bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine on Arbitrary Objects
Authors: Urquhart Alasdair
Published: November 2020

This chapter surveys Kit Fine’s theory of arbitrary objects. It includes a historical survey of earlier writers on arbitrary objects, including Newton, Euler, and Czuber. Then it looks at objections to these entities, concluding with a sketch of the construction of models containing arbitrary objects.
The Problem of de re Modality
Authors: Hale Bob
Published: November 2020

The problem of de re modality is how, if at all, one can make sense of it. Most who have discussed this problem have assumed that modality de dicto is relatively unproblematic. It is, rather, the interpretation of sentences involving, within the scope of modal operators, singular terms or free variables which is thought to give rise to grave—and in the view of some, insuperable—difficulties. Quine has two arguments against the intelligibility of de re modality: a “logical” and a “metaphysical” one. That the “logical” argument is central to Quine’s attack is surely indisputable. But my claim that it is his basic argument is, in effect, denied by Kit Fine. I can (and do) agree with Fine that there are some significant differences between the two arguments. The most important question, for my purposes, is whether he is right to claim that the two arguments have force independently of one another.
Can Metaphysical Modality Be Based on Essence?
Authors: Mackie Penelope
Published: November 2020

In his hugely influential paper “Essence and Modality” (1994), Kit Fine argued that the then orthodox view that essence can be understood in terms of metaphysical modality is fundamentally flawed. He proposed, in its place, the view that all metaphysical modality has its source in the essences or natures of things, where the notion of a thing’s essence or nature can be understood in terms of a broadly Aristotelian notion of real definition. This theory appears to require that the relevant conception of real definition can itself be isolated without appeal to metaphysical modality. I argue that this requirement cannot be met. I then briefly consider the implications of my argument for the relation between essence and metaphysical modality.
Essence and Dependence
Authors: Wilson Jessica
Published: November 2020

I argue that Kit Fine’s essence-based account of ontological dependence is subject to various counterexamples. I first discuss Fine’s distinctive “schema-based” approach to metaphysical theorizing, which aims to identify general principles accommodating any intelligible application of the metaphysical notion(s) at issue. I then raise concerns about the general principles Fine takes to schematically characterize the notions of essence and dependence, which principles enter into his account of ontological dependence. The problem, roughly speaking, is that Fine supposes that an object’s essence makes reference just to what it ontologically depends on, but various cases suggest that an object’s essence can also make reference to what ontologically depends on it. As such, Fine’s essence-based account of ontological dependence is subject to the same objection he raises against modal accounts of essence and dependence—that is, of being insufficiently ecumenical.
Fine’s Theorem on First-Order Complete Modal Logics
Authors: Goldblatt Robert
Published: November 2020

Fine’s influential Canonicity Theorem states that if a modal logic is determined by a first-order definable class of Kripke frames, then it is valid in its canonical frames. This article reviews the background and context of this result, and the history of its impact on further research. It then develops a new characterization of when a logic is canonically valid, providing a precise point of distinction with the property of first-order completeness. The ultimate point is that the construction of the canonical frame of a modal algebra does not commute with the ultrapower construction.
Comment’s on Philip Percival’s “Beyond Reality?”
Authors: Fine Kit
Published: November 2020

Percival is interested in what Kierland and Monton (2007: 487) call the “Reality Principle”:

(RP)  Reality consists, and only consists, in things and how things are.

He is interested in two different ways in which the all-encompassing conception of reality suggested by this principle may be challenged. We may, on the one hand, wish to restrict reality to only some of the things or to only some of the ways in which things are. This is how my reality predicate from QO and my reality operator from QR work; they effect a division within things or within how things are. We may, on the other hand, wish to allow for something beyond the things or how things are and hence beyond reality itself if reality only consists in things and how things are. Percival considers a number of different ways in which each of these two restrictive conceptions of reality might play out and he considers a striking application of the second conception to the case of time: for under a certain restrictive version of presentism, one may wish to claim both that reality consists in present things or how things presently are and that the past is somehow beyond reality as so conceived....
Comments on Alasdair Urquhart’s “Fine on Arbitrary Objects”
Authors: Fine Kit
Published: November 2020

Alasdair Urquhart’s chapter is a wonderful mix of observations on the theory of arbitrary objects, ranging over a number of historical, logical, and philosophical aspects of the theory. I was especially interested in what he had to say about the evolving conception of variables in the history of mathematics and, in the light of my own previous somewhat casual remarks on the topic, I would now like to follow up on his discussion....
Critical issues facing the animal and food industry: a Delphi analysis
Authors: Lamm Kevan W , Randall Nekeisha L , Fluharty Francis L
Published: November 2020

By the year 2050, the world's population is estimated to increase by approximately 2.1 billion people. For the sake of food security and safety, it is vital for the animal and food industry to act now in preparation for future consumption needs. The study at hand explored the most critical issues facing the field, according to industry experts. Using Delphi and constant comparative methods, seven thematic categories emerged that serve as overarching areas for attention: Industry Image and Relationship with the Public, Workforce Development and Pipeline, Economic and Environmental Sustainability, Animal and Human Health/Well-Being, Production and Distribution Efficiency, Government Regulations and Relationship with Legislative Leaders, and Relationship with Higher Education/Researchers. Findings and recommendations on how the industry can move forward in light of future challenges and opportunities are explored.
Mobile digital x-ray and portable cartridge based nucleic acid amplification test machines for point-of-care diagnosis of TB in rural India
Authors: Datta Bornali , Ford David , Goyal Pinky , Prakash Ashish , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Gnanashanmugam Devasena , Mishra Sunil , Aggarwal Ankit , Kotalwar Sameer Gopalrao , Mittal Sandeep , Mangla Anshul , Jaiswal Anand , Trehan Naresh
Published: November 2020

Background

There is no experience of point-of-care (POC) microbiological confirmation for TB in India in field settings.

