bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptual changes in ameloblastoma: Suggested re‐classification of a "veteran" tumor
Authors: Zlotogorski‐Hurvitz Ayelet , Soluk Tekkeşin Merva , Passador‐Santos Fabricio , Martins Montalli Victor Angelo , Salo Tuula , Mauramo Matti , Kats Lazar , Buchner Amos , Vered Marilena
Published: January 2021

Objectives

The merging of ameloblastoma (AM) with mural unicystic ameloblastoma (UAM‐M) was suggested by the 2017 WHO based on similar treatment needs. In an international multicenter study, we investigated the characteristics of their merged product (merged‐AM) and raised the possibility of unifying AM and UAM (total‐AM).

Materials and methods

AM and UAM (luminal/intraluminal/mural), separate and combined, were analyzed for demographic/clinical/radiological features. ANOVA and chi‐square tests were followed by univariate and multivariate analyses, and significance was set at p < .05.

Results

The patients’ mean age was 39.6 ± 20.3 years in merged‐AM (147 AM, 76 UAM‐M), 45.1 ± 19.4 years in AM (p = .009). Merged‐AM comprised 51.3% multilocular/48.7% unilocular tumors, AM comprised 72.5%/27.5%, respectively (p < .001). Merged‐AM was associated with impacted teeth in 30.8%, AM in 18% (p = .023). The probability of merged‐AM for multilocularity increased by 2.4% per year of age (95%CI 0.6–4.2, p = .009). Association with impacted teeth decreased by 7.9% per year of age (95%CI 1.9–14.39, p = .009). Merged‐AM did not differ from total‐AM (p > .05).

Conclusions

Merged‐AM partially differed from AM, but differences appeared to diminish in an age/time‐wise manner. Merged‐AM and total‐AM were nearly indistinguishable. Therefore, AM and UAM may be considered a continuous spectrum of one type of tumor, further necessitating revision of the treatment approaches.
Clinical and pathological findings of chronic actinic dermatitis
Authors: Lin Naiyu , Huang Xiaobao , Ma Chunguang , Han Jiande
Published: January 2021

Background

Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) is a recurrent photosensitive disease occurs predominantly in elderly men on sun‐exposed areas, which seriously affect the patient's life quality. The etiology of CAD remains unknown.

Methods

Sixty‐six CAD patients, 66 atopic dermatitis (AD) patients, and 46 healthy people were enrolled into this study. Patient‐level data were obtained from the electronic medical record and laboratory databases. We also obtained 29 tissue samples including 16 lichenoid lesions, 7 minimal erythematous dose (MED) analysis induced lesions, and 6 normal skin samples. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical analysis were performed.

Results

In the clinical characteristics, albumin was lower and uric acid was higher significantly in patients diagnosed as CAD. The infection rate of CAD patient after skin biopsy was considerably high (23.3%). The serum allergen test was prone to be negative in CAD patients. Lymphocytes were the dominate infiltrating cells in early and late CAD lesions, while more CD4+, CD8+, CD69+, and CD103 + cells were found in the late lesions. There is no difference in CD4+/CD8 + ratio and CD69+/CD103 + ratio among groups. More mast cells were observed in the early‐stage lesions, and more dendritic cell was observed in the late‐stage lesions.

Conclusions

CAD patients have certain oxidative stress and are prone to be infected after skin biopsy. Serum allergen detection is of little significance for CAD diagnosis. Mast cells may be involved in the early process of CAD, while dendritic cells and tissue‐resident memory T cell (TRM) may be related to the chronic process of the disease.
Bayesian Semi-parametric G-computation For Causal Inference in a Cohort Study with Mnar Dropout and Death
Authors: Josefsson Maria , Daniels Michael J.
Published: January 2021

Causal inference with observational longitudinal data and time-varying exposures is often complicated by time-dependent confounding and attrition. The G-computation formula is one approach for estimating a causal effect in this setting. The parametric modelling approach typically used in practice relies on strong modelling assumptions for valid inference and moreover depends on an assumption of missing at random, which is not appropriate when the missingness is missing not at random (MNAR) or due to death. In this work we develop a flexible Bayesian semi-parametric G-computation approach for assessing the causal effect on the subpopulation that would survive irrespective of exposure, in a setting with MNAR dropout. The approach is to specify models for the observed data using Bayesian additive regression trees, and then, use assumptions with embedded sensitivity parameters to identify and estimate the causal effect. The proposed approach is motivated by a longitudinal cohort study on cognition, health and ageing and we apply our approach to study the effect of becoming a widow on memory. We also compare our approach to several standard methods.
Tribology of an assembly of hairs: Influence of multiscale surface chemistry and structure on sensorial tactile properties
Authors: Galliano Anthony , Fougere Maxime , Wolfram Leszek , Maibach Howard I. , Luengo Gustavo S.
Published: January 2021

Background

Hair fibers may be either oriented in a common direction or randomly arranged. Fiber arrangement as well as cosmetic treatment control the sensorial perception. The present study explores the respective influence of these two aspects by predicting the product performance in terms of tactile perception.

Materials and Methods

Friction forces between hair swatches of different curl patterns using a finger‐like probe have been measured to better mimic real‐life hair/finger contact. Measurements of fiber alignment, hair diameter (thickness), and compression tests were performed on natural and treated swatches to assess the respective weight of these parameters.

