bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SIBELIUS-DARK: a galaxy catalogue of the local volume from a constrained realization simulation
Authors: McAlpine Stuart , Helly John C , Schaller Matthieu , Sawala Till , Lavaux Guilhem , Jasche Jens , Frenk Carlos S , Jenkins Adrian , Lucey John R , Johansson Peter H
Published: January 2022

We present sibelius-dark, a constrained realization simulation of the local volume to a distance of 200 Mpc from the Milky Way. sibelius-dark is the first study of the ‘Simulations Beyond The Local Universe’ (sibelius) project, which has the goal of embedding a model Local Group-like system within the correct cosmic environment. The simulation is dark-matter-only, with the galaxy population calculated using the semi-analytic model of galaxy formation, galform. We demonstrate that the large-scale structure that emerges from the sibelius constrained initial conditions matches well the observational data. The inferred galaxy population of sibelius-dark also match well the observational data, both statistically for the whole volume and on an object-by-object basis for the most massive clusters. For example, the K-band number counts across the whole sky, and when divided between the northern and southern Galactic hemispheres, are well reproduced by sibelius-dark. We find that the local volume is somewhat unusual in the wider context of ΛCDM: it contains an abnormally high number of supermassive clusters, as well as an overall large-scale underdensity at the level of ≈5 per cent relative to the cosmic mean. However, whilst rare, the extent of these peculiarities does not significantly challenge the ΛCDM model. sibelius-dark is the most comprehensive constrained realization simulation of the local volume to date, and with this paper we publicly release the halo and galaxy catalogues at z = 0, which we hope will be useful to the wider astronomy community.
Marking the shells of juvenile and adult eastern oysters, Crassostrea virginica, with the fluorochrome dye calcein and measuring growth and mortality after marking
Authors: Spires Jason E , North Elizabeth W
Published: January 2022

Techniques for positive re-identification of finfish are well developed and are used to estimate vital rates, migration patterns and stock structure. Fluorochrome dyes, like nontoxic calcein, have been used with success to mark hard parts of fish and the shells of some molluscs. Yet, despite the commercial and ecological importance of the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica, a systematic evaluation of the effectiveness of calcein for marking this species does not exist. In this study, methods that have been used for marking freshwater mussels with calcein were tested on 2-week- and 2-month-old juvenile C. virginica and on 3-year-old adult C. virginica. Individuals were immersed in 250 mg l−1 of calcein for 24 h either once (single treatment) or three times (triple treatment), and then observed to determine whether marks were visible, how long they remained visible and whether calcein influenced growth and mortality of the different age classes. Results indicated that all marked individuals were recognizable under blue light, that multiple distinct marks were possible on juveniles and that marks on juveniles could remain visible for 3.75 years. Growth of juveniles and adults treated with calcein was not significantly different from controls after 11 months. Survivorship did not differ between treated and control individuals for all treatments and ages, except the 2-month-old juvenile oysters that were immersed three times. Results indicate that calcein is an effective and safe marking technique for juvenile oysters from robust cohorts, and could be used to enhance studies of growth, mortality, larval transport and settlement in situ.
How do megaprojects influence institutional change?
Authors: Msulwa Rehema
Published: January 2022

A growing body of research emphasizes the importance of institutions for megaproject performance. Extant studies focus on understanding the characteristics of favourable institutional environments and the governance structures that projects can adopt to navigate both favourable and unfavourable environments. This paper contributes to this research by foregrounding the link between megaprojects and changes in the institutional environments within which they are embedded. Building on a case study of the Thames Tideway Tunnel—the UK’s largest water and sewerage infrastructure project since the privatization of the industry in 1989—the paper presents two distinct ways that projects can interact with formal institutions: institutional compliance and institutional change. A more holistic understanding of the latter is essential because megaprojects can reconfigure production and consumption patterns to the benefit of some and the detriment of others. By contributing to changes in the institutional environment, megaprojects can further entrench these reconfigured patterns into long-enduring formal rules and practices.
Investigating the performance of PPP in major healthcare infrastructure projects: the role of policy, institutions, and contracts
Authors: Vecchi Veronica , Cusumano Niccolò , Casalini Francesca
Published: January 2022

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, public private partnerships (PPP) can prove useful to close the healthcare investment gap and accelerate long-term recovery, by matching public and private money. Despite their extensive application in the delivery of major infrastructure projects globally, their performance remains contested. Drawing on a unique set of data of PPP contracts for healthcare investments in Italy, the paper explores the antecedents (namely, policies, institutions, and contracts), that have influenced the capacity of PPP contracts to deliver performance, measured in terms of value for money (VfM), and contract stability. Results show that although explicit policy goals have a clear contribution, VfM can benefit from competent central PPP institutions, which should play a hands-on role in the planning, design, and project management activities. At the same time, centralised PPP units, if not combined with local competent authorities and strong governance mechanisms, may increase the risk of contract renegotiation.
Between a Rock and a Hard Polytomy: Phylogenomics of the Rock-Dwelling Mbuna Cichlids of Lake Malaŵi
Authors: Scherz Mark D , Masonick Paul , Meyer Axel , Hulsey C Darrin
Published: January 2022