Methods

Under the TB-Free Haryana project, a mobile van-mounted digital x-ray and portable GeneXpert system screened all presumptive TB patients with strong clinic-radiological suspicion for TB.

Results

Of 1673 x-rays, 215 (13%) had findings suggestive of TB, 109 had strong clinical suspicion and were eligible for POC GeneXpert, in whom a test was performed in 82 (75%) cases; 59 (72%) tested positive and were initiated on treatment within 24 h.

Conclusions

A mobile van equipped with digital x-ray and POC GeneXpert is feasible and has a good success rate with potential for replication.
Neglected tropical disease control in a world with COVID-19: an opportunity and a necessity for innovation
Authors: Brooker Simon J , Ziumbe Kundai , Negussu Nebiyu , Crowley Siobhan , Hammami Mona
Published: November 2020

Countries have seen substantial disruptions to usual health services related to coronavirus disease 2019 and these are likely to have immediate and long-term indirect effects on many disease control programmes, including neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The pandemic has highlighted the usefulness of mathematical modelling to understand the impacts of these disruptions and future control measures on progress towards 2030 NTD goals. The pandemic also provides an opportunity, and a practical necessity, to transform NTD programmes through innovation.
Effect of Rainfall and Temperature on Perithecium Production ofBotryosphaeria dothideaon Cankered Apple Branches
Authors: Xue De-sheng , Liu Jing , Li Bao-hua , Xu Xiang-ming , Liu Na , Lian Sen , Dong Xiang-li , Wang Cai-xia
Published: November 2020

Botryosphaeria dothidea is a fungal pathogen causing canker, dieback, and fruit rot of apple trees worldwide. Ascospores are an important source of inoculum of Botryosphaeria canker in China. Experiments were conducted under both controlled and natural conditions to study perithecium formation in relation to environmental conditions. Perithecia of B. dothidea were detected on cankered lesions throughout the apple growing season except in July and in some years including August under natural conditions. On newly formed canker lesions, the first perithecium was detected as early as August, about 1 week after rainfall. Perithecia matured successively, lasting from early August to June of the next year, with a peak in late September or early October. Temperature and rainfall are two key environmental factors affecting perithecium formation. Under controlled conditions, perithecia were produced only on cankered shoots incubated at test temperatures of 20 and 25°C and wetted by >3 days of simulated rainfall per week. The number of perithecia produced on canker lesions increased with the increase in rainfall duration. Perithecia were formed on canker shoots exposed to rainfall only in June, July, and August but not in September. Rainfall of >3 days per week can be used to predict the initial formation of perithecia in the main apple production areas in China to assist disease management.
Cardiac arrest in adult intensive care units in the Medellin metropolitan area, Colombia: observational study
Authors: Villa-Velásquez Juan Carlos , Hoyos-Vanegas Natalia Andrea , Gómez-Echeverry Juan Carlos , Payares-Benítez Airton , Casas-Arroyave Fabián David
Published: November 2020

Introduction: In-hospital cardiac arrest (CA) is a rare but lifethreatening event. However, the epidemiology of this event in intensive care units (ICU) is not clear.

Objective: To determine the clinical characteristics of CA in adult patients hospitalized in several ICU of the Metropolitan Area of the Aburrá Valley, Colombia, over a period of 1 year.

Methods: Observational study for a limited period of 1 year for adult patients with CA in the ICU of the hospitals of the Metropolitan Area of the Aburrá Valley, Colombia: San Vicente Foundation University Hospital, IPS University, and Manuel Uribe Ángel Hospital.

Results: Of 3710 eligible patientswhowere treated in 91 beds, 646 CA events occurred during this period, of which 151 were candidates for resuscitation maneuvers. The overall incidence of CA in the ICU was 17.1%, without differences between the 3 hospitals included and the incidence of resuscitable CA was 39.9 cases per 1000 admissions to the ICU. The most common CA rhythm was asystole (54.3%) and the overall survival at hospital discharge was 3.3%.

Conclusion: In the analyzed ICU, CA was an infrequent event, but it presents a high mortality at discharge from the ICU and hospital. However, the few patients who survive have a good neurological prognosis.
Anesthesia assessment in the era of competences: state of the art
Authors: Jaramillo-Rincón Sandra Ximena , Durante Eduardo , Ladenheim Roberta , Díaz-Cortés Juan Carlos
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Anesthesiology requires procedure fulfillment, problem, and real-time crisis resolution, problem, and complications forecast, among others; therefore, the evaluation of its learning should center around how students achieve competence rather than solely focusing on knowledge acquisition. Literature  shows that despite the existence of numerous evaluation strategies, these are still underrated in most cases due to unawareness.

