bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergy and/or Antagonism in a Cover Crop Sequence: Rotational Effects on Rye in the Midwest
Authors: Shekinah D. Esther , Stute James K.
Published: April 2019

Cover cropping reduces soil erosion mainly by providing cover when the soil is left barren after a short season crop. It also improves nutrient cycling and prevents the loss of NO3-N by leaching especially during late fall and early spring season. When CCs are grown in a sequence, they are able to harvest both the benefits mentioned above and provide ecological services. However, there may be synergistic or antagonistic effects in action between CCs just as is the case of CC allelopathy in weed control. Field experiments were conducted over two cropping seasons (2016-16 and 2016-17) at Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, Wisconsin on a forest derived Fox silt loam (Fine-loamy, mixed, mesic Typic Hapludalfs) under organic certification to determine the effect of sequential planting of CCs on Above Ground Biomass (AGB) yield, N and C addition and to determine the synergistic or antagonistic effect of the species grown in a sequence on each other. Ten different species of CCs were planted immediately after crop harvest in early August followed by winter rye in a sequence, after roll-crimping of the first cover. The cropping sequences significantly affected the cover crop yield and related parameters. Radish – winter rye sequence was the best performing one in both years of study with regard to the AGB yield (13.96 and 14.87 Mg ha-1 respectively), and large amounts of N and C added to the soil. Phacelia – winter rye followed close, with the sequence recording on par yields in 2015-16 (13.28 Mg ha-1). Winter rye performed better following a dicot compared to monocot; non-legume compared to a legume. The CC sequences also exhibited synergism and antagonism. The yield of winter rye was boosted when the biomass yield of the forage radish it followed increased, which we consider as synergy: while the yield of winter rye reduced whenever the yield of oat, barley or beseem clover it followed increased, which we consider as an antagonistic effect. The other CCs performed moderately and were greatly a reflection of the prevailing weather conditions. More research along this line is recommended to generate research based information on synergy and antagonism in CC sequence.
Reseña: Palabras en lluvia minuciosa. Veinte visitas a la gramática del español inspiradas por Ángela Di Tullio, editado por Ignacio Bosque, Sylvia Costa y Marisa Malcuori
Authors: Chica Jurado Carmen
Published: April 2019

Reseña de Palabras en lluvia minuciosa. Veinte visitas a la gramática del español inspiradas por Ángela Di Tullio, editado por Ignacio Bosque, Sylvia Costa y Marisa Malcuori.
Effects of different levels of glycine in the nutrient solution on the growth, nutrient composition, and antioxidant activity of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)
Authors: Mohammadipour Nikta , Souri Mohammad Kazem
Published: April 2019

A nutrient solution experiment was performed using sand culture to evaluate the effects of different glycine levels on the growth and nutrient uptake of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Different glycine concentrations of 0, 5, 10, 20, or 40 mg L−1 were applied to plants via Hoagland’s nutrient solution in a completely randomized design with four replications and under greenhouse conditions. The results showed that leaf SPAD (soil and plant analysis development; an indicator of leaf greenness) value, stem diameter, and fresh and dry weights of shoots and roots were significantly increased by 10 mg L−1 glycine in comparison to the control plants. Application of glycine at 40 mg L−1 reduced many plant growth parameters, whereas leaf proline concentration was increased. All glycine levels except for 40 mg L−1 increased root fresh weight. Leaf protein content was increased by glycine applied at 10 or 20 mg L−1, whereas leaf antioxidant activity was increased at all glycine levels. Application of glycine increased leaf concentrations of nitrogen and potassium (at 10 mg L−1), magnesium (at 5 mg L−1), and zinc (at all glycine levels) compared to the control plants. The results indicate that moderate level of glycine (10 mg L−1) in the nutrient solution can improve the growth and nutritional quality of coriander.
Cold stress modifies bioactive compounds of kale cultivars during fall–winter harvests
Authors: Jurkow Rita , Wurst Agata , Kalisz Andrzej , Sękara Agnieszka , Cebula Stanisław
Published: April 2019

Kale is a plant known and valued since antiquity as a healthy vegetable crop, used for culinary, decorative, but also healing purposes. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of harvest date on physiological status and nutritional composition of two kale cultivars: ‘Winterbor’ F1 (blue-green leaves) and ‘Redbor’ F1 (red-purple leaves). The leaves were harvested in three periods: before frost (>0°C), after medium (−5.0°C) and heavy frost (−15.0°C). Content of dry weight, soluble sugars, l-ascorbic acid, carotenoids, chlorophylls, polyphenols, anthocyanins, as well as antioxidant activity and peroxidase activity were determined. Cold temperature significantly affected bioactive compounds of kale. The content of dry weight, soluble sugars, l-ascorbic acid, phenolics, and antioxidant activity increased after medium frosts for both cultivars. The level of anthocyanins also increased significantly for the ‘Redbor’ F1 cultivar. After strong frost, most of the tested parameters (content of dry weight, soluble sugars, phenolics, anthocyanins, and total antioxidant and peroxidase activity) significantly increased. The chlorophyll a content was reduced by heavy frost in both seasons. Harvesting kale before and after frost may allow the level of biologically active ingredients to be regulated as cold also significantly affects the physiological status of the plants.
REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF IASP - Allodynia in cluster headache
Authors: Wilbrink Leopoldine A. , Louter Mark A. , Teernstra Onno P.M. , van Zwet Erik W. , Huygen Frank J.P.M. , Haan Joost , Ferrari Michel D. , Terwindt Gisela M.
Published: April 2019

