bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of subthreshold levels of amyloid deposition on conversion to dementia in patients with amyloid-negative amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Kim Hyung-Ji , Oh Jungsu S. , Lim Jae-Sung , Lee Sunju , Jo Sungyang , Chung E-Nae , Shim Woo-Hyun , Oh Minyoung , Kim Jae Seung , Roh Jee Hoon , Lee Jae-Hong ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2022

Background

About 40–50% of patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are found to have no significant Alzheimer’s pathology based on amyloid PET positivity. Notably, conversion to dementia in this population is known to occur much less often than in amyloid-positive MCI. However, the relationship between MCI and brain amyloid deposition remains largely unknown. Therefore, we investigated the influence of subthreshold levels of amyloid deposition on conversion to dementia in amnestic MCI patients with negative amyloid PET scans.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study of patients with amyloid-negative amnestic MCI who visited the memory clinic of Asan Medical Center. All participants underwent detailed neuropsychological testing, brain magnetic resonance imaging, and [18F]-florbetaben (FBB) positron emission tomography scan (PET). Conversion to dementia was determined by a neurologist based on a clinical interview with a detailed neuropsychological test or a decline in the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination score of more than 4 points per year combined with impaired activities of daily living. Regional cortical amyloid levels were calculated, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for conversion to dementia was obtained. To increase the reliability of the results of the study, we analyzed the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) dataset together.

Results

During the follow-up period, 36% (39/107) of patients converted to dementia from amnestic MCI. The dementia converter group displayed increased standardized uptake value ratio (SUVR) values of FBB on PET in the bilateral temporal, parietal, posterior cingulate, occipital, and left precuneus cortices as well as increased global SUVR. Among volume of interests, the left parietal SUVR predicted conversion to dementia with the highest accuracy in the ROC analysis (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.762, P < 0.001). The combination of precuneus, parietal cortex, and FBB composite SUVRs also showed a higher accuracy in predicting conversion to dementia than other models (AUC = 0.763). Of the results of ADNI data, the SUVR of the left precuneus SUVR showed the highest AUC (AUC = 0.596, P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that subthreshold amyloid levels may contribute to conversion to dementia in patients with amyloid-negative amnestic MCI.
Multidomain trials to prevent dementia: addressing methodological challenges
Authors: Montero-Odasso Manuel , Zou G Y , Kamkar Nellie , Feldman Howard H. , Belleville Sylvie , Chertkow Howard , Nygaard Haakon B , Son Surim , Speechley Mark
Published: July 2022

Background

Multidomain trials to prevent dementia by simultaneously targeting multiple risk factors with non-pharmacological lifestyle interventions show promise. Designing trials to evaluate the efficacy of individual interventions and their combinations is methodologically challenging. Determining the efficacy is, nevertheless, important to individuals, payers, and for resource allocations to support intervention implementation.

Main body

The central rationale for seminal trials improving cardiovascular health or reducing falls risk in older adults is that multifactorial conditions may be amenable to improvement by simultaneously targeting multiple modifiable risk factors. Similar reasoning underlies lifestyle interventions to reduce dementia risk using combinations of physical exercise, cognitive training, diet, amelioration of vascular-metabolic risk factors, and improving sleep quality. Randomizing individuals with at least two modifiable risk factors to “standardly tailored” interventions to mitigate their risk factors, versus a comparator arm, will yield an unbiased estimate of the cumulative average effect of modifying more versus fewer risk factors. The between-group difference in the cognitive primary outcome will reflect both the main effects of the mitigated risk factors, as well as their synergistic effects. However, given the positive trial results, there are inherent challenges in quantifying post hoc which components, or combination of components, were responsible for improvements in cognition. Here, we elaborate on these methodological challenges and important considerations in using a standardly tailored design with two arms (one consisting of multidomain interventions tailored to participants’ risk profiles and another consisting of active control conditions). We compare this approach to fully factorial designs and highlight the disadvantages and advantages of each. We discuss partial solutions, including analytical strategies such as risk reduction scores that measure reductions in the number or severity of risk factors in each study arm. Positive results can support the causal inference that between-group differences in the primary cognitive outcome were due to risk factor modification.

Conclusion

Standardly tailored designs are pragmatic and feasible evaluations of multidomain interventions to reduce dementia risk. We propose sensitivity and exploratory analyses of between-group reductions in the severity of risk factors, as a methodology to bolster causal inferences that between-group differences in the primary cognitive outcome are due to the risk factors modified.
Condition assessment of different historic bridges using Non Destructive Techniques (NDT) with FTIR analysis in Izmir after the Samos Island earthquake
Authors: Kilic Gokhan
Published: July 2022

The study aimed to contribute to condition assessments of historic bridges in Izmir, Turkey and the estimation of their predictable functional lifetime after the Samos earthquake. This document is a summary of the study into the reliability of Non-Destructive Techniques (NDT) for testing the state of different historic bridges impacted by the October 30, 2020 Earthquake. Besides providing data on material characteristics, NDT can help identify hidden bridge structure defects, such as cavities and moisture. This study also used FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) spectral data analysis in conjunction with NDT as a multidisciplinary evaluation technique and demonstrates the value of this approach in the field. This study is of special relevance to bridge engineers.
The swarm Langmuir probe ion drift, density and effective mass (SLIDEM) product
Authors: Pakhotin I. P. , Burchill J. K. , Förster M. , Lomidze L.
Published: July 2022

