bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic oropharyngeal pain and medical nomadism in an Eagle’s syndrome patient: a case report
Authors: Boucher Yves , Mularski Agatha , Felizardo Rufino , Tankere Frédéric , Dieb Marc
Published: May 2022

Background

Elongation of the styloid process associated with oropharyngeal pain and dysphagia is known as Eagle’s syndrome, a condition whose pathophysiology is still a matter of debate. Given its low prevalence and complex symptomatology, this syndrome is often misdiagnosed, leading to chronic pain and medical nomadism.

Case summary

A 51-year-old woman of African origin with 3-year history of left-side oropharyngeal pain and worsening dysphagia consulted several health professionals. Medical and surgical treatments, including a sinus surgery and the extraction of three healthy teeth, did not improve her symptoms. Evaluation in an orofacial pain clinic revealed an asymmetrically elongated styloid process. Surgical shortening of the elongated styloid process provided complete pain relief and recovery of normal swallowing function.

Conclusion

Based on this case report, the pathophysiology of Eagle’s syndrome is discussed, and the need for specific follow-up in a subpopulation of patients with asymptomatic styloid process elongation is highlighted.
Genetic regulation and variation of expression of miRNA and mRNA transcripts in fetal muscle tissue in the context of sex, dam and variable fetal weight
Authors: Ponsuksili Siriluck , Murani Eduard , Hadlich Frieder , Perdomo-Sabogal Alvaro , Trakooljul Nares , Oster Michael , Reyer Henry , Wimmers Klaus
Published: May 2022

Background

Impaired skeletal muscle growth in utero can result in reduced birth weight and pathogenesis of intrauterine growth restriction. Fetal and placental growth is influenced by many factors including genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. In fact, the sex and genotype of the fetus itself, as well as the mother providing it with a suitable environment, influence the growth of the fetus. Hence, our goal was to decipher and elucidate the molecular pathways of developmental processes mediated by miRNAs and mRNAs in fetal muscle tissue in the context of sex, dam, and fetal weight. Therefore, we analyse the variation of miRNA and mRNA expression in relation to these factors. In addition, the coincidence of genetic regulation of these mRNAs and miRNAs, as revealed by expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analyses, with sex-, mother- and weight-associated expression was investigated.

Methods

A three-generation pig F2 population (n = 118) based on reciprocal crossing of German Landrace (DL) and Pietrain (Pi) was used. Genotype information and transcriptomic data (mRNA and miRNA) from longissimus dorsi muscle (LDM) of pig fetuses sampled at 63 days post-conception (dpc) were used for eQTL analyses.

Results

The transcript abundances of 13, 853, and 275 probe-sets were influenced by sex, dam and fetal weight at 63 dpc, respectively (FDR < 5%). Most of significant transcripts affected by sex were located on the sex chromosomes includingKDM6AandANOS1or autosomes includingANKS1B, LOC100155138and miR-153. The fetal muscle transcripts associated with fetal weight indicated clearer metabolic directions than maternally influenced fetal muscle transcripts. Moreover, coincidence of genetic regulation (eQTL) and variation in transcript abundance due to sex, dam and fetal weight were identified.

Conclusions

Integrating information on eQTL, sex-, dam- and weight-associated differential expression and QTL for fetal weight allowed us to identify molecular pathways and shed light on the basic biological processes associated with differential muscle development in males and females, with implications for adaptive fetal programming.
Impact of cerebral blood flow and amyloid load on SUVR bias
Authors: Heeman Fiona , Yaqub Maqsood , Hendriks Janine , van Berckel Bart N. M. , Collij Lyduine E. , Gray Katherine R. , Manber Richard , Wolz Robin , Garibotto Valentina , Wimberley Catriona , Ritchie Craig , Barkhof Frederik , Gispert Juan Domingo , Vállez García David , Lopes Alves Isadora , Lammertsma Adriaan A. ,   on behalf of the AMYPAD Consortium
Published: May 2022

Background

Despite its widespread use, the semi-quantitative standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) may be biased compared with the distribution volume ratio (DVR). This bias may be partially explained by changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and is likely to be also dependent on the extent of the underlying amyloid-β (Aβ) burden. This study aimed to compare SUVR with DVR and to evaluate the effects of underlying Aβ burden and CBF on bias in SUVR in mainly cognitively unimpaired participants. Participants were scanned according to a dual-time window protocol, with either [18F]flutemetamol (N = 90) or [18F]florbetaben (N = 31). The validated basisfunction-based implementation of the two-step simplified reference tissue model was used to derive DVR and R1 parametric images, and SUVR was calculated from 90 to 110 min post-injection, all with the cerebellar grey matter as reference tissue. First, linear regression and Bland–Altman analyses were used to compare (regional) SUVR with DVR. Then, generalized linear models were applied to evaluate whether (bias in) SUVR relative to DVR could be explained by R1 for the global cortical average (GCA), precuneus, posterior cingulate, and orbitofrontal region.

Results

Despite high correlations (GCA: R2 ≥ 0.85), large overestimation and proportional bias of SUVR relative to DVR was observed. Negative associations were observed between both SUVR or SUVRbias and R1, albeit non-significant.

