bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using in vivo functional and structural connectivity to predict chronic stroke aphasia deficits
Authors: Zhao Ying , Cox Christopher R , Lambon Ralph Matthew A , Halai Ajay D
Published: November 2022

Focal brain damage caused by stroke can result in aphasia and advances in cognitive neuroscience suggest that impairment may be associated with network-level disorder rather than just circumscribed cortical damage. Several studies have shown meaningful relationships between brain–behaviour using lesions; however, only a handful of studies have incorporated in vivo structural and functional connectivity. Patients with chronic post-stroke aphasia were assessed with structural (n = 68) and functional (n = 39) MRI to assess whether predicting performance can be improved with multiple modalities and if additional variance can be explained compared to lesion models alone. These neural measurements were used to construct models to predict four key language-cognitive factors: (i) phonology; (ii) semantics; (iii) executive function; and (iv) fluency. Our results showed that each factor (except executive ability) could be significantly related to each neural measurement alone; however, structural and functional connectivity models did not explain additional variance above the lesion models. We did find evidence that the structural and functional predictors may be linked to the core lesion sites. First, the predictive functional connectivity features were found to be located within functional resting-state networks identified in healthy controls, suggesting that the result might reflect functionally specific reorganization (damage to a node within a network can result in disruption to the entire network). Second, predictive structural connectivity features were located within core lesion sites, suggesting that multimodal information may be redundant in prediction modelling. In addition, we observed that the optimum sparsity within the regularized regression models differed for each behavioural component and across different imaging features, suggesting that future studies should consider optimizing hyperparameters related to sparsity per target. Together, the results indicate that the observed network-level disruption was predicted by the lesion alone and does not significantly improve model performance in predicting the profile of language impairment.
Glycolysis regulates neuronal excitability via lactate receptor, HCA1R
Authors: Skwarzynska Daria , Sun Huayu , Williamson John , Kasprzak Izabela , Kapur Jaideep
Published: November 2022

Repetitively firing neurons during seizures accelerate glycolysis to meet energy demand, which leads to the accumulation of extracellular glycolytic by-product lactate. Here, we demonstrate that lactate rapidly modulates neuronal excitability in times of metabolic stress via the hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor type 1 (HCA1R) to modify seizure activity.

The extracellular lactate concentration, measured by a biosensor, rose quickly during brief and prolonged seizures. In two epilepsy models, mice lacking HCA1R (lactate receptor) were more susceptible to developing seizures. Moreover, HCA1R deficient (knockout) mice developed longer and more severe seizures than wild-type littermates. Lactate perfusion decreased tonic and phasic activity of CA1 pyramidal neurons in genetically encoded calcium indicator 7 imaging experiments. HCA1R agonist 3-chloro-5-hydroxybenzoic acid (3CL-HBA) reduced the activity of CA1 neurons in HCA1R WT but not in knockout mice. In patch-clamp recordings, both lactate and 3CL-HBA hyperpolarized CA1 pyramidal neurons. HCA1R activation reduced the spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current frequency and altered the paired-pulse ratio of evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents in HCA1R wild-type but not in knockout mice, suggesting it diminished presynaptic release of excitatory neurotransmitters.

Overall, our studies demonstrate that excessive neuronal activity accelerates glycolysis to generate lactate, which translocates to the extracellular space to slow neuronal firing and inhibit excitatory transmission via HCA1R. These studies may identify novel anticonvulsant target and seizure termination mechanisms.
“My Islam be Black”: resisting erasure, silence, and marginality at the intersection of race and religion
Authors: Abdalla Marwa I
Published: November 2022

This study explores practices of digitally mediated critique and resistance at the intersection of race and religion. Drawing on theories of intersectionality, silence, erasure, and marginality, I analyze discourses from three online communities focused on Black Muslim experiences within the US. Against the backdrop of systemic anti-Black racism and Islamophobia, my analysis highlights themes related to the (re)centering of Black Muslim experiences to resist the invisibility resulting from dominant assumptions about Muslim identity. Based on these findings, I argue interrogations of unity play an important role in challenging such invisibility. I discuss the implications these findings have for theorizing the intra-categorical complexity inherent in marginalized groups and conclude by identifying future work to advance our understanding of this complexity in global contexts.
Developing a tool for community involvement in water policy decision-making using strategic environmental assessments and serious games
Authors: Ponok Nittaya , Arunrat Noppol , Pumijumnong Nathsuda , Hamasaki Hironori , Stewart Thomas Neal , Sereenonchai Sukanya
Published: November 2022

Water policy decision-making is hindered by limited involvement and understanding of the issues by the affected community members. This study demonstrates that implementing a serious game concept to explain Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) can improve a community’s knowledge and skill in water policy decision-making. The authors developed a tool called SEA Game and Simulation using the MIT App Inventor and participatory techniques. The developed tool was implemented among 39 community members in the East Coast River Basin of Thailand. Key findings indicated a significant improvement in the participants’ knowledge of SEA and skill in water policy decision-making. Results from implementing the tool were dependent on the background of the participants and the context of the events. Further studies related to developing sustainable measures from SEA in community sectors should be considered.
A novel selective spleen tyrosine kinase inhibitor SKI-O-703 (cevidoplenib) ameliorates lupus nephritis and serum-induced arthritis in murine models
Authors: Cho Somi , Jang Eunkyeong , Yoon Taeyoung , Hwang Haejun , Youn Jeehee
Published: November 2022

Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) plays a pivotal role in the activation of B cells and innate inflammatory cells by transducing immune receptor-triggered signals. Dysregulated activity of Syk is implicated in the development of antibody-mediated autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis, but the effect of Syk inhibition on such diseases remains to be fully evaluated. We have developed a novel selective Syk inhibitor, SKI-O-592, and its orally bioavailable salt form, SKI-O-703 (cevidoplenib). To examine the efficacy of SKI-O-703 on the progression of SLE, New Zealand black/white mice at the autoimmunity-established phase were administrated orally with SKI-O-703 for 16 weeks. Levels of IgG autoantibody, proteinuria, and glomerulonephritis fell significantly, and this was associated with hypoactivation of follicular B cells via the germinal center. In a model of serum-transferred arthritis, SKI-O-703 significantly ameliorated synovitis, with fewer neutrophils and macrophages infiltrated into the synovial tissue. This effect was recapitulated when mice otherwise refractory to anti-TNF therapy were treated by TNF blockade combined with a suboptimal dose of SKI-O-703. These results demonstrate that the novel selective Syk inhibitor SKI-O-703 attenuates the progression of autoantibody-mediated autoimmune diseases by inhibiting both autoantibody-producing and autoantibody-sensing cells.
Brain recognition of previously learned versus novel temporal sequences: a differential simultaneous processing
Authors: Bonetti L , Brattico E , Bruzzone S E P , Donati G , Deco G , Pantazis D , Vuust P , Kringelbach M L
Published: November 2022

Memory for sequences is a central topic in neuroscience, and decades of studies have investigated the neural mechanisms underlying the coding of a wide array of sequences extended over time. Yet, little is known on the brain mechanisms underlying the recognition of previously memorized versus novel temporal sequences. Moreover, the differential brain processing of single items in an auditory temporal sequence compared to the whole superordinate sequence is not fully understood. In this magnetoencephalography (MEG) study, the items of the temporal sequence were independently linked to local and rapid (2–8 Hz) brain processing, while the whole sequence was associated with concurrent global and slower (0.1–1 Hz) processing involving a widespread network of sequentially active brain regions. Notably, the recognition of previously memorized temporal sequences was associated to stronger activity in the slow brain processing, while the novel sequences required a greater involvement of the faster brain processing. Overall, the results expand on well-known information flow from lower- to higher order brain regions. In fact, they reveal the differential involvement of slow and faster whole brain processing to recognize previously learned versus novel temporal information.
Outcomes in small children on Berlin Heart EXCOR support: age and body surface area as clinical predictive factors
Authors: Rohde Sofie , Sandica Eugen , Veen Kevin , Kraemer Ulrike S , Thiruchelvam Timothy , Miera Oliver , Lopez Maria L Polo , Sliwka Joanna , Amodeo Antonio , Bogers Ad J J C , de By Theo M M H
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVES

The Berlin Heart EXCOR (BHE) offers circulatory support across all paediatric ages. Clinically, the necessary care and the outcomes differ in various age groups. The EUROMACS database was used to study age- and size-related outcomes for this specific device.

METHODS

All patients <19 years of age from the EUROMACS database supported with a BHE between 2000 and November 2021 were included. Maximally selected rank statistics were used to determine body surface area (BSA) cut-off values. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression using ridge penalization was performed to identify factors associated with outcomes.

RESULTS

In total, 303 patients were included [mean age: 2.0 years (interquartile range: 0.6–8.0, males: 48.5%)]. Age and BSA were not significantly associated with mortality (n = 74, P = 0.684, P = 0.679). Factors associated with a transplant (n = 175) were age (hazard ratio 1.07, P = 0.006) and aetiology other than congenital heart disease (hazard ratio 1.46, P = 0.020). Recovery rates (n = 42) were highest in patients with a BSA of <0.53 m2 (21.8% vs 4.3–7.6% at 1 year, P = 0.00534). Patients with a BSA of ≥0.73 m2 had a lower risk of early pump thrombosis but a higher risk of early bleeding compared to children with a BSA of <0.73 m2.

