bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New investigation of bats-hosts-reservoir-people coronavirus model and application to 2019-nCoV system
Authors: Gao Wei , Baskonus Haci Mehmet , Shi Li
Published: August 2020

According to the report presented by the World Health Organization, a new member of viruses, namely, coronavirus, shortly 2019-nCoV, which arised in Wuhan, China, on January 7, 2020, has been introduced to the literature. The main aim of this paper is investigating and finding the optimal values for better understanding the mathematical model of the transfer of 2019-nCoV from the reservoir to people. This model, named Bats-Hosts-Reservoir-People coronavirus (BHRPC) model, is based on bats as essential animal beings. By using a powerful numerical method we obtain simulations of its spreading under suitably chosen parameters. Whereas the obtained results show the effectiveness of the theoretical method considered for the governing system, the results also present much light on the dynamic behavior of the Bats-Hosts-Reservoir-People transmission network coronavirus model.
Time preference and personal value: a population-based cross-sectional study in Japan
Authors: Kawakami Norito , Watanabe Kazuhiro , Nishi Daisuke , Takagi Daisuke , Hashimoto Hideki , Tanaka Saori C.
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the association between time preference (i.e., time discounting and hyperbolic time discounting) and personal values (the areas of priority values and commitment to value) in a sample of adult community residents in Japan.

Methods

Data from respondents (N = 2787) who completed the wave 1 and 3 surveys of a three-wave panel study of adult community residents in municipalities in Tokyo and suburban areas spanning 2010–2017 were analysed. Time discount rate and hyperbolic discount were measured using a three-item choice-based scale at the wave 1. Areas of priority value at present and at age 15 were measured by 11 questions for different value areas at the wave 3; the commitment to value at present and age 15 was measured by the Personal Value Questionnaire-II (PVQ-II) at the wave 3. Linear regression analyses were conducted of priority areas of values and commitment to value on time preference indicators, adjusting for sociodemographic variables and childhood socioeconomic status.

Results

After excluding those with missing responses, data from 1880 and 1958 respondents were subject to analyses on time discounting and hyperbolic time discounting, respectively. Time discount rate was significantly and negatively associated with the value area of maintaining a stable life at present. Hyperbolic time discounting was significantly and negatively associated with the commitment to value at age 15.

Conclusion

There may be an association between time preference and personal values. Time discounting and hyperbolic time discounting may be associated with different aspects of personal values, i.e., area of priority values and commitment to value, respectively.
Definition and characteristics of acute exacerbation in adult patients with chronic rhinosinusitis: A systematic review
Authors: Wu Dawei , Bleier Benjamin , Wei Yongxiang
Published: August 2020

Background

Acute exacerbations (AE) in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) have been increasingly recognized as an important clinical issue. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current definitions and evaluation parameters of AE and then identify and quantify the clinical and immunopathologic characteristics of AE in CRS.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed on PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases from January 1990 through August 2020 to identify studies relating to AE in CRS. Exclusion criteria included non-English and non-human studies, and case reports.

Results

The definitions of AE in CRS among all the studies were based on a description of short-term worsening sinonasal symptoms. Patient-reported sinus infection and exacerbation related medical treatment during the preceding 3 months to 1 year were used to evaluate the frequency of AE in CRS. The average decline in 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) score during an exacerbation was 7.83 points relative to baseline. Comorbid asthma, SNOT-22 scores ≥24, allergic rhinitis, eosinophil count ≥150/μL and autoimmune disease were positively associated with an exacerbation-prone CRS phenotype. AE in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) was associated with increased expression of mucus cytokines including myeloperoxidase (percentage increase [PI] = 101%), IL-5 (PI = 125%), and IL-6 (PI = 162%) and could be predicted by the increasing mucus cystatin and periostin.

Conclusion

The definition of AE in CRS is largely driven by patient-reported symptoms and is associated with several risk factors. Quantitative changes in mucus cytokines associated with AE in CRSwNP and may be used to predict events. The development of a consistent definition of AE in CRS is critical to help define disease control and treatment efficacy.
RNA-recognition motif in Matrin-3 mediates neurodegeneration through interaction with hnRNPM
Authors: Ramesh Nandini , Kour Sukhleen , Anderson Eric N. , Rajasundaram Dhivyaa , Pandey Udai Bhan
Published: August 2020

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset, fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of upper and lower motor neurons. While pathogenic mutations in the DNA/RNA-binding protein Matrin-3 (MATR3) are linked to ALS and distal myopathy, the molecular mechanisms underlying MATR3-mediated neuromuscular degeneration remain unclear.

