bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of the YORP effect on the contact binary (68346) 2001 KZ66 from combined radar and optical observations
Authors: Zegmott Tarik J , Lowry S C , Rożek A , Rozitis B , Nolan M C , Howell E S , Green S F , Snodgrass C , Fitzsimmons A , Weissman P R
Published: September 2021

The Yarkovsky–O’Keefe–Radzievskii–Paddack (YORP) effect is a small thermal-radiation torque experienced by small asteroids, and is considered to be crucial in their physical and dynamical evolution. It is important to understand this effect by providing measurements of YORP for a range of asteroid types to facilitate the development of a theoretical framework. We are conducting a long-term observational study on a selection of near-Earth asteroids to support this. We focus here on (68346) 2001 KZ66, for which we obtained both optical and radar observations spanning a decade. This allowed us to perform a comprehensive analysis of the asteroid’s rotational evolution. Furthermore, radar observations from the Arecibo Observatory enabled us to generate a detailed shape model. We determined that (68346) is a retrograde rotator with its pole near the southern ecliptic pole, within a 15○ radius of longitude 170○ and latitude −85○. By combining our radar-derived shape model with the optical light curves, we developed a refined solution to fit all available data, which required a YORP strength of $(8.43\pm 0.69)\times 10^{-8} \rm ~rad ~d^{-2}$. (68346) has a distinct bifurcated shape comprising a large ellipsoidal component joined by a sharp neckline to a smaller non-ellipsoidal component. This object likely formed either from the gentle merging of a binary system or from the deformation of a rubble pile due to YORP spin-up. The shape exists in a stable configuration close to its minimum in topographic variation, where regolith is unlikely to migrate from areas of higher potential.
Mitigating baryonic effects with a theoretical error covariance
Authors: Moreira Maria G , Andrade-Oliveira Felipe , Fang Xiao , Huang Hung-Jin , Krause Elisabeth , Miranda Vivian , Rosenfeld Rogerio , Simonović Marko
Published: September 2021

One of the primary sources of uncertainties in modelling the cosmic-shear power spectrum on small scales is the effect of baryonic physics. Accurate cosmology for stage-IV surveys requires knowledge of the matter power spectrum deep in the non-linear regime at the per cent level. Therefore, it is important to develop reliable mitigation techniques to take into account baryonic uncertainties if information from small scales is to be considered in the cosmological analysis. In this work, we develop a new mitigation method for dealing with baryonic physics for the case of the shear angular power spectrum. The method is based on an augmented covariance matrix that incorporates baryonic uncertainties informed by hydrodynamical simulations. We use the results from 13 hydrodynamical simulations and the residual errors arising from a fit to a ΛCDM model using the extended halo model code HMCode to account for baryonic physics. These residual errors are used to model a so-called theoretical error covariance matrix that is added to the original covariance matrix. In order to assess the performance of the method, we use the 2D tomographic shear from four hydrodynamical simulations that have different extremes of baryonic parameters as mock data and run a likelihood analysis comparing the residual bias on Ωm and σ8 of our method and the HMCode for an LSST-like survey. We use different modelling of the theoretical error covariance matrix to test the robustness of the method. We show that it is possible to reduce the bias in the determination of the tested cosmological parameters at the price of a modest decrease in the precision.
General relativistic radiation transport: implications for VLBI/EHT observations of AGN discs, winds, and jets
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Bidisha , Fendt Christian , Schleicher Dominik R G , Vourellis Christos
Published: September 2021

In 2019, the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration (EHTC) has published the first image of a supermassive black hole (SMBH) obtained via the Very Large Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) technique. In the future, it is expected that additional and more sensitive VLBI observations will be pursued for other nearby active galactic nuclei (AGN), and it is therefore important to understand which possible features can be expected in such images. In this paper, we post-process general relativistic magneto-hydrodynamical (GR-MHD) simulations that include resistivity, thus providing a self-consistent jet formation model, including resistive mass loading of a wind launched from a disc in Keplerian rotation. The ray-tracing is done using the General Relativistic Ray-Tracing code grtrans assuming synchrotron emission. We study the appearance of the black hole environment including the accretion disc, winds and jets under a large range of condition, varying black hole mass, accretion rate, spin, inclination angle, disc parameters, and observed frequency. When we adopt M87-like parameters, we show that we can reproduce a ring-like feature (similar as observed by the EHT) for some of our simulations. The latter suggests that such Keplerian disc models thus could be consistent with the observed results. Depending on their masses, accretion rates, spin, and the sensitivity of the observation, we note that other SMBHs may show additional features like winds and jets in the observations.
Hardness of ionizing radiation fields in MaNGA star-forming galaxies
Authors: Kumari Nimisha , Amorín Ricardo , Pérez-Montero Enrique , Vílchez Jose , Maiolino Roberto
Published: September 2021