CONCLUSIONS

Mortality rates in Berlin Heart-supported patients cannot be predicted by age or BSA. Recovery rates are remarkably high in the smallest patient category (BSA <0.53 m2). This underscores that the BHE is a viable therapeutic option, even for the smallest and youngest patients.
Public speaking goes to China: cultural discourses of circulation
Authors: Boromisza-Habashi David , Fang Yaqiong
Published: November 2022

Cultural discourse theory’s (CDT) strength is accounting for cultural differences between historically transmitted expressive systems. In its current form, the theory is not set up to account for the mobility of particular communication practices across cultural boundaries. Relying on CDT’s conception of communication practices as discursive resources for social interaction, we extend the theory’s explanatory power by investigating how speakers constitute the value and movements of a particular resource: the speech genre of public speaking. We performed a cultural discourse analysis (CuDA) of public speaking’s circulation between the United States and China to show that value ascriptions constituted divergent cultural discourses of circulation together with key symbols (such as “localization” and suzhi) and explicit metacultural commentary. These cultural discourses have an accelerative function on the dissemination side of circulation, and an integrative function on the replication side. Thus, cultural discourses of circulation communicatively constitute the mobility of particular discursive resources.
The Doubling Method in Algebraic Families
Authors: Girsch Johannes
Published: November 2022

We define the doubling zeta integral for smooth families of representations of classical groups. Following this we prove a rationality result for these zeta integrals and show that they satisfy a functional equation. Moreover, we show that there exists an appropriate normalizing factor that allows us to construct $\gamma $-factors for smooth families out of the functional equation. We prove that under certain hypothesis, specializing this $\gamma $-factor at a point of the family yields the $\gamma $-factor defined by Piateski–Shapiro and Rallis.
Schubert Products for Permutations with Separated Descents
Authors: Huang Daoji
Published: November 2022

We say that two permutations $\pi $ and $\rho $ have separated descents at position $k$ if $\pi $ has no descents before position $k$ and $\rho $ has no descents after position $k$. We give a counting formula, in terms of reduced word tableaux, for computing the structure constants of products of Schubert polynomials indexed by permutations with separated descents, and recognize that these structure constants are certain Edelman–Greene coefficients. Our approach uses generalizations of Schützenberger’s jeu de taquin algorithm and the Edelman–Greene correspondence via bumpless pipe dreams.
Recent topics regarding macrophage in the central nervous system
Authors: Masuda Takahiro
Published: November 2022

The central nervous system (CNS) is a highly complex collection of neurons with a variety of stromal cells, such as glia cells, immune cells, vascular cells and fibroblasts. Microglia are a resident macrophage and a type of glial cells located in the parenchyma of the CNS and play a pivotal role in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. They are early responders to the abnormality of the CNS, leading to the adaptation of their phenotypes by virtue of their plasticity, after which they give an impact on neuronal functions. Besides microglia, there are anatomically and phenotypically distinct macrophage populations at the border of the CNS, such as meninge, perivascular space and choroid plexus, where they show distinct morphology and gene expression profiles when compared with microglia. This review will summarize the recent advance in our knowledge regarding their heterogeneity, plasticity, ontogenetic relationship of these CNS-resident macrophage populations.
Computational properties of finite PNmatrices
Authors: Filipe Pedro , Marcelino Sérgio , Caleiro Carlos
Published: November 2022

Recent compositionality results in logic have highlighted the advantages of enlarging the traditional notion of logical matrix semantics, namely by incorporating non-determinism and partiality. Still, several important properties which are known to be computable for finite logical matrices have not been studied in the wider context of partial non-deterministic matrices (PNmatrices). In this paper, we study how incorporating non-determinism and/or partiality in logical matrices impacts on the computational properties of some natural problems regarding their induced logics and concretely their sets of theorems. We show that, while for some of these problems there is no relevant computational impact, there are problems whose computational complexity increases and still other problems that simply become undecidable. In particular, we show that the problem of checking whether the logics characterized by two finite PNmatrices have the same set of theorems is not decidable. This undecidability result explores the connection between PNmatrices and term-DAG-automata, where the universality problem is known to be undecidable. This link also motivates a final contribution, in the form of a pumping-like lemma, which can be used, in some cases, to show that a given logic cannot be characterized by a finite PNmatrix.
Extreme value statistics of the halo and stellar mass distributions at high redshift: are JWST results in tension with ΛCDM?
Authors: Lovell Christopher C , Harrison Ian , Harikane Yuichi , Tacchella Sandro , Wilkins Stephen M
Published: November 2022

The distribution of dark matter halo masses can be accurately predicted in the lambda cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology. The presence of a single massive halo or galaxy at a particular redshift, assuming some baryon and stellar fraction for the latter, can therefore be used to test the underlying cosmological model. A number of recent measurements of very large galaxy stellar masses at high redshift (z > 8) motivate an investigation into whether any of these objects are in tension with ΛCDM. We use extreme value statistics to generate confidence regions in the mass–redshift plane for the most extreme mass haloes and galaxies. Tests against numerical models show no tension, neither in their dark matter halo masses nor their galaxy stellar masses. However, we find tentative >3σ tension with recent observational determinations of galaxy masses at high redshift from both Hubble Space Telescope and James Webb Space Telescope, despite using conservative estimates for the stellar fraction (f⋆ ∼ 1). Either these galaxies are in tension with ΛCDM, or there are unaccounted for uncertainties in their stellar mass or redshift estimates.
Search for coronal temperature variation in Seyfert galaxies
Authors: Pal Indrani , Stalin C S
Published: November 2022