Methods

We generated Drosophila lines with transgenic insertion of human MATR3 wildtype, disease-associated variants F115C and S85C, and deletion variants in functional domains, ΔRRM1, ΔRRM2, ΔZNF1 and ΔZNF2. We utilized genetic, behavioral and biochemical tools for comprehensive characterization of our models in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, we employed in silico approaches to find transcriptomic targets of MATR3 and hnRNPM from publicly available eCLIP datasets.

Results

We found that targeted expression of MATR3 in Drosophila muscles or motor neurons shorten lifespan and produces progressive motor defects, muscle degeneration and atrophy. Strikingly, deletion of its RNA-recognition motif (RRM2) mitigates MATR3 toxicity. We identified rump, the Drosophila homolog of human RNA-binding protein hnRNPM, as a modifier of mutant MATR3 toxicity in vivo. Interestingly, hnRNPM physically and functionally interacts with MATR3 in an RNA-dependent manner in mammalian cells. Furthermore, common RNA targets of MATR3 and hnRNPM converge in biological processes important for neuronal health and survival.

Conclusions

We propose a model of MATR3-mediated neuromuscular degeneration governed by its RNA-binding domains and modulated by interaction with splicing factor hnRNPM.
BRAF V600E mutation mediates FDG-methionine uptake mismatch in polymorphous low-grade neuroepithelial tumor of the young
Authors: Tateishi Kensuke , Ikegaya Naoki , Udaka Naoko , Sasame Jo , Hayashi Takahiro , Miyake Yohei , Okabe Tetsuhiko , Minamimoto Ryogo , Murata Hidetoshi , Utsunomiya Daisuke , Yamanaka Shoji , Yamamoto Tetsuya
Published: August 2020

We present a case of a 14-year old boy with tumor-associated refractory epilepsy. Positron emission tomography imaging demonstrated a region with heterogeneous high 11C-methionine uptake and a region with homogenous low 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake within the tumor. Histopathological and genomic analyses confirmed the tumor as BRAF V600E-mutated polymorphous low-grade neuroepithelial tumor of the young (PLNTY). Within the high-methionine-uptake region, we observed increased protein levels of L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1), a major transporter of methionine; c-Myc; and constituents of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. We also found that LAT1 expression was linked to the BRAF V600E mutation and subsequent activation of MAPK signaling and c-Myc. Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of the MAPK pathway suppressed c-Myc and LAT1 expression in BRAF V600E-mutated PLNTY and glioblastoma cells. The BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib moderately suppressed cell viability in PLNTY. Collectively, our results indicate that BRAF V600E mutation-activated MAPK signaling and downstream c-Myc induces specific metabolic alterations in PLNTY, and may represent an attractive target in the treatment of the disease.
Development and validation of the role identity surveys in engineering (RIS-E) and STEM (RIS-STEM) for elementary students
Authors: Paul Kelli M. , Maltese Adam V. , Svetina Valdivia Dubravka
Published: August 2020

Background

Despite the increasing number of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) jobs available, concern continues to grow over the low number of students who choose to study and enter STEM fields. Research suggests that children begin to identify their interests and career aspirations related to STEM as early as elementary school when they begin to shape their personal identities and start making decisions about who theyareandcould bein the future, their role identities (e.g., scientist, engineer). Existing surveys that assess identity target high school or post-secondary students, with less work on elementary and middle school students. This paper describes the development and validation of survey instruments to assess engineering identity in elementary students and its adaptation to a more general STEM context.

Results

The role identity survey in engineering (RIS-E) was developed across four phases of pilot testing where it was administered to 634 students in third–sixth grade enrolled in classrooms in the West, Midwest, and Northeastern United States. Exploratory modeling approaches and scale reliability were used to narrow down items, while confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) and item response theory (IRT) approaches were used to examine item performance. The final survey contained four scales that assess aspects of one’s identity (competence, interest, self-recognition, and recognition by others), all of which demonstrated strong psychometric properties. The RIS-E was then adapted to assess STEM identity (RIS-STEM), and it was administered to 678 fourth–fifth grade students enrolled in classrooms in the Southwestern United States. CFA and IRT analyses provided support for use of the RIS-STEM in a more general STEM context.

