bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel 3-Dimensional Printing Fabrication Approach for the Production of Pediatric Airway Models
Authors: Weatherall Andrew D. , Rogerson Matthew D. , Quayle Michelle R. , Cooper Michael G. , McMenamin Paul G. , Adams Justin W.
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND:

Pediatric airway models currently available for use in education or simulation do not replicate anatomy or tissue responses to procedures. Emphasis on mass production with sturdy but homogeneous materials and low-fidelity casting techniques diminishes these models’ abilities to realistically represent the unique characteristics of the pediatric airway, particularly in the infant and younger age ranges. Newer fabrication technologies, including 3-dimensional (3D) printing and castable tissue-like silicones, open new approaches to the simulation of pediatric airways with greater anatomical fidelity and utility for procedure training.

METHODS:

After ethics approval, available/archived computerized tomography data sets of patients under the age of 2 years were reviewed to identify those suitable for designing new models. A single 21-month-old subject was selected for 3D reconstruction. Manual thresholding was then performed to produce 3D models of selected regions and tissue types within the dataset, which were either directly 3D-printed or later cast in 3D-printed molds with a variety of tissue-like silicones. A series of testing mannequins derived using this multimodal approach were then further refined following direct clinician feedback to develop a series of pediatric airway model prototypes.

RESULTS:

The initial prototype consisted of separate skeletal (skull, mandible, vertebrae) and soft-tissue (nasal mucosa, pharynx, larynx, gingivae, tongue, functional temporomandibular joint [TMJ] “sleeve,” skin) modules. The first iterations of these modules were generated using both single-material and multimaterial 3D printing techniques to achieve the haptic properties of real human tissues. After direct clinical feedback, subsequent prototypes relied on a combination of 3D printing for osseous elements and casting of soft-tissue components from 3D-printed molds, which refined the haptic properties of the nasal, oropharyngeal, laryngeal, and airway tissues, and improved the range of movement required for airway management procedures. This approach of modification based on clinical feedback resulted in superior functional performance.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our hybrid manufacturing approach, merging 3D-printed components and 3D-printed molds for silicone casting, allows a more accurate representation of both the anatomy and functional characteristics of the pediatric airway for model production. Further, it allows for the direct translation of anatomy derived from real patient medical imaging into a functional airway management simulator, and our modular design allows for modification of individual elements to easily vary anatomical configurations, haptic qualities of components or exchange components to replicate pathology.
Dexmedetomidine and Clonidine Attenuate Sevoflurane-Induced Tau Phosphorylation and Cognitive Impairment in Young Mice via α-2 Adrenergic Receptor
Authors: Sun Mingyang , Dong Yuanlin , Li Mengzhu , Zhang Yiying , Liang Feng , Zhang Jiaqiang , Soriano Sulpicio G. , Xie Zhongcong
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND:

Anesthetic sevoflurane induces tau phosphorylation and cognitive impairment in young mice. The underlying mechanism and the targeted interventions remain largely unexplored. We hypothesized that dexmedetomidine and clonidine attenuated sevoflurane-induced tau phosphorylation and cognitive impairment by acting on α-2 adrenergic receptor.

METHODS:

Six-day-old mice received anesthesia with 3% sevoflurane 2 hours daily on postnatal days 6, 9, and 12. Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist dexmedetomidine and clonidine were used to treat the mice with and without the α-2 adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine. Mouse hippocampi were harvested and subjected to western blot analysis. The New Object Recognition Test and Morris Water Maze were used to measure cognitive function. We analyzed the primary outcomes by using 2- and 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Mann-Whitney U test to determine the effects of sevoflurane on the amounts of phosphorylated tau, postsynaptic density-95, and cognitive function in young mice after the treatments with dexmedetomidine, clonidine, and yohimbine.

RESULTS:

Both dexmedetomidine and clonidine attenuated the sevoflurane-induced increase in phosphorylated tau amount (94 ± 16.3% [dexmedetomidine plus sevoflurane] versus 240 ± 67.8% [vehicle plus sevoflurane], P < .001; 125 ± 13.5% [clonidine plus sevoflurane] versus 355 ± 57.6% [vehicle plus sevoflurane], P < .001; mean ± standard deviation), sevoflurane-induced reduction in postsynaptic density-95 (82 ± 6.6% [dexmedetomidine plus sevoflurane] versus 31 ± 12.4% [vehicle plus sevoflurane], P < .001; 95 ± 6.4% [clonidine plus sevoflurane] versus 62 ± 18.4% [vehicle plus sevoflurane], P < .001), and cognitive impairment in the young mice. Interestingly, yohimbine reversed the effects of dexmedetomidine and clonidine on attenuating the sevoflurane-induced changes in phosphorylated tau, postsynaptic density-95, and cognitive function.