Current methods for estimating ion density on Swarm rely on the assumption of 100% O + and no along-track ion velocity flows. These assumptions are routinely violated, particularly on the nightside and during high-latitude and polar cap traversals, compromising the accuracy of the measurements. The use of faceplate current data along with the Langmuir probe ion admittance measurements, and orbital-motion limited (OML) theory, make it possible to relax some of the assumptions inherent in current ESA Swarm density estimates. This further yields along-track ion drift and effective ion mass estimates. This paper describes the theoretical basis for estimating revised ion density, providing a new estimate for effective ion mass, as well as an alternative way of estimating along-track ion drift. The complete Swarm historical data set has been generated and validated using empirical models (International Reference Ionosphere, and an empirical electric field model), as well as ground-spacecraft conjunctions. Case studies and statistical results reveal clear geophysical signatures in the new product of light ions at low- and mid-latitudes and along-track ion drift at high latitudes, and their response to space weather.

Graphical Abstract
A comparison between anorganic bone and collagen-preserving bone xenografts for alveolar ridge preservation: systematic review and future perspectives
Authors: Di Stefano Danilo Alessio , Orlando Francesco , Ottobelli Marco , Fiori Davide , Garagiola Umberto
Published: July 2022

After tooth extraction, dimensional changes affect the alveolar socket, leading to loss in alveolar bone height and width. Histological modifications also occur, with initial formation of a blood clot that is replaced with granulation tissue and subsequently with a provisional connective tissue matrix. Spontaneous healing ends with socket filling with woven bone, which is gradually replaced with lamellar bone and bone marrow. Adequate alveolar ridge dimensions and bone quality are required to assure optimal stability and osseointegration following dental implant placement. When a tooth is extracted, alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) procedures are an effective method to prevent collapse of the post-extraction socket. Heterologous bone is widely chosen by clinicians for ARP, and anorganic bone xenografts (ABXs) made bioinert by heat treatment represents the most used biomaterial in clinical applications. Collagen-preserving bone xenografts (CBXs) made of porcine or equine bone are fabricated by less invasive chemical or enzymatic treatments to remove xenogenic antigens, and these are also effective in preserving post-extraction sites. Clinical differences between anorganic bone substitutes and collagen-preserving materials are not well documented in the literature but understanding these differences could clarify how processing protocols influence biomaterial behavior in situ. This systematic review of the literature compares the dimensional changes and histological features of ABXs versus CBXs in ridge preservation procedures to promote awareness of different bone xenograft efficacies in stimulating the healing of post-extraction sockets.
Mutation update of SERPING1 related to hereditary angioedema in the Chinese population
Authors: Wang Xue , Lei Shubin , Xu Yingyang , Liu Shuang , Zhi Yuxiang
Published: July 2022

Background

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease characterized by recurrent attacks of severe swellings of the skin and submucosa. More than 900 variants of theSERPING1gene associated with HAE have been identified. However, only approximately 50 variants have been identified in the Chinese population. This study aimed to update the mutational spectrum in Chinese HAE patients and provide evidence for the accurate diagnosis of HAE.

Methods

A total of 97 unrelated HAE patients were enrolled in the study. Sanger sequencing and multiple ligation-dependent probe amplification analysis were used to identify the variants in theSERPING1gene. The variants were reviewed in a number of databases, including the Human Gene Mutation Database (HGMD) (http://www.hgmd.cf.ac.uk/) and the Leiden Open Variation Database (LOVD,https://databases.lovd.nl/shared/variants/SERPING1). The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics-Association for Molecular Pathology (ACMG-AMP) criteria was used to determine the pathogenicity of the variants.

Results

Of the 97 patients, 76 different variants were identified in 90 of them and no disease-causing variants were identified in the remaining 7 patients. Among the 76 variants, 35 variants were novel and submitted to ClinVar. Missense and in-frame variants were the most common variants (36.8%), followed by frameshift (28.9%), nonsense (14.5%), splice site (13.2%) variants, and gross deletions/duplications (6.6%).

Conclusions

Our findings broaden the mutational spectrum ofSERPING1and provide evidence for accurate diagnosis and predictive genetic counseling.
From the ground up: understanding the developing infrastructure and resources of 3D printing facilities in hospital-based settings
Authors: Shine Kristy M. , Schlegel Lauren , Ho Michelle , Boyd Kaitlyn , Pugliese Robert
Published: July 2022

Background

3D printing is a popular technology in many industries secondary to its ability to rapidly produce inexpensive, high fidelity models/products, mainly through layer-by-layer fusion of various substrate materials. In healthcare, 3D printing has garnered interest for its applications in surgery, simulation, education, and medical device development, and 3D printing facilities are now being integrated into hospital-based settings. Yet, little is known regarding the leadership, resources, outputs, and role of these new onsite entities.