Results

Conditioned hair exhibit an adhesive behavior measured at the start of the frictional movement. Conversely, natural hair is influenced by fiber reorientation. After a few seconds, friction‐related signals stabilize. Thus, the averaged friction forces do not only depend on hair thickness, but increase with a decreased alignment of the fibers.

Conclusions

Intrinsic (diameter/curliness) and external (orientation/ friction/compression) characteristics allow to define a model of "macroscopic" roughness linked to the sensorial characterization. As friction of hair swatches depends upon fiber alignment and coating, this combined approach is potentially a very useful in vitro test, as an alternative or complementary method to sensory tests.
Creation of Functional Replica Roman and Late Antique Musical Instruments through 3D Scanning and Printing Technology, and their use in research and museum education
Authors: Swift Ellen , Bosworth Lloyd , Creese David , Morris George , Pudsey April , Richardson Justin , Stoner Jo , Walter Frank , Wright Georgia
Published: January 2021

Replica artefacts are a well-established feature of Roman archaeology, particularly as used in experimental archaeology, by re-enactors, and in museum education. 3D scanning offers a new methodology for the accurate production of such artefacts, which can then be used both in scholarly research and in public engagement activities. This article describes methodologies for 3D scanning and 3D printing, together with appropriate craft techniques, in the creation of replica musical instruments from the collection of UCL's Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology in London. While there were some challenges in replica creation, discussed in further detail, 'functional replicas' were successfully made, that, we argue, replicate sufficiently accurately those features of the objects under investigation from a research perspective. These were the decibel levels (sound power levels), and, for some objects, frequency (pitch) ranges produced, and the variety of sounds that they could produce. This evidence makes an important contribution to our understanding of the contexts of use of the original instruments. Sound recordings virtually modelled in a likely use location, the courtyard of a typical house from Roman-period Egypt, were also produced and assist in our conceptualisation of the wider acoustic environment. Sound recordings and replicas were additionally used for public engagement purposes in a temporary exhibition at the Petrie Museum, and their contribution to museum education is assessed. 3D scanning and printing technology are demonstrated to be valuable techniques for the production of accurate replicas, which can be used successfully to contribute to scholarly research and museum education in new ways. Appendices include .stl files that may be downloaded and 3D printed, to make copies of the replicas for use in new research and education projects.
A statistical approach for analyzing and modeling multibeam echosounder backscatter, including the influence of high-amplitude scatterers
Authors: Fonseca Luciano , Lurton Xavier , Fezzani Ridha , Augustin Jean-Marie , Berger Laurent
Published: January 2021

The statistical analysis of acoustic backscatter samples recorded by multibeam echosounders can be a valuable tool for remote seafloor characterization and interpretation. The present paper aims at analyzing the statistics of backscatter data values, both in “raw” status and after various averaging operations, using field data. It is shown that the statistics of the data can be adequately described by a Weibull distribution parametrized by the incidence angle and the level of applied processing: the distribution of the averaged backscatter amplitude, processed according to various schemes, varies from a Rayleigh law for raw data to lognormal and finally to Gaussian distribution after successive averaging operations. Based on these results, some recommendations for the calculation of the mean backscatter strength are presented. Finally, the influence of high-amplitude scatterers in the backscatter probability density function is addressed; a scheme is suggested to separate the contributions of the substrate from the contributions of the scatterers on the statistical distribution of sonar data samples.
Experiences and Strategies Influencing Older Adults to Continue Playing Walking Football
Authors: Cholerton Rachel , Quirk Helen , Breckon Jeff , Butt Joanne
Published: January 2021

Adults aged 55+ years are most likely to be inactive, despite research suggesting that older adults experience multiple benefits when participating in physical activity and sport. Limited research focuses on long-term continuation of sport participation in this population, especially in “adapted sports” like walking football. This study explored the experiences of walking football maintenance in 55- to 75-year-old players. Semistructured interviews were conducted, with 17 older adults maintaining walking football play over 6 months. The inductive analysis revealed five higher-order themes representing maintenance influences and two higher-order themes relating to maintenance mechanisms (i.e., the conscious process by which players maintain). Influences when maintaining walking football included individual- and culture-level influences (e.g., perceived benefits of maintenance and ability acceptance). Maintenance mechanisms included cognitions and behaviors (e.g., scheduling sessions and redefining physical activity expectations). Findings highlight novel implications for policy and practice, which are important to consider when delivering walking football to older adults.
Dosing debates, transparency issues roil vaccine rollouts
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: January 2021

U.K. decision to delay booster shots sparks concerns.
Dismay greets end of U.S. effort to curb devastating forest pest
Authors: Popkin Gabriel
Published: January 2021

States, tribes oppose federal move to end quarantines and rely on tiny parasitic wasps to fight invasive beetle.
Decoy toxin harnessed to fight botulism
Authors: Servick Kelly
Published: January 2021

In animal studies, miniature antibodies work within nerves to reverse paralysis.
A broadly protective antibody that targets the flavivirus NS1 protein
Authors: Modhiran Naphak , Song Hao , Liu Lidong , Bletchly Cheryl , Brillault Lou , Amarilla Alberto A. , Xu Xiaoying , Qi Jianxun , Chai Yan , Cheung Stacey T. M. , Traves Renee , Setoh Yin Xiang , Bibby Summa , Scott Connor A. P. , Freney Morgan E. , Newton Natalee D. , Khromykh Alexander A. , Chappell Keith J. , Muller David A. , Stacey Katryn J. , Landsberg Michael J. , Shi Yi , Gao George F. , Young Paul R. , Watterson Daniel
Published: January 2021

