bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterotic quantitative trait loci analysis and genomic prediction of seedling biomass-related traits in maize triple testcross populations
Authors: Zhang Tifu , Jiang Lu , Ruan Long , Qian Yiliang , Liang Shuaiqiang , Lin Feng , Lu Haiyan , Dai Huixue , Zhao Han
Published: July 2021

Background

Heterosis has been widely used in maize breeding. However, we know little about the heterotic quantitative trait loci and their roles in genomic prediction. In this study, we sought to identify heterotic quantitative trait loci for seedling biomass-related traits using triple testcross design and compare their prediction accuracies by fitting molecular markers and heterotic quantitative trait loci.

Results

A triple testcross population comprised of 366 genotypes was constructed by crossing each of 122 intermated B73 × Mo17 genotypes with B73, Mo17, and B73 × Mo17. The mid-parent heterosis of seedling biomass-related traits involved in leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, and seedling dry weight displayed a large range, from less than 50 to ~ 150%. Relationships between heterosis of seedling biomass-related traits showed congruency with that between performances. Based on a linkage map comprised of 1631 markers, 14 augmented additive, two augmented dominance, and three dominance × additive epistatic quantitative trait loci for heterosis of seedling biomass-related traits were identified, with each individually explaining 4.1–20.5% of the phenotypic variation. All modes of gene action, i.e., additive, partially dominant, dominant, and overdominant modes were observed. In addition, ten additive × additive and six dominance × dominance epistatic interactions were identified. By implementing the general and special combining ability model, we found that prediction accuracy ranged from 0.29 for leaf length to 0.56 for leaf width. Different number of marker analysis showed that ~ 800 markers almost capture the largest prediction accuracies. When incorporating the heterotic quantitative trait loci into the model, we did not find the significant change of prediction accuracy, with only leaf length showing the marginal improvement by 1.7%.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that the triple testcross design is suitable for detecting heterotic quantitative trait loci and evaluating the prediction accuracy. Seedling leaf width can be used as the representative trait for seedling prediction. The heterotic quantitative trait loci are not necessary for genomic prediction of seedling biomass-related traits.
An Investigation of Levetiracetam in Alzheimer’s Disease (ILiAD): a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised crossover proof of concept study
Authors: Sen Arjune , Akinola Mary , Tai Xin You , Symmonds Mkael , Davis Jones Gabriel , Mura Sergio , Galloway Joanne , Hallam Angela , Chan Jane Y. C. , Koychev Ivan , Butler Chris , Geddes John , Van Der Putt Rohan , Thompson Sian , Manohar Sanjay G. , Frangou Eleni , Love Sharon , McShane Rupert , Husain Masud
Published: July 2021

Background

Although Alzheimer’s disease affects around 800,000 people in the UK and costs almost £23 billion per year, currently licenced treatments only offer modest benefit at best. Seizures, which are more common in patients with Alzheimer’s disease than age matched controls, may contribute to the loss of nerve cells and abnormal brain discharges can disrupt cognition. This aberrant electrical activity may therefore present potentially important drug targets. The anti-seizure medication levetiracetam can reduce abnormal cortical discharges and reverse memory deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. Levetiracetam has also been shown to improve memory difficulties in patients with mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical use of levetiracetam is well-established in treatment of epilepsy and extensive safety data are available. Levetiracetam thus has the potential to provide safe and efficacious treatment to help with memory difficulties in Alzheimer’s disease.

Methods

The proposed project is a proof of concept study to test whether levetiracetam can help cognitive function in people with dementia. We plan to recruit thirty patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease with no history of previous seizures or other significant co-morbidity. Participants will be allocated to a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial that tests levetiracetam against placebo. Standardised scales to assess cognition and a computer-based touchscreen test that we have developed to better detect subtle improvements in hippocampal function will be used to measure changes in memory. All participants will have an electroencephalogram (EEG) at baseline. The primary outcome measure is a change in the computer-based touchscreen cognitive task while secondary outcomes include the effect of levetiracetam on mood, quality of life and modelling of the EEG, including time series measures and feature-based analysis to see whether the effect of levetiracetam can be predicted. The effect of levetiracetam and placebo will be compared within a given patient using the paired t-test and the analysis of covariance adjusting for baseline values.

Discussion

This is the first study to evaluate if an anti-seizure medication can offer meaningful benefit to patients with Alzheimer’s disease. If this study demonstrates at least stabilisation of memory function and/or good tolerability, the next step will be to rapidly progress to a larger study to establish whether levetiracetam may be a useful and cost-effective treatment for patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT03489044. Registered on April 5, 2018.
Prevention of chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency in mice by scaffold-based local delivery of human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells
Authors: Shin Eun-Young , Kim Da-Seul , Lee Min Ji , Lee Ah Reum , Shim Sung Han , Baek Seung Woon , Han Dong Keun , Lee Dong Ryul
Published: July 2021

Background

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is one of the most serious side effects of chemotherapy in young cancer survivors. It may not only reduce fecundity but also affect lifelong health. There is no standard therapy for preserving ovarian health after chemotherapy. Recently, administration of embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells (ESC-MPCs) has been considered a new therapeutic option for preventing POI. However, the previous method of directly injecting cells into the veins of patients exhibits low efficacy and safety. This study aimed to develop safe and effective local delivery methods for the prevention of POI using two types of bioinspired scaffolds.

