bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A list of 49 new stellar twins from the Kepler catalogue of eclipsing binary stars
Authors: Yücel Gökhan , Bakış Volkan
Published: May 2022

49 new eclipsing twin binary candidates are identified and analysed based on the Kepler eclipsing binary light curves. Their colours and spectral types are calculated according to our classification. A comparison of the spectral type distribution of eclipsing twin binary systems showed that F-type twins dominate among others, which agrees well with recent studies. The distance of eclipsing twin binaries from the galactic plane shows that F- and G-type twins can be seen at any distance from the galactic plane and most of the known eclipsing binary twins are located within 200 pc of the galactic plane, which could be interpreted as these systems are the members of thin disc population. As a case study, a twin binary system selected from our updated list of twins, V396 Gem, has been analysed with spectroscopic and Kepler data. As a result, we have derived the physical parameters of the components of V396 Gem as M1,2(M⊙) = 1.814 ± 0.114, 1.797 ± 0.114; R1,2(R⊙) = 2.655 ± 0.078, 2.659 ± 0.090; $T_{\mathrm{eff}_{1,2}}(\mathrm{ K})=7000\pm 100$, 6978 ± 100; and [M/H] = 0.11 ± 0.03. We have calculated the evolutionary status of the components by using mesa. Accurately derived physical parameters of the components of V396 Gem have allowed us to determine the age of the system as 1.168 ± 0.149 Byr.
SVA Retrotransposons and a Low Copy Repeat in Humans and Great Apes: A Mobile Connection
Authors: Damert Annette
Published: May 2022

Segmental duplications (SDs) constitute a considerable fraction of primate genomes. They contribute to genetic variation and provide raw material for evolution. Groups of SDs are characterized by the presence of shared core duplicons. One of these core duplicons, low copy repeat (lcr)16a, has been shown to be particularly active in the propagation of interspersed SDs in primates. The underlying mechanisms are, however, only partially understood. Alu short interspersed elements (SINEs) are frequently found at breakpoints and have been implicated in the expansion of SDs.

Detailed analysis of lcr16a-containing SDs shows that the hominid-specific SVA (SINE-R-VNTR-Alu) retrotransposon is an integral component of the core duplicon in Asian and African great apes. In orang-utan, it provides breakpoints and contributes to both interchromosomal and intrachromosomal lcr16a mobility by inter-element recombination. Furthermore, the data suggest that in hominines (human, chimpanzee, gorilla) SVA recombination-mediated integration of a circular intermediate is the founding event of a lineage-specific lcr16a expansion. One of the hominine lcr16a copies displays large flanking direct repeats, a structural feature shared by other SDs in the human genome.

Taken together, the results obtained extend the range of SVAs’ contribution to genome evolution from RNA-mediated transduction to DNA-based recombination. In addition, they provide further support for a role of circular intermediates in SD mobilization.
Real-world safety and effectiveness of canakinumab in patients with tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome or hyperimmunoglobulinaemia D syndrome: Interim results from post-marketing surveillance in Japan
Authors: Hosono Kumiko , Matsumoto Kazuko , Shimbo Miki , Tsumiyama Isao , Kato Chihiro
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To assess the real-world safety and effectiveness of canakinumab in patients in Japan with tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) or mevalonate kinase deficiency/hyperimmunoglobulinaemia D with periodic fever syndrome (MKD/HIDS).

Methods

All patients with TRAPS or MKD/HIDS who received canakinumab following drug approval in Japan were registered in a post-marketing all-patient surveillance with a 2-year observation period. Herein, the interim results are reported.

Results

Fifteen patients with TRAPS and seven with MKD/HIDS were included in the safety and effectiveness analysis set. Adverse drug reactions were reported in 26.67% (n = 4) and 42.86% (n = 3) of TRAPS and MKD/HIDS patients, respectively. Most common adverse drug reactions were upper respiratory tract inflammation (13.33%, n = 2) and pyrexia (42.86%, n = 3) in TRAPS and MKD/HIDS patients, respectively. No serious adverse drug reactions were observed in either TRAPS or MKD/HIDS patients. The proportion of responders was 46.67% and 14.29% in the TRAPS and MKD/HIDS groups, respectively; 72.73% and 66.67% achieved clinical remission, while 90.91% and 66.67% achieved serological remission by Week 4 in the TRAPS and MKD/HIDS groups, respectively.

Conclusions

These interim results provide the first evidence of the real-world effectiveness of canakinumab in patients with TRAPS or MKD/HIDS in Japan. No new safety concerns were identified.
A Randomized Pilot of a Tailored Smoking Cessation Quitline Intervention for Individuals Who Smoke and Vape
Authors: Vickerman Katrina A , Carpenter Kelly M , Miles Lyndsay N , Hsu Johnathan M , Watt Karen A , Brandon Thomas H , Hart Jonathan T , Javitz Harold S , Wagener Theodore L
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Although e-cigarettes are not a federally approved tobacco cessation aid in the United States, many smokers use them to quit or cut down on smoking. Tailored behavioral support could improve rates of complete smoking cessation for those individuals.