Two antibodies against flaviviruses

Flaviviruses are a group of RNA viruses that include the human pathogens dengue virus, Zika virus, and West Nile virus. The envelope protein (E) on the virus surface has been the target of vaccine development, but problems have arisen with antibodies against E, leading to enhanced infection. Now, Modhiran
et al.
and Biering
et al.
describe two different antibodies that bind to the flavivirus NS1 protein and prevent it from disrupting epithelial cells, which is associated with severe disease. Both antibodies cross-react with multiple flavivirus NS1 proteins. The antibodies reduce viremia and increase survival in mouse models of flavivirus disease. Both papers include structures of NS1 bound to an antibody, which give insight into the protective mechanism.

Science
, this issue p.
190
, p.
194
RNA stabilization by a poly(A) tail 3′-end binding pocket and other modes of poly(A)-RNA interaction
Authors: Torabi Seyed-Fakhreddin , Vaidya Anand T. , Tycowski Kazimierz T. , DeGregorio Suzanne J. , Wang Jimin , Shu Mei-Di , Steitz Thomas A. , Steitz Joan A.
Published: January 2021

Poly(A) and RNA: More ways to interact

One of the most conserved RNA modifications across organisms is the addition of a polyadenosine, or poly(A), tail to the 3′ end of RNA molecules. Cis-acting RNA stabilization elements, such as the triplex-forming element for nuclear expression (ENE), retard RNA decay, thereby controlling the maturation and abundance of cellular transcripts. Torabi
et al.
determined the high-resolution crystal structure of a double ENE complexed with 28-mer poly(A) to reveal new modes of the RNA-RNA interaction, including a pocket motif that protects the extreme 3′ end of the poly(A) tail. Discovery of such interactions opens new venues to better understanding poly(A) tail function in RNA biology.

Science
, this issue p.
eabe6523
SARS-CoV-2 spillover events
Authors: Zhou Peng , Shi Zheng-Li
Published: January 2021

Spillover from mink to humans highlights SARS-CoV-2 transmission routes from animals
Rare complication of four extremity compartment syndrome requiring fasciotomy from influenza A viral myositis
Authors: Lochner Arion , Cesaro Robert , Chen Eric
Published: January 2021

Influenza A and B commonly cause benign respiratory disease in humans, but can cause more severe illness in high-risk populations. We report an unusual case of a previously healthy adult patient who presented with myositis and severe rhabdomyolysis secondary to influenza A infection that resulted in atraumatic compartment syndrome of all four extremities, each requiring emergent fasciotomy. The patient was subsequently managed with delayed primary closure and skin grafting in the operating room. Prompt recognition of this rare complication by the team resulted in no limb amputations. On his first follow-up appointment, 1 month after discharge, he had regained full functionality in both his hands and his feet were both close to 50% of baseline and improving with physical therapy.
A rare cause of postmenopausal hyperandrogenism
Authors: De Vis Maarten , Brock Stefanie , Cosyns Stefan , Velkeniers Brigitte
Published: January 2021

We present an unusual case of mucinous cystadenoma presenting with severe virilisation in a postmenopausal woman. A 71-year-old woman was referred to our outpatient endocrinology clinic because of rapidly progressive androgenic alopecia, clitoromegaly and male pattern pubic hair growth for 1 year. Her medical history was unremarkable. The serum testosterone level was 3.35 µg/L (normal range, <0.4 µg/L), and the dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate level was 267 µg/L (normal range, 100–800 µg/L). MRI of the abdomen revealed a 4×4 cm cystic ovarian mass. A bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed, and histopathology showed a unilocular cystic structure with a yellowish content, compatible with mucinous cystadenoma. Postoperative testosterone levels quickly normalised (<0.4 µg/L).

Rapidly developing postmenopausal hyperandrogenism easily turns into a diagnostic challenge for the clinician. Hormone-secreting neoplasms of the ovary are most commonly of sex cord stromal derivation, but atypical causes must be recognised as well. Cystadenomas are among the most common benign ovarian neoplasms and are classically considered ‘non-functional’ tumours. Most of these tumours are asymptomatic and found incidentally on pelvic examination or with ultrasound. To date and to the best of our knowledge, there are only five cases of mucinous adenoma causing virilisation in postmenopausal women identified in the literature. This sixth case adds strength to the link between ovarian mucinous cystadenoma and severe, rapidly progressive hyperandrogenism during menopause. In this case, surgical resection is the treatment of choice.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the labium oris with rare metastasis to the pleural cavity
Authors: Mosalem Osama , Alsara Anas , Abu Rous Fawzi , Hrinczenko Borys
Published: January 2021

A 57-year-old Southeast Asian woman with a remote history of adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the right labium superius oris (upper lip) presented to the hospital with vague epigastric pain. On workup, she was found to have multiple pleural nodules. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic ACC. After 8 months of active surveillance, evidence of disease progression was found and the patient was started on pembrolizumab. Follow-up after starting pembrolizumab showed stable disease with no significant side effects.
Peripheral artery disease, lower limb revascularization, and amputation in diabetes patients with and without coronary artery disease: a cohort study from the Western Denmark Heart Registry
Authors: Olesen Kevin Kris Warnakula , Gyldenkerne Christine , Thim Troels , Thomsen Reimar Wernich , Maeng Michael
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Patients with diabetes have increased risk of lower limb revascularization and amputation due to higher risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and peripheral neuropathy. The additive effect of coronary artery disease (CAD) is less clear. We examined the risk of PAD, lower limb revascularization, and amputation in diabetes and non-diabetes patients with and without CAD in patients examined by coronary angiography (CAG).