Methods

Female mice received intraperitoneal cisplatin for 10 days. On day 11, human ESC-MPCs were delivered through systemic administration using intravenous injection or local administration using intradermal injection and intradermal transplantation with a PLGA/MH sponge or hyaluronic acid (HA) gel (GEL) type of scaffold. PBS was injected intravenously as a negative control. Ovarian function and fertility were evaluated 4 weeks after transplantation. Follicle development was observed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The plasma levels of sex hormones were measured using ELISA. Expression levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and ki-67 were detected using immunostaining, and the quality of oocytes and embryos was evaluated after in vitro fertilization. The estrous cycles were observed at 2 months after transplantation.

Results

The local administration of human ESC-MPCs using the bioinspired scaffold to the backs of mice effectively prolonged the cell survival rate in vivo. The HA GEL group exhibited the best recovered ovarian functions, including a significantly increased number of ovarian reserves, estrogen levels, and AMH levels and decreased apoptotic levels. Furthermore, the HA GEL group showed improved quality of oocytes and embryos and estrous cycle regularity.

Conclusions

HA GEL scaffolds can be used as new delivery platforms for ESC-MPC therapy, and this method may provide a novel option for the clinical treatment of chemotherapy-induced POI.
On analysis of a nonlinear fractional system for social media addiction involving Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo derivative
Authors: Kongson Jutarat , Sudsutad Weerawat , Thaiprayoon Chatthai , Alzabut Jehad , Tearnbucha Chutarat
Published: July 2021

A mathematical model for the dynamic systems of$\mathbb{SMA}$SMAinvolving the$\mathbb{ABC}$ABC-fractional derivative is considered in this manuscript. We examine the basic reproduction number and analyze the stability of the equilibrium points. We prove the theoretical results of the existence and Ulam’s stability of the solutions for the proposed model using fixed point theory and nonlinear analytic techniques. Using the Adams type predictor–corrector rule for the$\mathbb{ABC}$ABC-fractional integral operator, a numerical scheme is devised for obtaining the approximate solution of the proposed model. Different numerical plots corresponding to various fractional orders are presented. In addition, we demonstrate a numerical simulation for the transmission of social media addiction in two cases with the basic reproduction numbers greater than and less than one.
Prevalence, risk factors, and complications associated with hyponatraemia following elective primary hip and knee arthroplasty
Authors: Cunningham Emma , Gallagher Nicola , Hamilton Paul , Bryce Leeann , Beverland David
Published: August 2021

Background

Hyponatraemia, defined as a serum sodium [Na] concentration below 135 mmol/L, is common following surgery. As inpatient peri-operative stays shorten, there is a need to recognise pre-operative risk factors for post-operative hyponatraemia and complications associated with a peri-operative drop in Na. This audit aimed to investigate the prevalence of, risk factors for, and complications associated with hyponatraemia following elective primary hip and knee arthroplasty.

Methods

Data were collected within a retrospective audit of inpatient complications and unplanned reattendance or readmission at hospital in consecutive elective primary hip and knee arthroplasty patients in a single high throughput elective primary joint unit. The hospital’s electronic database identified 1000 patients who were admitted electively between February 2012 and June 2013 under the care of a single consultant orthopaedic surgeon for either total hip arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty, or uni-compartmental knee arthroplasty. Groups were compared using appropriate tests, including chi-square analysis (or Fisher’s exact test), Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Wilcoxin signed-rank test. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with hyponatraemia.

Results

Of the total 1000 patients, 217 (21.7%) developed post-operative hyponatraemia. Of these, 177 (81.6%) had mild (Na 130–134 mmol/L), 37 (17.1%) had moderate (Na 125–129 mmol/L), and 3 (1.4%) had severe (Na < 125 mmol/L) hyponatraemia. In multivariate analysis, age, pre-operative Na, and fasting glucose on day 1 remained significantly associated with having hyponatraemia post-operatively. There were no significant differences in reattendance at emergency departments and/or readmission within 90 days between those who had post-operative hyponatraemia whilst in hospital (39/217 = 18.0%) and those who did not (103/783 = 13.2%), or between those who were discharged with hyponatraemia (18/108 = 16.7%) and those discharged with normal Na (124/880 = 14.1%).

