bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of endometrial preparation for frozen embryo transfer on maternal and neonatal outcomes: a review
Authors: Lee Jacqueline C. , Badell Martina L. , Kawwass Jennifer F.
Published: February 2022

The use of frozen embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technology (ART) has steadily increased since development in the early 1980’s. While there are many benefits to delayed frozen embryo transfer, certain adverse perinatal outcomes are noted to be more common in these transfers when compared to fresh transfers, specifically hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Frozen embryo transfers require coordination between the embryo’s developmental stage and the endometrial environment and can occur in either ovulatory or programmed cycles. Though there is no consensus on the ideal method of endometrial preparation prior to frozen embryo transfer, emerging data suggests differences in maternal and neonatal outcomes, specifically increased rates of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in programmed cycles. Other reported differences include an increased risk of cesarean delivery, placenta accreta, postpartum hemorrhage, low birthweight, preterm birth, post term delivery, macrosomia, large for gestational age, and premature rupture of membranes in programmed cycles. The mechanism by which these differences exist could reflect inherent differences in groups selected for each type of endometrial preparation, the role of super physiologic hormone environments in programmed cycles, or the unique contributions of the corpus luteum in ovulatory cycles that are not present in programmed cycles. Given that existing studies are largely retrospective and have several key limitations, further investigation is needed. Confirmation of these findings has implications for current practice patterns and could enhance understanding of the mechanisms behind important adverse perinatal outcomes in those pursuing assisted reproduction.
Typical and atypical properties of peripheral nerve allografts enable novel strategies to repair segmental-loss injuries
Authors: Bittner George D. , Bushman Jared S. , Ghergherehchi Cameron L. , Roballo Kelly C. S. , Shores Jaimie T. , Smith Tyler A.
Published: February 2022

We review data showing that peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) that involve the loss of a nerve segment are the most common type of traumatic injury to nervous systems. Segmental-loss PNIs have a poor prognosis compared to other injuries, especially when one or more mixed motor/sensory nerves are involved and are typicallythemajor source of disability associated with extremities that have sustained other injuries. Relatively little progress has been made, since the treatment of segmental loss PNIs with cable autografts that are currently the gold standard for repair has slow and incomplete (often non-existent) functional recovery. Viable peripheral nerve allografts (PNAs) to repair segmental-loss PNIs have not been experimentally or clinically useful due to their immunological rejection, Wallerian degeneration (WD) of anucleate donor graft and distal host axons, and slow regeneration of host axons, leading to delayed re-innervation and producing atrophy or degeneration of distal target tissues. However, two significant advances have recently been made using viable PNAs to repair segmental-loss PNIs: (1) hydrogel release of Treg cells that reduce the immunological response and (2) PEG-fusion of donor PNAs that reduce the immune response, reduce and/or suppress much WD, immediately restore axonal conduction across the donor graft and re-innervate many target tissues, and restore much voluntary behavioral functions within weeks, sometimes to levels approaching that of uninjured nerves. We review the rather sparse cellular/biochemical data for rejection of conventional PNAs and their acceptance following Treg hydrogel and PEG-fusion of PNAs, as well as cellular and systemic data for their acceptance and remarkable behavioral recovery in the absence of tissue matching or immune suppression. We also review typical and atypical characteristics of PNAs compared with other types of tissue or organ allografts, problems and potential solutions for PNA use and storage, clinical implications and commercial availability of PNAs, and future possibilities for PNAs to repair segmental-loss PNIs.
Sox2 overexpression alleviates noise-induced hearing loss by inhibiting inflammation-related hair cell apoptosis
Authors: Chen Diyan , Jia Gaogan , Zhang Yanping , Mao Huanyu , Zhao Liping , Li Wenyan , Chen Yan , Ni Yusu
Published: February 2022

Background

The transcription factor Sox2 plays important roles in the developmental processes of multiple organs and tissues. However, whether Sox2 can protect mature or terminally differentiated cells against injury is still unknown.

Methods

We investigated the roles of Sox2 in cochlear hair cells, which are terminally differentiated cells, using conditional transgenic mice and several hearing loss models.

Results

Sox2 overexpression dramatically mitigated the degree of cochlear hair cell loss when exposed to ototoxic drugs. Noise-induced apoptosis of cochlear hair cells and hearing loss were also significantly alleviated by Sox2 overexpression. Notably, noise-induced upregulation of pro-inflammatory factors such as TNF-α and IL6 was inhibited by Sox2 overexpression. Then we used lipopolysaccharide to clarify the effect of Sox2 on cochlear inflammation, and Sox2 overexpression significantly inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced upregulation of pro-inflammatory factors and alleviated inflammation-related cochlear hair cell death.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate a novel protective role of Sox2 in mature and terminally differentiated cochlear hair cells by inhibiting inflammation.
Leaving no woman or girl behind? Inclusion and participation in digital maternal health programs in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Udenigwe Ogochukwu , Yaya Sanni
Published: February 2022