Methods

The purpose of this research was to survey features of North American hospital-based 3D printing facilities to understand their design and utility in anticipation of future expansion. Hospital-based 3D printing labs were recruited through online special interest groups to participate via survey response. Anonymous, voluntary data were collected from 21 facilities over 9 weeks and reported/analyzed in aggregate.

Results

Of the respondents, > 50% were founded in the past 5 years and 80% in the past decade, indicating recent and rapid growth of such facilities. Labs were most commonly found within large, university-affiliated hospitals/health systems with administration frequently, but not exclusively, through radiology departments, which was shown to enhance collaboration. All groups reported collaborating with other medical specialties/departments and image segmentation as part of the workflow, showing widespread interest in high fidelity, personalized medicine applications. Lab leadership was most often multidisciplinary, with physicians present on nearly all leadership teams. Budgets, personnel, and outputs varied among groups, however, all groups reported engagement in multiple 3D printing applications.

Conclusion

This preliminary study provides a foundation for understanding the unique nature of hospital-based 3D printing labs. While there is much to learn about such in-house facilities, the data obtained reveal important baseline characteristics. Further research is indicated to validate these early findings and create a detailed picture of the developing infrastructure of 3D printing in healthcare settings.
Chronicle updates in cyclodextrin-based carriers for drug delivery
Authors: Singh Jatinder , Dhamija Isha , Meehenian Harmanpreet , Kumar Neeraj , Simran Simran , Muskan Muskan , Verma Madan L. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: July 2022

Background

Cyclodextrins offer a range of biomedical applications in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Cyclodextrins (CDs) are oligosaccharides composed of glucose as repeating units (6–9 repeating units given terms α, β, γ and δ, respectively). Its inner core size varies with the type of CD, and this variation finds its fitness with small- to larger-sized organic drug molecules to resolve its delivery problems. Employment of CDs in drug delivery was conceptualized since its initial development (Year 1891). However, the very first pharmaceutical product was in the market in 1976. CDs not only act as carrier or as self-assembly hydrogel or hybrid gels for delivery of hydrophobic drugs but also reported as a modifier of the gelling temperature of agarose and make it suitable for drug delivery.

Main body

This review represents the trend of research on CDs with reference to drug delivery. Phase I (1975–1980) CD research trend shows inclination towards β-CD molecules for inclusion complex with a wide range of drugs. Decade of phase II (1981–1990) worked majorly on other natural CDs with a glimpse of its derivative for drug delivery system. Critical literature surveys from the years 1991–2000 (phase III) provide research visualization of CD derivatives supported with animal studies. Phase IV (2001–2010) can be attributed as the golden period of CDs with its extreme exploitation in many novel drug delivery systems (aerosols, microemulsion, polymeric nanoparticles, osmotic pumps, and sustain release), while in most last decade CDs were observed in association with nanoscale systems.

Conclusions

In the view of its incessant utilization in wider applications including drug carrier, gel, gel modifier and nano-composite modifier properties, its chronicle update in the drug delivery knowledge database would inspire the researchers for multidisciplinary research. To sum up, almost every emerging novel drug delivery system in the near future will make the earnest effort to take advantage of the properties of CDs for their better efficacy, stability, prevention of toxicity and patient acceptability.
Heart recovery and reverse remodeling following lung transplant in pulmonary artery hypertension
Authors: Alshimali Hussain , Coppolino Antonio , Keshk Mohamed A. , Young John S. , Itoh Akinobu , Goldberg Hilary J. , Sharma Nirmal S. , Mallidi Hari R.
Published: July 2022

Background

Pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease that result in right heart dysfunction. Lung transplantation (LTx) improve survival in end-stage disease. The aim of this study is to assess heart recovery after LTx for patients with primary and secondary pulmonary hypertension.

Methods

We conducted a single center retrospective review for patients with primary and secondary PAH underwent LTx between the period of January 2015 and December 2020. Baseline characteristics and echocardiographic measures were assessed pre-operative and after 1 year follow-up. Survival comparison between primary and secondary PAH was estimated by Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

We identified 43 participants for the study. Among the participants, 11 case had primary PAH. Median age during transplant was 60 years (45.5, 65.5). Left atrium anterio-posterior dimensions, systolic right ventricle pressure tricuspid peal regurgitant velocity and severity of tricuspid regurgitation were found to be significantly improved post-operatively compared to pre-operative echocardiography (p value < 0.05). Overall mortality was not significant between primary and secondary PAH (p value = 0.66).