Research design and methods

We included all patients undergoing CAG between 2003 and 2016 in Western Denmark. Patients with previous CAD, PAD, lower limb revascularization, or amputation were excluded. Patients were stratified by diabetes and CAD status and followed for a maximum of 10 years. Outcomes were PAD, lower limb revascularization, and amputation. We estimated 10-year cumulative incidences and adjusted HRs (aHRs) using patients neither diabetes nor CAD as reference.

Results

A total of 118 787 patients were included, of whom 41 878 (35%) had neither diabetes nor CAD, 5735 (5%) had diabetes alone, 59 427 (50%) had CAD alone, and 11 747 (10%) had both diabetes and CAD. Median follow-up was 6.9 years. Diabetes patients without CAD had higher risk of PAD (3.5%, aHR 1.73, 95% CI 1.51 to 1.97), lower limb revascularization (1.6%, aHR 1.55, 95% CI 1.16 to 2.05), and lower limb amputation (2.4%, aHR 5.51, 95% CI 4.09 to 7.43) compared with patients with neither diabetes nor CAD. CAD was associated with 2.5-fold and 1.8-fold higher risk of PAD and amputation, respectively, among patients without diabetes, and associated with 3.9-fold and 9.5-fold higher risk of PAD and lower limb amputation among patients with diabetes.

Conclusions

Despite absence of obstructive CAD, patients with diabetes remained at higher risk of PAD, lower limb revascularization, and lower limb amputation. Diabetes was more strongly associated with amputation than CAD, but CAD exacerbated the risks of PAD, revascularization, and amputation in patients with diabetes.
Capability building for large-scale transformational change: learning from an evaluation of a national programme
Authors: Smith Iain M , Bayliss Elaine , Mukoro Felix
Published: January 2021

Background

The Long Term Plan presents an ambitious vision for England’s National Health Service which will require a sustained programme of transformational change. The Virtual Academy of Large-Scale Change (VALSC) was developed to build capability in health and care system teams involved in transformation or redesign programmes.

Methods

To evaluate the VALSC, quantitative and qualitative data were collected and reviewed against the Kirkpatrick model. Quantitative data were collected via end-of-session surveys to assess individual knowledge before and after participating in capability-building interventions. Qualitative data were also collected and included post-intervention surveys and interviews. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using an inductive approach to identify themes that were subsequently assessed against the Kirkpatrick model.

Results

Results suggest that the VALSC programme has helped build capability for large-scale change in terms of learning, behaviour change and impact. Participants’ ipsative self-assessment of knowledge demonstrated a significant change (p<0.001) and qualitative data suggested three broad themes in which the VALSC made an impact. First, participants were empowered with transformation and change skills which they applied to local health and care challenges. Second, VALSC helped strengthen connections within and between transformational change teams. Third, VALSC helped transformational change teams to engage more effectively with their stakeholders.

Conclusions

The VALSC developed knowledge, skills, behavioural change and application impact that built capability in individuals and teams. Therefore, continuing to develop capability-building offers that empower and build agency in front-line staff working on service transformation and equip them with approaches, methods and tools to increase their chances of success, is recommended.
Specialty COPD care during COVID-19: patient and clinician perspectives on remote delivery
Authors: Wu Frances , Burt Jenni , Chowdhury Teena , Fitzpatrick Raymond , Martin Graham , van der Scheer Jan W , Hurst John R
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted specialty chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care. We examined the degree to which care has moved to remote approaches, eliciting clinician and patient perspectives on what is appropriate for ongoing remote delivery.

Methods

Using an online research platform, we conducted a survey and consensus-building process involving clinicians and patients with COPD.

Results

Fifty-five clinicians and 19 patients responded. The majority of clinicians felt able to assess symptom severity (n=52, 95%), reinforce smoking cessation (n=46, 84%) and signpost to other healthcare resources (n=44, 80%). Patients reported that assessing COPD severity and starting new medications were being addressed through remote care. Forty-three and 31 respondents participated in the first and second consensus-building rounds, respectively. When asked to rate the appropriateness of using remote delivery for specific care activities, respondents reached consensus on 5 of 14 items: collecting information about COPD and overall health status (77%), providing COPD education and developing a self-management plan (74%), reinforcing smoking cessation (81%), deciding whether patients should seek in-person care (72%) and initiating a rescue pack (76%).

Conclusion

Adoption of remote care delivery appears high, with many care activities partially or completely delivered remotely. Our work identifies strengths and limitations of remote care delivery.
Effect of losartan on performance and physiological responses to exercise at high altitude (5035 m)
Authors: Lucas Samuel J E , Malein William L , Thomas Owen D , Ashdown Kimberly M , Rue Carla A , Joyce Kelsey E , Newman Charles , Cadigan Patrick , Johnson Brian , Myers Stephen D , Myers Fiona A , Wright Alexander D , Delamere John , Imray Chris H E , Bradwell Arthur R , Edsell Mark
Published: January 2021

Objective

Altitude-related and exercise-related elevations in blood pressure (BP) increase the likelihood of developing pulmonary hypertension and high-altitude illness during high-altitude sojourn. This study examined the antihypertensive effect and potential exercise benefit of the angiotensin II receptor antagonist losartan when taken at altitude.