Cutaneous allodynia is an established marker for central sensitization in migraine. There is debate whether cutaneous allodynia may also occur in cluster headache, another episodic headache disorder. Here, we examined the presence and severity of allodynia in a large well-defined nationwide population of people with cluster headache. Using validated questionnaires we assessed, crosssectionally, ictal allodynia and comorbid depression and migraine in the nationwide “Leiden University Cluster headache neuro-Analysis” (LUCA) study. Participants with cluster headache were diagnosed according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders criteria. Multivariate regression models were used, with correction for demographic factors and cluster headache subtype (chronic vs episodic; recent attacks ,1 month vs no recent attacks). In total, 606/798 (75.9%) participants with cluster headache responded; of whom, 218/606 (36%) had allodynia during attacks. Female gender (odds ratio [OR] 2.05, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.28-3.29), low age at onset (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-0.99), lifetime depression (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.06-2.50), comorbid migraine (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.02-3.79), and having recent attacks (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.13-2.86), but not duration of attacks and chronic cluster headache, were independent risk factors for allodynia. The high prevalence of cutaneous allodynia with similar risk factors for allodynia as found for migraine suggests that central sensitization, like in migraine, also occurs in cluster headache. In clinical practice, awareness that people with cluster headache may suffer from allodynia can in the future be an important feature in treatment options.
Decolonial theory and disability studies: On the modernity/coloniality of ability
Authors: Dirth Thomas P. , Adams Glenn A.
Published: April 2019

This paper applies a decolonial approach to hegemonic psychological science by engaging marginalized knowledge perspectives of Disability Studies (DS) to reveal and disrupt oppressive knowledge formations associated with standard understandings of ability. In the first section of the paper, we draw upon mainstream DS scholarship to challenge individualistic orientations to disability (evident in the medical model and positive psychology perspectives) that pervade psychological science. The purpose of this approach is to normalize disability by thinking through disabled ways of being as viable and valuable. In the second section of the paper, we draw upon critical race and global disability perspectives to denaturalize hegemonic accounts of ability. Rather than essential properties of human bodies and minds, the capabilities of the modern subject reflect technological and ideological investments that enable a privileged few, while disabling the marginalized global majority. We conclude by discussing implications of decolonial theory for DS and ways in which considerations of disability subjectivity can inform the decolonial project.
The Enduring Controversy over the Mortara Case
Authors: Kertzer David
Published: April 2019

No abstract is available.
Ronald Kronish. The Other Peace Process: Interreligious Dialogue, a View from Jerusalem
Authors: McGarry Michael B.
Published: April 2019

No abstract is available.
Amy-Jill Levine and Ben Witherington III. The Gospel of Luke
Authors: Gilbert Gary
Published: April 2019

No abstract is available.
The ideal strategies of chemotherapy for the treatment of cervical cancer
Authors: Koh Suk Bong
Published: April 2019

Historically, the standard treatment for early-stage cervical cancer has been radical surgery in patients with operable disease. Patients with locally advanced disease (defined as FIGO stage IB2 and usually with tumors greater than 4 cm, IIB, III and IVA) are usually treated with radical radiotherapy, which consists of external beam radiotherapy and internal brachytherapy. However, the discovery that cervical cancer tumors are sensitive to chemotherapy led to the initiation of studies looking at adding chemotherapy to both radiotherapy and surgery. Following a National Cancer Institute (NCI) alert in 1999 (NCI 1999), chemoradiotherapy became the standard of care for women with locally advanced cervical cancer.
Agreement of three commercial anti-extractable nuclear antigen tests: EUROASSAY Anti-ENA Profile, Polycheck Autoimmune Test and FIDIS Connective Profile
Authors: Kim Namhee , Kim In-Suk , Chang Chulhun L , Kim Hyung-Hoi , Lee Eun Yup
Published: April 2019

Background Detection of antibodies to extractable nuclear antigens (ENAs) is needed for the diagnosis in systemic autoimmune diseases. In this study, we compared three reagents using line immunoblot assay (LIA) or multiplex bead immunoassay for detecting the anti-ENAs. Methods A total of 89 sera were tested by 3 different assays: EUROASSAY Anti-ENA Profile (Euroimmune, Germany), Polycheck Autoimmune Test (Biocheck GmbH, Germany), and FIDIS™ Connective Profile (Biomedical Diagnostics, France). The following individual ENAs were investigated: Sm, SS-A (Ro), SS-B (La), Scl-70, Jo-1 and RNP. We reviewed medical records to investigate the discrepant results among three methods. Results Overall percent agreements were 96.1% between EUROASSAY Anti-ENA Profile and FIDIS™ Connective profile; 90.4% between EUROASSAY Anti-ENA Profile and Polycheck Autoimmune Test using the manufacturers’ cutoff; 96.4% between EUROASSAY Anti-ENA Profile and Polycheck Autoimmune Test using a upward cutoff; 90.4% between FIDIS™ Connective profile and Polycheck Autoimmune Test the manufacturers’ cutoff; and 96.4% between FIDIS™ Connective profile and Polycheck Autoimmune Test a upward cutoff. Conclusions The three assays showed excellent agreement with each other. With appropriate cutoff, the all three assays for six of the anti-ENA tests investigated in this study can be used in clinical laboratories for detecting the anti-ENAs.
Comparative observational study of aminophylline with prophylactic and therapeutic uses for clinical outcomes in preterm infants
Authors: Bae Mi Hye , Lee Na Rae , Han Young Mi , Byun Shin Yun , Park Kyung Hee
Published: April 2019