Conclusion

Approximately one fifth of elective joint arthroplasty patients had post-operative hyponatraemia. In these patients, older age, lower pre-operative Na and higher fasting glucose predicted post-operative hyponatraemia. We found no evidence that those discharged with hyponatraemia had more reattendance at emergency departments or readmission to hospital. We suggest that otherwise well patients with mild hyponatraemia can safely be discharged and followed up in the community.
Measuring antioxidant activity in yellow corn (Zea mays L.) inbreds from three different geographic regions
Authors: Bae Hwan-Hee , Yi Gibum , Go Young Sam , Ha Jun Young , Choi Yuchan , Son Jae-Han , Shin Seonghyu , Jung Tae-Wook , Lee Sungwoo
Published: August 2021

Corn (Zea mays L.) provides a major source of calories for human consumption and therefore, the nutritional components of corn have a large impact on human health. For example, corn kernels contain antioxidants, such as polyphenols (including anthocyanins and other flavonoids) and carotenoids. Such compounds represent useful targets for biofortification breeding. In this study, we used 34 corn inbred lines from three different regions (East Asia, Southern Asia, and subtropical regions) and 11 F1 hybrids derived from the inbreds to investigate antioxidant activity in yellow corn. We compared different methods for measuring antioxidant activity to test their consistency and to determine whether color could be used as an indicator of antioxidant activity. We also measured carotenoid levels in yellow corn. No difference in antioxidant activity was detected between inbred corn lines from temperate vs. tropical regions. We determined that carotenoid is a major contributor to antioxidant activity in yellow corn and that kernel color, especially yellowness, could be used as an indicator of antioxidant activity in yellow corn. These findings lay the foundation for the biofortification of yellow corn by providing information about the correlations among kernel color, carotenoid contents, and antioxidant activity and by identifying an easy method to assess antioxidant activity in yellow corn.
Civic universities and bottom-up approaches to boost local development of rural areas: the case of the University of Macerata
Authors: Sabrina Tomasi , Alessio Cavicchi , Chiara Aleffi , Gigliola Paviotti , Concetta Ferrara , Federica Baldoni , Paolo Passarini
Published: August 2021

The aim of this paper is to provide a review of the main roles HEIs can play in rural areas. A longitudinal case study about the civic engagement of the University of Macerata - UNIMC (Italy) is presented, by assessing its attempt to fulfil its third and fourth mission through the application of the Quadruple Helix and 3 Model and by implementing the Civic University’s dimensions. Furthermore, these aspects have been investigated through the university-business collaboration and the community-academic-collaboration frameworks. More specifically, the paper focussed on UNIMC’s commitment at a local level analysing its involvement in local and international projects for place and agri-food product marketing, place branding and rural development, promoted by a research team within the Department of Education, Cultural Heritage and Tourism.
Is the 4-factor model of symptomology equivalent across bipolar disorder subtypes?
Authors: O’Rourke Norm , Sixsmith Andrew , Michael Tal , Bachner Yaacov G.
Published: August 2021

Background

Research with the BDSx (Bipolar Disorder Symptom Scale) suggests a 4-factor structure of responses: two depression (cognitive, somatic) and two hypo/mania factors (elation/loss of insight, affrontive symptoms). The two depression and two hypo/mania factors are correlated; and affrontive symptoms of hypo/mania (e.g., furious, disgusted, argumentative) are positively correlated with both depression factors suggesting pathways for mixed symptom presentation. This grouping of affrontive symptoms of hypo/mania organically emerged in exploratory research and has subsequently been supported in confirmatory analyses between samples and over time. The BDSx has been clinically validated with BD outpatients.

Results

Over 19 days, we recruited an international sample of 784 adults with BD using micro-targeted, social media advertising (M  =  44.48 years, range 18–82). All participants indicated that they had BD (subtype, if known) and had been diagnosed with BD (month, year). This sample size was sufficient to confirm the 4-factor model across subtypes and compare the three (BD I, BD II, BD NOS). Responses to 19 of 20 BDSx items were psychometrically consistent across BD subtypes. Only responses to the ‘hopeless’ item were significantly higher for those with BD II.

Conclusions

When comparing models, it appears that affrontive symptoms are significantly and uniformly associated with hypo/mania and both depression factors across subtypes. In contrast to BD diagnostic criteria, this suggests that affrontive symptoms are central to the clinical presentation of hypo/mania and mixed symptomology across BD subtypes.
Investigating the effect of pharmaceutical logistics service performance on customer satisfaction: a two-step approach with structural equation modeling
Authors: Gizaw Tafesse , Bogale Mekonnen , Gudeta Tadesse
Published: August 2021

Background

These days, pharmaceutical customers are the utmost stakeholders in the healthcare supply chain, and ensuring their satisfaction with the logistics services has become worthwhile. This study aimed to investigate the effect of perceived logistics service performance on customer satisfaction in the public health facilities served under the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Agency of the western cluster.

Methods

An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between January and February 2020. We selected 269 respondents using a multistage sampling technique. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the intended data. We employed SPSS version 26 and AMOS 22 software to analyze the quantitative data. The findings obtained from the open-ended questions were summarized in word document manually and used to discuss the quantitative data. We tested the hypotheses using structural equation modeling.

Results

Of the 269 questionnaires, 247 were duly completed and returned, making a 92% response rate. The findings indicated that the pre-transaction logistics service components (β = 0.31, p < .001), the transaction logistics service components (β = 0.54, p < .001), and the post-transaction logistics service components (β = 0.62, p < .001) influenced customer satisfaction positively and significantly explaining 77.1% of variations. The respondents indicated that the right person with appropriate qualifications, adequate knowledge, and experience should be employed to provide specific logistics services to please clients.