Whole genome sequences are beginning to revolutionize our understanding of phylogenetic relationships. Yet, even whole genome sequences can fail to resolve the evolutionary history of the most rapidly radiating lineages, where incomplete lineage sorting, standing genetic variation, introgression, and other factors obscure the phylogenetic history of the group. To overcome such challenges, one emerging strategy is to integrate results across different methods. Most such approaches have been implemented on reduced representation genomic data sets, but whole genomes should provide the maximum possible evidence approach. Here, we test the ability of single nucleotide polymorphisms extracted from whole genome resequencing data, implemented in an integrative genomic approach, to resolve key nodes in the phylogeny of the mbuna, rock-dwelling cichlid fishes of Lake Malaŵi, which epitomize the phylogenetic intractability that often accompanies explosive lineage diversification. This monophyletic radiation has diversified at an unparalleled rate into several hundred species in less than 2 million years. Using an array of phylogenomic methods, we consistently recovered four major clades of mbuna, but a large basal polytomy among them. Although introgression between clades apparently contributed to the challenge of phylogenetic reconstruction, reduction of the data set to nonintrogressed sites still did not help to resolve the basal polytomy. On the other hand, relationships among six congeneric species pairs were resolved without ambiguity, even in one case where existing data led us to predict that resolution would be difficult. We conclude that the bursts of diversification at the earliest stages of the mbuna radiation may be phylogenetically unresolvable, but other regions of the tree are phylogenetically clearly supported. Integration of multiple phylogenomic approaches will continue to increase confidence in relationships inferred from these and other whole-genome data sets. [Incomplete lineage sorting; introgression; linkage disequilibrium; multispecies coalescence; rapid radiation; soft polytomy.]
A Conserved Hypothetical Gene Is Required but Not Sufficient for Ptr ToxC Production inPyrenophora tritici-repentis
Authors: Shi Gongjun , Kariyawasam Gayan , Liu Sanzhen , Leng Yueqiang , Zhong Shaobin , Ali Shaukat , Moolhuijzen Paula , Moffat Caroline S. , Rasmussen Jack B. , Friesen Timothy L. , Faris Justin D. , Liu Zhaohui
Published: January 2022

The fungus Pyrenophora tritici-repentis causes tan spot, an important foliar disease of wheat worldwide. The fungal pathogen produces three necrotrophic effectors, namely Ptr ToxA, Ptr ToxB, and Ptr ToxC to induce necrosis or chlorosis in wheat. Both Ptr ToxA and Ptr ToxB are proteins, and their encoding genes have been cloned. Ptr ToxC was characterized as a low–molecular weight molecule 20 years ago but the one or more genes controlling its production in P. tritici-repentis are unknown. Here, we report the genetic mapping, molecular cloning, and functional analysis of a fungal gene that is required for Ptr ToxC production. The genetic locus controlling the production of Ptr ToxC, termed ToxC, was mapped to a subtelomeric region using segregating biparental populations, genome sequencing, and association analysis. Additional marker analysis further delimited ToxC to a 173-kb region. The predicted genes in the region were examined for presence/absence polymorphism in different races and isolates leading to the identification of a single candidate gene. Functional validation showed that this gene was required but not sufficient for Ptr ToxC production, thus it is designated as ToxC1. ToxC1 encoded a conserved hypothetical protein likely located on the vacuole membrane. The gene was highly expressed during infection, and only one haplotype was identified among 120 isolates sequenced. Our work suggests that Ptr ToxC is not a protein and is likely produced through a cascade of biosynthetic pathway. The identification of ToxC1 is a major step toward revealing the Ptr ToxC biosynthetic pathway and studying its molecular interactions with host factors.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Identification of Putative SDHI Target Site Mutations in the SDHB, SDHC, and SDHD Subunits of the Grape Powdery Mildew Pathogen Erysiphe necator
Authors: Stergiopoulos Ioannis , Aoun Nathalie , van Huynh Que , Neill Tara , Lowder Sarah R. , Newbold Chelsea , Cooper Monica L. , Ding Shunping , Moyer Michelle M. , Miles Timothy D. , Oliver Charlotte L. , Úrbez-Torres José Ramón , Mahaffee Walter F.
Published: January 2022

Succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHIs) are fungicides used in control of numerous fungal plant pathogens, including Erysiphe necator, the causal agent of grapevine powdery mildew (GPM). Here, the sdhb, sdhc, and sdhd genes of E. necator were screened for mutations that may be associated with SDHI resistance. GPM samples were collected from 2017 to 2020 from the U.S. states of California, Oregon, Washington, and Michigan, and the Canadian province of British Columbia. Forty-five polymorphisms were identified in the three sdh genes, 17 of which caused missense mutations. Of these, the SDHC-p.I244V substitution was shown in this study to reduce sensitivity of E. necator to boscalid and fluopyram, whereas the SDHC-p.G25R substitution did not affect SDHI sensitivity. Of the other 15 missense mutations, the SDHC-p.H242R substitution was shown in previous studies to reduce sensitivity of E. necator toward boscalid, whereas the equivalents of the SDHB-p.H242L, SDHC-p.A83V, and SDHD-p.I71F substitutions were shown to reduce sensitivity to SDHIs in other fungi. Generally, only a single amino acid substitution was present in the SDHB, SDHC, or SDHD subunit of E. necator isolates, but missense mutations putatively associated with SDHI resistance were widely distributed in the sampled areas and increased in frequency over time. Finally, isolates that had decreased sensitivity to boscalid or fluopyram were identified but with no or only the SDHC-p.G25R amino acid substitution present in SDHB, SDHC, and SDHD subunits. This suggests that target site mutations probably are not the only mechanism conferring resistance to SDHIs in E. necator.
Whole-Genome Resources and Species-Level Taxonomic Validation of 89 Plant-Pathogenic Xanthomonas Strains Isolated from Various Host Plants
Authors: Tambong James T. , Xu Renlin , Cuppels Diane , Chapados Julie , Gerdis Suzanne , Eyres Jackson , Koziol Adam , Dettman Jeremy
Published: January 2022