Objectives Aminophylline has been used for prevention or treatment of apnea in preterm infants with idiopathic apnea of prematurity. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical usefulness of prophylactic in comparison with therapeutic aminophylline therapy. Methods This retrospective observational study included infants born with a birth weight of < 2,500 g or at < 36 weeks of gestation. Infants born between August 2013 and July 2014 who received aminophylline therapy within 24 hr after birth were assigned to the prophylactic group, while infants born between August 2014 and July 2015 who received aminophylline therapy after obvious apnea were assigned to the therapeutic group. We compared clinical characteristics, including days of ventilator and oxygen therapy and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) between both groups. Results Sixty—four patients and 25 infants were identified in the prophylactic and therapeutic groups, respectively. The mean gestational age and birth weight were 32.57 ± 1.96 weeks and 1765 ± 205 g, respectively, in the prophylactic group and 32.46 ± 1.82 weeks and 1770 ± 250 g, respectively, in the therapeutic group. No significant differences in clinical characteristics were found between the two groups. Similar clinical outcomes, including days of ventilator and oxygen therapy, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), periventricular leukomalacia, and BPD, were observed between the two groups. Conclusions The present study showed that the prophylactic use of aminophylline does not improve the clinical outcomes, including BPD, IVH, and ventilator dependency as compared with therapeutic use. In other words, routine prophylactic use of aminophylline is unnecessary.
Case Report of Prostate Cancer Patient with Only Lymph Node Involvement on F-18 FDG PET/CT
Authors: Jung Hyun Jin , Kang Sungmin
Published: April 2019

We report a case of a patient with locally advanced prostate cancer who had only lymph node involvement without bone metastasis on F-18 FDG PET/CT. A 62-year-old Korean male was admitted to our hospital due to dysuria. His PSA level on admission was 79.35 ng/mL. A transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy confirmed prostate cancer and his Gleason score was 10 (5+5). F-18 FDG PET/CT demonstrated a hypermetabolic mass lesion with SUVmax 7.0 in the prostate and hypermetabolism with SUVmax 4.7 of the abdominal and pelvic lymph nodes. Tc-99m HDP bone scan showed no significant bone metastasis. The patient underwent hormonal therapy for 9 months. Follow-up F-18 FDG PET/CT showed significantly reduced size and FDG uptake in the prostate and abdominal and pelvic lymph nodes. In this case, treatment monitoring with F-18 FDG PET/CT showed decreased mass size and FDG uptake in the prostate and abdominal and pelvic lymph nodes.
Fludarabine and Rituximab in Relapsed or Refractory Hairy Cell Leukmia Variant: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Lee Ji Won , Choi Youn Mi , Yang Jae Yun , Han Seung Moon , Kim Bong Seog , Nam Seung-Hyun
Published: April 2019

Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare chronic B cell leukemia morphologically characterized by cells with an abundant cytoplasm and hair-like projections that can be found in the peripheral blood and bone marrow. The treatment for HCL is splenectomy or chemotherapy with the purine analogs pentostatin and cladribine. However, patients continue to relapse. Retreatment with the same or alternate purine analogs produces lower response rates and a shorter duration of response. Fludarabine is another purine analog widely used in treating indolent lymphoid cancers, often in combination with rituximab. Here, we report a case of HCL variant in a 60-year-old man who experienced multiple relapses after splenectomy and retreatment with cladribine. The patient was then treated with fludarabine and rituximab combination chemotherapy. After the treatment, he achieved complete remission that continued for 35 months.
Common Hepatic Artery Originating from Left Gastric Artery: A Rare Variant Encountered in Gastric Cancer Surgery
Authors: Choi Chang In , Jeon Tae Yong
Published: April 2019

The hepatic artery can have numerous variations. However, a common hepatic artery originating from the left gastric artery and the entire hepatic blood supply furnished by the left gastric artery is an extremely rare anomaly. We encountered this anomaly in a patient with advanced gastric cancer. A surgeon should recognize this image appearance and identify the anomaly. Without knowledge of this anomaly and given the strategy for extensive lesser sac dissection generally employed during gastric cancer surgery, a surgeon could easily inadvertently divide this vessel, resulting in critical liver damage. We report a case of common hepatic artery originating from left gastric artery and review of the literatures.
Hypersensitivity Reaction to Perioperative Drug Mistaken for Local Anesthetic Systemic Toxicity in a Patient under Brachial Plexus Block
Authors: Jun Jee Young , Kim Youn Jin , Kim Jong Hak , Han Jong In
Published: April 2019