Conclusion

It is worth pointing out that the higher logistics services performances are likely to enhance customer satisfaction. Therefore, logistics managers should strive to ensure customers get the desired products and services reliably to increase their satisfaction even better than the current performance.
Rational design of photocatalysts for ammonia production from water and nitrogen gas
Authors: Choe Seokwoo , Kim Sung Min , Lee Yeji , Seok Jin , Jung Jiyong , Lee Jae Sung , Jang Youn Jeong
Published: August 2021

Photocatalytic N2 reduction has emerged as one of the most attractive routes to produce NH3 as a useful commodity for chemicals used in industries and as a carbon-free energy source. Recently, significant progress has been made in understanding, exploring, and designing efficient photocatalyst. In this review, we outline the important mechanistic and experimental procedures for photocatalytic NH3 production. In addition, we review effective strategies on development of photocatalysts. Finally, our analyses on the characteristics and modifications of photocatalysts have been summarized, based on which we discuss the possible future research directions, particularly on preparing more efficient catalysts. Overall, this review provides insights on improving photocatalytic NH3 production and designing solar-driven chemical conversions.
Corpus-informed application based on Korean Learners’ Corpus: substitution errors of topic and nominative markers
Authors: Chun Jihye , Kim Mi Hyun
Published: July 2021

This study aims to demonstrate the need for learner-corpus-informed applications and proposes methods of application that promote the proper use of Korean topic and nominative markers. This study extracted 3004 pieces of error from the error-annotated corpus of theKorean Learners’ Corpus,the largest Korean learner corpus to date. A detailed examination of the above data was conducted to subdivide the types of substitution errors related to the topic and nominative markers, and to analyze the error rate according to the type of error and level of proficiency. The statistical data revealed no consistent correlation between the error rate and proficiency level. Furthermore, based on the proportion of error types by proficiency level, this study proposes the use of common mistake boxes with real errors; these errors are generally committed by learners of all proficiency levels and are not presumed problematic by grammarians or intuition-based teachers. These boxes can, therefore, be utilized as a practical tool for inclusion in pedagogical materials, such as learner’s dictionaries and textbooks.
Insurance related problems in bareboat charter agreements
Authors: Gilabert Gascón Albano
Published: August 2021

In 2017, the majority of the United Kingdom Supreme Court held in its judgment in the Gard Marine and Energy v China National Chartering (The Ocean Victory) case that, in bareboat charters under the ‘BARECON 89’ form, if both the owner and the charterer are jointly insured under a hull policy, the damages caused to the vessel by the charterer cannot be claimed by the insurer by way of subrogation after indemnifying the owner. The interpretation of the charter party leads to the conclusion that the liability between the parties is excluded. Faced with the Supreme Court’s decision, the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) adopted a new standard bareboat charter agreement only a few months later, the ‘BARECON 2017’ form, which amends, among other clauses, the one related to insurance. The present paper analyses (i) the new wording of the clause mentioned above and (ii) its incidence on the relationship between the parties of both the charter agreement and the insurance contract and its consequences for possible third parties. Despite BIMCO’s attempt to change the solution adopted by the Supreme Court and his willingness to allow the insurer to claim in subrogation against the person who causes the loss, the consequences, as it will be seen, do not differ much in practice when the wrongdoer is the co-insured charterer. On the contrary, when the loss is caused by a time charter or a sub-charter, in principle, there will be no impediment for the insurer to sue him.
Strengthening the incentives for responsible research practices in Australian health and medical research funding
Authors: Diong Joanna , Kroeger Cynthia M. , Reynolds Katherine J. , Barnett Adrian , Bero Lisa A.
Published: August 2021

Background

Australian health and medical research funders support substantial research efforts, and incentives within grant funding schemes influence researcher behaviour. We aimed to determine to what extent Australian health and medical funders incentivise responsible research practices.

Methods

We conducted an audit of instructions from research grant and fellowship schemes. Eight national research grants and fellowships were purposively sampled to select schemes that awarded the largest amount of funds. The funding scheme instructions were assessed against 9 criteria to determine to what extent they incentivised these responsible research and reporting practices: (1) publicly register study protocols before starting data collection, (2) register analysis protocols before starting data analysis, (3) make study data openly available, (4) make analysis code openly available, (5) make research materials openly available, (6) discourage use of publication metrics, (7) conduct quality research (e.g. adhere to reporting guidelines), (8) collaborate with a statistician, and (9) adhere to other responsible research practices. Each criterion was answered using one of the following responses: “Instructed”, “Encouraged”, or “No mention”.

Results

Across the 8 schemes from 5 funders, applicants were instructed or encouraged to address a median of 4 (range 0 to 5) of the 9 criteria. Three criteria received no mention in any scheme (register analysis protocols, make analysis code open, collaborate with a statistician). Importantly, most incentives did not seem strong as applicants were only instructed to register study protocols, discourage use of publication metrics and conduct quality research. Other criteria were encouraged but were not required.