Conclusion

The present findings demonstrate that bias in SUVR relative to DVR is strongly related to underlying Aβ burden. Furthermore, in a cohort consisting mainly of cognitively unimpaired individuals, the effect of relative CBF on bias in SUVR appears limited. EudraCT Number: 2018-002277-22, registered on: 25-06-2018.
Analysis of CCR2 splice variant expression patterns and functional properties
Authors: Park Hee-Kyung , Na Yun Hee , Nguyen Huong Thi , Nguyen Lan Phuong , Hurh Sunghoon , Seong Jae Young , Lee Cheol Soon , Ham Byung-Joo , Hwang Jong-Ik
Published: May 2022

Background

C–C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2), the main receptor for monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), is expressed on immune cells, including monocytes, macrophages, and activated T cells, and mediates cell migration toward MCP-1 in inflammation-related diseases. The CCR2 gene encodes two isoforms: CCR2A and CCR2B. The CCR2B open reading frame is localized in a single exon, similar to other chemokine receptors, and CCR2A and CCR2B feature different amino acid sequences in their C-terminal intracellular loops due to alternative splicing. Most biochemical studies on CCR2-related cellular responses in the immune system have focused on CCR2B, with few reports focused on CCR2A. Understanding the functional properties of CCR2A in cellular responses may elucidate the roles played by MCP-1 and CCR2 in pathophysiological responses.

Results

CCR2 gene expression analysis in several cell types revealed that most adherent cells only expressed CCR2A, whereas CCR2B expression was dominant in monocytic cells. The C-terminal Helix 8 region of CCR2A contains few basic amino acids, which may be unfavorable for cell surface localization, as confirmed with the HiBiT assay. CCR2B contains many C-terminal Ser/Thr residues, similar to other chemokine receptors, which may be phosphorylated by G protein–coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) to promote β-arrestin recruitment and subsequent endocytosis. By contrast, CCR2A contains few C-terminal Ser/Thr residues, which are unlikely to be phosphorylated by GRKs. CCR2A localized on the cell surface is resistant to internalization, despite the interaction between Gβ and GRKs induced by ligand binding with CCR2A. CCR2A induced cellular responses at a relatively higher degree than CCR2B, although both receptors mediated signaling events through Gαq and Gαi. HeLa cells lacking CCR2A showed slowed growth compared with parent cells, regardless of MCP-1 stimulation, and their chemotactic activity toward MCP-1, in addition to basal motility, was significantly impaired.

Conclusion

MCP-1 and CCR2 may play pivotal roles in cancer progression by recruiting macrophages into cancer tissue. This study demonstrates that CCR2A but not CCR2B is expressed in solid cancer–derived cells. CCR2A is resistant to internalization by β-arrestin due to a distinct C-terminal region from CCR2B, which enhances MCP-1-stimulated responses, indicating that CCR2A may play essential roles in solid cancer progression.
Lessons from past pandemics: a systematic review of evidence-based, cost-effective interventions to suppress COVID-19
Authors: Juneau Carl-Etienne , Pueyo Tomas , Bell Matt , Gee Genevieve , Collazzo Pablo , Potvin Louise
Published: May 2022

Background

In an unparalleled global response, during the COVID-19 pandemic, 90 countries asked 3.9 billion people to stay home. Yet other countries avoided lockdowns and focused on other strategies, like contact tracing. How effective and cost-effective are these strategies? We aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the evidence on past pandemic controls, with a focus on cost-effectiveness.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, MEDLINE (1946 to April week 2, 2020) and EMBASE (1974 to April 17, 2020) were searched using a range of terms related to pandemic control. Articles reporting on the effectiveness or cost-effectiveness of at least one intervention were included.

Results

We found 1653 papers; 62 were included. The effectiveness of hand-washing and face masks was supported by randomized trials. These measures were highly cost-effective. For other interventions, only observational and modelling studies were found. They suggested that (1) the most cost-effective interventions are swift contact tracing and case isolation, surveillance networks, protective equipment for healthcare workers, and early vaccination (when available); (2) home quarantines and stockpiling antivirals are less cost-effective; (3) social distancing measures like workplace and school closures are effective but costly, making them the least cost-effective options; (4) combinations are more cost-effective than single interventions; and (5) interventions are more cost-effective when adopted early. For 2009 H1N1 influenza, contact tracing was estimated to be 4363 times more cost-effective than school closure ($2260 vs. $9,860,000 per death prevented).