Aims and Methods

A novel behavioral treatment to help dual cigarette and e-cigarette users quit smoking was tested in a randomized pilot with a state tobacco quitline. Ninety-six dual users of cigarettes and e-cigarettes were recruited from incoming state quitline callers and randomized to receive enhanced e-cigarette coaching (EEC) or quitline treatment as usual (TAU) to examine EEC feasibility and acceptability. Outcomes at 3 months were treatment satisfaction, engagement, beliefs, and smoking cessation. This pilot was not powered to detect differences in quit rates.

Results

Sixty-nine percent responded to the 3-month survey. EEC treatment satisfaction was noninferior to TAU: 93.8% (30/32) of EEC and 73.5% (25/34) of TAU reported being “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with treatment, respectively. EEC participants completed more coaching calls than TAU (M = 3.4 vs. M = 2.7, p = .03), and the majority in both groups elected to receive nicotine replacement therapy (EEC: 100%, TAU: 94%, p = .24). With missing data imputed as smoking, intent-to-treat 7-day point prevalence smoking abstinence rates were 41.3% (19/46) for EEC and 28.0% (14/50) for TAU (p = .20).

Conclusions

The EEC quitline intervention for dual cigarette and e-cigarette users demonstrated high levels of treatment satisfaction and engagement. This pilot was not powered to detect significant differences in smoking cessation; however, cessation rates were promising and warrant evaluation in a fully powered trial.

Implications

If this scalable behavioral treatment to help dual cigarette and e-cigarette users quit smoking proves to be effective in a larger trial, quitlines could implement this harm reduction approach to improve outcomes for callers who already use e-cigarettes and are planning to use them while quitting smoking.
Domino effect of a natural cascade alpine lake system on the Third Pole
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Hu , Zhong Xiaoyang , Zhou Jing , Zhu Liping , Yao Tandong , Xie Changwei , Ju Jianting , Chen Deliang , Yang Kun , Zhao Lin , Lu Shanlong , Khanal Sonu , Jin Jiming , Liu Wenhui , Liu Baokang , Du Yu'e , Yao Xiaojun , Lei Yanbin , Zhang Guoqing , Nepal Santosh
Published: May 2022

Third Pole natural cascade alpine lakes (NCALs) are exceptionally sensitive to climate change, yet the underlying cryosphere-hydrological processes and associated societal impacts are largely unknown. Here, with a state-of-the-art cryosphere-hydrology-lake-dam model, we quantified the notable high-mountain Hoh-Xil NCALs basin (including Lakes Zonag, Kusai, Hedin Noel, and Yanhu, from upstream to downstream) formed by the Lake Zonag outburst in September 2011. We demonstrate that long-term increased precipitation and accelerated ice and snow melting as well as short-term heavy precipitation and earthquake events were responsible for the Lake Zonag outburst; while the permafrost degradation only had a marginal impact on the lake inflows but was crucial to lakeshore stability. The quadrupling of the Lake Yanhu area since 2012 was due to the tripling of inflows (from 0.25 to 0.76 km3/year for 1999 to 2010 and 2012 to 2018, respectively). Prediction of the NCALs changes suggests a high risk of the downstream Qinghai–Tibet Railway, necessitating timely adaptions/mitigations.
Impaired Ability to Relax Pelvic Floor Muscles in Men With Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Authors: Yani Moheb S , Eckel Sandrah P , Kirages Daniel J , Rodriguez Larissa V , Corcos Daniel M , Kutch Jason J
Published: May 2022

Objective

Excessive pelvic floor muscle activity has been suggested as a source of pain in chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS). Our objective was to determine whether men with CP/CPPS have changes in neural drive that impair their ability to relax pelvic floor muscles.

Methods

We recruited 90 men (42 with CP/CPPS and 48 in the control group [without a history of pelvic pain]). All completed the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI). We quantified the ability to relax by comparing resting pelvic floor muscle activity under 2 conditions: a “rest-only” condition, in which participants were instructed to simply relax, and a “rest-between-contraction” condition, in which participants were instructed to rest for several seconds between voluntary pelvic floor muscle contractions. We used multivariate mixed-effects models to examine differences between the groups (men with CP/CPPS and men in the control group) as well as the effect of 6 symptoms captured by the NIH-CPSI: pain related to location (perineum, testicles, penis, suprapubic region) and activity (urination, ejaculation).

Results

Men with CP/CPPS were significantly different from men in the control group; men with CP/CPPS had higher resting activity in the rest-between-contraction condition than in the rest-only condition, whereas men in the control group had similar resting activities in both conditions. This effect was strongest in men who reported ejaculation-related pain, which was 70% of the CP/CPPS group.

Conclusion

Men without a history of pelvic pain were able to relax their pelvic floor muscles back to baseline after performing voluntary pelvic floor muscle contractions. In contrast, men with CP/CPPS, particularly those with ejaculation-related pain, had an impaired ability to relax their pelvic floor muscles.

Impact

This study may support the investigation of more personalized physical therapist approaches for CP/CPPS that enhance the ability to relax pelvic floor muscles as a mechanism for pain reduction.
Brain states in freely behaving marmosets
Authors: Bukhtiyarova Olga , Chauvette Sylvain , Seigneur Josée , Timofeev Igor
Published: May 2022

Study Objectives

We evaluated common marmosets as a perspective animal model to study human sleep and wake states.