Conclusions

Funders could strengthen the incentives for responsible research practices by requiring grant and fellowship applicants to implement these practices in their proposals. Administering institutions could be required to implement these practices to be eligible for funding. Strongly rewarding researchers for implementing robust research practices could lead to sustained improvements in the quality of health and medical research.
Factorial validity and measurement invariance of the Psychosocial Uncertainty Scale
Authors: Lucas Casanova Mariana , Pacheco Lara S. , Costa Patrício , Lawthom Rebecca , Coimbra Joaquim Luís
Published: July 2021

This study presents the development of the Psychosocial Uncertainty Scale (PS-US), which articulates the perception of uncertainty in the social context and its psychological experience. It was validated with a sample of 1596 students and active professionals (employed and unemployed). By randomly dividing this sample in three sub-samples, the following analyses were performed: exploratory factor analysis (sample one:N= 827); preliminary confirmatory factor analysis identifying the final version of the scale (sample two:N= 382); confirmatory factor analysis (sample three:N= 387). Multi-group analysis was used to assess measurement invariance, gender, sociocultural level, and group of origin invariance, by using samples two and three. Group differences were explored with the complete sample through Multiple Indicators and Multiple Causes (MIMIC) Models. Associations between this scale and the Uncertainty response Scale were explored through Structural Equation Modelling. Exploratory and confirmatory analyses’ results showed good internal consistency and overall good psychometric qualities. The scale reached full metric invariance across groups, gender, SCL level and group of origin. Results highlight the sensitivity of the scale towards social vulnerability, proving the existence of sociocultural levels’ effects on experiences of psychosocial uncertainty within working contexts, relationships and community living and self-defeating beliefs; and gender and students versus professionals’ effects on psychosocial uncertainty. Furthermore, the scale associated significantly with Uncertainty Response Scale’s dimensions, specifically with emotional uncertainty, which can be considered a self-defeating strategy. Results suggest that emotional coping strategies, are explained by psychosocial uncertainty by 57%, and so, may have social origins.
The Joint Vasculitis Registry in German-speaking countries (GeVas) – a prospective, multicenter registry for the follow-up of long-term outcomes in vasculitis
Authors: Iking-Konert Christof , Wallmeier Pia , Arnold Sabrina , Adler Sabine , de Groot Kirsten , Hellmich Bernhard , Hoyer Bimba F. , Holl-Ulrich Konstanze , Ihorst Gabriele , Kaufmann Margit , Kötter Ina , Müller-Ladner Ulf , Magnus T. , Rech Jürgen , Schubach Fabian , Schulze-Koops Hendrik , Venhoff Nils , Wiech Thorsten , Villiger Peter , Lamprecht Peter
Published: July 2021

Background

Vasculitides comprise a group of rare diseases which affect less than 5 in 10.000 individuals. Most types of vasculitis can become organ- and life-threatening and are characterized by chronicity, high morbidity and relapses, altogether resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have been either monocentric or mainly retrospective – studies with a prospective design mostly consisted of rather small cohorts of 100 to 200 patients.

The aim of the Joint Vasculitis Registry in German-speaking countries (GeVas) is to record all patients who have been recently diagnosed with vasculitis or who have changed their treatment due to a relapse (inception cohort). In GeVas, data are collected prospectively in a multicenter design in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. By this approach, courses of vasculitis and their outcomes can be monitored over an extended period.

Methods

GeVas is a prospective, web-based, multicenter, clinician-driven registry for the documentation of organ manifestations, damage, long-term progress and other outcomes of various types of vasculitis. The registry started recruiting in June 2019. As of October 2020, 14 centers have been initiated and started recruiting patients in Germany. Involvement of sites in Austria and the German-speaking counties of Switzerland is scheduled in the near future.

Discussion

In June 2019, we successfully established a prospective multicenter vasculitis registry being the first of its kind in German-speaking countries. The participating centers are currently recruiting, and systematic analysis of long-term vasculitis outcomes is expected in the ensuing period.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien): DRKS00011866. Registered 10 May 2019.
Quality assurance data for regional drip-and-ship strategies- gearing up the transfer process
Authors: Boss Erendira G. , Bohmann Ferdinand O. , Misselwitz Björn , Kaps Manfred , Neumann-Haefelin Tobias , Pfeilschifter Waltraud , Kurka Natalia
Published: August 2021

Background

Stroke patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) require endovascular therapy (EVT) provided by comprehensive stroke centers (CSC). One strategy to achieve fast stroke symptom ‘onset to treatment’ times (OTT) is the preclinical selection of patients with severe stroke for direct transport to CSC. Another is the optimization of interhospital transfer workflow. Our aim was to investigate the dynamics of the OTT of ‘drip-and-ship’ patients as well as the current ‘door-in-door-out’ time (DIDO) and its determinants at representative regional German stroke units.