Conclusions and contributions

For COVID-19, a cautious interpretation suggests that (1) workplace and school closures are effective but costly, especially when adopted late, and (2) scaling up as early as possible a combination of interventions that includes hand-washing, face masks, ample protective equipment for healthcare workers, and swift contact tracing and case isolation is likely to be the most cost-effective strategy.
What is the impact of aminoglycoside exposure on soil and plant root-associated microbiota? A systematic review protocol
Authors: Coates Jessica , Bostick Kathleen J. , Jones Brooke A. , Caston Nymeer , Ayalew Mentewab
Published: May 2022

Background

Aminoglycosides are potent bactericidal antibiotics naturally produced by soil microorganisms and are commonly used in agriculture. Exposure to these antibiotics has the potential to cause shifts in the microorganisms that impact plant health. The systematic review described in this protocol will compile and synthesize literature on soil and plant root-associated microbiota, with special attention to aminoglycoside exposure. The systematic review should provide insight into how the soil and plant microbiota are impacted by aminoglycoside exposure with specific attention to the changes in the overall species richness and diversity (microbial composition), changes of the resistome (i.e. the changes in the quantification of resistance genes), and maintenance of plant health through suppression of pathogenic bacteria. Moreover, the proposed contribution will provide comprehensive information about data available to guide future primary research studies. This systematic review protocol is based on the question, “What is the impact of aminoglycoside exposure on the soil and plant root-associated microbiota?”.

Methods

A boolean search of academic databases and specific websites will be used to identify research articles, conference presentations and grey literature meeting the search criteria. All search results will be compiled and duplicates removed before title and abstract screening. Two reviewers will screen all the included titles and abstracts using a set of predefined inclusion criteria. Full-texts of all titles and abstracts meeting the eligibility criteria will be screened independently by two reviewers. Inclusion criteria will describe the eligible soil and plant root-associated microbiome populations of interest and eligible aminoglycosides constituting our exposure. Study validity will be evaluated using the CEE Critical Appraisal Tool Version 0.2 (Prototype) to evaluate the risk of bias in publications. Data from studies with a low risk of bias will be extracted and compiled into a narrative synthesis and summarized into tables and figures. If sufficient evidence is available, findings will be used to perform a meta-analysis.
Processes of change, pros, cons, and self-efficacy as variables associated with stage transitions for effective stress management over a month: a longitudinal study
Authors: Deng Ke , Tsuda Akira , Horiuchi Satoshi , Aoki Shuntaro
Published: May 2022

Background

The transtheoretical model of intentional health behavior change categorizes people into experiencing five stages in understanding the process of initiating and maintaining effective stress management (i.e., engagement in any form of healthy activity that is practiced for at least 20 min per day). The first purpose of this study was to observe whether any cases would disclose stage misclassification over one month. The second was to examine whether different model's variables are associated with the stage transitions for effective stress management at different stages.

Methods

Data from 946 Chinese students and workers were subjected to analyses. This study is a part of a larger, longitudinal web-based study in which three surveys were conducted in March, April, and September 2014. This study analyzes the data of demographic variables, perceived stress, stages of change, processes of change, pros, cons, and self-efficacy at the point of the first survey and stages of change at the point of the second survey.

Results

Of 144 participants who progressed from the pre-Action stages to the post-Action stages, 44 then progressed to Maintenance (practicing effective stress management for six months or longer). These patterns could not technically occur, and thus, these participants were excluded from the following analyses. Data from the remaining 902 participants were subject to a series of logistic regression analyses. Generally, the model’s variables failed to predict the stage transitions. Exceptions were found that higher experiential processes (the cognitive activities required to progress through stages) and lower self-efficacy (the confidence that one can engage in effective stress management despite barriers to it) predicted the forward and backward stage transitions from Precontemplation (with no intention to initiate effective stress management in the next six months) and Action/Maintenance (practicing effective stress management).

Conclusions

Evidence of stage misclassification indicated the limitations of the model’s stage classification. Experiential processes and self-efficacy as predictors at different stages were in line with the model’s assumption that different variables are assumed to be predictors of stage transitions at different stages, partially supporting the utility of the stage classification.
Preserving identities in post-industrial Rust Belt cities: reconsidering Buffalo’s material memory
Authors: Guitart Miguel
Published: May 2022

In the context of post-industrial Rust Belt cities, much needed investment seldom makes room for proper debate on the material memory and place identity embodied in the rich industrial legacy. However, a reflection on the intrinsic value of the vacant industrial structures of these cities leads to the unveiling of their most authentic identity. This identity is directly related to the material experience of their structures as it speaks to the qualities of a lasting presence in the collective memory. Post-industrial structures display material conditions that define their place character, constituting a negotiation between ruin and construction. This text contends that post-industrial materiality embodies necessary and strategic connections between past heritage and future interventions, implying the possibility of cyclical renovation in a context of reinforced identity. The text focuses on the potential of the existing post-industrial legacy of the city of Buffalo, NY, arguing that the material dimension that once defined its productive infrastructure frames the potential consolidation of its physical memory and future identity, and as such, a consolidation of its future growth.
Stabilisation of waterlogged archaeological wood: the application of structured-light 3D scanning and micro computed tomography for analysing dimensional changes
Authors: Stelzner Jörg , Stelzner Ingrid , Martinez-Garcia Jorge , Gwerder Damian , Wittköpper Markus , Muskalla Waldemar , Cramer Anja , Heinz Guido , Egg Markus , Schuetz Philipp
Published: May 2022