Methods

Twenty participants, paired for age and ACE genotype status, completed a double-blinded, randomised study, where participants took either losartan (100 mg/day) or placebo for 21 days prior to arrival at 5035 m (Whymper Hut, Mt Chimborazo, Ecuador). Participants completed a maximal exercise test on a supine cycle ergometer at sea level (4 weeks prior) and within 48 hours of arrival to 5035 m (10-day ascent). Power output, beat-to-beat BP, oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) were recorded during exercise, with resting BP collected from daily medicals during ascent. Before and immediately following exercise at 5035 m, extravascular lung water prevalence was assessed with ultrasound (quantified via B-line count).

Results

At altitude, peak power was reduced relative to sea level (p<0.01) in both groups (losartan vs placebo: down 100±29 vs 91±28 W, p=0.55), while SpO2(70±6 vs 70±5%, p=0.96) and HR (146±21 vs 149±24 bpm, p=0.78) were similar between groups at peak power, as was the increase in systolic BP from rest to peak power (up 80±37 vs 69±33 mm Hg, p=0.56). Exercise increased B-line count (p<0.05), but not differently between groups (up 5±5 vs 8±10, p=0.44).

Conclusion

Losartan had no observable effect on resting or exercising BP, exercise-induced symptomology of pulmonary hypertension or performance at 5035 m.
Impact of pregnancy and risk factors for ventricular arrhythmias in women with tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Quattrone Alessia , Lie Oyvind H , Nestaas Eirik , de Lange Charlotte , Try Kirsti , Lindberg Harald L , Skulstad Helge , Erikssen Gunnar , Edvardsen Thor , Haugaa Kristina , Estensen Mette E
Published: January 2021

Objective

Patients with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) have high survival rates 30 years after surgical repair. Many patients experience pregnancy; however, the effects of pregnancy on the long-term cardiovascular outcome are not well known. We investigated the association of pregnancy and cardiac function with occurrence of ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in women with TOF.

Methods

We recruited 80 women with repaired TOF from the national database. Holter monitoring or implanted devices detected VA, defined as non-sustained or sustained ventricular tachycardia or aborted cardiac arrest. All patients underwent echocardiography. Blood tests included NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide).

Results

55 (69%) women had experienced pregnancy. Mean age was lower in nulliparous compared with those with children (30±9 vs 40±9, p<0.01).

VA had occurred in 17 (21%) women. Prevalence of VA was higher in women who had experienced pregnancy (n=16, 94%) compared with nulliparous (n=1, 6%) (p=0.02), also when adjusted for age (OR 12.9 (95% CI 1.5 to 113.2), p=0.02).

Right ventricular mechanical dispersion was more pronounced in patients with VA (50±8 ms vs 39±14 ms, p=0.01, age-adjusted OR 2.1 (95% CI 1.3 to 7.5), p=0.01). NT-proBNP was also a marker of VA (211 ng/L (127 to 836) vs 139 ng/L (30 to 465), p=0.007). NT-proBNP >321 ng/L (normal values <170 ng/L) detected women with VA (p=0.019), also independent of age (OR 7.2 (95% CI 1.7 to 30.1), p=0.007).

Conclusion

Pregnancy was associated with higher prevalence of VA among women with TOF. Right ventricular mechanical dispersion and NT-proBNP were age-independent markers of VA. These may have importance for pregnancy counselling and risk stratification.
Paravertebral block for the prevention of chronic postsurgical pain after breast cancer surgery
Authors: Harkouk Hakim , Fletcher Dominique , Martinez Valeria
Published: January 2021

Patients frequently report chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) after breast cancer surgery (BCS). The paravertebral block (PVB) is an effective technique to reduce acute postoperative pain after BCS, but its efficacy in preventing CPSP is unclear. This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of PVB in preventing CPSP after BCS. We searched Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for studies comparing PVB with control for CPSP prevention after BCS, from inception to April 2020. The primary outcome was CPSP at 6 months, and the secondary outcomes were CPSP at 3 and 12 months, chronic postsurgical neuropathic pain (CPSNP) at 6 months, and PVB-related complications. Data were pooled and analyzed with a random-effects model, and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) system was used to evaluate the certainty of evidence. A total of 12 studies were included in the study; data for the 6-month time point from 7 studies (2161 patients) were analyzed, and no difference was found between PVB and control in terms of efficacy in preventing CPSP after BCS (risk ratio (RR) 0.82 (95% CI 0.62 to 1.08)), with a moderate quality of evidence according to the GRADE system. Similar results were obtained at 3 and 12 months (RR 0.78 (95% CI 0.57 to 1.06), RR 0.45 (95% CI 0.14 to 1.41), respectively). Data for the 12-month time point from seven studies (2087 patients) were analyzed and showed that PVB protected against CPSNP, with low quality of evidence (RR 0.51 (95% CI 0.31 to 0.85)). In conclusion, CPSP was not found significantly prevented by PVB after BCS despite the limits in the included studies; nevertheless, PVB could prevent CPSNP by impacting the transition from acute to chronic pain.
Effects of alcohol consumption and smoking on risk for RA: results from a Swedish prospective cohort study
Authors: Hedenstierna Louise , Bellocco Rino , Ye Weimin , Adami Hans-Olov , Åkerstedt Torbjörn , Trolle Lagerros Ylva , Hedström Anna Karin
Published: January 2021

Objective

Several, but not all studies, have shown a dose-dependent inverse association with alcohol consumption and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), whereas smoking is an established risk factor for RA. We aimed to study the association between alcohol consumption and RA incidence and investigate a potential interaction between alcohol and smoking habits, regarding RA incidence.