Conclusions

The RIS-E and RIS-STEM appear to produce reliable scores that measure aspects of identity (engineering and STEM) in elementary students. Suggestions are made for future studies to examine how the RIS-E and RIS-STEM function across diverse student populations and the impact on one’s identity as a result of curricula or programs designed to encourage and support identity development in youth, especially in engineering and STEM.
Oxygen torus and its coincidence with EMIC wave in the deep inner magnetosphere: Van Allen Probe B and Arase observations
Authors: Nosé M. , Matsuoka A. , Kumamoto A. , Kasahara Y. , Teramoto M. , Kurita S. , Goldstein J. , Kistler L. M. , Singh S. , Gololobov A. , Shiokawa K. , Imajo S. , Oimatsu S. , Yamamoto K. , Obana Y. , Shoji M. , Tsuchiya F. , Shinohara I. , Miyoshi Y. , Kurth W. S. , Kletzing C. A. , Smith C. W. , MacDowall R. J. , Spence H. , Reeves G. D.
Published: August 2020

We investigate the longitudinal structure of the oxygen torus in the inner magnetosphere for a specific event found on 12 September 2017, using simultaneous observations from the Van Allen Probe B and Arase satellites. It is found that Probe B observed a clear enhancement in the average plasma mass (M) up to 3–4 amu at L = 3.3–3.6 and magnetic local time (MLT) = 9.0 h. In the afternoon sector at MLT ~ 16.0 h, both Probe B and Arase found no clear enhancements in M. This result suggests that the oxygen torus does not extend over all MLT but is skewed toward the dawn. Since a similar result has been reported for another event of the oxygen torus in a previous study, a crescent-shaped torus or a pinched torus centered around dawn may be a general feature of the O+ density enhancement in the inner magnetosphere. We newly find that an electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave in the H+ band appeared coincidently with the oxygen torus. From the lower cutoff frequency of the EMIC wave, the ion composition of the oxygen torus is estimated to be 80.6% H+, 3.4% He+, and 16.0% O+. According to the linearized dispersion relation for EMIC waves, both He+ and O+ ions inhibit EMIC wave growth and the stabilizing effect is stronger for He+ than O+. Therefore, when the H+ fraction or M is constant, the denser O+ ions are naturally accompanied by the more tenuous He+ ions, resulting in a weaker stabilizing effect (i.e., larger growth rate). From the Probe B observations, we find that the growth rate becomes larger in the oxygen torus than in the adjacent regions in the plasma trough and the plasmasphere.
Self-similar stochastic slip distributions on a non-planar fault for tsunami scenarios for megathrust earthquakes
Authors: Nakano Masaru , Murphy Shane , Agata Ryoichiro , Igarashi Yasuhiko , Okada Masato , Hori Takane
Published: August 2020

Megathrust earthquakes that occur repeatedly along the plate interface of subduction zones can cause severe damage due to strong ground motion and the destructive tsunamis they can generate. We developed a set of scenario earthquakes to evaluate tsunami hazards and tsunami early warning systems for such devastating earthquakes. Although it is known that the slip distribution on a fault strongly affects the tsunami height distribution in near-field coastal areas, the slip distribution of future earthquakes cannot be exactly predicted. One way to resolve this difficulty is to create a set of scenario earthquakes in which a set of heterogeneous slip distributions on the source fault is stochastically generated based on a given slip probability density function (SPDF). The slip distributions generated in this manner differ from event to event, but their average over a large ensemble of models converges to a predefined SPDF resembling the long-term average of ruptures on the target fault zone. We created a set of SPDF-based scenario earthquakes for an expected future Mw8.2 Tonankai earthquake in the eastern half of the Nankai trough, off southwest Japan, and computed the ensuing tsunamis. We found that the estimated peak coastal amplitudes among the ensemble of tsunamis along the near-field coast differed by factors of 3 to 9, and the earliest and latest arrivals at each observation site differed by 400 to 700 s. The variations in both peak tsunami amplitude and arrival time at each site were well approximated by a Gaussian distribution. For cases in which the slip distribution is unknown, the average and standard deviation of these scenario datasets can provide first approximations of forecast tsunami height and arrival time and their uncertainties, respectively. At most coastal observation sites, tsunamis modeled similarly but using a uniform slip distribution underpredicted tsunami amplitudes but gave earlier arrival times than those modeled with a heterogeneous slip distribution. Use of these earlier arrival times may be useful for providing conservative early warnings of tsunami arrivals. Therefore, tsunami computations for both heterogeneous and uniform slip distributions are important for tsunami disaster mitigation.

