bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic characterization of a diversity panel, selected from IPK linseed (Linum usitatissimum) world collection
Authors: Ataii Ehsan , Mirlohi Aghafakhr , Sabzalian Mohammad R. , Sharif‐Moghaddam Negar , Sadri Nafiseh , Jafari Parisa , Mohammadi Mirik Aliakbar
Published: August 2021

Despite all advances in crop breeding techniques, the fundamental role of studying and identifying new genetic material remains undeniable. In this study, a diversity panel (DP) of 120 linseeds were characterized in the field for potential use in breeding programmes during 2 years. The panel was assembled mainly from intermediate linseeds, randomly selected from IPK world collection. Traits evaluated consisted of seed yield, branches and capsules per plant; plant height; capsule diameter; seeds capsule−1; 1000‐seed weight; seed length and width and also seed oil and protein content. Results revealed a great variability in DP mainly attributable to the genetic factors (72.6%) rather than geographical origin (6.4%) or experimental years (20.9%). Among studied traits, seed yield, branches and capsules per plant showed the highest variability. However, seed size features had relatively higher broad‐sense heritability and showed the strongest correlation with seed yield per plant. The DP provides a potentially useful resource for linseed breeding; this was particularly evident for five identified elite lines, among which an Indian landrace was outstanding.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐A*68:277 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Aloufi Faisal , Alblaihed Asma , Alqasem Afnan , Al Rasheed Abdullah , Hajeer Ali H.
Published: August 2021

A single nucleotide change in exon 1 of HLA‐A*68:01:01:02 results in the novel HLA‐A*68:277 allele.
Middle Eocene‐Oligocene anatexis and exhumation of the Greater Himalayan Sequence in central Nepal
Authors: Xu Zhiqin , Wang Qin , Dong Hanwen , Cao Hui , Li Guangwei , Liang Fenghua , Rai Santa Man , Kylander‐Clark Andrew , Adhikari Santosh , Ji Shaocheng
Published: August 2021

We present structural analysis and zircon and monazite geochronology of the Greater Himalayan Sequence (GHS) in the Kali Gandaki valley, central Nepal. Although the foliation is moderately NE‐dipping, the upper GHS shows a top‐to‐WNW shear sense, whereas the lower GHS developed top‐to‐SW ductile shear zones. Quartz fabrics from mylonitic gneisses indicate deformation temperature from >650°C to ~450°C. Monazite from the GHS recorded anatexis at “near peak” conditions from ~43 to 28 Ma and exhumation near the sillimanite‐kyanite transition at 25–21 Ma. Ages of zircon rims constrain the onset of exhumation. From the upper GHS to the Main Central Thrust zone, pervasive deformation and anticlockwise rotation of the lineation from the orogen‐parallel to orogen‐perpendicular direction suggest exhumation of the GHS by general shear from ~31 to 21 Ma. A two‐stage exhumation model is proposed to explain the diffuse strain distribution and anatexis during early crustal thickening.
Geomorphometric analysis of the natural and anthropogenic seascape of Naples (Italy): A high‐resolution morpho‐bathymetric survey
Authors: Caporizzo Claudia , Aucelli Pietro P. C. , Di Martino Gabriella , Mattei Gaia , Tonielli Renato , Pappone Gerardo
Published: August 2021

This research aims to reconstruct the submerged morphologies of the high‐coast sectors of Naples discriminating between landforms and anthropogenic structures, by analysing the high‐resolution data of a multibeam survey in a GIS environment. In the case of natural landforms, a signal analysis was performed to characterize the seabed and discern between sandy and rocky bottom, together with a slope analysis pointing to the detection and mapping of different orders of palaeo‐shore platforms at different bathymetric ranges and interpreted as erosional traces of the Holocene sea cliff retreat affecting the study area, mainly caused by a subsiding trend that exacerbated the glacio‐hydro‐isostatic sea‐level rise. Then, the detected palaeo‐shore platforms were further analysed to quantify their roughness degree and, consequently, the differential erosion affecting the rocky platforms. On the other hand, regarding the submerged anthropogenic structures, the multibeam survey allowed several underwater archaeological remains of Roman Age to be mapped, demonstrating the high cultural relevance of the study area.
Comparison on two case‐based reasoning strategies of automatically selecting terrain covariates for digital soil mapping
Authors: Liang Peng , Qin Cheng‐Zhi , Zhu A‐Xing
Published: August 2021

The terrain covariate is one type of key environmental covariate used in digital soil mapping (DSM). Because the selection of proper terrain covariates relies largely on users’ DSM knowledge and application context, automatic selection of terrain covariates is valuable for DSM users (especially non‐experts). Case‐based reasoning provides a promising solution to this demand. Recently, two case‐based reasoning strategies have been proposed (i.e., the covariate‐classification strategy and the most‐similar‐case strategy). However, there is no comparison of their performance, as well as that of the implemented methods based on the same or different strategies. This study fills this knowledge gap through a comparison experiment on the two representative methods for each strategy, respectively. Experiments adopted a DSM case base including 191 cases, which involve 38 terrain covariates. Results from a cross‐validation and a practical DSM application showed that the random forests method adopting the covariate‐classification strategy performed best.
Geospatial socio‐economic/demographic data: The existence of spatial autocorrelation mixtures in georeferenced data—Part II
Authors: Griffith Daniel A. , Agarwal Khushboo , Chen Meifang , Lee Changho , Panetti Emily Ann , Rhyu Kyunghee , Venigalla Lasya , Yu Xiaohe
Published: August 2021