CONCLUSIONS:

Dexmedetomidine and clonidine could inhibit the sevoflurane-induced tau phosphorylation and cognitive impairment via activation of α-2 adrenergic receptor. More studies are needed to confirm the results and to determine the clinical relevance of these findings.
100% Nitrous Oxide in the Oxygen Line: How Could This Happen in a Modern Anesthesia Machine?
Authors: Joo Sarah S. , Bechtold Hannah , Jaffe Richard A. , Brock-Utne John G.
Published: November 2020

The inadvertent crossover between O2 and N2O pipelines has become extremely rare in practice. We describe a case where it was possible to ventilate with 100% N2O instead of the intended 100% O2 on a modern anesthesia delivery system (Dräger Apollo; Drägerwerk AG & Co KgaA, Lübeck, Germany). This was the result of the incorrect assembly of diameter index safety system (DISS) components during preventative maintenance that defeated the DISS failsafe system. To make incorrect assembly easier to avoid, DISS component labeling could be more prominent and color-coded, or the internal construction of the gas manifold could incorporate DISS.
Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodissection for Baxter’s Neuropathy Secondary to Plantar Fasciitis: A Case Report
Authors: Sahoo Rajendra Kumar , Peng Philip W. H. , Sharma Santosh Kumar
Published: November 2020

Plantar heel pain is a common pain condition encountered in clinical practice. The common etiologies include plantar fasciitis, calcaneal spur, calcaneus stress fracture, systemic causes, and trauma. Neurogenic causes, including entrapment at the tarsal tunnel or Baxter’s nerve entrapment, can contribute to the heel pain and should not be overlooked. In this case report, we describe a patient with severe heel pain, presenting with overlapping features of plantar fasciitis and neuropathic pain. Magnetic resonance imaging suggested Baxter’s nerve entrapment, and a subsequent ultrasound-guided hydrodissection of Baxter’s nerve provided long-lasting pain relief.
siRNA potency enhancement via chemical modifications of nucleotide bases at the 5′-end of the siRNA guide strand
Authors: Shinohara Fumikazu , Oashi Taiji , Harumoto Toshimasa , Nishikawa Tomoyuki , Takayama Yuki , Miyagi Hikaru , Takahashi Yuichi , Nakajima Takahiro , Sawada Takashi , Koda Yasuo , Makino Asana , Sato Atsuko , Hamaguchi Kaori , Suzuki Michihiko , Yamamoto Junichiro , Tomari Yukihide , Saito Jun-Ichi
Published: November 2020

Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) can be utilized not only as functional biological research tools but also as therapeutic agents. For the clinical use of siRNA as drugs, various chemical modifications have been used to improve the activity of siRNA drugs, and further chemical modifications are expected to improve the utility of siRNA therapeutics. As the 5′ nucleobase of the guide strand affects the interaction between an siRNA and AGO2 and target cleavage activity, structural optimization of this specific position may be a useful strategy for improving siRNA activity. Here, using the in silico model of the complex between human AGO2 MID domain and nucleoside monophosphates, we screened and synthesized an original adenine-derived analog, 6-(3-(2-carboxyethyl)phenyl)purine (6-mCEPh-purine), that fits better than the natural nucleotide bases into the MID domain of AGO2. Introduction of the 6-mCEPh-purine analog at the 5′-end of the siRNA guide strand significantly enhanced target knockdown activity in both cultured cell lines and in vivo animal models. Our findings can help expand strategies for rationally optimizing siRNA activity via chemical modifications of nucleotide bases.
Tourette syndrome research highlights from 2019
Authors: Hartmann Andreas , Worbe Yulia , Black Kevin J.
Published: November 2020

This is the sixth yearly article in the Tourette Syndrome Research Highlights series, summarizing research from 2019 relevant to Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders. The highlights from 2020 is being drafted on the Authorea online authoring platform; readers are encouraged to add references or give feedback on our selections comments feature on this page. After the calendar year ends, this article is submitted as the annual update for the Tics collection F1000Research.
Health on the Move (HOME) Study: Using a smartphone app to explore the health and wellbeing of migrants in the United Kingdom
Authors: Aldridge Robert W. , Burns Rachel , Kirkby Victoria , Elsay Nadia , Murray Elizabeth , Perski Olga , Navaratnam Annalan M. , Williamson Elizabeth J. , Nieto-Martínez Ramfis , Miranda J. Jaime , Hugenholtz Greg C. G.
Published: November 2020

Background/Aim: We have a limited understanding of the broader determinants of health of international migrants and how these change over time since migration to the United Kingdom (UK). To address this knowledge gap, we aim to conduct a prospective cohort study with data acquisition via a smartphone application (app). In this pilot study, we aim to 1) determine the feasibility of the use of an app for data collection in international migrants, 2) optimise app engagement by quantifying the impact of specific design features on the completion rates of survey questionnaires and on study retention, 3) gather preliminary profile health status data, to begin to examine how risk factors for health are distributed among migrants.

Methods: We will recruit 275 participants through a social media campaign and through third sector organisations that work with or support migrants in the UK. Following consent and registration, data will be collected via surveys. To optimise app engagement and study retention, we will quantify the impact of specific design features (i.e. the frequency of survey requests, the time of day for app notifications, the frequency of notifications, and the wording of notifications) via micro-randomised process evaluations. The primary outcome for this study is survey completion rates with numerator as the number of surveys completed and denominator as the total number of available surveys. Secondary outcomes are study retention rates and ratings of interest after app usage.

