bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral and maxillofacial surgery and dental rehabilitation under sedation and general anesthesia
Authors: Yilmaz Utku Nezih
Published: January 2020

Aim: The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze dental procedures performed under general anesthesia (GA) or deep sedation at Dicle University Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from May 2013 to May 2018.

Methodology: This study included 182 patients treated under GA and sedation from May 2013 to May 2018. The records of these cases were reviewed retrospectively in terms of patient demographic characteristics, medical history, dental procedures, and treatment duration. Children and adults were compared in terms of general anesthesia (GA) and deep sedation (SD).

Results: Of 182 patients (age range: 1–61 years), 63 were had an American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) status of I (completely healthy) and 119 were of ASA II status (mild systemic disease). A total of 143 patients (60 children and 83 adults) underwent GA, while 39 patients (18 children and 21 adults) underwent deep sedation. The mean duration of the procedures performed under GA and deep sedation was 75 and 40 min, respectively. Following the procedure, 103 patients were discharged on the same day, whereas 78 patients required postoperative care and were discharged on the following day. The rnumber of patients exposed to GA and SD were 143 and 39, respectively. The number of child patients exposed to GA waas 60, while that of adults was 83.

Conclusions: The frequency of dental rehabilitation under GA or sedation is increasing. Patients who cannot undergo dental procedures under local anesthesia can be treated under preferably GA, as long as the indications, patient characteristics, and anesthesia plan are carefully considered. Data suggest that adults are more suitable for GA than children. However, due to the risks associated with GA, anesthetic procedures should only be performed by experienced anesthetists under operating room conditions.

 

How to cite this article: Yılmaz UN. Oral and maxillofacial surgery and dental rehabilitation under sedation and general anesthesia. Int Dent Res 2019;9(3):111-8.

 

Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
Protective effect of Melatonin and Ganoderma lucidum against the negative effects of extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields in the periodontal tissues
Authors: Gül Mehmet , Yavaş Mehmet Cihan , Dündar Serkan
Published: January 2020

Aim:The purpose of this study was to determine whether extremely low frequency electric and magnetic field (ELF-EMF) had any detrimental effects on periodontal tissue and to investigate, histologically and immunohistochemically whether melatonin (MLT) and Ganoderma lucidum (GL) had a protective role against these detrimental effects.

Methodology:A total of 56 adults, male Wistar Albino rats were used in this study. Rats were divided into 7 equal groups and exposed to ELF-EMF, which was produced by a high voltage source, 8 hours / day for 26 days. GL (20 mg / kg / day) and MLT (10 mg / kg / day) were administered by the oral gavage and intraperitoneal method.

Results: Fibrous degeneration in the periodontal membrane, inflammatory cell infiltration, connective tissue fiber organization, dilation, and hemorrhage in the blood vessels changes were determined in the periodontal tissue of the rats in groups I and IV. A statistically significant difference was determined in the groups treated with MLT and GL (p<0.05).

Conclusions: It has been determined that ELF-EMF exposure causes histological changes in the periodontal tissue of rats and that MLT and GL may protect against these effects.

 

How to cite this article: Gül M, Yavaş MC, Dündar S. Protective effect of Melatonin and Ganoderma lucidum against the negative effects of extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields in the periodontal tissues. Int Dent Res 2019;9(3):119-26.

 

Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
The maxillary expansion procedures, the types, and the root resorption analysis methods
Authors: Topal Refika , Gündüz Arslan Seher
Published: January 2020

Transversal constriction of the maxilla is a common problem and may occur due to many reasons.The maxillary expansion procedures can be classified as rapid maxillary expansion (RME), semi-rapid maxillary expansion (SRME), and slow maxillary expansion (SME). In orthodontic treatment prosodure, it has been evaluated that it causes root resorption especially in the support teeth in many apparatus used for orthodontic treatment and in the expansion apparatus used in the treatment of transverse direction of maxilla. In this review, we aimed to evaluate maxiller expansion protocols and the methods of examining resorption in support teeth.

 

How to cite this article: Topal R, Gündüz Arslan S. The maxillary expansion procedures, the types, and the root resorption analysis methods. Int Dent Res 2019;9(3):145-51.

 

Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
La inteligencia artificial
Authors: Lope Salvador Víctor , Mamaqi Xhevrie , Vidal Bordes Javier
Published: January 2020

La datificación creciente de la vida contemporánea en combinación con la inteligencia artificial supone en la práctica la construcción de una nueva realidad que se viene calificando como digital. El presente trabajo explora, a partir del reconocimiento y definición del nuevo paradigma, las siguientes cuestiones: en primer lugar, la necesidad de catalogar las nuevas competencias y habilidades para profesiones emergentes en la economía, la empresa y la comunicación; en segundo lugar, el reconocimiento de una oportunidad histórica para la necesaria innovación teórica y metodológica en Ciencias Sociales y en Humanidades y, en tercer lugar, la aplicación de la inteligencia artificial para la mejora de la calidad en las publicaciones científicas. Estos tres asuntos resultan ser nucleares a juicio de los autores en la medida en que los tres inciden en la necesaria renovación en la formación de las personas que van a tener que gestionar datos de todo tipo que afectan a la los modos de vida de todos los individuos. Por ello, este trabajo, tras detectar las carencias en los sistemas reglados de formación, plantea las oportunidades que el nuevo paradigma digital ofrece en lo teórico y en el terreno de la publicación científica para encarar con nuevas herramientas intelectuales y nuevos métodos los retos ineludibles de la nueva situación.
Influencia de los medios de comunicación en la conversación política en Twitter
Authors: Casero-Ripollés Andreu
Published: January 2020

