bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PAMP-triggered genetic reprogramming involves widespread alternative transcription initiation and an immediate transcription factor wave
Authors: Thieffry Axel , López-Márquez Diego , Bornholdt Jette , Malekroudi Mojgan Gholami , Bressendorff Simon , Barghetti Andrea , Sandelin Albin , Brodersen Peter
Published: April 2022

Immune responses triggered by pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) are key to pathogen defense, but drivers and stabilizers of the growth-to-defense genetic reprogramming remain incompletely understood in plants. Here, we report a time-course study of the establishment of PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI) using cap analysis of gene expression. We show that around 15% of all transcription start sites (TSSs) rapidly induced during PTI define alternative transcription initiation events. From these, we identify clear examples of regulatory TSS change via alternative inclusion of target peptides or domains in encoded proteins, or of upstream open reading frames in mRNA leader sequences. We also find that 60% of PAMP response genes respond earlier than previously thought. In particular, a cluster of rapidly and transiently PAMP-induced genes is enriched in transcription factors (TFs) whose functions, previously associated with biological processes as diverse as abiotic stress adaptation and stem cell activity, appear to converge on growth restriction. Furthermore, examples of known potentiators of PTI, in one case under direct mitogen-activated protein kinase control, support the notion that the rapidly induced TFs could constitute direct links to PTI signaling pathways and drive gene expression changes underlying establishment of the immune state.
Fibrillin2 in chloroplast plastoglobules participates in photoprotection and jasmonate-induced senescence
Authors: Kim Inyoung , Kim Eun-Ha , Choi Yu-ri , Kim Hyun Uk
Published: April 2022

Fibrillins (FBNs) are the major structural proteins of plastoglobules (PGs) in chloroplasts. PGs are associated with defense against abiotic and biotic stresses, as well as lipid storage. Although FBN2 is abundant in PGs, its independent function under abiotic stress has not yet been identified. In this study, the targeting of FBN2 to PGs was clearly demonstrated using an FBN2-YFP fusion protein. FBN2 showed higher expression in green photosynthetic tissues and was upregulated at the transcriptional level under high-light stress. The photosynthetic capacity of fbn2 knockout mutants generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology decreased rapidly compared with that of wild-type (WT) plants under high-light stress. In addition to the photoprotective function of FBN2, fbn2 mutants had lower levels of plastoquinone-9 and plastochromanol-8. The fbn2 mutants were highly sensitive to methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and exhibited root growth inhibition and a pale-green phenotype due to reduced chlorophyll content. Consistently, upon MeJA treatment, the fbn2 mutants showed faster leaf senescence and more rapid chlorophyll degradation with decreased photosynthetic ability compared with the WT plants. The results of this study suggest that FBN2 is involved in protection against high-light stress and acts as an inhibitor of jasmonate-induced senescence in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana).
Examining the Relationship Between Reactive Stepping Outcomes and Falls in People With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Monaghan Andrew S , Mansfield Avril , Huisinga Jessie M , Peterson Daniel S
Published: April 2022

Objective

Reactive stepping is critical for preventing falls and is impaired in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS); however, which aspects of stepping relate to falls remains poorly understood. Identifying outcomes most related to falls is a first step toward improving rehabilitation for fall prevention. The purpose of this study was to assess whether reactive step latency or length during forward and backward losses of balance were related to a history of falls in PwMS.

Methods

Of the 111 PwMS who participated in this study, 76 reported no falls in the previous 6 months, whereas 36 reported 1 or more falls. Participants completed 3 forward and 3 backward treadmill-induced reactive steps from stance. Step length (centimeters) and step latency (milliseconds) were measured using motion capture and analyzed via MATLAB.

Results

Participants with a history of falls had significantly slower step latencies during backward stepping, but not forward stepping, than those without a history of falls. Step length did not differ between groups. Slower step latencies during backward stepping significantly increased the odds of having experienced a fall (β = .908, SE = 0.403, odds ratio = 2.479, 95% CI = 1.125 to 5.464).

Conclusion

PwMS and a history of falling show delayed step onsets during backward reactive stepping. Specifically, for every 10-millisecond increase in step latency, PwMS were 2.5 times more likely to have a fall history. Although clinical trials are necessary to determine whether interventions targeting reactive stepping reduce falls in PwMS, the current work indicates that the latency of steps may be a relevant target for this work.

Impact

Subsequent fall prevention clinical trials should consider targeting backward reactive step latency to further assess its relevance for rehabilitation in PwMS.