Methods

We determined the numbers of all EVT treatments, ‘drip-and-ship’ and ‘direct-to-center’ patients and their median OTT from the mandatory quality assurance registry of the federal state of Hesse, Germany (2012–2019). Additionally, we captured process time stamps from primary stroke centers (PSC) in a consecutive registry of patients referred for EVT in our regional stroke network over a 3 months period.

Results

Along with an increase of the EVT rate, the proportion of drip-and-ship patients grew steadily from 19.4% in 2012 to 31.3% in 2019. The time discrepancy for the median OTT between ‘drip-and-ship’ and ‘direct-to-center’ patients continuously declined from 173 to 74 min. The largest share of the DIDO (median 92, IQR 69–110) is spent with the organization of EVT and consecutive patient transfer.

Conclusions

‘Drip-and-ship’ patients are an important and growing proportion of stroke patients undergoing EVT. The discrepancy in OTT for EVT between ‘drip-and-ship’ and ‘direct-to-center’ patients has been reduced considerably. Further optimization of the DIDO primarily aiming at the processes after the detection of LVO is urgently needed to improve stroke patient care.
The posterior tibial slope does not influence the flexion angle in posterior-stabilized mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Takemura Susumu , Ikawa Tessyu , Ohyama Yohei , Kim Mitsunari , Takaoka Kunio , Minoda Yukihide , Kadoya Yoshinori
Published: August 2021

Background

It remains uncertain whether an increase in the tibial slope leads to better flexion in posterior-stabilized (PS) total knee prostheses.

Purpose

To compare the intra-operative flexion angle between standard and an additional 10° posterior slope inserts.

Patients and methods

Between December 2014 and February 2015, 22 patients (25 knees) who underwent PS mobile-bearing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were included. Flexion angles were measured using either standard or specially-made inserts. Differences in flexion angles between the two situations were analyzed to determine the relationship between changes in flexion angle and pre-operative flexion angle or body mass index (BMI), and between intra- and post-operative flexion angle.

Results

The difference between the average flexion angle of standard inserts and specially-made inserts was not statistically significant. Although the correlations between changes in flexion angle due to insert difference and flexion angle, pre-operative flexion angle or BMI were not significant, there was a positive correlation between intra-operative and post-operative flexion at 2 years.

Conclusion

The results showed an additional posterior tibial slope by 10° did not affect the intra-operative flexion angle. Surgeons performing PS mobile-bearing TKA do not need to excessively slope the tibial bone cutting to improve the post-operative flexion angle.

Level of evidence

I, Experimental study.
Pandemic Grief Scale in detection of grief reaction among physicians in COVID-19 era
Authors: El Sayed Samir , Gomaa Sarah , Aboelfotoh Shereen , El Wasify Mohamed
Published: August 2021

Background

Physicians are considered one of the most vulnerable groups who might develop pandemic grief during this critical time of COVID-19 infection, and this grief reaction might have deleterious effects on their life. This cross-sectional observational online study aimed to investigate the pandemic grief reaction among physicians and its burden on their aspects of life.

Results

Socio-demographic characteristics of 900 physicians were collected. The Pandemic Grief Scale (PGS) was used to detect the grief reaction among them and also Patient Health Depression Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to evaluate the depressive manifestations. Sheehan Disability Scale was considered to investigate the burden of this grief on different aspects of life. The study revealed high mean score of Pandemic Grief Scale: 11.12 ± 2.34; the mean score of Sheehan Disability Scale was 17.63 ± 5.17, and the mean score of Patient Health Depression Questionnaire-9 was 19.89 ± 4.27.

Conclusion

Pandemic grief is commonly experienced by the physicians during this COVID-19 era due to sudden loss of loved one or the cases themselves. This pandemic grief has drastic effect on domains of physicians’ life.
Mass spectrometry: an essential tool to be used in discrimination between causes of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and its benefits versus radioimmunoassay
Authors: Asfour Heba , Baz Heba , Soliman Hend , Elshiwy Yasmine , Elsharkawy Marwa , Elmougy Fatma , Morgan Marianne
Published: July 2021

Background

Measurement of multiple steroids, 17 hydroxyprogesterone, 11 deoxycortisol, and 21 deoxycortisol, is required to discriminate between congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21 hydroxylase deficiency and that due to 11 beta hydroxylase deficiency. This work aims at the selection of the more appropriate, cost-effective method among either mass spectrometry or radioimmunoassay for the quantitation of the previous steroids. In this study, blood samples were collected from 31 patients that were newly diagnosed with congenital adrenal hyperplasia; 17 hydroxyprogesterone and 21 deoxycortisol were assayed using tandem mass spectrometry. Eleven deoxycortisol was assayed using 2 methods: radioimmunoassay and tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Measuring 11 deoxycortisol using tandem mass spectrometry could significantly discriminate patients with 11 beta hydroxylase deficiency from those with 21 hydroxylase deficiency (p = 0.002), whereas radioimmunoassay failed (p = 0.095). Moreover, the former was highly predictive of 11 beta hydroxylase deficiency at a cutoff ≥ 11 ng/ml with 100% sensitivity and 92.3% specificity. Simultaneous measurement of 21 deoxycortisol and 11 deoxycortisol and their enrollment in an equation yielded an overall predictive accuracy 96.8% for diagnosis of CAH due to both enzymatic deficiencies.

