Fibula Flap Prevents Osteoradionecrosis and Osteomyelitis in Head and Neck Cancer Reconstruction
Authors: Wang Kuan-Ying , Liu Wen-Chung , Chen Chun-Feng , Chen Lee-Wei , Chen Hung-Chi , Yang Kuo-Chung
Published: January 2021

Background Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is one of the most severe complications of free fibula reconstruction after radiotherapy. The gold standard treatment of osteomyelitis involves extensive debridement, antibiotics, and sufficiently vascularized muscle flap coverage for better circulation. Therefore, we hypothesized that free fibula flap with muscle could decrease the risk of ORN.

Methods This study consisted of 85 patients who underwent reconstruction with free fibula flap in head and neck cancer by a single reconstructive surgeon at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital over a period of 19 years (1998–2016). Patients with postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy were included in the study and were grouped by either free fibula osteocutaneous flap or free fibula osteomyocutaneous flap (with flexor hallucis longus muscle), and the incidence of ORN was compared.

Results Of the 85 patients, 15 were reconstructed with osteocutaneous fibula flap and 70 were with osteomyocutaneous fibula flap. The rate of ORN or osteomyelitis was significantly lower in the muscle group (18.6%, n = 13/70 vs. 46.7%, n = 7/15, p = 0.020, Chi-square test).

Conclusion Vascularized muscle transfer increases perfusion of surrounding tissues and the bone flap, thereby decreasing the incidence of osteomyelitis or osteonecrosis.
Lymphatic Tissue Engineering: A Further Step for Successful Lymphedema Treatment
Authors: Spörlein Andreas , Will Patrick A. , Kilian Katja , Gazyakan Emre , Sacks Justin M. , Kneser Ulrich , Hirche Christoph
Published: January 2021

Background Secondary lymphedema, caused by oncologic surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, is one of the most relevant, nononcological complications affecting cancer survivors. Severe functional deficits can result in impairing quality of life and a societal burden related to increased treatment costs. Often, conservative treatments are not sufficient to alleviate lymphedema or to prevent stage progression of the disease, as they do not address the underlying etiology that is the disruption of lymphatic pathways. In recent years, lymphatic surgery approaches were revolutionized by advances in microsurgical technique. Currently, lymphedema can effectively be treated by procedures such as lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) and lymph node transfer (LNT). However, not all patients have suitable lymphatic vessels, and lymph node harvesting is associated with risks. In addition, some data have revealed nonresponders to the microsurgical techniques.

Methods A literature review was performed to evaluate the value of lymphatic tissue engineering for plastic surgeons and to give an overview of the achievements, challenges, and goals of the field.

Results While certain challenges exist, including cell harvesting, nutrient supply, biocompatibility, and hydrostatic properties, it is possible and desirable to engineer lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels. The path toward clinical translation is considered more complex for LNTs secondary to the complex microarchitecture and pending final mechanistic clarification, while LVA is more straight forward.

Conclusion Lymphatic tissue engineering has the potential to be the next step for microsurgical treatment of secondary lymphedema. Current and future researches are necessary to optimize this clinical paradigm shift for improved surgical treatment of lymphedema.
Histologic and Functional Outcomes of Conduit Wrapping for Peripheral Nerve Repair: Early Results in a Rat Model
Authors: Brogan David M. , Dy Christopher J. , Lee Tony Y. , Rioux-Forker Dana , Wever Jason , Leversedge Fraser J.
Published: January 2021

Background The concept of utilizing a nerve conduit for augmentation of a primary nerve repair has been advocated as a method to prevent neural scarring and decrease adhesions. Despite clinical use, little is known about the effects of a nerve conduit wrapped around a primary repair. To better understand this, we investigated the histologic and functional effects of use of a nerve conduit wrapped around a rat sciatic nerve repair without tension.

Methods Twenty Lewis' rats were divided into two groups of 10 rats each. In each group, unilateral sciatic nerve transection and repair were performed, with the opposite limb utilized as a matched control. In the first group, direct repair alone was performed; in the second group, this repair was augmented with a porcine submucosa conduit wrapped around the repair site. Sciatic functional index (SFI) was measured at 6 weeks with walking track analysis in both groups. Nonsurvival surgeries were then performed in all animals to harvest both the experimental and control nerves to measure histomorphometric parameters of recovery. Histomorphometric parameters assessed included total number of neurons, nerve fiber density, nerve fiber width, G-ratio, and percentage of debris. Unpaired t-test was used to compare outcomes between the two groups.

Results All nerves healed uneventfully but compared with direct repair; conduit usage was associated with greater histologic debris, decreased axonal density, worse G-ratio, and worse SFI. No significant differences were found in total axon count or gastrocnemius weight.