Lay Summary

If you have MS and a history of falls, you may be more likely to have delayed reactive step latencies.
Application of osteoinductive calcium phosphate ceramics in giant cell tumor of the sacrum: report of six cases
Authors: Wang Yitian , Li Xiangfeng , Luo Yi , Zhang Li , Chen Hezhong , Min Li , Chang Qing , Zhou Yong , Tu Chongqi , Zhu Xiangdong , Zhang Xingdong
Published: April 2022

This study aimed at evaluating the possibility and effectiveness of osteoinductive bioceramics to fill the tumor cavity following the curettage of sacral giant cell tumor (GCT). Six patients (four females and two males, 25–45 years old) underwent nerve-sparing surgery, in which the tumor was treated by denosumab, preoperative arterial embolization and extensive curettage. The remaining cavity was filled with commercial osteoinductive calcium phosphate (CaP) bioceramics, whose excellent osteoinductivity was confirmed by intramuscular implantation in beagle canine. All patients were followed by computed tomography (CT) scans postoperatively. According to the modified Neer criterion, five cases obtained Type I healing status, and one case had Type II. At the latest follow-up, no graft-related complications and local recurrence were found. The CT scan indicated a median time of healing initiation of 3 months postoperatively, and the median time for relatively complete healing was 12 months. The excellent bone regenerative ability of the ceramics was also confirmed by increased CT attenuation value, blurred boundary and cortical rim rebuilding. In conclusion, osteoinductive CaP bioceramics could be an ideal biomaterial to treat the large remaining cavity following extensive curettage of sacral GCT. However, further investigation with more cases and longer follow-up was required to confirm the final clinical effect.
Corrigendum to: Addressing tobacco smoking and drinking to improve TB treatment outcomes, in South Africa: a feasibility study of the ProLife program
Authors: Louwagie Goedele M , Morojele Neo , Siddiqi Kamran , Mdege Noreen D , Tumbo John , Omole Olu , Pitso Lerato , Bachmann Max O , Ayo-Yusuf Olalekan A
Published: April 2022

Alcohol and tobacco use may lead to negative treatment outcomes in tuberculosis (TB) patients, and even more so if they are HIV-infected. We developed and tested the feasibility of a complex behavioral intervention (ProLife) delivered by lay health workers (LHWs) to improve treatment outcomes in TB patients who smoke tobacco and/or drink alcohol, at nine clinics in South Africa. The intervention comprised three brief motivational interviewing (MI) sessions augmented with a short message service (SMS) program, targeting as appropriate: tobacco smoking, harmful or hazardous drinking and medication adherence. Patients received SMSs twice a week. We measured recruitment and retention rates and assessed fidelity to the MI technique (MI Treatment Integrity 4.1 tool). Finally, we explored LHWs’ and patients’ experiences through interviews and semistructured questionnaires, respectively. We screened 137 TB patients and identified 14 smokers, 13 alcohol drinkers, and 18 patients with both behaviors. Participants’ mean age was 39.8 years, and 82.2% were men. The fidelity assessments pointed to the LHWs’ successful application of key MI skills, but failure to reach MI competency thresholds. Nevertheless, most patients rated the MI sessions as helpful, ascribed positive attributes to their counselors, and reported behavioral changes. SMSs were perceived as reinforcing but difficult language and technical delivery problems were identified as problems. The LHWs’ interview responses suggested that they (a) grasped the basic MI spirit but failed to understand specific MI techniques due to insufficient training practice; (b) perceived ProLife as having benefitted the patients (as well as themselves); (c) viewed the SMSs favorably; but (d) considered limited space and privacy at the clinics as key challenges. The ProLife program targeting multiple risk behaviors in TB patients is acceptable but LHW training protocol, and changes in wording and delivery of SMS are necessary to improve the intervention.

Trial registration: ISRCTN14213432
The Prenatal Primary Nursing Care Experience of Pregnant Women in Contexts of Vulnerability
Authors: Hudon Émilie , Hudon Catherine , Chouinard Maud-Christine , Lafontaine Sarah , de Jordy Louise Catherine , Ellefsen Édith
Published: April 2022

The contexts of vulnerability are diversified and cover a wide range of situations where pregnant women are likely to experience threats or disparities. Nurses should consider the particular circumstances of women in contexts of vulnerability. We used a qualitative thematic synthesis to describe the experience of these women regarding their prenatal primary nursing care. We identified that the women's experience is shaped by the prenatal care. The fulfillment of their needs and expectations will guide their decision regarding the utilization of their prenatal care. We propose a theoretical model to guide nurses, promoting person-centered delivery of prenatal care.
How and When to Transition to the Next Phase: Reflections
Authors: Tolo Vernon T. , Weinstein Stuart L.
Published: April 2022

With Americans living longer, many physicians and surgeons have extended their medical and surgical practice life beyond the traditional 65-year-old retirement age. As retirement is inevitable, planning for that eventuality, which in early practice years appears unnecessary, is in fact an exercise which will pay dividends at the time of retirement. Two senior orthopaedic surgeons provide insight on the 2 main issues concerning retirement: how to prepare for retirement while in active practice, and factors to consider as to the timing of that major life event.
Surviving Bad Meetings: Efficiencies to Thwart This Increasingly Common Administrative Time Vortex
Authors: Fletcher Nicholas D.
Published: April 2022