While the temperature of the X-ray corona (kTe) in active galactic nuclei (AGNs) is known for many sources, its variation if any is limited to a handful of objects. This is in part due to the requirement of good signal-to-noise X-ray spectra, covering a wide range of energies. We present here results on the X-ray spectral analysis of 18 Seyferts, having more than one epoch of observations to look for variation in kTe. The data for a total of 52 epochs on these 18 AGNs were taken from observations carried out by NuSTAR in the 3−79 keV energy band. From phenomenological and physical model fits to the multiepoch data on these 18 sources from NuSTAR, we could constrain the cut-off energy (Ecut) in a large fraction of the sources. Also, from Comptonized model fits we could obtain kTe for our sample. Of the 18 sources, at the 90 per cent confidence level, evidence for variation in kTe was found for only one source namely MCG + 08-11-011. For this source between two epochs, separated by about 5 yr, we found kTe to decrease from 57$^{+29}_{-16}$ to 30$^{+11}_{-7}$ keV. During the same period, the flux decreased from (12.60 to 14.02) × 10−11 erg cm−2 s−1 and the optical depth increased from 1.68 to 2.73. We thus found a positive correlation between flux and coronal temperature with a reduction of about 40 per cent in optical depth. Our observations tend to favour the vertically outflowing corona scenario for the observed variation in kTe in MCG + 08-11-011.
Lofting of low-speed ejecta produced in the DART experiment and production of a dust cloud
Authors: Tancredi Gonzalo , Liu Po-Yen , Campo-Bagatin Adriano , Moreno Fernando , Domínguez Bruno
Published: November 2022

NASA sent the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission to impact Dimorphos, the satellite of the asteroid binary system (65803) Didymos. DART will release LICIACube prior to impact to obtain high-resolution post-impact images. The impact will produce a crater and a large amount of material ejected at high speed (several tens of m s−1), producing an ejecta cone that will quickly disperse. We analysed an additional effect: the lofting of material at low velocity due to the generation of seismic waves that propagate inside Dimorphos, producing surface shaking far from the impact point. We divide the process into different stages: from the generation of impact-induced waves, the interaction of them with surface particles, the ejection of dust particles at velocities, and the prediction of the observability of the dust coma and trail. We anticipate the following observable effects: (i) generation of a dust cloud that will produce a hazy appearance of Dimorphos’ surface, detectable by LICIACube; (ii) brightness increase of the binary system due to enhancement of the cross-section produced by the dust cloud; (iii) generation of a dust trail, similar to those observed in some Active Asteroids, which can last for several weeks after impact. Numerical prediction of the detectability of these effects depends on the amount and size distribution of ejected particles, which are largely unknown. In case these effects are observable, an inversion method can be applied to compute the amount of ejected material and its velocity distribution, and discuss the relevance of the shaking process.
Analgesic Effect of Topical Piroxicam vs Phytotherapy Gel in the Treatment of Acute Soft Tissue Injuries: A Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Study
Authors: Bel haj ali Khaoula , Sekma Adel , Ben Abdallah Saoussen , Yaakoubi Hajer , Trabelsi Imen , Frikha Nourzed , Ben Soltane Houda , Grissa Mohamed Habib , Boubaker Hamdi , Msolli Mohamed Amine , Mezgar Zied , Beltaief Kaouthar , Boukef Riadh , Nouira Semir
Published: November 2022

Objective

The study compared the efficacy and tolerability of piroxicam gel and a new topical combination of medicinal plant products (Soulagel®; Belpharma Tunisia) to treat pain caused by soft tissue injuries.

Methods

Patients (n = 1,525) were assigned to receive piroxicam gel or Soulagel. Efficacy assessments included a change of at least 50% in the pain-on-movement visual numeric scale rating from emergency department discharge (baseline) to day 7 final assessment, as well as the time required to reach pain resolution criteria, the need for rescue analgesia, patients’ satisfaction, and the rate of adverse effects.

Results

At day 7, 1,216 patients (79.7%) achieved at least 50% reduction in visual numeric scale rating from baseline: 623 patients (82.4%) in the Soulagel group vs 593 patients (77.1%) in the piroxicam group (P = 0.01). Time to decrease pain on movement by 50% was significantly higher with piroxicam gel than with Soulagel (34 ± 1 vs 33 ± 1 days, respectively; P = 0.54). At day 7, 96.4% of patients in the Soulagel group declared being “very satisfied” to “satisfied,” vs 68% in the piroxicam group (P < 0.001). There were no major adverse events in either group.