Tradicionalmente, los medios de comunicación (periódicos, cadenas de televisión, radio y agencias de noticias) han tenido una gran influencia en la sociedad, pero su papel está cambiando ante la aparición del entorno digital. Aunque sabemos mucho sobre cómo medir la influencia digital, todavía tenemos poca evidencia de cómo se ejerce en los medios sociales. Para revertir este déficit, se utilizan grandes técnicas de datos en una muestra de 127,3 millones de tweets para conocer cuáles fueron los más influyentes en el debate político sobre Twitter en España. A través de una metodología basada en el aprendizaje automático y el análisis de redes sociales, se identifican los medios de comunicación más influyentes en función de su naturaleza, tipo, posición ideológica percibida y cobertura territorial. Para ello se utilizan tres indicadores de influencia digital: actividad, popularidad y autoridad. Los resultados indican que el ejercicio de influencia sobre Twitter dentro del sistema de medios se está reconfigurando en profundidad. Asimismo, los datos revelan la incidencia de la posición ideológica percibida de los medios de comunicación, cuando se trata de tener más o menos centralidad en la red y poder influir en las interacciones en Twitter. Finalmente, aunque los medios de comunicación registran altos valores de inactividad y popularidad, generalmente obtienen valores intermedios o bajos de autoridad. Esta falta de autoridad cuestiona el poder de los medios de comunicación para influir efectivamente en el debate político en Twitter.
A Procedure for Agrobacterium tumefaciens Mediated Genetic Transformation of Sweet Potato
Authors: Michael Patrick S.
Published: January 2020

Many sweet potato plants have been successfully transformed but the transgenic plants regenerated, however, have been limited to a few genotypes. Reported in this paper is a procedure in which several explants of three sweet potato genotypes from Papua New Guinea (PNG) were used to transform and regenerate transgenic plants. To achieve stable transformation, an efficient shoot regeneration system for different explants was developed. The shoot regeneration protocol developed enabled for a reproducible stable transformation mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain 1065. The plasmid pVDH65 contains the npt II gene for kanamycin (km) resistance, hpt gene for hygromycin resistance and Gus-intron reporter gene (GUS) for β-glucuronidase. Explants inoculated with the bacterial strain were co-cultured for 3, 5 and 7 days (d) in the dark on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium without growth hormones. After co-cultivation, the explants were washed in liquid MS medium containing 500 mg L-1 cefotaxime, rinsed in sterile, deionised water for 10 mins and cultured on km selection medium containing 100 mg L-1 km followed by transfer of explants to 125 mg L-1 km after 14 d of culture. The km-resistant shoots selected on the former km concentration were transferred to the latter for double selection. Km-resistant shoots obtained at 125 mg L-1 were rooted on MS based medium also containing 0.008 mg L-1 IAA, 0.03 mg L-1 kinetin and 0.001 mg L-1 folic acid. This double selection method led to effective elimination of escapes (up to 75%) and successful recovery of transgenic plants from stem explants at more than 25%, leaf discs 10% and petioles 13.3% of each sweet potato cultivar. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of the three km-resistant and GUS-positive plants revealed the presence of the expected fragment for npt II. This is the first report of successfully transforming sweet potato plants with bacterial strain 1065 and selection of transgenic plants at km concentrations higher than 100 mg L-1.
Analysis of Effectiveness of Amnesty Program as a Response Tool in Containment of the Impact of “Cult Related” Activities in Niger Delta Region
Authors: Nwaogu Ngozi Rodney , Weli Vincent , Mbee Mbee Daniel
Published: January 2020

Background of Study: Cult related activities such as inter and intra cult clashes have been prevalent in communities in Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. The clashes which are violent in nature are carried out by youths who belong to one cult group or the other. The clashes occur when members of a cult group attack members of another or other cult groups or invade a community in order to take control of an area and the proceeds accruing from crude oil exploitation and exploration by multi- national oil companies. Among the major cult groups perpetrating the violent acts include Deybam, Deywell, Iceland and Greenland. Due to the violent clashes many lives have been lost, properties destroyed, women raped, residents displaced, houses burnt and residents kidnapped/abducted. These affected socio-economic activities and livelihood means of the people. 

Materials and Methods: This research analyzes the effectiveness of amnesty program as a response tool in mitigating cult related activities in Niger Delta region. Specifically, the study examines the magnitude of cult impact, relationship between frequency of cult attacks and fatalities, and examines the impact of cult activities before and after the amnesty. Adopting Cross- sectional research resign and using data chiefly collected from Nigerian Police, a total of 36 communities were purposively selected from 2 States in Niger Delta where amnesty was offered in 2016. The data were subjected to Pearson’s correlation and T-test statistical analysis.