Objective: The present article aims to explain the process of competency-based anesthesiology assessment, in addition to suggesting a brief description of the learning domains evaluated, theories of knowledge, instruments, and assessment systems in the area; and finally, to show some of the most relevant results regarding assessment systems in Colombia.

Methodology: The results obtained in “Characteristics of the evaluation systems used by anesthesiology residency programs stakeholders in the educational process, a fact that motivated the publishing of this discussion around the topic of competency-based assessment in anesthesiology. Following a bibliography search with the keywords through PubMed, OVID, ERIC, DIALNET, and REDALYC, 110 articles were reviewed and 75 were established as relevant for the research’s theoretical  framework.

Results and conclusion: Anesthesiology assessment should be conceived from the competency’s multidimensionality; it must be longitudinal and focused on the learning objectives.
Continuous erector spinae plane block for pain management in laparoscopic liver resection: case report
Authors: Piangatelli Cristiano , Dalla Bona Enrico , Tavoletti Diego , Rosanò Elisabetta , Mocchegiani Federico , Vivarelli Marco , Cerutti Elisabetta
Published: November 2020

Pain after liver resection can be difficult to manage. Epidural anesthesia (EA) isaneffective technique inpain control inthis surgery.

However, postoperative coagulopathy and hypotension due to autonomic nervous system block in high-risk patients, may result that the EA is an inadequate analgesic technique in according to enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) recommendations for liver surgery.

Regional block techniques have been recommended for liver surgery in ERAS guidelines.

Erector spinae plane (ESP) block is a recent block described for thoracic and abdominal surgeries and provides both somatic and visceral analgesia.

We describe a high-risk patient with cardiac dysfunction and Parkinson’s disease who underwent laparoscopic right liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Satisfactory intra and postoperative analgesia was achieved by a combined continuous ESP block, transversus abdominis plane (TAP), and oblique subcostal TAP blocks.

Surgery and postoperative period was uneventful. No opioids were administered during hospitalization.

A combined of thoracic and abdominal wall blocks can be an effective approach for intra and postoperative analgesia in highrisk patients undergoing laparoscopic liver resection.

Further clinical research is recommended to establish the effectiveness of the ESP block as an analgesic technique in this surgery.
Sustained Abdominal Exercises Affect Abdominal Muscle Activation and Maximal Expiratory Pressures Differently in Healthy Men and Women
Authors: Kasawara Karina Tamy , Delafontaine Arnaud , Tajali Shirin , Goligher Ewan , Brochard Laurent , Artico Romain , Reid W. Darlene
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

To compare the effects of sustained abdominal exercises—pelvic tilt and twist curl-up—on the magnitude of abdominal muscle activation and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) in healthy men and women. It was hypothesized that the activation would differ between men and women during these 3 exercise maneuvers.

Methods:

Using a cross-sectional design, 10 healthy men and 10 women sustained pelvic tilt and twist curl-up exercises until task failure. Baseline MEP was compared with MEP immediately after both exercises. The root mean square of the internal oblique, rectus abdominis, external oblique, and transverse abdominis were evaluated during pelvic tilt, twist curl-up, and MEP.

Results:

Pelvic tilt and twist curl-up were sustained for similar durations. Twist curl-up induced higher activations and more shifts to lower median frequency in all 4 abdominals compared with pelvic tilt. Although internal oblique activation was highest during MEP and lowest during pelvic tilt in women, these comparisons did not differ in men. Maximal expiratory pressure tended to decrease after sustained pelvic tilt in women but did not change in men.

Conclusions:

Twist curl-up activated abdominal muscles more so than pelvic tilt. Some sex differences were shown that should be considered in future research of abdominal muscle exercise prescription.
Invasive aortic pulse pressure is not superior to cuff pulse pressure in cardiovascular risk prediction
Authors: Laugesen Esben , Knudsen Søren T. , Hansen Klavs W. , Rossen Niklas B. , Jensen Lisette Okkels , Hansen Michael S. , Andersen Lone K. , Thomsen Kristian K. , Søndergaard Hanne , Böttcher Morten , Raungaard Bent , Olesen Kevin K.W. , Mæng Michael , Bøtker Hans Erik , Poulsen Per L.
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Aortic pulse pressure (PP) represents the hemodynamic cardiac and cerebral burden more directly than cuff PP. The objective of this study was to investigate whether invasively measured aortic PP confers additional prognostic value beyond cuff PP for cardiovascular events and death. With increasing age, cuff PP progressively underestimates aortic PP. Whether the prognostic association between cuff PP and outcomes is age-dependent remains to be elucidated.

Methods:

Cuff PP and invasively measured aortic PP were recorded in 21 908 patients (mean age 63 years, 58% men, 14% with diabetes) with stable angina pectoris undergoing elective coronary angiography during January 2001--December 2012. Multivariate Cox models were used to assess the association with incident myocardial infarction, stroke, and death. Discrimination was assessed using Harrell's C-index.