Conclusions

Soulagel is not inferior to piroxicam gel for managing pain related to a soft tissue injuries. Further studies will help ascertain whether this new gel offers an alternative treatment option for this common emergency department condition.
Surveillance as the Past and Future of Public Administration
Authors: Yates Jeff , Whitford Andrew B
Published: November 2022

We trace how privacy-encroaching technologies have unfolded over the course of human history and how such technologies have influenced human societies and economies; governments have been central to this evolution. We maintain that surveillance is inevitable: that the future of public administration will depend on how administrators and others navigate deep rifts in public fear (yet acceptance) of surveillance and other means of data collection. Finally, we argue for coordination among governance scholars, public administrators, public technologists, and civil society advocates in order to improve the institutions that govern the collection and use of data from surveillance activities.
Explaining Backlash: Social Hierarchy and Men’s Rejection of Women’s Rights Reforms
Authors: Benstead Lindsay J , Muriaas Ragnhild , Wang Vibeke
Published: November 2022

Governments promote gender-sensitive policies, yet little is known about why reform campaigns evoke backlash. Drawing on social position theory, we test whether marginalized (women’s organizations) or intrusive (Western donors) messengers cause resistance across public rights (quotas) and private rights (land reform). Using a framing experiment implemented among 1,704 Malawians, we find that females’ attitudes are unaffected by campaigns, while backlash occurs among patrilineal and matrilineal males. Backlash among men is more common for sensitive private rights (land reform) than public rights (quotas) and Western donors than women’s organizations, suggesting complex effects generally more consistent with the intrusiveness hypothesis.
Genetic Diversity and Pathogenic Variation of the Rice False Smut Pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens from Different Rice Cultivars
Authors: Bai Zhenxu , Qin Yubao , Cao Kuirong , Du Jianhang , Han Yanqing , Tan Ze , Wu Gentu , Tian Binnian , Yang Yuheng , Yu Yang , Bi Chaowei , Sun Wenxian , Fang Anfei
Published: November 2022

Rice false smut, caused by Ustilaginoidea virens, has become one of the most devastating grain diseases of rice worldwide. Understanding the genetic diversity of U. virens is essential for efficient disease control and breeding for disease resistance. However, little is known about the genetic variation of U. virens from different rice cultivars. We investigated the genetic diversity and pathogenic variation of U. virens isolates from 10 rice cultivars in Zhejiang, China. A total of 260 polymorphic loci and 27 haplotypes were identified based on the 2,137-bp combined DNA fragments of all individuals; hap_4 was the most common haplotype, represented by 41 isolates. Phylogeny indicated that all isolates were divided into four genetic groups. Group I was the largest, with 98 isolates, distributed mainly in eight cultivar populations, whereas 90% of the isolates collected from a Changxiang cultivar were clustered in Group IV. Furthermore, the pairwise FST values exhibited significant genetic differentiation in 27 of the pairwise comparisons between populations, accounting for 23.21% of the total genetic variation. The genetic composition of the isolates of the CX population was distinguishable from that of the other nine populations, and genetic recombination was found in a few isolates. Finally, 27 haplotype representative isolates showed high variation in pathogenicity, and the isolates from the genetic subpopulation I were likely to be more virulent than those from genetic subpopulations II and III. Collectively, these findings suggest that differences in rice cultivars play an important role in the genetic variation of U. virens.
MicroRNA Expression Profiles in Response to Phytophthora infestans and Oidium neolycopersici and Functional Identification of sly-miR397 in Tomato
Authors: Guan Yuanyuan , Wei Zhiyuan , Song Puwen , Zhou Luyi , Hu Haiyan , Hu Ping , Li Chengwei
Published: November 2022

Late blight and powdery mildew are two widespread tomato diseases caused by Phytophthora infestans and Oidium neolycopersici, respectively, which reduce the quantity and quality of tomato. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in tomato resistance to various pathogens. Investigating the function of miRNAs is of great significance in controlling tomato diseases. To identify potential miRNAs involved in the interaction of tomato with P. infestans or O. neolycopersici, we analyzed the expression profiles of small RNAs in tomato leaves infected with these two pathogens using RNA-seq technology. A total of 330 and 288 miRNAs exhibited differences in expression levels after exposure to P. infestans and O. neolycopersici, respectively. One hundred and forty-six commonly differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs responsive to P. infestans and O. neolycopersici infestation were detected, including 10 commonly known conserved DE miRNAs and 136 novel miRNAs. Among these known DE miRNAs, sly-miR397 was strongly downregulated in response to P. infestans or O. neolycopersici infection. Silencing of sly-miR397 resulted in enhanced tolerance to the pathogens, whereas overexpression of sly-miR397 showed increased susceptibility. Furthermore, changes in sly-miR397 expression could also affect expression levels of pathogenesis-related genes and reactive oxygen species-scavenging genes, leading to altered necrotic cells and H2O2 levels. In addition, the number of lateral branches significantly changed in transgenic plants. Taken together, our results provide potential miRNA resources for further research of miRNA-disease associations and indicates that sly-miR397 acts as a negative regulator of disease resistance and influences lateral branch development in tomato.
Seed Infection Rate, but Not Pathogen Titer, Positively Correlates with Disease Index of Cephalosporium Stripe in Winter Wheat
Authors: Sheng Hongyan , Klos Kathy L. E. , Murray Timothy D.
Published: November 2022