Bacterial spot disease caused by Xanthomonas spp. is a global threat to tomato and pepper plants. A recent classification of these pathogens indicated the need for a diverse dataset of whole-genome resources. We report whole-genome resources of 89 Xanthomonas strains isolated from Canada (n = 44), the United States (n = 29), Argentina (n = 4), Brazil (n = 3), Costa Rica (n = 3), New Zealand (n = 1), Australia (n = 1), Mexico (n = 1), Taiwan (n = 1), Thailand (n = 1), and unknown (n = 1). Of these strains, 48 were previously identified to species-level based on nongenome-based approaches while 41 strains were classified only at the genus level. The average coverage of the sequencing reads was 103×. The draft genome sizes ranged from 4.53 to 5.46 Mbp with a G + C content of 63.53 to 67.78% and comprised 4,233-5,178 protein-coding sequences. Using average nucleotide identity (ANI) and genome-based DNA-DNA hybridization (gDDH) values, the taxonomic classifications were validated for 38 of the 48 strains previously assigned to species level using other methods. Ten strains previously identified as Xanthomonas campestris, X. axonopodis, X. vasicola, and X. arboricola were incorrectly assigned, and new species-level delineations are proposed. Data from ANI, gDDH, and pangenome phylogeny of shared protein families were used to assign the 41 strains, previously identified only to genus level, into five distinct species: X. euvesicatoria (pv. euvesicatoria or pv. perforans), X. hortorum pv. gardneri, X. vesicatoria, X. campestris, and X. arboricola. These 89 whole-genome sequences of Xanthomonas strains, the majority (49.4%) of which are from Canada, could be useful resources in our understanding of the global population structure and evolution of these pathogens.
Baseline Sensitivity and Potential Resistance Mechanisms for Fusarium pseudograminearum to Fludioxonil
Authors: Zhou Feng , Cui Ye-Xian , Wang Bing-Li , Zhou Yu-Dong , Li Shi-Wang , Zhang Yan-Tong , Zhang Ke , Chen Ze-Yuan , Hu Hai-Yan , Li Cheng-Wei
Published: January 2022

Fusarium crown rot (FCR), which is caused by Fusarium pseudograminearum, is one of the most important diseases affecting wheat production in the Huanghuai wheat-growing region of China. Although the phenylpyrrole fungicide fludioxonil is known to have a broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of plant pathogens, including F. pseudograminearum, it has not yet been registered for the control of FCR in China, and further research is needed to assess the biological characteristics and molecular mechanisms associated with fludioxonil resistance, and especially the potential for highly resistant isolates to emerge. The current study demonstrated that the baseline fludioxonil sensitivity of 61 F. pseudograminearum isolates collected from the Henan province of China during the summers of 2019 to 2021 conformed to a unimodal distribution with a mean effective concentration for 50% inhibition (EC50) value of 0.021 ± 0.003 μg/ml, which indicated that none of the isolates exhibited natural resistance to fludioxonil. Nevertheless, four fludioxonil-resistant mutants were attained after repeated exposure to fludioxonil under laboratory conditions. All resistant mutants exhibited significantly lower growth rates on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and lower levels of sporulation and pathogenicity in wheat seedlings. In addition, the resistant mutants also exhibited less growth on PDA amended with either 0.5 M mannitol, 0.5 M glucose, 0.5 M MgCl2, or 0.5 M NaCl, which indicated that they had greater sensitivity to osmotic stress. Molecular analysis of the proposed fludioxonil target protein FpOs1 indicated that the predicted sequences of the resistant mutants contained none of the characteristic amino acid changes previously associated with fludioxonil resistance in other species. Further investigation via quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that expression of the FpOs1 gene was significantly altered in the resistant mutants in both the absence and presence of fludioxonil. Meanwhile, plate assays found evidence of cross-resistance between fludioxonil and cyprodinil, as well as with the triazole fungicides tebuconazole and difenoconazole, but not with other commonly used fungicides including prochloraz, fluazinam, and carbendazim. Taken together, these results provide new insights into the mechanism and biological characteristics associated with fludioxonil resistance in F. pseudograminearum and indicate that fludioxonil could provide effective and sustained control of FCR during wheat production.
Transfusion-Associated Delirium in Children: No Difference Between Short Storage Versus Standard Issue RBCs
Authors: Traube Chani , Tucci Marisa , Nellis Marianne E. , Avery K. Leslie , McQuillen Patrick S. , Fitzgerald Julie C. , Muszynski Jennifer A. , Cholette Jill M. , Schwarz Adam J. , Stalets Erika L. , Quaid Maureen A. , Hanson Sheila J. , Lacroix Jacques , Reeder Ron W. , Spinella Philip C. ,   for the Transfusion-Associated Delirium ABC-PICU Study Group
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVES:

Primary objective is to determine if transfusion of short storage RBCs compared with standard issue RBCs reduced risk of delirium/coma in critically ill children. Secondary objective is to assess if RBC transfusion was independently associated with delirium/coma.