Ethics and dissemination: We have obtained approval to use consented patient identifiable data from the University College London Ethics Committee. Improving engagement with the app and gathering preliminary health profile data will help us identify accessibility and usability issues and other barriers to app and study engagement prior to moving to a larger study.
Some notes on quantum Hellinger divergences with Heinz means
Authors: Lam Nguyen , Milley Rebecca
Published: November 2020

The information geometry, convexity, in-betweenness property and the barycenter problem of quantum Hellinger divergences with Heinz means is studied. The limiting cases are also considered.
Does eight-plate epiphysiodesis of the proximal tibia in treating angular deformity create intra-articular deformity?
Authors: Ballhause Tobias M. , Stiel Norbert , Breyer Sandra , Stücker Ralf , Spiro Alexander S.
Published: November 2020

Aims

Eight-plates are used to correct varus-valgus deformity (VVD) or limb-length discrepancy (LLD) in children and adolescents. It was reported that these implants might create a bony deformity within the knee joint by change of the roof angle (RA) after epiphysiodesis of the proximal tibia following a radiological assessment limited to anteroposterior (AP) radiographs. The aim of this study was to analyze the RA, complemented with lateral knee radiographs, with focus on the tibial slope (TS) and the degree of deformity correction.

Methods

A retrospective, single-centre study was conducted. The treatment group (n = 64 knees in 44 patients) was subclassified according to the implant location in two groups: 1) medial hemiepiphysiodesis; and 2) lateral hemiepiphysiodesis. A third control group consisted of 25 untreated knees. The limb axes and RA were measured on long standing AP leg radiographs. Lateral radiographs of 40 knees were available for TS analysis. The mean age of the patients was 10.6 years (4 to 15) in the treatment group and 8.4 years (4 to 14) in the control group. Implants were removed after a mean 1.2 years (0.5 to 3).

Results

No significant differences in RA (p = 0.174) and TS (p = 0.787) were observed. The limb axes were significantly corrected in patients with VVD (p < 0.001). The change in tibial slope (∆TS) did not correlate ( r = -0.026; p = 0.885) to the plate’s position on the physis when assessed by lateral radiographs.

Conclusion

We were not able to confirm the reported change in the bony morphology of the proximal tibia on AP radiographs in our patient population. In addition, no significant change in TS was detected on the lateral radiographs. A significant correction of the VVD in the lower limb axes was evident. Position of the implant did not correlate with TS change. Therefore, eight-plate epiphysiodesis is a safe and effective procedure for correcting VVD in children without disturbing the knee joint morphology. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(10):1412–1418.
Effect of scapular notching on clinical outcomes after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Jang Young Hoon , Lee Jeong Hyun , Kim Sae Hoon
Published: November 2020

Aims

Scapular notching is thought to have an adverse effect on the outcome of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). However, the matter is still controversial. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical impact of scapular notching on outcomes after RTSA.

Methods

Three electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Database, and EMBASE) were searched for studies which evaluated the influence of scapular notching on clinical outcome after RTSA. The quality of each study was assessed. Functional outcome scores (the Constant-Murley scores (CMS), and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores), and postoperative range of movement (forward flexion (FF), abduction, and external rotation (ER)) were extracted and subjected to meta-analysis. Effect sizes were expressed as weighted mean differences (WMD).

Results

In all, 11 studies (two level III and nine level IV) were included in the meta-analysis. All analyzed variables indicated that scapular notching has a negative effect on the outcome of RTSA . Statistical significance was found for the CMS (WMD –3.11; 95% confidence interval (CI) –4.98 to –1.23), the ASES score (WMD –6.50; 95% CI –10.80 to –2.19), FF (WMD –6.3°; 95% CI –9.9° to –2.6°), and abduction (WMD –9.4°; 95% CI –17.8° to –1.0°), but not for ER (WMD –0.6°; 95% CI –3.7° to 2.5°).

Conclusion

The current literature suggests that patients with scapular notching after RTSA have significantly worse results when evaluated by the CMS, ASES score, and range of movement in flexion and abduction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1438–1445.
The Orthopaedic Trauma Society classification of open fractures
Authors: Trompeter Alex J. , Knight Ruth , Parsons Nick , Costa Matthew L.
Published: November 2020

Aims

To describe a new objective classification for open fractures of the lower limb and to correlate the classification with patient-centred outcomes.

Methods

The proposed classification was investigated within a cohort of adults with open fractures of the lower limb who were recruited as part of two large clinical trials within the UK Major Trauma Network. The classification was correlated with patient-reported Disability Rating Index (DRI) and EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D) health-related quality of life in the year after injury, and with deep infection at 30 days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definition of a deep surgical site infection.