Methods

Using wireless neurologger recordings, we performed longitudinal multichannel local field potential (LFP) cortical, hippocampal, neck muscle, and video recordings in three freely behaving marmosets. The brain states were formally identified using self-organizing maps.

Results

Marmosets were generally awake during the day with occasional 1–2 naps, and they slept during the night. Major electrographic patterns fall in five clearly distinguished categories: wakefulness, drowsiness, light and deep NREM sleep, and REM. Marmosets typically had 14–16 sleep cycles per night, with either gradually increasing or relatively low, but stable delta power within the cycle. Overall, the delta power decreased throughout the night sleep. Marmosets demonstrated prominent high amplitude somatosensory mu-rhythm (10–15 Hz), accompanied with neocortical ripples, and alternated with occipital alpha rhythm (10–15 Hz). NREM sleep was characterized with the presence of high amplitude slow waves, sleep spindles and ripples in neocortex, and sharp-wave-ripple complexes in CA1. Light and deep stages differed in levels of delta and sigma power and muscle tone. REM sleep was defined with low muscle tone and activated LFP with predominant beta-activity and rare spindle-like or mu-like events.

Conclusions

Multiple features of sleep–wake state distribution and electrographic patterns associated with behavioral states in marmosets closely match human states, although marmoset have shorter sleep cycles. This demonstrates that marmosets represent an excellent model to study origin of human electrographical rhythms and brain states.
Influence of Minimum Alveolar Concentration and Inhalation Duration of Sevoflurane on Facial Nerve Electromyography in Hemifacial Spasm: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yang Li-Na , Chen Chan , Zhao Dong-Dong , Hu Miao , Li Jia-Cen , Yang Meng-Chang
Published: May 2022

Background:

The lateral spread response (LSR) is an electromyography feature of hemifacial spasm; intraoperative reduction in the LSR is associated with positive surgical outcomes. This study examined the effects of different minimum alveolar concentrations (MACs) and durations of sevoflurane inhalation on the LSR.

Methods:

Eighty patients undergoing microvascular decompression surgery for hemifacial spasm were randomly allocated to receive propofol-remifentanil total intravenous anesthesia alone or in combination with sevoflurane at 0.5, 0.75, or 1 MAC. The LSR and orbicularis oculi muscle wave were recorded before and at 15 and 30 minutes after the start of sevoflurane administration.

Results:

Sevoflurane reduced the LSR amplitude in a dose-dependent and duration-dependent manner. The curve representing the LSR amplitude preservation ratio change according to sevoflurane concentration is best fitted by regression analysis using a cubic model, as the cubic equations had the largest coefficient of determination; at 15 minutes (R
2=0.76, F=78.36, P<0.05) and at 30 minutes (R
2=0.882, F=189.94, P<0.05). The inhibitory effect of sevoflurane on the LSR amplitude was greater in the first 15 minutes than in the second 15 minutes of sevoflurane administration. Sevoflurane at 1 MAC for 30 minutes mildly decreased the amplitude of the orbicularis oculi muscle wave. The latencies of the LSR and the orbicularis oculi muscle wave were not affected by sevoflurane at all MACs studied.

Conclusions:

The combination of intravenous propofol-remifentanil anesthesia with 0.5 MAC sevoflurane allows reliable intraoperative LSR monitoring in hemifacial spasm patients. Our findings support the central rather than peripheral hypothesis of the LSR.
Clinician Knowledge and Practices Related to a Patient History of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy
Authors: Ford Nicole D. , Robbins Cheryl L. , Nandi Nina , Hayes Donald K. , Loustalot Fleetwood , Kuklina Elena , Ko Jean Y.
Published: May 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To describe clinician screening practices for prior hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, knowledge of future risks associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, barriers and facilitators to referrals for cardiovascular disease risk evaluation in women with prior hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and variation by clinician- and practice-level characteristics.

METHODS:

We used data from Fall DocStyles 2020, a cross-sectional, web-based panel survey of currently practicing U.S. clinicians. Of 2,231 primary care physicians, obstetrician–gynecologists (ob-gyns), nurse practitioners, and physician assistants invited to participate, 67.3% (n=1,502) completed the survey. We calculated the prevalence of screening, knowledge of future risks, and barriers and facilitators to referrals, and assessed differences by clinician type using χ2tests. We evaluated associations between clinician- and practice-level characteristics and not screening using a multivariable log-binomial model.

RESULTS:

Overall, 73.6% of clinicians screened patients for a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy; ob-gyns reported the highest rate of screening (94.8%). Overall, 24.8% of clinicians correctly identified all cardiovascular risks associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy listed in the survey. Lack of patient follow-through (51.5%) and patient refusal (33.6%) were the most frequently cited barriers to referral. More referral options (42.9%), patient education materials (36.2%), and professional guidelines (34.1%) were the most frequently cited resources needed to facilitate referrals. In the multivariable model, primary care physicians and nurse practitioners, as well as physician assistants, were more likely than ob-gyns to report not screening (adjusted prevalence ratio 5.54, 95% CI 3.24–9.50, and adjusted prevalence ratio 7.42, 95% CI 4.27–12.88, respectively). Clinicians seeing fewer than 80 patients per week (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.81, 95% CI 1.43–2.28) were more likely to not screen relative to those seeing 110 or more patients per week.