Cultural heritage objects made of wood can be preserved under waterlogged conditions for many years, where decay is slowed down and the wood structure is more or less completely filled with water. Depending on the degree of degradation, finds may collapse and shrink when they are allowed to dry in an uncontrolled manner after excavation, leading to total loss of the object and its information. Conservation measures are taken to prevent damage of objects and dimensional stability is an important criterion. In this study, structured-light 3D scanning and micro-computed tomography were used to analyse the dimensional stability of wood after conservation, as well as its long-term stability. 83 samples from a reference collection established between 2008 and 2011 allowed this comparative study of the most common conservation methods at that time. The effects of conservation methods using alcohol-ether resin, melamine-formaldehyde (Kauramin 800®), lactitol/trehalose, saccharose, and silicone oil on dimensional stability were investigated. In addition, different polyethylene glycol (PEG) treatments with subsequent freeze-drying were also investigated: one-stage with PEG 2000, two-stage with PEG 400 and PEG 4000 and three-stage with PEG 400, PEG 1500 and PEG 4000. The data received from analyses of both volume and surface gave detailed information about the success of each conservation method. Attempts were made to quantify the damage patterns, specifically shrinkage, collapse, and cracks. While PEG and freeze-drying, alcohol-ether-resin, as well as the Kauramin 800® method gave the best results, analysis also highlighted the failures of each method.
Neural network training with limited precision and asymmetric exponent
Authors: Pietrołaj Mariusz , Blok Marek
Published: May 2022

Along with an extremely increasing number of mobile devices, sensors and other smart utilities, an unprecedented growth of data can be observed in today’s world. In order to address multiple challenges facing the big data domain, machine learning techniques are often leveraged for data analysis, filtering and classification. Wide usage of artificial intelligence with large amounts of data creates growing demand not only for storage and operational memory, but also computational power. Increasing complexity and variety of neural network architectures are vivid examples of such trends in the modern data-driven industry. In response to this situation, focusing on less demanding operations for inference and training of neural networks became a popular approach among many researchers to overcome resources related issues. This work aims to investigate one of the paths associated with the mentioned efficiency problems and shows the impact of floating-point precision limitation on convolutional neural networks, including experiments on various exponent and mantissa sizes. Additionally, authors explore floating-point numbers utilization and optimization techniques in the scope of neural network training. Based on conducted research a novel method of asymmetric exponent utilization is presented achieving almost identical accuracy of 32-bit floating-point parameters while training a neural network with only 12-bit variables without additional rounding.
Evaluation of antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of herbal teas from Western Himalayan region: a comparison with green tea (Camellia sinensis) and black tea
Authors: Kumari Amita , Kumar Dharmesh
Published: May 2022

Background

Herbal tea, known as health-promoting due to its therapeutic potential for several ailments and consumption increased over decades. The Western Himalayan region of India affluent with herbs has therapeutic values. However, these herbs have not been used in the tea and are still untouched by mankind. Therefore, the present study aimed to pioneer and manufacture herbal teas from Western Himalayan region plants.

Results

Our findings showed that total polyphenol content was ranged from 4.42 ± 0.53 to 13.37 ± 0.50% compared to green tea (GT) and black tea (BT) (13.37 ± 0.50 and 10.05 ± 0.11%) of C. sinensis, total flavonoid and total catechin content was ranged from 1.81 ± 0.67–4.68 ± 0.26% to 4.43 ± 0.28–15.17 ± 0.53% in all the herbal tea samples. Moreover, antioxidant activity was ranged in DPPH from (27.58–226.28 µg/mL) and in ABTS (14.17–117.62 µg/mL). Highest antioxidant activity was observed in GT and lowest was observed in rose tea (RT). Heatmap was made for catechin visualization in green herbal teas (GHT). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed the variation of amino acids in all the herbal tea samples which was found in the range from 0.82 to 2.86%. Taxus green tea (TGT) exhibited remarkable cytotoxic activity against SW480 (50.9 ± 0.7 at 200 µg/mL). Whereas, sea-buckthorn green tea (SGT) exhibited the highest activities on A549 cells (87.01 ± 1.1 at 200 µg/mL). Maximum volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified in lemongrass black tea (LBT) (96.23%), namely, geranial, levoverbenone, pulegone, l-linalool and cineol. In addition, the sensory analysis revealed that herbal tea shows sweet and better taste with high sensory attributes.

Conclusions

Current study revealed that the Western Himalayan region plants could be used as herbal tea with additional health benefits. The prepared herbal teas can be used in nutraceuticals as a beverage and a new dietary source for bioactive compounds.

Graphical Abstract
Laboratory construction and curation scheme for returned samples of the chang’e-5 mission
Authors: Yang Hongwei , Yang Ruihong , Wang Qian
Published: May 2022

