bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical and analytical calculation of longitudinal bending of prismatic elastic rods under the action of axial compressive load taking into account the authorized weight
Authors: Oglu Azimli Aziz Shakhin , Yu Nesterov A , Yazyev S B , Chepurnenko A S , Babahova L G
Published: February 2021

The article is devoted to the problem of calculating the stability of compressed rods taking into account their own weight. A resolving differential equation of the second and fourth order with respect to the dimensionless deflection is obtained. A technique for numerically analytical and numerical solution of the obtained equation using the finite difference method is proposed. As a result, the problem was reduced to a generalized eigenvalue problem. Comparison with the solution of other authors is given.

The problem of determining the critical values for the rods is posed as the problem of finding the domain of these values depending on the boundary conditions and the coefficients α and .. The objective function is a converging power series with unknown coefficients. The solution of the prismatic rod stability problem is carried out in the MatLab environment. The values of α and ., for which the critical load takes a minimum value, are found.

To test the methodology, a number of problems were solved and compared with known solutions.

The proposed technique, in contrast to analytical solutions, allows solving the problem with arbitrary fixation of the ends of the rod. It is also suggested to take into account the length-varying stiffness and heterogeneity of the rod. Test problems showed good agreement with literature data. In the future, it is planned to develop a calculation method taking creep into account.

The higher quality of the analytical solution is shown in comparison with the existing methods.
Insights into the corrosion mechanism and electrochemical properties of the rust layer evolution for weathering steel with various Cl− deposition in the simulated atmosphere
Authors: Yu Qiang , Dong Wangyue , Yang Xiaoyu , Wang Qingfeng , Zhang Fucheng
Published: February 2021

This study aims to make clear the effect of various Cl− deposition conditions on the changes of corrosion mechanism and electrochemical properties of the rust layer for weathering steel. The results indicate that the corrosion rate in presence of low Cl− deposition is divided into three stages: sharp increase stage, rapid decrease stage and tending to be stable stage. While, the high Cl− deposition process is divided into two stages: sharp increase stage and decrease stage. The increased of Cl− deposition increase the contents of the γ-FeOOH and β-FeOOH and decrease the contents of the α-FeOOH, and then to reduce the corrosion resistance. For the initial corrosion cycles, the increased of Cl− deposition influence the oxygen supply, resulting in spatial heterogeneity of the potential distribution to promote the corrosion reaction. As the prolonged corrosion cycles, the weathering steel of low Cl− deposition forms a protective rust layer to make the potential distribution become relatively uniform to reduce the corrosion rate, while the weathering steel of high Cl− deposition of the potential distribution is more unevenly distributed with distinct low and high potential zones to promote corrosion reaction.
ZnO/graphene ambipolar transistor with low sub-threshold swing
Authors: Kim Byeong-Hyeok , Hong Sang-Hyun , Kang Jang-Won
Published: February 2021

We reported on enhanced device performance of ambipolar thin-film transistors (TFTs) with hybrid channel of Zinc oxide (ZnO) and multi-layer graphene (MLG), especially in reduced sub-threshold swing characteristics and increased carrier mobilities for the ambipolar conduction. The Raman spectroscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed that the single-layer graphene could be damaged by oxidation during the ZnO growth process. In MLG, we observed that the graphene layers distant from the interface of ZnO/graphene could be protected, leading to enhanced electrical properties in ZnO/graphene hybrid TFTs. These results showed that the ZnO/MLG hybrid structure is a suitable building block to realize advanced TFTs with low power consumption and high switching speed.
Basic surface electrocardiogram interpretation for the pharmacist
Authors: Mar Philip L , Van Tuyl Joseph S , Lim Michael J
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The electrocardiogram (ECG) is an invaluable tool for clinicians that provides important information about a patient’s heart. As clinical pharmacists play an ever-increasing role in cardiovascular care, ECG interpretation is an important skill with which to become familiar.

The ECG provides information on both electrical and biomechanical aspects of the heart. Electrical information such as the rhythm, rate, and axis of the electrical activity can all be provided by the ECG. Biomechanical information about the heart, such as the presence of ventricular hypertrophy and repolarization changes that may be associated with ischemia or myocardial injury, can also easily be gleaned from the ECG. Furthermore, the ECG plays a central role in both the diagnosis and treatment of common clinical conditions such as atrial fibrillation, ischemic heart disease, and QT interval prolongation

Conclusion

The ECG is one of the most commonly performed diagnostic tests, and clinicians should become familiar with its basic interpretation.
The Effect of Previous Irradiation for Patients With Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hong Wei-Jin , Zhang Guo-Yi , Chen Chun-Lin , Li Fang-Wei , Wang Hai-Bin
Published: February 2021

Background

Results regarding immediate prosthetic breast reconstruction after postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) have been inconsistent.

Objectives

The authors aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of PMRT before immediate prosthetic breast reconstruction for patients with breast cancer.

Methods

Electronic databases (PubMed, EmBase, and the Cochrane Library) were systematically searched to identify eligible studies from their inception until March 2020. The pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was applied as an effect estimate and calculated using the random-effects model.