CONCLUSION:

Three quarters of clinicians reported screening for a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy; however, only one out of four clinicians correctly identified all of the cardiovascular risks associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy listed in the survey.
Utilization and Outcomes of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy for Early Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Matsuo Koji , Klar Maximilian , Nusbaum David J. , Hasanov Mir Fuad , Vallejo Andrew , Ciesielski Katharine M. , Muderspach Laila I. , Roman Lynda D. , Wright Jason D.
Published: May 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To examine trends, characteristics, and oncologic outcomes of sentinel lymph node biopsy for early endometrial cancer.

METHODS:

This observational study queried the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program by examining 83,139 women with endometrial cancer who underwent primary hysterectomy with nodal evaluation for T1 disease from 2003 to 2018. Primary outcome measures were the temporal trends in utilization of sentinel lymph node biopsy and patient characteristics associated with sentinel lymph node biopsy use, assessed by multivariable binary logistic regression models. Secondary outcome measure was endometrial cancer–specific mortality associated with sentinel lymph node biopsy, assessed by propensity score inverse probability of treatment weighting.

RESULTS:

The utilization of sentinel lymph node biopsy increased from 0.2 to 29.7% from 2005 to 2018 (P<.001). The uptake was higher for women with endometrioid (0.3–31.6% between 2005 and 2018) compared with nonendometrioid (0.6–21.0% between 2006 and 2018) histologic subtypes (both P<.001). In a multivariable analysis, more recent year surgery, endometrioid histology, well-differentiated tumors, T1a disease, and smaller tumor size were independently associated with sentinel lymph node biopsy use (P<.05). Performance of sentinel lymph node biopsy was not associated with increased endometrial cancer–specific mortality compared with lymphadenectomy for endometrioid tumors (subdistribution hazard ratio [HR] 0.96, 95% CI 0.82–1.13) or nonendometrioid tumors (subdistribution HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.69–1.04). For low-risk endometrial cancer, the increase in sentinel lymph node biopsy resulted in a 15.3 percentage-point (1.4-fold) increase in surgical nodal evaluation by 2018 (expected vs observed rates, 37.8 vs 53.1%).

CONCLUSION:

The landscape of surgical nodal evaluation is shifting from lymphadenectomy to sentinel lymph node biopsy for early endometrial cancer in the United States, with no indication of a negative effect on cancer-specific survival.
Complicated multiple organ infection of Purpureocillium lilacinum and varicella-zoster virus infection in a patient with Evans’ syndrome
Authors: Hu Xiangrong , Zhang Li , Lin Qingsong , Zhang Fengkui , Zhao Xin
Published: May 2022

Purpureocillium lilacinum (P lilacinum) is a rare pathogenic fungus, which mainly involves immunocompromised individuals. Here, we report a case of complicated multiple-organ infections involving skin, lungs, and spleen in a 63-year-old female with Evans’ syndrome after 9 months of glucocorticoid treatment. Microbial examinations of skin biopsy and blood samples revealed P lilacinum infections. Posaconazole was effective in this patient. During anti-fungi treatment, she developed varicella-zoster virus infection and was diagnosed through next-generation sequencing examination. In conclusion, P lilacinum may affect different organ systems and is susceptible to posaconazole treatment. The molecular-based methods like microbial cell-free DNA sequencing could provide accurate and timely identification of a wide range of infections.
Congenital Long QT Syndrome: A Review of Genetic and Pathophysiologic Etiologies, Phenotypic Subtypes, and Clinical Management
Authors: Pandit Maya , Finn Caitlin , Tahir Usman A. , Frishman William H.
Published: May 2022

Congenital Long QT Syndrome (CLQTS) is the most common inherited arrhythmia. The QT interval, which marks the duration of ventricular depolarization and repolarization in the myocardium, can be prolonged due to mutations in genes coding for the ion channel proteins that govern the cardiac action potential. The lengthening of the QT interval can lead to a wide range of clinical symptoms, including seizures, torsades de pointes, and fatal arrhythmias. There is a growing body of evidence that has revealed the genetic mutations responsible for the pathophysiology of CLQTS, and this has led to hypotheses regarding unique triggers and clinical features associated with specific gene mutations. Epidemiologic evidence has revealed a 1-year mortality rate of approximately 20% in untreated CLQTS patients, and a <1% of 1-year mortality rate in treated patients, underscoring the importance of timely diagnosis and effective clinical management. There are many phenotypic syndromes that constitute CLQTS, including but not limited to, Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome, Romano and Ward syndrome, Andersen-Tawil syndrome, and Timothy syndrome. In this review, we aim to (1) summarize the genetic, epidemiologic, and pathophysiological basis of CLQTS and (2) outline the unique features of the phenotypic subtypes and their clinical management.
Research Highlights
Authors: Barrolle Shimika , Brickley Sylvana , Baughman Lauren , Marichal Mickaela
Published: May 2022