Results

A total of 748 participants were included in the analysis. Of these, 288 (38.5%) had a simple open fracture and 460 (61.5%) had a complex fracture as defined by the new classification system. At 12 months, the mean DRI in the simple fracture group was 32.5 (SD 26.8) versus 43.9 (SD 26.1) in the complex fracture group (adjusted mean difference 8.19; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.69 to 12.69). At 12 months the mean health-related quality of life (EQ-5D utility) in the simple fracture group was 0.59 (SD 0.29) versus 0.56 (SD 0.32) in the complex fracture group (adjusted mean difference -0.03; 95% CI -0.09 to 0.02). The differences in the rate of deep infection at 30 days was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The Orthopaedic Trauma Society open fracture classification is based upon objective descriptors of the injury and correlates with patient-centred outcomes in a large cohort of open fractures of the lower limb. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1469–1474.
Patient-reported outcomes after corrective osteotomy for a symptomatic malunion of the distal radius
Authors: Stirling Paul H. C. , Oliver William M. , Ling Tan Huai , Brown Iain D. M. , Oliver Christopher W. , McQueen Margaret M. , Molyneux Sam G. , Duckworth Andrew D.
Published: November 2020

Aims

The primary aim of this study was to describe patient satisfaction and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) following corrective osteotomy for a symptomatic malunion of the distal radius.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 122 adult patients from a single centre over an eight-year period who had undergone corrective osteotomy for a symptomatic malunion of the distal radius. The primary long-term outcome was the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score. Secondary outcomes included the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score, the EQ-5D-5L score, complications, and the Net Promoter Score (NPS). Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with the PRWE score.

Results

Long-term outcomes were available for 89 patients (72%). The mean age was 57 years (SD 15) and 68 were female (76%). The median time from injury to corrective osteotomy was nine months (interquartile range (IQR) 6 to 13). At a mean follow-up of six years (1 to 11) the median PRWE score was 22 (IQR 7 to 40), the median QuickDASH score was 11.4 (IQR 2.3 to 31.8), and the median EQ-5D-5L score was 0.84 (IQR 0.69 to 1). The NPS was 69. Multivariate regression analysis showed that the presence of an associated ulnar styloid fracture was the only significant independent factor associated with a worse PRWE score when adjusting for confounding variables (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

We found that corrective osteotomy for malunion of the distal radius can result in good functional outcomes and high levels of patient satisfaction. However, the presence of an ulnar styloid fracture may adversely affect function. Level of Evidence: III (cohort study). Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1542–1548.
Porcine skin damage threshold from mid-infrared optical parametric oscillator radiation at 3.743 µm
Authors: Jiao Luguang , Wang Chao , Zhang Kaizeng , Wang Jiarui , Yang Zaifu
Published: November 2020

There is increasing use of mid-infrared optical parametric oscillator radiation operating in the wavelength range of 3–5 µm. To expand existing damage data for skin exposure to lasers in this wavelength region, the in-vivo damage threshold at the wavelength of 3.743 µm was determined in a Guizhou miniature pig model for an exposure duration of 1.0 s. The irradiance of the laser spot was nearly Gaussian-distributed and the 1/e2 beam diameter on the animal skin surface was fixed at 0.94 and 0.88 cm along horizontal and vertical directions. Damage lesion determinations were performed at 1- and 24-hour post-exposure. The probit analysis was employed to establish the ED50 values. The ED50 expressed in peak radiant exposure for the Gaussian spot was 4.04 J/cm2 at the 24-hour post-exposure. Sufficient margin existed between the damage threshold and MPE from the current laser safety standard. The obtained data may contribute to the knowledge base for refinement of laser safety standard in the wavelength range of 2.6–1000 µm.
Lithography-free disordered metal–insulator–metal nanoantennas for colorimetric sensing
Authors: Eftekhari Zeinab , Ghobadi Amir , Ozbay Ekmel
Published: November 2020

The colorimetric detection of bio-agent targets has attracted considerable attention in nanosensor designs. This platform provides an easy to use, real-time, and rapid sensing approach, as the color change can be easily distinguished by the naked eye. In this Letter, we propose a large scale compatible fabrication route to realize colorimetric optical nanosensors with a novel configuration. For this purpose, we design and fabricate a tightly packed disordered arrangement of Fabry–Perot based metal–insulator–metal nanoantennas with a resonance frequency at visible light wavelengths. In this design, the adsorbed bio-agent changes the effective refractive index of the cavity, and this causes a shift in the resonance wavelength. The experimental data show that the proposed design can have sensitivity values

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index unit. Unlike other optical sensing schemes that rely mainly on hot spot formation and field enhancement, this design has a large active area with relatively uniform patterns that make it a promising approach for low-level and reliable bio-detection.
Diagnostic performance of congestion score index evaluated from chest radiography for acute heart failure in the emergency department: A retrospective analysis from the PARADISE cohort
Authors: Kobayashi Masatake , Douair Amine , Duarte Kevin , Jaeger Déborah , Giacomin Gaetan , Bassand Adrien , Jeangeorges Victor , Vuillaume Laure Abensur , Preud'homme Gregoire , Huttin Olivier , Zannad Faiez , Rossignol Patrick , Chouihed Tahar , Girerd Nicolas
Published: November 2020

Background

Congestion score index (CSI), a semiquantitative evaluation of congestion on chest radiography (CXR), is associated with outcome in patients with heart failure (HF). However, its diagnostic value in patients admitted for acute dyspnea has yet to be evaluated.