Conclusion In the absence of segmental defects, conduit wrapping primary nerve repairs seem to be associated with worse functional and mixed histologic outcomes at 6 weeks, possibly due to debris from conduit resorption. While clinical implications are unclear, more basic science and clinical studies should be performed prior to widespread adoption of this practice.
An Accurate Upper Lid Blepharoplasty: A Key Component of Facial Rejuvenation
Authors: Zimmerman Zachary , Thomas James Regan
Published: January 2021

Upper eyelid surgery is a common procedure performed by a variety of subspecialists including facial plastic surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons, general otolaryngologists, and plastic surgeons. Traditionally, a skin incision is marked in the preoperative setting to allow for an excision that eliminates upper eyelid hooding while preventing lagophthalmos. Many different methodologies have been proposed to maximize results and minimize complications. In this article, the authors propose a unique way to safely and effectively address dermatochalasis. The pinch technique allows for an accurate assessment of excess skin and provides a method that requires less operative time than traditional techniques. The use of both local anesthetic with epinephrine and hyaluronidase helps achieve the appropriate plane and attain better hemostasis. Importantly, the presented technique allows for reassessment and revision of the amount of skin excision before incision creation. It is a useful methodology for any surgeon performing upper lid blepharoplasty.
Noma and Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Face and Neck
Authors: Miller Lauren E. , Shaye David A.
Published: January 2021

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is part of the class of necrotizing soft tissue infections characterized by rapid fascial spread and necrosis of the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and superficial fascia. If left untreated, NF can rapidly deteriorate into multiorgan shock and systemic failure. NF most commonly infects the trunk and lower extremities, although it can sometimes present in the head and neck region. This review provides an overview of NF as it relates specifically to the head and neck region, including its associated clinical features and options for treatment. Noma, a related but relatively unknown disease, is then described along with its relationship with severe poverty.
Evaluation of Morbidities and Complications of Neonatal İntensive Care Unit Patients with Respiratory Disorders at Different Gestational Ages
Authors: Yarci Erbu , Canpolat Fuat E.
Published: January 2021

Objective Respiratory distress presented within the first few days of life is life-threatening and common problem in the neonatal period. The aim of this study is to estimate (1) the incidence of respiratory diseases in newborns and related mortality; (2) the relationship between acute neonatal respiratory disorders rates and gestational age, birth weight, and gender; and (3) the incidence of complications associated with respiratory disturbances.

Study Design Only inborn patients with gestational age between 230/7 and 416/7 weeks having respiratory distress were included in the study. The data were collected from the medical records and gestational age was based on the menstrual dating.

Results There were 8,474 live births between January 1, 2013, and June 30, 2013, in our hospital. A total of 1,367 newborns were hospitalized and oxygen therapy was applied in 903 of them because of respiratory distress. An acute respiratory disorder was found to be in 10.6% (903/8,474) among all live births. Mortality was 0.76% (66/8,474). The incidence of respiratory distress syndrome was 2.8% (n = 242). The occurrence of transient tachypnea of newborn was 3.1% (n = 270). Meconium aspiration syndrome, pneumonia, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and pulmonary maladaptation and primary persistent pulmonary hypertension rates were 0.1, 0.7, 2.2, and 0%, respectively. Overall, 553 (61%) of the 903 newborns having respiratory diseases had complications. The occurrence of necrotizing enterocolitis, patent ductus arteriosus, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage and air leak was 6.8, 19.8, 4.7, 24.9, and 5%, respectively.

Conclusion This study offers an epidemiological perspective for respiratory disorders from a single-center level-III neonatal intensive care unit. Although number of births, premature newborns, extremely low birth weight/very low birth weight infants, and complicated pregnancies increase in years, decreasing rates of mortality and complications are very promising. As perinatal and neonatal cares are getting better in every day, we think that more promising results can be achieved over the coming years.

Key Points
Preliminary Investigation of a Novel
Authors: Pascali Giancarlo , Panetta Daniele , De Simone Mariarosaria , Burchielli Silvia , Lucchesi Valentina , Sanguinetti Elena , Zanoni Simone , Iozzo Patricia , Saccomanni Giuseppe , Manera Clementina , Salvadori Piero A.
Published: January 2021

We successfully radiolabelled a novel prospective cannabinoid type 2 receptor ligand with 18F and tested its biodistribution in animal models by positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) imaging. The radiolabelling process was conducted on an alkyl mesylate fragment of the main naphthyridine core, using highly efficient microfluidic technology. No preliminary protection was needed, and the product was purified by semi-prep HPLC and SPE formulation, allowing the desired diastereomeric mixture to be obtained in 29 % radiochemical yield and > 95 % radiochemically pure. SOD1G93A mice were used as model of overexpression of CB2 receptors; PET imaging revealed a significant increase of the tracer distribution volume in the brain of symptomatic subjects compared with the asymptomatic ones.
Drought resistance in Harumi tangor seedlings grafted onto different rootstocks
Authors: Dong Tiantian , Xi Lijuan , Xiong Bo , Qiu Xia , Huang Shengjia , Xu Wenxin , Wang Jiaqi , Wang Bozhi , Yao Yuan , Duan Changwen , Tang Xiaoyu , Sun Guochao , Wang Xun , Deng Honghong , Wang Zhihui
Published: January 2021