Results: Pearson’s correlation showed that there was a positive significant relationship between cult attacks and fatalities over a ten year period, with r = 0.83 at 99% probability level. The Student’s t-test showed a statistically significant difference on cult attacks before and after amnesty with t-cal of 2.55> t-tab of 2.01 at 95% probability level. The t-test also showed a statistically significant difference on cult fatalities before and after amnesty with t-cal of 2.41> t- tab of 2.01 at 95% probability level. Findings further revealed that mean values of cult attacks (3.20) and fatalities (2.70) after the amnesty were greater than mean values of cult attacks (2.13) and fatalities (1.37) before the amnesty.

Conclusion: This showed that despite the amnesty, cult impact was still high in the study area and it was concluded that administration of amnesty is not an effective response tool to mitigation and containment of cult related activities in Niger Delta region, owing to its poor implementation and the desire to join cult groups by many youths who felt that joining the cult group will accord them protection and power over others. It is recommended that government should involve the local communities in designing an intervention program for youths.
Stability Analysis in a Mathematical Model of Corruption in Kenya
Authors: Nathan O. M. , Jackob K. O.
Published: January 2020

The term corruption refers to the process that involves the abuse of a public trust or office for some private benet. Corruption becomes a threat to national development and growth especially when there is no political will to fight it. Prevention and disengagement initiatives are part of EACC strategies used to fight corruption. Prevention strategies aim to stop or discourage citizens from engaging in corruption. Disengagement strategies attempt to reform corrupt individuals and to reclaim the stolen resources back to the public kitty. We describe prevention and disengagement strategies mathematically using an epidemiological compartment model. The prevention and disengagement strategies are modeled using model parameters. The population at risk of adopting corrupt ideology was divided into three compartments: S(t) is the susceptible class, C(t) is the Corrupted class, and M(t) is the corrupt political/sympathersizer class. The model exhibits a threshold dynamics characterised by the basic reproduction number R0. When R0 < 1 the system has a unique equilibrium point that is asymptotically stable. For R0 > 1, the system has additional equilibrium point known as endemic, which is globally asymptotically stable. These results are established by applying lyapunov functions and the LaSalles invariance principle. Based on our model we assess strategies to counter corruption vice.
Increased muscle tone and contracture late after ischemic stroke
Authors: Persson Carina U. , Holmegaard Lukas , Redfors Petra , Jern Christina , Blomstrand Christian , Jood Katarina
Published: January 2020

Background

Systematic studies on increased muscle tone and spasticity late after ischemic stroke, without any selection, are limited. Therefore, we aimed to determine the prevalence of increased muscle tone, classical spasticity and contracture and predictors of increased muscle tone seven years after stroke.

Methods

Consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke <70 years of age (n = 411) were recruited to the Sahlgrenska Academy Study on Ischemic Stroke. Symptoms at index stroke were assessed using the Scandinavian Stroke Scale. Seven years after stroke, survivors (n = 358) were invited for follow‐up assessments, of whom 292 agreed to participate and 288 contributed data. Muscle tone according to the Modified Ashworth scale, classical spasticity, and contracture was assessed by a neurologist. The associations between increased muscle tone and characteristics at index stroke and recurrent strokes during follow‐up were investigated using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Increased muscle tone was recognized in 99 participants (34%): 94 (33%) in the upper limbs, and 72 (25%) in the lower limbs. Classical spasticity was found in 51 participants (18%) and contracture in 26 (9%). Age (odds ratio [OR] 1.03 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.06]), arm paresis (OR 1.76 [95% CI 1.40–2.2]), aphasia (OR 1.68 [95% CI 1.12–2.51]), and facial palsy (OR 2.12 [95% CI 1.10–4.07]) were independent predictors of increased muscle tone.

Conclusions

One‐third of patients with ischemic stroke before 70 years of age showed increased muscle tone at 7‐year follow‐up. Half of them also had classical spasticity. Age, arm paresis, aphasia, and facial palsy at index stroke were predictors of increased muscle tone poststroke.
FOLFOX treatment response prediction in metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer patients via machine learning algorithms
Authors: Lu Wei , Fu Dongliang , Kong Xiangxing , Huang Zhiheng , Hwang Maxwell , Zhu Yingshuang , Chen Liubo , Jiang Kai , Li Xinlin , Wu Yihua , Li Jun , Yuan Ying , Ding Kefeng
Published: January 2020

Early identification of metastatic or recurrent colorectal cancer (CRC) patients who will be sensitive to FOLFOX (5‐FU, leucovorin and oxaliplatin) therapy is very important. We performed microarray meta‐analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between FOLFOX responders and nonresponders in metastatic or recurrent CRC patients, and found that the expression levels of WASHC4, HELZ, ERN1, RPS6KB1, and APPBP2 were downregulated, while the expression levels of IRF7, EML3, LYPLA2, DRAP1, RNH1, PKP3, TSPAN17, LSS, MLKL, PPP1R7, GCDH, C19ORF24, and CCDC124 were upregulated in FOLFOX responders compared with nonresponders. Subsequent functional annotation showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in autophagy, ErbB signaling pathway, mitophagy, endocytosis, FoxO signaling pathway, apoptosis, and antifolate resistance pathways. Based on those candidate genes, several machine learning algorithms were applied to the training set, then performances of models were assessed via the cross validation method. Candidate models with the best tuning parameters were applied to the test set and the final model showed satisfactory performance. In addition, we also reported that MLKL and CCDC124 gene expression were independent prognostic factors for metastatic CRC patients undergoing FOLFOX therapy.
Overland runoff erosion dynamics on steep slopes with forages under field simulated rainfall and inflow
Authors: Li Changjia , Pan Chengzhong
Published: January 2020