Cephalosporium gramineum survives primarily in colonized plant residue but is also transmitted by seed at a low frequency. The purpose of this study was to correlate disease intensity in the field with percentage of infected seed and amount of pathogen DNA using a high-throughput PCR method. Field-grown seed of three wheat cultivars was collected over 4 years from plots with a known disease index. The culture-based seed infection rate was determined by isolation of C. gramineum from 2,016 seeds per seed lot. DNA of 380 seeds from each seed lot was extracted individually, and a PCR assay with a fluorescent-labeled forward primer for detecting C. gramineum was performed on each seed. C. gramineum was isolated from 0.12% of the seed on average (range 0 to 0.74%), whereas it was detected in 3.7% on average (range 1.3 to 7.6%) using PCR detection. The single-seed PCR assay was more sensitive than either the culture-based method or conventional PCR. DNA of 674 seeds that tested positive by this PCR was quantified using a real-time PCR with newly designed primers for the amount of pathogen per seed. Seed contained 0.017 to 77.1 pg/seed of C. gramineum DNA (mean 3.0 pg/seed). Disease index was positively correlated with seed infection rate but not with pathogen titer in seed. This fluorescent-labeled PCR, along with quantitative PCR, improved our understanding of seed transmission of C. gramineum in wheat.
The Diagnosis of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip From Hip Ultrasonography Images With Deep Learning Methods
Authors: Atalar Hakan , Üreten Kemal , Tokdemir Gül , Tolunay Tolga , Çiçeklidağ Murat , Atik Osman Şahap
Published: November 2022

Background:

Hip ultrasonography is very important in the early diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip. The application of deep learning-based medical image analysis to computer-aided diagnosis has the potential to provide decision-making support to clinicians and improve the accuracy and efficiency of various diagnostic and treatment processes. This has encouraged new research and development efforts in computer-aided diagnosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate hip sonograms using computer-assisted deep-learning methods.

Methods:

The study included 376 sonograms evaluated as normal according to the Graf method, 541 images with dysplasia and 365 images with incorrect probe position. To classify the developmental hip dysplasia ultrasound images, transfer learning was applied with pretrained VGG-16, ResNet-101, MobileNetV2 and GoogLeNet networks. The performances of the networks were evaluated with the performance parameters of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1 score, and AUC (area under the ROC curve).

Results:

The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1 score, and AUC results obtained by testing the VGG-16, ResNet-101, MobileNetV2, and GoogLeNet models showed performance >80%. With the pretrained VGG-19 model, 93%, 93.5%, 96.7%, 92.3%, 92.6%, and 0.99 accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1 score, and AUC results were obtained, respectively.

Conclusion:

In this study, in addition to the ultrasonography images of dysplastic and healthy hips, images were also included of probe malpositioning, and these images were able to be successfully evaluated with deep learning methods. On the sonograms, which provided criteria appropriate for evaluation, successful differentiation could be made of healthy hips and dysplastic hips.

Level of Evidence:

Level-IV; diagnostic studies.
Primary Tuberculosis Presenting as a Soft Tissue Mass in the Sacroiliac Joint of an Immunocompetent Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Andryk Logan M. , Meinerz Carolyn M. , Wooldridge Adam N.
Published: November 2022

A 46-year-old immunocompetent Somali female immigrant presented with a 2-year history of progressive left hip pain refractory to conservative management. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large mass arising from her left sacroiliac joint and extending into her left gluteus maximus. Biopsy and culture identified an abscess of unknown etiology, prompting an incision and drainage. This abscess was later identified as primary tuberculosis, for which she was placed on an antitubercular regimen and had complete resolution of her symptoms. Primary tuberculosis, while extremely rare, should be considered on the differential for a complex sacroiliac abscess, particularly in patients from endemic countries.
Experiences and Perspectives on Stressors and Organizational Strategies to Bolster Resiliency During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Khalil Carine , Berdahl Carl T. , Simon Kevin , Uphold Heatherlun , Ghandehari Sara , Durra Omar , Glenn Clarence , Kim Linda , Yumul Roya , Milam Adam Jeraldo
Published: November 2022

Objective:

This qualitative study included a sample of health care workers (HCWs) at a tertiary care center providing direct care to patients with COVID-19 to explore experiences and perceptions regarding care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as factors that helped HCWs cope with the challenges of the pandemic.Methods:Grounded theory methodology was used to conduct virtual focus groups with a semistructured interview guide May to June 2020.Results:We identified major themes related to (1) HCWs' emotions during the pandemic, (2) the perceived triggers of these feelings, (3) organizational factors that made HCWs feel more supported and appreciated, and (4) personal factors that helped HCWs cope with the pandemic.Conclusion:Results highlighted the stress and challenges associated with exposure to SARS-CoV-2. The findings can help inform interventions to support HCWs during pandemics and other crises.
Posttherapy technetium-99m pentavalent dimercaptosuccinic acid brain single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography: diagnostic and prognostic values in patients with glioma
Authors: Mohamadien Nsreen R.A. , Diab Waleed A. , Abd El-Ghani Wael M.A. , Abdelhafez Yasser G.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To assess the value of posttherapy 99mTc-pentavalent dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA-V) brain SPECT/CT in patients with brain glioma.