Methods and findings

The diagnostic value of CSI for acute HF (AHF; adjudicated from patients’ discharge files) was studied in the Pathway of dyspneic patients in Emergency (PARADISE) cohort, including patients aged 18 years or older admitted for acute dyspnea in the emergency department (ED) of the Nancy University Hospital (France) between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2015. CSI (ranging from 0 to 3) was evaluated using a semiquantitative method on CXR in consecutive patients admitted for acute dyspnea in the ED. Results were validated in independent cohorts (N = 224). Of 1,333 patients, mean (standard deviation [SD]) age was 72.0 (18.5) years, 686 (51.5%) were men, and mean (SD) CSI was 1.42 (0.79). Patients with higher CSI had more cardiovascular comorbidities, more severe congestion, higher b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), poorer renal function, and more respiratory acidosis. AHF was diagnosed in 289 (21.7%) patients. CSI was significantly associated with AHF diagnosis (adjusted odds ratio [OR] for 0.1 unit CSI increase 1.19, 95% CI 1.16–1.22, p < 0.001) after adjustment for clinical-based diagnostic score including age, comorbidity burden, dyspnea, and clinical congestion. The diagnostic accuracy of CSI for AHF was >0.80, whether alone (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUROC] 0.84, 95% CI 0.82–0.86) or in addition to the clinical model (AUROC 0.87, 95% CI 0.85–0.90). CSI improved diagnostic accuracy on top of clinical variables (net reclassification improvement [NRI] = 94.9%) and clinical variables plus BNP (NRI = 55.0%). Similar diagnostic accuracy was observed in the validation cohorts (AUROC 0.75, 95% CI 0.68–0.82). The key limitation of our derivation cohort was its single-center and retrospective nature, which was counterbalanced by the validation in the independent cohorts.

Conclusions

In this study, we observed that a systematic semiquantified assessment of radiographic pulmonary congestion showed high diagnostic value for AHF in dyspneic patients. Better use of CXR may provide an inexpensive, widely, and readily available method for AHF triage in the ED.
Factors influencing precision medicine knowledge and attitudes
Authors: Chakravarthy Rohini , Stallings Sarah C. , Williams Michael , Hollister Megan , Davidson Mario , Canedo Juan , Wilkins Consuelo H.
Published: November 2020

Precision medicine holds great promise for improving health and reducing health disparities that can be most fully realized by advancing diversity and inclusion in research participants. Without engaging underrepresented groups, precision medicine could not only fail to achieve its promise but also further exacerbate the health disparities already burdening the most vulnerable. Yet underrepresentation by people of non-European ancestry continues in precision medicine research and there are disparities across racial groups in the uptake of precision medicine applications and services. Studies have explored possible explanations for population differences in precision medicine participation, but full appreciation of the factors involved is still developing. To better inform the potential for addressing health disparities through PM, we assessed the relationship of precision medicine knowledge and trust in biomedical research with sociodemographic variables. Using a series of linear regression models applied to survey data collected in a diverse sample, we analyzed variation in both precision medicine knowledge and trust in biomedical research with socioeconomic factors as a way to understand the range of precision medicine knowledge (PMK) in a broadly representative group and its relationship to trust in research and demographic characteristics. Our results demonstrate that identifying as Black, while significantly PMK, explains only 1.5% of the PMK variance in unadjusted models and 7% of overall variance in models adjusted for meaningful covariates such as age, marital status, employment, and education. We also found a positive association between PMK and trust in biomedical research. These results indicate that race is a factor affecting PMK, even after accounting for differences in sociodemographic variables. Additional work is needed, however, to identify other factors contributing to variation in PMK as we work to increase diversity and inclusion in precision medicine applications.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies in District Srinagar, northern India – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Khan S. Muhammad Salim , Qurieshi Mariya Amin , Haq Inaamul , Majid Sabhiya , Bhat Arif Akbar , Nabi Sahila , Ganai Nisar Ahmad , Zahoor Nazia , Nisar Auqfeen , Chowdri Iqra Nisar , Qazi Tanzeela Bashir , Kousar Rafiya , Lone Abdul Aziz , Sabah Iram , Nabi Shahroz , Sumji Ishtiyaq Ahmad , Kawoosa Misbah Ferooz , Ayoub Shifana
Published: November 2020

Background

Prevalence of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 infection provides essential information for deciding disease prevention and mitigation measures. We estimate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies in District Srinagar.

Methods

2906 persons >18 years of age selected from hospital visitors across District Srinagar participated in the study. We tested samples for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies using a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay-based serologic test.

Results

Age- and gender-standardized seroprevalence was 3.6% (95% CI 2.9% to 4.3%). Age 30–69 years, a recent history of symptoms of an influenza-like-illness, and a history of being placed under quarantine were significantly related to higher odds of the presence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies. The estimated number of SARS-CoV-2 infections during the two weeks preceding the study, adjusted for test performance, was 32602 with an estimated (median) infection-to-known-case ratio of 46 (95% CI 36 to 57).