In this study we analysed the influence of drought stress on the leaf morphological characteristics, osmotic adjustment substances, antioxidant enzymes, and resistance-related photosynthetic physiological indices of Harumi tangor plants grafted onto Poncirus trifoliata (Pt), Citrus junos (Cj), and Citrus tangerine (Ct). The leaf relative water content and leaf area of the three rootstocks decreased with increasing drought stress, with the smallest decrease in Cj. The relative conductivity and malondialdehyde content increased with increasing drought stress. Proline, total soluble sugar, soluble protein, and activities of superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, and catalase increased with drought stress but decreased under severe drought stress, with Cj exhibiting the greatest increase in enzyme activity. The net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, and chlorophyll a and b content were all lower than those of the control, whereas intercellular CO2 concentration increased with increasing drought stress. The initial fluorescence and maximal quantum yield of PSII were approximately equal for all rootstocks but increased with increasing drought stress severity. The combined analysis of physiological indicators, membership function, and principal components indicated that the drought resistance of grafted H. tangor decreased in the order Cj > Ct > Pt.
Moisture content variation of ground vegetation fuels in boreal mesic and sub-xeric mineral soil forests in Finland
Authors: Lindberg Henrik , Aakala Tuomas , Vanha-Majamaa Ilkka
Published: January 2021

Forest fire risk in Finland is estimated with the Finnish Forest Fire Index (FFI), which predicts the fuel moisture content (FMC) of the forest floor. We studied the FMC variation of four typical ground vegetation fuels, Pleurozium schreberi, Hylocomium splendens, Dicranum spp., and Cladonia spp., and raw humus in mature and recently clear-cut stands. Of these, six were sub-xeric Pinus sylvestris stands, and six mesic Picea abies stands. We analysed the ability of the FFI to predict FMC and compared it with the widely applied Canadian Fire Weather Index (FWI). We found that in addition to stand characteristics, ground layer FMC was highly dependent on the species so that Dicranum was the moistest, and Cladonia the driest. In the humus layer, the differences among species were small. Overall, the FWI was a slightly better predictor of FMC than the FFI. While the FFI generally predicted ground layer FMC well, the shape of the relationship varied among the four species. The use of auxiliary variables thus has potential in improving predictions of ignitions and forest fire risk. Knowledge of FMC variation could also benefit planning and timing of prescribed burns.
Impact of operator experience and volume on outcomes after complete repair for tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Jiang Xianchao , Peng Bo , Liu Jinyang , Zhang Heng , Li Shoujun , Yan Jun , Wang Qiang
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of individual operator experience on outcomes after complete repair for tetralogy of Fallot.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study. Consecutive patients who underwent TOF repair at a single institution were included and compared according to whether the primary operator was an experienced, high-volume operator (defined as an operator who performed at least 20 surgical procedures for congenital heart disease defined as complex by the Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery classification per year for at least 3 consecutive years). The primary outcome was defined as a composite of death, or reintervention, or significant annular peak gradient, or significant pulmonary regurgitation. Multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional-hazards model analyses were used to assess the relationships between operator experience and outcomes.

RESULTS

From January 2012 to December 2017, a total of 1760 patients with primary diagnosis of TOF underwent TOF repair by 37 operators. Of these, 5 operators (13.5%) were considered experienced, and 32 (86.5%) were considered less experienced. Complete follow-up data were available for 1728 complete repair for TOF patients with a median follow-up duration of 49 months; in 611 patients (35.4%), the surgery was performed by experienced operators, and in 1117 patients (64.6%), the surgery was performed by less experienced operators. Adjusted risks for the primary outcome and significant pulmonary regurgitation were lower for patients who were treated by experienced operators, both at discharge [adjusted odds ratio 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50–0.90; adjusted odds ratio 0.54, 95% CI 0.37–0.78, respectively] and at follow-up (adjusted hazard ratio 0.82, 95% CI 0.68–0.97; adjusted hazard ratio 0.70, 95% CI 0.56–0.87, respectively). The trend for the primary outcome during follow-up remained unchanged, even in most subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased surgeon experience is associated with improved risk-adjusted outcomes. These results have potentially important implications for individual training, quality improvement and hospital programmes in the context of complete repair for TOF.