Results

Nineteen studies including a total of 6757 patients were selected for final meta-analysis. The pooled OR showed that PMRT was associated with a higher incidence of reconstruction failure (OR = 2.57; 95% CI =1.55–4.26; P < 0.001), capsular contracture (OR = 5.99; 95% CI = 3.12–11.47; P < 0.001), and overall complications (OR = 2.52; 95% CI = 1.68–3.79; P < 0.001). It was also associated with a lower incidence of patient satisfaction (OR = 0.29; 95% CI = 0.16–0.52; P < 0.001) and good aesthetic results (OR = 0.25; 95% CI = 0.12–0.52; P < 0.001) compared with those who did not undergo PMRT. These significant associations could be affected by study design, mean age, stage of immediate breast reconstruction, follow-up, and study quality.

Conclusions

Although PMRT is the standard adjuvant therapy for mastectomy patients treated with immediate implant-based breast reconstruction, PMRT for patients undergoing immediate implant-based breast reconstruction has been associated with high risks of reconstruction failure, capsular contracture, and overall complications as well as low incidences of patient satisfaction and good aesthetic results.

Level of Evidence: 4
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Improve the Aging Skin of Nude Mice by Promoting Angiogenesis and Reducing Local Tissue Water
Authors: Qin Feng , Zhang Wenchao , Zhang Mingzi , Long Xiao , Si Loubin , Li Zhenjiang , Huang Jiuzuo , Wang Xiaojun
Published: February 2021

Background

Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are considered promising cells for skin rejuvenation. However, whether the angiogenetic effect of ASCs plays an important role in the treatment of aging skin and its influence on skin tissue remain elusive.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ASCs on angiogenesis and local tissue water (LTW) in the aging skin of nude mice.

Methods

Twelve nude mice were randomly divided into a UVB-induced photoaging group and a natural aging group. After the mouse model had been established, ASCs and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) were then each injected into different sides of the dorsal skin of the mice. Blood perfusion and LTW content were measured. After 7 weeks, mice were killed, and skin samples were collected to measure the thickness of the dermis, the density of the capillaries, and the expression of angiogenic growth factors.

Results

ASC therapy significantly increased the thickness of the dermis, the number of capillaries, and the expression of some angiogenic growth factors (vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor 1, and epidermal growth factor). At 7 weeks after injection, blood perfusion was significantly higher on the side injected with ASCs than on the side injected with PBS. LTW content was increased in the PBS-injected side, but the ASC-injected side showed no significant changes over time.

Conclusions

ASCs increased dermal thickness, promoted angiogenesis, and reduced LTW content in the skin of photoaging mice, providing a potential clinical therapy for skin rejuvenation.
Resident Exposure to Aesthetic Surgical and Nonsurgical Procedures During Canadian Residency Program Training
Authors: Quong Whitney L , Shih Jessica G , Knox Aaron D C , Zhygan Nick , Fish Joel S , Courtemanche Douglas J , Brown Mitchell H
Published: February 2021

North American residency programs are transitioning to competency-based medical education (CBME) to standardize training programs, and to ensure competency of residents upon graduation. At the centre of assessment in CBME are specific surgical procedures, or procedural competencies, that trainees must be able to perform. A study previously defined 31 procedural competencies for aesthetic surgery. In this transition period, understanding current educational trends in resident exposure to these aesthetic procedures is necessary.

The aim of this study was to characterize aesthetic procedures performed by Canadian plastic surgery residents during training, as well as to describe resident performance confidence levels and degree of resident involvement during those procedures.

Case logs were retrieved from all 10 English-language plastic surgery programs. All aesthetic procedures were identified, and coded according to previously defined core procedural competencies (CPCs) in the aesthetic domain of plastic surgery. Data extracted from each log included the procedure, training program, resident academic year, resident procedural role, and personal competence.

From July 2004 to June 2014, 6113 aesthetic procedures were logged by 55 graduating residents. Breast augmentation, mastopexy, and abdominoplasty were the most commonly performed CPCs, and residents report high levels of competence and surgical role in these procedures. Facial procedures, in particular rhinoplasty, as well as nonsurgical CPCs are associated with low exposure and personal competence levels.

Canadian plastic surgery residents are exposed to most of the core aesthetic procedural competencies, but the range of procedures performed is variable. With the implementation of CBME, consideration should be given to supplementation where gaps may exist in aesthetic case exposure.
DDX21 interacts with nuclear AGO2 and regulates the alternative splicing of SMN2
Authors: Gong Mengting , Zhang Xi , Wang Yaru , Mao Guiyan , Ou Yangqi , Wei Chenxi , Hu Xiang , Xiang Shuanglin
Published: February 2021

AGO2 is the only member of mammalian Ago protein family that possesses the catalytic activity and plays a central role in gene silencing. Recently researches reported that multiple gene silencing factors, including AGO2, function in the nuclei. The molecular mechanisms of the gene silencing factors functioning in nuclei are conducive to comprehend the roles of gene silencing in pretranslational regulation of gene expression. Here, we report that AGO2 interacts with DDX21 indirectly in an RNA-dependent manner by Co-IP and GST-Pulldown assays and the 2 proteins present nuclei foci in the immunofluorescence experiments. We found that DDX21 up-regulated the protein level of AGO2 and participated in target gene, SNM2, alternative splicing involved in AGO2 by the indirect interaction with AGO2, which produced different transcripts of SMN2 in discrepant expression level. This study laid important experiment foundation for the further analysis of the nuclear functions of gene silencing components.
Contribution of structural accessibility to the cooperative relationship of TF-lncRNA in myopia
Authors: Wang Hong , Li Jing , Wang Siyu , Lu Xiaoyan , Zhang Guosi , Zhuang Youyuan , Li Liansheng , Wang Wencan , Lin Peng , Chen Chong , Wang Hao , Chen Qi , Jiang Yongshuai , Qu Jia , Xu Liangde
Published: February 2021