Perioperative anaphylaxis, although rare, is a severe, life-threatening unexpected systemic hypersensitivity reaction. Simultaneous administration of various drugs during anesthesia, the difficulty of communicate with patients in sedation and anesthesia, and coverage of the patient with surgical drapes are considered to be factors that impede early recognition of anaphylactic reactions. It is very important to perform an intradermal skin test because antibiotics are the most common cause of perioperative anaphylaxis. We report a case of negative-intradermal skin test antibiotic anaphylaxis mistaken for local aesthetic systemic toxicity without increase of serum tryptase for confirmative diagnostic biomaker during surgery under brachial plexus block. It is not possible to exclude the danger of anaphylaxis completely, even if it is negative-intradermal skin test and normal tryptase level. Therefore, anesthesiologists should be closely monitored and treated early for antibiotics related hypersensitive reaction, like other medicines during anesthesia.
Use of Cadaveric Graft in Reconstruction of Peroneus Brevis Rupture and Lateral Ankle Instability
Authors: Clement Cory P. , Guberman Ronald , Lee Edward , DeJesus Lady P.
Published: April 2019

This case study presents a novel technique of end-to-end implantation of cadaver graft for the repair of a complete transversely torn peroneus brevis tendon and partially torn peroneus longus tendon in a 58-year-old woman with chronic lateral ankle instability and associated lateral collateral tears. She had a history of multiple ankle sprains and had previously undergone a failed peroneus brevis tendon retubularization procedure. The use of cadaver graft is well documented in the literature for tendon repairs but not well documented in end-to-end repair of the peroneal tendons. A review of the literature revealed only one 2013 study reporting on the benefits and clinical outcomes of cadaver allograft use in peroneal reconstruction.
Intergenerational epigenetic inheritance of cancer susceptibility in mammals
Authors: Lesch Bluma J , Tothova Zuzana , Morgan Elizabeth A , Liao Zhicong , Bronson Roderick T , Ebert Benjamin L , Page David C
Published: April 2019

Susceptibility to cancer is heritable, but much of this heritability remains unexplained. Some ‘missing’ heritability may be mediated by epigenetic changes in the parental germ line that do not involve transmission of genetic variants from parent to offspring. We report that deletion of the chromatin regulator Kdm6a (Utx) in the paternal germ line results in elevated tumor incidence in genetically wild type mice. This effect increases following passage through two successive generations of Kdm6a male germline deletion, but is lost following passage through a wild type germ line. The H3K27me3 mark is redistributed in sperm of Kdm6a mutants, and we define approximately 200 H3K27me3-marked regions that exhibit increased DNA methylation, both in sperm of Kdm6a mutants and in somatic tissue of progeny. Hypermethylated regions in enhancers may alter regulation of genes involved in cancer initiation or progression. Epigenetic changes in male gametes may therefore impact cancer susceptibility in adult offspring.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae goes through distinct metabolic phases during its replicative lifespan
Authors: Leupold Simeon , Hubmann Georg , Litsios Athanasios , Meinema Anne C , Takhaveev Vakil , Papagiannakis Alexandros , Niebel Bastian , Janssens Georges , Siegel David , Heinemann Matthias
Published: April 2019

A comprehensive description of the phenotypic changes during cellular aging is key towards unraveling its causal forces. Previously, we mapped age-related changes in the proteome and transcriptome (Janssens et al., 2015). Here, employing the same experimental procedure and model-based inference, we generate a comprehensive account of metabolic changes during the replicative life of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. With age, we found decreasing metabolite levels, decreasing growth and substrate uptake rates accompanied by a switch from aerobic fermentation to respiration, with glycerol and acetate production. The identified metabolic fluxes revealed an increase in redox cofactor turnover, likely to combat increased production of reactive oxygen species. The metabolic changes are possibly a result of the age-associated decrease in surface area per cell volume. With metabolism being an important factor of the cellular phenotype, this work complements our recent mapping of the transcriptomic and proteomic changes towards a holistic description of the cellular phenotype during aging.
Evolution of empathetic moral evaluation
Authors: Radzvilavicius Arunas L , Stewart Alexander J , Plotkin Joshua B
Published: April 2019

Social norms can promote cooperation by assigning reputations to individuals based on their past actions. A good reputation indicates that an individual is likely to reciprocate. A large body of research has established norms of moral assessment that promote cooperation, assuming reputations are objective. But without a centralized institution to provide objective evaluation, opinions about an individual’s reputation may differ across a population. In this setting we study the role of empathy–the capacity to form moral evaluations from another person’s perspective. We show that empathy tends to foster cooperation by reducing the rate of unjustified defection. The norms of moral evaluation previously considered most socially beneficial depend on high levels of empathy, whereas different norms maximize social welfare in populations incapable of empathy. Finally, we show that empathy itself can evolve through social contagion. We conclude that a capacity for empathy is a key component for sustaining cooperation in societies.
Geospatial Analysis of Groundwater Quality in Ludhiana, Punjab (India)
Authors: Deep Singh Dapinder , Sharma Mukta , Sahoo Sashikanta , John Siby
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a geospatial analysis of the groundwater quality of Ludhiana, Punjab, India. The groundwater samples were collected from 99 locations using grid based sampling procedure and analysed for parameters viz. pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness (TH), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), fluoride (F-), chloride (Cl-), nitrate (NO3-), sulphate (SO24-) and bicarbonate (HCO3-). Sampling was done during both pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods. Water quality index (WQI) was used to represent the groundwater quality of the study area. The WQI coupled with the spatial maps indicated that merely (1%) of the total study area had good groundwater quality and the rest of the study area fell under poor, very poor and unsuitable for drinking purpose. The geographical information system (GIS) based groundwater quality mapping presented in this paper could be a potential tool for groundwater quality management.
Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Severe Isolated Tricuspid Regurgitation
Authors: Donal Erwan , Dreyfus Julien , Leurent Guillaume , Coisne Augustin , Leroux Pierre-Yves , Ganivet Anne , Sportouch Catherine , Lavie-Badie Yoan , Guerin Patrice , Rouleau Frédéric , Diakov Christelle , van der Heyden Jan , Lafitte Stéphane , Obadia Jean-François , Nejjari Mohammed , Karam Nicole , Bernard Anne , Neylon Antoinette , Pierrard Romain , Tchetche Didier , Ghostine Said , Ducrocq Gregory , Si Moussi Thiziri , Jeu Antoine , Peltier Marcel , Cosyns Bernard , Le Dolley Yvan , Habib Gilbert , Auffret Vincent , Le Ven Florent , Picard François , Piriou Nicolas , Laperche Thierry , Galli Elena , Istratoaie Sabina , Jouan Jerome , Bonnet Guillaume , de Groote Pascal , Anselmi Amedeo , Trochu Jean-Noel , Oger Emmanuel ,   Tri-Fr Investigators
Published: November 2024