Results:

During a median follow-up period of 3.7 years (range 0.1–10.8 years), 422 strokes, 511 myocardial infarctions, and 1530 deaths occurred. Both cuff and aortic PP were associated with stroke, myocardial infarction, and death in crude analyses. However, only cuff PP remained associated with stroke (hazard ratio per 10 mmHg, 1.06 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01--1.12)] and myocardial infarction [hazard ratio per 10 mmHg 1.05 (95% CI 1.01--1.11)] in multivariate Cox models. Both cuff and aortic PP lost significance as predictors of death in multivariate models. Age did not modify the prognostic association between cuff PP and stroke, myocardial infarction, and death.

Conclusion:

Invasively measured aortic PP did not add prognostic information about cardiovascular outcomes and death beyond cuff PP in patients with stable angina pectoris.
Predictors for 30-Day Readmissions After Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Pollifrone Maria , Callender Librada , Bennett Monica , Driver Simon , Petrey Laura , Hamilton Rita , Dubiel Rosemary
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To examine predictors for 30-day readmission post-onset of traumatic brain injury (TBI) after initial trauma hospitalization.

Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Participants:

In total, 5284 patients with an acute TBI admitted from January 1, 2006, through December 31, 2015.

Methods:

Demographic and clinical data after initial TBI onset were extracted from the local trauma registry and matched with the Dallas-Fort Worth Hospital Council registry. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors significantly associated with 30-day readmission. Top diagnosis codes for 30-day readmission were also described.

Results:

Patients were primarily male (64.6%), non-Hispanic White (47.6%), uninsured (35.4%), and aged 46.1 ± 23.3 years. In total, 448 patients (8.5%) had a 30-day readmission. Median cumulative charges for each readmitted subject was $34 313. Factors significantly associated with 30-day readmission were falling as the cause of injury, having increased Charlson Comorbidity Index and Injury Severity Score, and discharging to a skilled nursing facility or long-term acute care. Being uninsured was associated with decreased odds of a 30-day readmission. Top diagnosis codes among the readmission visits included cardiac codes (57.7%), fluid and acid-base disorders (54.8%), and hypertension (50.1%).

Conclusion:

These data highlight those at risk for 30-day readmission across a diverse population of TBI at a large medical center. Interventions such as health literacy education or patient navigation may help mitigate 30-day readmission for at-risk patients.
Perceptual Cognitive Training Does Not Improve Clinical Outcomes at 4 and 12 Weeks Following Concussion in Children and Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Teel Elizabeth , Brossard-Racine Marie , Corbin-Berrigan Laurie-Ann , Gagnon Isabelle
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To determine whether a perceptual-cognitive training program using 3D-multiple object tracking (3D-MOT) can improve symptoms following acute pediatric concussion.

Setting:

Research laboratory within a pediatric trauma center.

Participants:

Children and adolescents (n = 62, age= 13.27 ± 2.50) with diagnosed concussion.

Design:

Randomized controlled trial. Children were randomized into either 3D-MOT, 2048 game, or standard care-only groups. Participants and parents completed the Post-Concussion Symptom Inventory (PCSI) at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks postinjury. Intervention participants completed either the 3D-MOT protocol or the 2048 game at 6 sessions between the baseline and 4-week assessment.

Main Measures:

A 3 (group) × 10 (time) mixed-model analysis of variance evaluated PCSI total scores. The rate of persistent postconcussive symptom (PPCS) was evaluated at 4 weeks using χ2 analysis.

Results:

Symptoms decreased throughout the study using both child-reported (F
(9,374) = 22.03, P < .001) and parent-reported scores (F
(9,370) = 28.06, P < .001). Twenty-four (44.4%) children met the study definition for PPCS using the child-reported PCSI, while 20 (37.7%) children had PPCS using parent reports. The intervention did not significantly affect symptom resolution or PPCS rates.

Conclusion:

There is no benefit to prescribing 3D-MOT training for acute rehabilitation in pediatric patients with concussion and clinicians should instead focus on more effective programs.
Intracranial Abnormalities Are Associated With Fewer Self-Reported Symptoms in Military Service Members Following Moderate-to-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Trotta Jenna K. , Ekanayake Vindhya , Ettenhofer Mark L. , Hungerford Lars D. , Lange Rael T. , Bailie Jason M. , Brickell Tracey A. , Kennedy Jan E. , French Louis M.
Published: November 2020

Objective:

This study examined the relationship between intracranial abnormalities (ICAs) and self-reported neurobehavioral and posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms in members of the military with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (msTBI).

Method:

Participants included 539 members of the US military with nonpenetrating msTBI. Self-reported neurobehavioral and PTS symptoms were assessed using the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory and the PTSD Checklist–Civilian Version. ICAs were categorized as present/absent (by subtype) based upon medical record review. Spearman rank-order correlations and stepwise multiple regression analyses examined univariate and combined predictive relationships between ICAs and self-reported symptoms.