Across sub-Saharan Africa where access to adequate maternal healthcare is fraught with myriad challenges, especially for hard-to-reach populations, digital health technologies offer opportunities to improve maternal health outcomes. Digital health can circumvent inefficiencies in the traditional healthcare system and address challenges such as limited access to in-person medical consultations, and poor access to skilled birth attendants and health promotion activities. These benefits notwithstanding, digital health can be exclusionary. Too often, digital maternal health programs are not designed with a focus on equity in distribution nor are they designed from a gender equity standpoint. In this paper, we illustrate exclusionary practices of digital health programs through an extensive literature review of digital maternal health programs across sub-Saharan Africa. Taking an intersectional approach, we discuss how women are most vulnerable and excluded at the intersection of gender, literacy, and disability. Tackling exclusionary practices in digital health is crucial to ensure that no woman or girl is left behind.
The “One Health” approach in the face of Covid-19: how radical should it be?
Authors: Sironi Vittorio A. , Inglese Silvia , Lavazza Andrea
Published: February 2022

Background

The 2020-2021 coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic is just the latest epidemic event that requires us to rethink and change our understanding of health. Health should no longer be conceived only in relation to human beings, but in unitary terms, as a dimension that connects humans, animals, plants, and the environment (holistic view, One Health). In general, alterations occurring in this articulated chain of life trigger a domino effect.

Methodology

In this paper, we review the One Health paradigm in the light of the Covid-19 pandemic and distinguish two approaches within it that might be dubbed the Prudent one and the Radical one. Each approach is structured in three levels – epistemological, medical, and ethical.

Results

In this way, we show how we humans can better address the pandemic today and how, in the future, we can treat the whole living system better, by renouncing our anthropocentric perspective on health.

Conclusion

We hold that the Prudent approach can be very helpful, and we discuss the medical and ethical issues related to it. We also consider the Radical view and the epistemological turn it requires compared to the Prudent one.
Considerations on diagnosis and surveillance measures of PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome: clinical and genetic study in a series of Spanish patients
Authors: Pena-Couso Laura , Ercibengoa María , Mercadillo Fátima , Gómez-Sánchez David , Inglada-Pérez Lucía , Santos María , Lanillos Javier , Gutiérrez-Abad David , Hernández Almudena , Carbonell Pablo , Letón Rocío , Robledo Mercedes , Rodríguez-Antona Cristina , Perea José , Urioste Miguel ,   PHTS Working Group, Alonso Miguel Ángel , Andrés Raquel , Arévalo Sara , del Mar Arias María , Balmaña Judith , Beristain Elena , Blanco Ignacio , Boronat Mauro , Brunet Joan , Cózar María Victoria , del Campo Miguel , Díaz Arantza , Gabau Elisabeth , Barcina María Jesús , González Margarita , Guitart Miriam , Hernán Imma , Hernández Héctor Salvador , Hernando Susana , Lacambra Carmen , Lasa Adriana , Lastra Enrique , Llort Gemma , del Rosario Marín María , Marrupe David , Martínez Francisco , Martínez Víctor , Martorell Loreto , Orera María , Pedrinaci Susana , Pérez Pedro , Pineda Marta , Plasencia Ana María , Cajal Teresa Ramón y , Robles Luis , Rodà Diana , Rodríguez Nuria , Rosell Jordi , Sáez Raquel , Salvat Mónica , Sánchez Antonio , Santana Alfredo , Soto José Luis , Toll Agustín , Tuneu Anna , Vázquez Carlos
Published: February 2022

Background

The limited knowledge about the PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS) makes its diagnosis a challenging task. We aimed to define the clinical and genetic characteristics of this syndrome in the Spanish population and to identify new genes potentially associated with the disease.

Results

We reviewed the clinical data collected through a specific questionnaire in a series of 145 Spanish patients with a phenotypic features compatible with PHTS and performed molecular characterization through several approaches including next generation sequencing and whole exome sequencing (WES). Macrocephaly, mucocutaneous lesions, gastrointestinal polyposis and obesity are prevalent phenotypic features in PHTS and help predict the presence of a PTEN germline variant in our population. We also find that PHTS patients are at risk to develop cancer in childhood or adolescence. Furthermore, we observe a high frequency of variants in exon 1 of PTEN, which are associated with renal cancer and overexpression of KLLN and PTEN. Moreover, WES revealed variants in genes like NEDD4 that merit further research.

Conclusions

This study expands previously reported findings in other PHTS population studies and makes new contributions regarding clinical and molecular aspects of PHTS, which are useful for translation to the clinic and for new research lines.
Exploring intersectionality: an international yet individual issue
Authors: Alani Zainab
Published: February 2022

This article explores both reported and personal experiences of intersectionality within the healthcare system, which is often due to systemic inequalities as well as deep ingrained perceptions and opinions. With my perspective as both a medical student and rare disease patient battling generalised Myasthenia Gravis, I uncover and expose the aspects of intersectionality which are often brushed under the carpet. Moreover, I identify potential routes which we may collectively, as both clinicians and patients, embark upon to navigate our way out of this systemic snare. For those reading and engaging with this article, I endeavour to humanise the publicised figures surrounding rare disease and emphasise that within each figure there are patients, just like myself, who too may be experiencing the multifactorial issues arising from intersectionality. Furthermore, the coronavirus pandemic has highlighted and emphasised the pre-existing divide in the treatment of societal groups, for those both receiving and delivering care. We have long attempted to plaster over this chronic wound however the distressing outcomes of this pandemic have forced us to address this shameful truth from its core. Intersectionality is a disease which is destroying our healthcare system from within. However, unlike many rare diseases, intersectionality can be abolished.
Construction and validation of a transcription factors-based prognostic signature for ovarian cancer
Authors: Cheng Qingyuan , Li Liman , Yu Mingxia
Published: February 2022

Background

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common and lethal malignant tumors worldwide and the prognosis of OC remains unsatisfactory. Transcription factors (TFs) are demonstrated to be associated with the clinical outcome of many types of cancers, yet their roles in the prognostic prediction and gene regulatory network in patients with OC need to be further investigated.