The analysis of samples returned from a planetary body is important to understand the origin, composition, evolution, and interactions with space or atmospheric weathering of the planet. In particular, pristine rocks, which are not affected by weathering, can be collected during sampling work. The analysis of samples will significantly promote the calibration, verification, and interpretation of remote sensing data and will improve the knowledge of interior materials using geophysical measurements. The Chang’e-5 lander, the first Chinese science project involving the return of lunar samples, launched on November 24, 2020 and drilled a core sample that is almost 1 m long, and acquired less than 2 kg during this mission. Because of the preciousness of the returned samples, the CLESEC (China Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Center) is planning to construct at least two laboratories, determine regulations for preserving samples from the Moon and other planets in future missions and develop non-damaging and/or minimally damaging technologies to analyze the returned samples. The CLESEC also announced standardized technologies and documentary regulations for preservation, measurement, and sharing schemes with scientists around the world. Based on the Apollo experiences, we have established detailed requirements and standardized conditions for constructing laboratories and curation with the aid of advanced technologies. We also discuss six potential demands for future sampling missions. Finally, we developed high-level criteria for future returning sample missions and relative curations that are beneficial to Chang’e-5 research and as well as preparation for other extraterrestrial samples in the near future.
The Makkah–Madinah Transform Zone: a relic rift-to-rift continental transform formed during early Arabia–Nubia plate separation
Authors: Aldaajani Thamer , Furlong Kevin P.
Published: May 2022

The continental-rifting of Arabia from Nubia, and the initial evolution of the Red Sea spreading center includes many of the continental-rifting to ocean-spreading processes, in particular transform formation, and the eventual development of a mid-ocean ridge. The recent occurrence of this rifting and the multi-stage evolution of the plate boundary has preserved of key components of the early-stage plate boundary development. We find that the Makkah–Madinah Transform Zone (MMTZ) represents a rift-to-rift continental transform fault that served as a primary component of the initial plate boundary between Arabia and Nubia. It connected the more evolved southern Red Sea mid-ocean ridge to the initially dominant Sirhan Rift. During this time, the MMTZ served as a primary lithospheric-scale boundary between the Arabia and Nubia plates. The Sirhan Rift and the MMTZ connection to the Red Sea spreading center was mostly abandoned with the development of the Dead Sea fault, and localization of extension in the present-day northern Red Sea. The transition to the present tectonic setting suggests an ephemeral rift–rift–transform triple junction within the central Red Sea connecting the localized southern Red Sea rift, a developing northern Red Sea rift, and the MMTZ transform.
Spontaneous formation of boron nitride nanotube fibers by boron impurity reduction in laser ablation of ammonia borane
Authors: Bae Dong Su , Kim Chunghun , Lee Hunsu , Khater Omar , Kim Keun Su , Shin Homin , Lee Kun-Hong , Kim Myung Jong
Published: May 2022

Highly crystalline and few-walled boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) had been synthesized by laser ablation using only ammonia borane as a precursor. As a molecular precursor, ammonia borane supplied both B and N atoms with a ratio of 1:1, and BNNTs were formed via the homogeneous nucleation of BN radicals, not the growth from boron nano-droplets, which is a generally accepted growth mechanism of the laser-grown BNNTs. Owing to the absence of amorphous boron impurities, the van der Waals interaction among BNNTs became effective and thus a BNNT fibers was formed spontaneously during the BNNT synthesis. The BNNT growth and the subsequent fiber formation are found to occur only at high pressures of a surrounding gas. The mechanism behind the critical role of pressure was elucidated from the perspective of reaction kinetics and thermal fluid behaviors. A polarized Raman study confirmed that the BNNT fiber formed exhibits a good alignment of BNNTs, which implies great potential for continuous production of high-quality BNNT fibers for various applications.
The mid-term and long-term effects of tourniquet use in total knee arthroplasty: systematic review
Authors: Rafaqat Wardah , Kumar Sudhesh , Ahmad Tashfeen , Qarnain Zul , Khan Khalid Saeed , Lakdawala Riaz Hussain
Published: May 2022

Purpose

A tourniquet is routinely used during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to reduce intra-operative hemorrhage, though surgery without a tourniquet is becoming popular. To address concerns about the effect of blood at cement interfaces on long-term implant stability, we conducted a systematic review among patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty to determine if TKA with a tourniquet, compared to TKA without a tourniquet or with reduced tourniquet duration, is associated with better mid-term and long-term implant stability.

Methods

A literature search was conducted without language restriction in PubMed, Cochrane database and Web of Science from conception to 17th March, 2021. Prospective cohorts, randomized and observational, that compared tourniquet use with a control group, followed patients for 3 months or more and reported outcomes concerning implant stability, limb function, pain and inflammation. Article selection, quality assessment according to the Revised Cochrane risk assessment scale and Newcastle Ottawa Scale, and data extraction were conducted in duplicate. PROSPERO: CRD42020179020.

Results

The search yielded 4868 articles, from which 16 randomized controlled trials (RCT) and four prospective cohort studies, evaluating outcomes of 1884 knees, were included. Eleven RCTs were evaluated to be low overall risk of bias, five RCTs had some concerns and four cohort studies were good quality. Few studies showed benefits of tourniquet use in mid-term implant stability (1/6), pain (1/11) and limb inflammation (1/5), and long-term implant stability (1/1). One study reported a significantly improved range of motion (1/14) while another reported significantly reduced quadriceps strength (1/6) in the tourniquet group. The remaining studies reported non-significant effect of tourniquet use.