DESIGN:

This study was performed in two stages. First, we compared patients receiving either short storage or standard RBCs in a multi-institutional prospective randomized controlled trial. Then, we compared all transfused patients in the randomized controlled trial with a single-center cohort of nontransfused patients matched for confounders of delirium/coma.

SETTING:

Twenty academic PICUs who participated in the Age of Transfused Blood in Critically Ill Children trial.

PATIENTS:

Children 3 days to 16 years old who were transfused RBCs within the first 7 days of admission.

INTERVENTIONS:

Subjects were randomized to either short storage RBC study arm (defined as RBCs stored for up to seven days) or standard issue RBC study arm. In addition, subjects were screened for delirium prior to transfusion and every 12 hours after transfusion for up to 3 days.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Primary outcome measure was development of delirium/coma within 3 days of initial transfusion. Additional outcome measures were dose-response relationship between volume of RBCs transfused and delirium/coma, and comparison of delirium/coma rates between transfused patients and individually matched nontransfused patients. We included 146 subjects in the stage I analysis; 69 were randomized to short storage RBCs and 77 to standard issue. There was no significant difference in delirium/coma development between study arms (79.5% vs 70.1%; p = 0.184). In the stage II analysis, adjusted odds for delirium in the transfused cohort was more than eight-fold higher than in the nontransfused matched cohort, even after controlling for hemoglobin (adjusted odds ratio, 8.9; CI, 2.8–28.4; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

RBC transfusions (and not anemia) are independently associated with increased odds of subsequent delirium/coma. However, storage age of RBCs does not affect delirium risk.
Lung- and Diaphragm-Protective Ventilation by Titrating Inspiratory Support to Diaphragm Effort: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: de Vries Heder J. , Jonkman Annemijn H. , de Grooth Harm J. , Duitman Jan Willem. , Girbes Armand R. J. , Ottenheijm Coen A. C. , Schultz Marcus J. , van de Ven Peter M. , Zhang Yingrui , de Man Angelique M. E. , Tuinman Pieter R. , Heunks Leo M. A.
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVES:

Lung- and diaphragm-protective ventilation is a novel concept that aims to limit the detrimental effects of mechanical ventilation on the diaphragm while remaining within limits of lung-protective ventilation. The premise is that low breathing effort under mechanical ventilation causes diaphragm atrophy, whereas excessive breathing effort induces diaphragm and lung injury. In a proof-of-concept study, we aimed to assess whether titration of inspiratory support based on diaphragm effort increases the time that patients have effort in a predefined “diaphragm-protective” range, without compromising lung-protective ventilation.

DESIGN:

Randomized clinical trial.

SETTING:

Mixed medical-surgical ICU in a tertiary academic hospital in the Netherlands.

PATIENTS:

Patients (n = 40) with respiratory failure ventilated in a partially-supported mode.

INTERVENTIONS:

In the intervention group, inspiratory support was titrated hourly to obtain transdiaphragmatic pressure swings in the predefined “diaphragm-protective” range (3–12 cm H2O). The control group received standard-of-care.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Transdiaphragmatic pressure, transpulmonary pressure, and tidal volume were monitored continuously for 24 hours in both groups. In the intervention group, more breaths were within “diaphragm-protective” range compared with the control group (median 81%; interquartile range [64–86%] vs 35% [16–60%], respectively; p < 0.001). Dynamic transpulmonary pressures (20.5 ± 7.1 vs 18.5 ± 7.0 cm H2O; p = 0.321) and tidal volumes (7.56 ± 1.47 vs 7.54 ± 1.22 mL/kg; p = 0.961) were not different in the intervention and control group, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

Titration of inspiratory support based on patient breathing effort greatly increased the time that patients had diaphragm effort in the predefined “diaphragm-protective” range without compromising tidal volumes and transpulmonary pressures. This study provides a strong rationale for further studies powered on patient-centered outcomes.
Surgically Treated Neuroma in Upper Extremity: Patient Characteristics and Factors Influencing Outcome of Surgery
Authors: Nyman Erika , Dahlin Emma , Gudinge Hanna , Dahlin Lars B.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Neuroma formation occurs after inappropriately or untreated nerve injuries. Patients surgically treated for neuroma were characterized and factors influencing outcome evaluated.

Methods:

In a retrospective observational study, data from medical records of patients surgically treated for neuroma in two Swedish regions were analyzed.