Methods

Patients with pathologically or radiologically proven glioma were prospectively enrolled in this study. 99mTc-DMSA-V brain SPECT/CT images were acquired at 120–180 min after i.v. injection of 555–740 MBq of 99mTc-DMSA-V. Three nuclear medicine physicians blindly interpreted the scans visually as positive or negative for residual/recurrent disease. Agreement between two or more readers was considered a consensus. The composite reference standard was considered based on subsequent clinical/neuroimaging follow-up or histopathology whenever available. Overall survival (OS) was calculated from the date of initial diagnosis till the death or the date of last follow-up.

Results

Thirty-four patients (18 males and 16 females; mean age 37.7 ± 16 years) were enrolled in this study. Interreader agreement between the readers ranged from 0.71 to 0.82. Based on the composite reference standard, residual/recurrent disease was confirmed in 16 patients, whereas 18 patients were negative for disease. Consensus reading of 99mTc-DMSA-V SPECT/CT accurately diagnosed 13 true positive (sensitivity 81%) and 17 true negative scans (specificity 94%). After a median follow-up of 22.9 months, 7/14 patients with positive 99mTc-DMSA-V SPECT/CT brain readings died compared to 4/20 with negative readings. The median survival was 24.1 months for the positive group and was not reached for the negative group.

Conclusion

Posttherapy brain SPECT/CT scanning with 99mTc-DMSA-V is a noninvasive, reliable, and specific tool for evaluation of patients with brain glioma after definitive therapy. Scan positivity was associated with poor OS.
The prognostic relationship of 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic and volumetric parameters in metastatic ALK + NSCLC
Authors: Agüloğlu Nurşin , Aksu Ayşegül , Unat Damla S. , Akyol Murat
Published: November 2022

Objective

The aim of this study is to determine the role of metabolic and volumetric parameters obtained from 18Fluorine-Fluorodeoxyglucose PET/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) imaging on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with advanced nonsquamous cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement.

Methods

Pre and post-treatment PET/CT images of the ALK + NSCLC patients between January 2015 and July 2020 were evaluated. The highest standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) values were obtained from pre-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) basal PET/CT (PETpre) and post-TKI PET/CT (PETpost) images. Total MTV (tMTV) and total TLG (tTLG) values were calculated by summing MTV and TLG values in all tumor foci. The change (Δ) in pSUVmax, pMTV, pTLG, tMTV and tTLG before and after treatment was calculated.The relationship of these parameters with OS and PFS was analyzed.

Results

tTLGpre, tMTVpre, pTLGpre, pMTVpre, ∆SUVmax, ∆tMTV and ∆tTLG values were found to be associated with OS; ∆tMTV, ∆tTLG, tTLGpre, tMTVpre, pTLGpre and pMTVpre were associated with PFS. The cutoff values in both predicting OS and PFS were calculated as −31.6 and 391.1 for ∆tMTV and tTLGpre, respectively. In Cox regression analysis, ∆tMTV and stage for OS and ∆tMTV and tTLGpre for PFS were obtained as prognostic factors.

Conclusions

Metabolic and volumetric parameters, especially TLG values in the whole body before treatment and change in whole body MTV value, obtained from PET/CT may be useful in predicting prognosis and determining treatment strategies for patients with advanced ALK + NSCLC.
Recent lipoprotein(a) trials
Authors: Wei Trent , Cho Leslie
Published: November 2022

Purpose of review

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is a genetically determined independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and calcific aortic stenosis; thus, serum levels are minimally affected by conventional treatments for hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia. New RNA therapies directly targeting Lp(a) have demonstrated efficacy in decreasing serum levels. Several recent trials have demonstrated efficacy and safety of these RNA therapeutics.

Recent findings

Single-stranded antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNA (siRNA) are two classes of RNA-targeted therapeutics that specifically target the LPA gene, which encodes for apolipoprotein(a), a dominant and rate-limiting component in the hepatic synthesis of Lp(a) particle. Pelacarsen (ASO), olpasiran (siRNA) and SLN360 (siRNA) are novel drugs that have demonstrated efficacy in lowering Lp(a) levels and excellent safety profiles.

Lp(a) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. RNA-directed therapies, pelacarsen, olpasiran and SLN360, have shown efficacy in dramatically lowering serum Lp(a) levels. Outcomes data will be the next frontier of Lp(a) trials.
Sharp-Pointed Foreign Body Ingestion in Pediatric Age
Authors: Quitadamo Paolo , Battagliere Ilaria , Del Bene Margherita , Caruso Flora , Gragnaniello Piergiorgio , Dolce Pasquale , Caldore Mariano , Bucci Cristina
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

To assess the clinical complications reported after the ingestion of sharp/pointed foreign bodies (FBs) in pediatric age, their incidence among all FB ingestions, and the features and clinical presentation of children.

Study design:

We have recruited all consecutive patients aged 0–14 years, admitted for sharp/pointed FB ingestion. Clinical data until hospital discharge were accurately recorded, including both children with esophagogastric FB retention who underwent endoscopic removal and children who were radiologically followed-up till spontaneous FB expulsion. Clinical outcomes were recorded for each patient, with special reference to possible prolonged retention and wall perforation during the intestinal passage.