Methods

TFs from GEO datasets were collected and analyzed. Differential expression analysis, WGCNA and Cox-LASSO regression model were used to identify the hub-TFs and a prognostic signature based on these TFs was constructed and validated. Moreover, tumor-infiltrating immune cells were analyzed, and a nomogram containing age, histology, FIGO_stage and TFs-based signature were established. Potential biological functions, pathways and the gene regulatory network of TFs in signature was also explored.

Results

In this study, 6 TFs significantly associated with the prognosis of OC were identified. These TFs were used to build up a TFs-based signature for predicting the survival of patients with OC. Patients with OC in training and testing datasets were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups, according to the median value of risk scores determined by the signature. The two groups were further used to validate the performance of the signature, and the results showed the TFs-based signature had effective prediction ability. Immune infiltrating analysis was conducted and abundance of B cells naïve, T cells CD4 memory resting, Macrophages M2 and Mast cells activated were significantly higher in high-risk group. A nomogram based on the signature was established and illustrated good predictive efficiencies for 1, 2, and 3-year overall survival. Furthermore, the construction of the TFs-target gene regulatory network revealed the potential mechanisms of TFs in OC.

Conclusions

To our best knowledge, it is for the first time to develop a prognostic signature based on TFs in OC. The TFs-based signature is proven to be effective in predicting the survival of patients with OC. Our study may facilitate the clinical decision-making for patients with OC and help to elucidate the underlying mechanism of TFs in OC.
Identification of key genes associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and ovarian cancer using an integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Zou Juan , Li Yukun , Liao Nianchun , Liu Jue , Zhang Qunfeng , Luo Min , Xiao Jiao , Chen Yanhua , Wang Mengjie , Chen Kexin , Zeng Juan , Mo Zhongcheng
Published: February 2022

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests a strong association between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and ovarian cancer (OC), but the potential molecular mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we identified previously unrecognized genes that are significantly correlated with PCOS and OC via bioinformatics.

Materials and methods

Multiple bioinformatic analyses, such as differential expression analysis, univariate Cox analysis, functional and pathway enrichment analysis, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network construction, survival analysis, and immune infiltration analysis, were utilized. We further evaluated the effect of OGN on FSHR expression via immunofluorescence.

Results

TCGA-OC, GSE140082 (for OC) and GSE34526 (for PCOS) datasets were downloaded. Twelve genes, including RNF144B, LPAR3, CRISPLD2, JCHAIN, OR7E14P, IL27RA, PTPRD, STAT1, NR4A1, OGN, GALNT6 and CXCL11, were identified as signature genes. Drug sensitivity analysis showed that OGN might represent a hub gene in the progression of PCOS and OC. Experimental analysis found that OGN could increase FSHR expression, indicating that OGN could regulate the hormonal response in PCOS and OC. Furthermore, correlation analysis indicated that OGN function might be closely related to m6A and ferroptosis.

Conclusions

Our study identified a 12-gene signature that might be involved in the prognostic significance of OC. Furthermore, the hub gene OGN represent a significant gene involved in OC and PCOS progression by regulating the hormonal response.
HyperChIP: identification of hypervariable signals across ChIP-seq or ATAC-seq samples
Authors: Chen Haojie , Tu Shiqi , Yuan Chongze , Tian Feng , Zhang Yijing , Sun Yihua , Shao Zhen
Published: February 2022

Identifying genomic regions with hypervariable ChIP-seq or ATAC-seq signals across given samples is essential for large-scale epigenetic studies. In particular, the hypervariable regions across tumors from different patients indicate their heterogeneity and can contribute to revealing potential cancer subtypes and the associated epigenetic markers. We present HyperChIP as the first complete statistical tool for the task. HyperChIP uses scaled variances that account for the mean-variance dependence to rank genomic regions, and it increases the statistical power by diminishing the influence of true hypervariable regions on model fitting. A pan-cancer case study illustrates the practical utility of HyperChIP.
A weighted mean Hausdorff type operator and its summability matrix domain
Authors: Kara Merve İlkhan , Roopaei Hadi
Published: February 2022

In this research, we firstly introduce a criterion for factorizing an operator based on the gamma operator, and as a result we present two factorizations for the Cesàro and Hilbert operators. As another point of view, we study some properties of the matrix domain associated with the gamma matrix of ordernand compute the duals of this space. Moreover, we compute the norm of well-known operators into, from, and on the gamma sequence space.
Neutralization of HMGB1 improves fracture healing and γδ T lymphocyte counts at the fracture site in a polytrauma rat model
Authors: Muire Preeti J. , Avila Joshua J. , Lofgren Alicia L. , Wenke Joseph C.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Delayed fracture healing is a common consequence of polytrauma (PT) occurring in patients with multiple injuries. We believe that when early release of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) molecules from necrotic tissues exceed their normal levels in blood, they dysregulate immune responses associated with normal healing. This study investigates the detrimental effect of such dysregulate immune responses by targeting HMGB1 in a PT rat model with debilitating injuries. We hypothesized that neutralization of extracellular HMGB1 immediately post-trauma would ameliorate local immune dysregulation and improve fracture healing in a PT rat model.