This second article in a series of two also addresses the conjectures posited in Part I, asserting that many georeferenced attribute random variables (RVs) contain a positive–negative spatial autocorrelation (SA) mixture, and that georeferenced socio‐economic/demographic attribute RVs have roughly the same magnitude of positive SA as that frequently computed for remotely sensed pixel data, an extent suppressed in its net amount by the negative SA in a variable's mixture. Rather than a single RV across a multitude of geographic landscapes, this article summarizes research exploring these two propositions for a wide range of attribute RVs. Findings from both Parts I and II corroborate this mixture's commonplace existence, as well as the tendency for pronounced positive SA to characterize both socio‐economic/demographic and remotely sensed variates, with moderate net positive SA typifying measurements for these former georeferenced data.
Willingness of blood donors in Australia to provide additional data and blood sample for health research
Authors: Karki Surendra , Gemelli Carley N. , Davison Tanya E. , Masser Barbara M. , Marks Denese C. , Bell Katy , Liu Bette , Hayen Andrew , van den Hurk Katja , Irving David O.
Published: August 2021

Background

Many blood collection agencies are generating important data on donor health outcomes using large‐scale blood donor cohort studies. Such studies can be very effective when donors provide access to linkage of their data to external health databases, and storage and genomic testing of their blood sample. In this study, we aimed to assess the willingness of Australian blood donors to provide additional data and blood sample for donation‐related and other health research.

Study design and methods

We invited 2017 donors to complete a survey using four methods (postal letter, postal letter and email, email only, and in‐center recruitment). The survey asked for information on demographics, lifestyle behaviors, health, experience and attitude to blood donation, and willingness to give blood sample and additional data for research.

Results

Response rates ranged from 23.8% for email only to 77.2% for in‐center recruitment. Of those who responded (n = 827), 95.5% indicated they would be willing to provide a blood sample for donation and transfusion‐related research. Of these, >90.0% were willing for their sample to be used in research involving genetic testing and other health‐related topics. Also, >90.0% were willing to consent for linkage of their information to external health databases.

Conclusions

Donors surveyed reported a high willingness to participate in health research by completing surveys, allowing linkage to external datasets, and providing a blood sample. These findings provide strong support for future longitudinal research studies with Australian blood donors.
Influence of age, sex, body condition score, rectal temperature, anatomical location and hair on skin pH in dogs
Authors: Schlake Alexander , Devriendt Nausikaa , Talloen Louise , Dadi Tri Bhawono , de Rooster Hilde
Published: August 2021

Background

Physiological skin pH levels are well‐documented in human medicine, and assessment of variations may be important in assessing the efficacy of wound healing. By contrast, physiological skin pH levels in dogs are sparsely described.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine the pH of intact skin in healthy dogs and to study the influence of different physiological factors on the pH level of canine skin.

Animals

Seventy‐seven client‐owned dogs of various breeds, age and sex.

Methods and materials

A prospective study was designed and the pH of intact skin was measured at the concave surface of both pinnae, and in both axillary and inguinal regions. For each location, the colour and density of the hairs also was recorded. Each dog’s rectal body temperature and body condition scores also were determined.

Results

The skin pH in dogs <12 weeks of age was significantly lower (3.97–5.70) than in older dogs (4.40–8.18) (P < 0.001). In dogs >12 weeks of age, skin pH was significantly lower in the inguinal regions compared to the pinnae (P = 0.008), and female dogs had a significantly lower skin pH in the inguinal regions than male dogs (P = 0.043). Pinnae covered with light‐coloured hair had a lower skin pH than those with dark‐coloured hair (P = 0.04). No significant differences were found between dogs with different body condition scores, body temperatures or differences in hair density.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

The pH of intact healthy skin is lower in puppies of <12 weeks of age. Regional differences of body location also were seen which were variably affected by hair colour and sex. A baseline assessment of skin pH in healthy dogs is important for future studies of disease and wound healing.
Adverse events associated with venomous insect immunotherapy and clinical outcomes in 82 dogs (2002–2020)
Authors: Ewing Trenton S. , Dong Charli , Boord Mona J. , Fang Yinan
Published: August 2021

Background

Limited information is known on adverse events and efficacy associated with venomous insect immunotherapy (VIT) in canine patients.

Objectives

To assess adverse events associated with VIT and perceived efficacy of VIT.

Animals

Records from 82 client‐owned animals which received VIT were assessed.

Methods and materials

A retrospective review of records from 2002 to 2020. Clinical history, adverse events during therapy and observations following field stings were collected from all records. Patients were grouped into reactors and nonreactors based on whether or not an adverse event had occurred during therapy. Records were evaluated to determine if a field sting had occurred and the severity of the reaction was compared to pretreatment reaction.

Results

Of 82 patients that were identified, 26 experienced a minimum of one adverse event. No deaths or severe anaphylactic reactions were reported. The most common adverse event was gastrointestinal upset. The overall reaction rate per injection was 2.8%. Only variation in sensitisation level (the minimum concentration of venom which elicited a positive intradermal reaction) was significantly different between groups (P = 0.014). Forty‐one field challenges in 26 patients were documented. Therapy reduced the severity of reactions in 87.8% of challenges. No deaths were reported.