We investigate radiation hardness within a representative sample of 67 nearby (0.02 ≲ z ≲ 0.06) star-forming (SF) galaxies using the integral field spectroscopic data from the MaNGA survey. The softness parameter η = $\frac{O^{+}/O^{2+}}{S^{+}/S^{2+}}$ is sensitive to the spectral energy distribution of the ionizing radiation. We study η via the observable quantity η′ (${=}\frac{[\text{O}\,{\small II}]/[\text{O}\,{\small III}]}{[\text{S}\,{\small II}][\text{S}\,{\small III}]}$). We analyze the relation between radiation hardness (traced by η and η′) and diagnostics sensitive to gas-phase metallicity, electron temperature, density, ionization parameter, effective temperature, and age of ionizing populations. It is evident that low metallicity is accompanied by low log η′, i.e. hard radiation field. No direct relation is found between radiation hardness and other nebular parameters though such relations cannot be ruled out. We provide empirical relations between log $\rm \eta$ and strong emission line ratios N2, O3N2, and Ar3O3, which will allow future studies of radiation hardness in SF galaxies where weak auroral lines are undetected. We compare the variation of [O iii]/[O ii] and [S iii]/[S ii] for MaNGA data with SF galaxies and H ii regions within spiral galaxies from literature and find that the similarity and differences between different data set are mainly due to the metallicity. We find that predictions from photoionization models considering young and evolved stellar populations as ionizing sources in good agreement with the MaNGA data. This comparison also suggests that hard radiation fields from hot and old low-mass stars within or around SF regions might significantly contribute to the observed η values.
A case of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis after prolonged intervals of an anti-interleukin-6 receptor antibody for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Imai Yuki , Kondo Yasushi , Ishigaki Sho , Nishina Naoshi , Ota Yuichiro , Hanaoka Hironari , Kaneko Yuko , Takeuchi Tsutomu
Published: September 2021

An 83-year-old woman with a history of asthma complained of left abdominal pain and was admitted to our hospital. She was treated with tocilizumab, an anti-interleukin (IL)-6 receptor antibody, with a prolonged interval for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Laboratory tests revealed a remarkable increase in eosinophil count and inflammatory markers with negative antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. Echocardiography revealed pericardial fluid retention, and contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed the thickening of the gastric antrum wall. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy revealed eosinophilic infiltration into the gastric mucosal epithelium. She was diagnosed with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) with pericarditis and eosinophilic gastroenteritis. High-dose glucocorticoids with intermittent intravenous cyclophosphamide (IVCY) were initiated, resulting in remission. As IL-6 is involved in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases such as asthma, our case can provide insights into the pathogenic role of IL-6 in EGPA as the development of EGPA in our case may have been triggered by IL-6 signals enhanced with tocilizumab interval prolongation.
Hopeful monsters: unintended sequencing of famously malformed mite mitochondrial tRNAs reveals widespread expression and processing of sense–antisense pairs
Authors: Warren Jessica M , Sloan Daniel B
Published: September 2021

Although tRNA structure is one of the most conserved and recognizable shapes in molecular biology, aberrant tRNAs are frequently found in the mitochondrial genomes of metazoans. The extremely degenerate structures of several mitochondrial tRNAs (mt-tRNAs) have led to doubts about their expression and function. Mites from the arachnid superorder Acariformes are predicted to have some of the shortest mt-tRNAs, with a complete loss of cloverleaf-like shape. While performing mitochondrial isolations and recently developed tRNA-seq methods in plant tissue, we inadvertently sequenced the mt-tRNAs from a common plant pest, the acariform mite Tetranychus urticae, to a high enough coverage to detect all previously annotated T. urticae tRNA regions. The results not only confirm expression, CCA-tailing and post-transcriptional base modification of these highly divergent tRNAs, but also revealed paired sense and antisense expression of multiple T. urticae mt-tRNAs. Mirrored expression of mt-tRNA genes has been hypothesized but not previously demonstrated to be common in any system. We discuss the functional roles that these divergent tRNAs could have as both decoding molecules in translation and processing signals in transcript maturation pathways, as well as how sense–antisense pairs add another dimension to the bizarre tRNA biology of mitochondrial genomes.
Association of blood pressure with cardiovascular outcome and mortality: results from the KNOW-CKD study
Authors: Lee Jee Young , Park Jung Tak , Joo Young Su , Lee Changhyun , Yun Hae-Ryong , Chang Tae Ik , Kim Yeong-Hoon , Chung WooKyung , Yoo Tae-Hyun , Kang Shin-Wook , Park Sue K , Chae Dong Wan , Oh Kook-Hwan , Han Seung Hyeok
Published: September 2021

Background

Optimal blood pressure (BP) control is a major therapeutic strategy to reduce adverse cardiovascular events (CVEs) and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We studied the association of BP with adverse cardiovascular outcome and all-cause death in patients with CKD.

Methods

Among 2238 participants from the KoreaN cohort study for Outcome in patients With CKD (KNOW-CKD), 2226 patients with baseline BP measurements were enrolled. The main predictor was systolic BP (SBP) categorized by five levels: <110, 110–119, 120–129, 130–139 and ≥140 mmHg. The primary endpoint was a composite outcome of all-cause death or incident CVEs. We primarily used marginal structural models (MSMs) using averaged and the most recent time-updated SBPs.

Results

During the follow-up of 10 233.79 person-years (median 4.60 years), the primary composite outcome occurred in 240 (10.8%) participants, with a corresponding incidence rate of 23.5 [95% confidence interval (CI) 20.7–26.6]/1000 patient-years. MSMs with averaged SBP showed a U-shaped relationship with the primary outcome. Compared with time-updated SBP of 110–119 mmHg, hazard ratios (95% CI) for <110, 120–129, 130–139 and ≥140 mmHg were 2.47 (1.48–4.11), 1.29 (0.80–2.08), 2.15 (1.26–3.69) and 2.19 (1.19–4.01), respectively. MSMs with the most recent SBP also showed similar findings.