Conclusion

Although few studies indicated benefits of tourniquet use in mid-term pain, limb inflammation, implant loosening and function, and long-term implant loosening, the majority of studies report no significant advantage of tourniquet use in total knee arthroplasty.
Fine-tuned regulation of photosynthetic performance via γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) supply coupled with high initial cell density culture for economic starch production in microalgae
Authors: Pan Yunyun , Shen Yuhan , Zhang Haoyu , Ran Xiuyuan , Xie Tonghui , Zhang Yongkui , Yao Changhong
Published: May 2022

Microalgal starch is considered as renewable and sustainable feedstock for biofuels and biorefinery. High cell density culture is favourable for photoautotrophic starch production in microalgae in the aspects of productivity and economy, but it often encounters low starch content or extra stress exposure that limits the production. This study aimed to economically enhance photosynthetic starch production from CO2 fixation in a green microalga Tetraselmis subcordiformis by regulating photosynthetic stress status with a signalling molecule γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) combined with the application of high initial cell density culture. By increasing initial cell density (ICD) from the normal of 1.1 g L−1 (NICD) to as high as 2.8 g L−1 (HICD), the starch content, yield, and theoretical productivity were improved by 7%, 63%, and 42%, respectively. The addition of GABA under HICD resulted in 14%, 19%, and 26% of further enhancement in starch content, yield, and theoretical productivity, respectively. GABA exhibited distinct regulatory mechanisms on photosynthesis and stress status under HICD relative to NICD. GABA augmented excessive light energy absorption and electron transfer through photosystem II that reinforced the photoinhibition under NICD, while alleviated the stress reversely under HICD, both of which facilitated starch production by enabling a suitable stress status while simultaneously maintaining a sufficient photosynthetic activity. The increase of ICD and/or GABA supply particularly boosted amylopectin accumulation, leading to the changes in starch composition and was more favourable for fermentation-based biofuels production. Preliminary techno-economic analysis showed that the highest net extra benefit of 9.64 $ m−3 culture could be obtained under HICD with 2.5 mM GABA supply where high starch content (62%DW) and yield (2.5 g L−1) were achieved. The combined HICD-GABA regulation was a promising strategy for economic starch production from CO2 by microalgae for sustainable biomanufacturing.

Graphical Abstract
Identifying factors that may influence the classification performance of radiomics models using contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) images
Authors: Sun Yuqi , Wang Simin , Liu Ziang , You Chao , Li Ruimin , Mao Ning , Duan Shaofeng , Lynn Henry S. , Gu Yajia
Published: May 2022

Background

Radiomics plays an important role in the field of oncology. Few studies have focused on the identification of factors that may influence the classification performance of radiomics models. The goal of this study was to use contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) images to identify factors that may potentially influence the performance of radiomics models in diagnosing breast lesions.

Methods

A total of 157 women with 161 breast lesions were included. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and the random forest (RF) algorithm were employed to construct radiomics models. The classification result for each lesion was obtained by using 100 rounds of five-fold cross-validation. The image features interpreted by the radiologists were used in the exploratory factor analyses. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association between the image features and misclassification. Additional exploratory analyses were performed to examine the findings.

Results

Among the lesions misclassified by both LASSO and RF ≥ 20% of the iterations in the cross-validation and those misclassified by both algorithms ≤5% of the iterations, univariate analysis showed that larger lesion size and the presence of rim artifacts and/or ripple artifacts were associated with more misclassifications among benign lesions, and smaller lesion size was associated with more misclassifications among malignant lesions (all p <  0.050). Multivariate analysis showed that smaller lesion size (odds ratio [OR] = 0.699, p = 0.002) and the presence of air trapping artifacts (OR = 35.568, p = 0.025) were factors that may lead to misclassification among malignant lesions. Additional exploratory analyses showed that benign lesions with rim artifacts and small malignant lesions (< 20 mm) with air trapping artifacts were misclassified by approximately 50% more in rate compared with benign and malignant lesions without these factors.

Conclusions

Lesion size and artifacts in CEM images may affect the diagnostic performance of radiomics models. The classification results for lesions presenting with certain factors may be less reliable.
Impact of stratospheric ozone on the subseasonal prediction in the southern hemisphere spring
Authors: Oh Jiyoung , Son Seok-Woo , Choi Jung , Lim Eun-Pa , Garfinkel Chaim , Hendon Harry , Kim Yoonjae , Kang Hyun-Suk
Published: May 2022

Antarctic ozone has been regarded as a major driver of the Southern Hemisphere (SH) circulation change in the recent past. Here, we show that Antarctic ozone can also affect the subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) prediction during the SH spring. Its impact is quantified by conducting two reforecast experiments with the Global Seasonal Forecasting System 5 (GloSea5). Both reforecasts are initialized on September 1st of each year from 2004 to 2020 but with different stratospheric ozone: one with climatological ozone and the other with year-to-year varying ozone. The reforecast with climatological ozone, which is common in the operational S2S prediction, shows the skill re-emergence in October after a couple of weeks of no prediction skill in the troposphere. This skill re-emergence, mostly due to the stratosphere–troposphere dynamical coupling, becomes stronger in the reforecast with year-to-year varying ozone. The surface prediction skill also increases over Australia. This result suggests that a more realistic stratospheric ozone could lead to improved S2S prediction in the SH spring.
Ventricular septal rupture after blunt chest trauma: a case report
Authors: Tochii Masato , Watanuki Hirotaka , Sugiyama Kayo , Futamura Yasuhiro , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Matsuyama Katsuhiko
Published: May 2022