Importance

Correction of tricuspid regurgitation using tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (T-TEER) in addition to guideline-directed optimized medical therapy (OMT) may improve clinical outcomes.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of T-TEER + OMT vs OMT alone in patients with severe, symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Investigator-initiated, prospective, randomized (1:1) trial evaluating T-TEER + OMT vs OMT alone in adult patients with severe, symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation. The trial was conducted at 24 centers in France and Belgium (March 2021 to March 2023; latest follow-up in April 2024).

Intervention

Patients were randomized to T-TEER + OMT or OMT alone.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was a composite clinical end point at 1 year comprising change in New York Heart Association class, change in patient global assessment, or occurrence of major cardiovascular events. Tricuspid regurgitation severity was the first of 6 secondary outcomes analyzed in a hierarchical closed-testing procedure, including Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) score, patient global assessment, and a composite outcome of all-cause death, tricuspid valve surgery, KCCQ score improvement, or time to hospitalization for heart failure.

Results

Of 300 enrolled patients (mean age, 78 [SD, 6] years, 63.7% women), 152 were allocated to T-TEER + OMT and 148 to OMT alone. At 1 year, 109 patients (74.1%) in the T-TEER + OMT group had an improved composite score compared with 58 patients (40.6%) in the OMT-alone group. Massive or torrential tricuspid regurgitation was found in 6.8% of patients in the T-TEER + OMT group and in 53.5% of those in the OMT-alone group (P < .001). Mean overall KCCQ summary score at 1 year was 69.9 (SD, 25.5) for the T-TEER + OMT group and 55.4 (SD, 28.8) for the OMT-alone group (P < .001). The win ratio for the composite secondary outcome was 2.06 (95% CI, 1.38-3.08) (P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

T-TEER reduces tricuspid regurgitation severity and improves a composite score driven by improved patient-reported outcome measures in patients with severe, symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04646811
Recommendations to Ensure Safety of AI in Real-World Clinical Care
Authors: Sittig Dean F. , Singh Hardeep
Published: November 2024

This Viewpoint provides recommendations for health care organizations (HCOs) and clinicians to facilitate the use of artificial intelligence (AI)–enabled systems, including electronic health records with AI features, in routine clinical care and provides pragmatic guidance for HCOs and clinicians at all stages of AI implementation.
Child Health Care at a Crossroads—A Report From the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Authors: Kelleher Kelly J. , Perrin James M. , Schuck Julie , Cheng Tina L.
Published: November 2024

This Viewpoint discusses changes needed at local, state, and national levels to improve child health care.
Wood Lamp as a Possible Helpful Diagnostic Tool to Detect Cutaneous Diphtheria
Authors: Madanchi Matiar , Curatolo Riccardo , Navarini Alexander A. , Juratli Hazem A.
Published: November 2024

This case report describes a patient with a cutaneous diphtheria ulcer that was detected using Wood lamp.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma and Immunosuppression, UV Radiation, and Merkel Cell Polyomavirus
Authors: Tribble Jacob T. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Brownell Isaac , Cahoon Elizabeth K. , Sargen Michael R. , Shiels Meredith S. , Luo Qianlai , Cohen Colby , Drezner Kate , Hernandez Brenda , Moreno Adrianne , Pawlish Karen , Saafir-Callaway Brittani , Engels Eric A. , Volesky-Avellaneda Karena D.
Published: November 2024

Importance

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive skin cancer. Quantifying the contribution of major potentially modifiable risk factors to the burden of MCC may inform prevention efforts.

Objective

To estimate the population attributable fraction of MCC cases in the US that were attributable to major immunosuppressing conditions (eg, HIV, solid organ transplant, chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL]), ambient UV radiation [UVR] exposure, and Merkel cell polyomavirus [MCPyV]).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This epidemiological assessment combined data from population-based registries and case series and included cases of MCC that were diagnosed from January 2001 to December 2019 diagnosed in people with HIV, solid organ transplant recipients, and patients with CLL who were identified through population-based cancer registries and linkages with HIV and transplant registries. UVR-based on cloud-adjusted daily ambient UVR irradiance was merged with cancer registry data on the county of residence at diagnosis. Studies reporting the prevalence of MCPyV in MCC specimens collected in the US were combined via a meta-analysis.