Transcriptional regulation is associated with complicated mechanisms including multiple molecular interactions and collaborative drive. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have highly structured characteristics and play vital roles in the regulation of transcription in organisms. However, the specific contributions of conformation feature and underlying molecular mechanisms are still unclear. In the present paper, a hypothesis regarding molecular structure effect is presented, which proposes that lncRNAs fold into a complex spatial architecture and act as a skeleton to recruit transcription factors (TF) targeted binding, and which is involved in cooperative regulation. A candidate set of TF-lncRNA coregulation was constructed, and it was found that structural accessibility affected molecular binding force. In addition, transcription factor binding site (TFBS) regions of myopia-related lncRNA transcripts were disturbed, and it was discovered that base mutations affected the occurrence of significant molecular allosteric changes in important elements and variable splicing regions, mediating the onset and development of myopia. The results originated from structureomics and interactionomics and created conditions for systematic research on the mechanisms of structure-mediated TF-lncRNA coregulation in transcriptional regulation. Finally, these findings will help further the understanding of key regulatory roles of molecular allostery in cell physiological and pathological processes.
Long-term results of thoracoscopic ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: is the glass half full or half empty?
Authors: Belluschi Igor , Lapenna Elisabetta , Carino Davide , Trumello Cinzia , Cireddu Manuela , Ruggeri Stefania , Schiavi Davide , Monaco Fabrizio , Pozzoli Alberto , Agricola Eustachio , Alfieri Ottavio , De Bonis Michele , Benussi Stefano
Published: February 2021

OBJECTIVES

Previous series showed the outcomes of thoracoscopic ablation of stand-alone symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) for up to 7 years of follow-up. The goal of this study was to assess the long-term durability of surgical pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) beyond 7 years.

METHODS

Fifty consecutive patients {mean age 55 [standard deviation (SD): 11.2] years, previous catheter ablation in 56%, left ventricular ejection fraction 60% (SD: 4.6), left atrium volume 65 ml (SD: 17)} with stand-alone symptomatic paroxysmal AF underwent PVI through bilateral thoracoscopy ablation between 2005 and 2014. The CHA2DS2-VASc score was ≥2 in 12 patients (24%).

RESULTS

No hospital deaths occurred. At hospital discharge all patients but 1 (2%) were in sinus rhythm (SR). Follow-up was 100% complete [mean 8.4 years (SD: 2.3), max 15]. The 8-year cumulative incidence function of AF recurrence, with death as a competing risk, on or off class I/III antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs)/electrocardioversion/re-transcatheter ablation (TCA) was 20% (SD: 5; 95% confidence interval: 10, 32); and off class I/III AADs/electrocardioversion/re-TCA was 52% (SD: 7; 95% confidence interval: 0.83, 8.02). At 8 years, the predicted prevalence of patients in SR was 87% and 53% were off class I/III AADs/electrocardioversion/re-TCA. The recurrent arrhythmia was AF in all patients except 2, who had atypical atrial flutter (4%). No predictors of AF recurrence were identified. At the last follow-up, 76% of the patients showed European Heart Rhythm Association class I. No strokes or thromboembolic events were documented and 76% of the subjects were off anticoagulation therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a considerable AF recurrence rate, our single-centre, long-term outcome of surgical PVI showed encouraging data, with the majority of patients remaining in SR, although many of them were on antiarrhythmic therapy.
The management of secondary mitral regurgitation in patients with heart failure: a joint position statement from the Heart Failure Association (HFA), European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI), European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), and European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI) of the ESC
Authors: Coats Andrew J S , Anker Stefan D , Baumbach Andreas , Alfieri Ottavio , von Bardeleben Ralph Stephan , Bauersachs Johann , Bax Jeroen J , Boveda Serge , Čelutkienė Jelena , Cleland John G , Dagres Nikolaos , Deneke Thomas , Farmakis Dimitrios , Filippatos Gerasimos , Hausleiter Jörg , Hindricks Gerhard , Jankowska Ewa A , Lainscak Mitja , Leclercq Christoph , Lund Lars H , McDonagh Theresa , Mehra Mandeep R , Metra Marco , Mewton Nathan , Mueller Christian , Mullens Wilfried , Muneretto Claudio , Obadia Jean-Francois , Ponikowski Piotr , Praz Fabien , Rudolph Volker , Ruschitzka Frank , Vahanian Alec , Windecker Stephan , Zamorano Jose Luis , Edvardsen Thor , Heidbuchel Hein , Seferovic Petar M , Prendergast Bernard
Published: February 2021