This series of research highlights discusses recent studies on potassium monitoring of young healthy women treated for acne with spironolactone, adverse effects of low-dose oral minoxidil, and issues in transgender dermatology.
Recurrent KAT6B/A::KANSL1 Fusions Characterize a Potentially Aggressive Uterine Sarcoma Morphologically Overlapping With Low-grade Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma
Authors: Agaimy Abbas , Clarke Blaise A. , Kolin David L. , Lee Cheng-Han , Lee Jen-Chieh , McCluggage W. Glenn , Pöschke Patrik , Stoehr Robert , Swanson David , Turashvili Gulisa , Beckmann Matthias W. , Hartmann Arndt , Antonescu Cristina R. , Dickson Brendan C.
Published: May 2022

With the widespread application of next-generation sequencing, the genetic landscape of uterine mesenchymal neoplasms has been evolving rapidly to include several recently identified fusion genes. Although chromosomal rearrangements involving the 10q22 and 17q21.31 loci have been reported in occasional uterine leiomyomas decades ago, the corresponding KAT6B::KANSL1 fusion has been only recently identified in 2 uterine tumors diagnosed as leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma. We herein describe 13 uterine stromal neoplasms carrying a KAT6B::KANSL1 (n=11) and KAT6A::KANSL1 (n=2) fusion. Patient ages ranged from 33 to 81 years (median, 49 y). Tumor size was 2.6 to 23.5 cm (median, 8.2 cm). Nine tumors were myometrium-centered, and 3 had an intracavitary component. Original diagnoses were mostly low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (LG-ESS; 10 cases) with atypical features (limited CD10 expression, sex cord-like features, pericytic vasculature, and frequent myxoid changes). Treatment was hysterectomy±bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (10), myomectomy (1), and curettage (2). Five patients were disease-free at 6 to 34 months, 3 (27%) died of disease at 2 to 47 months, and 3 were alive with disease at 2, 17, and 17 years. Histologically, most tumors showed variable overlap with LG-ESS, but they were generally well-circumscribed lacking the extensive permeative and angioinvasive growth typical of LG-ESS. They were composed of monotonous medium-sized oval and spindle cells arranged into diffuse sheets with prominent spiral-type arterioles and frequent pericytoma-like vascular pattern. Variable myxoid stromal changes were frequent. Mitotic activity ranged from 1 to >20 in 10 HPFs. Immunohistochemistry showed variable expression of CD10 (12/13), estrogen receptor (8/11), progesterone receptor (8/11), smooth muscle actin (9/11), desmin (4/12), h-caldesmon (2/10), calretinin (3/8), inhibin (1/7), WT1 (4/7), cyclin D1 (5/11; diffuse in only 1 case), and pankeratin (5/10). This series characterizes a KAT6B/A::KANSL1 fusion-positive uterine stromal neoplasm within the morphologic spectrum of LG-ESS but with atypical features. The relationship of these neoplasms to genuine LG-ESS remains unclear. This molecular subtype of uterine endometrial stromal sarcoma has the potential for an unfavorable clinical course despite the absence of widely invasive growth; nevertheless, analysis of more cases is necessary to delineate the phenotypic spectrum and biological potential of this tumor.
Nodular Lymphocyte–predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma With Nodular Sclerosis
Authors: El Hussein Siba , Wang Xiaoqiong , Fang Hong , Jelloul Fatima Zahra , Wang Wei , Loghavi Sanam , Vega Francisco , Miranda Roberto N. , Muzzafar Tariq , Manning John T. , Khoury Joseph D. , Burack W. Richard , Evans Andrew G. , Medeiros L. Jeffrey
Published: May 2022

Nodular lymphocyte–predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) with unusual features, including some that can overlap morphologically with classic Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL), have been described. Herein, we describe 12 cases of NLPHL with fibrous bands and capsular fibrosis resembling, in part, nodular sclerosis (NS) CHL. Seven of 12 cases harbored Reed-Sternberg–like cells, further suggestive of CHL, but all cases lacked associated eosinophils and/or plasma cells in the background. In this cohort, all cases had areas of so-called pattern D (nodular T-cell rich) as a sole component in 7 (58%) cases or as a hybrid pattern along with pattern E (diffuse T-cell/histiocyte-rich) in 5 (42%) cases. The immunophenotype of the large neoplastic cells in these cases supported their being lymphocyte predominant cells of NLPHL, positive for CD20, CD79a, and OCT2, and negative for CD15 and CD30. However, PAX5 was weak in 9 of 11 cases similar to Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg cells in CHL. We conclude that some cases of NLPHL are associated with fibrous bands and capsular fibrosis and resemble, in part, NS CHL. In our experience, NLPHL with NS-like features occurs in 10% to 15% of cases of NLPHL and is associated with a variant pattern (D and/or E). In addition, all patients in this cohort were not treated before biopsy, suggesting that the prominent sclerosis in these cases is inherent to disease biology. Recognition of NLPHL with NS-like features further expands the morphologic spectrum of NLPHL and helps avoid potential misdiagnosis as CHL.
Strategies for the Treatment of Auricular Complications after the First Stage of Autologous Cartilage Microtia Reconstruction
Authors: Xu Zhicheng , Li Tianya , Zhang Ruhong , Zhang Qun , Xu Feng , Li Datao , Li Yiyuan , Chen Xia
Published: May 2022

Background:

Effective handling of auricular complications after the first stage of autologous cartilage microtia reconstruction remains one of the most demanding challenges for plastic surgeons. Here, the authors discuss relevant details for treatment of such complications in various conditions.