Conclusions

LTx can reverse heart remodeling and facilitate recovery in primary and secondary PAH. Our data confirm the importance of LTx as a viable option in PAH failing medical treatment.
Clinical indications and triaging for adult transthoracic echocardiography: a consensus statement by the British Society of Echocardiography in collaboration with British Heart Valve Society
Authors: Bennett Sadie , Stout Martin , Ingram Thomas E. , Pearce Keith , Griffiths Timothy , Duckett Simon , Heatlie Grant , Thompson Patrick , Tweedie Judith , Sopala Jo , Ritzmann Sarah , Victor Kelly , Skipper Judith , Shah Benoy N. , Robinson Shaun , Potter Andrew , Augustine Daniel X. , Colebourn Claire L.
Published: July 2022

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is widely utilised within many aspects of clinical practice, as such the demand placed on echocardiography services is ever increasing. In an attempt to provide incremental value for patients and standardise patient care, the British Society of Echocardiography in collaboration with the British Heart Valve Society have devised updated guidance for the indications and triaging of adult TTE requests for TTE services to implement into clinical practice.
From Ramos to Rameau
Authors: Cohen David E.
Published: July 2022

This article explores the advent of two foundational characteristics of the modern concept of harmony inaugurated by Rameau's Traité de l'harmonie (1722): first, that its principal objects are sonorities of three or more distinct pitch classes, that is, consonant and dissonant chords; and second, that these chords “move” from one to the next in ways determined by certain inherent relations among them, in a process in which dissonances, as well as consonances, play a significant if not crucial role. This article shows that the ancestors of these two fundamental properties of harmony, newly understood as a specifically polyphonic phenomenon, first emerged into theoretical discourse in polemical writings of the Northern Italian theorists Nicolò Burzio (1487), Giovanni Spataro (1491), and Franchino Gaffurio (1496, 1518), sparked by the inflammatory views of Bartolomeo Ramos de Pareia (1482). Moreover, while these ideas about harmony come to cohabit in Gioseffo Zarlino's Istitutioni harmoniche (1558), they were initially proposed not as complementary but as explicitly competing new conceptions of the nature of harmony, advanced to support their authors' polemical positions and attacks on each other.
How the Triad Took (a) Root
Authors: Mutch Caleb
Published: July 2022

This article illuminates the modern concept of the triadic root by analyzing that concept and explaining how the English-speaking world came to refer to it with the term root. To do so, it begins by identifying five subconcepts on which theorists have drawn when explaining and applying the root concept in their treatises. The article then addresses the origin of the term root in English-language theory, noting that the term first emerged only in 1806, far later than its modern-day ubiquity would suggest. This late emergence is explained as a side effect of the idiosyncratic state of triadic theorizing in eighteenth-century Britain. The author advances a new interpretation that, as a result of the overtone-based preoccupations of erudite authors and the particular emphases of thoroughbass teachers, British theorists did not use a fully realized triadic theory until much later than has been supposed. The conclusion of the article traces the process by which the term root gained ascendancy in English texts and considers how this history fits into larger trends of thoroughbass and harmony instruction.
Fuzzy Family Ties
Authors: Wallentinsen Kristen
Published: July 2022

Melodic contour is one of a melody's defining characteristics. Music theorists such as Michael Friedmann, Robert Morris, Elizabeth West Marvin and Paul Laprade, and Ian Quinn have developed models for evaluating similarities between contours, but only a few compare similarities between pairs of contours with different lengths, and fewer still can measure shared characteristics among an entire family of contours. This article introduces a new method for evaluating familial similarities between related contours, even if the contours have different cardinalities. The model extends theories of contour transformation by using fuzzy set theory and probability, measuring a contour's degree of familial membership by examining the contour's transformational pathway and calculating the probability that each move in the pathway is shared by other family members. Through the potential of differing alignments along these pathways, the model allows for the possibility that pathways may be omitted or inserted within a contour that exhibits familial resemblance, despite its different cardinality. The analytical utility of the model is then demonstrated through an analysis of melodic possibility in phased portions of Steve Reich's The Desert Music. Integrating variable cardinality into contour similarity relations in this way more adequately accounts for familial relationships between contours and can provide new and valuable insights into one of music's most fundamental elements.
Intracranial Pressure Monitoring in Patients With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Extension of the Recommendations and the Effect on Outcome by Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Castaño-Leon Ana M. , Gomez Pedro A. , Jimenez-Roldan Luís , Paredes Igor , Munarriz Pablo M. , Perez Irene Panero , Eiriz Fernandez Carla , García-Pérez Daniel , Moreno Gomez Luis Miguel , Sinovas Olga Esteban , Posadas Guillermo Garcia , Lagares Alfonso
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring is recommended for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) with a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) <9 on admission and revealing space-occupying lesions or swelling on computed tomography. However, previous studies that have evaluated its effect on outcome have shown conflicting results.

OBJECTIVE:

To study the effect of ICP monitoring on outcome after adjustment of patient's characteristics imbalance and determine the potential benefit on patients with higher GCS that deteriorates early or in the absence of computed tomography results suggesting high ICP.

METHODS:

We searched for adult patients with TBI admitted between 1996 and 2020 with a GCS <9 on admission or deterioration from higher scores within 24 hours after TBI. Patients were divided into groups if they fulfilled strict (Brain Trauma Foundation guidelines) or extended criteria (patients who worsened after admission or without space-occupying lesions) for ICP monitoring. Propensity score analyses based on nearest neighbor matching was performed.

RESULTS:

After matching, we analyzed data from 454 patients and 184 patients who fulfilled strict criteria or extended criteria for ICP monitoring, respectively. A decreased on in-hospital mortality was detected in monitored patients following strict and extended criteria. Those patients with a higher baseline risk of poor outcome showed higher odds of favorable outcome if they were monitored.