Meetings have become a near-constant presence in the practicing pediatric orthopaedist’s day. While many meetings are productive and efficient, others may represent a time vortex that take precious hours away from other meaningful pursuits. Organizers and participants in meetings have an obligation to optimize these gatherings whenever possible. Selecting optimal times, ensuring that the minutes together are spent efficiently, creating an agenda and presenting ideas to be discussed in an effective manner, actively listening to other participants, and debriefing are all ways that meetings can be made more productive and enjoyable.
Surviving in the Electronic Era: My Top EMR Hacks
Authors: Anari Jason B.
Published: April 2022

With many pediatric orthopaedic surgeons spending 3 or even more days a week in clinic, a thorough understanding of the ever-changing electronic medical record is paramount to providing excellent clinical care, overall job satisfaction, and minimizing clinician burnout. Here we provide 5 tips to optimize clinic workflow for the busy pediatric orthopaedic surgeon in the electronic medical record era.
Building Volume: How to Build a Referral Base With Patients, Pediatricians, and Everyone Else
Authors: Miller Daniel J.
Published: April 2022

Newly minted pediatric orthopaedic surgeons face a variety of challenges when building a practice. No matter how skilled a surgeon is, he/she will be unsuccessful by any metrics if they lack patients to take care of. This manuscript will review principles and practical techniques that pediatric orthopaedic surgeons can utilize to build a renewable referral base to fuel their practice.
Building Self-Confidence and Other Skills: What Surgeons Can Learn From Other Professions
Authors: Blakemore Laurel C.
Published: April 2022

Self-confidence is one of the attributes often assigned to surgeons, but surgeons do not always feel self-confident in the operating room. A lack of confidence may lead to poor performance for both the surgeon and the surgical team. The ideal qualities of a self-confident surgeon, barriers to achieving confidence and strategies for becoming a more confident surgeon and leader in the operating room are outlined in this chapter.
Innovation With Ethics in Pediatric Orthopaedics
Authors: Larson A.Noelle
Published: April 2022

Surgeons should thoughtfully consider whether to introduce a new procedure into their practice. Considerations include the severity of the condition, potential risk of harm, treatment alternatives, patient population, ability to appropriately consent patient/families, and available clinical and institutional resources as well as published evidence and regulatory status. Whenever possible, new procedures should be standardized, studied, and reported upon so that the greater community can learn from experience and refine the indications to minimize risks for future patients. Small scale innovation can readily be introduced into practice. Surgeons should always strive to systemically study new procedures so as to be able to assess benefits and effects.
Transforming Your Operating Room into a High Functioning Team: A Survival Guide for Junior Attendings in the OR
Authors: Heffernan Michael J. , Andras Lindsay M.
Published: April 2022

In this article, we outline several key concepts to help develop your operating room team. This is an evolutionary process with numerous benefits to the team members, surgeon, and most importantly the patients. We outline strategies for engaging and preparing your team members so that the operating room runs more efficiently. We also outline the do’s and don’ts of building trust amongst team members which is critical to transforming into a high functioning team.
Robotic CyberKnife radiosurgery for small choroidal melanomas
Authors: Schmelter Valerie , Hofmann Theresa , Schneider Frederick , Weber Constance , Fuerweger Christoph , Muacevic Alexander , Priglinger Siegfried G. , Foerster Paul , Liegl Raffael
Published: April 2022

Plaque brachytherapy is the most common procedure for the treatment of small choroidal melanoma, especially in posteriorly located tumors. However, there is only little information on outcome after treatment with stereotactic radiosurgery, for example, CyberKnife radiosurgery. We reviewed patients with choroidal melanoma (maximum tumor height 4 mm) treated with CyberKnife radiosurgery. Demographic information, tumor dimension, complications, metastasis and overall survival during the whole follow-up were tracked and analyzed with a specific focus on local tumor control and potential risk factors. One hundred eighty-eight patients (102 female, 54.2%) with a median age of 63 years [interquartile range (IQR): 54–73 years] were analyzed over a median of 46 months (IQR: 24–62 months). Metastasis occurred in 14 patients (7.4%) in median of 18 months after treatment (IQR: 13–47 months) and survival was achieved in 178 patients (94.7%). Within the observation period, eye retention was observed in 166 patients (88.3%). Superior local control was achieved in patients who received a prescription dose of at least 21 Gy or more (91.6%; P = 0.04). Other potential risk factors incrementing local control were treatment planning with missing MRI in advance and too small target delineation during the planning process. Radiosurgery (CyberKnife) in a single, outpatient procedure is suitable for the treatment of small choroidal melanoma. We found local control rate after 3 years compared to the standard treatment with plaque brachytherapy. On the study side, 15 years of CyberKnife treatment allowed to identify risk factors that might increment local control and thus improve treatment regimens.
Decorin Inhibits Dermal Mesenchymal Cell Migration and Induces Scar Formation
Authors: Takaya Kento , Aramaki-Hattori Noriko , Sakai Shigeki , Okabe Keisuke , Asou Toru , Kishi Kazuo
Published: April 2022

Background:

Variations in skin healing capacities are observed during different murine embryonic developmental stages. Through embryonic day 16 (E16), embryos are able to regenerate dermal architecture following flank skin wounding; however, after E17, wounds heal incompletely, inducing scar formation. The regenerative ability of the E16 fetal dermis depends on the migration of dermal mesenchymal cells. Decorin is a small molecule known to affect tissue tensile strength, cell phenotype, and tissue repair, including skin wound healing. In the current study, we evaluated the expression and roles of decorin in wound healing.