Exposures

HIV, solid organ transplant, CLL, UVR, and MCPyV.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Population attributable fraction of MCC cases attributable to major risk factors.

Results

A total of 38 020 MCCs were diagnosed in the US among xx patients (14 325 [38%] female individuals; 1586 [4%] Hispanic, 561 [1%] non-Hispanic Black, and 35 171 [93%] non-Hispanic White individuals). Compared with the general US population, MCC incidence was elevated among people with HIV (standardized incidence ratio [SIR], 2.78), organ transplant recipients (SIR, 13.1), and patients with CLL (SIR, 5.75). Due to the rarity of these conditions, only 0.2% (95% CI, 0.1%-0.3%) of MCC cases were attributable to HIV, 1.5% (95% CI, 1.4%-1.7%) to solid organ transplant, and 0.8% (95% CI, 0.5%-1.3%) to CLL. Compared with individuals of racial and ethnic minority groups, MCC incidence was elevated among non-Hispanic White individuals at lower and higher ambient UVR exposure levels (incidence rate ratios: 4.05 and 4.91, respectively, for MCC on the head and neck). Overall, 65.1% (95% CI, 63.6%-66.7%) of MCCs were attributable to UVR. Based on a meta-analysis of 19 case series, 63.8% (95% CI, 54.5%-70.9%) of MCCs were attributable to MCPyV. Studies were identified from a MEDLINE search performed on October 12, 2023.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this study suggest that most MCC cases in the US were attributable to ambient UVR exposure or MCPyV, with a small fraction due to immunosuppressive conditions. Efforts to lower MCC incidence could focus on limiting UVR exposure.
Participation of Behavioral Health Facilities in Medicare Accountable Care Organizations
Authors: Hou Yucheng , Busch Susan H. , Newton Helen
Published: November 2024

This cross-sectional study examines temporal trends in behavioral health facility inclusion in accountable care organizations (ACOs) and beneficiary characteristics of such ACOs.
Oropharyngeal Necrotizing Fasciitis in a Previously Healthy Patient
Authors: Butskiy Oleksandr , Trinh Gina
Published: November 2024

This case report describes a man in his 60s with no notable medical history who presented with severe, progressive dysphagia and odynophagia and was subsequently diagnosed with oropharyngeal necrotizing fasciitis of the right tonsil.
Firm Gingival Enlargement in the Anterior Maxilla
Authors: Schiappa Michael , Housley Smith Molly , Callahan Nicholas F.
Published: November 2024

A 12-year-old boy with no relevant medical history presented with a left maxillary gingival swelling of 4 years’ duration associated with palatal tipping of the left maxillary central incisor. What is your diagnosis?
A Framework for Suicide Risk Screening After Overdose
Authors: Dernbach Matthew Robert , Smith Randi N. , Carpenter Joseph E.
Published: November 2024

This Viewpoint proposes applying a systematic curriculum for early management of traumatically injured patients as a framework for suicide risk screening after overdose.
Recent trends and therapeutic potential of phytoceutical‐based nanoparticle delivery systems in mitigating non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Haysom‐McDowell Adam , Paudel Keshav Raj , Yeung Stewart , Kokkinis Sofia , El Sherkawi Tammam , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar , Adams Jon , Dua Kamal , De Rubis Gabriele
Published: November 2024

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally, with non‐small cell lung cancer accounting for the majority (85%) of cases. Standard treatments including chemotherapy and radiotherapy present multiple adverse effects. Medicinal plants, used for centuries, are traditionally processed by methods such as boiling and oral ingestion, However, water solubility, absorption, and hepatic metabolism reduce phytoceutical bioavailability. More recently, isolated molecular compounds from these plants can be extracted with these phytoceuticals administered either individually or as an adjunct with standard therapy. Phytoceuticals have been shown to alleviate symptoms, may reduce dosage of chemotherapy and, in some cases, enhance pharmaceutical mechanisms. Research has identified many phytoceuticals' actions on cancer‐associated pathways, such as oncogenesis, the tumour microenvironment, tumour cell proliferation, metastasis, and apoptosis. The development of novel nanoparticle delivery systems such as solid lipid nanoparticles, liquid crystalline nanoparticles, and liposomes has enhanced the bioavailability and targeted delivery of pharmaceuticals and phytoceuticals. This review explores the biological pathways associated with non‐small cell lung cancer, a diverse range of phytoceuticals, the cancer pathways they act upon, and the pros and cons of several nanoparticle delivery systems.
The role of fibromodulin in myocardial fibrosis in a diabetic cardiomyopathy rat model
Authors: Dai Xiyan , Yang Fan , Chen Dongping , Yang Lu , Dong Zhihui , Chen Can , Xiao Jianmin
Published: November 2024