Methods:

A total of 1739 microtia patients underwent the first stage of auricular reconstruction with autogenous costal cartilage between 2007 and 2019. Different complications occurred in 136 cases. The details of complications are described, and relevant tactics for appropriate prevention and treatment are introduced.

Results:

Selective methods for the management of different complications in a prompt and effective manner after the first stage of ear reconstruction have been shown to salvage and maintain the contour of the reconstructed auricle to the maximum extent.

Conclusion:

Auricular complications can be well treated and prevented through careful preoperative preparation, meticulous intraoperative manipulation, and proper postoperative management.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Evaluation of Interstitial Lung Disease in Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies Through Semiquantitative and Quantitative Analysis of Lung Computed Tomography
Authors: Roncella Claudia , Barsotti Simone , Valentini Adele , Cavagna Lorenzo , Castellana Roberto , Cioffi Elisa , Tripoli Alessandra , Zanframundo Giovanni , Biglia Alessandro , Bartholmai Brian , De Liperi Annalisa , Mosca Marta , Romei Chiara
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

To perform a semiquantitative and quantitative analysis of interstitial lung disease (ILD), through computed tomography (CT), in different serological subgroups of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) patients, to find radiologic and clinical differences of disease related to serology.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective study, which included 98 IIM patients, divided into serological subgroups: anti-aminoacyl-transfer-RNA-synthetases (anti-ARS) positive and myositis-specific autoantibodies (MSA) negative.

For each baseline CT the total semiquantitative score of Warrick (WS) and the automated software (Computer-Aided Lung Informatics for Pathology Evaluation and Rating) quantitative scores interstitial lung disease % (ILD%) and vascular-related structure % (VRS%) were calculated. Pulmonary function tests included total lung capacity % (TLC%), forced vital capacity % (FVC%), and diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide % (DLCO%).

Results:

Inverse correlations (P<0.001) between the radiologic scores and the functional scores DLCO% and TLC% were found, the most relevant being between ILD% and DLCO% (ρ=−0.590), VRS% and DLCO% (ρ=−0.549), and WS and DLCO% (ρ=−0.471).

Positive correlations between ILD% and VRS% (ρ=0.916; P<0.001), WS and ILD% (ρ=0.663; ρ<0.001), and WS and VRS% (ρ=0.637; P<0.001) were obtained.

Statistically significant higher values of WS, ILD%, and VRS% were found in the anti-ARS group (WS=15; ILD%=11; VRS%=3.5) compared with the MSA negative one (WS=2.5; ILD%=0.84; VRS%=2.2).

The nonspecific interstitial pneumonia pattern was dominant. No statistically significant differences emerged at pulmonary function tests.

Conclusions:

In this study, ILD in anti-ARS-positive and MSA-negative groups was defined through semiquantitative and quantitative analysis of lung CT. The inverse correlations between the radiologic scores and TLC% and DLCO% (P<0.001) confirm the role of lung CT in the evaluation of ILD in IIM.
My Deep Sea, My Backyard: a pilot study to build capacity for global deep-ocean exploration and research
Authors: Amon Diva J. , Rotjan Randi D. , Kennedy Brian R. C. , Alleng Gerard , Anta Rafael , Aram Eriatera , Edwards Thera , Creary-Ford Marcia , Gjerde Kristina M. , Gobin Judith , Henderson Laura-Ashley , Hope Alexis , Ali Raquel Khan , Lanser Sebastian , Lewis Keith , Lochan Hannah , MacLean Scott , Mwemwenikarawa Nabuti , Phillips Brennan , Rimon Betarim , Sarjursingh Stacey-Ann , Teemari Tooreka , Tekiau Aranteiti , Turchik Alan , Vallès Henri , Waysang Kareati , Bell Katherine L. C.
Published: May 2022

The deep ocean is the largest ecosystem on the planet, constituting greater than 90% of all habitable space. Over three-quarters of countries globally have deep ocean within their Exclusive Economic Zones. While maintaining deep-ocean function is key to ensuring planetary health, deficiencies in knowledge and governance, as well as inequitable global capacity, challenge our ability to safeguard the resilience of this vast realm, leaving the fate of the deep ocean in the hands of a few. Historically, deep-ocean scientific exploration and research have been the purview of a limited number of nations, resulting in most of humankind not knowing the deep ocean within their national jurisdiction or beyond. In this article, we highlight the inequities and need for increased deep-ocean knowledge generation, and discuss experiences in piloting an innovative project ‘My Deep Sea, My Backyard’ toward this goal. Recognizing that many deep-ocean endeavours take place in countries without deep-ocean access, this project aimed to reduce dependency on external expertise and promote local efforts in two small island developing states, Trinidad and Tobago and Kiribati, to explore their deep-sea backyards using comparatively low-cost technology while building lasting in-country capacity. We share lessons learned so future efforts can bring us closer to achieving this goal.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Nurturing resilient marine ecosystems’.
Nature-based solutions for atoll habitability
Authors: Barnett Jon , Jarillo Sergio , Swearer Stephen E. , Lovelock Catherine E. , Pomeroy Andrew , Konlechner Teresa , Waters Elissa , Morris Rebecca L. , Lowe Ryan
Published: May 2022