Although numerous studies have acknowledged that vegetation can reduce erosion, few process‐based studies have examined how vegetation cover affect runoff hydraulics and erosion processes. We present field observations of overland flow hydraulics using rainfall simulations in a typical semiarid area in China. Field plots (5 × 2 m2) were constructed on a loess hillslope (25°), including bare soil plot as control and three plots with planted forage species as treatments—Astragalus adsurgens, Medicago sativa and Cosmos bipinnatus. Both simulated rainfall and simulated rainfall + inflow were applied. Forages reduced soil loss by 55–85% and decreased overland flow rate by 12–37%. Forages significantly increased flow hydraulic resistance expressed by Darcy–Weisbach friction factor by 188–202% and expressed by Manning's friction factor by 66–75%; and decreased overland flow velocity by 28–30%. The upslope inflow significantly increased overland flow velocity by 67% and stream power by 449%, resulting in increased sediment yield rate by 108%. Erosion rate exhibited a significant linear relationship with stream power. M. sativa exhibited the best in reducing soil loss which probably resulted from its role in reducing stream power. Forages on the downslope performed better at reducing sediment yield than upslope due to decreased rill formation and stream power. The findings contribute to an improved understanding of using vegetation to control water and soil loss and land degradation in semiarid environments.
Exploring the effect of hydrological connectivity and soil burn severity on sediment yield after wildfire and mulching
Authors: Fernández Cristina , Fernández‐Alonso José Ma , Vega José A.
Published: January 2020

Soil erosion can potentially threaten different resources inside and outside of burned areas, and the risk of water becoming contaminated with sediment may be particularly severe. Various postfire actions, such as applying straw mulch, have been carried out in northwestern Spain in recent years with the aim of mitigating the risk of soil erosion. Nonetheless, because of the short interval between summer wildfire and autumn rains, careful selection and prioritization of the areas to be treated is crucial. Changes in hydrological connectivity could be measured and used as a criterion for selecting such areas. However, studies addressing changes in hydrological connectivity as a consequence of forest fires are scarce. In the present study, we assessed the effects of fire and postfire helimulching on the hydrological connectivity and sediment loads in a forest catchment burned by a wildfire in August 2016. Sediment yields were recorded in 20 plots (180 m2). Hydrological connectivity was computed with a version of the Borselli index and two alternative weighting factors: the C factor from the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation and a factor based on field surveys of soil burn severity. The effect of mulching was also considered. The results indicate that the version of the Borselli index based on field measurements of soil burn severity best reflects the susceptibility to postfire sediment delivery. Moreover, this method was also suitable for evaluating the effect of mulching on soil erosion. The study findings may help forest managers to plan postfire actions.
Future range dynamics of the red alga Capreolia implexa in native and invaded regions: contrasting predictions from species distribution models versus physiological knowledge
Authors: Laeseke Philipp , Martínez Brezo , Mansilla Andrés , Bischof Kai
Published: January 2020

Correlative species distribution modelling is a widely used method to predict potential species ranges but can suffer from limitations in integrating species’ fundamental niches. Therefore, they might underestimate suitable ranges, but including physiological information can improve accuracy of predictions and help identify mechanisms of e.g. range limitation. However, approaches using both, results from correlative as well as physiological investigations are rare, especially in research on seaweeds. Here, we provide results from both approaches to predict the suitable habitat range of Capreolia implexa (Rhodophyta) in its native range (Australia and New Zealand) and invaded range (Chile) under present and future climate scenarios (year 2100, rcp 2.6 and rcp 8.5). We used the Maxent modelling technique and physiological knowledge from a temperature tolerance experiment (2–20 °C) for thermal niche estimation. Results from both approaches suggest larger suitable habitat ranges under present day conditions for both regions than currently occupied. Abiotic range limitation in the native range led to underestimation of the suitable temperature range by Maxent (here lower temperature limit = 8.3 °C). Predictions based on the laboratory temperature tolerance experiment suggest additional suitable habitat in colder regions (here lower temperature limit = 6.6 ± 0.4 °C). Under future climate conditions, both native and invaded ranges should shift southward, which will lead to an overall loss of suitable habitat in the native range. Like that, rcp 8.5 conditions should reduce the native range to 50% of the present-day extent. We demonstrate the limitation of correlative SDM modelling for species that live on continental margins and that physiological experiments can help to identify species’ niches beyond correlative analyses, providing valuable information for range projections. Furthermore, we provide valuable insights relevant for both invasion management and conservation.