Methods:

Surgical injury was induced at E16 and E17 in ICR mouse embryos. Decorin expression was evaluated in tissue samples from these embryos using immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell migration assays were used to evaluate wound healing capability of separated dermal and fascial tissues.

Results:

Our results showed that decorin exhibited distinct expression patterns during wound healing at E16 versus E17. Additionally, decorin expression altered cell migration in vitro. Dermal and fascial mesenchymal cells were found to exhibit distinct migration patterns concomitant with altered decorin expression. Specifically, decorin inhibited migration and favored scar formation.

Conclusion:

Decorin expression may contribute to scar formation in the late stage of mouse embryos by inhibiting the migration of dermal mesenchymal cells.
Development of a Score for Predicting Severe Acute Pancreatitis at Admission
Authors: Vannier Elise , Dupont-Lucas Claire , Lagarde Benoît , Menahem Benjamin , Chaigneau Thomas , Piquet Marie-Astrid , Dupont Benoît
Published: April 2022

Objectives

The identification of patients at risk of developing a severe form of acute pancreatitis is a major issue. The goal of this study was to identify parameters at admission associated with severe pancreatitis to develop a predictive severity score.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study at Caen University Hospital between January 2014 and December 2017, including 504 patients hospitalized for acute pancreatitis, of whom 74 had a severe form. We developed a predictive score named Admission Severe Acute Pancreatitis (ASAP) score based on parameters associated with a severe form in multivariate analysis. We validated our score in an independent validation cohort of 80 patients.

Results

Hypothermia, low oxygen saturation or albumin levels, and high creatinine levels were significantly associated with severe pancreatitis. The ASAP score showed notable predictive accuracy (area under receiver operating characteristic, 0.82), which was significantly higher than Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, persistent Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, and Balthazar. Using the −2.1742 threshold, the ASAP score had a sensitivity and specificity of 74% and a negative predictive value of 95%. These predictive performances for ASAP score were confirmed in the validation cohort.

Conclusions

The ASAP score demonstrates remarkable predictive accuracy in distinguishing severe forms of acute pancreatitis.
Pancreatic Stones
Authors: Yamamoto Satoshi , Inui Kazuo , Katano Yoshiaki , Miyoshi Hironao , Kobayashi Takashi , Tachi Yoshihiko , Torii Yoshinori
Published: April 2022

Objectives

While chronic pancreatitis associated with pancreatolithiasis presents with pain, exocrine and endocrine pancreatic functions worsen with time. We examined outcomes of nonsurgical treatment.

Methods

Between 1992 and 2020, we treated pancreatolithiasis nonsurgically in 165 patients with chronic pancreatitis using extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy alone or followed by endoscopic procedures. The mean follow-up duration was 49 months (standard deviation, 56 months) and the age was 56 years (standard deviation, 13 years). The male:female ratio was 5.1:1 (138 men, 27 women). We followed treatment results including relief of abdominal pain, stone clearance and recurrence, and pancreatic exocrine function (bentiromide-p-aminobenzoic acid testing).

Results

Treatment relieved pain in 117 of 124 patients (94%). The overall stone clearance was achieved in 130 of 165 patients (79%). Stones recurred during follow-up in 50 of 130 patients (38%). One fifth of recurrences were early, often involving stricture of the main pancreatic duct. After 1 year, 65% of the patients had improved or stable exocrine function.

Conclusions

Nonsurgical stone removal usually improved symptoms and preserved pancreatic exocrine function. Nonsurgical treatment with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy followed by endoscopic treatment if needed is useful as initial management for pancreatolithiasis.
Nursing Students' Cue Recognition in Educational Simulation
Authors: Poledna Mari , Gómez-Morales Abigail , Hagler Debra
Published: April 2022

Background:

New nurses often struggle with recognizing cues and applying clinical judgment. Nurse educators develop educational simulation scenarios to support students in developing clinical judgment, which includes the foundational step of recognizing cues.

Purpose:

A scoping review on undergraduate nursing students' cue recognition during simulation was conducted to systematically map the existing research and identify knowledge gaps.

Methods:

From initial identification of 228 studies published between 2010 and 2020, a total of 17 quantitative or qualitative studies were independently appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review process and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines.

Results:

Cues were missed with varying levels of frequency. Participants frequently failed to recognize respiratory rates and physical assessment changes as salient cues to patient deterioration. Verbal cues from simulated patients were often missed or resulted in distancing behaviors.

Conclusion:

Research is needed to determine the most effective methods for helping learners develop skills in cue recognition and analysis.
The Importance of Protecting the Structure and Viability of Adipose Tissue for Fat Grafting
Authors: He Yu , Zhang Xinyu , Han Xuefeng , Li Facheng
Published: April 2022

Background:

Fat grafting is widely used for soft-tissue augmentation; however, the related clinical outcome remains variable and technique-dependent. The mechanisms underlying fat graft survival are not fully understood, particularly regarding the contributions of different cell types, such as functional adipocytes. This study evaluated the importance of adipose tissue structure and viability in fat grafting and, to some extent, revealed the effect of adipocytes in fat grafting.