Methods

PT rats received a single dose of either anti-rat HMGB1 polyclonal antibody (PT-Ab HMGB1) or IgY isotype (PT-IgY), were left untreated (PT-C), or had a single injury/osteotomy only (OST). Fracture healing was evaluated by micro-computed tomography (µCT) and histology at 5 weeks; and macrophages and T cell counts within the fracture site were determined with flow cytometry  at 1 week.

Results

Notably, bone regeneration within the fracture site in PT-Ab HMGB1 rats was improved with comparable connective tissue organization than PT-C rats. Further, only γδTCR+ T cells, but not macrophages and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, were diminished at the fracture site in PT-C and PT-IgY rats. Interestingly, the PT-Ab HMGB1 rats had increased γδTCR+ T cells compared to PT-C and PT-IgY, suggesting their potential role in regulating fracture healing.

Conclusions

Therefore, the initial burst of systemic HMGB1 following trauma may have a role in regulating bone regeneration via the modulation of a subclass of T cells within the fracture site, suggesting it’s importance as a therapeutic target in PT to combat immune dysregulation and delayed fracture healing.
Ethnic Politics in China
Authors: Zhou Xing
Published: February 2022

The development of Ethnic Politics in China can date back to 80 years ago. As of today, its disciplinary system and norms have been established in a systematic approach, and many significant academic achievements have been made. After having systematically reviewed the academic history of Frontier Politics originating in the 1940s and the Ethnic Politics in the late 1980s and early 1990s, this paper expounds on their respective backgrounds and the consciousness of the academic discipline based on the reality of a multi-ethnic country. The paper goes on by elaborating on the progress made in the disciplinary development of Chinese Ethnic Politics at the beginning of twenty-first century, and summarizing the major achievements made over the past 20 years. Finally, the paper points out that more than one research approach (“plurality”) exists in the field of Ethnic Politics, indicating the respective academic significance of these approaches for the study of issues related to the Chinese ethnic politics.
Diagnosis and treatment of macrocytic anemia in a perinatal common marmoset: a case report
Authors: Kim Jong-Min , Kwak Jina , Lim Hyun-Jin , Kim Joo-Il , Kang Byeong-Cheol
Published: February 2022

Background

The common marmoset is widely used in current biomedical research for various research fields. We observed macrocytic anemia in a perinatal common marmoset with gradual weight loss and diarrhea. The objective of this case report is to describe the diagnosis and treatment of macrocytic anemia in a perinatal common marmoset.

Case presentation

A 7-year-old female common marmoset showed clinical signs of gradual weight loss and intermittent diarrhea beginning 3 months after giving birth. Macrocytic anemia was diagnosed due to a decreased red blood cell (RBC) count, low hemoglobin level, and increased mean corpuscular volume (MCV). Multivitamins containing cobalamin and folate were administered for 7 days, and the patient’s RBC count recovered to near the normal range with this treatment.

Conclusions

Macrocytic anemia can be diagnosed by evaluating the MCV on a complete blood count (CBC) and cobalamin or folate levels and be treated by supplementation with cobalamin and folate. Such supplements may be needed during pregnancy and lactation in female common marmosets and/or in animals with chronic diarrhea.
Mucinous cystadenocarcinoma of the breast: a new entity with broad differentials—a case report
Authors: Kaur Kanwalpreet , Shah Ashini , Gandhi Jahnvi , Trivedi Priti
Published: February 2022

Background

Mucinous cystadenocarcinoma is a rare and recently described primary breast cancer with strikingly similar histomorphology to ovarian, pancreatic, and gastrointestinal counterparts. The diagnosis cannot be made until the metastatic lesion is ruled out.

Case presentation

We are reporting the case of a 65-year-old woman with primary mucinous cystadenocarcinoma of the breast while exploring clinicopathological features and approach to diagnosis. Though the immunohistochemistry panel of CK7, CK20, CDX2, SATB2, PAX8, mammoglobin, and GATA3 plays a crucial role in ruling out metastasis but aberrant CK20 positivity was seen in our case, the final diagnosis was made after a complete radiological workup. We also noted strong membranous HER2-protein expression and HER2-gene amplification by fluorescence in situ hybridization while in literature this tumor is reported to show mainly triple-negative basal type immunophenotype.