Graphic abstract
Labour market transitions, shocks and institutions in turbulent times: a cross-country analysis
Authors: Bachmann Ronald , Felder Rahel
Published: January 2020

This paper analyses the impact of the business cycle on labour market dynamics in EU member states and the US during the first decade of the 21st century. Using unique measures of labour market flows constructed from worker-level micro data, we examine to what extent macro shocks were transmitted to national labour markets. We apply the approach by Blanchard and Wolfers (Econ J 110(462):1–33, 2000) to analyse the role of the interaction of macroeconomic shocks and labour market institutions for worker transitions in order to explain cross-country differences in labour market reactions in a period including the Great Recession. Our results suggest a significant influence of trade unions in channelling macroeconomic shocks. Specifically, union density moderates these impacts over the business cycle, i.e. countries with stronger trade unions experience weaker reactions of the unemployment rate and of worker transitions.
Antihypertensive constituents in Sanoshashinto
Authors: Wu Jianbo , Nakashima Souichi , Shigyo Marina , Yamasaki Mutsumi , Ikuno Sumire , Morikawa Aoi , Takegami Shigehiko , Nakamura Seikou , Konishi Atsuko , Kitade Tatsuya , Matsuda Hisashi
Published: January 2020

It has been reported that Sanoshashinto (SanHuangXieXinTang, 三黃瀉心湯), which is composed of Rhei Rhizoma, Scutellariae Radix, and Coptidis Rhizoma, exhibits vasorelaxant effects in vitro and lowers blood pressure of patients. Based on this discovery, in this study, a mixture containing those three materials and combinations of them were extracted with methanol, and the extracts were fractionated into different parts. Effects of all extracts and fractions on high concentration of potassium chloride (High K+)- or noradrenaline (NA)-induced contractions of isolated rat aortic rings or helical strips were examined. Qualitative and quantitative HPLC analyses of the extracts and the fractions revealed that the contents of baicalin and berberine in Sanoshashinto methanol extract (SHXXTM) were higher than those of the other constituents. All pharmacological and HPLC data were analyzed by principal component analysis (PCA) software and the results indicated that baicalin, berberine, palmatine, baicalein, and wogonoside contributed significantly to the pharmacological activity. Furthermore, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) that were orally given SHXXTM or a baicalin–berberine combination showed significantly reduced increase in the rate of systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared to the control group. These findings suggested that Sanoshashinto has significant vasorelaxant effects in vitro and antihypertensive effects in vivo, and baicalin and berberine, which were the principal constituents of Scutellariae Radix and Coptidis Rhizoma, were the main antihypertensive constituents in Sanoshashinto. It was speculated that baicalin and berberine produced vasorelaxant effects by activating the NO/cGMP pathway and that the BKCa channel and the DAG/PKC/CPI-17 pathway were also involved.
Determinacy and Indeterminacy, Being and Non-Being in the Fragments of Parmenides
Authors: Mourelatos Alexander P. D.
Published: January 2020

The main argument in Parmenides’ didactic poem begins with these remarks by the unnamed goddess who delivers the revelation (B2 in Diels-KranzDie Fragmente der Vorsokratiker):

Come now and I shall tell you, and you listen to the account and carry it forth, which routes of inquiry (ơδοί…διζησιος , B2.2) alone are for knowing: the one (μέν, B2.3), that (…) is and that it is not possible (for …) not to be ὅπως ἔστιν τε ϰαὶ ὼς οὐϰ ἔστι μὴ είναι, B2.3) is the course of Persuasion, for it attends truth; the other ἠδ; B2.5 that (…) is not and that it is right (for …) not to be (ὡς οὐϰ ἔστιυ τε ϰαὶ ὡς χρεών ἐστι μὴ εἶναι, B2.5) that one I mark for you as being a byway from which no tidings ever come (παναπευθέα ἔμμεν άταρπόυ, B2.6) For you could neither come to know (Υυοίμς, aorist, B2.7) the thing itself which is not (τό Υε μὴ έόυ), for it cannot be consummated (οὐ Υὰρ ἀνυστόυ), nor could you point it out (φράσαις, aorist, B2.8).
Aristotle on Empedocles Fr. 8
Authors: Owens Joseph
Published: January 2020

As is well enough known, the termphysisin EmpedoclesFr.8 (DK) is cited by Aristotle in theMetaphysics(Δ 4,1014b36-1015a3) as meaning theousiaof natural things, in the sense of the stable substance or form that is the terminus of generation (a10-11). This interpretation is rejected almost unanimously by commentators. The three or four attempts to defend it have not proved convincing. The case now seems officially closed. Yet there remain some loose ends. These are of the kind that would keep bothering television detectives and would cause enough loss of sleep to prompt a fresh investigation of a whole case. Is that procedure called for here?
The Contents of the Cave
Authors: Wilson J.R.S.
Published: January 2020

‘The similes of the Sun, Line, and Cave in the Republic remain a reproach to Platonic scholarship because there is no agreement about them, though they are meant to illustrate.’ So wrote A.S. Ferguson in 1934, and so he could write to-day. Four decades have produced at least twenty more substantial contributions to the debate, but no agreement. I shall not attempt to arbitrate between existing interpretations, nor shall I offer an account of the ‘simile of light’ as a whole. I shall confine my attention to a single point: the significance of the shadows in the cave, and of the objects which cast them. The suggestion I shall make seems an obvious one, but I have not found it in the literature. I hope to show at least that it deserves serious consideration.
How Marxism Is Analyzed: An Introduction
Authors: Ware Robert
Published: January 2020