Cardiac injury, including myocardial contusion and valvular damage, is a common complication of blunt chest trauma; however, traumatic ventricular septal rupture is a rare complication. We encountered a rare case of ventricular septal rupture following blunt chest trauma that was successfully repaired by emergency surgery. The mechanism underlying rupture may involve acute compression of the heart between the sternum and the vertebral column when the ventricle is filled, thereby causing a sudden increase in intraventricular pressure and leading to septal rupture. Emergency operation should be considered in cases of large defects and hemodynamic instability.
Approaches for monitoring and treating cardiomyopathy among cancer survivors following anthracycline or thoracic radiation treatment
Authors: Delavar Arash , Boutros Catherine , Barnea Dana , Schaffer Wendy L. , Tonorezos Emily S.
Published: May 2022

Background

Anthracycline chemotherapy and thoracic radiation therapy (RT) are known causes of cardiomyopathy among cancer survivors, however, management guidelines for this population are lacking. In this study we describe our single institution management approach for cancer survivors with low left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) secondary to cancer treatment.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective descriptive study of childhood and young adult (CAYA) cancer survivors in the Adult Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center enrolled between November 2005 and July 2019. Those included were treated with anthracycline and/or thoracic RT as a part of their cancer therapy and had recorded a LVEF of < 55% on at least one post-treatment echocardiogram. Details regarding survivor characteristics, screening, and management were abstracted. Differences in management approaches among survivors with LVEF of 50–54.9%, 40–49.9%, and < 40% were described. Qualitative management approaches were abstracted as well.

Results

Among 668 CAYA survivors in the initial cohort, 80 were identified who had received anthracycline and/or thoracic RT and had a LVEF of < 55%. Median age at cancer diagnosis was 16.1 years, median time from cancer diagnosis was 25.8 years, and 55% of survivors were female. Cardiology referrals, nuclear stress tests, multi-gated acquisition scans, angiograms, echocardiograms, treatment with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or receptor blockers, beta-blockers, diuretics, aldosterone antagonists, aspirin, and insertion of pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators differed by LVEF category. Documentation suggested uncertainty regarding management of survivors with borderline low-LVEF, with low-LVEF that improved on follow-up, and with subsequent cancers requiring additional treatment.

Conclusions

The management of CAYA cancer survivors with low-LVEF largely followed guidelines designed for the general population, however, uncertainty remains for issues specific to cancer survivors. Cardiomyopathy management guidelines that address issues specific to cancer survivors are needed.
Epidemiological characteristics of central nervous system tumors in children: a 5-year review of 3180 cases from Beijing Tiantan Hospital
Authors: Liu Zhi-ming , Liao Chih-yi , Zhang Heng , Han Zhe , Wang Jun-mei , Ma Zhen-yu , Li Chun-de , Gong Jian , Liu Wei , Sun Tao , Tian Yong-ji
Published: May 2022

Background

To describe the epidemiological characteristics of central nervous system (CNS) tumors in children, based on the neurosurgery department of Beijing Tiantan Hospital.

Methods

From January 2015 to December 2019, 3180 children were histopathologically diagnosed with CNS tumors based on the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumors. Patients were 0 to 15 years old. We analyzed age-related gender preferences, tumor locations, and the histological grades of the tumors. In addition, the epidemiological characteristics of the five most common intracranial tumors were compared to the previous studies.

Results

In this study, intracranial and spinal tumors account for 96.4% (3066) and 3.6% (114) of all tumors, with a preponderance of supratentorial tumors (57.9%). Among all pediatric patients, low-grade tumors comprise 67.1% (2 135). The integral gender ratio of males to females is 1.47: 1 and the average age of patients is 7.59 years old. The five most common intracranial tumors are craniopharyngioma (15.4%), medulloblastoma (14.3%), pilocytic astrocytoma (11.8%), diffuse astrocytoma (9.8%), and anaplastic ependymoma (4.8%).

Conclusions

Due to the lack of national data on childhood brain tumors, we used a large nationally representative population sample based on the largest pediatric neurosurgery center in China. We analyzed the data of the past 5 years, reflecting the incidence of CNS tumors in Chinese children to a certain extent, and laying a data foundation for subsequent clinical studies.
Visual communication via the design of food and beverage packaging
Authors: Spence Charles , Van Doorn George
Published: May 2022