Conclusion

Venom immunotherapy appears to be a safe and efficacious treatment for prevention of anaphylaxis due to insect stings in canine patients.
Function of K2P channels in the mammalian node of Ranvier
Authors: Schwarz Jürgen R.
Published: August 2021

In myelinated nerve fibres, action potentials are generated at nodes of Ranvier. These structures are located at interruptions of the myelin sheath, forming narrow gaps with small rings of axolemma freely exposed to the extracellular space. The mammalian node contains a high density of Na+ channels and K+‐selective leakage channels. Voltage‐dependent Kv1 channels are only present in the juxta‐paranode. Recently, the leakage channels have been identified as K2P channels (TRAAK, TREK‐1). K2P channels are K+‐selective ‘background’ channels, characterized by outward rectification and their ability to be activated, e.g. by temperature, mechanical stretch or arachidonic acid. We are only beginning to elucidate the peculiar functions of nodal K2P channels. I will discuss two functions of the nodal K2P‐mediated conductance. First, at body temperature K2P channels have a high open probability, thereby inducing a resting potential of about −85 mV. This negative resting potential reduces steady‐state Na+ channel inactivation and ensures a large Na+ inward current upon a depolarizing stimulus. Second, the K2P conductance is involved in nodal action potential repolarization. The identification of nodal K2P channels is exciting since it shows that the nodal K+ conductance is not a fixed value but can be changed: it can be increased or decreased by a broad range of K2P modulators, thereby modulating, for example, the resting potential. The functional importance of nodal K2P channels will be exemplified by describing in more detail the function of the K2P conductance increase by raising the temperature from room temperature to 37°C.

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O Regime Pluviométrico e o Diagnóstico Ambiental na Área de Influência do Reservatório de Juturnaíba, RJ
Authors: Quintela M. A. , Cunha S. B.
Published: August 2021

Uma análise espacial-temporal das precipitações pluviais é efetuada com a finalidade de reconstituir a situação anterior ao enchimento do Reservatório de Juturnaíba (RJ). Este enfoque e considerado fundamental, ja que muitas das considerações sobre modificações climáticas ocasionadas pela formação de lagos artificiais são difíceis de serem substanciadas em função da falta de dados para confirmá-las.
Geologia e Geomorfologia da Planície Costeira da Praia do Sul: Ilha Grande - Uma Contribuição à Elaboração do Plano Diretor da Reserva Biológica
Authors: Amador Elmo Da Silva
Published: August 2021

Based on stratigraphical, sedimentological and geomorphological methods, a preliminary stratigraphic division is proposed to the Praia do Sul coastal plain, a state Biological Reserve, located in "Ilha Grande", Rio de Janeiro. This reserve was created to preserve the natural ecosystems found therein (sandy coastal plain, mangrove, lagoon, rocky coast and hillside fo rest). The Praia do Sul sedimentation plain is essentially constituted by continental gravels and sands of Upper Pleistocene, marine sandy formations, fluvial-lagoonal sandy-clayer formations and present mangrove swamps and beachs. The paleogeographic evolution of this area can be followed through the sedimentary association that permits to establish the transgressive and regressive process that occured during the Quaternary period.
A Allanita de Mucaia (Minas Gerais) e seu Contexto
Authors: Cassedanne J. P. , Baptista A. , Alves J.
Published: August 2021

Les minéraux associés à l'allanite de Mucaia (vallée du Rio Marambaia, Nord de Minas Gerais) sont brièvement décrits ainsi que la pegmatite granitique encaissante. L'allanite est noir de poix, métamicte avec une densité de 3 48 et un indice moyen de 1,723. Elle contient de petites inclusions d'hématite. Son diffractogramme après chauffage et son analyse semi-quantita tive par fluorescence X sont fournis ainsi que ceux de plages brun orangé correspondant à de l'allanite altérée. Un mince cor tex d'altération est formé de bastnaesite mêlée à des hydroxydes de fer, du quartz et de la kaolinite. De la vermiculite qui a adsorbé des terres rares et dérive de l'altération de la biotite est associée à l'allanite.
O arquipélago dos Abrolhos: Geomorfologia e Aspectos Gerais
Authors: Muehe Dieter
Published: August 2021

Physiographic aspects of the Abrolhos archipel are des cribed with the purpose to contribute information for the manage ment plan of the newly created marine park. The archipel, composed by four major islands and one minor one, are of vulcanic character. Tow of the islands, Santa Barbara and Redonda, shows strata of sedimentary rocks, mainly sandstones, with Intercalations of basaltic intrusions. The others are entirely composed of mafic rocks. The region suffered a tilting of about 13º to NNW, resulting in asymmetric topographic profiles with the development of high cliffs at the south side of the islands. A wave abrasion platform is found with interruptions around the islands. Low precipitation and high evaporation results in a water deficit that inhibits the development of soils and vegatation making the islands unsuitable for heavy visitation.
Tipologia de processos erosivos canalizados e escorregamentos: proposta para avaliação de riscos geomorfológicos urbanos em Barra Mansa (RJ)
Authors: Castro Cleber Marques de , Mello Eduardo Vieira de , Peixoto Maria Naíse de Oliveira
Published: August 2021