CONCLUSION:

ICP monitoring in patients with severe TBI within 24 hours after injury following strict and extended criteria was associated with a decreased in-hospital mortality. The identification of patients with a higher risk of an unfavorable outcome might be useful to better select cases that would benefit more from ICP monitoring.
Predictors and Impact of Postoperative 30-Day Readmission in Glioblastoma
Authors: Botros David , Khalafallah Adham M. , Huq Sakibul , Dux Hayden , Oliveira Leonardo A. P. , Pellegrino Richard , Jackson Christopher , Gallia Gary L. , Bettegowda Chetan , Lim Michael , Weingart Jon , Brem Henry , Mukherjee Debraj
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Postoperative 30-day readmissions have been shown to negatively affect survival and other important outcomes in patients with glioblastoma (GBM).

OBJECTIVE:

To further investigate patient readmission risk factors of primary and recurrent patients with GBM.

METHODS:

The authors retrospectively reviewed records of 418 adult patients undergoing 575 craniotomies for histologically confirmed GBM at an academic medical center. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and clinical characteristics were collected and compared by patient readmission status using chi-square and Mann–Whitney U testing. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors that predicted 30-day readmissions.

RESULTS:

The cohort included 69 (12%) 30-day readmissions after 575 operations. Readmitted patients experienced significantly lower median overall survival (11.3 vs 16.4 months, P = .014), had a lower mean Karnofsky Performance Scale score (66.9 vs 74.2, P = .005), and had a longer initial length of stay (6.1 vs 5.3 days, P = .007) relative to their nonreadmitted counterparts. Readmitted patients experienced more postoperative deep vein thromboses or pulmonary embolisms (12% vs 4%, P = .006), new motor deficits (29% vs 14%, P = .002), and nonhome discharges (39% vs 22%, P = .005) relative to their nonreadmitted counterparts. Multivariable analysis demonstrated increased odds of 30-day readmission with each 10-point decrease in Karnofsky Performance Scale score (odds ratio [OR] 1.32, P = .002), each single-point increase in 5-factor modified frailty index (OR 1.51, P = .016), and initial presentation with cognitive deficits (OR 2.11, P = .013).

CONCLUSION:

Preoperatively available clinical characteristics strongly predicted 30-day readmissions in patients undergoing surgery for GBM. Opportunities may exist to optimize preoperative and postoperative management of at-risk patients with GBM, with downstream improvements in clinical outcomes.
Mapping and Monitoring of the Corticospinal Tract by Direct Brainstem Stimulation
Authors: Yang Yang , Neidert Marian C. , Velz Julia , Kälin Vincens , Sarnthein Johannes , Regli Luca , Bozinov Oliver
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Direct stimulation and diffusion tensor imaging/tractography are established techniques that assist in complex surgery for lesions in the eloquent area of the central nervous system.

OBJECTIVE:

To continuously map the corticospinal tract (CST) by direct stimulation during brainstem surgery and to explore the association between direct brainstem stimulation and the shortest distance from the stimulation point to the CST (DS-to-T).

METHODS:

We prospectively enrolled 30 consecutive patients for microsurgical resection of lesions within or in proximity to the brainstem between January 2019 and August 2021. Direct stimulation with initially 2 mA was performed for mapping and monitoring the motor fiber tracts. To evaluate CST status and measure DS-to-T, postoperative diffusion tensor imaging/tractography was used. Preoperative and postoperative modified Ranking Scale and motor function were evaluated to assess the clinical outcome.

RESULTS:

Intraoperative direct brainstem stimulation was successfully performed in all patients with a total of 909 stimulation points. One patient experienced a temporary neurological deficit postoperatively. Mapping of the CST was achieved in 5 patients. DS-to-T was ≤4 mm when motor-evoked potential responses were positive under 2 mA stimulation and ≤2 mm under 1 mA. Overall sensitivity and specificity for this association were 84.7% and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

This study further supports the paradigm for continuous CST monitoring and mapping through direct brainstem stimulation. The relationship between stimulation intensity and DS-to-T in brainstem surgery could help surgeon's better estimate the safe edge intraoperatively.
Intracranial Aneurysms in Loeys–Dietz Syndrome: A Multicenter Propensity-Matched Analysis
Authors: Perez-Vega Carlos , Domingo Ricardo A. , Tripathi Shashwat , Ramos-Fresnedo Andres , Martínez Santos Jaime L. , Rahme Rudy J. , Freeman William D. , Sandhu Sukhwinder S. , Miller David A. , Bendok Bernard R. , Brinjikji Waleed , Quinones-Hinojosa Alfredo , Meyer Fredric B. , Tawk Rabih G. , Fox W. Christopher
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Loeys–Dietz syndrome (LDS) is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder characterized by a classic triad of hypertelorism, bifid uvula and/or cleft palate, and generalized arterial tortuosity. There are limited data on the prevalence and rupture risk of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) in the setting of LDS, with no established guidelines.

OBJECTIVE:

To analyze the prevalence and rupture risk of IA in LDS.

METHODS:

Electronic medical records of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of LDS and available cerebrovascular imaging were reviewed. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the presence of IA. Unmatched and propensity-matched analyses were used to identify potential risk factors for aneurysm formation.