Conclusions

The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies is low in the District. A large proportion of the population is still susceptible to the infection. A sizeable number of infections remain undetected, and a substantial proportion of people with symptoms compatible with COVID-19 are not tested.
Analysis of motor control strategy for frontal and sagittal planes of circular tracking movements using visual feedback noise from velocity change and depth information
Authors: Lee Geonhui , Choi Woong , Jo Hanjin , Park Wookhyun , Kim Jaehyo
Published: November 2020

We aim to investigate a control strategy for the circular tracking movement in a three-dimensional (3D) space based on the accuracy of the visual information. After setting the circular orbits for the frontal and sagittal planes in the 3D virtual space, the subjects track a target moving at a constant velocity. The analysis is applied to two parameters of the polar coordinates, namely, ΔR (the difference in the distance from the center of a circular orbit) and Δω (the difference in the angular velocity). The movement in the sagittal plane provides different depth information depending on the position of the target in orbit, unlike the task of the frontal plane. Therefore, the circular orbit is divided into four quadrants for a statistical analysis of ΔR. In the sagittal plane, the error was two to three times larger in quadrants 1 and 4 than in quadrants 2 and 3 close to the subject. Here, Δω is estimated using a frequency analysis; the lower the accuracy of the visual information, the greater the periodicity. When comparing two different planes, the periodicity in the sagittal plane was approximately 1.7 to 2 times larger than that of the frontal plane. In addition, the average angular velocity of the target and tracer was within 0.6% during a single cycle. We found that if the amount of visual information is reduced, an optimal feedback control strategy can be used to reduce the positional error within a specific area.
Misinformation and herd behavior in media markets: A cross-national investigation of how tabloids’ attention to misinformation drives broadsheets’ attention to misinformation in political and business journalism
Authors: Wilczek Bartosz
Published: November 2020

This study develops and tests a theoretical framework, which draws on herd behavior literature and explains how and under what conditions tabloids’ attention to misinformation drives broadsheets’ attention to misinformation. More specifically, the study analyzes all cases of political and business misinformation in Switzerland and the U.K. between 2002 and 2018, which are selected based on corresponding Swiss and U.K. press councils’ rulings (N = 114). The findings show that during amplifying events (i.e., election campaigns and economic downturns) tabloids allocate more attention to political and business misinformation, which, in turn, drives broadsheets to allocate more attention to the misinformation as well–and especially if the misinformation serves broadsheets’ ideological goals. Moreover, the findings show differences between Swiss and U.K. media markets only in the case of business misinformation and suggest that the attention allocation process depends in particular on the strength of the amplifying event in a media market. Thereby, this study contributes to the understanding of how and under what conditions misinformation spreads in media markets.
S-adenosyl methionine synthetase SAMS-5 mediates dietary restriction-induced longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Chen Chia-Chang , Lim Chiao Yin , Lee Pin-Jung , Hsu Ao-Lin , Ching Tsui-Ting
Published: November 2020

S-adenosyl methionine synthetase (SAMS) catalyzes the biosynthesis of S-adenosyl methionine (SAM), which serves as a universal methyl group donor for numerous biochemical reactions. Previous studies have clearly demonstrated that SAMS-1, a C. elegans homolog of mammalian SAMS, is critical for dietary restriction (DR)-induced longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans. In addition to SAMS-1, three other SAMS paralogs have been identified in C. elegans. However, their roles in longevity regulation have never been explored. Here, we show that depletion of sams-5, but not sams-3 or sams-4, can extend lifespan in worms. However, the phenotypes and expression pattern of sams-5 are distinct from sams-1, suggesting that these two SAMSs might regulate DR-induced longevity via different mechanisms. Through the genetic epistasis analysis, we have identified that sams-5 is required for DR-induced longevity in a pha-4/FOXA dependent manner.
Circulating whole genome miRNA expression corresponds to progressive right ventricle enlargement and systolic dysfunction in adults with tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Weldy Chad S. , Syed Saad Ali , Amsallem Myriam , Hu Dong-Qing , Ji Xuhuai , Punn Rajesh , Taylor Anne , Navarre Brittany , Reddy Sushma
Published: November 2020

Introduction

The adult congenital heart disease population with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is subject to chronic volume and pressure loading leading to a 40% probability of right ventricular (RV) failure by the 3rd decade of life. We sought to identify a non-invasive signature of adverse RV remodeling using peripheral blood microRNA (miRNA) profiling to better understand the mechanisms of RV failure.

Methods

Demographic, clinical data, and blood samples were collected from adults with repaired TOF (N = 20). RNA was isolated from the buffy coat of peripheral blood and whole genome miRNA expression was profiled using Agilent’s global miRNA microarray platform. Fold change, pathway analysis, and unbiased hierarchical clustering of miRNA expression was performed and correlated to RV size and function assessed by echocardiography performed at or near the time of blood collection.

Results

MiRNA expression was profiled in the following groups: 1. normal RV size (N = 4), 2. mild/moderate RV enlargement (N = 11) and 3. severe RV enlargement (N = 5). 267 miRNAs were downregulated, and 66 were upregulated across the three groups (fold change >2.0, FDR corrected p<0.05) as RV enlargement increased and systolic function decreased. qPCR validation of a subset of these miRNAs identified increasing expression of miRNA 28-3p, 433-3p, and 371b-3p to be associated with increasing RV size and decreasing RV systolic function. Unbiased hierarchical clustering of all patients based on miRNA expression demonstrates three distinct patient clusters that largely coincide with progressive RV enlargement. Pathway analysis of dysregulated miRNAs demonstrates up and downregulation of cell cycle pathways, extracellular matrix proteins and fatty acid synthesis. HIF 1α signaling was downregulated while p53 signaling was predicted to be upregulated.