Conclusions

In Korean patients with CKD, there was a U-shaped association of SBP with the risk of adverse clinical outcomes. Our findings highlight the importance of BP control and suggest a potential hazard of SBP <110 mmHg.
Why super sandstorm 2021 in North China?
Authors: Yin Zhicong , Wan Yu , Zhang Yijia , Wang Huijun
Published: September 2021

Severe sandstorms reoccurred in the spring of 2021 after an absence for more than 10 years in North China. The dust source area, located in Mongolia, suffered destructive cooling and warming in early and late winter, which loosened the land. A lack of precipitation, excessive snow melt and strong evaporation resulted in dry soil and exiguous spring vegetation. A super-strong Mongolian cyclone developed on the bare and loose ground, and easily blew and transported large amounts of sand particles into North China. Furthermore, top-ranking anomalies (sea ice shift in the Barents and Kara Sea, and sea surface temperatures in the east Pacific and northwest Atlantic) were found to induce the aforementioned tremendous climate anomalies in the dust source area. Analyses, based on large-ensemble Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6, yield results identical to the reanalysis data. Thus, the climate variabilities at different latitudes and synoptic disturbances jointly facilitated the strongest spring sandstorm over the last decade.
Van der Waals superlattices
Authors: Ren Huaying , Wan Zhong , Duan Xiangfeng
Published: September 2021

This perspective explores the development of van der Waals superlattices, which are manipulated and constructed at atomic thick level, and points out potential applications and possible future directions of this new class of materials.
Direct H-He chemical association in superionic FeO2H2He at deep-Earth conditions
Authors: Zhang Jurong , Liu Hanyu , Ma Yanming , Chen Changfeng
Published: September 2021

abstract

Hydrogen and helium are known to play crucial roles in geological and astrophysical environments; however, they are inert toward each other across wide pressure-temperature (P-T) conditions. Given their prominent presence and influence on the formation and evolution of celestial bodies, it is of fundamental interest to explore the nature of interactions between hydrogen and helium. Using an advanced crystal structure search method, we have identified a quaternary compound FeO2H2He stabilized in a wide range of P-T conditions. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations further reveal a novel superionic state of FeO2H2He hosting liquid-like diffusive hydrogen in the FeO2He sublattice, creating a conducive environment for H-He chemical association, at P-T conditions corresponding to the Earth's lowest mantle regions. To our surprise, this chemically facilitated coalescence of otherwise immiscible molecular species highlights a promising avenue for exploring this long-sought but hitherto unattainable state of matter. This finding raises strong prospects for exotic H-He mixtures inside Earth and possibly also in other astronomical bodies.
Elucidating Drivers for Variations in the Explosive Human Immunodeficiency Virus Epidemic Among People Who Inject Drugs in Pakistan
Authors: Lim Aaron G , Trickey Adam , Thompson Laura H , Emmanuel Faran , Reza Tahira E , Reynolds Rosy , Cholette François , Melesse Dessalegn Y , Archibald Chris , Sandstrom Paul , Blanchard James F , Vickerman Peter
Published: September 2021

Background

Pakistan’s explosive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic among people who inject drugs (PWID) varies widely across cities. We evaluated possible drivers for these variations.

Methods

Multivariable regression analyses were undertaken using data from 5 national surveys among PWID (n = 18 467; 2005–2017) to determine risk factors associated with variations in city-level HIV prevalence. A dynamic HIV model was used to estimate the population-attributable fraction (PAF; proportion of HIV infections prevented over 10 years when that risk factor is removed) of these risk factors to HIV transmission and impact on HIV incidence of reducing their prevalence.

Results

Regression analyses suggested that city-level HIV prevalence is strongly associated with the prevalence of using professional injectors at last injection, heroin use in last month, and injecting ≥4 times per day. Through calibrating a model to these associations, we estimate that the 10-year PAFs of using professional injectors, heroin use, and frequent injecting are 45.3% (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 4.3%–79.7%), 45.9% (95% UI, 8.1%–78.4%), and 22.2% (95% UI, 2.0%–58.4%), respectively. Reducing to lowest city-level prevalences of using professional injectors (2.8%; median 89.9% reduction), heroin use (0.9%; median 91.2% reduction), and frequent injecting (0.1%; median 91.8% reduction) in 2020 reduces overall HIV incidence by 52.7% (95% UI, 6.1%–82.0%), 53.0% (95% UI, 11.3%–80.2%), and 28.1% (95% UI, 2.7%–66.6%), respectively, over 10 years.

Conclusions

Interventions should focus on these risk factors to control Pakistan’s explosive HIV epidemic among PWID, including a concomitant expansion of high-coverage needle/syringe provision, opioid substitution therapy, and antiretroviral therapy.
Double-edged effects caused by magnesium ions and alkaline environment regulate bioactivities of magnesium-incorporated silicocarnotite in vitro
Authors: Wu Qiang , Xu Shunxiang , Wang Fei , He Bo , Wang Xin , Sun Ye , Ning Congqin , Dai Kerong
Published: September 2021