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is pathologically characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, leading to myocardial fibrosis. Fibromodulin (Fmod) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases. However, the role and mechanism of Fmod in DCM‐related myocardial fibrosis remain unclear. In the present study, we established a DCM rat model and an in vitro model of rat primary cardiac fibroblasts (RPCFs) exposed to high glucose. We assessed mRNA and protein expression levels of Col1a1, Col3a1, α‐SMA and Fmod in both models. Fmod‐overexpressing (ov‐Fmod) and Fmod‐knockdown (si‐Fmod) rat cardiac fibroblasts (RCFs) were generated. Subsequently, whole RNA sequencing was conducted on ov‐Fmod RCFs. The gene Col15a1 was evaluated in the DCM rat and all cell models. The correlation between plasma levels of Fmod and Col15a1 in DCM rat models was assessed. Transcription and protein levels of Fmod, Col1a1, Col3a1 and α‐SMA were significantly elevated in DCM rat hearts and RPCFs. In ov‐Fmod RCFs, fibrosis markers were similarly increased, except for Col3a1, which decreased. The Col1a1/Col3a1 ratio was elevated. Conversely, knocking down Fmod yielded opposite results. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses indicated that Fmod participates in multiple fibrosis‐related pathways, affecting Col15a1. Expression of Col15a1 was significantly decreased in all models, compared to controls, except in si‐Fmod RCFs. Importantly, Col15a1 and Fmod in plasma exhibited an inverse relationship in DCM. In summary, Fmod is implicated in DCM, with Fmod overexpression downregulating Col15a1 and increasing the Col1a1/Col3a1 ratio. This mechanism may influence diastolic heart failure in DCM by modulating myocardial stiffness and elasticity.
Staining Procedures
Authors: Dallas Steven D. , Harrington Amanda T.
Published: November 2024

This chapter presents two primary applications of the Gram stain in clinical microbiology. The first and most immediately impactful application is to detect and differentiate microorganisms including bacteria, yeast, fungi, and even some parasites directly from specimens. The second application is to confirm and describe bacterial growth from solid or liquid culture media as the first step in bacterial identification flowcharts. Bacteria stain is either Gram positive or Gram negative on the basis of differences in cell wall composition and architecture. The acridine orange fluorescent stain is an adjunct to or confirmatory test for the Gram stain, of use especially when direct specimen Gram stain results are inconclusive. The detection of leukocytes, predominantly neutrophils, in methylene blue‐stained fecal specimens assists in the diagnosis of infectious diarrhea. Dark‐field microscopy is used to demonstrate the presence of motile spirochetes of
Treponema pallidum
in lesions or aspirates in early‐stage syphilis prior to healing of lesions.
Introduction to the 13th Edition of the
Manual of Clinical Microbiology
Authors: Carroll Karen C. , Pfaller Michael A.
Published: November 2024

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book includes updated content on all aspects of microbiology, authored by world experts on each subject and edited by a highly committed team of volume and section editors working within the usual 4‐year publication cycle. It presents practical information for daily improvements in test utilization and ways to collaborate with antimicrobial stewardship teams. The book accommodates taxonomic changes among the
Enterobacterales
by reorganizing some of the existing chapters and creating a new separate chapter on
Salmonella
species. Antimicrobial resistance, particularly among Gram negative organisms, continues to challenge microbiology laboratories and clinicians.
Microscopy
Authors: Dallas Steven D.
Published: November 2024

Microscopic examination remains the first step in detecting a broad range of pathogens, both directly from specimens and for assessing the morphology of organisms from solid or liquid culture media. The most profound limitation of direct specimen microscopy is poor sensitivity compared to culture and molecular techniques. The specificity of microscopy compared to culture may also be an issue in direct specimen examination. Visible light exhibits the characteristics of particles, waves, and rays. Contrast is the ability to find and see the specimen surface or internal structural details distinctly. The eyepieces, or oculars, contain the final lenses in the optical train. Bright‐field microscopy is the basic technique of any light microscope in the clinical laboratory. Köhler illumination was developed in the 1890s by August Köhler. The fluorescence microscope was developed in the early 20th century.
Introduction to the special issue on Innovative Applications of Artificial Intelligence (IAAI 2024)
Authors: Wong Alexander , Chen Yuhao , Seyler Jan
Published: November 2024

This special issue of AI Magazine covers select applications from the Innovative Applications of Artificial Intelligence (IAAI) conference held in 2024 in Vancouver, Canada. The articles address a broad range of very challenging issues and contain great lessons for AI researchers and application developers.
Development of dedicated phantom for end‐to‐end testing of multiple image‐guidance configurations incorporating light‐section‐based surface guidance system
Authors: Hayashi Naoki , Saito Tatsunori , Ouchi Kazuki , Amma Hiroshi , Muraki Yuta , Yasui Keisuke , Nozue Masashi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Radiotherapy devices with multiple image‐guidance systems, such as surface‐guided radiation therapy (SGRT), have been widely used in recent years. However, in the case of SGRT devices using the light‐section method, coordinate coincidence evaluation using a phantom for SGRT devices with patterned light projection is not appropriate. Hence, this study aims to develop a dedicated phantom able to evaluate both the detection accuracy and coordinate coincidence of multiple IGRT configurations, including light‐section‐based SGRT devices.

Materials and method

First, we developed an end‐to‐end (E2E) phantom that can be scanned by CT and detected by a light‐section‐method‐based SGRT device. Second, the detection accuracy of the phantom under three reference data acquisition conditions was evaluated using the E2E phantom. The three conditions were a body surface image detected by VOXELAN in the simulation CT room, a body surface image reconstructed from the volume data of the simulation CT room, and a body surface image acquired by VOXELAN in the radiotherapy room. Finally, the coordinate coincidence of the image‐guidance system was evaluated using the E2E phantom.