Results:

In 115 included patients (median age at surgery 45 years [IQR 29–55]), 55% (62/115) were men and 49% (56/115) were manual laborers. Most affected nerves were in hand or lower forearm (76/115, 66%). Smoking habits, affected nerves, and cause/mechanism(s) of injury differentiated the sexes. More motor nerve injuries were observed among women and more mixed nerve injuries among men. Iatrogenic injuries, such as injury to superficial sensory radial nerve or thenar branch of median nerve, more frequently affected women (27/52, 52%). Pain, the dominant preoperative symptom, improved after surgery. Overall, surgery cured/improved 79 of 115 (69%) patients. Patients treated with repair or reconstruction (n = 62) were younger than patients given neuroma transpositions (n = 43) and sensory nerve injuries were more often treated by transposition. No difference in outcome was observed concerning patient characteristics or surgical methods. Most patients had one surgery (102/115, 89%). No specific risk factors for a re-operation could be identified, but need for re-operation(s) was associated with poor outcome, even after repeated surgery.

Conclusions:

Patients with a neuroma benefit from surgery with significantly reduced pain, but symptoms may remain. Surgical method does not affect outcome. Preventing neuroma formation is crucial, presently highlighted in a high frequency of iatrogenic injuries, especially among women.
Organ Donation Decision in Families With Brain-Dead Patients
Authors: Rafii Forough , Rahimi Sara
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim:

Organ donation decision is a complicated process for bereaved families; however, its attributes and associated factors are not clear. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to analyze the concept of organ donation decision in families with brain-dead patients.

Methods:

Concept analysis was performed using Rodgers' evolutionary method. For this purpose, PubMed, OVID, Scopus, and ProQuest databases were searched in English from 1985 to 2019. In total, 54 articles were analyzed using the thematic analysis to identify the attributes, antecedents, and consequences of the concept. The validity of the data was provided by examining the analysis process by 2 independent researchers.

Findings/Conclusions:

Organ donation decision in these families is a complicated and conflicting process of vicarious decision-making that begins with an organ donation request: a difficult, painful, and critical experience that requires extensive interpersonal interactions and is ultimately influenced by various factors, leading to the acceptance or refusal. The antecedents include deceased-related factors, family-related factors, the quality of organ donation request, and the quality of health care professionals' interactions. The consequences include the positive outcomes (grief solace, gift of life, and promoting human values) and negative outcomes (ambiguity, doubt and regret, and psychological inconsistency). The results of this concept analysis led to a better understanding of the complexity of an organ donation decision in these families. In this way, in addition to knowledge development, it assists the health care staff to support families in making the organ donation decision.

Implications for Case Management Practice:

Although case managers rarely participate in organ donation, they definitely need to understand the concepts related to organ donation decision while advocating for the patients or families. The results of this concept analysis can broaden the case managers' and other health care professionals' knowledge about families' organ donation decision and help them take more effective interventions for management of this process. Case managers and the health care team can use the information of this article for informing families about brain death, negotiating with families for organ donation, preparing information, and caring and facilitating the families in making the clear and unconflicted decision.
Cognitive, Psychiatric, and Motor Symptoms–Based Algorithmic Approach to Differentiate Among Various Types of Dementia Syndromes
Authors: Magdy Rehab , Hussein Mona
Published: January 2022

It may be difficult to distinguish among the various dementia syndromes due to the overlap in many common clinical features across the dementias. Accurate diagnosis of dementia type is increasingly important in an era when promising disease-modifying agents can be marketed soon. In this review, we outline a clinical algorithmic approach particularly tailored to the major forms of dementia in the clinic and refined from our accumulated experience of these patients. We first present an algorithmic approach for patients presenting with predominant deficits in episodic memory, executive function, language, visuospatial, and apraxia. We then consider types of dementia that mainly cause behavioral and psychiatric changes. Finally, we illustrate clinical pearls regarding motor deficits as key associations of each syndrome.
Visual Outcomes and Prognostic Factors for Pediatric Open Globe Injuries
Authors: Bruce Carleigh N. , Beal Casey J. , Zou Baiming
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Open globe injuries (OGIs) in children can be visually devastating traumas and are a common cause of unilateral blindness in children. Three commonly used ocular trauma scores (Ocular Trauma Score [OTS], Pediatric Penetrating Ocular Trauma Score [POTS], and Toddler/Infant Ocular Trauma Score [TOTS]) can be used to help predict visual outcomes in ocular injuries. Each has strengths and weaknesses, but these scores have not been studied extensively in the pediatric population.

Methods

The medical records of all pediatric patients presenting at a single institution with OGIs from 2011 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Initial clinical presentation and subsequent examinations were reviewed. The 3 trauma scoring systems were applied to patient data to determine the effectiveness at predicting final visual acuity (VA).

Results

A total of 15 patients met inclusion criteria. The mean age at presentation was 6.97 years. Seven of 15 (47%) of the patients had a final VA of 20/40 or better. The OTS was applied to 8 of 15 patients, as the OTS requires initial VA, which could not be obtained in 7 patients. The POTS and TOTS were applied to all 15 patients. The POTS, TOTS, and OTS were all significantly correlated to final VA. Incidence of relative afferent pupillary defect and more posterior zone of injury were correlated with poorer visual outcomes.