Magnesium (Mg) is an important element for its enhanced osteogenic and angiogenic properties in vitro and in vivo, however, the inherent alkalinity is the adverse factor that needs further attention. In order to study the role of alkalinity in regulating osteogenesis and angiogenesis in vitro, magnesium-silicocarnotite [Mg-Ca5(PO4)2SiO4, Mg-CPS] was designed and fabricated. In this study, Mg-CPS showed better osteogenic and angiogenic properties than CPS within 10 wt.% magnesium oxide (MgO), since the adversity of alkaline condition was covered by the benefits of improved Mg ion concentrations through activating Smad2/3-Runx2 signaling pathway in MC3T3-E1 cells and PI3K-AKT signaling pathway in human umbilical vein endothelial cells in vitro. Besides, provided that MgO was incorporated with 15 wt.% in CPS, the bioactivities had declined due to the environment consisting of higher-concentrated Mg ions, stronger alkalinity and lower Ca/P/Si ions caused. According to the results, it indicated that bioactivities of Mg-CPS in vitro were regulated by the double-edged effects, which were the consequence of Mg ions and alkaline environment combined. Therefore, if MgO is properly incorporated in CPS, the improved bioactivities could cover alkaline adversity, making Mg-CPS bioceramics promising in orthopedic clinical application for its enhancement of osteogenesis and angiogenesis in vitro.
Diet quality and exercise in older veterans with PTSD: a pilot study
Authors: Browne Julia , Morey Miriam C , Beckham Jean C , Bosworth Hayden B , Porter Starr Kathryn N , Bales Connie W , McDermott Jessica , Sloane Richard , Gregg Jeffrey J , Hall Katherine S
Published: September 2021

Lay Summary

Older veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at risk for several physical health conditions that reduce their quality of life. Physical activity and healthy eating are important behaviors for promoting good health and physical function in later life. The purpose of this study was to examine the diet quality of older veterans with PTSD and explore whether a program designed to increase exercise also improved diet. Diet quality was measured with a self-report survey, the Dietary Screener Questionnaire (DSQ), which measures daily intake of fiber, calcium, added sugar, whole grain, dairy, and fruits/vegetables/legumes. Study participants were 54 military veterans age 60 years and older with PTSD who participated in a randomized controlled pilot trial comparing 12 weeks of supervised exercise to wait-list usual care. The DSQ was administered at baseline and 12 weeks post intervention. Results show that older veterans with PTSD have overall poor diet quality that included consuming too much added sugar and not enough whole grains, fruits/vegetables/legumes, fiber, calcium, and dairy. Participation in the supervised exercise did not lead to simultaneous diet quality changes over 12 weeks. This study shows that diet quality is poor in older veterans with PTSD and future programs are needed to target this health behavior.
Complete remission in leptomeningeal metastasis of NSCLC with rare EGFR-SEPT14 fusion treated with osimertinib combined with intrathecal chemotherapy with pemetrexed
Authors: Zheng Shengnan , Li Huiying , Feng Jie , Jiang Cheng , Lin Yongjuan , Xie Yu , Yu Tingting , Qian Xiaoping , Yin Zhenyu
Published: September 2021

Leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) is one of the most serious complications of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without standard treatment guidelines and is always accompanied by poor prognosis. Identifying the types of gene mutations is essential to improve the outcome, and an increasing number of rare epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are revealed by next-generation sequencing (NGS). Here, we describe a case of a 56-year-old man who was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma and received thoracoscopic resection in May 2015. One year later, LM was confirmed by positive cerebrospinal fluid cytology. Given the existence of EGFR exon 19 deletions, erlotinib was implemented and achieved a short response for 10 months. Then the systemic therapy was changed to osimertinib and obtained clinical remission for 25 months. Owing to the resurgence of violent headache, retching and vomiting, NGS of cerebrospinal fluid was performed and two rare EGFR-SEPT14 fusions were found. Osimertinib combined bevacizumab, chemotherapy (carboplatin and abraxane) and dacomitinib were implemented in turn but ineffective. Thus, osimertinib combined intrathecal chemotherapy with pemetrexed were carried out and gained a complete remission of neurologic symptoms, stable lesions and long-term survival without notable side effects. This study presented the first case of NSCLC-LM harboring particular EGFR-SEPT14 fusions, who showed a durable response to osimertinib and intrathecal pemetrexed, providing a potential therapeutic option for NSCLC-LM patients with this particular mutation.
The relevance of macrocytosis induction during neoadjuvant dose-dense chemotherapy in breast cancer patients
Authors: Boraska Jelavić Tihana , Podrug Mario , Ban Marija , Belac Lovasić Ingrid , Curić Zvonimir , Vrdoljak Eduard
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to explore the red blood cell changes that occur during neoadjuvant dose-dense chemotherapy (NAC) of breast cancer. Also, we investigated the role of macrocytosis as a predictive biomarker for pathological complete response and disease-free survival (DFS) in these patients. A retrospective analysis of 82 breast cancer patients’ data treated with anthracycline–cyclophosphamide–paclitaxel (AC-T) NAC in three oncology institutions in south Croatia from 2013 to 2020 was carried out. During chemotherapy mean corpuscular volume increased with time, with a median increase of 7.25 fl. Macrocytosis was induced in 38% of patients overall. Development of macrocytosis did not correlate with DFS [hazard ratio = 0.525; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.074–3.768; P = 0.525]. Higher percentage of patients in macrocytosis group achieved PCR, 39% vs. 29% in no macrocytosis group, but this difference was not statistically significant. The relevance of macrocytosis induction during dose-dense neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer should be further explored.
Coronary artery bypass grafting in low ejection fraction: state of the art
Authors: Robinson N. Bryce , Audisio Katia , Bakaeen Faisal G. , Gaudino Mario
Published: September 2021

Purpose of review

As the number of patients with reduced ejection fraction secondary to ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) increases, coronary artery bypass grafting is being used with increasing frequency. In this review, we summarize the different operative considerations in this vulnerable patient population.