Results:

The presence of any ICA was associated with reduced self-reported neurobehavioral and PTS symptoms. ICA-associated reductions were largest for PTS, followed by affective and cognitive neurobehavioral symptoms, and relatively weak for somatic/sensory and vestibular symptoms. Effects of different types of ICAs were comparable. Greater time since injury was related to greater symptom report, whereas duration of loss of consciousness and posttraumatic amnesia were not consistently related to self-reported symptoms.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that ICAs are associated with suppression of reported PTS and neurobehavioral symptoms—potentially via reduction in self-awareness. These findings support comprehensive, objective evaluation to identify impairments in self-awareness and functioning in msTBI patients.
Comparison of 1-Year Outcomes Between Small Incision Lenticule Extraction With Prophylactic Cross-Linking and Femtosecond Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis With Prophylactic Cross-Linking
Authors: Liu Chunlei , Wang Zheng , Wu De , Luo Tian , Su Yun , Mo Junbai , Fang Xuejun
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

To compare small incision lenticule extraction with prophylactic cross-linking (SMILE Xtra) and femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis with prophylactic cross-linking (FS-LASIK Xtra) in their safety, efficacy, predictability, and stability.

Methods:

This is a prospective cohort study. Forty-eight eyes subjected to SMILE Xtra and 90 eyes subjected to FS-LASIK Xtra were enrolled. The enrolled eyes exhibited either borderline corneal topography or high myopia with thin cornea. The following parameters were evaluated before surgery and at 1 day; 1 week; and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery: corrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected distance visual acuity, manifest refractive spherical equivalent (MRSE), keratometry values, and thinnest corneal thickness.

Results:

After 1 month, no eye showed loss of 1 or more lines of corrected distance visual acuity. At 12 months, uncorrected distance visual acuity was 20/20 or better for 98% and 99% eyes in the SMILE Xtra and FS-LASIK Xtra groups, respectively (P = 0.657). For 93.8% eyes in the SMILE Xtra group and 90% eyes in the FS-LASIK Xtra group, the achieved MRSE was within ±0.50 diopter of the intended MRSE (P = 0.669). The correlation coefficients for predictability of MRSE correction by SMILE Xtra and FS-LASIK Xtra were 0.987 and 0.983, respectively. The mean MRSE values, keratometry values, and thinnest corneal thickness measured at the different time points showed no significant intra- or intergroup differences.

Conclusions:

Our evaluations of 1-year outcomes suggest that the safety, efficacy, predictability, and stability of SMILE Xtra are comparable with those of FS-LASIK Xtra.
Cluster of Post-Operative Endophthalmitis Caused by Acanthamoeba T10 Genotype – A First Report
Authors: Rammohan Ram , Hajib Naraharirao Madhavan , Veerappan Saravanan , Vijayaraghavan Prabhu , Rajaraman Revathi , Manayath George J. , Dsouza Palmeera , Radhakrishnan Shanthi , Venkatapathy Narendran , Lakshmipathi Dhanurekha , Madhuravasal Krishnan Janani , Raghavan Anita
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

To report a cluster of postoperative Acanthamoeba endophthalmitis after routine cataract surgeries.

Methods:

A brief summary of sentinel events leading to the referral of 4 patients of postoperative endophthalmitis to our hospital is followed by clinical descriptions and the various diagnostic approaches and interventions used. Genotyping and phylogenetic analysis are also discussed.

Results:

Four cases of postoperative cluster endophthalmitis, presumed to be bacterial and treated as such, were referred to our hospital. The presence of an atypical ring infiltrate in the first case facilitated the diagnosis of Acanthamoeba endophthalmitis. All patients had vitritis, corneal involvement, and scleral inflammation. Multiple diagnostic methods, such as corneal scrapings, confocal microscopy, aqueous and vitreous taps, scleral abscess drainage, histopathological studies, polymerase chain reaction, and genotyping and phylogenetic analyses of isolated Acanthamoeba, were used to confirm the diagnosis of endophthalmitis and to establish the extent of ocular involvement. Various medical and therapeutic interventions used to control the infections were also documented. The isolated Acanthamoeba were confirmed as belonging to the T10 genotype, an environmentally and clinically rare variety.

Conclusions:

This is the first report of a cluster of postoperative T10 genotype Acanthamoeba endophthalmitis, occurring after routine cataract surgery in immunocompetent individuals. Contrary to current perceptions, a rapidly evolving infection can occur with Acanthamoeba.
Health Effects of Night and Irregular Shiftwork
Authors: Davis Mary E.
Published: November 2020

Objectives:

Evidence suggests that shiftwork results in adverse occupational health outcomes. This paper contributes to the literature by estimating the separate health effects of night and irregular shiftwork on a longitudinal panel of US workers.

Methods:

Data from a 20-year panel of worker surveys from the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth were used to predict self-reported health limitations related to night and irregular shiftwork using a series of random effects logit models.

Results:

Separate and combined specifications of shiftwork as night and irregular effort significantly increase the odds of health limitations compared with working a regular daytime schedule, with more pronounced effects for irregular work (odds ratio [OR] = 1.09 to 1.52) over night shift (OR = 1.03 to 1.14).