Secondary (or functional) mitral regurgitation (SMR) occurs frequently in chronic heart failure (HF) with reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, resulting from LV remodelling that prevents coaptation of the valve leaflets. Secondary mitral regurgitation contributes to progression of the symptoms and signs of HF and confers worse prognosis. The management of HF patients with SMR is complex and requires timely referral to a multidisciplinary Heart Team. Optimization of pharmacological and device therapy according to guideline recommendations is crucial. Further management requires careful clinical and imaging assessment, addressing the anatomical and functional features of the mitral valve and left ventricle, overall HF status, and relevant comorbidities. Evidence concerning surgical correction of SMR is sparse and it is doubtful whether this approach improves prognosis. Transcatheter repair has emerged as a promising alternative, but the conflicting results of current randomized trials require careful interpretation. This collaborative position statement, developed by four key associations of the European Society of Cardiology—the Heart Failure Association (HFA), European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI), European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI), and European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA)—presents an updated practical approach to the evaluation and management of patients with HF and SMR based upon a Heart Team approach.
The draft genome sequence of the grove snail Cepaea nemoralis
Authors: Saenko Suzanne V , Groenenberg Dick S J , Davison Angus , Schilthuizen Menno
Published: February 2021

Studies on the shell color and banding polymorphism of the grove snail Cepaea nemoralis and the sister taxon Cepaea hortensis have provided compelling evidence for the fundamental role of natural selection in promoting and maintaining intraspecific variation. More recently, Cepaea has been the focus of citizen science projects on shell color evolution in relation to climate change and urbanization. C. nemoralis is particularly useful for studies on the genetics of shell polymorphism and the evolution of “supergenes,” as well as evo-devo studies of shell biomineralization, because it is relatively easily maintained in captivity. However, an absence of genomic resources for C. nemoralis has generally hindered detailed genetic and molecular investigations. We therefore generated ∼23× coverage long-read data for the ∼3.5 Gb genome, and produced a draft assembly composed of 28,537 contigs with the N50 length of 333 kb. Genome completeness, estimated by BUSCO using the metazoa dataset, was 91%. Repetitive regions cover over 77% of the genome. A total of 43,519 protein-coding genes were predicted in the assembled genome, and 97.3% of these were functionally annotated from either sequence homology or protein signature searches. This first assembled and annotated genome sequence for a helicoid snail, a large group that includes edible species, agricultural pests, and parasite hosts, will be a core resource for identifying the loci that determine the shell polymorphism, as well as in a wide range of analyses in evolutionary and developmental biology, and snail biology in general.
On Spectral Properties of Compact Toeplitz Operators on Bergman Space with Logarithmically Decaying Symbol and Applications to Banded Matrices
Authors: Koïta Mahamet , Kupin Stanislas , Naboko Sergey , Touré Belco
Published: February 2021

Let $L^2({{\mathbb{D}}})$ be the space of measurable square-summable functions on the unit disk. Let $L^2_a({{\mathbb{D}}})$ be the Bergman space, that is, the (closed) subspace of analytic functions in $L^2({{\mathbb{D}}})$. $P_+$ stays for the orthogonal projection going from $L^2({{\mathbb{D}}})$ to $L^2_a({{\mathbb{D}}})$. For a function $\varphi \in L^\infty ({{\mathbb{D}}})$, the Toeplitz operator $T_\varphi : L^2_a({{\mathbb{D}}})\to L^2_a({{\mathbb{D}}})$ is defined as $$\begin{align*} & T_\varphi f=P_+\varphi f, \quad f\in L^2_a({{\mathbb{D}}}). \end{align*}$$The main result of this article are spectral asymptotics for singular (or eigen-) values of compact Toeplitz operators with logarithmically decaying symbols, that is, $$\begin{align*} & \varphi(z)=\varphi_1(e^{i\theta})\, (1+\log(1/(1-r)))^{-\gamma},\quad \gamma>0, \end{align*}$$where $z=re^{i\theta }$ and $\varphi _1$ is a continuous (or piece-wise continuous) function on the unit circle. The result is applied to the spectral analysis of banded (including Jacobi) matrices.
The Determinants of Uncertainty in International Relations
Authors: Kaplow Jeffrey M , Gartzke Erik
Published: February 2021

Uncertainty about military power is widely considered an important determinant of international conflict, but research in international relations provides relatively little guidance about the origins of uncertainty. What factors influence the validity of actors’ assessments of military capabilities? When would one expect uncertainty about military capabilities to be particularly high, or especially low? We examine a series of factors capable of explaining the sources of uncertainty in international relations, positing that the uncertainty of assessments is a function of both characteristics of the state being assessed and the overall strategic environment. We test our theory using new measures of uncertainty that we derive from analyzing publicly available estimates of national military capabilities. Our findings offer a novel set of implications both for research that relies on uncertainty as a key cause of conflict and for policymakers faced with evaluating foreign military assessments.
When Disasters Hit Civil Wars: Natural Resource Exploitation and Rebel Group Resilience
Authors: Tominaga Yasutaka , Lee Chia-yi
Published: February 2021