Recent findings

Preoperative optimization with mechanical circulatory support devices, especially in the setting of hemodynamic instability, can reduce perioperative morbidity and mortality. The advantage of advanced techniques, such as off-pump CABG and multiple arterial grafting remains unclear. Concomitant procedures, such as ablation for atrial fibrillation remain important considerations that should be tailored to the individual patients risk profile.

Despite improvements in perioperative care of patients undergoing CABG, patients with a reduced ejection fraction remain at elevated risk of major morbidity and mortality. Preoperative optimization and careful selection of intraoperative techniques can lead to improved outcomes.
Initial Seronegative West Nile Virus Encephalitis in an Immunocompromised Child
Authors: Collins-Sawaragi Yoshua Colyn , Koletsi Patra , Donlevy Eleanor Elizabeth , Drysdale Simon Bruce
Published: September 2021

We present a case of initial seronegative West Nile virus encephalitis in an immunocompromised child due to B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Although diagnostic guidelines for West Nile virus infection exist, we highlight that these may not be met in immunocompromised patients who may have a delayed immune response.
A Case of Aseptic Meningitis Without Skin Rash Caused by Oka Varicella Vaccine
Authors: Kawamura Yoshiki , Suzuki Daijiro , Kono Toya , Miura Hiroki , Kozawa Kei , Mizuno Haruo , Yoshikawa Tetsushi
Published: September 2021

Here, we present a previously healthy adolescent with aseptic meningitis without skin rash caused by varicella vaccine derived from the Oka/Biken strain; the patient received a single dose of varicella vaccine at 1 year of age. Pediatricians should be aware of the potential for reactivation of varicella vaccine derived from the Oka/Biken strain, which can cause aseptic meningitis in vaccinated children even in the absence of a skin rash.
The Health of Gulf War and Gulf Era Veterans Over Time
Authors: Dursa Erin K. , Cao Guichan , Porter Ben , Culpepper William J. , Schneiderman Aaron I.
Published: September 2021

Objective:

The aim of this study was to describe the self-reported physical and mental health over the course over 19 years of follow up of a population-based cohort of Gulf War and Gulf Era veterans.

Methods:

A multi-modal health survey of 6338 Gulf War and Gulf Era veterans who participated in all three waves of the longitudinal study.

Results:

Gulf War and Gulf War Era veterans experienced an increase in prevalence of chronic disease over time. The adjusted odds ratios suggest that Gulf War veterans not only had significantly higher odds of reporting medical conditions, but also began to report them earlier.

Conclusions:

The findings from this analysis suggest that Gulf War veterans are not only more likely than their non-deployed counterparts to report chronic disease, they were more likely to report it earlier.
Value of shear wave elastography combined with the Toronto clinical scoring system in diagnosis of diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Wang Fei , Zheng Miao , Hu Ji , Fang Chen , Chen Tong , Wang Meng , Zhang Honghong , Zhu Yunyan , Song Xin , Ma Qi
Published: September 2021

To evaluate the diagnostic values of shear wave elastography (SWE) alone and in combination with the Toronto clinical scoring system (TCSS) on diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

The study included 41 DPN patients, 42 non-DPN patients, and 21 healthy volunteers. Conventional ultrasonography and SWE were performed on the 2 sides of the tibial nerves, and cross-sectional area (CSA) and nerve stiffness were measured. TCSS was applied to all patients. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed.

The stiffness of the tibial nerve, as measured as mean, minimum or maximum elasticity, was significantly higher in patients in the DPN group than the other groups (P < .05). The tibial nerve of subjects in the non-DPN group was significantly stiffer compared to the control group (P < .05). There was no significant difference of the tibial nerve CSA among the 3 groups (P > .05). Mean elasticity of the tibial nerve with a cutoff of 71.3 kPa was the most sensitive (68.3%) and had a higher area under the curve (0.712; 0.602–0.806) among the 3 shear elasticity indices for diagnosing DPN when used alone. When combining SWE with TCSS in diagnosing DPN, the most effective parameter was the EMax, which yielded a sensitivity of 100.00% and a specificity of 95.24%.

SWE is a better diagnostic tool for DPN than the conventional ultrasonic parameter CSA, and a higher diagnostic value is attained when combining SWE with TCSS.
Frosted Branch Angiitis Associated With Cytomegalovirus in a Pediatric Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Patient: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kacar Marija , Cacciotti Chantel , Shen Carl , Fulford Martha , Lysecki Dave , Fleming Adam
Published: September 2021

Background:

Frosted branch angiitis (FBA) is a rare phenomenon of panuveitis which may occur secondary to cytomegalovirus (CMV) causing acute visual disturbances. CMV infection is a known complication in allogenic stem cell transplant (SCT) patients but is uncommon following autologous SCT.

Observation:

We describe a 17-month-old medulloblastoma patient with sudden onset visual impairment following second autologous SCT. The patient was CMV seropositive, polymerase chain reaction negative before second SCT. At the time of presentation with visual complaints, the patient was diagnosed with FBA associated with CMV reactivation. Treatment included antivirals and immunosuppressive medication with visual recovery.