Conclusion

Adults with TOF have a distinct miRNA profile with progressive RV enlargement and dysfunction implicating cell cycle dysregulation and upregulation in extracellular matrix and fatty acid metabolism. These data suggest peripheral blood miRNA can provide insight into the mechanisms of RV failure and can potentially be used for monitoring disease progression and to develop RV specific therapeutics to prevent RV failure in TOF.
On the treatment effect heterogeneity of antidepressants in major depression: A Bayesian meta-analysis and simulation study
Authors: Volkmann Constantin , Volkmann Alexander , Müller Christian A.
Published: November 2020

Background

The average treatment effect of antidepressants in major depression was found to be about 2 points on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, which lies below clinical relevance. Here, we searched for evidence of a relevant treatment effect heterogeneity that could justify the usage of antidepressants despite their low average treatment effect.

Methods

Bayesian meta-analysis of 169 randomized, controlled trials including 58,687 patients. We considered the effect sizes log variability ratio (lnVR) and log coefficient of variation ratio (lnCVR) to analyze the difference in variability of active and placebo response. We used Bayesian random-effects meta-analyses (REMA) for lnVR and lnCVR and fitted a random-effects meta-regression (REMR) model to estimate the treatment effect variability between antidepressants and placebo.

Results

The variability ratio was found to be very close to 1 in the best fitting models (REMR: 95% highest density interval (HDI) [0.98, 1.02], REMA: 95% HDI [1.00, 1.02]). The between-study standard deviation τ under the REMA with respect to lnVR was found to be low (95% HDI [0.00, 0.02]). Simulations showed that a large treatment effect heterogeneity is only compatible with the data if a strong correlation between placebo response and individual treatment effect is assumed.

Conclusions

The published data from RCTs on antidepressants for the treatment of major depression is compatible with a near-constant treatment effect. Although it is impossible to rule out a substantial treatment effect heterogeneity, its existence seems rather unlikely. Since the average treatment effect of antidepressants falls short of clinical relevance, the current prescribing practice should be re-evaluated.
Factors associated with postmenstrual age at full oral feeding in very preterm infants
Authors: Brun Grégoire , Fischer Fumeaux Céline J. , Giannoni Eric , Bickle Graz Myriam
Published: November 2020

Aim

We aimed to identify variables associated with gestational age at full oral feeding in a cohort of very preterm infants.

Methods

In this retrospective study, all infants born below 32 weeks of gestation and admitted to a level III neonatal unit in 2015 were included. We dichotomized our population of 122 infants through the median age at full oral feeding, and explored which variables were statistically different between the two groups. We then used linear regression analysis to study the association between variables known from the literature and variables we had identified and age at full oral feeding.

Results

The median postnatal age at full oral feeding was 36 6/7weeks post menstrual age (Q1-Q3 35 6/7-392/7), and was associated with the duration of hospital of stay. In the univariable linear regression, the variables significantly associated with full oral feeding were gestational age, socioeconomic status, sepsis, patent ductus arteriosus, duration of supplementary oxygen, of non-invasive and invasive ventilation, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In the multivariable regression analysis, duration of non-invasive ventilation and oxygen therapy, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and patent ductus arteriosus were associated with an older age at full oral feeding, with bronchopulmonary dysplasia the single most potent predictor.

Discussion

Lung disease severity is a major determinant of age at full oral feeding and thus length of stay in this population. Other factors associated with FOF include socioeconomic status and patent ductus arteriosus, There is a need for research addressing evidence-based bundles of care for these infants at risk of long-lasting feeding and neurodevelopmental impairments.
Development of a PATIENT-Medication Adherence Instrument (P-MAI) and a HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL-Medication Adherence Instrument (H-MAI) using the nominal group technique
Authors: Goh Sheron Sir Loon , Lai Pauline Siew Mei , Liew Su-May , Tan Kit Mun , Chung Wen Wei , Chua Siew Siang
Published: November 2020

To date, several medication adherence instruments have been developed and validated worldwide. However, most instruments have only assessed medication adherence from the patient’s perspective. The aim was to develop and validate the PATIENT-Medication Adherence Instrument (P-MAI) and the HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL-Medication Adherence Instrument (H-MAI) to assess medication adherence from the patient’s and healthcare professional (HCP)’s perspectives. The P-MAI-12 and H-MAI-12 were developed using the nominal group technique. The face and content validity was determined by an expert panel and piloted. The initial version of these instruments consisted of 12 items were validated from October-December 2018 at a primary care clinic in Malaysia. Included were patients aged ≥21 years, diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, taking at least one oral hypoglycaemic agent and who could understand English. The HCPs recruited were family medicine specialists or trainees. To assess validity, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and concurrent validity were performed; internal consistency and test-retest were performed to assess its reliability. A total of 120/158 patients (response rate = 75.9%) and 30/33 HCPs (response rate = 90.9%) agreed to participate. EFA found three problematic items in both instruments, which was then removed. The final version of the P-MAI-9 and the HMAI-9 had 9 items each with two domains (adherence = 2 items and knowledge/belief = 7 items). For concurrent validity, the total score of the P-MAI-9 and the H-MAI-9 were not significantly different (p = 0.091), indicating that medication adherence assessed from both the patient’s and HCP’s perspectives were similar. Both instruments achieved acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s α: P-MAI-9 = 0.722; H-MAI-9 = 0.895). For the P-MAI-9, 7/9 items showed no significant difference between test and retest whereas 8/9 items in the H-MAI-9 showed significant difference at test and retest (p>0.05). In conclusion, the P-MAI-9 and H-MAI-9 had low sensitivity and high specificity suggesting that both instruments can be used for identifying patients more likely to be non-adherent to their medications.
Subregional variation in cover and diversity of hard coral (Scleractinia) in the Western Province, Solomon Islands following an unprecedented global bleaching event
Authors: Denley Danielle , Metaxas Anna , Scheibling Robert
Published: November 2020