Methods:

Human lipoaspirate was harvested using suction-assisted liposuction and processed using three separate methods: cotton-pad filtration, soft centrifugation (400 g for 1 minute), and Coleman centrifugation (1200 g for 3 minutes). Then all samples were subjected to second cotton-pad concentration. Adipose tissue structure and viability, the numbers of adipose-derived stem cells, and their proliferation and multilineage differentiation abilities were compared in vitro. The volume retention rate and fat graft quality were evaluated in vivo.

Results:

Cell structure destruction and viability decline were more evident in the Coleman centrifugation group compared to the cotton-pad filtration group and the soft centrifugation group. However, no intergroup differences were observed in the numbers, proliferation, or multilineage differentiation abilities of adipose-derived stem cells. After transplantation, the volume retention rates were similar in the three groups. However, greater structural and functional damage was associated with poorer graft quality, including decreased levels of graft viability, vessel density, and vascular endothelial growth factor secretion and increased levels of vacuoles, necrotic areas, fibrosis, and inflammation.

Conclusions:

Protecting adipose tissue structure and viability is crucial for improving fat grafting outcomes.

Clinical Relevance Statement:

The protection of the structure and viability of adipose tissue should be ensured throughout the whole process of fat grafting to reduce complications and improve graft quality.
Outcome Analysis of Medial Triceps Motor Nerve Transfer to Axillary Nerve in Isolated and Brachial Plexus–Associated Axillary Nerve Palsy
Authors: Krauss Emily M. , Noland Shelley S. , Hill Elspeth J. R. , Jain Nirbhay S. , Kahn Lorna C. , Mackinnon Susan E.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Since 2007, the authors have performed the triceps–to–axillary nerve transfer using the medial triceps branch to reconstruct axillary nerve function in brachial plexus and isolated axillary nerve palsies.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was undertaken of patients reconstructed with this transfer, recording patient and injury demographics and time to surgery. Preoperative and postoperative function was graded using the Medical Research Council scale and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire.

Results:

Postoperatively, 31 patients (64.6 percent) reached Medical Research Council grade 3 or higher at final follow-up. The median Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 59.9 (interquartile range, 38.8 to 70.5) preoperatively and 25.0 (interquartile range, 11.3 to 61.4) at final follow-up. Sixteen patients (33 percent) had isolated axillary nerve injury; the median Medical Research Council grade was 4.25 (interquartile range, 3 to 4.25), with 14 patients (87.6 percent) achieving grade 3 or higher. Thirty-two patients (77 percent) had brachial plexus–associated injury; median Medical Research Council grade was 3 (interquartile range, 2 to 3), with 17 patients (53.1 percent) achieving grade 3 or higher.

Conclusion:

Medial triceps nerve branch is a strong donor for triceps–to–axillary nerve transfer; however, injury factors may limit the motor recovery in this complex patient population, particularly in axillary nerve palsy associated with brachial plexus injury.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
The General Registry of Autologous Fat Transfer: Concept, Design, and Analysis of Fat Grafting Complications
Authors: Kaur Surinder , Rubin J. Peter , Gusenoff Jeffrey , Sommers Catherine A. , Shamsunder Meghana G. , Hume Keith M. , Mehrara Babak J.
Published: April 2022

Background:

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Plastic Surgery Foundation launched GRAFT, the General Registry of Autologous Fat Transfer, in October of 2015. This web-accessible registry addresses the need for prospective and systematic data collection, to determine the rates of unfavorable outcomes (complications) of fat grafting. Understanding and avoiding the factors that lead to complications can help establish safe practices for fat grafting.

Methods:

Data collected between October of 2015 and November of 2019 were summarized for age, sex, indications, processing techniques, and fat graft volume. Rates of complications for fat grafting to various anatomical areas were calculated.

Results:

The General Registry of Autologous Fat Transfer collected data on 7052 fat grafting procedures from 247 plastic surgery practices. The mean age of the patients in the registry was 51 years (range, 1 to 89 years), 94 percent were female, and 64 percent of the procedures were for aesthetic indications. Whereas the overall complication rate was low (5.01 percent), the complication rates for fat grafting to the breast and buttocks (7.29 percent and 4.19 percent, respectively) were higher than those for face and other areas (1.94 percent and 2.86 percent, respectively). Oil cysts (2.68 percent) and infections (1.64 percent) were the most common complications of breast fat grafting, whereas seroma (1.84 percent) and palpable mass (1.33 percent) were most common for fat grafting to buttocks. Palpable mass (0.54 percent) and infections (0.54 percent) were most common for fat grafting to face.

Conclusions:

The General Registry of Autologous Fat Transfer provides a valuable tool for prospective tracking of fat grafting techniques and complications. Data collected in the registry show low rates of complications for all recipient areas treated with fat grafting.