Results:

We have enrolled 580 children (males/females: 292/288; age range: 11–180 months; mean age ± standard deviation: 50.5 ± 42 months). Sharp/pointed FBs mainly included fragments of metal 270 of 580 (46.55%) and glass 180 of 580 (31%). FBs were endoscopically removed in 79 of 580 (13.6%) children whereas the remaining FBs passed through the gastrointestinal tract over an overall mean time of 29 hours. No cases of intestinal perforation nor prolonged retention were observed. In 3 of 65 (4.6%) procedures the endoscopist faced an uncomfortable endoscopic removal due to the shape and size of the FB which hampered the retrograde passage through the esophageal sphincters.

Conclusions:

Our original and extensive data emphasize that accidental ingestion of sharp/pointed FB ingestion is a current issue in pediatric age, especially in toddlers. Metal and glass objects are the most involved FBs and their endoscopic retrieval may not be easy in about 5% of cases. Fortunately, in our pediatric sample no surgical intervention was needed.
Novel approaches to the prediction and diagnosis of pulmonary complications in the paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplant patient
Authors: Walker Hannah , Shanthikumar Shivanthan , Cole Theresa , Neeland Melanie , Hanna Diane , Haeusler Gabrielle M.
Published: November 2022

Purpose of review

Haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remains the only curative treatment option for many children with relapsed leukaemia, primary immunodeficiencies and haemoglobinopathies. Unfortunately, infectious and noninfectious pulmonary complications following HSCT continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality. This review will focus on recent advances in the field that enhance clinically available diagnostic tools and the role of novel diagnostic techniques.

Recent findings

Research continues to highlight the role of standard diagnostic modalities, including imaging using computed topography chest and Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) in the diagnosis of posttransplant pulmonary infections. Similarly, bronchoalveolar lavage using bronchoscopy to obtain samples for microbiological analysis remains an important tool in the clinical and diagnostic algorithm for these children. The application of more novel diagnostic techniques such as metagenomic next-generation sequencing and the use of specific biomarkers remain potential future tools in children in whom the aetiology of posttransplant lung disease is unknown. The impact of the pulmonary microbiome on infectious and noninfectious pulmonary disease post HSCT is a future research direction.

Pulmonary infectious complications post HSCT remain a devastating complication for children and their families. Despite improvements in standard and novel diagnostic modalities, the aetiology of pulmonary disease remains unknown for many patients. There is an urgent need for ongoing collaborative research to bridge this critical knowledge gap and lead to better patient outcomes.
A Quality Improvement Project to Decrease CLABSIs in Non-ICU Settings
Authors: Engel Jill , Meyer Britt M. , McNeil Gloria Alston , Hicks Tammi , Bhandari Kalpana , Hatch Daniel , Granger Bradi B. , Reynolds Staci S.
Published: November 2022

Background and Objectives:

Central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) are a common, preventable healthcare–associated infection. In our 3-hospital health system, CLABSI rates in non-intensive care unit (ICU) settings were above the internal target rate of zero. A robust quality improvement (QI) project to reduce non-ICU CLABSIs was undertaken by a team of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-prepared nurse leaders enrolled in a post-DNP Quality Implementation Scholars program and 2 QI experts. Based on a review of the literature and local root cause analyses, the QI team implemented the evidence-based practice of using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) cloths for daily bathing for non-ICU patients with a central line.

Methods:

A pre-post-design was used for this QI study. CHG bathing was implemented using multifaceted educational strategies that included an e-learning module, printed educational materials, educational outreach, engagement of unit-based CLABSI champions, and an electronic reminder in the electronic health record. Generalized linear mixed-effects models were used to assess the change in CLABSI rates before and after implementation of CHG bathing. CLABSI rates were also tracked using statistical process control (SPC) charts to monitor stability over time. CHG bathing documentation compliance was audited as a process measure. These audit data were provided to unit-based leadership (nurse managers and clinical team leaders) on a monthly basis. A Qualtrics survey was also disseminated to nursing leadership to evaluate their satisfaction with the CHG bathing implementation processes.

Results:

Thirty-four non-ICU settings participated in the QI study, including general medical/surgical units and specialty areas (oncology, neurosciences, cardiac, orthopedic, and pediatrics). While the change in CLABSI rates after the intervention was not statistically significant (b = −0.35, P = .15), there was a clinically significant CLABSI rate reduction of 22.8%. Monitoring the SPC charts demonstrated that CLABSI rates remained stable after the intervention at all 3 hospitals as well as the health system. CHG bathing documentation compliance increased system-wide from 77% (January 2020) to 94% (February 2021). Overall, nurse leaders were satisfied with the CHG bathing implementation process.

Conclusions:

To sustain this practice change in non-ICU settings, booster sessions will be completed at least on an annual basis. This study provides further support for using CHG cloths for daily patient bathing in the non-ICU setting.