Atoll societies have adapted their environments and social systems for thousands of years, but the rapid pace of climate change may bring conditions that exceed their adaptive capacities. There is growing interest in the use of ‘nature-based solutions' to facilitate the continuation of dignified and meaningful lives on atolls through a changing climate. However, there remains insufficient evidence to conclude that these can make a significant contribution to adaptation on atolls, let alone to develop standards and guidelines for their implementation. A sustained programme of research to clarify the potential of nature-based solutions to support the habitability of atolls is therefore vital. In this paper, we provide a prospectus to guide this research programme: we explain the challenge climate change poses to atoll societies, discuss past and potential future applications of nature-based solutions and outline an agenda for transdisciplinary research to advance knowledge of the efficacy and feasibility of nature-based solutions to sustain the habitability of atolls.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Nurturing resilient marine ecosystems’.
Institutionalizing the Blue Economy: an examination of variations and consistencies among Commonwealth countries
Authors: Voyer Michelle , Benzaken Dominique , Rambourg Constance
Published: May 2022

The Blue Economy is a catch all term that is used to describe a wide variety of development approaches and priorities in the ocean and coastal areas. A number of distinct, and sometimes conflicting discourses have emerged in relation to the Blue Economy, which are distinguished by the degree to which they prioritize different development objectives. This paper explores the range of Blue Economy interpretations, governance strategies and implementation approaches that exist across Commonwealth countries. Key Blue Economy policy statements and governance instruments are analysed in order to ascertain the way the Blue Economy is being institutionalized at a national level, with reference to the Sustainable Development Goals and the Commonwealth Blue Charter. High-level Blue Economy objectives appear to prioritize economic and environmental objectives, with limited engagement with equity objectives including food security and gender equality. Blue Economy objectives are primarily being institutionalized through a diverse array of strategies, plans and policies with limited information on mechanisms for implementation. Finally, there are signs that the Blue Economy may be facilitating a greater degree of integration across sectoral management, with the emergence of range of boundary-crossing arrangements in a number of the countries examined.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Nurturing resilient marine ecosystems’.
Managed retreat and planned retreat: a systematic literature review
Authors: O'Donnell Tayanah
Published: May 2022

Vulnerable locations, such as coastlines, are at a high risk of loss and damage. Such places will suffer deleterious impacts as climate change impacts are increasingly realized. As societies try to adapt to these impacts, managed or planned retreat—aimed at moving people and assets away from vulnerable locations—is gaining increased attention. Despite this increased attention, systematic literature reviews of the retreat literature remain scarce. This paper undertakes such review and uncovers a marked increase in retreat scholarly research papers in the past 5 years. An analysis of 135 managed and planned retreat journal articles is completed. Findings include a strong emphasis on regional or local case studies exploring governance, policy or institutional settings and levers across a range of geographies. Property rights and market interventions, such as compensation schemes, evidence the prevalence of neoliberal predilections. This emphasizes the importance of renewed engagement with political economy scholarship vis-à-vis climate change adaptation, also supported by the sharp increase in the evidenced social and environmental justice impacts.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Nurturing resilient marine ecosystems’.
Accounting for direct and indirect cumulative effects of anthropogenic pressures on salmon- and herring-linked land and ocean ecosystems
Authors: Tulloch Vivitskaia J. D. , Adams Megan S. , Martin Tara G. , Tulloch Ayesha I. T. , Martone Rebecca , Avery-Gomm Stephanie , Murray Cathryn C.
Published: May 2022

Salmon and herring support both land and ocean predators and are critical to ecosystem resilience. Their linkages across land and sea realms make them highly susceptible to human activities, which can have flow-on effects up the food web. We quantify and compare the potential cumulative effects of human-driven pressures on interdependent species in salmon- and herring-linked ecosystems of western Canada using a risk assessment methodology. Adding indirect risks resulted in 68% greater total risks for land species than for direct risk alone, versus 15% for marine species. Inclusion of climate change pressures resulted in the greatest change in risk for low trophic marine species and habitats (greater than 25% increase). Forestry-related pressures accounted for the highest risk to all species and projected management of these pressures resulted in a total reduction of risk across all ecosystem components that was more than 14% greater than management of fisheries pressures. Ignoring land food web linkages and pressures underestimated cumulative risk by more than 40% for salmon and herring. This simple framework can be used to evaluate potential risk of existing human uses and future change to inform immediate management of linked land-sea ecosystems and help species avoid the ‘death by a thousand cuts'.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Nurturing resilient marine ecosystems’.
The super wicked problem of ocean health: a socio-ecological and behavioural perspective
Authors: de Salas Kristy , Scott Jennifer Louise , Schüz Benjamin , Norris Kimberley
Published: May 2022