A classification applied to erosion and mass movements in Middle Paraíba do Sul River Valley is presented. It was based on gullies and slides geometry and relationships with river channels and geomorphic evolution patterns of amphitheater-like headwaters.
Caracterização econômica e mercadológica da região produtora de Rochas Ornamentais de Santo Antônio de Pádua (RJ)
Authors: Baptista Filho João , Tanaka Maira Damião
Published: August 2021

This paper is an attempt to delineate the ways of nowadays industrialization of ornamental Rocks in Santo Antônio de Pádua (RJ) It is very important to emphasize the almost total dependence of the local economy with this kind of activity.
Caracterização da matéria orgânica sedimentar na Baía de Guanabara através de marcadores moleculares
Authors: Carreira Renato S. , Wagener Angela L.R.
Published: August 2021

The present work aimed at investigating the effects of growing eutrophic conditions and soil occupation on the carbon storage in Guanabara Bay. Sterols in dated sediment cores were used to characterize the sources of organic matter to the bay. Dinosterol was the most abundant amongst the measured sterols reaching 64.7 % of the total. Coprostanol, a fecal sterol, was present in concentrations as high as 40 Âµg g-1 in areas of intensive sewage discharge. These results are in agreement with the known elevated primary production in the bay and with the severe eutrophic conditions. The calculated carbon fluxes using the organic carbon content and the sedimention rates range between 50 g C m-2 year-1 and 500g C m-2 year-1 during the last 100 years.
Impacto da duplicação de CO2 no clima global simulado por um modelo de circulação geral da atmosfera
Authors: Silva Felipe Das Neves Roque da , França José Ricardo Almeida
Published: August 2021

The objective of this work is to evaluate climate changes caused by atmospheric CO2 concentration duplication. The LMD-Z atmosphere general circulation model (AGCM) was used (Laboratoire de Météorologie Dynamique - France). The model was integrated for a fifty years period and only the last forty years were used for analyses. This experiment have made two simulations: the first using the current CO2 concentration (control case) and the second using this concentration doubled (duplication case). Both were made with a variable spatial resolution with maximum of it centered in Rio de Janeiro. This way, there is a significant increase of model resolution in this region. To verify climate changes, anomaly fields generated by the model (duplication case minus control) were studied. It was possible to observe some characteristic effects of this type of experiment, such as great temperature increasing at surface in polar regions and in upper levels at low latitudes, cooling in stratosphere and intensification of hydrological cycle.
Baurusuquídeos da Bacia Bauru (Cretáceo Superior, Brasil)
Authors: Arruda João Tadeu , Carvalho Ismar De Souza , Vasconcellos Felipe Mesquita de
Published: August 2021

The baurusuchids are medium-sized crocodylomorphs with terrestrial habits, found in the Gondwana Cretaceous basins of South America and Paleogene basins of Europe and Africa. Since 1945 many skeletal remains have been found on Western of São Paulo State, in rocks of Adamantina Formation, Bauru Basin (Late Cretaceous). The vicinities of General Salgado County, São Paulo State, had revealed well-preserved and articulated fossils of baurusuchids, allowing studies on the their paleoecology and paleobiology.
NanI Sialidase Contributes to the Growth and Adherence of Clostridium perfringens Type F Strain F4969 in the Presence of Adherent Mucus
Authors: Li Jihong , Navarro Mauricio A. , Uzal Francisco A. , McClane Bruce A.
Published: August 2021

Clostridium perfringens
type F strains causing nonfoodborne human gastrointestinal diseases (NFD) typically produce NanI sialidase as their major secreted sialidase. Type F NFDs can persist for several weeks, indicating their pathogenesis involves intestinal colonization, including vegetative cell growth and adherence, with subsequent sporulation that fosters enterotoxin production and release. We previously reported that NanI contributes to type F NFD strain adherence and growth using Caco-2 cells.
α-Galactosylceramide-Reactive NKT Cells Increase IgG1 Class Switch against a Clostridioides difficile Polysaccharide Antigen and Enhance Immunity against a Live Pathogen Challenge
Authors: Lang Gillian A. , Shrestha Binu , Amadou Amani Souwelimatou , Shadid Tyler M. , Ballard Jimmy D. , Lang Mark L.
Published: August 2021

All clinical
Clostridioides difficile
strains identified to date express a surface capsule-like polysaccharide structure known as polysaccharide II (PSII). The PSII antigen is immunogenic and, when conjugated to a protein carrier, induces a protective antibody response in animal models.
Supplemental Material: Carbon isotope excursions during the late Miocene recorded by lipids of marine Thaumarchaeota, Piedmont Basin, Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Sabino Mathia , al. et
Published: August 2021

Geological setting, methodology, and lipid abundance, carbon stable isotopes, and sources (Tables S1–S4; Figures S1–S3).
Supplemental Material: Orbital control of Pleistocene euxinia in Lake Magadi, Kenya
Authors: Deocampo Daniel , al. et
Published: August 2021

Comparison of Lake Magadi euxinia with global paleoclimate and orbital parameters, photography of selected core intervals, geochemical data, and statistical analyses.
Supplemental Material: Metamorphism obscures primary taphonomic pathways in the early Cambrian Sirius Passet Lagerstätte, North Greenland
Authors: Nielsen Morten Lunde , al. et
Published: August 2021

Materials, methods and bulk rock geochemical characterization.
SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antibody detection in breast milk from a prospective multicentre study in Spain
Authors: Bäuerl Christine , Randazzo Walter , Sánchez Gloria , Selma-Royo Marta , García Verdevio Elia , Martínez Laura , Parra-Llorca Anna , Lerin Carles , Fumadó Victoria , Crovetto Francesca , Crispi Fatima , Pérez-Cano Francisco J , Rodríguez Gerardo , Ruiz-Redondo Gemma , Campoy Cristina , Martínez-Costa Cecilia , Collado Maria Carmen
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To develop and validate a specific protocol for SARS-CoV-2 detection in breast milk matrix and to determine the impact of maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection on the presence, concentration and persistence of specific SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.