Clinical Relevance Statement:

GRAFT collects real world data on complications of autologous fat grafting procedures. The data collected over 4 years shows low rates of complications for fat grafting. The benchmarking tools available in GRAFT can help enhance techniques and safety of fat grafting.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, III.
Correlating Quantitative Para-Aortic Lymph Node Computed Tomography Parameters With Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography for Cervical Cancer Staging: Possible Solution for Resource Constrained Countries
Authors: D’Cunha Paul , Albuquerque Kevin , Xi Yin , Pinho Daniella F.
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the most accurate quantitative morphological parameters on computed tomography (CT) that correlate with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-avid para-aortic nodes (PANs) in patients with cervical cancer.

Methods

A single-institution retrospective evaluation was performed of women with cervical cancer who underwent pretreatment positron emission tomography (PET)/CT and radiotherapy therapy planning CT between 2009 and 2020. A node-by-node correlation between pretreatment CT and PET/CT was performed for the reference standard of FDG avidity for short- and long-axis diameters, volume, and long-/short-axis ratio (L/S). The FDG-avid PANs were defined as PET-positive and non–FDG-avid PANs from patients without PET-determined PAN metastasis were defined as PET negative. Area under the receiver operator curve was calculated to access diagnostic accuracy of the different quantitative parameters.

Results

A total of 94 women (mean age ± standard deviation, 52 ± 13 years) with cervical cancer were included. Forty-seven patients had PET-positive PANs (181 PET-positive PANs) and 47 patients had no PET-positive PANs (141 PET-negative PANs). The area under the receiver operator curve for volume (0.945) was greater (P < 0.001) than that of short axis (0.895), long axis (0.885), and L/S (0.583). At a specificity set point of 0.90 (127/141 PANs), the cutoff for volume was 0.443 cm3 or greater (0.85 sensitivity [154/181 PANs]; 95% confidence interval, 0.83–0.93) and for short-axis diameter was 5.9 mm or greater (0.75 sensitivity [135/181 PANs]; 95% confidence interval, 0.68–0.81).

Conclusions

Para-aortic lymph node volume demonstrated that improved node-by-node correlation between CT and PET/CT compared with short-axis diameter, long-axis diameter, and L/S and is an alternative to improve detection of PAN suspicious of metastatic diseases in locations without access to PET/CT.
Preoperative Patient and Lesion Features Are Valuable for Predicting the Prognosis of Resectable Peripheral Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Qi Li-Ping , Li Xiao-Ting , Ma Ze-Ming , Yang Yue , Chen Jin-Feng , Sun Ying-Shi
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate the preoperative factors affecting the survival of patients with resectable peripheral non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to improve the management of NSCLC.

Methods

One hundred ninety-nine patients with peripheral NSCLC diagnosed clinically without lymph node metastasis were enrolled. The preoperative computed tomography characteristics of the tumors were retrospectively analyzed and the preoperative clinical data were collected. The size of the solid components for lung adenocarcinomas containing ground-glass opacity (GGO) component were measured. Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank test was used to compare overall survival (OS) between groups. Univariate and multivariate cox regression analyses were used to identify prognostic factors.

Results

Survival analysis showed that the OS of the group with a tumor of 3 cm or less was longer than that of the group with a tumor greater than 3 cm, the OS of the group with GGO component was superior to that of the group without GGO component, and the OS of the group with elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels was inferior to that of the group with normal CEA levels. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that tumor size, density, and preoperative CEA level were independent factors affecting OS, with hazard ratios of 2.401, 0.457, and 1.948, respectively. The analysis of lung adenocarcinomas with GGO component demonstrated that the mean size of the solid component in the nonsurviving group was significantly larger than that in the surviving group (mean, 23 ± 6.4 vs 8.6 ± 7.0 mm). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the solid component size of lung cancer containing GGO component to predict postoperative death was 0.932.

Conclusions

Tumor size, density, and preoperative CEA level were independent prognostic factors of patients with resectable peripheral NSCLCs. Preoperative computed tomography findings can be valuable for predicting the prognosis of patients with NSCLC after surgery.
Kinetic model for international trade allowing transfer of individuals
Authors: Bisi M.
Published: April 2022

We propose a kinetic model to describe trade among different populations, living in different countries. The interaction rules are assumed depending on the trading propensity of each population and also on non-deterministic (random) effects. Moreover, the possible transfers of individuals from one country to another are also taken into account, by means of suitable Boltzmann-type operators. Consistent macroscopic equations for number density and mean wealth of each country are derived from the kinetic equations, and the effects of transfers on their equilibrium values are commented on. Finally, a suitable continuous trading limit is considered, leading to a simpler system of Fokker–Planck-type kinetic equations, with specific contributions accounting for transfers.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
Income inequality and mobility in geometric Brownian motion with stochastic resetting: theoretical results and empirical evidence of non-ergodicity
Authors: Stojkoski Viktor , Jolakoski Petar , Pal Arnab , Sandev Trifce , Kocarev Ljupco , Metzler Ralf
Published: April 2022