Conclusion:

FBA induced by CMV should be considered as a differential diagnosis in pediatric patients undergoing autologous bone marrow transplant with rapidly progressive visual impairment.
The Role of Family Caregivers in Pressure Injury Prevention Guidelines: A Scoping Review
Authors: Rafiei Hossein , Vanaki Zohreh , Mohammadi Eesa , Hosseinzadeh Kazem
Published: September 2021

Considering the importance of family caregivers in pressure injury prevention, it is necessary to clearly define their role in pressure injury prevention guidelines. We reviewed the contents of pressure injury prevention guidelines with the aim of defining the role of family caregivers. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Proquest were searched, as well as the internet, as some pressure injury guidelines may not be published in professional journals. Literature published between 2000 and 2020 was searched using the keywords “pressure injury,” “pressure ulcer,” “bed sore,” and “prevention guideline.” Ten guidelines related to pressure injury prevention were found. Of these, five guidelines mentioned the role of family caregivers in relation to pressure injury, referring only to the training and empowerment of family caregivers. Of the five guidelines that mentioned caregiver training, only three determined the training content in detail. According to these guidelines, family caregivers should be trained on the risk factors of pressure injuries, characteristics of pressure injuries, intervention to prevent pressure injuries, nutrition, sign and symptoms of pressure injuries, complication such as infection and using protective equipment and devices. In the guidelines that focused on family caregivers, the attention is sometimes limited and vague. Limited attention to the role of family caregivers can lead to lack of awareness and reduced ability of family caregivers to prevent pressure injury and ultimately increase the patient's risk of developing pressure injury.
Knowledge, Behaviors, and Perceptions of Risk of COVID-19 Among Brazilian Nursing Students
Authors: Reis Renata Karina , Menegueti Mayra Gonçalves , Malaguti-Toffano Silmara Elaine , Milanês Sousa Laelson Rochelle , de Oliveira e Silva Ana Cristina , Gir Elucir
Published: September 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic presented important challenges for the education of nursing students to provide health care with competence, quality, and safety.

Objectives

The purpose was to analyze knowledge, behavior, and perception of risk regarding COVID-19 and associated factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2637 Brazilian undergraduate nursing students using a self-reported online survey.

Results

Students' knowledge about COVID-19 in general was considered inadequate. Students had limited knowledge about preventive measures in the hospital environment and recommendations for aerosol precautions. More than 90% of graduates adopted recommended prevention measures, and 86.1% perceived themselves to be at a greater risk of acquired SARS-CoV-2 during clinical practice.

Conclusions

The results show the need to rethink undergraduate nursing education regarding the prevention and control of infectious diseases, including the most appropriate strategies for COVID-19 prevention measures.
Systematic Review of Motor Function Scales and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Wu Jennifer W. , Pepler Laura , Maturi Bridget , Afonso Alexandria C. F. , Sarmiento Janice , Haldenby Renee
Published: September 2021

Spinal muscular atrophy is a heterogeneous disease that results in loss of motor function. In an evolving treatment landscape, establishing the suitability and limitations of existing motor function scales and patient-reported outcomes used to monitor patients with this disease is important. A systematic review was conducted to examine utility of motor function scales and patient-reported outcomes in evaluating patients with spinal muscular atrophy. Published literature was reviewed up to June 2021 with no start date restriction. Of the reports screened, 122 were deemed appropriate for inclusion and are discussed in this review (including 24 validation studies for motor function scales or patient-reported outcomes). Fifteen motor function scales and patient-reported outcomes were identified to be commonly used (≥5 studies), of which 11 had available validation assessments. Each instrument has its strengths and limitations. It is imperative that the patient population (e.g., age, mobility), goals of treatment, and outcomes or endpoints of interest be considered when selecting the appropriate motor function scales and patient-reported outcomes for clinical studies.
The Impact of Primary Progressive Aphasia on Picture Naming and General Language Ability
Authors: Peristeri Eleni , Messinis Lambros , Kosmidis Mary H. , Nasios Grigorios , Mentis Alexios-Fotios A. , Siokas Vasileios , Aloizou Athina-Maria , Kotrotsios Anastasios , Andreou Maria , Dardiotis Efthimios
Published: September 2021

Background:

Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a clinical syndrome that is characterized by progressive deterioration of language while other cognitive domains remain relatively intact. The extent to which print exposure and cortical volume atrophy jointly influence picture naming and general language ability in individuals with PPA remains underexplored.

Objective:

To investigate the language performance of individuals with the nonfluent variant of primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA) and to explore the impact of print exposure and cortical volume atrophy on their language ability.

Method:

We compared 14 Greek individuals with nfvPPA and similar age, education, disease duration, and cognitive ability with age-, gender- and education-matched Greek controls on picture naming and on language tasks of the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination—Short Form, including oral word reading, word and sentence repetition, complex ideational material, and reading comprehension. The effects of print exposure and left-hemisphere cortical volume on the individuals’ language performance were estimated through stepwise regression models.

Results:

The language performance of the individuals with nfvPPA was affected by print exposure and cortical volume atrophy. Picture naming and word reading were affected by print exposure. The highest contributions of cortical volume atrophy were found for the repetition, complex ideational material, and reading comprehension tasks.