Design and patients

This is a prospective, multicentre longitudinal study (April–December 2020) in 60 mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or who have recovered from COVID-19. A control group of 13 women before the pandemic were also included.

Setting

Seven health centres from different provinces in Spain.

Main outcome measures

Presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in breast milk, targeting the N1 region of the nucleocapsid gene and the envelope (E) gene; presence and levels of SARS-CoV-2-specific immunoglobulins (Igs)—IgA, IgG and IgM—in breast milk samples from patients with COVID-19.

Results

All breast milk samples showed negative results for presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. We observed high intraindividual and interindividual variability in the antibody response to the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein for each of the three isotypes IgA, IgM and IgG. Main Protease (MPro) domain antibodies were also detected in milk. 82.9% (58 of 70) of milk samples were positive for at least one of the three antibody isotypes, with 52.9% of these positive for all three Igs. Positivity rate for IgA was relatively stable over time (65.2%–87.5%), whereas it raised continuously for IgG (from 47.8% for the first 10 days to 87.5% from day 41 up to day 206 post-PCR confirmation).

Conclusions

Our study confirms the safety of breast feeding and highlights the relevance of virus-specific SARS-CoV-2 antibody transfer. This study provides crucial data to support official breastfeeding recommendations based on scientific evidence.

Trial registration numberNCT04768244.
Reduction of ileocolic intussusception under sedation or anaesthesia: a systematic review of complications
Authors: Gal Moran , Gamsu Shirly , Jacob Ron , Cohen Daniel M , Shavit Itai
Published: August 2021

Background

Despite the increased use of sedation in children undergoing stressful procedures, reduction of ileocolic intussusception (RII) is usually performed on awake children without any form of sedation.

Objective

To evaluate the incidence of severe complications of RII under sedation or anaesthesia.

Design

A systematic review including English language original articles of any date.

Patients

Children undergoing RII (pneumatic or hydrostatic) under sedation or anaesthesia.

Data sources

Ovid Embase, Scopus, PubMed, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the internet search engine Google Scholar.

Data extraction

Three authors independently reviewed each article for eligibility. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of included studies.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the incidence of intestinal perforation during RII. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of sentinel adverse events defined as death, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, permanent neurological deficit and pulmonary aspiration syndrome.

Results

The search yielded 368 articles. Nine studies with 1391 cases were included in the analysis. Of the nine studies, six had a score of ≤6 stars in the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale assessment, indicating low-to-moderate quality. Propofol-based sedation was used in 849 (59.2%) cases; 5 (0.6%) had intestinal perforation. Intestinal perforation was not reported in patients who were sedated with other sedatives. One patient had pulmonary aspiration syndrome.

Conclusions

Although caution remains warranted, current data suggest that the incidence of severe complications due to RII under sedation or anaesthesia is low. Due to the lack of prospective data, it is difficult to ascertain the exact incidence of severe complications.
Infection of a sylvian Galassi II arachnoid cyst after craniotomy for resection of a parasagittal meningioma
Authors: Christodoulides Ioannis , Syrris Christoforos , Lavrador Jose Pedro , Chandler Christopher
Published: August 2021

Arachnoid cysts are CSF-containing entities that rarely are symptomatic or warrant neurosurgical intervention. In addition, infection of these lesions is an even rarer event, with only four reports in the literature capturing this. In this report, we present the case of a 79-year-old man presenting with paraparesis, secondary to a right parasagittal meningioma, with an incidental asymptomatic right sylvian arachnoid cyst (Galassi type II). The initially planned surgery was postponed for 3 months, due to COVID-19 restrictions, and he was kept on high dose of steroids. Following tumour resection, the patient developed bilateral subdural empyemas with involvement of the arachnoid cyst, requiring bilateral craniotomies for evacuation of the empyemas and drainage of the arachnoid cyst. Suppuration of central nervous system arachnoid cysts is a very rare complication following cranial surgery with the main working hypotheses including direct inoculation from surrounding inflamed meninges or haematogenous spread secondary to systemic bacteraemia, potentiated by steroid-induced immunosuppression. Even though being a rarity, infection of arachnoid cysts should be considered in immunosuppressed patients in the presence of risk factors such as previous craniotomy.
A case of pulmonary nodules in a patient living with HIV diagnosed with secondary syphilis
Authors: Bell Natasha , Bracchi Margherita , Pozniak Anton
Published: August 2021