RESULTS:

Records of 1111 patients were screened yielding a total of 60 patients with a diagnosis of LDS. Eighteen (30%) patients had IA, 4 (22.2%) of whom had multiple aneurysms for a total of 24 IAs. Twenty-three (95.8%) aneurysms were located in the anterior circulation; none of them were ruptured. On unmatched analysis, age (P = .015), smoking history (P = .034), hypertension (P = .035), and number of extracranial aneurysms (P < .001) were significantly higher in patients with IA. After matching for age, sex, race, stroke history, family history, and extracranial aneurysms, smoking history (P = .009) remained significant.

CONCLUSION:

Patients with LDS have an increased risk of IAs, especially with a history of smoking. The prevalence rate of IAs in our series was 30%. Screening imaging should be considered at diagnosis, and patients should be encouraged to abstain from smoking. Further studies are needed to elucidate the risk of IA rupture and treatment considerations in this unique population.
Έμφυλες ενδεχομενικότητες, έμφυλες διεκδικήσεις
Authors: Κελτσίδου Παρθενόπη
Published: July 2022

Η διατριβή αυτή φιλοδοξεί να συμβάλλει στην μελέτη και κατανόηση των έμφυλων ενδεχομενικοτήτων και των έμφυλων διεκδικήσεων, όπως αυτές αναδεικνύονται μέσα από την επιτελεστικότητα των σωμάτων, την γέννηση και την λειτουργία των συναισθημάτων, μέσα σε ένα κλίμα ρευστότητας σε ένα ορεινό χωριό της Ξάνθης. Αυτή η ρευστότητα εισάγει ζητήματα και ερωτήματα σχετικά με την διαπραγμάτευση του συλλογικού Εαυτού των Λυγαριωτών. Είναι μία η εκδοχή του Εαυτού ή πολλές; Ο συλλογικός Εαυτός είναι ένας, ακλόνητος και σταθερός ή επισφαλής και ενδεχόμενος; Από ποιους παράγοντες συγκροτείται και σε ποιο πολιτισμικό πλαίσιο αναπαράγεται και ελέγχεται; Σε ποιο βαθμό συμβάλλουν οι άνδρες και σε ποιο οι γυναίκες; Ποια είναι τα συναισθήματα των κοινωνικών υποκειμένων εξαιτίας όλων αυτών των διαδικασιών; Επιτελείται και πώς η έμφυλη συγκρότηση του Εαυτού; Συντηρείται η κοινωνική μνήμη; Διατηρείται η παράδοση; Τελικά είναι η κοινωνία της Λυγαριάς επισφαλής;
Κοντσέρτα για βιολοντσέλο των Ελλήνων συνθετών Δημήτρη Θέμελη και Ντίνου Κωνσταντινίδη
Authors: Παπανικολάου Βασιλική
Published: July 2022

Στην παρούσα Διατριβή, αναλύονται τα κοντσέρτα για βιολοντσέλο των Ελλήνων συνθετών Δημήτρη Θέμελη και Ντίνου Κωνσταντινίδη, καθώς και τα ζητήματα δεξιοτεχνίας και μουσικού ύφους των έργων αυτών. Μεταξύ άλλων ζητημάτων στα συγκεκριμένα έργα της Διατριβής, γίνεται έρευνα για την ύπαρξη ελληνικών μουσικών στοιχείων.Η εξέλιξη του βιολοντσέλου ως όργανο στον 19ο και 20ο αιώνα και οι αλλαγές που προέκυψαν διεθνώς στον τρόπο σύνθεσης στον 20ο και 21ο αιώνα, είχαν ως αποτέλεσμα μία ποικιλία συνθέσεων για το συγκεκριμένο όργανο. Ο συνδυασμός των δύο αυτών παραγόντων, οδήγησε αφενός μεν τους συνθέτες να συνθέσουν έργα για βιολοντσέλο, αφετέρου δε, το κοντσέρτο ως μορφή σύνθεσης να γνωρίσει μεγάλη εξέλιξη και οι βιολοντσελίστες να ανακαλύψουν νέες δυνατότητες του οργάνου ως προς την δεξιοτεχνία, την τονικότητα, το ύφος και την ερμηνεία. Το αποτέλεσμα ήταν να αναδειχθούν εξέχοντες βιολοντσελίστες.
The Socializing Function of the University As a Condition for the Professional and Personal Formation of Graduates
Authors: Lebedeva I.
Published: July 2022

The period of study of students at the university should be considered as a special one that determines the subsequent line of life, since each person becomes the subject of his life path. From the choice of an educational institution to the final result, enough time passes in order, along with the main educational function, to form the necessary professional and social skills in students through a set of organizational measures.
The Mechanism for Managing Risks and Crises of Business Ecosystems: Goals, Objectives, Principles of Operation and Identification of Risks
Authors: Kalenov Oleg , Dyevyatkin Olyeg
Published: July 2022