Existing literature on the relationship between natural disasters and conflicts provides mixed findings. In this article, we argue that whether natural disasters hurt rebel group resilience depends on their funding source and the mode of resource extraction. Rebel groups that obtain their funding from natural resources are more susceptible to natural disasters because this funding source could be easily disrupted by rapid-onset disasters. How rebel groups exploit natural resource wealth also conditions the effect of natural disasters on rebel group resilience. Rebel groups that depend on extorting resource production, despite having a seemingly stable revenue stream, are more likely to face funding cuts after a severe natural disaster. In contrast, rebel groups that rely on smuggling natural resources, due to a higher level of flexibility and mobility, are more likely to survive natural disasters. We test our arguments using data on armed groups, natural disasters, and rebel contraband, and the results of the logit models with interaction terms support our hypotheses. Our findings bridge the environmental conflict literature and the resource curse literature, and offer important policy implications.
Comparison of Narrow-angle and Wide-angle Digital Breast Tomosynthesis Systems in Clinical Practice
Authors: Winter Andrea M , Moy Linda , Gao Yiming , Bennett Debbie L
Published: February 2021

Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) is a pseudo 3D mammography imaging technique that has become widespread since gaining Food and Drug Administration approval in 2011. With this technology, a variable number of tomosynthesis projection images are obtained over an angular range between 15° and 50° for currently available clinical DBT systems. The angular range impacts various aspects of clinical imaging, such as radiation dose, scan time, and image quality, including visualization of calcifications, masses, and architectural distortion. This review presents an overview of the differences between narrow- and wide-angle DBT systems, with an emphasis on their applications in clinical practice. Comparison examples of patients imaged on both narrow- and wide-angle DBT systems illustrate these differences. Understanding the potential variable appearance of imaging findings with narrow- and wide-angle DBT systems is important for radiologists, particularly when comparison images have been obtained on a different DBT system. Furthermore, knowledge about the comparative strengths and limitations of DBT systems is needed for appropriate equipment selection.
Pyrethroid Exposure Reduces Growth and Development of Monarch Butterfly (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) Caterpillars
Authors: Krueger Annie J , Hanford Kathryn , Weissling Thomas J , Vélez Ana M , Anderson Troy D
Published: February 2021

Insecticide exposure has been identified as a contributing stressor to the decline in the North American monarch butterfly Danaus plexippus L. (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) population. Monarch toxicity data are currently limited and available data focuses on lethal endpoints. This study examined the 72-h toxicity of two pyrethroid insecticides, bifenthrin and β-cyfluthrin, and their effects on growth and diet consumption. The toxicity of bifenthrin to caterpillars was lower than β-cyfluthrin after 72 h. Survival was the most sensitive endpoint for bifenthrin, but diet consumption and caterpillar growth were significantly reduced at sublethal levels of β-cyfluthrin. Using AgDRIFT spray drift assessment, the aerial application of bifenthrin or β-cyfluthrin is predicted to pose the greatest risk to fifth-instar caterpillars, with lethal insecticide deposition up to 28 m for bifenthrin and up to 23 m for β-cyfluthrin from treated edges of fields. Low boom ground applications are predicted to reduce distances of lethal insecticide exposure to 2 m from the treated field edge for bifenthrin and β-cyfluthrin. Growth and survival of fifth-instar monarch caterpillars developing within the margins of a treated field may be significantly impacted following foliar applications of bifenthrin or β-cyfluthrin. These findings provide evidence that pyrethroid insecticides commonly used for soybean pest control are a potential risk to monarch caterpillars in agricultural landscapes.
The Second NINDS/NIBIB Consensus Meeting to Define Neuropathological Criteria for the Diagnosis of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Bieniek Kevin F , Cairns Nigel J , Crary John F , Dickson Dennis W , Folkerth Rebecca D , Keene C Dirk , Litvan Irene , Perl Daniel P , Stein Thor D , Vonsattel Jean-Paul , Stewart William , Dams-O’Connor Kristen , Gordon Wayne A , Tripodis Yorghos , Alvarez Victor E , Mez Jesse , Alosco Michael L , McKee Ann C ,   the TBI/CTE Research Group, Babcock Debra , Bellgowan Patrick , Crane Paul , Edlow Brian , Huber Bertrand Russ , Kiernan Patrick , Koroshetz Walter
Published: February 2021

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with exposure to head trauma. In 2015, a panel of neuropathologists funded by the NINDS/NIBIB defined preliminary consensus neuropathological criteria for CTE, including the pathognomonic lesion of CTE as “an accumulation of abnormal hyperphosphorylated tau (p-tau) in neurons and astroglia distributed around small blood vessels at the depths of cortical sulci and in an irregular pattern,” based on review of 25 tauopathy cases. In 2016, the consensus panel met again to review and refine the preliminary criteria, with consideration around the minimum threshold for diagnosis and the reproducibility of a proposed pathological staging scheme. Eight neuropathologists evaluated 27 cases of tauopathies (17 CTE cases), blinded to clinical and demographic information. Generalized estimating equation analyses showed a statistically significant association between the raters and CTE diagnosis for both the blinded (OR = 72.11, 95% CI = 19.5–267.0) and unblinded rounds (OR = 256.91, 95% CI = 63.6–1558.6). Based on the challenges in assigning CTE stage, the panel proposed a working protocol including a minimum threshold for CTE diagnosis and an algorithm for the assessment of CTE severity as “Low CTE” or “High CTE” for use in future clinical, pathological, and molecular studies.
How to Capture Reciprocal Communication Dynamics: Comparing Longitudinal Statistical Approaches in Order to Analyze Within- and Between-Person Effects
Authors: Thomas Fabian , Shehata Adam , Otto Lukas P , Möller Judith , Prestele Elisabeth
Published: February 2021