What has come to be called ‘analytical Marxism’ is to be celebrated when properly understood. It is a phenomenon that has engaged some of the best people in philosophy, political science, economics, sociology, and other disciplines. In the last fifteen years there has been a blossoming of anaytic studies on Marx and on Marxism in the mainstreams of academic disciplines, with the first impetus coming from philosophers who had been working in the analytic tradition. During the previous sixty years of analytic philosophy virtually nothing was said about Marxism. It was not even considered worthy of philosophical attack. Bertrand Russell, who did write on Marxist topics, confined his considerations on Marx to popular texts. Karl Popper, who did take Marxism seriously philosophically, concentrated on criticisms which were in any case ignored by analytic philosophers.
Molecularly tagged genes and quantitative trait loci in cucumber with recommendations for QTL nomenclature
Authors: Wang Yuhui , Bo Kailiang , Gu Xingfang , Pan Junsong , Li Yuhong , Chen Jinfeng , Wen Changlong , Ren Zhonghai , Ren Huazhong , Chen Xuehao , Grumet Rebecca , Weng Yiqun
Published: January 2020

Cucumber, Cucumis sativus L. (2n = 2x = 14), is an important vegetable crop worldwide. It was the first specialty crop with a publicly available draft genome. Its relatively small, diploid genome, short life cycle, and self-compatible mating system offers advantages for genetic studies. In recent years, significant progress has been made in molecular mapping, and identification of genes and QTL responsible for key phenotypic traits, but a systematic review of the work is lacking. Here, we conducted an extensive literature review on mutants, genes and QTL that have been molecularly mapped or characterized in cucumber. We documented 81 simply inherited trait genes or major-effect QTL that have been cloned or fine mapped. For each gene, detailed information was compiled including chromosome locations, allelic variants and associated polymorphisms, predicted functions, and diagnostic markers that could be used for marker-assisted selection in cucumber breeding. We also documented 322 QTL for 42 quantitative traits, including 109 for disease resistances against seven pathogens. By alignment of these QTL on the latest version of cucumber draft genomes, consensus QTL across multiple studies were inferred, which provided insights into heritable correlations among different traits. Through collaborative efforts among public and private cucumber researchers, we identified 130 quantitative traits and developed a set of recommendations for QTL nomenclature in cucumber. This is the first attempt to systematically summarize, analyze and inventory cucumber mutants, cloned or mapped genes and QTL, which should be a useful resource for the cucurbit research community.
Genetic diversity in centipedegrass [Eremochloa ophiuroides (Munro) Hack.]
Authors: Li Jianjian , Guo Hailin , Zong Junqin , Chen Jingbo , Li Dandan , Liu Jianxiu
Published: January 2020

Genetic diversity is the heritable variation within and among populations, and in the context of this paper describes the heritable variation among the germplasm resources of centipedegrass. Centipedegrass is an important warm-season perennial C4 grass belonging to the Poaceae family in the subfamily Panicoideae and genus Eremochloa. It is the only species cultivated for turf among the eight species in Eremochloa. The center of origin for this species is southern to central China. Although centipedegrass is an excellent lawn grass and is most widely used in the southeastern United States, China has the largest reserve of centipedegrass germplasm in the world. Presently, the gene bank in China holds ~200 centipedegrass accessions collected from geographical regions that are diverse in terms of climate and elevation. This collection appears to have broad variability with regard to morphological and physiological characteristics. To efficiently develop new centipedegrass varieties and improve cultivated species by fully utilizing this variability, multiple approaches have been implemented in recent years to detect the extent of variation and to unravel the patterns of genetic diversity among centipedegrass collections. In this review, we briefly summarize research progress in investigating the diversity of centipedegrass using morphological, physiological, cytological, and molecular biological approaches, and present the current status of genomic studies in centipedegrass. Perspectives on future research on genetics and genomics and modern breeding of centipedegrass are also discussed.
Prevention of tuberculosis in macaques after intravenous BCG immunization
Authors: Darrah Patricia A. , Zeppa Joseph J. , Maiello Pauline , Hackney Joshua A. , Wadsworth Marc H. , Hughes Travis K. , Pokkali Supriya , Swanson Phillip A. , Grant Nicole L. , Rodgers Mark A. , Kamath Megha , Causgrove Chelsea M. , Laddy Dominick J. , Bonavia Aurelio , Casimiro Danilo , Lin Philana Ling , Klein Edwin , White Alexander G. , Scanga Charles A. , Shalek Alex K. , Roederer Mario , Flynn JoAnne L. , Seder Robert A.
Published: January 2020

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is the leading cause of death from infection worldwide1. The only available vaccine, BCG (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin), is given intradermally and has variable efficacy against pulmonary tuberculosis, the major cause of mortality and disease transmission1,2. Here we show that intravenous administration of BCG profoundly alters the protective outcome of Mtb challenge in non-human primates (Macaca mulatta). Compared with intradermal or aerosol delivery, intravenous immunization induced substantially more antigen-responsive CD4 and CD8 T cell responses in blood, spleen, bronchoalveolar lavage and lung lymph nodes. Moreover, intravenous immunization induced a high frequency of antigen-responsive T cells across all lung parenchymal tissues. Six months after BCG vaccination, macaques were challenged with virulent Mtb. Notably, nine out of ten macaques that received intravenous BCG vaccination were highly protected, with six macaques showing no detectable levels of infection, as determined by positron emission tomography–computed tomography imaging, mycobacterial growth, pathology and granuloma formation. The finding that intravenous BCG prevents or substantially limits Mtb infection in highly susceptible rhesus macaques has important implications for vaccine delivery and clinical development, and provides a model for defining immune correlates and mechanisms of vaccine-elicited protection against tuberculosis.
Formation mechanism and characterization of immiscible nanoporous binary Cu–Ag alloys with excellent surface-enhanced Raman scattering performance by chemical dealloying of glassy precursors
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Xiongjun , Li Rui , Li Zhibin , Wang Xianzhen , Wang Hui , Wu Yuan , Jiang Suihe , Lu Zhaoping
Published: January 2020