Methods

We used a prospective cohort study, based on 41 068 participants with detailed assessment of alcohol intake, smoking and potential confounders at baseline in 1997. We ascertained a total of 577 incident cases of RA during a mean of 17.7 years of follow-up through linkage to nationwide and essentially complete databases. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate HR with 95% CI. Interaction on the additive scale between alcohol and smoking was estimated by calculating the attributable proportion due to interaction (AP).

Results

Overall, alcohol consumption was associated with a 30% reduced incidence of RA (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.86) with a dose–response relationship (p value for trend <0.001) which remained significant after stratification by age and smoking habits. The positive association between smoking and RA incidence was reduced with increasing alcohol consumption (p value for trend <0.001). A synergistic effect was observed between alcohol and smoking (AP 0.40, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.64), indicating that 40% of the cases among the double exposed are due to the interaction per se.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest an inverse association between alcohol consumption and RA incidence, and a synergistic effect between alcohol and smoking.
Case for raising the minimum legal age of tobacco sale to 25
Authors: van der Eijk Yvette , Chen Jacinta I-Pei
Published: January 2021

Restricting youth access to tobacco is an essential component of a comprehensive tobacco control policy. While there has been a growing movement to raise the minimum legal age (MLA) of purchasing tobacco from 18 to 21, more restrictive measures, such as raising the MLA to 25 (MLA25), have been criticised as being overly restrictive on adult’s free choice. We argue that, even within a policy approach that prioritises freedom of choice, there is a strong case for MLA25 in view of neurobiological evidence which shows that, before age 25, people are neurobiologically vulnerable to developing an addiction. We discuss further considerations for an MLA25 policy, in particular its potential impact on the free choice of young adults to start or quit smoking, potential public health impact and potential effectiveness considering that most underage youth source cigarettes from older peers.
Hamiltonian Cycle Embeddings in Faulty Hypercubes Under the Forbidden Faulty Set Model
Authors: Li Chunfang , Lin Shangwei , Li Shengjia
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we study the fault-tolerant capability of hypercubes with respect to the hamiltonian property based on the concept of forbidden faulty sets. We show, with the assumption that each vertex is incident with at least three fault-free edges, that an [Formula: see text]-dimensional hypercube contains a fault-free hamiltonian cycle, even if there are up to [Formula: see text] edge faults. Moreover, we give an example to show that the result is optimal with respect to the number of edge faults tolerated.
Cryptanalysis of Cramer-Shoup Like Cryptosystems Based on Index Exchangeable Family
Authors: Liu Jinhui , Yu Yong , Yang Bo , Jia Jianwei , Lai Qiqi
Published: January 2021

The Cramer-Shoup (CS) like cryptosystem based on index exchangeable family (IEF) construction is a novel scheme introduced in Asiaccs 2016 by Li et al. Its versatility was illustrated by building two public key encryption (PKE) schemes, a cramer-shoup encryption scheme based on IEFs, as well as an outsourcing technique based on non-abelian analog. However, the two schemes are not secure over the recommended linear group of Li et al. For them, we provide a new key-recovery attack by solving a linear equation respectively. Furthermore, we peel off complex encryption and decryption processes and propose more than three different attack methods. Finally, we give a corresponding example to illustrate the correctness of our attack methods. Our attack methods break an instance of claiming 80 bit security less than one minute under a personal computer.
The Parallel Quantum Algorithm for the Class of Optimization
Authors: Xu Guanlei , Xu Xiaogang
Published: January 2021

For the given n numbers without any other prior information, how to obtain the minimum norm of them only by assigning their signs before them? Moreover, how to know one number is the multiplication of which ones in the given n numbers? In classical solutions, enumeration is the only way via trying one by one, whose complexity is about [Formula: see text] and this is a NP problem. In this paper, the parallel quantum algorithm is proposed to solve the two questions shown in above. Through the quantum design of linear expressions of angles in parallel circuits, only [Formula: see text] time’s quantum operations and about [Formula: see text] times’ quantum measurements in the average will give the correct answer in the successful probability of 0.97 instead of the traditional [Formula: see text] times. The example and theoretical analysis demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Preparation of Stable Hydrophilic Polyethyleneimine Cross-Linked Graphene Oxide/Titanium Dioxide Membranes for Dye Separation
Authors: Liu Hongwei , Liu Jinhua , Li Jun , Liu Zhanchao , Wu Weifu , Song Yunfeng , Liu Yan
Published: January 2021