Choosing an appropriate statistical model to analyze reciprocal relations between individuals’ attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors over time can be challenging. Often, decisions for or against specific models are rather implicit and it remains unclear whether the statistical approach fits the theory of interest. For longitudinal models, this is problematic since within- and between-person processes can be confounded leading to wrong conclusions. Taking the perspective of the reinforcing spirals model (RSM) focusing on media effects and selection, we compare six statistical models that were recently used to analyze the RSM and show their ability to separate within- and between-person components. Using empirical data capturing respondents’ development during adolescence, we show that results vary across statistical models. Further, Monte Carlo simulations indicate that some approaches might lead to wrong conclusions if specific communication dynamics are present. In sum, we recommend using approaches that explicitly model and clearly separate within- and between-person effects.
Modulation of multiple cellular signalling pathways as targets for anti-inflammatory and anti-tumorigenesis action of Scopoletin
Authors: Sakthivel Kunnathur Murugesan , Vishnupriya Selvaraj , Priya Dharshini Loganathan Chandramani , Rasmi Rajan Radha , Ramesh Balasubramanian
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Scopoletin (6-methoxy-7-hydroxycoumarin) is a naturally occurring coumarin belonging to the category of secondary metabolites. Coumarins are commonly found in several herbs and play a prominent role in the defense mechanism of plants. Beneficial effects of scopoletin including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-microbial activity induced via numerous intracellular signalling mechanisms have been widely studied. However, anti-inflammation and anti-tumorigenesis properties of scopoletin are not well documented in the literature. Therefore, the primary focus of the present review was to highlight the plethora of research pertaining to the signalling mechanisms associated with the prevention of the progression of disease condition by scopoletin.

Key findings

Multiple signalling pathways like nuclear erythroid factor-2 (NEF2)-related factor-2 (NRF-2), apoptosis/p53 signalling, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signalling, autophagy signalling, hypoxia signalling, signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) signalling, Wnt-β signalling, Notch signalling are coupled with the anti-inflammation and anti-tumorigenesis potential of scopoletin.

Understanding crucial targets in these molecular signalling pathways may support the role of scopoletin as a promising naturally derived bioactive compound for the treatment of several diseases.
Patient Satisfaction and Physician Empathy at a Hellenic Air Force Health Service
Authors: Naoum Symeon , Konstantinidis Theocharis I , Spinthouri Maria , Mitseas Panagiotis , Sarafis Pavlos
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Patient satisfaction and physician empathy are important indicators of health care services quality. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors related to the health care users’ perception about physician empathy and their satisfaction with the services offered by the Medical Department of a Hellenic Air Force Combat Wing Health Service.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and twenty six individuals who randomly visited the Medical Department from January to February 2019 participated in the survey. The “Measuring the satisfaction of visitors to hospital outpatient clinics” questionnaire by Aletras et al. and the Greek version of the “Jefferson Scale of Patient Perceptions of Physician Empathy” questionnaire were used for data collection.

Results

High satisfaction scores were found in relation to the medical staff (mean 20.45, max 25), the examination room (mean 18.23, max 25), the nursing staff/secretarial support (mean 16.93, max 25), and the overall satisfaction (mean 17.15, max 25). The satisfaction score related to the infirmary was low (mean score 8.8, max 25). Physician empathy score was extremely high (mean 21.2, max 25). Statistically significant correlations were detected between physician empathy satisfaction score and the medical staff, nursing staff/secretarial support, and the overall satisfaction scores (P < .001).

Conclusion

Health care users reported high physician empathy and overall satisfaction scores but low infirmary satisfaction scores. The more positively that patients evaluated physician empathy, the more satisfaction that patients had with other measures.
The Potential Effects of Burn Pit Exposure on the Respiratory Tract: A Systematic Review
Authors: McLean James , Anderson Danielle , Capra Gregory , Riley Charles A
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Burn pits (BPs) have been widely used by the U.S. military for waste disposal while in conflicts abroad. Significant adverse health effects are thought to be linked to BPs, but limited data exist examining the impact on the respiratory tract. The purpose of this systematic review is to characterize these effects on both the upper respiratory tract (URT) and lower respiratory tract (LRT).

Materials and Methods

A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines on articles published from January 1, 2001, through November 2020. PubMed, EMBASE, and Ovid MEDLINE databases were queried for studies examining the effect of BPs on the URT and LRT of service members.

Results

A total of 288 articles were identified, with nine meeting inclusion criteria. Eight of the nine articles assessed the LRT, one examined the URT alone, and two examined both the URT and LRT. Outcome measures were heterogeneous across all studies, precluding meta-analysis. Patient-reported LRT diagnoses appeared to increase as exposure to BPs increased. There are very limited data assessing the impact of BP exposure on the URT. No association between BP exposure and objective measures of LRT or URT disease was identified.