Registration Number

http://www.chictr.org.cn number, ChiCTR2000033234.
Long-term outcomes in young patients with atrioventricular block of unknown aetiology
Authors: Dideriksen Johnni Resdal , Christiansen Morten K , Johansen Jens B , Nielsen Jens C , Bundgaard Henning , Jensen Henrik K
Published: January 2021

Aims

Atrioventricular block (AVB) of unknown aetiology is rare in the young, and outcome in these patients is unknown. We aimed to assess long-term morbidity and mortality in young patients with AVB of unknown aetiology.

Methods and results

We identified all Danish patients younger than 50 years receiving a first pacemaker due to AVB between January 1996 and December 2015. By reviewing medical records, we included patients with AVB of unknown aetiology. A matched control cohort was established. Follow-up was performed using national registries. The primary outcome was a composite endpoint consisting of death, heart failure hospitalization, ventricular tachyarrhythmia, and cardiac arrest with successful resuscitation. We included 517 patients, and 5170 controls. Median age at first pacemaker implantation was 41.3 years [interquartile range (IQR) 32.7–46.2 years]. After a median follow-up of 9.8 years (IQR 5.7–14.5 years), the primary endpoint had occurred in 14.9% of patients and 3.2% of controls [hazard ratio (HR) 3.8; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.9–5.1; P < 0.001]. Patients with persistent AVB at time of diagnosis had a higher risk of the primary endpoint (HR 10.6; 95% CI 5.7–20.0; P < 0.001), and risk was highest early in the follow-up period (HR 6.8; 95% CI 4.6–10.0; P < 0.001, during 0–5 years of follow-up).

Conclusion

Atrioventricular block of unknown aetiology presenting before the age of 50 years and treated with pacemaker implantation was associated with a three- to four-fold higher rate of the composite endpoint of death or hospitalization for heart failure, ventricular tachyarrhythmia, or cardiac arrest with successful resuscitation. Patients with persistent AVB were at higher risk. These findings warrant improved follow-up strategies for young patients with AVB of unknown aetiology.
Transcriptome analysis implicates secondary metabolite production, redox reactions, and programmed cell death during allorecognition inCryphonectria parasitica
Authors: Belov Anatoly A , Witte Thomas E , Overy David P , Smith Myron L
Published: January 2021

The underlying molecular mechanisms of programmed cell death associated with fungal allorecognition, a form of innate immunity, remain largely unknown. In this study, transcriptome analysis was used to infer mechanisms activated during barrage formation in vic3-incompatible strains of Cryphonectria parasitica, the chestnut blight fungus. Pronounced differential expression occurred in barraging strains of genes involved in mating pheromone (mf2-1, mf2-2), secondary metabolite production, detoxification (including oxidative stress), apoptosis-related, RNA interference, and HET-domain genes. Evidence for secondary metabolite production and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation is supported through UPLC-HRMS analysis and cytological staining, respectively. Differential expression of mating-related genes and HET-domain genes was further examined by RT-qPCR of incompatible interactions involving each of the six vegetative incompatibility (vic) loci in C. parasitica and revealed distinct recognition process networks. We infer that vegetative incompatibility in C. parasitica activates defence reactions that involve secondary metabolism, resulting in increased toxicity of the extra- and intracellular environment. Accumulation of ROS (and other potential toxins) may result in detoxification failure and activation of apoptosis, sporulation, and the expression of associated pheromone genes. The incompatible reaction leaves abundant traces of a process-specific metabolome as conidiation is initiated.
De novoassembly of a chromosome-scale reference genome for the northern flickerColaptes auratus
Authors: Hruska Jack P , Manthey Joseph D
Published: January 2021

The northern flicker, Colaptes auratus, is a widely distributed North American woodpecker and a long-standing focal species for the study of ecology, behavior, phenotypic differentiation, and hybridization. We present here a highly contiguous de novo genome assembly of C. auratus, the first such assembly for the species and the first published chromosome-level assembly for woodpeckers (Picidae). The assembly was generated using a combination of short-read Chromium 10× and long-read PacBio sequencing, and further scaffolded with chromatin conformation capture (Hi-C) reads. The resulting genome assembly is 1.378 Gb in size, with a scaffold N50 of 11  and a scaffold L50 of 43.948 Mb. This assembly contains 87.4–91.7% of genes present across four sets of universal single-copy orthologs found in tetrapods and birds. We annotated the assembly both for genes and repetitive content, identifying 18,745 genes and a prevalence of ∼28.0% repetitive elements. Lastly, we used fourfold degenerate sites from neutrally evolving genes to estimate a mutation rate for C. auratus, which we estimated to be 4.007 × 10−9 substitutions/site/year, about 1.5× times faster than an earlier mutation rate estimate of the family. The highly contiguous assembly and annotations we report will serve as a resource for future studies on the genomics of C. auratus and comparative evolution of woodpeckers.