Conclusions

All 3 available ocular trauma scores were effective at predicting final VA in our cohort of pediatric patients with OGIs even outside of the age ranges for which they have been created. Of all the factors included in the scores, relative afferent pupillary defect and zone of injury were most closely correlated with poor final VA.
The Safety of High-Dose Intranasal Fentanyl in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Anderson Tucker , Harrell Camden , Snider Mark , Kink Rudy
Published: January 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to determine if the use of intranasal (IN) fentanyl in the pediatric emergency department of 2 to 5 μg/kg at doses greater than 100 μg is associated with adverse events in pediatric patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of patients receiving IN fentanyl at an urban, tertiary care emergency department in Memphis, TN, from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2017. All adverse events documented through the hospital's voluntary safety reporting system involving IN fentanyl were reviewed to determine patient outcomes.

Results

A total of 3205 patients received greater than 100 μg of IN fentanyl during the study period from 2011 to 2017. The average (SD) patient age was 13.7 (2.65) years, ranging from 5 to 18 years. The mean (SD) initial dose was 162 (30) μg ranging from 102 to 265 μg (2 doses were given greater than 200 μg in the study period). Initial average (SD) dose for weight was 2.62 (0.5) μg/kg. A total of 13 adverse events were documented, with only 3 occurring at doses greater than 100 μg. No patients required the reversal agent naloxone or invasive respiratory support.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study using doses greater than 100 μg of IN fentanyl in a pediatric population. Our results indicate that fentanyl can be safely administered at doses of greater than 100 μg without any clinically significant adverse outcomes observed for 7 years of use. It is our hope that this information will increase utilization of IN fentanyl for treatment of acute pain in emergency departments and in the prehospital setting.
Sudden Death in High School Athletes
Authors: Cools Katherine Shoush , Crowder Melissa D. , Kucera Kristen L. , Thomas Leah C. , Hosokawa Yuri , Casa Douglas J. , Gasim Adil , Lee Sang , Schade Willis Tina M.
Published: January 2022

Athletes with sickle cell trait (SCT) have up to a 37-fold increased risk of exercise-related death. Exertional collapse associated with sickle cell trait (ECAST) is uncommon but can lead to exercise-related death due to exertional sickling. We present a case series of fatal ECAST in high school athletes aged 14 to 16 years. All 3 athletes experienced collapse during practice sessions with muscle pain or weakness. Upon evaluation at the hospital, the athletes had a significant metabolic acidosis that did not respond as expected to fluid resuscitation. Admitting diagnoses for the athletes included exertional heat stroke or dehydration. All 3 athletes had profound rhabdomyolysis leading to acute renal failure, worsening metabolic acidosis, and hyperkalemia. They rapidly progressed to disseminated intravascular coagulation, multiorgan system failure, and death. The autopsies of all 3 athletes showed extensive sickle cell vaso-occlusion involving the spleen liver, and muscles. Final clinical and pathologic diagnosis supported ECAST with fatal exertional rhabdomyolysis. Exertional collapse associated with sickle cell trait is an uncommon but potentially deadly condition that is often underrecognized or misdiagnosed as exertional heat stroke. The development of ECAST is thought to be multifactorial with exercise intensity, recent illness, and exercising conditions (ie, heat and altitude). Prevention should be the primary goal for athletes with SCT through exercise modification, education of precipitation factors, and cessation of exercise with recent illness. Athletes with suspected ECAST should undergo aggressive resuscitation with a low threshold for early transfer to a tertiary care facility for further management and potential hemodialysis.
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Sartori Laura F. , Balamuth Fran
Published: January 2022

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a syndrome of abnormal immune response after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection that can result in organ dysfunction including severe cardiovascular compromise in children. Increased evidence supports a clinical and laboratory profile in MIS-C distinct from Kawasaki disease, with MIS-C typically occurring in older children and with more prominent gastrointestinal and neurologic symptoms, as well as increased inflammation, lymphopenia, and cardiac injury on laboratory testing. However, high-level evidence regarding best practices for treatment and long-term outcomes in MIS-C is limited.
Relationship of Blood Pressure and White Matter Hyperintensity Burden With Level of and Change in Cognition in Older Black Adults
Authors: Lamar Melissa , Fleischman Debra A. , Leurgans Sue E. , Aggarwal Neelum , Yu Lei , Kim Namhee , Poole Victoria , Han S. Duke , Arfanakis Konstantinos , Barnes Lisa L.
Published: January 2022

Objective

Elevations in blood pressure (BP) and associated white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are chronic comorbid conditions among older Black adults. We investigated whether WMHs modify the association between late-life BP and cognition within older Black adults.

Methods

A total of 167 Black adults (age, ~75 years; without dementia at baseline) participating in neuroimaging studies at the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center were evaluated for BP markers of cardiovascular health, including systolic BP, diastolic BP, pulse pressure, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and hypertension, and were assessed for global and domain-specific cognition at baseline and annually for up to 8 years. WMHs adjusted for intracranial volume were quantified at baseline.