Conclusions:

The results suggest that both night and irregular shiftwork may have important negative implications on occupational health, with the deleterious effects particularly pronounced for irregularly scheduled work effort.
Machine Learning for Surgical Phase Recognition
Authors: Garrow Carly R. , Kowalewski Karl-Friedrich , Li Linhong , Wagner Martin , Schmidt Mona W. , Engelhardt Sandy , Hashimoto Daniel A. , Kenngott Hannes G. , Bodenstedt Sebastian , Speidel Stefanie , Müller-Stich Beat P. , Nickel Felix
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To provide an overview of ML models and data streams utilized for automated surgical phase recognition.

Background:

Phase recognition identifies different steps and phases of an operation. ML is an evolving technology that allows analysis and interpretation of huge data sets. Automation of phase recognition based on data inputs is essential for optimization of workflow, surgical training, intraoperative assistance, patient safety, and efficiency.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed according to the Cochrane recommendations and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. PubMed, Web of Science, IEEExplore, GoogleScholar, and CiteSeerX were searched. Literature describing phase recognition based on ML models and the capture of intraoperative signals during general surgery procedures was included.

Results:

A total of 2254 titles/abstracts were screened, and 35 full-texts were included. Most commonly used ML models were Hidden Markov Models and Artificial Neural Networks with a trend towards higher complexity over time. Most frequently used data types were feature learning from surgical videos and manual annotation of instrument use. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was used most commonly, often achieving accuracy rates over 90%, though there was no consistent standardization of defined phases.

Conclusions:

ML for surgical phase recognition can be performed with high accuracy, depending on the model, data type, and complexity of surgery. Different intraoperative data inputs such as video and instrument type can successfully be used. Most ML models still require significant amounts of manual expert annotations for training. The ML models may drive surgical workflow towards standardization, efficiency, and objectiveness to improve patient outcome in the future.

Registration PROSPERO:

CRD42018108907
Quality characteristics of ‘Kochujang’ made with
pigmented rice flour ‘Nuruk’ by various fungal strains during
aging
Authors: Lee Hee-Won , Han Hong-Bi , Kim Bok-seon , Kim Cheol-Min , Woo Hyo-Gyeong , Jeong Jae-Hee , Kim So-Mang , Huh Chang-Ki
Published: November 2020

In this study, pigmented rice flour ‘Nuruk’ was prepared using
various fungal strains to improve the quality of Korean traditional
‘Kochujang’, and the quality characteristics during the aging of
‘Kochujang’ made with the ‘Nuruk’ were confirmed.
The pH of ‘Nuruk’ was highest using Aspergillus
oryzae pigmented rice flour ‘Nuruk’ (N2) at 5.83, and
the highest acidity was Aspergillus niger pigmented rice flour
‘Nuruk’ (N3) at 2.69. The crude ash content was 1.10-1.14%
from the ‘Nuruk’ made with pigmented rice flour, which was higher
than the 0.42% from ‘Nuruk’ made with white rice flour. The
pH of ‘Kochujang’ decreased gradually from 0 to 90 days as aging
progressed. The titratable acidity was 2.76-3.71%, which increased with
increasing aging period. During the aging of ‘Kochujang’, the
water content increased by 2-3%. The reducing sugar content decreased
from 0.33 to 3.25% after 60 days of aging and increased to 3.85 to
4.94% at the end of aging. Regarding the color values, the
‘Kochujang’ made with white rice flour ‘Nuruk’
showed higher overall L, a, and b values than the ‘Kochujang’ made
with pigmented rice flour ‘Nuruk’. A sensory evaluation of six
kinds of ‘Kochujang’ revealed the ‘Kochujang’ made
with N2 ‘Nuruk’ to have the highest preference in all evaluation
items.
Quality characteristics of Platycodon grandiflorum
depending on steaming treatment
Authors: Kim Jung-Min , Youn Kwang-Sup
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to determine the quality characteristics of Platycodon
grandiflorum depending on the steaming method. Platycodon
grandiflorum was steamed at 95°C for 3 h, and autoclave
steamed for up to three times (AS1-3) at 121°C for 15 min. The L*
and b* color values were ​​tended to decrease between AS1 and AS3, whreas
the a* value tended to increase. The browning index increased with
steaming, and tended to increase rapidly after AS2. The total sugar and reducing
sugar contents were significantly higher after AS3. Crude saponin contents were
in the order of AS3 > AS2 > Steaming > AS1 >
Control, and were higher than that of the control in all steamed groups.
Platycodin complex content was the highest in the control, and was judged to be
decomposed by pressure and steaming treatment. Total polyphenol and flavonoid
contents were significantly higher after pressurized steaming than in the others
and tended to increase with repeated steaming. Pressurized steaming increased
the ability to scavenge DPPH and ABTS radicals and significantly increased after
AS2. Therefore, pressurized steaming can shorten the process time and improve
the antioxidant effects of Platycodon grandiflorum.
Isolation and identification of biogenic amine-degrading probiotic
lactic acid bacteria isolated from over-ripened kimchi
Authors: Lim Eun-Seo
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate biogenic amines (BA)-forming and -degrading
abilities of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts isolated from over-ripened
kimchi and to investigate probiotic characteristics of the BA-degrading and
-degrading microorganism. There were significantly more BA-forming LAB and
yeasts in over-ripened kimchi prepared with fish sauce or salted fish than
sun-dried salt. The BA-forming ability of the microorganisms was highly
strain-dependent. Among the isolated microorganisms, the BA degradation ability
was found in LAB including Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp.
mesenteroides CML01, Enterococcus faecium
KML12, Lactobacillus fermentum MML21, Lactobacillus
sakei MML23, Enterococcus faecalis MML26, and
Pediococcus pentosaceus SML34. However, all yeast tested
did not show the BA degradtion ability. In addition, L. sakei
MML23 and P. pentosaceus SML34 exhibited probiotic
characteristics including tolerance to gastric acid and bile salt, adhesion
capacity to intestinal epithelial cells, and antibiotic susceptibility.
Furthermore, the bacteriocin produced by L. sakei MML23 and
P. pentosaceus SML34 showed antibacterial activity against
E. faecium KML15, Saccharomyces cerevisiae
MMY28, and Lactobacillus brevis MML24. Consequently, the
bacteriocin produced by probiotic L. sakei MML23 and P.
pentosaceus SML34 seemed to be effective in reducing the risk of BA
toxicity by inhibiting the growth of histamine, cadaverine, and
putrescine-forming bacteria.
Plants from Ulleung island ameliorate lipid accumulation and
oxidative stress in oleic acid-induced in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Kim SukJin , Kim Gun-Hee
Published: November 2020