We are dependent on our oceans for economic, health and social benefits; however, demands on our oceans are escalating, and the state of the oceans is deteriorating. Only 2% of countries are on track to achieve the desired outcomes for the sustainable development goal (SDG 14) for the oceans by 2030, and the changes needed to prevent further degradation, or limit the impact of existing degradation, are not being undertaken fast enough. This paper uses a socio-ecological lens to explore the nature of actors and behaviours for change at the local, community, state, national and international levels, and introduces the need for technology, information- and knowledge-sharing, and policy as interconnected mediators, that work both in concert, and independently, to address the ‘super wicked’ problem of ocean health and to promote resilience. We recommend the need to develop transformational teams and leaders, as well as transformative policies within a holistic and integrated system to ensure ocean health initiatives are greater than the sum of their parts and are actual, realistic, achievable and evidence-informed pathways to change.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Nurturing resilient marine ecosystems’.
Proving the correctness of the algorithm for building a crystallographic space group
Authors: Petrauskas Karolis , Merkys Andrius , Vaitkus Antanas , Laibinis Linas , Gražulis Saulius
Published: May 2022

An application of formal verification (using the proof assistant Isabelle/HOL) for ensuring the correctness of scientific data processing software in the crystallographic domain is presented. The proposed process consists of writing a pseudocode that describes an algorithm in a succinct but mathematically unambiguous way, then formulating or reusing necessary Isabelle theories and proving algorithm properties within these theories, and finally implementing the algorithm in a practical programming language. Both the formal proof and the semi-formal algorithm analysis are demonstrated on an example of a simple but important algorithm (widely used in crystallographic computing) that reconstructs a space-group operator list from a subset of symmetry operators. The cod-tools software package that implements the verified algorithm is also presented. On the basis of the reported results, it is argued that broader application of formal methods (e.g. formal verification of algorithm correctness) allows developers to improve the reliability of scientific software. Moreover, the formalized (within the proof assistant) domain-specific theory can be reused and gradually extended, thus continuously increasing the automation level of formal algorithm verification.
Implementing and evaluating far-field 3D X-ray diffraction at the I12 JEEP beamline, Diamond Light Source
Authors: Ball James A. D. , Kareer Anna , Magdysyuk Oxana V. , Michalik Stefan , Vrettou Anastasia , Parkes Neal , Connolley Thomas , Collins David M.
Published: May 2022

Three-dimensional X-ray diffraction (3DXRD) is shown to be feasible at the I12 Joint Engineering, Environmental and Processing (JEEP) beamline of Diamond Light Source. As a demonstration, a microstructually simple low-carbon ferritic steel was studied in a highly textured and annealed state. A processing pipeline suited to this beamline was created, using software already established in the 3DXRD user community, enabling grain centre-of-mass positions, orientations and strain tensor elements to be determined. Orientations, with texture measurements independently validated from electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) data, possessed a ∼0.1° uncertainty, comparable with other 3DXRD instruments. The spatial resolution was limited by the far-field detector pixel size; the average of the grain centre of mass position errors was determined as ±∼80 µm. An average per-grain error of ∼1 × 10−3 for the elastic strains was also measured; this could be reduced in future experiments by improving sample preparation, geometry calibration, data collection and analysis techniques. Application of 3DXRD onto I12 shows great potential, where its implementation is highly desirable due to the flexible, open architecture of the beamline. User-owned or designed sample environments can be used, thus 3DXRD could be applied to previously unexplored scientific areas.
A comparison of three crystalline forms of miconazole: solvent-free, ethanol monosolvate and hemihydrate
Authors: Kaspiaruk Hanna , Chęcińska Lilianna
Published: May 2022

The crystal structures of miconazole {MIC, C18H14Cl4N2O, systematic name (RS)-1-[2-(2,4-dichlorobenzyloxy)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)ethyl]-1H-imidazole}, its ethanol monosolvate (C18H14Cl4N2O·C2H5OH) and its hemihydrate (C18H14Cl4N2O·0.5H2O) were compared. A detailed comparison of the molecular conformation of the miconazole molecules showed a structural similarity of the solvate forms, whereas the unsolvated form is related to the gas-phase structure. This suggests that the molecular conformation of miconazole is influenced by solvent molecules. The crystal architectures of the considered solvatomorphs are differentiated by the intermolecular interactions formed by ethanol and water molecules. The structural studies are enriched by Hirshfeld surface and energy framework analysis. The pairwise model energies of the dominant contacts were estimated to be in the range 20–70 kJ mol−1. It is interesting that the contribution of dispersive forces predominates over the electrostatic forces.
The underlying mechanisms of the relationships between corporate financial policies and firm value: flexibility and agency theory perspectives
Authors: El-Ansary Osama , Hamza Hatem Fouad
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to discover the underlying mechanisms by which corporate financial policies, cash holdings, capital structure and dividend payouts, transmit their effects on firm value in the “Middle East and North Africa” (MENA) emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ a novel integration of path modelling with parallel multiple mediation analysis to empirically test the hypothesised indirect effects through the mechanisms represented by the value of financial flexibility (VOFF) and agency costs.

Findings

The authors do not find any evidence of the association between cash holdings, dividend payouts, and firm value when the mechanisms through the VOFF and agency costs are considered. While these two forces, i.e. the VOFF and agency costs, have balanced mediation effects on the relationship between cash holdings and firm value, they represent equivalent and complementary mechanisms by which dividend payouts transmit their positive impact on firm value. Moreover, we document a significant negative partial mediation effect of agency costs on the relationship between leverage and firm value; however, we do not find any evidence supporting the mediation effect of the VOFF on such a relationship.

Originality/value

This paper sheds new light on the forces that govern the nature of the relationships between corporate financial policies and firm value.