An excellent novel laminar and hierarchical polyethyleneimine cross-linked graphene oxide/titanium dioxide (GO–TiO2–PEI) membrane was successfully prepared by vacuum filtration technology using polyethyleneimine (PEI) as the cross-linking agent and a GO–TiO2 nanocomposite as the substrate. The resultant membrane (GO–TiO2–PEI) displayed a favorable antifouling performance with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and showed good hydrophilicity and wettability, with a static water contact angle of 13.2∘. The stability of the GO–TiO2–PEI membrane in aqueous solution obviously improved with the cross-linking of PEI compared with that of the GO and GO–TiO2 membranes. The GO–TiO2–PEI membrane also exhibited a satisfactory water flux of 48.6[Formula: see text]L m[Formula: see text] h[Formula: see text] bar[Formula: see text]. The GO–TiO2–PEI membrane exhibited a good performance for effectively separating different dyes including methylene blue (MB), rhodamine B (RB), methyl orange (MO), sunset yellow (SY), new coccine (NC) and amaranth. All the above results suggested that the GO–TiO2–PEI membrane could be used as an excellent stable hydrophilic membrane for efficiently separating dyes from aqueous solution.
Emplacement of the Little Minch Sill Complex, Sea of Hebrides Basin, NW Scotland
Authors: Fyfe Laura-Jane C. , Schofield Nick , Holford Simon P. , Jerram Dougal A. , Hartley Adrian
Published: January 2021

The Little Minch Sill Complex consists of a series of stacked, multi-leaved Paleocene dolerite sills, which have primarily intruded into Mesozoic sedimentary rocks and Paleocene tuffs/?hyaloclastites within the Sea of Hebrides Basin. The Sea of Hebrides Basin is situated to the west of the Scottish mainland on the NE Atlantic margin. Two previously proposed models for the emplacement of the sill complex have opposing ideas for the location of magma input and the emplacement mechanisms. Both models have been constructed using data primarily from onshore outcrops on the Isle of Skye, Raasay and the Shiant Isles. However, these onshore outcrops only represent a quarter (1040 km
2
) of the entire extent of the sill complex, which is largely located offshore. To understand how the sill complex as a whole was emplaced within the basin, both onshore and offshore magma transport needs to be considered. Using high-resolution multibeam bathymetry data (up to 2 m resolution) obtained between 2008 and 2011, along with supporting seismic reflection, sparker and pinger data, a new assessment of the offshore extent and character of the sill complex has been constructed. Mapping of the large-scale relationships between intrusions and the host rock, along with morphological features such as magma lobes, magma fingers, transgressive wings, en echelon feeder dykes and the axis of saucer-/half-saucer-shaped intrusions, has indicated the magma flow directions within the intrusive network. Assessing the flow kinematics of the sills has provided insights into magma transport and emplacement processes offshore. Combining data from previously mapped onshore sills with data from our newly constructed model for magma emplacement offshore has allowed us to construct a new model for the emplacement of the Little Minch Sill Complex. This model demonstrates that major basin-bounding faults may have a lesser role in channelling magma through sedimentary basins than previously thought. Applying the knowledge obtained from this study could further progress our understanding of the effect of sill emplacement on fluid flow within volcanic rift basins worldwide, with direct impacts on the exploitation of petroleum and geothermal systems.
Current situation of early warning and emergency countermeasures of volcanic eruptions in China
Authors: Wang Xinru , Pan Bo , Pan Mao , Liang Yiqiang
Published: January 2021

Volcanic eruptions, as major natural disasters, often cause considerable numbers of casualties and economic losses. Given the substantial potential hazards posed to society, volcanic eruptions have become a central concern for national public safety systems. This paper introduces the risk degrees and classification of activity of major active volcanoes in China, reviews early warning policies in the government response to volcanic eruptions, compares the early warning levels of China and the USA, and proposes an early warning theme adapted to the characteristics of volcanic activity in mainland China. The current volcanic warning system of China still has considerable room for improvement; therefore, improvements in monitoring volcanic activities and the antihazard capacity of volcanic eruption in the future are urgently needed.
Type I diabetes suppresses intracellular calcium ion increase normally evoked by heat stress in rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Ikegami Ryo , Eshima Hiroaki , Nakajima Toshiaki , Toyoda Shigeru , Poole David C. , Kano Yutaka
Published: January 2021

Heat stress, via its effects on muscle intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i), has been invoked as a putative therapeutic countermeasure to type 1 diabetes-induced muscle atrophy. Using a circulation- and neurally intact in vivo muscle preparation, we tested the hypothesis that impaired muscle Ca2+ homeostasis in type 1 diabetic rats is due to attenuated heat stress tolerance mediated via transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of the following four groups: 1) healthy control 30°C (CONT 30°C); 2) CONT 40°C; 3) diabetes 30°C (DIA 30°C); and 4) DIA 40°C. The temperature of 40°C was selected because it exceeds the TRPV1 activation threshold. Spinotrapezius muscles of Wistar rats were exteriorized in vivo and loaded with the fluorescent Ca2+ probe Fura-2 AM. [Ca2+]i was estimated over 20 min using fluorescence microscopy (340/380 nm ratio) in quiescent muscle held at the required temperature, using a calibrated heat source applied to the ventral muscle surface. Western blotting was performed to determine the protein expression levels of TRPV1 in spinotrapezius muscle. After 20 min of heat stress, the CONT 40°C condition induced a 12.3 ± 5% [Ca2+]i ( P < 0.05) elevation that was markedly absent in the DIA 40°C or other conditions. Thus, no significant differences were found among DIA 40°C, DIA 30°C, and CONT 30°C. TRPV1 protein expression was decreased by 42.0 ± 9% in DIA compared with CONT ( P < 0.05) and, unlike CONT, heat stress did not increase TRPV1 phosphorylation. In conclusion, diabetes suppresses TRPV1 protein expression and function and inhibits the elevated myocyte [Ca2+]i evoked normally by heat stress. These results suggest that capsaicin or other therapeutic strategies to increase Ca2+ accumulation via TRPV1 might be more effective than hyperthermic therapy for type 1 diabetic patients.
Exogenous GLP-1 stimulates TCA cycle and suppresses gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis in late-fasted northern elephant seals pups
Authors: Dhillon Jaapna , Viscarra Jose A. , Newman John W. , Fiehn Oliver , Crocker Daniel E. , Ortiz Rudy M.
Published: January 2021