Oxidative stress can directly damage lipids, proteins, and DNA, which promotes
the progression from steatosis to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This study
aimed to determine the antioxidative effects of Campanula
takesimana Nakai, Ilex integra THUNB.,
Indigofera pseudotinctoria Matsum., Rubus
takesimensis Nakai, and Tsuga sieboldii from
Ulleung Island and their ability to inhibit lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells.
The total phenolics (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents of extracts of the five
plants were determined, and their antioxidative activities were analyzed using
DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging ability, Fe2+ reducing
capacity (FRAP), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and thiobarbituric
acid assays. Lipid accumulation was evaluated by Oil Red O staining and
intracellular triglyceride (TG) assays. Rubus takesimensis
Nakai had the highest TPC among the five plants. The antioxidant activity of
R. Nakai was DPPH (IC50=0.30 mg/mL), ABTS
(IC50=0.33 mg/mL), FRAP (318.61 μmol FeSO4/g),
and ORAC (1.74 μmol TE/g). The lipid peroxidation inhibitory effect of
R. Nakai was reduced to 52.51% at 1 mg/mL.
Incubating HepG2 cells with extracts of the five plants reduced lipid and TG
accumulation by >50%, and inhibited lipid peroxidation by
~19%. These results provided evidence for the development of
functional foods based on these five plants from Ulleung Island, due to their
antioxidant activities and ability to reduce lipid accumulation.
Identification of anti-diabetic complication products from green
tea induced by cold plasma
Authors: Jeong Gyeong Han , Lee Youjeoung , Kim Sunghyun , Park Seungil , Kim Seong Bong , Kim Tae Hoon
Published: November 2020

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) with abundant phenolic compounds
is considered to a major dietary source of flavan 3-ols such as
(−)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Here, we assessed the effects of
non-thermal dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma on green tea extract using
spectroscopy and bioassays. Plasma-induced structural changes in EGCG in green
tea resulted in the isolation of two methylene-bridge dimers,
oolonghomobisflavan A (1) and B (2). The structures of these compounds were
characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopy data. The
symmetric dimer 1 connected by a methylene linkage was the most potent inhibitor
of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation (IC50,
8.2±0.5 μM). The radical scavenging capacity of against hydroxyl,
and stereoisomers 1 and 2 was more potent than that of the positive control
((+)-catechin). These major products purified by treating green tea with
DBD plasma for 60 min were quantified by HPLC. Our results provide evidence that
structural changes of EGCG in green tea extract induced by plasma might enhance
biological efficacy.
COHD-COVID: Columbia Open Health Data for COVID-19 Research
Authors: Lee Junghwan , Kim Jae Hyun , Liu Cong , Hripcsak George , Ta Casey , Weng Chunhua
Published: November 2020

Massive research efforts have been made in response to the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease-2019) pandemic. Utilization of clinical data can accelerate these research efforts to fight against the pandemic since important characteristics of the patients are often found by examining the clinical data. To provide shareable clinical data to catalyze COVID-19 research, we present Columbia Open Health Data for COVID-19 Research (COHD-COVID), a publicly accessible database providing clinical concept prevalence, clinical concept co-occurrence, and clinical symptom prevalence for hospitalized COVID-19 patients. COHD-COVID also provides data on hospitalized influenza patients and general hospitalized patients as comparator cohorts. The data used in COHD-COVID were obtained from Columbia University Irving Medical Center’s electronic health records. We expect COHD-COVID will provide researchers and clinicians quantitative measures of COVID-19 related clinical features to better understand and fight against the pandemic.
COVID-19: more than “a little flu”? Insights from the Swiss hospital-based surveillance of Influenza and COVID-19
Authors: Fröhlich Georg Marcus , De Kraker Marlieke E. A. , Abbas Mohammed , Keiser Olivia , Thiabaud Amaury , Roulens Maroussia , Cusini Alexia , Flury Domenica , Schreiber Peter W. , Buettcher Michael , Corti Natascia , Vuichard-Gysin Danielle , Troillet Nicolas , Sauser Julien , Gaudenz Roman , Damonti Lauro , Balmelli Carlo , Iten Anne , Widmer Andreas , Harbarth Stephan , Sommerstein Rami
Published: November 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has frequently been colloquially compared to the seasonal influenza, but comparisons based on empirical data are scarce.