Conclusion

Service members deployed to combat zones seem to report a significant increase in respiratory diseases following exposure to BPs, although definitive conclusions are limited by multiple airborne exposures and varied reporting methods. Self-reported LRT diagnoses appear to be more prevalent. There is a paucity of data on the effects of BPs on the URT. Objective measures of disease do not appear to correlate with patient reports. Prospective, long-term, and outcome-based studies are necessary to examine the effects of BPs, and other airborne hazards related to deployment, on the URT and LRT of service members.
Evolution of Earth-like extended exospheres orbiting solar-like stars
Authors: Canet Ada , Gómez de Castro Ana I
Published: February 2021

Recent observations of the Earth’s exosphere revealed the presence of an extended hydrogenic component that could reach distances beyond 40 planetary radii. Detection of similar extended exospheres around Earth-like exoplanets could reveal crucial facts in terms of habitability. The presence of these rarified hydrogen envelopes is extremely dependent on the planetary environment, dominated by the ionizing radiation and plasma winds coming from the host star. Radiation and fast wind particles ionize the uppermost layers of planetary atmospheres, especially for planets orbiting active, young stars. The survival of the produced ions in the exosphere of such planets is subject to the action of the magnetized stellar winds, particularly for unmagnetized bodies. In order to address these star–planet interactions, we have carried out numerical 2.5D ideal MHD simulations using the pluto code to study the dynamical evolution of tenuous, hydrogen-rich, Earth-like extended exospheres for an unmagnetized planet, at different stellar evolutionary stages: from a very young, solar-like star of 0.1 Gyr to a 5.0 Gyr star. For each star–planet configuration, we show that the morphology of extended Earth-like hydrogen exospheres is strongly dependent on the incident stellar winds and the produced ions present in these gaseous envelopes, showing that the ionized component of Earth-like exospheres is quickly swept by the stellar winds of young stars, leading to large bow shock formation for later stellar ages.
Accurate single-cell genotyping utilizing information from the local genome territory
Authors: Tu Kailing , Lu Keying , Zhang Qilin , Huang Wei , Xie Dan
Published: February 2021

Single-nucleotide variant (SNV) detection in the genome of single cells is affected by DNA amplification artefacts, including imbalanced alleles and early PCR errors. Existing single-cell genotyper accuracy often depends on the quality and coordination of both the target single-cell and external data, such as heterozygous profiles determined by bulk data. In most single-cell studies, information from different sources is not perfectly matched. High-accuracy SNV detection with a limited single data source remains a challenge. We developed a new variant detection method, SCOUT (Single Cell Genotyper Utilizing Information from Local Genome Territory), the greatest advantage of which is not requiring external data while base calling. By leveraging base count information from the adjacent genomic region, SCOUT classifies all candidate SNVs into homozygous, heterozygous, intermediate and low major allele SNVs according to the highest likelihood score. Compared with other genotypers, SCOUT improves the variant detection performance by 2.0–77.5% in real and simulated single-cell datasets. Furthermore, the running time of SCOUT increases linearly with sequence length; as a result, it shows 400% average acceleration in operating efficiency compared with other methods.
Lessons Learned After 760 Neurointerventions via the Upper Extremity Vasculature: Pearls and Pitfalls
Authors: Sweid Ahmad , Weinberg Joshua H , Khanna Omaditya , Das Somnath , Kim Julie , Curtis Darcy , Hammoud Batoul , El Naamani Kareem , Abbas Rawad , Majmundar Shyam , Sajja Kalyan C , Chalouhi Nohra , Saiegh Fadi Al , Mouchtouris Nikolaos , Atallah Elias , Gooch M Reid , Herial Nabeel A , Tjoumakaris Stavropoula , Romo Victor , Rosenwasser Robert H , Jabbour Pascal
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

The radial approach has been gaining more widespread use by neurointerventionalists fueled by data from the cardiology literature showing better safety and overall reduced morbidity.

OBJECTIVE

To present our institution's experience with the radial approach for neuroendovascular interventions in 614 consecutive patients who underwent a cumulative of 760 procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed and identified neuroendovascular procedures performed via the upper extremity vasculature access site.

RESULTS

Amongst 760 procedures, 34.2% (260) were therapeutic, and 65.7% (500) were nontherapeutic angiograms. Access sites were 71.5% (544) via a conventional radial artery, 27.8% (211) via a distal radial artery, 0.5% (4) via an ulnar artery, and 0.1% (1) via the brachial artery. Most of the procedures (96.9%) were performed via the right-sided (737), 2.9% (22) via the left-sided, and 0.1% (1) via a bilateral approach. Major access site complications occurred at a rate of 0.9% (7). The rate of transfemoral conversion was 4.7% (36). There was a statistically higher incidence of transfemoral conversion when repeat procedures were performed using the same access site. Also, there was no significant difference between nontherapeutic procedures performed using the right and left radial access, and conventional versus distal radial access. Procedural metrics improved after completion of 14 procedures, indicating a learning curve that should be surpassed by operators to reach optimal outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Radial artery catheterization is a safe and effective means of carrying out a wide range of neuroendovascular procedures associated with excellent clinical outcomes and an overall low rate of periprocedural complications.
A meta-analysis of studies examining associations between resonance Raman spectroscopy-assessed skin carotenoids and plasma carotenoids among adults and children
Authors: Jilcott Pitts Stephanie B , Johnson Nevin S , Wu Qiang , Firnhaber Gina C , Preet Kaur Archana , Obasohan Justice
Published: February 2021

Context

No meta-analyses appeared to have been conducted to examine overall correlations between resonance Raman spectroscopy (RRS)–assessed skin carotenoids and plasma/serum carotenoids.