A rapidly growing body of empirical research has recently started to emerge highlighting the connotative and/or semiotic meanings that consumers typically associate with specific abstract visual design features, such as colours (either when presented individually or in combination), simple shapes/curvilinearity, and the orientation and relative position of those design elements on product packaging. While certain of our affective responses to such basic visual design features appear almost innate, the majority are likely established via the internalization of the statistical regularities of the food and beverage marketplace (i.e. as a result of associative learning), as in the case of round typeface and sweet-tasting products. Researchers continue to document the wide range of crossmodal correspondences that underpin the links between individual visual packaging design features and specific properties of food and drink products (such as their taste, flavour, or healthfulness), and the ways in which marketers are now capitalizing on such understanding to increase sales. This narrative review highlights the further research that is still needed to establish the connotative or symbolic/semiotic meaning(s) of particular combinations of design features (such as coloured stripes in a specific orientation), as opposed to individual cues in national food markets and also, increasingly, cross-culturally in the case of international brands.
Malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase levels in patients with epilepsy: a case–control study
Authors: Shehta Nahed , Kamel Amr Elsayed , Sobhy Eman , Ismail Mohamed Hamdy
Published: May 2022

Background

Oxidative stress has a significant influence in the initiation and progression of epileptic seizures. It was reported that inhibiting oxidative stress could protect against epilepsy. The aim of the current research is to estimate some biomarkers that reflect the oxidative stress in epileptics, its relation to seizure control as well as to study the impact of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) on these biomarkers. This case–control study included 62 epileptic patients beside 62 age and gender-matched healthy controls. The epileptic patients subjected to detailed history taking with special regards to disease duration, seizure frequency, and the current AEDs. Laboratory evaluation of serum malondialdehyde (a lipid peroxidation byproduct) and superoxide dismutase (an endogenous antioxidant) were done.

Results

Malondialdehyde (MDA) was significantly higher, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was lower in epileptic patients than in the controls (p < 0.001). Seizure frequency was directly correlated with MDA (r = 0.584, p < 0.001) while inversely correlated with SOD (r = − 0.432, p = 0.008). High MDA and low SOD were recorded in epileptic patients receiving polytherapy as compared to monotherapy (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Epileptic patients had higher oxidative stress biomarkers than healthy individuals. Frequent seizures, long disease duration, and AEDs were associated with higher MDA and lower SOD that reflects an imbalance in the oxidant–antioxidant status among these patients.
An ICT architecture for enabling ancillary services in Distributed Renewable Energy Sources based on the SGAM framework
Authors: Stocker Armin , Alshawish Ali , Bor Martin , Vidler John , Gouglidis Antonios , Scott Andrew , Marnerides Angelos , De Meer Hermann , Hutchison David
Published: May 2022

Smart Grids are electrical grids that require a decentralised way of controlling electric power conditioning and thereby control the production and distribution of energy. Yet, the integration of Distributed Renewable Energy Sources (DRESs) in the Smart Grid introduces new challenges with regards to electrical grid balancing and storing of electrical energy, as well as additional monetary costs. Furthermore, the future smart grid also has to take over the provision of Ancillary Services (ASs). In this paper, a distributed ICT infrastructure to solve such challenges, specifically related to ASs in future Smart Grids, is described. The proposed infrastructure is developed on the basis of the Smart Grid Architecture Model (SGAM) framework, which is defined by the European Commission in Smart Grid Mandate M/490. A testbed that provides a flexible, secure, and low-cost version of this architecture, illustrating the separation of systems and responsibilities, and supporting both emulated DRESs and real hardware has been developed. The resulting system supports the integration of a variety of DRESs with a secure two-way communication channel between the monitoring and controlling components. It assists in the analysis of various inter-operabilities and in the verification of eventual system designs. To validate the system design, the mapping of the proposed architecture to the testbed is presented. Further work will help improve the architecture in two directions; first, by investigating specific-purpose use cases, instantiated using this more generic framework; and second, by investigating the effects a realistic number and variety of connected devices within different grid configurations has on the testbed infrastructure.
Use of the leaves of Alchornea cordifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) Müll (Euphorbiaceae) and prospects for treatment of infections due to multidrug-resistant bacteria
Authors: Adounkpe Ferdinand , Ayena Aimé Cézaire , Aholoukpe Viridiane , Dougnon Victorien , Klotoe Jean-Robert , Medehouenou Marc , Baba-Moussa Lamine
Published: May 2022

Background

Africa has a rich and diverse flora that people use for their food and health needs. This study aims to explore the possibility of using aqueous and/or ethanolic extracts of Alchornea cordifolia leaves as an alternative in the fight against multi-resistant bacteria responsible for gastritis and urinary tract infections.

Results

The results show that 100% of the tested bacilli (E. coli, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa) are resistant to the 10 antibiotic disks tested. This resistance is 66.66% for quinolones and fluoroquinolones. S. aureus was found to be resistant to glycopeptides and aminoglycosides. Three ESBL genes are identified in bacilli against only one type of ESBL gene in cocci. 100% of the bacilli carry the SHV genes, and S. aureus has the Mec A gene. The aqueous extract exerted a bactericidal effect on all the strains with MICs and BMCs varying, respectively, from 0.76 to 50 mg/ml and BMCs from 0.76 to 100 mg/ml. Only 40% of the chemical groups (tannin, flavonoids, mucilages and sterol-terpenes) sought were present in the aqueous extract. The ethanolic extract is not active.

Conclusions

Based on these data, the aqueous extract of A. cordifolia leaves is a good phytomedical candidate for the treatment of gastritis (stomach cramps, watery or bloody diarrhea) and urinary tract infections caused by multi-resistant Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.