Aims

To compare in-hospital outcomes for patients admitted with community-acquired COVID-19 to patients with community-acquired influenza in Switzerland.

Methods

Patients >18 years, who were admitted with PCR proven COVID-19 or influenza A/B infection to 14 participating Swiss hospitals were included in a prospective surveillance. Primary and secondary outcomes were the in-hospital mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) admission between influenza and COVID-19 patients. We used Cox regression (cause-specific models, and Fine & Gray subdistribution) to account for time-dependency and competing events with inverse probability weighting to account for confounders.

Results

In 2020, 2843 patients with COVID-19 were included from 14 centers and in years 2018 to 2020, 1361 patients with influenza were recruited in 7 centers. Patients with COVID-19 were predominantly male (n=1722, 61% vs. 666 influenza patients, 48%, p<0.001) and were younger than influenza patients (median 67 years IQR 54-78 vs. median 74 years IQR 61-84, p<0.001). 363 patients (12.8%) died in-hospital with COVID-19 versus 61 (4.4%) patients with influenza (p<0.001). The final, adjusted subdistribution Hazard Ratio for mortality was 3.01 (95% CI 2.22-4.09, p<0.001) for COVID-19 compared to influenza, and 2.44 (95% CI, 2.00-3.00, p<0.001) for ICU admission.

Conclusion

Even in a national healthcare system with sufficient human and financial resources, community-acquired COVID-19 was associated with worse outcomes compared to community-acquired influenza, as the hazards of in-hospital death and ICU admission were ∼3-fold higher.
The decrease in hospitalizations for transient ischemic attack and ischemic stroke, especially in mild cases, during the COVID-19 epidemic in Japan
Authors: Nagano Hiroyuki , Takada Daisuke , Shin Jung-ho , Morishita Tetsuji , Kunisawa Susumu , Imanaka Yuichi
Published: November 2020

Background and Purpose

The epidemic of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected health care systems globally. The aim of our study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on hospital admissions for stroke in Japan.

Methods

We analyzed administrative (Diagnosis Procedure Combination) data for cases of inpatients aged 18 years and older who were diagnosed with stroke (ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), hemorrhagic stroke, or subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH)) and discharged from hospital during the period July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2020. The number of patients with each stroke diagnosis, various patient characteristics, and treatment approaches were compared before and after the epidemic. Changes in the trend of the monthly number of inpatients with each stroke diagnosis were assessed using interrupted time-series analyses.

Results

A total of 111,922 cases (ischemic stroke: 74,897 cases; TIA: 5,374 cases; hemorrhagic stroke: 24,779 cases; SAH: 6,872 cases) in 253 hospitals were included. The number of cases for all types of stroke decreased (ischemic stroke: -13.9%; TIA: -21.4%; hemorrhagic stroke: -9.9%; SAH: -15.2%) in April and May 2020, compared to the number of cases in 2019. Ischemic stroke and TIA cases, especially mild cases (modified Rankin Scale = 0), decreased, with a statistically significant change in trend between the before- and after-epidemic periods.

Conclusions

These data showed a marked reduction in the number of hospital admissions due to stroke during the COVID-19 epidemic. The change in Ischemic stroke and TIA cases, especially mild cases, was statistically significant.
Altered heterosynaptic plasticity impairs visual discrimination learning in adenosine A1 receptor knockout mice
Authors: Chasse Renee , Malyshev Alexey , Fitch R. Holly , Volgushev Maxim
Published: November 2020

Theoretical and modeling studies demonstrate that heterosynaptic plasticity - changes at synapses inactive during induction - facilitates fine-grained discriminative learning in Hebbian-type systems, and helps to achieve a robust ability for repetitive learning. A dearth of tools for selective manipulation has hindered experimental analysis of the proposed role of heterosynaptic plasticity in behavior. Here we circumvent this obstacle by testing specific predictions about changes in heterosynaptic plasticity, and associated behavioral consequences, following experimental manipulation of adenosine A1 receptors (A1R). We show that, compared to wild-type controls, A1R-knockout mice have impaired synaptic plasticity in visual cortex neurons, coupled with significant deficits in visual discrimination learning. Deficits in A1R-knockouts were seen specifically during re-learning, becoming progressively more apparent with learning on sequential visual discrimination tasks of increasing complexity. These behavioral results confirm our model predictions, and provide the first experimental evidence for a proposed role of heterosynaptic plasticity in learning.

Highlights

Synaptic plasticity is impaired in visual cortex neurons in adenosine A1R knockout mice

Homosynaptic and heterosynaptic plasticity in A1R KO mice is dominated by depression

Learning on sequential, increasingly complex visual tasks is impaired in A1R KO mice

Learning deficits match predicted effects of impaired heterosynaptic plasticity