Conclusions

Measurement of 11 deoxycortisol using mass spectrometric approach is mandated as a part of work up to differentiate types of congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Imaging the near surface using velocity inversions of ultra-high-density 3D seismic data
Authors: Dean Tim , Pavlova Margarita , Grant Matthew , Bayly Martin , Sweeney Denis , Re Simone , Strobbia Claudio
Published: August 2021

Within the coal industry, there is a rich history of the use of the surface seismic method, principally for exploration and employing sparse 2D lines for broad resource delineation and structural modeling. However, the acquisition of 3D seismic surveys adjacent to open-cut mines (from which the majority of coal is extracted) for superior resource definition ahead of their expansion has been explored only recently. Although the reflection results are extremely useful and enable the mapping of faults with sub-5 m throws, there is still interest in determining if the seismic data can be used to image both structures and rock properties in the near surface. In addition to mapping near-surface structures that have geotechnical implications, the ability to map the overburden properties (which can be quite heterogeneous) is desired. Before mining activities can take place, the overburden needs to be removed. The cost of the removal method employed is directly affected by the depth of the weathered layer and rock properties. In particular, hardness can vary significantly. In this paper, we demonstrate how high-density seismic data originally acquired for reflection processing can be processed to generate high-resolution velocity (both VS and VP) depth volumes, which enable the successful identification of shallow structures and the creation of highly detailed near-surface rock-property volumes.
Evaluation of point-of-care thumb-size bispectral electroencephalography device to quantify delirium severity and predict mortality
Authors: Yamanashi Takehiko , Crutchley Kaitlyn J. , Wahba Nadia E. , Sullivan Eleanor J. , Comp Katie R. , Kajitani Mari , Tran Tammy , Modukuri Manisha V. , Marra Pedro S. , Herrmann Felipe M. , Chang Gloria , Anderson Zoe-Ella M. , Iwata Masaaki , Kobayashi Ken , Kaneko Koichi , Umeda Yuhei , Kadooka Yoshimasa , Lee Sangil , Shinozaki Eri , Karam Matthew D. , Noiseux Nicolas O. , Shinozaki Gen
Published: August 2021

Background

We have developed the bispectral electroencephalography (BSEEG) method for detection of delirium and prediction of poor outcomes.

Aims

To improve the BSEEG method by introducing a new EEG device.

Method

In a prospective cohort study, EEG data were obtained and BSEEG scores were calculated. BSEEG scores were filtered on the basis of standard deviation (s.d.) values to exclude signals with high noise. Both non-filtered and s.d.-filtered BSEEG scores were analysed. BSEEG scores were compared with the results of three delirium screening scales: the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU), the Delirium Rating Scale-Revised-98 (DRS) and the Delirium Observation Screening Scale (DOSS). Additionally, the 365-day mortalities and the length of stay (LOS) in the hospital were analysed.

Results

We enrolled 279 elderly participants and obtained 620 BSEEG recordings; 142 participants were categorised as BSEEG-positive, reflecting slower EEG activity. BSEEG scores were higher in the CAM-ICU-positive group than in the CAM-ICU-negative group. There were significant correlations between BSEEG scores and scores on the DRS and the DOSS. The mortality rate of the BSEEG-positive group was significantly higher than that of the BSEEG-negative group. The LOS of the BSEEG-positive group was longer compared with that of the BSEEG-negative group. BSEEG scores after s.d. filtering showed stronger correlations with delirium screening scores and more significant prediction of mortality.

Conclusions

We confirmed the usefulness of the BSEEG method for detection of delirium and of delirium severity, and prediction of patient outcomes with a new EEG device.
The Nature of Space
Authors: Santos Milton
Published: August 2021

In The Nature of Space, pioneering Afro-Brazilian geographer Milton Santos attends to globalization writ large and how local and global orders intersect in the construction of space. Santos offers a theory of human space based on relationships between time and ontology. He argues that when geographers consider the inseparability of time and space, they can then transcend fragmented realities and partial truths without trying to theorize their way around them. Based on these premises, Santos examines the role of space, which he defines as indissoluble systems of objects and systems of actions in social processes, while providing a geographic contribution to the production of a critical social theory.
Estimating HIV, HCV and HSV2 incidence from emergency department serosurvey
Authors: Spencer Simon E.F. , Laeyendecker Oliver , Dyson Louise , Hsieh Yu-Hsiang , Patel Eshan U. , Rothman Richard E. , Kelen Gabor D. , Quinn Thomas C. , Hollingsworth T. Deirdre
Published: August 2021

Background: Our understanding of pathogens and disease transmission has improved dramatically over the past 100 years, but coinfection, how different pathogens interact with each other, remains a challenge. Cross-sectional serological studies including multiple pathogens offer a crucial insight into this problem. 