Objective

To review the available literature and quantify the association between RRS-assessed skin carotenoids and plasma/serum carotenoids via a meta-analysis of observational studies.

Data Sources

To identify relevant publications, we searched the PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ProQuest, and Scopus databases in April 2020 for items combining 3 concepts: Raman spectroscopy, skin, and plasma or serum.

Data Extraction

Criteria for inclusion were publication in a peer-reviewed journal between 1990 and 2020, available in English language, and results reported as a baseline Pearson correlation coefficient. In teams of 2, the researchers independently reviewed titles and abstracts of 2212 nonduplicate papers with initial screening yielding 62 papers for full-text review, of which 15 were deemed eligible for inclusion.

Data Analysis

A random-effects model in R (version 4.0.0) “meta” package was used to analyze the correlation between RRS-assessed skin and plasma/serum carotenoids. A subgroup analysis was conducted for studies involving adults and children, respectively.

Conclusions

The 15 studies included 1155 individuals: 963 adults and 192 children. One study included children and adults. The random-effects model yielded an overall correlation of 0.68 (95%CI, 0.61–0.74; I2 = 74%; P < 0.01). The results were similar when grouped by adults and children. Among 963 adults, the correlation in the random-effects model was 0.69 (95%CI, 0.61–0.75; I2 = 78%; P < 0.01). Among 192 children, the correlation in the random-effects model was 0.66 (95%CI, 0.52– 0.77; I2 = 55%; P = 0.06). Overall, there was a positive, statistically significant correlation between RRS-assessed skin carotenoids and plasma/serum carotenoids in a pooled meta-analysis of 15 studies.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO (record number 178835)
Vraja/Braj
Authors: Gupta Vinay Kumar
Published: February 2021

Vraja is an old Sanskrit word that is now used to denote “Braj,” or the Braj region. Vraja/Braj/Brij presently denotes a particular geographical area in and around Mathura that is related to the childhood activities of Krishna (Skt. Kṛṣṇa), the most popular incarnation (avatar) of Lord Vishnu (Skt.Viṣṇu)—so important, in fact, that some of his most influential devotees consider that he is “God himself” (bhagavān svayam), as the Bhāgavata Purāṇa declares. The word vraja is derived from the Sanskrit verbal root dhātu (vraj), which means “go, walk, proceed,” implying “motion and movement.” In its early forms it can be used to designate areas where cows graze, but it may also refer to a cow pen or cattle shed. More broadly, it has to do with the culture of a semi-nomadic pastoral encampment. The modern-day term Braj, building on these meanings, denotes a conceptual as well as a geographic entity—the former related to the childhood of Krishna, the latter to the area on the banks of the River Yamuna where he is considered to have spent his childhood and youth. The language associated with this region is Brajbhasha [Skt.Brajbhāṣā], which came to have an almost canonical weight—along with Persian and Sanskrit—in Mughal times; for that reason, along with others, it came to be well known far beyond the geographical area of Braj itself. By no means is every usage of Brajbhasha to be associated with Krishna, although his imprint is often to be felt. Over the long course of time, then, we have, on the one hand, a sedimentation and localization of the term vraja (its geographical usage), and, on the other, an expansion of the term (its conceptual breadth and linguistic weight). Acknowledgement: Dr. John Stratton Hawley helped edit this article.
Vascularized Bone Grafts for Spinal Fusion—Part 2: The Rib
Authors: Reece Edward M , Agrawal Nikhil , Wagner Kathryn M , Davis Matthew J , Abu-Ghname Amjed , Shekher Rohil , Raber Michael R , Winocour Sebastian , Bohl Michael A , Ropper Alexander E
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

Pseudoarthrosis, or failure to achieve bony union, is a well-known complication of spinal fusion operations. Rates range from 5% to 40% and are influenced by both patient and technical factors. Patients who do not achieve complete fusion may experience a return or worsening of their preoperative pain. For patients with complicated pathologies, vascularized bone grafts (VBGs) have been shown to provide better outcomes than nonvascularized bone grafts (N-VBGs).

OBJECTIVE

To enhance an instrumented spinal fusion by the innovative technique presented herein that utilizes a rotated, pedicled VBG from the left eighth rib under the paraspinous musculature into the midlumbar posterolateral gutter.

METHODS

For posterior approaches, the rib can be easily accessed and rotated into the appropriate strut position. The rib is dissected out, identifying and preserving the neurovascular bundle medially. The rib is then tunneled medially and appropriately positioned as the spinal graft, with the curve providing anatomic kyphosis or lordosis, depending on the surgical location. It is then successfully fixated with plates and spinal screws.

RESULTS

In our limited experience to date, vascularized rib grafting procedures augment fusion and reduce operating room time and bleeding compared to free flap procedures. No patients have experienced complications related to these grafts.

CONCLUSION

Pedicled vascularized rib grafts can be utilized to provide the advantages of a vascularized bone flap in complicated pathologies requiring spinal fusion as far as the L2-L3 level, without the morbidity associated with free tissue transfer.