We discuss a case of secondary syphilis with pulmonary involvement in a 45-year-old man who tested positive for HIV. He presented with dyspnoea, chest pain and a rash on his limbs and torso. A CT showed multiple bilateral necrotic lung nodules. A diagnosis of pulmonary syphilis was made due to his respiratory symptoms and imaging, his serological, histopathology findings, and the resolution of symptoms on treatment with benzathine penicillin.
Protocol for developing core outcome sets for evaluation of psychosocial interventions for children and families with experience or at risk of child maltreatment or domestic abuse
Authors: Howarth Emma , Powell Claire , Woodman Jenny , Walker Erin , Chesters Heather , Szilassy Eszter , Gilbert Ruth , Feder Gene
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Recognition that child maltreatment (CM) and domestic violence and abuse (DVA) are common and have serious and long-term adverse health consequences has resulted in policies and programmes to ensure that services respond to and safeguard children and their families. However, high-quality evidence about how services can effectively intervene is scant. The value of the current evidence base is limited partly because of the variety of outcomes and measures used in evaluative studies. One way of addressing this limitation is to develop a core outcome set (COS) which is measured and reported as a minimum standard in the context of trials and other types of evaluative research. The study described in this protocol aims to develop two discrete COSs for use in future evaluation of psychosocial interventions aimed at improving outcomes for children and families at risk or with experience of (1) CM or (2) DVA.

Methods and analysis

A two-phase mixed methods design: (1) rapid reviews of evidence, stakeholder workshops and semistructured interviews with adult survivors of CM/DVA and parents of children who have experienced CM/DVA and (2) a three panel adapted E-Delphi Study and consensus meeting. This study protocol adheres to reporting guidance for COS protocols and has been registered on the Core Outcome Measures for Effectiveness Trials (COMET) database.

Ethics and dissemination

We will disseminate our findings through peer-reviewed and open access publications, the COMET website and presentations at international conferences. We will engage with research networks, journal editors and funding agencies to promote awareness of the CM-COS and DVA-COS. We will work with advisory and survivor and public involvement groups to coproduce a range of survivor, policy and practice facing outputs.

Approval for this study has been granted by the Research Ethics Committee at University College London.
Strengthening retinopathy of prematurity screening and treatment services in Nigeria: a case study of activities, challenges and outcomes 2017-2020
Authors: Ademola-Popoola Dupe S , Fajolu Iretiola B , Gilbert Clare , Olusanya Bolutife A , Onakpoya Oluwatoyin H , Ezisi Chinyelu N , Musa Kareem O , Chan Robison Vernon Paul , Okeigbemen Valentina W , Muhammad Rilwan C , Malik Aeesha N J , Adio Adedayo O , Bodunde Olubunmi T , Rafindadi Abdulkadir L , Oluleye Tunji S , Tongo Olukemi O , Badmus Sarat A , Adebara Olufunmilayo V , Padhi Tapas Ranjan , Ezenwa Beatrice N , Obajolowo Tokunbo S , Olokoba Lateefat B , Olatunji Victoria A , Babalola Yewande Olubunmi , Ugalahi Mary O , Adenekan Adetunji , Adesiyun Omotayo O , Sahoo Jagdish , Miller Marilyn T , Uhumwangho Odarosa M , Olagbenro Adeduntan S , Adejuyigbe Ebunoluwa A , Ezeaka Chinyere V C , Mokuolu Olugbenga , Ogunlesi Tinuade A , Ogunfowora Olusoga B , Abdulkadir Isa , Abdullahi Fatima L , Fabiyi Abosede T , Hassan Laila H L , Baiyeroju Aderonke M , Opara Peace I , Oladigbolu Kehinde , Eneh Augusta U , Fiebai Bassey E , Mahmud-Ajeigbe Fatima A , Peter Elijah N , Abdullahi Hawwa S
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) will become a major cause of blindness in Nigerian children unless screening and treatment services expand. This article aims to describe the collaborative activities undertaken to improve services for ROP between 2017 and 2020 as well as the outcome of these activities in Nigeria.

Design

Descriptive case study.

Setting

Neonatal intensive care units in Nigeria.

Participants

Staff providing services for ROP, and 723 preterm infants screened for ROP who fulfilled screening criteria (gestational age <34 weeks or birth weight ≤2000 g, or sickness criteria).

Methods and analysis

A WhatsApp group was initiated for Nigerian ophthalmologists and neonatologists in 2018. Members participated in a range of capacity-building, national and international collaborative activities between 2017 and 2018. A national protocol for ROP was developed for Nigeria and adopted in 2018; 1 year screening outcome data were collected and analysed. In 2019, an esurvey was used to collect service data from WhatsApp group members for 2017–2018 and to assess challenges in service provision.

Results

In 2017 only six of the 84 public neonatal units in Nigeria provided ROP services; this number had increased to 20 by 2018. Of the 723 babies screened in 10 units over a year, 127 (17.6%) developed any ROP; and 29 (22.8%) developed type 1 ROP. Only 13 (44.8%) babies were treated, most by intravitreal bevacizumab. The screening criteria were revised in 2020. Challenges included lack of equipment to regulate oxygen and to document and treat ROP, and lack of data systems.