The postweaning fast of northern elephant seal pups is characterized by a lipid-dependent metabolism and associated with a decrease in plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), insulin, and glucose and increased gluconeogenesis (GNG) and ketogenesis. We have also demonstrated that exogenous GLP-1 infusion increased plasma insulin despite simultaneous increases in cortisol and glucagon, which collectively present contradictory regulatory stimuli of GNG, ketogenesis, and glycolysis. To assess the effects of GLP-1 on metabolism using primary carbon metabolite profiles in late-fasted seal pups, we dose-dependently infused late-fasted seals with low (LDG; 10 pM/kg; n = 3) or high (HDG; 100 pM/kg; n = 4) GLP-1 immediately following a glucose bolus (0.5 g/kg), using glucose without GLP-1 as control ( n = 5). Infusions were performed in similarly aged animals 6–8 wk into their postweaning fast. The plasma metabolome was measured from samples collected at five time points just prior to and during the infusions, and network maps constructed to robustly evaluate the effects of GLP-1 on primary carbon metabolism. HDG increased key tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle metabolites, and decreased phosphoenolpyruvate and acetoacetate ( P < 0.05) suggesting that elevated levels of GLP-1 promote glycolysis and suppress GNG and ketogenesis, which collectively increase glucose clearance. These GLP-1-mediated effects on cellular metabolism help to explain why plasma GLP-1 concentrations decrease naturally in fasting pups as an evolved mechanism to help conserve glucose during the late-fasting period.
Retinoic acid receptor alpha activation is necessary and sufficient for plasticity induced by recurrent central apnea
Authors: Braegelmann Kendra M. , Meza Armand , Agbeh Abiye E. , Fields Daryl P. , Baker Tracy L.
Published: January 2021

Local mechanisms near phrenic motor neurons respond to reductions in respiratory-related synaptic inputs by triggering a chemoreflex-independent, proportional enhancement in inspiratory output, a form of plasticity called inactivity‐induced inspiratory motor facilitation (iMF). Here, we show that activation of spinal retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα) is necessary to trigger phrenic iMF, and that spinal RARα activation in the absence of respiratory neural activity deprivation is sufficient to elicit phrenic inspiratory facilitation.
Exercise protects against cardiac and skeletal muscle dysfunction in a mouse model of inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Huffman Kim M. , Andonian Brian J. , Abraham Dennis M. , Bareja Akshay , Lee David E. , Katz Lauren H. , Huebner Janet L. , Kraus William E. , White James P.
Published: January 2021

RA, even when controlled, is associated with skeletal muscle weakness and greater risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Using exercise as a therapeutic against, the progression of RA is often avoided due to fear of worsening RA pathology. We introduce the K/BxN mouse as an RA model to study both myocardial and skeletal muscle dysfunction. We show that endurance exercise can improve joint, cardiac, and skeletal muscle function in K/BxN mice, suggesting exercise may be beneficial for patients with RA.
Сardiac injury in rats with experimental posttraumatic stress disorder and mechanisms of its limitation in experimental posttraumatic stress disorder-resistant rats
Authors: Manukhina Eugenia B. , Tseilikman Vadim E. , Komelkova Maria V. , Lapshin Maxim S. , Goryacheva Anna V. , Kondashevskaya Marina V. , Mkhitarov Vladimir A. , Lazuko Svetlana S. , Tseilikman Olga B. , Sarapultsev Alexey P. , Dmitrieva Yulia A. , Strizhikov Viktor K. , Kuzhel Olga P. , Downey H. Fred
Published: January 2021

NEWS and NOTEWORTHY For the first time, rats exposed to stress were segregated into experimental PTSD (ePTSD)-susceptible and ePTSD-resistant rats. Cardiac injury, ECG changes, and impaired exercise tolerance were more pronounced in ePTSD-susceptible rats. Resistance to ePTSD was associated with decreased inflammation and oxidative stress and with increased protective heat shock protein 70. Results may help identify individuals at high risk of PTSD and also provide a foundation for developing preventive and therapeutic means to restrict PTSD-associated cardiac morbidity.
Omega-3 fatty acid modulation of serum and osteocyte tumor necrosis factor-α in adult mice exposed to ionizing radiation
Authors: Little-Letsinger Sarah E. , Turner Nancy D. , Ford John R. , Suva Larry J. , Bloomfield Susan A.
Published: January 2021

This is the first investigation, to our knowledge, to test the impact of a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids on multiple bone structural and biological outcomes following space-relevant radiation exposure. Novel in biological outcomes is the assessment of osteocyte responses to this stressor. These data also add to the growing evidence that low-dose exposures to even high-energy ion species like 56Fe may have neutral or even small positive impacts on bone.