The paper discusses the nature of the occurrence of risks and defines a list of the main issues of organizing a risk management system for business ecosystems. The authors consider the features of ecosystem risk management, highlighting a number of significant differences from the traditional organization. A description of the place of risk management in the ecosystem is also given, and a description of the basic principles in the field of risk management is given. When defining risk management processes and procedures, the authors substantiate the particular importance of monitoring, which should provide feedback to all processes. In addition, a model of the initial stages of an integrated risk management system is proposed, in which a separate place is given to the process of risk identification. The article presents the author's classification of the risks of the digital ecosystem, and also proposes an approach for compiling a risk register. In conclusion, the importance of the risk management process is emphasized in terms of the functioning, harmonious development and counteraction to crises of the digital ecosystem.
The Circlet Inequalities: A New, Circulant-Based, Facet-Defining Inequality for the TSP
Authors: Gutekunst Samuel C. , Williamson David P.
Published: July 2022

Facet-defining inequalities of the symmetric traveling salesman problem (TSP) polytope play a prominent role in both polyhedral TSP research and state-of-the-art TSP solvers. In this paper, we introduce a new class of facet-defining inequalities, the circlet inequalities. These inequalities were first conjectured in Gutekunst and Williamson [Gutekunst SC, Williamson DP (2019) Characterizing the integrality gap of the subtour LP for the circulant traveling salesman problem. SIAM J. Discrete Math. 33(4):2452–2478] when studying the circulant TSP, and they provide a bridge between polyhedral TSP research and number-theoretic investigations of Hamiltonian cycles stemming from a conjecture from Marco Buratti in 2007. The circlet inequalities exhibit circulant symmetry by placing the same weight on all edges of a given length; our main proof exploits this symmetry to prove the validity of the circlet inequalities. We then show that the circlet inequalities are facet-defining and compute their strength following Goemans [Goemans MX (1995) Worst-case comparison of valid inequalities for the TSP. Math. Programming 69:335–349]; they achieve the same worst case strength as the similarly circulant crown inequalities of Naddef and Rinaldi [Naddef D, Rinaldi G (1992) The crown inequalities for the symmetric traveling salesman polytope. Math. Oper. Res. 17(2):308–326] but are generally stronger.

Funding: This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program [Grant DGE-1650441] and by the National Science Foundation Division of Computing and Communications Foundations [Grant CCF-1908517].
A Classification of Carbon Abatement Opportunities of Global Firms
Authors: Blanco Christian C.
Published: July 2022

Problem definition: Carbon abatement opportunities are diverse, making it difficult to classify them. Do latent classes of carbon abatement opportunities exist and is there a type that is financially and environmentally superior? Methodology/results: In this study, we classify 16,525 implemented carbon abatement projects using text analysis. We benchmark our clustering method to the latent Dirichlet allocation model and verify our classifications using a crowd-sourcing platform. We then compare the payback period, financial hurdle (measured in upfront cost), savings, and carbon emissions reduction by type. Our results show that latent classes exist, and they statistically differ in the metrics we examine. Our regression results show that the type of project explains more of the variation in the financial and environmental outcomes than the firm-level financial controls we included. We find that liquidity (measured using cash-to-asset and current ratios) is associated with the number of reported projects, but the magnitude and direction varies by type. Our extension shows that marginal abatement costs statistically differ by type with a few exceptions. Lastly, we show that our classification is robust to sector-level variation. Managerial implications: Although the results show that no single type of opportunity dominates in all four metrics, our classification provides a ranking of the types firms should pursue depending on their goals. Our results suggest that firms likely place different weights across these four metrics. This means that policies targeted at making investment costs more attractive (e.g., subsidies or better financing) may not have the same impact on firms that put more weight on savings compared with those more sensitive to costs. A classification of opportunities can contribute toward understanding whether a unifying theory or pattern across carbon abatement activities may exist or not.
Audit to strategy: development of a national children and young people lymphoedema service
Authors: Pike Cheryl , Thomas Melanie J. , Noble-Jones Rhian , Coveney Elizabeth , Hocking Karl
Published: July 2022

Lymphoedema in children and young people (CYP) can cause significant impact affecting physical, psychological and social wellbeing. This audit of 286 CYP with Lymphoedema (2015–2018) is the first national cohort reported and provides new information on patient reported outcome (PROM) changes over time. Conservative therapy produced statistically significant change in outcome measures relating to swelling, infection, appearance and compression garments. Almost half of the children had primary lymphoedema of varying types. An overall prevalence of 31 per 100 000 CYP with lymphoedema was found among a population aged 0–25 over a 3-year period. This finding suggests a higher occurrence of lymphoedema in children and young people than previously reported and is important for service planning and health professionals' education.
Hepatitis: Increase in paediatric cases still under investigation
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: July 2022

As the sudden increase in cases of hepatitis in young children worldwide still remains unexplained, Dorothy Lepkowska discusses some of the research.
Parents' lived experience of health care for children with long-term conditions
Authors: Devoy Emily , Swann Jennifer , Thompson Joanne
Published: July 2022

Background:

Young people in the UK with a long-term condition experience a poorer quality of life than those in most comparable countries.

Aims:

To gain an understanding of parents' experiences of and contribution to health care for children with Long-term conditions.