We explore the role of non-ergodicity in the relationship between income inequality, the extent of concentration in the income distribution, and income mobility, the feasibility of an individual to change their position in the income rankings. For this purpose, we use the properties of an established model for income growth that includes ‘resetting’ as a stabilizing force to ensure stationary dynamics. We find that the dynamics of inequality is regime-dependent: it may range from a strictly non-ergodic state where this phenomenon has an increasing trend, up to a stable regime where inequality is steady and the system efficiently mimics ergodicity. Mobility measures, conversely, are always stable over time, but suggest that economies become less mobile in non-ergodic regimes. By fitting the model to empirical data for the income share of the top earners in the USA, we provide evidence that the income dynamics in this country is consistently in a regime in which non-ergodicity characterizes inequality and immobility. Our results can serve as a simple rationale for the observed real-world income dynamics and as such aid in addressing non-ergodicity in various empirical settings across the globe.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
Opinion polarization in social networks
Authors: Loy Nadia , Raviola Matteo , Tosin Andrea
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we propose a Boltzmann-type kinetic description of opinion formation on social networks, which takes into account a general connectivity distribution of the individuals. We consider opinion exchange processes inspired by the Sznajd model and related simplifications but we do not assume that individuals interact on a regular lattice. Instead, we describe the structure of the social network statistically, assuming that the number of contacts of a given individual determines the probability that their opinion reaches and influences the opinion of another individual. From the kinetic description of the system, we study the evolution of the mean opinion, whence we find precise analytical conditions under which a
polarization switch
of the opinions, i.e. a change of sign between the initial and the asymptotic mean opinions, occurs. In particular, we show that a non-zero correlation between the initial opinions and the connectivity of the individuals is necessary to observe polarization switch. Finally, we validate our analytical results through Monte Carlo simulations of the stochastic opinion exchange processes on the social network.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
Pandemics of mutating virus and society: a multi-scale active particles approach
Authors: Bellomo N. , Burini D. , Outada N.
Published: April 2022

This article presents, within a multiscale framework, a search for a unified approach towards modelling the COVID-19 pandemic, from contagion to within-host dynamics. The modelling is focused on vaccination and therapeutical actions in general. The first part of our article is devoted to understanding the complex features of the system and to the design of a modelling rationale. Then, the modelling approach follows mainly focused on the competition between the proliferating virus and the immune system. Modelling considers also the action of vaccination plans related to the onset of new variants.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
Study of taxes, regulations and inequality using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Neñer Julian , Cardoso Ben-Hur Francisco , Laguna María Fabiana , Gonçalves Sebastián , Iglesias José Roberto
Published: April 2022

Genetic machine learning (ML) algorithms to train agents in the Yard–Sale model proved very useful for finding optimal strategies that maximize their wealth. However, the main result indicates that the more significant the fraction of rational agents, the greater the inequality at the collective level. From social and economic viewpoints, this is an undesirable result since high inequality diminishes liquidity and trade. Besides, with very few exceptions, most agents end up with zero wealth, despite the inclusion of rational behaviour. To deal with this situation, here we include a taxation–redistribution mechanism in the ML algorithm. Previous results show that simple regulations can considerably reduce inequality if agents do not change their behaviour. However, when considering rational agents, different types of redistribution favour risk-averse agents, to some extent. Even so, we find that rational agents looking for optimal wealth can always arrive to an optimal risk, compatible with a particular choice of parameters, but increasing inequality.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
An economically realistic asset exchange model
Authors: Boghosian Bruce M. , Hudes Matthew , Khachatryan Gor A. , Marcq Jeremy
Published: April 2022

Despite their highly idealized nature, certain agent-based models of asset exchange, proposed for the most part by physicists and mathematicians, have been shown to exhibit remarkable agreement with empirical wealth distribution data. While this agre- ement is comforting, there is widespread sentiment that further progress will require a detailed under- standing of the connection between these idealized models and the more realistic microeconomic models of exchange used by economists. In this paper, we examine that connection for a three-parameter asset exchange model, the Affine Wealth Model (AWM), that has demonstrated fraction-of-a-per cent agreement with empirical wealth data. We compare certain properties of this model with those of three great milestones of twentieth century economics, namely (i) Expected Utility Theory, (ii) General Equilibrium Theory and (iii) Prospect Theory. We find that the phenomenology exhibited by the AWM is fundamentally incompatible with Expected Utility Theory and General Equilibrium Theory, but very similar to that exhibited by Prospect Theory. Based on these observations, we argue that AWM transactions are, in a particular sense, an approximation to those described by Prospect Theory, and that Prospect Theory provides the sought-for connection between econophysics and microeconomics, at least for the topic of wealth distribution.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies
Authors: Toscani Giuseppe , Sen Parongama , Biswas Soumyajyoti
Published: April 2022