Immiscible nanoporous binary Cu–Ag (NPCA) alloys with customizable microstructures and excellent SERS performance have been developed by dealloying metallic glasses.
Preparation of a NiO/KNbO3 nanocomposite via a photodeposition method and its superior performance in photocatalytic N2 fixation
Authors: Xing Pingxing , Zhang Wenqian , Chen Lu , Dai Xiaoquan , Zhang Jiali , Zhao Leihong , He Yiming
Published: January 2020

A p-NiO/n-KNbO3 heterojunction photocatalyst was synthesized via a photodeposition method and for the first time applied in photocatalytic N2 fixation under simulated sunlight.
Multi-scale modeling of the polymer–filler interaction
Authors: Kempfer Kevin , Devémy Julien , Dequidt Alain , Couty Marc , Malfreyt Patrice
Published: January 2020

Realistic coarse-grained models are developed to investigate the properties ofcis-1,4-polybutadiene chains at the surface of the silica nanoparticle.
Asymmetric PdPtCu mesoporous hemispheres on nitrogen-functionalized graphene for methanol oxidation electrocatalysis
Authors: Sun Lizhi , Lv Hao , Xu Dongdong , Liu Ben
Published: January 2020

This work reports an easy solution-phase synthesis of asymmetric metallic mesoporous hemispheres on nitrogen-functionalized graphene for fuel cell electrooxidation.
Steroid Hormone Levels in Recipient Amniotic Fluid in Twin–Twin Transfusion Syndrome and Their Association with Preterm Delivery
Authors: Hoffman Mallory , Mann Lovepreet K. , Won Jong H. , Bergh Eric P. , Donepudi Roopali , Johnson Anthony , Moise Kenneth J. , Macpherson Cora , Thom Elizabeth , Mesiano Sam , Papanna Ramesha
Published: January 2020

Objective Preterm delivery following fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS) of twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is associated with severe perinatal morbidity and mortality. The role of steroid hormones in amniotic fluid (AF) after FLS remains unknown.

Study Design A prospective cohort study of consecutive case series of FLS for TTTS was performed from April 2012 to February 2017. Cases were divided into early (≤27 weeks) spontaneous preterm delivery (ED) and late delivery (LD; ≥34 weeks) following FLS and compared. AF supernatants were assessed for protein, estradiol, progesterone and cortisol levels (using the ELISA kit), and normalized to total protein levels to adjust for dilution.

Results A total of 294 consecutive cases of FLS for TTTS in monochorionic–diamniotic twins were performed during the study period. AF was available in 44 ED patients and 50 LD patients. On logistic regression, ED was associated with higher normalized progesterone levels (odds ratio [OR]: 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.41), lower normalized cortisol (OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.64–0.96), and higher estradiol levels (OR: 1.3; 95% CI: 1.03–1.63).

Conclusion Elevated AF normalized progesterone and estradiol, and lower normalized cortisol levels were associated with ED. This novel finding requires further exploration to establish the molecular mechanism operational in pregnancies complicated by TTTS to potentially prevent early preterm birth after fetal surgery.
Können Entscheider in Kliniken von Geldsanktionen freigestellt werden?
Authors: Weimer Tobias
Published: January 2020

Der sogenannte patientenferne Entscheider ist unter Compliance-Gesichtspunkten in den Fokus der Gerichte und ermittelnder Behörden geraten. Dabei geht es häufig um die Frage, ob Geschäftsführer und Vorstände von Kliniken für Organisationsmängel haftbar gemacht werden können, die im Vorfeld erkennbar waren und damit vermeidbar gewesen wären. Könnten die Verantwortlichen von vornherein von Geldsanktionen freigestellt werden?
Prospitalia Best Practice Award 2020: Impuls- und Ideengeber gesucht
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: January 2020

Die Prospitalia GmbH aus Ulm wird im kommenden Jahr den Best Practice Award für innovative Lösungen im Bereich Einkauf und Logistik im Krankenhaus bereits zum fünften Mal vergeben. Deren Vertragshäuser können sich mit ihren Lösungen noch bis zum 24. Februar bewerben.
MDK-Reformgesetz: Eine Reform der Reform tut not
Authors: Heeser Alexandra
Published: January 2020

Anfang Mai hat das Bundesgesundheitsministerium seinen Referentenentwurf für ein Gesetz für bessere und unabhängige Prüfungen vorgelegt, das MDK-Reformgesetz. Dieses sieht grundlegende organisatorische Veränderungen für die Medizinischen Dienste vor und soll die Abrechnungsprüfung im Krankenhaus neu regeln. Die Reform wurde beschlossen, die Reaktionen könnten unterschiedlicher nicht sein.
WGKT-Innovationspreis 2019: Johannes Kraus überzeugt mit Bachelorarbeit über nosokomiale Infektionen
Authors: Hohenberg Gregor
Published: January 2020