Conclusion

A combined clinic-radio-immunohistochemical approach is essential to make a diagnosis of primary mucinous cystadenocarcinoma.
Accurate 3D frequency-domain seismic wave modeling with the wavelength-adaptive 27-point finite-difference stencil: A tool for full-waveform inversion
Authors: Aghamiry Hossein S. , Gholami Ali , Combe Laure , Operto Stéphane
Published: February 2022

Efficient frequency-domain full-waveform inversion (FWI) of long-offset node data can be performed with a few frequencies. The seismic response of these frequencies can be computed with compact finite-difference stencils on regular Cartesian grid with direct or hybrid direct/iterative methods. Compactness, which is necessary to mitigate the fill-in induced by the lower-upper factorization, is implemented with second-order stencils, whereas accuracy is achieved by building a consistent mass matrix and a compound stiffness matrix with optimal weights so that the stencil covers the eight cells surrounding the central point, leading to a 27-point stencil. Classical approaches estimate constant weights by jointly minimizing numerical dispersion in homogeneous media for several numbers of grid points per wavelength ([Formula: see text]). Then, the impedance matrix is built by using these constant weights at each central point covering the heterogeneous subsurface model, leading to nonuniform wavefield accuracy. Instead, we estimate [Formula: see text]-dependent weights once and for all by minimizing dispersion separately for each value of [Formula: see text] in a range found in FWI applications. Then, we build the impedance matrix without computational overhead by selecting at each central point the weights corresponding to the local [Formula: see text], hence leading to a wavelength-adaptive stencil. This separate approach with adaptive weights makes wavefield accuracy uniform. We benchmark wavefields, which are computed in several 3D large-scale subsurface models with a sparse multifrontal direct solver and the nonadaptive/adaptive stencils, against analytical solutions when available and the highly accurate discretization-free convergent Born series method. Each benchmark reveals the higher accuracy of the adaptive stencil relative to the nonadaptive one. In the presence of sharp contrasts, the adaptive stencil also is more accurate than a classical [Formula: see text] finite-different time-domain staggered-grid stencil. The relevance of the adaptive stencil is finally illustrated with a 3D FWI case study in the 3.5–13 Hz frequency band.
Experimental investigation on dynamic and static rock mechanical behavior, failure modes, and sequences of frequent interbedded sand and shale reservoirs
Authors: Xie Runcheng , Zhou Wen , Liu Chang , Yin Shuai , Radwan Ahmed E. , Lei Wei , Cai Wenli
Published: February 2022

High variability in diagenetic strength and rock mechanical properties in interbedded sand and shale necessitates a sustained interest in the study of the dynamic and static rock mechanical behavior and failure modes. We have analyzed the rock mechanical behavior, rupture characteristics, and sequences of the clastic reservoirs of the Xu 5 member, Western Sichuan Depression, China. The results indicate that the Xu 5 shale can produce longer plastic creep behavior than tight sandstone at the same load rate. This causes greater stresses to build up inside the shale than in adjacent sandstone formations. The average internal friction angle of sandstone is 43°, whereas the average internal friction angle of shale is 33°. The failure modes of the Xu 5 member sandstone are mainly brittle-tensile failure and brittle X-type shear failure. We observed that the tensile rupture is dominant, accounting for approximately 75.2%. Shale failure forms mainly include plastic-tensile failure and X-type shear failure, in which shear failure accounts for approximately 67.9%. The sequence of failures of similar clastic reservoirs is generally tensile failure or tensile-shear failure to extension failure. We found that the Xu 5 shale has high plasticity, and the stress conditions required for its failure are higher and more complicated. In addition, our test results indicate that, for the same lithology, the tensile failure is the initial rupture rather than shear failure.
Management of lithium intoxication
Authors: Murphy Niamh , Redahan Lynn , Lally John
Published: February 2022

Lithium is a gold standard maintenance treatment in bipolar affective disorder. It has a narrow therapeutic range, and at higher serum lithium levels there is a risk of adverse effects and toxicity. There are three patterns of lithium intoxication: acute, acute-on-chronic and chronic. We describe risk factors for lithium intoxication, mechanisms of toxicity and clinical symptoms seen in lithium intoxication. We describe both the acute and chronic effects of lithium toxicity. Lithium intoxication may be life-threatening and associated with longer-term sequelae. The management of lithium intoxication involves determining the type of intoxication. We discuss treatment strategies aimed at reducing absorption and increasing elimination of lithium. We discuss clinical indications for extracorporeal methods such as dialysis, which are used to limit the time and degree of exposure of the central nervous system to toxic lithium concentrations. Haemodialysis is the most rapid method of eliminating lithium from the body, but careful monitoring is required. Preventive strategies to mitigate the risk for lithium intoxication are discussed.
Beyond the ‘normal’ worries: detection and treatment of perinatal anxiety and anxiety disorders
Authors: Lorenzo Laura S.
Published: February 2022

In clinical psychiatry, it is common to see pregnant and postpartum patients who express excessive anxiety and concerns about pregnancy or childbearing. This implies the need to distinguish between symptoms that could be considered to be an expected reaction to the situation, the diagnosis of an anxiety disorder or the presence of pregnancy-related (pregnancy-specific) anxiety. The last presents as a specific clinical phenomenon, identified in the literature as concerns exclusively linked to the situation of pregnancy or childbirth. In this article I review key points in the differential diagnosis of perinatal anxiety and its impact on both the pregnancy and the baby, as well as aspects of detection and diagnosis. I also give a brief summary of possible management approaches and treatments.
Late Breast Cancer Survivorship: Side Effects and Care Recommendations
Authors: Jahan Nusrat , Cathcart-Rake Elizabeth J. , Ruddy Kathryn J.
Published: February 2022