The statistical nature of collective human behaviour in a society is a topic of broad current interest. From formation of consensus through exchange of ideas, distributing wealth through exchanges of money, traffic flows, growth of cities to spread of infectious diseases, the application range of such collective responses cuts across multiple disciplines. Kinetic models have been an elegant and powerful tool to explain such collective phenomena in a myriad of human interaction-based problems, where an energy consideration for dynamics is generally inaccessible. Nonetheless, in this age of Big Data, seeking empirical regularities emerging out of collective responses is a prominent and essential approach, much like the empirical thermodynamic principles preceding quantitative foundations of statistical mechanics. In this introductory article of the theme issue, we will provide an overview of the field of applications of kinetic theories in different socio-economic contexts and its recent boosting topics. Moreover, we will put the contributions to the theme issue in an appropriate perspective.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
Role of horizontally transferred copper resistance genes in Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Kaur Inderpreet , Purves Joanne , Harwood Matthew , Ketley Julian M. , Andrew Peter W. , Waldron Kevin J. , Morrissey Julie A.
Published: April 2022

Bacteria have evolved mechanisms which enable them to control intracellular concentrations of metals. In the case of transition metals, such as copper, iron and zinc, bacteria must ensure enough is available as a cofactor for enzymes whilst at the same time preventing the accumulation of excess concentrations, which can be toxic. Interestingly, metal homeostasis and resistance systems have been found to play important roles in virulence. This review will discuss the copper homeostasis and resistance systems in

Staphylococcus aureus

and

Listeria monocytogenes

and the implications that acquisition of additional copper resistance genes may have in these pathogens.
An observational analysis of patient recruitment in clinical trials in France using real-word database PMSI
Authors: Seanehia Joy , Lampuré Aurélie , Gordejuela Raimundo , Amdouni Basma , Manzione Pedro , Mammas Konstantinos
Published: April 2022

Background

France has significant clinical research and development potential, however, struggles in comparison to neighbouring countries. A significant reason is the difficulty to recruit patients, thus causing delays in the availability of new therapies to market. IQVIA uses Health Insurance Claims Data among other data assets, to better locate patients for trials based on the potential of hospitals.

Objective

The aim of the study was to monitor whether an increased number of patients enrolled in clinical trials in France was observed when PMSI data supported patient recruitment, as well as describing clinical trial landscape worldwide and in Europe.

Methods

We used data from ClinicalTrials.gov and Citeline to describe the clinical trial landscape in Europe between 2010 and 2019. We also looked at the IQVIA internal clinical trial tracker, Clinical Trial Management System (CTMS) to describe IQVIA-run trials and their performance after matching trials supported with PMSI data in France. We compared the average number of enrolled patients per site in PMSI and non-PMSI supported trials according to the study phase, using a Student t-test.

Results

Results suggest that the support of PMSI on the average number of enrolled patients per site, when comparing at similar trial phase level, shows a positive trend especially for phase 4 studies (11.0 with PMSI vs 9.3 without PMSI, p=0.67), and for phases 3b, 3 and 1, when compared to non-PMSI supported studies.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that PMSI use has the potential to increase patient recruitment into clinical trials run in France, rendering France more attractive in its exploitation of the clinical research potential. Optimising patient recruitment has a direct impact on the availability and timeliness of innovative therapies to market for French patients.
Self-Reported Mask Use among Persons with or without SARS CoV-2 Vaccination —United States, December 2020–August 2021
Authors: Calamari Lydia E. , Tjaden Ashley H. , Edelstein Sharon L. , Weintraub William S. , Santos Roberto , Gibbs Michael , Ward Johnathan , Santacatterina Michele , Bertoni Alain G. , Ward Lori M. , Saydah Sharon , Plumb Ian D. , Runyon Michael S. ,   COVID-19 Community Research Partnership Study Group
Published: April 2022

Wearing a facemask can help to decrease the transmission of COVID-19. We investigated self-reported mask use among subjects aged 18 years and older participating in the COVID-19 Community Research Partnership (CRP), a prospective longitudinal COVID-19 surveillance study in the mid-Atlantic and southeastern United States. We included those participants who completed ≥5 daily surveys each month from December 1, 2020 through August 31, 2021. Mask use was defined as self-reported use of a face mask or face covering on every interaction with others outside the household within a distance of less than 6 feet. Participants were considered vaccinated if they reported receiving ≥1 COVID-19 vaccine dose. Participants (n=17,522) were 91% non-Hispanic White, 68% female, median age 57 years, 26% healthcare workers, with 95% self-reported receiving ≥1 COVID-19 vaccine dose through August; mean daily survey response was 85%. Mask use was higher among vaccinated than unvaccinated participants across the study period, regardless of the month of the first dose. Mask use remained relatively stable from December 2020 through April (range 71–80% unvaccinated; 86–93% vaccinated) and declined in both groups beginning in mid-May 2021 to 34% and 42% respectively in June 2021; mask use has increased again since July 2021. Mask use by all was lower during weekends and on Christmas and Easter, regardless of vaccination status. Independent predictors of higher mask use were vaccination, age ≥65 years, female sex, racial or ethnic minority group, and healthcare worker occupation, whereas a history of self-reported prior COVID-19 illness was associated with lower use.