Coral reefs are critically important marine ecosystems that are threatened worldwide by cumulative impacts of global climate change and local stressors. The Solomon Islands comprise the southwestern boundary of the Coral Triangle, the global center of coral diversity located in the Indo-Pacific, and represent a bright spot of comparatively healthy coral reef ecosystems. However, reports on the status of coral reefs in the Solomon Islands are based on monitoring conducted at 5 stations in 2003–2004 and 2006–2007, with no information on how corals in this region have responded to more recent global bleaching events and other local stressors. In this study, we compare reef condition (substrate composition) and function (taxonomic and morphological diversity of hard corals) among 15 reefs surveyed in the Western Province, Solomon Islands that span a range of local disturbance and conservation histories. Overall, we found high cover of live hard coral (15–64%) and diverse coral assemblages despite an unprecedented 36-month global bleaching event in the three years leading up to our surveys in 2018. However, there was significant variation in coral cover and diversity across the 15 reefs surveyed, suggesting that impacts of global disturbance events are moderated at smaller scales by local anthropogenic factors (fisheries extraction, land-use impacts, marine management) and environmental (hydrodynamics) conditions. Our study provides evidence that relatively healthy reefs persist at some locations in the Solomon Islands and that local stewardship practices have the potential to impact reef condition at subregional scales. As coral reef conservation becomes increasingly urgent in the face of escalating cumulative threats, prioritising sites for management efforts is critical. Based on our findings and the high dependency of Solomon Islanders on coral reef ecosystem services, we advocate that the Western Province, Solomon Islands be considered of high conservation priority.
Lack of efficacy of standard doses of ivermectin in severe COVID-19 patients
Authors: Camprubí Daniel , Almuedo-Riera Alex , Martí-Soler Helena , Soriano Alex , Hurtado Juan Carlos , Subirà Carme , Grau-Pujol Berta , Krolewiecki Alejandro , Muñoz Jose
Published: November 2020

Ivermectin has recently shown efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 in-vitro. We retrospectively reviewed severe COVID-19 patients receiving standard doses of ivermectin and we compared clinical and microbiological outcomes with a similar group of patients not receiving ivermectin. No differences were found between groups. We recommend the evaluation of high-doses of ivermectin in randomized trials against SARS-CoV-2.
Comparative evaluation of decellularized bovine omentum alone and in combination with mitomycin-C in the management of corneal injuries in dogs
Authors: Thajunnisa A. S. , Sainulabdeen Anoop , Dileepkumar K. M. , Philip Laiju M. , Vasudevan V. N. , Devanand C. B.
Published: November 2020

Background and Aim: Ulcerative corneal lesions are common ocular affections encountered in veterinary ophthalmology, having a higher incidence in dogs with brachycephalic conformation. Prompt and effective diagnosis and repair are necessary to avoid corneal perforation and restore vision. Corneal wound healing is a complex phenomenon often resulting in vision impairment as a consequence of corneal fibrosis and pigmentation. The present study investigated the efficacy of decellularized and gamma-irradiated bovine omentum as an extracellular matrix scaffold in the reconstruction of extensive and full-thickness corneal defects, and the cytotoxic effects of mitomycin-C (MMC) to prevent corneal fibrosis and pigmentation.

Materials and Methods: Twelve injured corneas of eleven dogs irrespective of breed, age, and sex were randomly divided into Groups I and II, consisting of six corneas each. Under general anesthesia, corneal grafting with decellularized and gamma-irradiated bovine omentum was carried out in Group I, whereas Group II corneas underwent single time intra-operative application of topical MMC for 2 min before corneal grafting with the same material. Epithelialization of cornea and observations including corneal edema, neovascularization, the extent of pigmentation, corneal clarity, and scarring was recorded on days 7, 14, 21, and 60 postoperatively.

Results: All corneas in Group I showed early epithelialization by day 7 compared to Group II where the MMC delayed epithelialization in 50% of the corneas. Visual function scores improved greatly from 0.17±0.17 in Group II on the day of presentation to 1.0±00 by the end of the observation period compared to Group I (from 0.33±0.15 to 0.88±0.11). Although epithelialization and corneal healing were delayed, 50% of the corneas recovered with undetectable corneal scar and melanosis at the end of the observation period in Group II due to the anti-fibrotic effect of MMC.

Conclusion: From the present study, it was concluded that re-epithelialization of the cornea was enhanced by corneal grafting with decellularized bovine omentum, and application of MMC was effective in delaying corneal fibrosis and pigmentation.