Conclusion

ROP screening coverage and quality improved after national and international collaborative efforts. To scale up and improve services, equipment for neonatal care and ROP treatment is urgently needed, as well as systems to monitor data. Ongoing advocacy is also essential.
Pulling our lens backwards to move forward: an integrated approach to physician distress
Authors: McQueen Sydney Amelia , Hammond Mobilio Melanie , Moulton Carol-anne
Published: August 2021

The medical community has recently acknowledged physician stress as a leading issue for individual wellness and healthcare system functioning. Unprecedented levels of stress contribute to physician burnout, leaves of absence and early retirement. Although recommendations have been made, we continue to struggle with addressing stress. One challenge is a lack of a shared definition for what we mean by ‘stress’, which is a complex and idiosyncratic phenomenon that may be examined from a myriad of angles. As such, research on stress has traditionally taken a reductionist approach, parsing out one aspect to investigate, such as stress physiology. In the medical domain, we have traditionally underappreciated other dimensions of stress, including emotion and the role of the environmental and sociocultural context in which providers are embedded. Taking a complementary, holistic approach to stress and focusing on the composite, subjective individual experience may provide a deeper understanding of the phenomenon and help to illuminate paths towards wellness. In this review article, we first examine contributions from unidimensional approaches to stress, and then outline a complementary, integrated approach. We describe how complex phenomena have been tackled in other domains and discuss how holistic theory and the humanities may help in studying and addressing physician stress, with the ultimate goal of improving physician well-being and consequently patient care.
Eosinophilia and fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels in chronic obstructive lung disease
Authors: Annangi Srinadh , Nutalapati Snigdha , Sturgill Jamie , Flenaugh Eric , Foreman Marilyn
Published: August 2021

Introduction

COPD is a heterogeneous disorder with varied phenotypes. We aimed to determine the prevalence of asthma history, peripheral eosinophilia and elevated FeNO levels along with the diagnostic utility of peripheral eosinophilia in identifying airway eosinophilic inflammation.

Methods

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data were analysed for the study period 2007–2010. Subjects aged ≥40 years with postbronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio <0.70 were included. Receiver operator curve analysis was performed for sensitivity analysis. A p value of <0.001 is considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 3 110 617 weighted COPD cases were identified; predominantly male (64.4%) and non-Hispanic whites (86.1%). Among our COPD subjects, 14.6% had a history of doctor diagnosed asthma, highest among females and other race Americans. The overall prevalence of peripheral eosinophilia is 36%, 38.3% among COPD subjects with asthma history, and 35.6% among COPD without asthma history. The overall prevalence of elevated FeNO ≥25 ppb is 14.3%; 28.7% among COPD subjects with asthma history and 13.0% among COPD without asthma history.

Discussion

The prevalence of FeNO levels ≥25 ppb and peripheral eosinophilia was significantly higher among COPD subjects with asthma compared with COPD without asthma history. Not all COPD subjects with peripheral eosinophilia and elevated FeNO levels have a reported history of asthma. Our study supports clinically phenotyping COPD subjects with eosinophilic inflammation be independent of their asthma history and peripheral eosinophilia can be used as a surrogate marker in resource-limited settings.
Seed germination responses to low-level narrow-band light spectra for 14 ornamental plant genotypes
Authors: Kamath Devdutt , Kong Yun , Dayboll Chevonne , Blom Theo , Zheng Youbin
Published: August 2021

To investigate whether low-level lighting is necessary and which narrow-band light spectra are effective in seed germination, seeds of 14 genotypes from begonia (Begonia × tuberosa), echinacea (Echinacea spp.), gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii), petunia (Petunia × hybrida), and vinca (Catharanthus roseus) were germinated under ultraviolet-B (UVB), blue (B), green (G), red (R), far-red (FR) light, or darkness. Light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures provided all spectrum treatments except for UVB, which was provided by a narrow-band fluorescent light. The photon flux density at seed level was ≈18 μmol·m−2·s−1 for B, G, R, and FR, and 0.4 μmol·m−2·s−1 for UVB. Based on daily germination observations, final germination percentage, germination onset time, germination time spread, and germination speed were compared among different spectrum treatments for each of the plant genotypes. There were no promotive effects on final germination percentage, germination onset time, and germination time spread under the narrow-band lights compared with darkness. For all plant genotypes, B had a similar effect as darkness on seed germination. FR inhibited seed germination relative to darkness by reducing final germination percentage by 31%–88%, delaying germination onset time by 30%–40%, and decreasing germination speed by 11%–48% in some genotypes. Under R, G, and UVB compared with darkness, germination speed was promoted for begonia ‘Apricot Shade’, a light-requiring genotype, and inhibited for vinca ‘Burgundy’, a light-inhibited genotype. Therefore, lighting at low levels used in our study is unnecessary for seed germination of the tested species except light-requiring genotypes, where R, G, and UVB are the most promotive among the tested narrow-band lights.
TMDlib2 and TMDplotter: a platform for 3D hadron structure studies
Authors: Abdulov N. A. , Bacchetta A. , Baranov S. , Bermudez Martinez A. , Bertone V. , Bissolotti C. , Candelise V. , Banos L. I. Estevez , Bury M. , Connor P. L. S. , Favart L. , Guzman F. , Hautmann F. , Hentschinski M. , Jung H. , Keersmaekers L. , Kotikov A. , Kusina A. , Kutak K. , Lelek A. , Lidrych J. , Lipatov A. , Lykasov G. , Malyshev M. , Mendizabal M. , Prestel S. , Barzani S. Sadeghi , Sapeta S. , Schmitz M. , Signori A. , Sorrentino G. , Monfared S. Taheri , van Hameren A. , van Kampen A. M. , Bemden M. Vanden , Vladimirov A. , Wang Q. , Yang H.
Published: August 2021