Conclusion:

Print exposure and cortical volume atrophy may help explain variability in the language performance of nfvPPA individuals with similar age, education, disease duration, and cognitive ability.
Variably Protease-sensitive Prionopathy in a Middle-aged Man With Rapidly Progressive Dementia
Authors: Huang Juebin , Cohen Mark , Safar Jiri , Auchus Alexander P.
Published: September 2021

Variably protease-sensitive prionopathy (VPSPr) is a recently described sporadic prion disease with distinctive clinical and histopathological features. We report the clinical, imaging, and neuropathological features of VPSPr in a 46-year-old right-handed man who presented with progressive cognitive decline, behavior disturbances, and a 50-pound weight loss over 6 months. The initial evaluation revealed severe cognitive impairment with no focal neurologic deficits. His cognitive, psychiatric, and behavior symptoms progressed rapidly, and he died 12 months after the initial visit. Throughout his disease course, workup for rapid progressive dementia was unremarkable except that brain MRI diffusion-weighted imaging showed persistent diffuse cortical and thalamic signal abnormalities. Sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease was highly suspected; however, two EEGs (8 months apart) demonstrated only nonspecific cerebral dysfunction. The patient’s CSF 14-3-3 protein was negative at the initial visit and again 8 months later. His CSF real-time quaking-induced conversion and total tau level were normal. An autopsy of his brain was performed, and the neuropathological findings confirmed VPSPr. Our case underlines the importance of considering VPSPr in the spectrum of prion disease phenotypes when evaluating individuals with rapidly progressive dementia.
Prevalence of Sleep Disorders and Related Factors in Individuals Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Kir Seher , Kirhan İdris , Dilek Melda
Published: September 2021

Background:

The quality of life of individuals undergoing hemodialysis is related to many factors, including sleep disorders.

Objective:

To determine the prevalence of sleep disorders in individuals undergoing hemodialysis and to assess the effect of clinical and biochemical parameters on their sleep quality.

Method:

We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive survey in multiple hemodialysis centers. Individuals were interviewed using a questionnaire for obtaining general personal information, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) for assessing sleep quality, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) for assessing excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS).

Results:

The study included 338 individuals with a median age of 55 years. Poor sleep quality (PSQ) and EDS were present in 41.4% and 6.5% of the individuals, respectively. The individuals’ PSQI scores were significantly proportional to their ESS scores. Concerns about the disease and its treatment (60.7%) and poor physical conditions (35.7%) were major reported reasons for PSQ. In a logistic regression analysis, female gender, household income, ESS score, chronic heart failure, and creatinine and parathormone levels were found to be independent predictors of PSQ; household income, PSQ presence, parathormone and potassium levels, and urea reduction ratio were found to be independent predictors of EDS.

Conclusion:

Sleep disorders are common in individuals undergoing hemodialysis and are related to gender, comorbid diseases, poor economic state, altered biochemical values, dialysis timing, and concerns about the disease and its treatment. Improving these individuals’ quality of life through adequate psychological and financial support and early diagnosis of sleep disorders should decrease their mortality and morbidity rates.
Dynamic assembly of the calcium hemostasis modulator 1 channel gates ATP permeation
Authors: Ren Yue , Li Yang , Wang Yaojie , Wen Tianlei , Lu Xuhang , Chang Shenghai , Zhang Xing , Shen Yuequan , Yang Xue
Published: September 2021

Calcium hemostasis modulator 1 (CALHM1) is a voltage- and Ca2+-gated ATP channel that plays an important role in neuronal signaling. The currently reported CALHM structures are all in an ATP-conducting state, and the gating mechanism of ATP permeation remains elusive. Here, we report three cryo-EM reconstructions ofDanio rerioheptameric CALHM1s with ordered or flexible long C-terminal helices as well asDanio reriooctameric CALHM1 with flexible long C-terminal helices at resolutions of 3.2 Å, 2.9 Å, and 3.5 Å. Structural analysis revealed that the heptameric CALHM1s are in an ATP nonconducting state in which the pore diameter in the middle is approximately 6.6 Å. Compared with those inside the octameric CALHM1s, the N- helices inside heptameric CALHM1s are in the “down” position to avoid steric clash with neighboring TM1 helices. Molecular dynamic simulation shows that the pore size is significantly increased for ATP molecule permeation during the movement of the N- helix from the “down” position to the “up” position. Therefore, we proposed a mechanism in which the “piston-like” motion of the N-helix drives the dynamic assembly of the CALHM1 channel for ATP molecule permeation. Our results provide insights into the ATP permeation mechanism of the CALHM1 channel.
Modelling the potential role of super spreaders on COVID-19 transmission dynamics
Authors: Mushanyu Josiah , Chukwu Williams , Nyabadza Farai , Muchatibaya Gift
Published: September 2021

Superspreading phenomenon has been observed in many infectious diseases and contributes significantly to public health burden in many countries. Superspreading events have recently been reported in the transmission of the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study uses a set of nine ordinary differential equations to investigate the impact of superspreading on COVID-19 dynamics. The model developed in this study addresses the heterogeineity in infectiousness by taking into account two forms of transmission rate functions for superspreaders based on clinical (infectivity level) and social or environmental (contact level). The basic reproduction number has been derived and the contribution of each infectious compartment towards the generation of new COVID-19 cases is ascertained. Data fitting was performed and parameter values were estimated within plausible ranges. Numerical simulations performed suggest that control measures that decrease the effective contact radius and increase the transmission rate exponent will be greatly beneficial in the control of COVID-19 in the presence of superspreading phenomena.
Deficient auditory gamma-BOLD coupling in schizophrenia is related to sensory gating deficits
Authors: Jacob Michael S. , Sargent Kaia , Roach Brian J. , Shamshiri Elhum A. , Mathalon Daniel H. , Ford Judith M.
Published: September 2021

Background

Schizophrenia is associated with aberrant gamma band power, hypothesized to reflect imbalance in the excitation-inhibition (E/I) ratio and undermine neural signal efficiency. Relationships between resting-state gamma, E/I balance, and regional hemodynamics from the fMRI BOLD signal are unknown.