Results

Models adjusted for relevant confounders and the interaction of these variables with time revealed differential associations between BP markers and baseline cognition; however, only elevated diastolic BP predicted faster cognitive, that is, episodic memory, decline (estimate = −0.002, standard error = 0.0009, p = .002). Although WMH burden did not modify the association between diastolic BP and episodic memory decline, it did interact with diastolic BP to lower episodic memory at baseline (estimate = −0.051, standard error = 0.012, p = .0001); that is, greater WMHs combined with higher diastolic BP resulted in the lowest baseline episodic memory scores. A similar profile was noted for WMHs, MAP, and baseline episodic memory. Hypertension was neither associated with cognition nor modified by WMH burden after multiple comparisons correction.

Conclusion

Late-life diastolic BP was associated with faster rates of episodic memory decline in older Black adults; together with higher WMH burden, it (and MAP) lowered the point at which individuals begin their course of decline toward pathological aging.
Rate of formation of caustics in heavy particles advected by turbulence
Authors: Bhatnagar Akshay , Pandey Vikash , Perlekar Prasad , Mitra Dhrubaditya
Published: January 2022

The rate of collision and the relative velocities of the colliding particles in turbulent flows are a crucial part of several natural phenomena, e.g. rain formation in warm clouds and planetesimal formation in protoplanetary discs. The particles are often modelled as passive, but heavy and inertial. Within this model, large relative velocities emerge due to formation of singularities (caustics) of the gradient matrix of the velocities of the particles. Using extensive direct numerical simulations of heavy particles in both two (direct and inverse cascade) and three-dimensional turbulent flows, we calculate the rate of formation of caustics,

J

as a function of the Stokes number (

St

). The best approximation to our data is

J
∼
exp
⁡
(
−
C

/

St

)

, in the limit

St

→
0

where

C

is a non-universal constant.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Scaling the turbulence edifice (part 2)’.
Energy balance for forced two-dimensional incompressible ideal fluid flow
Authors: Lopes Filho M. C. , Nussenzveig Lopes H. J.
Published: January 2022

Cheskidov
et al.
(2016
Commun. Math. Phys.
348
, 129–143. (
doi:10.1007/s00220-016-2730-8
)) proved that physically realizable weak solutions of the incompressible two-dimensional Euler equations on a torus conserve kinetic energy. Physically realizable weak solutions are those that can be obtained as limits of vanishing viscosity. The key hypothesis was boundedness of the initial vorticity in

L
p

,

p
>
1

. In this work, we extend their result, by adding forcing to the flow.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Scaling the turbulence edifice (part 2)’.
Applied Bioinformatics and Public Health Microbiology: challenges, discoveries and innovations during a pandemic
Authors: Cunningham-Oakes Edward , Trivett Hannah
Published: January 2022

The eighth Applied Bioinformatics and Public Health Microbiology (ABPHM) conference showcased the recent acceleration of bioinformatic approaches used in public health settings. This included approaches for the surveillance of infectious diseases, understanding microbial evolution and diversity and pathogen interactions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the importance of data-driven approaches used by scientists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Identification of thresholds on population density for understanding transmission of COVID-19
Authors: Jamal Yusuf , Gangwar Mayank , Usmani Moiz , Adams Alison , Wu Chang-Yu , Nguyen Thanh Huong , Colwell Rita , Jutla Antarpreet
Published: January 2022

Pathways of transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) disease in the human population are still emerging. However, empirical observations suggest that dense human settlements are the most adversely impacted, corroborating a broad consensus that human-to-human transmission is a key mechanism for the rapid spread of this disease. Here, using logistic regression techniques, estimates of threshold levels of population density were computed corresponding to the incidence in the human population. Regions with population densities greater than 3000 person per square mile in the United States have about 95% likelihood to get infected with COVID-19. Since case numbers of COVID-19 dynamically changed each day until November 30, 2020, ca. 4% of US counties were at 50% or higher risk of COVID-19 transmission. While threshold on population density is not the sole indicator for predictability of coronavirus in human population, yet it is one of the key variables on understanding and rethinking human settlement in urban landscapes.

Plane language Summary

Population density is certainly one of the key factors influencing the transmission of infectious diseases like COVID-19. It is approximated that in continental United States, population density of 1192 per square mile and higher presents 50% probability of getting infected with COVID-19.

Key Points

Based on data from the USA, the population density of 1192 persons per square mile represented a 50% or higher probability of risk of transmission of COVID-19.

About 35 counties in the USA are at very high risk of transmission potential (95% or higher) for COVID-19.

Analysis shows the vulnerability of urban towns to respiratory infectious disease
Serum Neutralizing Activity of mRNA-1273 Against the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Lee Diana , Avena Laura E. , Berrueta Daniela Montes , Koch Matthew , Choi Angela , Oestreicher Judy , Hillebrand William , Zhou Honghong , Pajon Rolando , Carfi Andrea , Edwards Darin , Wu Kai
Published: January 2022