A common library, TMDlib2, for Transverse-Momentum-Dependent distributions (TMDs) and unintegrated parton distributions (uPDFs) is described, which allows for easy access of commonly used TMDs and uPDFs, providing a three-dimensional (3D) picture of the partonic structure of hadrons. The tool TMDplotter allows for web-based plotting of distributions implemented in TMDlib2, together with collinear pdfs as available in LHAPDF.
Folding model analysis of 28Si elastic scattering using different density distributions
Authors: Aygun M.
Published: August 2021

The elastic scattering cross-sections of [Formula: see text]Si projectile by [Formula: see text]Al, [Formula: see text]Si, [Formula: see text]Ni, [Formula: see text]Ni and [Formula: see text]Pb targets are analyzed using the double folding model based on the effective M3Y interaction which is known as the most popular density independent form. In the calculations of the double folding model, 16 different density distributions of [Formula: see text]Si nucleus are examined. A very good agreement between experimental data and theoretical results is obtained, and also the literature results support our results. In addition, dependence on incident energy, target atomic number and target mass number of the imaginary potential depth is studied, and new and global equations are proposed.
Violation of unitarity in gravitational subregions
Authors: Wall Aron C.
Published: August 2021

This essay contends that in quantum gravity, some spatial regions do not admit a unitary Hilbert space. Because the gravitational path integral spontaneously breaks CPT symmetry, “states” with negative probability can be identified on either side of trapped surfaces. I argue that these negative norm states are tolerable, by analogy to quantum mechanics. This viewpoint suggests a resolution of the firewall paradox, similar to black hole complementarity. Implications for cosmology are briefly discussed.
Torsors for difference algebraic groups
Authors: Bachmayr Annette , Wibmer Michael
Published: August 2021

We introduce a cohomology set for groups defined by algebraic difference equations and show that it classifies torsors under the group action. This allows us to compute all torsors for large classes of groups. We also present an application to the Galois theory of differential equations depending on a discrete parameter.
Paramedial quasigroups of prime and prime square order
Authors: Semanišinová Žaneta
Published: August 2021

We prove that, for every odd prime number [Formula: see text], there are [Formula: see text] paramedial quasigroups of order [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] paramedial quasigroups of order [Formula: see text], up to isomorphism. We present a complete list of those which are simple.
MACROSCOPIC FUNDAMENTAL FLOW DIAGRAMS OF A SPIRITUALLY MOTIVATED CROWD
Authors: SUBRAMANIAN GAYATHRI HARIHARA , KARTHIKA P.S. , VERMA ASHISH
Published: August 2021

Managing and monitoring large crowds pose a challenge to the crowd management authorities. Understanding the crowd dynamics in terms of its macroscopic parameters and its application to assess the maximum number of people likely to gather at a location or the number of people to be allowed to pass a point can go a long way in preventing situations of crowd risk. This paper presents a comparison of the fundamental diagrams of pedestrian flow at different locations of Kumbh mela and brings out differences in the flow patterns between a general crowd and a spiritually motivated crowd. The effect of spiritual motivation is reflected in terms of higher speeds of pedestrians at some locations and continuous flow despite higher densities. These results fill a significant research gap in the literature by highlighting the unique characteristics of spiritual crowd flows that must be incorporated for simulating a realistic crowd.
The Disruptive Effect of Technological Innovation in the Tourist Accommodation Industry
Authors: González Eva Porras , Martín Martín José María , Martínez Jose Manuel Guaita , Khodja Hamid Hamoudi Amar
Published: August 2021

This work focuses on the disruptive effect generated by online tourist accommodation platforms. This technological innovation has brought about changes not only in the tourism industry, but also in the lives of the citizens of host communities. This research analyzes the perception that citizens economically dependent on tourism have the socio-economic impacts linked to the activity of these online platforms. The field work was carried out in Spain in April 2020 by means of a survey in which citizens residing in one of the main tourist cities in the country took part. This analysis has allowed for the construction of four categories of positive impacts and four categories of negative impacts, all linked to disruptive technological innovation in the tourism sector. The most salient impact is related to how citizens economically dependent on tourism assess the changes taking place in the existing business network. This group’s assessment might possibly be the consequence of a shift in the focus of local businesses, which have gone from resident-oriented businesses to tourist-oriented businesses.

The most salient impact is related to how citizens economically dependent on tourism assess the changes taking place in the existing business network.
Eight Building Blocks for Managing Digital Transformation
Authors: Buck Christoph , Probst Marques Clara , Rosemann Michael
Published: August 2021

Organizations across all sectors and industries are facing the need for structural change towards a digital future. Rapid developments in digital technologies and their easy accessibility are changing organizations’ competitive environment and require the design and implementation of a sustainable digital transformation. To master this organizational task in a targeted manner and align it strategically, organizations must carry out a comprehensive analysis of the digital transformation fields of action. The developed integrated framework for digital transformation is structured into eight building blocks and associated action items, and includes a systematic literature analysis. It serves as a valuable framework and guideline on digital change for organizations.