Methods:

This qualitative study includes 15 semi-structured interviews with parents of children with Long-term conditions. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Framework analysis.

Findings:

The analysis generated a meta theme ‘complexity of experience’ and five key themes: Impact, Interactions, Experience of Care, Feelings, Feedback. Parents have a substantial role in coordinating and communicating between health-care teams. Consultations can be like an iceberg where attending the appointment is visible, but the constant and complex demands of the illness, the child, and the family remain hidden.

Conclusions:

Clinicians have a major role in signposting parents to different avenues of support. The impact of appointments on families can be reduced by increasing the use of virtual consultation.
Parasite control and Saint Swithin's Day
Authors: Forbes Andrew
Published: July 2022

Mid-summer provides a useful check point for assessing the dynamics of parasite populations, their potential impact and the need for control measures. In young cattle, measuring growth rates and faecal egg counts at this time can provide valuable prognostic information on the likely effects of parasitic gastroenteritis over the second half of the grazing season. Faecal sampling can also be used to monitor fluke infections, but may be of less value in assessing the risk of lungworm. Local weather patterns leading up to and including mid-summer can be used in conjunction with sampling and management data to generate an overall picture of the epidemiology and risk of the various protozoal, helminth and arthropod parasites that can affect cattle at grass; these in turn can be used to guide pasture management and treatment options appropriate to individual farms and farmers.
Sepsis in adult cattle
Authors: Adams James
Published: July 2022

Sepsis is caused by an overwhelming inflammatory response to a pathogen, often bacteria, that leads to shock and then death if left untreated. Cattle on high energy diets appear to be predisposed as the majority of infections stem from the gastrointestinal tract. It has not been established why some animals become septic and others do not although tolerance occurs if a cow is exposed to endotoxin in sublethal doses, either repeatedly or continuously, for a period of time. There is no defined framework to use out in the field when trying to diagnose the disease, with repeated clinical assessments often needed to detect deterioration of a case and ensure medical interventions are timely. The aims of treatment are to restore the circulatory volume, remove the infection and to dampen down the inflammatory response.
Cattle Review
Authors: Barrett David C
Published: July 2022

Introduction: In this Cattle Review we consider papers on the effect of lameness on bull fertility, the role of farm management practices on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the use of motivational interviewing (MI) in communication with farmers.
GC/MS Based Metabolite Profiling and Biological Activity of Leaves and Flower Heads of Tanacetum Cinerariifolium (Trevir.) Sch.Bip.
Authors:   Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria, Nikolova Milena , Ilinkin Vladimir ,   Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria, Yankova-Tsvetkova Elina ,   Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria, Stanilova Marina ,   Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria, Berkov Strahil ,   Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
Published: July 2022

Abstract Flower heads and leaves of Tanacetum cinerariifolium (Trevir.) Sch. Bip. were examined separately for bioactive compounds and biological activity. The compounds were identified by GC/MS analysis. Studied extracts were evaluated for free radical scavenging activity, and for inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and seed germination. Free phenolic acids and flavonoid aglycones were found in larger quantities in the leaves than in the flower heads, where sterols, fatty acids, pyrethrins, sugars, sugar derivatives and bound phenolic acids predominated. Significant antiradical activity (IC50 /mL) and low acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity (IC50 >1 mg/mL) was found. Moderate inhibitory activity against germination and root elongation of Lolium perenne L. seeds was determined. The study presents for the first time detailed data on the content of phenolic acids in free, esterified and insoluble-bound forms in this species. Some of the identified flavonoids from the leaf extract are reported for the first time in the species. Keywords: GC/MS, Flavonoids, Phenolic acids, Asteraceae (Composite)
Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and ADMET Study of N1-Hydrogen and N1-Benzoyl Pyrazoline as Antibacterial Agents
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Health Polytechnic of Kupang, Kupang 85111, Indonesia, Tjitda Putra Jiwamurwa Pama , Jumina Jumina ,   Department of Pharmacy, Health Polytechnic of Kupang, Kupang 85111, Indonesia, Wahyuningsih Tutik Dwi ,   Department Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
Published: July 2022

Abstract Syntheses of N1-hydrogen and N1-benzoyl pyrazoline derivatives and their antibacterial in vitro and in silico assays have been carried out. N1-Hydrogen pyrazoline derivatives were synthesized by cyclization of 2’-hydroxy chalcone, and the subsequent substitution reaction produced N1-benzoyl pyrazoline derivatives. The in vitro antibacterial assay was carried out by disc diffusion method. In silico evaluation was performed via molecular docking against ecKAS III enzyme (ID PDB: 1hnj) and ADMET prediction was carried out using pkCSM tool. The synthesis results showed that N1-hydrogen and N1-benzoyl pyrazoline derivatives were yielded in 50-83%. Antibacterial test results indicated that the presence of N1-benzoyl substituent decreased the antibacterial activity and was only active on Gram-positive bacteria. In comparison, the N1-hydrogen pyrazolines exhibited good antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and negative bacteria. The ADMET result confirms that compound 2 has the potential to be evolved as a drug in the future. Keywords: Pyrazoline, Antibacterial, Molecular Docking, ADMET