Methods: We use data from three cross-sectional serological surveys (in 2003, 2007 and 2013) in a Baltimore emergency department to predict the prevalence for HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and herpes simplex virus, type 2 (HSV2), in a fourth survey (in 2016). We develop a mathematical model to make this prediction and to estimate the incidence of infection and coinfection in each age and ethnic group in each year.

Results: Overall we find a much stronger age cohort effect than a time effect, so that, while incidence at a given age may decrease over time, individuals born at similar times experience a more constant force of infection over time.

Conclusions: These results emphasise the importance of age-cohort counselling and early intervention while people are young. Our approach adds value to data such as these by providing age- and time-specific incidence estimates which could not be obtained any other way, and allows forecasting to enable future public health planning.
Más allá del museo: Estudio de un corpus artístico de audiodescripción para personas con discapacidad visual
Authors: Ara Gregorio Aimar
Published: August 2021

This article provides a study of an artistic corpus of audio description for the blind and visually impaired that has been produced in two different countries (Spain and the U.S.) and by two different entities (museums and artists), which hold their own standards and ideas on audio description. Based on the hypothesis that there is a shared basic notion on what is audio description for the blind and visually impaired and what is its purpose, both in Spanish and American culture, as well as among museums and artists, this study adopts a translatological approach and takes the works of Catalina Jiménez Hurtado and Silvia Soler Gallego (2015) and Christiane Limbach (2013) as its main references in order to analyse the linguistic characteristics of this corpus from a threefold perspective: lexical, semantic and axiological, to determine the extent to which the audio descriptions that are the subject of this study show greater differences and/or similarities
El desarrollo del teletrabajo: aspectos cuantitativos.
Authors: Arévalo Quijada María Teresa , Barrera Lozano Margarita , Gómez Domínguez Dolores
Published: August 2021

El teletrabajo o trabajo desde casa se ha desarrollado de forma progresiva en las últimas décadas. Los factores que más han favorecido su crecimiento han sido la mejora del capital humano y de las infraestructuras de telecomunicaciones, que son aspectos cruciales y necesarios para llevar a cabo la actividad laboral de forma remota y con los equipos necesarios para ellos. El avance de la globalización y la digitalización de la economía ha sido parejo con el incremento de este tipo de trabajo. La situación acaecida como consecuencia de la Covid-19 ha supuesto un empuje forzoso al incremento en el uso de esta tipología de trabajo. Este estudio analiza los datos de trabajo desde casa, o teletrabajo, en el contexto de la Unión Europea y su evolución como consecuencia de la Pandemia Covid-19. Se observan diferencias en el avance a nivel territorial, sectorial, familiar y educativo debido a carencias de capital físico y humano y, también, a las características particulares de cada tipo de actividad.
MATHEMATICAL MODELING FROM THE EYES OF PRESERVICE TEACHERS
Authors: Dede Yüksel , Taşpinar Şener Zehra
Published: July 2021

Using preservice teachers’ (PTs) opinions as its base, this study seeks to shed light on the process followed by PTs in teaching mathematical modeling to middle school students. The study group was composed of 18 middle school mathematics PTs, each of whom was selected using purposeful sampling. During the research period, PTs travelled in groups to the schools where they were to perform their practicum. Lessons were video recorded, and PTs shared these recordings and their classroom experiences with their peers. As a result of the analysis, the study’s findings were grouped into four main themes: (i) opinions regarding activities, (ii) opinions regarding preservice teachers, (iii) opinions regarding students, and (iv) opinions regarding mathematics teachers. Discussion of these findings revolved around both teacher training and mathematical modeling, which then led to several recommendations being made
ANAMNESIS DE LA TEORÍA DE LOS INDIVISIBLES DE CAVALIERI
Authors: Solanilla Chavarro Leonardo , Tamayo Acevedo Ana Celi
Published: July 2021

En su circunstancia social y cultural concreta, los indivisibles cavalerianos constituyen una teoría entendible que busca los símbolos de lo infinito-continuo en los albores de la Modernidad europea. Muchas de las nociones claves de esta teoría perviven en las matemáticas de hoy.
EPISTEMOLOGÍA DE LOS PROFESORES SOBRE EL CONOCIMIENTO MATEMÁTICO ESCOLAR: UN ESTUDIO DE CASO
Authors: Sepúlveda Obreque Karla , Lezama Andalón Javier
Published: July 2021

Se buscó conocer la epistemología de los profesores sobre el conocimiento matemático escolar. El estudio se enmarco en la Teoría Socioepistemológica entendiendo la matemática como una actividad humana desde el relativismo epistémico. Este estudio cualitativo utilizó el análisis microscópico para formar categorías y luego analizó dialécticamente esas categorías. El interés investigativo surgió al observar la influencia del eurocentrismo, el mono epistemisismo de la escuela y la ausencia de algunos conocimientos en la enseñanza.    La epistemología del profesor influye su enseñanza y afecta el modelo escolar como herramienta de cambio o de continuidad social. Los resultados mostraron que los profesores mayoritariamente entienden la matemática como un conocimiento a priori, asignando a la acción humana el rol de descubrirla, interpretarla o formalizarla.