The Oncology Grand Rounds series is designed to place original reports published in the Journal into clinical context. A case presentation is followed by a description of diagnostic and management challenges, a review of the relevant literature, and a summary of the authors' suggested management approaches. The goal of this series is to help readers better understand how to apply the results of key studies, including those published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, to patients seen in their own clinical practice.
Dynamical system study for accretion discs: Differences between dark energy and adiabatic profiles
Authors: Deogharia Giridhari , Biswas Ritabrata
Published: February 2022

In this article accreting scenarios for adiabatic and dark energy are both chosen to construct phase portrait analysis. Components of Navier-Stokes equations and equation of state are picked to construct the nonlinear dynamics of accretion. Central singularities are observed to be formed in the phase diagram. Different regions in the phase diagrams are partitioned to study the nature of the gradients for radial speed and sonic speed. This study may shed some light on the inner disc activities.
Pax6 loss alters the morphological and electrophysiological development of mouse prethalamic neurons
Authors: Tian Tian , Quintana-Urzainqui Idoia , Kozić Zrinko , Pratt Thomas , Price David J.
Published: February 2022

Pax6 is a well-known regulator of early neuroepithelial progenitor development. Its constitutive loss has a particularly strong effect on the developing prethalamus, causing it to become extremely hypoplastic. To overcome this difficulty in studying the long-term consequences of Pax6 loss for prethalamic development, we used conditional mutagenesis to delete Pax6 at the onset of neurogenesis and studied the developmental potential of the mutant prethalamic neurons in vitro. We found that Pax6 loss affected their rates of neurite elongation, the location and length of their axon initial segments, and their electrophysiological properties. Our results broaden our understanding of the long-term consequences of Pax6 deletion in the developing mouse forebrain, suggesting that it can have cell-autonomous effects on the structural and functional development of some neurons.
Micro-biopsies: a less invasive technique for investigating human muscle fiber mechanics
Authors: Rice Paige E. , Nimphius Sophia , Abbiss Chris , Zwetsloot Kevin A. , Nishikawa Kiisa
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this investigation was to demonstrate that muscle fiber mechanics can be assessed on micro-biopsies obtained from human medial gastrocnemii. Three micro-biopsy samples were collected from female dancers (n=15). Single fibers and fiber bundles were isolated and passively stretched from 2.4 to 3.0 µm at 0.015 and 0.04 µm s−1 (n=50 fibers total) and in five increments at 0.12 µm s−1 (n=42 fibers total). Muscle fibers were then activated isometrically at 2.4 µm (n=4 fibers total) and 3.0 µm (n=3 fibers total). Peak stress and steady-state stress were significantly greater (P<0.0001) after stretching at 0.04 µm s−1 than at 0.015 µm s−1. Furthermore, peak stresses and steady-state stresses increased non-linearly with fiber length (P<0.0001). We conclude that active and passive muscle fiber mechanics can be investigated using tissue from micro-biopsies.
Chiral Supramolecular Polymer Formed via Host-Guest Complexation of an Octaphosphonate Biscavitand and a Chiral Diammonium Guest
Authors: Hamada Koki , Shimoyama Daisuke , Hirao Takehiro , Haino Takeharu
Published: February 2022

Chiral supramolecular polymers were constructed through the host-guest complexation of an octaphosphonate biscavitand and a chiral diammonium guest. Isothermal titration calorimetry determined that host-guest complexation was enthalpy- and entropy-favored with high binding constants. Diffusion-ordered NMR spectroscopy and viscometry of the host-guest solution revealed that supramolecular polymerization occurred, which most likely followed a ring-chain mechanism. The cyclic oligomers and the supramolecular polymer chains were visualized by atomic force microscopy. Circular dichroism was observed when the octaphosphonate biscavitand and the chiral diammonium guest were mixed, which suggested that chirally twisted supramolecular polymers were formed.
Reshaping Adolescents' Gender Attitudes: Evidence from a School-Based Experiment in India
Authors: Dhar Diva , Jain Tarun , Jayachandran Seema
Published: February 2022

This paper evaluates an intervention in India that engaged adolescent girls and boys in classroom discussions about gender equality for two years, aiming to reduce their support for societal norms that restrict women's and girls' opportunities. Using a randomized controlled trial, we find that the program made attitudes more supportive of gender equality by 0.18 standard deviations, or, equivalently, converted 16 percent of regressive attitudes. When we resurveyed study participants two years after the intervention had ended, the effects had persisted. The program also led to more gender-equal self-reported behavior, and we find weak evidence that it affected two revealed-preference measures. (JEL D63, D91, I21, J13, J16, 012)
Local Elites as State Capacity: How City Chiefs Use Local Information to Increase Tax Compliance in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Balán Pablo , Bergeron Augustin , Tourek Gabriel , Weigel Jonathan L.
Published: February 2022

This paper investigates the trade-offs between local elites and state agents as tax collectors in low-capacity states. We study a randomized policy experiment assigning neighborhoods of a large Congolese city to property tax collection by city chiefs or state agents. Chief collection raised tax compliance by 3.2 percentage points, increasing revenue by 44 percent. Chiefs collected more bribes but did not undermine tax morale or trust in government. Results from a hybrid treatment arm in which state agents consulted with chiefs before collection suggest that chief collectors achieved higher compliance by using local information to more efficiently target households with high payment propensities, rather than by being more effective at persuading households to pay conditional on having visited them. (JEL D73, D83, H24, H26, H71, O12, O17)
Does Race Matter for Police Use of Force? Evidence from 911 Calls
Authors: Hoekstra Mark , Sloan CarlyWill
Published: February 2022