The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant has led to growing concerns of increased transmissibility and escape of both natural and vaccine-induced immunity. In this analysis, sera from adult participants in a phase 2 clinical study (NCT04405076) were tested for neutralizing activity against B.1.1.529 after a 2-dose (100 µg) mRNA-1273 primary vaccination series and after a 50-µg mRNA-1273 booster dose. Results from this preliminary analysis show that 1 month after completing the primary series, mRNA-1273-elicited serum neutralization of B.1.1.529 was below the lower limit of quantification; however, neutralization was observed at 2 weeks after the mRNA-1273 booster dose, although at a reduced level relative to wild-type SARS-CoV-2 (D614G) and lower than that observed against D614G at 1 month after the primary series.
Genome surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants and their role in pathogenesis focusing on second wave of COVID-19 in India
Authors: Sarkar Poulomi , Banerjee Sarthak , Saha Sarbar Ali , Mitra Pralay , Sarkar Siddik
Published: January 2022

India had witnessed unprecedented surge in SARS-CoV-2 infections and the dire consequences during the second wave of COVID-19, but the detailed report of the epidemiological based spatiotemporal incidences of the disease is missing. Here in, we have applied various statistical methods like correlation, hierarchical clustering to know the pattern of pathogenesis of the circulating VoCs. B.1.617.1 (Kappa) was the predominant VoC during the early phase of second wave. Delta (B.1.617.2) or Delta-like (AY.x) VoC constitutes majority (>90.17) of the cases during the peak of second wave. The correlation plot showed Delta/Delta-like lineage is inversely correlated with other lineages including B.1.617.1 (kappa), B.1.1.7, B.1, B.1.36.29 and B.1.36. Delta/Delta-like surge coincided with second wave whereas all other lineages (B.1.617.1, B.1.36.29, etc.) occurred during the prior phase of the second wave. The spatiotemporal analysis showed that most of the Indian states were affected during the peak of the second wave due to delta surge and fall under the same cluster. The second cluster populated mostly by north-eastern states and islands of India were minimally affected. The presence of signature mutations (T478K, D950N, E156G) along with L452K, D614G and P681R within the spike protein of Delta or Delta-like might cause elevation in host cell attachment, increased transmission and altered antigenicity which in due course of time has replaced the other circulating variants. The timely assessment of new VoCs will provide a rationale for updating the diagnostic, vaccine development by medical industries and decision making by various agencies including government, educational institutions, and corporate industries.
Polygenic predisposition to venous thromboembolism is associated with increased COVID-19 positive testing rates
Authors: Minnier Jessica , Huffman Jennifer E , Gao Lina , Joseph Jacob , Wan Emily S , Wu Wen-Chih , Suzuki Ayako , Pathak Gita A , Polimanti Renato , Arjomandi Mehrdad , Chang Kyong-Mi , Garcon Helene , Verma Anurag , Ho Yuk-Lam , Meigs James B , Cho Kelly , Bonomo Robert A , Gorman Bryan R , Pyarajan Saiju , Gatsby Elise , Rajeevan Nallakkandi , Lynch Kristine E , Lynch Julie A , Zekavat Seyedeh Maryam , Natarajan Pradeep , Madison Cecelia J , Zhou Jin J , Jhala Darshana N , Donskey Curtis J , McGeary John E , Reaven Peter D , Sun Yan V , Freiberg Mat , Gelernter Joel , Petersen Jeffrey M , Hung Adriana , Huang Rose DL , Madduri Ravi K , Dalal Sharvari , Wells Quinn S , Liao Katherine P , Wilson Peter W.F. , Tsao Philip S , O’Donnell Christopher J , Gaziano John M ,   VA Million Veteran Program, Hauger Richard L , Iyengar Sudha K. , Luoh Shiuh-Wen
Published: January 2022

Genetic predisposition to venous thrombosis may impact COVID-19 infection and its sequelae. Participants in the ongoing prospective cohort study, Million Veteran Program (MVP), who were tested for COVID-19, with European ancestry, were evaluated for associations with polygenic venous thromboembolic risk, Factor V Leiden mutation (FVL) (rs6025) and prothrombin gene 3’ -UTR mutation (F2 G20210A)(rs1799963), and their interactions. Logistic regression models assessed genetic associations with VTE diagnosis, COVID-19 (positive) testing rates and outcome severity (modified WHO criteria), and post-test conditions, adjusting for outpatient anticoagulation medication usage, age, sex, and genetic principal components. 108,437 out of 464,961 European American MVP participants were tested for COVID-19 with 9786 (9%) positive. PRS(VTE), FVL,F2G20210A were not significantly associated with the propensity of being tested for COVID-19. PRS(VTE) was significantly associated with a positive COVID-19 test inF5wild type (WT) individuals (OR 1.05; 95% CI [1.02-1.07]), but not in FVL carriers (0.97, [0.91-1.94]). There was no association with severe outcome for FVL,F2G20210A or PRS(VTE). Outpatient anticoagulation usage in the two years prior to testing was associated with worse clinical outcomes. PRS(VTE) was associated with prevalent VTE diagnosis among both FVL carriers orF5wild type individuals as well as incident VTE in the two years prior to testing. Increased genetic propensity for VTE in the MVP was associated with increased COVID-19 positive testing rates, suggesting a role of coagulation in the initial steps of COVID-19 infection.

Key Points

Increased genetic predisposition to venous thrombosis is associated with increased COVID-19 positive testing rates.

PRS for VTE further risk stratifies factor V Leiden carriers regarding their VTE risk.