Result

Upon comparing detection accuracy among the three reference data acquisition methods, we found that the reference data generated in the CT room had the largest error (0.58 mm at maximum). The coordinate coincidences of the multiple image‐guidance systems were within 1 mm for all components after the maintenance of VOXELAN using E2E phantom. Furthermore, the long‐term direction stability was worse in the longitudinal direction.

Conclusion

The new E2E phantom can be used to evaluate the detection accuracy of a light‐section‐based SGRT system and the coordinate coincidence using a Winston–Lutz‐based method in multiple image‐guided configurations. The detection accuracy in the three different reference images of VOXELAN using this phantom improved to within 1 mm in all directions.
Beam quality correction factors for dose measurements around 192Ir brachytherapy sources
Authors: Thrapsanioti Zoi , Peppa Vasiliki , Hourdakis Costas J. , Karaiskos Pantelis , Lekatou Aristea , Pantelis Evaggelos
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To provide beam quality correction factors () for detectors used in 192Ir brachytherapy dosimetry measurements.

Materials and Methods

Ten detectors were studied, including the PTW 30013 and Exrading12 Farmer large cavity chambers, seven medium (0.1–0.3 cm3) and small (< 0.1 cm3) cavity chambers, and a synthetic microdiamond detector. The kQ,Qo correction factors were calculated at distances from 1 to 10 cm away from an 192Ir source, using the EGSnrc Monte Carlo (MC) code. All detectors were calibrated in a 60Co 10 × 10 cm2 reference field provided by standard calibration laboratories. The impact of the central electrode, stem and wall on the detectors’ responses in 192Ir photon energies was investigated. An experimental procedure was additionally applied for dose measurements around a microSelectron‐v2 192Ir high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy source using a motorized water phantom.

Results

Farmer chambers underestimated the dose near the source due to signal volume averaging effects, resulting in kQ,Qo values ranging from 1.177 and 1.317 at 1 cm, decreasing with distance to between 0.980 and 1.005 at 10 cm. Small cavity volume detectors should be used close to the source. The kQ,Qo for the studied small and medium cavity volume detectors were found to be close to unity (within 1.3%), showing also a small dependence on source‐to‐detector distance, except for ion chambers containing high‐Z materials in their construction. The presence of high‐Z materials caused an overresponse in these detectors, resulting in kQ,Qo values ranging from 0.950 at 1 cm to 0.729 at 10 cm away from the source. A dose rate constant of (1.114 ± 0.023)cGyh−1U−1 was found in agreement with the literature (within 0.5%).

Conclusions

kQ,Qo values were calculated for dose measurements around 192Ir brachytherapy sources. Farmer chambers should be preferred for measurements at increased distances, whereas small or medium cavity volume detectors, not containing high‐Z materials, should be used close to the source.
Assessing Novel Antibody‐Based Therapies in Reconstructive 3D Cell Models of the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Domenici Giacomo , Lopes Nuno F. , Trindade Gonçalo , Ramella Gal Isabella , Miret Minard Joan , Rebelo Sofia P. , Freitas Catarina , Duarte Nádia , Brito Catarina
Published: November 2024

Targeted, combinatorial, and immunomodulatory therapies, such as antibody‐drug conjugates (ADCs) and immunomodulatory antibodies (Abs), are powerful weapons against tumor cells and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Therefore, the evaluation of such therapies should be conducted in pre‐clinical models able to recapitulate the complex cellular and molecular crosstalk of the TME. To build‐in critical hallmarks of the TME, a breast cancer heterotypic 3D cell model (3D‐3) is devised using a microencapsulation strategy with an inert biomaterial (alginate) and agitation‐based cultures. Both stromal and immune components are added to multicellular tumor spheroids, therefore fostering cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) immunomodulatory interactions. The potential of the methodology to assess Ab‐based therapies is then addressed by employing a series of anti‐HER2‐based ADCs. ADCs induced tumor‐cell specific cytotoxicity toward HER2+ breast cancer spheroids while sparing HER2‐negative CAFs. In addition, an immunomodulatory blocking Ab against colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) decreases the expression of immunosuppressive and anti‐inflammatory markers in TAMs, like what is previously observed upon in vivo α‐CSF1R administration. Collectively, the human TME‐based 3D‐3 cell model is a suitable tool to evaluate the anti‐tumor and immunomodulatory potential of novel antibody‐based therapies directed against TME targets, such as cancer cells and macrophages.
A Review on Corrosion Behavior and Surface Modification Technology of Nickel Aluminum Bronze Alloys: Current Research and Prospects
Authors: Wang Lixiang , Liu Kun , Li Jie , Geng Shaoning
Published: November 2024

Nickel aluminum bronze alloy, a complex alloy containing multiple phases, has become the most common material for naval propellers due to its good corrosion resistance. Traditional cast nickel aluminum bronze shows serious corrosion behavior in harsh service environments. This article reviews progress on the corrosion behaviors and corrosion mechanism of nickel aluminum bronze in highly corrosive and complex marine environments and systematically discusses the research status of the surface modification technologies such as laser surface strengthening, mechanical shot peening, friction stir and thermal spraying, and so on. To improve the comprehensive performance of nickel aluminum bronze, this work focuses on analyzing the effect of process parameters on the corrosion resistance of nickel aluminum bronze alloy while researching propeller blade surface modification technology. Finally, the future research and development direction of nickel aluminum bronze in the fields of laser and arc additive manufacturing is prospected.