This paper examines race and police use of force using data on 1.6 million 911 calls in two cities, neither of which allows for discretion in officer dispatch. Results indicate White officers increase force much more than minority officers when dispatched to more minority neighborhoods. Estimates indicate Black (Hispanic) civilians are 55 (75) percent more likely to experience any force, and five times as likely to experience a police shooting, compared to if White officers scaled up force similarly to minority officers. Additionally, 14 percent of White officers use excess force in Black neighborhoods relative to our statistical benchmark. (JEL H76, J15, K42, R23)
Misspecified Politics and the Recurrence of Populism
Authors: Levy Gilat , Razin Ronny , Young Alwyn
Published: February 2022

We develop a dynamic model of political competition between two groups that differ in their subjective model of the data generating process for a common outcome. One group has a simpler model than the other group as they ignore some relevant policy variables. We show that policy cycles must arise and that simple world views—which can be interpreted as populist world views—imply extreme policy choices. Periods in which those with a more complex model govern increase the specification error of the simpler world view, leading the latter to overestimate the positive impact of a few extreme policy actions. (JEL D72, D83, K42)
Estimating the percentage of patients who might benefit from proton beam therapy instead of X-ray radiotherapy
Authors: Burnet Neil G , Mee Thomas , Gaito Simona , Kirkby Norman F , Aitkenhead Adam H , Anandadas Carmel N , Aznar Marianne C , Barraclough Lisa H , Borst Gerben , Charlwood Frances C , Clarke Matthew , Colaco Rovel J , Crellin Adrian M , Defourney Noemie N , Hague Christina J , Harris Margaret , Henthorn Nicholas T , Hopkins Kirsten I , Hwang E , Ingram Sam P , Kirkby Karen J , Lee Lip W , Lines David , Lingard Zoe , Lowe Matthew , Mackay Ranald I , McBain Catherine A , Merchant Michael J , Noble David J , Pan Shermaine , Price James M , Radhakrishna Ganesh , Reboredo-Gil David , Salem Ahmed , Sashidharan Srijith , Sitch Peter , Smith Ed , Smith Edward AK , Taylor Michael J , Thomson David J , Thorp Nicola J , Underwood Tracy SA , Warmenhoven John W , Wylie James P , Whitfield Gillian
Published: February 2022

Objectives:

High-energy Proton Beam Therapy (PBT) commenced in England in 2018 and NHS England commissions PBT for 1.5% of patients receiving radical radiotherapy. We sought expert opinion on the level of provision.

Methods:

Invitations were sent to 41 colleagues working in PBT, most at one UK centre, to contribute by completing a spreadsheet. 39 responded: 23 (59%) completed the spreadsheet; 16 (41%) declined, arguing that clinical outcome data are lacking, but joined six additional site-specialist oncologists for two consensus meetings. The spreadsheet was pre-populated with incidence data from Cancer Research UK and radiotherapy use data from the National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service. ‘Mechanisms of Benefit’ of reduced growth impairment, reduced toxicity, dose escalation and reduced second cancer risk were examined.

Results:

The most reliable figure for percentage of radical radiotherapy patients likely to benefit from PBT was that agreed by 95% of the 23 respondents at 4.3%, slightly larger than current provision. The median was 15% (range 4–92%) and consensus median 13%. The biggest estimated potential benefit was from reducing toxicity, median benefit to 15% (range 4–92%), followed by dose escalation median 3% (range 0 to 47%); consensus values were 12 and 3%. Reduced growth impairment and reduced second cancer risk were calculated to benefit 0.5% and 0.1%.

Conclusions:

The most secure estimate of percentage benefit was 4.3% but insufficient clinical outcome data exist for confident estimates. The study supports the NHS approach of using the evidence base and developing it through randomised trials, non-randomised studies and outcomes tracking.

Advances in knowledge:

Less is known about the percentage of patients who may benefit from PBT than is generally acknowledged. Expert opinion varies widely. Insufficient clinical outcome data exist to provide robust estimates. Considerable further work is needed to address this, including international collaboration; much is already underway but will take time to provide mature data.
A pilot study assessing the similarity between core outcome sets and outcomes included in health technology assessments
Authors: Cox Peter , R. Williamson Paula , Dodd Susanna
Published: February 2022

Objective: Core outcome sets (COS) are an agreed standardised collection of outcomes created with representation from all key stakeholders (such as patients, clinicians, researchers), which should be reported as a minimum for all trials in that corresponding clinical area. There has been little research investigating the use of core outcomes in Health technology assessments (HTAs) and none in non-oncology HTAs. This study aimed to assess the similarity between COS and HTA outcomes.

Methods: Ten COS published between 2015 and 2019 were selected, with patient participation taken as a proxy measure for a high quality COS. The INAHTA database was used as a source to identify relevant HTAs, which were accessed through the hyperlinks provided. Outcomes selected for these assessments were categorised as either a specific, partial or no match compared to the COS. An additional cohort of non-oncology HTAs published between 2019 and 2021 were identified from the NICE website and compared against a relevant COS.