Methods

We recorded simultaneous EEG-fMRI at rest, with eyes open, in people with schizophrenia (n= 57) and people without a psychiatric diagnosis (n= 46) and identified gamma and aperiodic EEG parameters associated with E/I balance. Measures from all EEG channels were entered into a whole-brain, parametric modulation analysis followed by statistical correction for multiple comparisons. Sensory gating was assessed using the Sensory Gating Inventory, and psychotic symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale.

Results

Across groups, gamma power modestly predicts a steeper aperiodic slope (greater inhibition), without group differences in either gamma power or aperiodic slope. In schizophrenia, gamma-BOLD coupling was reduced in bilateral auditory regions of the superior temporal gyri and inversely correlated with sensory gating deficits and symptom severity. Analysis of the spectral features of scanner sounds revealed distinct peaks in the gamma range, reflecting a rapidly repeating scanner pulse sound present throughout the resting state recording.

Conclusion

Regional hemodynamic support for putative inhibitory and excitatory contributions to resting EEG are aberrant in SZ. Deficient gamma coupling to auditory BOLD may reflect impaired gating of fMRI-scanner sound.
Aberrant transcript usage induces homologous recombination deficiency and predicts therapeutic responses
Authors: Kang Hyeon Gu , Hwangbo Haeun , Kim Myung Ji , Kim Sinae , Lee Eun Ji , Park Min Ji , Kim Jae-Weon , Kim Byoung-Gie , Cho Eun-Hae , Chang Suhwan , Lee Jung-Yun , Choi Jung Kyoon
Published: September 2021

BRCA1/2 mutations account for only a small fraction of homologous recombination (HR) deficiency (HRD) cases. Recently developed genomic HRD (gHRD) tests suffer confounding factors causing low precision in predicting samples that will respond to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors and DNA damaging agents. Here, we present molecular evidence and clinical utility of transcriptional HRD (tHRD) that is based on aberrant transcript usage (TU) of minor isoforms. Specifically, increased TU of non-functional isoforms of DNA repair genes was prevalent in breast and ovarian cancer with gHRD. Our functional assays validated its association with impaired HR activity. Remarkably, tHRD detection based on the TU pattern of key genes was superior to gHRD or BRCA1/2 screening in accuracy for predicting the responses of cell lines and cancer patients to PARP inhibitors and genotoxic drugs. In particular, this approach demonstrated the capability to reflect functional HR status, particularly when applied to our cohort of olaparib users with acquired platinum resistance in ovarian cancer. Hence, the tHRD-based diagnostic tests are expected to broaden the clinical utility of PARP inhibitors.
Overcoming Tumor Heterogeneity by Ex Vivo Arming of T Cells Using Multiple Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Park Jeong A , Cheung Nai-Kong V.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Tumoral heterogeneity is a hallmark of tumor evolution and cancer progression, being a longstanding challenge to targeted immunotherapy. Ex vivo armed T cells (EATs) using IgG-[L]- scFv bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) are potent tumor-specific cytotoxic effectors. To improve the anti-tumor efficacy of EATs against heterogeneous solid tumors, we explored multi-antigen targeting approaches.

Methods

Ex vivo expanded T cells were armed with BsAbs built on the IgG-[L]-scFv platform, where an anti-CD3 (huOKT3) scFv was attached to the carboxyl end of both light chains of a tumor specific IgG. Multispecificity was created by combining monospecific EATs, combining BsAbs on the same T cell, or combining specificities on the same antibody. Three multi-antigens targeting EAT strategies were tested: (1) pooled EATs (simultaneous combination of monospecific EATs or alternate EATs (alternating combination of monospecific EATs), (2) dual-EATs or multi- EATs (T cells simultaneously armed with ≥ 2 BsAbs), and (3) TriAb-EATs [T cells armed with BsAb specific for two tumor targets besides CD3 (TriAb)]. The properties and efficiencies of these 3 strategies were evaluated by flow cytometry, in vitro cytotoxicity, cytokine release assays, and in vivo studies performed in BALB-Rag2-/-IL-2R-γc-KO (BRG) mice xenografted with cancer cell line (CDX) or patient-derived tumor (PDX).

Results

Multi-EATs retained target antigen specificity and anti-tumor potency. Cytokine release with multi-EATs in the presence of tumor cells was substantially less than when multiple BsAbs were mixed with unarmed T cells. When tested against CDXs or PDXs, dual- or multi-EATs effectively suppressed tumor growth without clinical toxicities. Most importantly, dual- or multi- EATs were highly efficient in preventing clonal escape while mono- or TriAb- EATs were not as efficient.

Conclusion

Arming T cells with multiple BsAbs enabled multi-specific T cell immunotherapy which overcomes tumor heterogeneity without excessive cytokine release.