Die Förderung des akademischen Nachwuchses für die Krankenhaustechnik liegt der WGKT am Herzen. Daher lobt die WGKT einen Preis für hervorragende Bachelor- und Masterarbeiten auf dem Gebiet der Krankenhaustechnik aus. Der WGKT-Innovationspreis geht 2019 an die Technische Hochschule Ulm. Der Preisträger Johannes Knaus konnte mit seiner Bachelorarbeit über nosokomiale Infektionen überzeugen.
Post-Coronary Artery Bypass Medications in Dialysis Patients: Do We Need to Change Strategies?
Authors: Hu Yu-Ning , Luo Chwan-Yau , Tsai Meng-Ta , Lin Ting-Wei , Kan Chung-Dann , Roan Jun-Neng
Published: January 2020

Background Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is frequently performed in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) together with severe coronary artery disease, after which, patients with ESRD have higher surgical risk and poorer long-term outcomes. We report our experience in patients with ESRD who survived in CABG and identify predictors of long-term outcomes.

Methods We retrospectively investigated 93 consecutive patients with ESRD who survived to discharge after isolated CABG between January 2005 and December 2016 at our institution. Long-term outcomes, including all-cause mortality after discharge, readmission due to major adverse cardiac events, and reintervention, were evaluated. Predictors affecting long-term outcomes were also analyzed.

Results The rates of freedom from all-cause mortality after discharge in 1, 3, 5, and 10 years were 92.1, 81.3, 71.9, and 34.9%, respectively. The rates of freedom from readmission due to major adverse cardiac events in 1, 3, 5, and 10 years were 90.7, 79.1, 69.9, and 55.6%, respectively. The rates of freedom from reintervention in 1, 3, 5, and 10 years were 95.3, 86.5, 79.0, and 66.6%, respectively. Postoperative β-blocker and statin use significantly improved overall long-term survival (β-blocker, p = 0.013; statin, p = 0.009). After case–control matching, patients who received statins showed better long-term survival than those without statins. The comparison of long-term survival between patients with and without β-blockers showed no significant difference after matching.

Conclusions After CABG, dialysis patients who survived to discharge had acceptable long-term overall survival. Post-CABG statin use in dialysis patients is a predictor of better long-term survival.
A Cadaveric Study of the Juncturae Tendinum
Authors: Lakshmi Gaddam Vijaya , Michael Stelin Agnes
Published: January 2020

Introduction The superficial extensor tendons of the fingers are connected by juncturae tendinum (JT). JTs are of three types namely JT-1, JT-2, and JT-3. JT-3 are very thick with maximum occurrence in fourth intermetacarpal space (IMCS), where it is associated with agenesis of extensor digitorum communis to small finger (EDCs). Awareness of frequency and morphology of JT is essential in surgical repair of tendon injury.

Methods JTs were dissected in 80 free adult cadaveric upper limbs and 32 fetal upper limbs of 16 stillborn and embalmed fetuses present in the department. The pattern and frequency of JT was studied. Frequency of JT-3 in association with agenesis of EDCs was looked into. The length and width of JT were measured and analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc analysis.

Results JT-1 and JT-2 were commonly observed in the second and third IMCS, respectively. JT-3 had a maximum frequency in the fourth space and was observed in 78.37% of cases of agenesis of EDCs. A gradual increase in length and a decrease in the width of JT were observed from JT-1 to JT-2, JT-3r, and JT-3y.

Conclusion JTs are absent in the first IMCS and in 6.25% of second IMCS. The commonest pattern of distribution of JT in the second, third and fourth IMCS is JT-1, JT-2, and JT-3, respectively. JT-3 is the longest and thickest JT, and partially compensates for agenesis of EDCs. The structural resemblance to tendons enables JT-3 utilization for a tendon graft.
Histomorphometric Study of Axillary Lymph Nodes in Different Age Groups
Authors: A. Kafeel Hussain , S. Shaweez Fathima , Sathialakshmi V.
Published: January 2020

Background Although some age-related changes in lymph node histoarchitecture have been described, they are seldom taken into account in traditional depictions of lymph nodes. Recently introduced clinical procedures, such as intranodal vaccinations have demonstrated the need for an accurate knowledge of the degenerative processes of lymph nodes. It is thus deemed necessary to obtain a detailed insight into anatomical changes within the lymph node throughout life as age-related degeneration can have a strong impact on the outcome of these new therapeutic strategies.

Aim To study the size and shape of the lymph nodes and to establish the age-dependent histoarchitectural changes in the lymph nodes in different age groups.

Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in a total of 35 axillary lymph nodes. The adult axillary group of lymph nodes were from subjects aged between 18 and 70 years. The fetal lymph nodes were collected from 8 stillborn fetuses between 37 and 42 weeks. Thickness of the cortex and diameter of the germinal centers were measured using ocular and stage micrometer.

Results None of the fetal lymphocytic follicles showed evidence of a prominent germinal center. The germinal centers of young adults were not only more numerous but also larger in size when compared with the old. An age-related involution of the paracortical region was witnessed in the axillary lymph nodes. No evidence of lipomatous atrophy was encountered in any of the fetal lymph nodes. Interesting evidence of it was encountered in younger age groups. However, this was the most prominent feature in the older groups.