Results: Six hundred and fifty-one HTAs were matched to the ten COS areas, of which 119 were reviewed. Of a possible 1318 core outcome matches, there were 562 (43%) matches, 413 (31%) specific and 149 (11%) partial. NICE HTA matches against corresponding COS ranged from 44% to 100%, with a total of 78% (73/94) matches, 57 (61%) specific and 16 (17%) partial.

Conclusion: Further work is required to promote the awareness and implementation of COS within HTAs. The degree of matching between COS and NICE HTA outcomes is encouraging, demonstrating acceptance of COS by HTA producers.
Equilibria in Multiclass and Multidimensional Atomic Congestion Games
Authors: Klimm Max , Schütz Andreas
Published: February 2022

This paper studies the existence of pure Nash equilibria in atomic congestion games with different user classes where the cost of each resource depends on the aggregated demand of each class. A set of cost functions is called consistent for this class if all games with cost functions from the set have a pure Nash equilibrium. We give a complete characterization of consistent sets of cost functions showing that the only consistent sets of cost functions are sets of certain affine functions and sets of certain exponential functions. This characterization is also extended to a larger class of games where each atomic player may control flow that belongs to different classes.
Barriers and facilitators of using outcome measures in stroke rehabilitation in South Africa
Authors: Ntsiea Veronica , Mudzi Witnes , Maleka Douglas , Comley-White Nicolette , Pilusa Sonti
Published: February 2022

Background/Aims

Despite outcome measures being found to be useful in stroke rehabilitation, surveys have indicated that therapists do not use them regularly. The aim of this study was to identify outcome measures commonly used in the rehabilitation of patients with stroke in South Africa and the barriers and facilitators to their use.

Methods

A mixed-methods study was used. A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire to establish the outcome measures used by physiotherapists was undertaken first, and then qualitative interviews of physiotherapists were carried out to establish the barriers and facilitators to the use of outcome measures used in stroke rehabilitation.

Results

The most commonly used impairment level outcome measure was the Modified Ashworth Scale (84%), while for activity limitation and participation restriction the Berg Balance Scale (96%) and the Stroke Impact Scale (32%) were used. The factors found to have an influence on the choice of outcome measure included time taken to complete the outcome measure, ability to integrate the outcome measure into daily practice, funds to buy the outcome measure, and the physiotherapist's knowledge of the outcome measure.

Conclusions

The most commonly used outcome measures are the Modified Ashworth Scale, the Berg Balance Scale and the Stroke Impact Scale. Physiotherapists mainly use outcome measures that are freely available, easy to understand, not time consuming, require less space to administer and are meaningful to patients.
Measuring Four Personal Opportunities for Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Prohn Seb M. , Dinora Parthenia , Broda Michael D. , Bogenschutz Matthew , Lineberry Sarah
Published: February 2022

This study tests an empirically derived model for measuring personal opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) using National Core Indicators In-Person Survey (NCI-IPS) state and national datasets. The four personal opportunities measured, (a) privacy rights, (b) everyday choice, (c) community participation, and (d) expanded friendships, were informed by existing conceptualizations of service as well as NCI-IPS measures. Analyses confirmed the fit of a four-factor model and demonstrated that factors were significantly and positively correlated. To demonstrate the relationships between personal opportunities and personal and environmental characteristics, we estimated a structural equation model that regressed personal opportunities on age, gender, place of residence, and level of intellectual disability. Implications for using personal opportunities for evaluating service quality of IDD systems are discussed.
Low loss modified Bezier bend waveguide
Authors: Sun Tianyu , Xia Mingjun
Published: February 2022

We proposed and experimentally demonstrated a low loss modified Bezier bend for silicon and silicon nitride photonic integrated circuits. Both simulation and experimental results confirm that the modified Bezier bend can effectively reduce the bend loss for silicon and silicon nitride platform. At a bend radius of 1 µm, the reduction of bend loss from 0.367 dB/90° of circular bend and 0.35 dB/90° of traditional Bezier bend to 0.117 dB/90° of modified Bezier bend for silicon platform was experimentally demonstrated. For a 12-µm radius silicon nitride bend, the bend loss reduction from 0.65 dB/90° of circular bend and 0.575 dB/90° of traditional Bezier bend to 0.32 dB/90° was achieved. The proposed modified Bezier bend design can also be applied to other material systems, such as InP, LN, GaAs, etc., to effectively reduce the bend waveguide loss.
Double-layer focal plane microscopy for high throughput DNA sequencing
Authors: Zhang Xin , Kang Ke , Jiang Yanfang , He Jiaxue , Qiao Yanfeng
Published: February 2022

Throughput is one of the most important properties in DNA sequencing. We propose a novel double-layer focal plane microscopy that doubles the DNA sequencing throughput. Each fluorescence channel is divided into two tube lens channels by energy splitting, and the camera is adjusted to take images corresponding to different defocus positions of the objective, thus doubling the information capacity of the microscopy. The microscopy is applied to gene chip, which has high spatial frequency and good uniformity, so the simultaneous imaging of the two tubes has little influence on each other due to the spatial averaging effect. Experimental results show that the image signal to noise ratio (SNR) is reduced by 1%, while the sequencing throughput is doubled.