Graphical abstract
Association of the ward pharmacy service with active implementation of therapeutic drug monitoring for vancomycin and teicoplanin—an epidemiological surveillance study using Japanese large health insurance claims database
Authors: Imai Shungo , Momo Kenji , Kashiwagi Hitoshi , Miyai Takayuki , Sugawara Mitsuru , Takekuma Yoh
Published: August 2020

Background

Ward pharmacists are required for the active implementation of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). This epidemiological study verified whether Japanese ward pharmacists contribute to improving the TDM implementation proportions of anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) agents using the large health insurance claims database.

Methods

The patients who received intravenous anti-MRSA agents from April 2012 to March 2017 were enrolled. We defined ward pharmacy service as the “drug management and guidance fee” and/or “inpatient pharmaceutical services premium”. In addition, implementation of TDM was identified by “the specific drug treatment management fee”. We compared the proportions of TDM implementation for vancomycin (VCM), teicoplanin (TEIC), and arbekacin (ABK) in the ward and non-ward pharmacy service groups. To avoid confounding, the propensity score method was employed. Moreover, the clinical variables affecting TDM implementation in each anti-MRSA agent were analyzed by using a multiple logistic regression model.

Results

The following number of patients were included in the study: VCM (n = 2138), TEIC (n = 596), and ABK (n = 142). After propensity score matching, the proportions of TDM implementation for VCM and TEIC were higher in the ward pharmacy service group than in the non-ward pharmacy service group (VCM: 69.2% vs 60.3%, TEIC: 51.4% vs 34.7%), while no significant difference was observed for ABK (21.2% vs 23.1%). As independent clinical variables affecting TDM implementation for VCM and TEIC, several clinical variables, including ward pharmacy services, were extracted. In contrast, no clinical variables were extracted for ABK.

Conclusions

We found that the ward pharmacy service is associated with the active implementation of TDM for anti-MRSA agents, such as VCM and TEIC.
Rapidly progressed neuroendocrine carcinoma in the extrahepatic bile duct: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kamiya Mariko , Yamamoto Naoto , Kamioka Yuto , Inoue Hirohide , Yotsumoto Hirokazu , Murakawa Masaaki , Aoyama Toru , Washimi Kota , Kawachi Kae , Oshima Takashi , Ueno Makoto , Yukawa Norio , Rino Yasushi , Masuda Munetaka , Morinaga Soichiro
Published: August 2020

Background

Neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) originating from the extrahepatic bile duct (EHBD) is very rare but is known for its aggressiveness and poor prognosis. We herein report a case of rapidly progressed NEC in the extrahepatic bile duct.

Case presentation

An 84-year-old man was referred to our facility with obstructive jaundice and abdominal pain. Imaging studies revealed an irregular filling defect in the middle bile duct by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and an enhanced wall thickening from the middle to distal portion by enhanced computed tomography. The patient was initially diagnosed with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma by a bile duct biopsy and underwent pancreatoduodenectomy with lymph node dissection. The pathological findings showed an NEC with an adenosquamous carcinoma component in the extrahepatic bile duct with lymph node metastases. The patient experienced multiple liver metastases 1 month after surgery and died 3 months after surgery. Due to the rapid progression of his disease, his general condition deteriorated, and he was unable to receive any additional treatments, such as chemotherapy.

Conclusion

As shown in our case, NEC of the EHBD has an extremely poor prognosis and can sometimes progress rapidly. Multimodality treatment should be considered, even in cases of locoregional disease.
Magnetic compression anastomosis is effective in treating stenosis after esophageal cancer surgery: a case report
Authors: Isozaki Tetsuro , Murakami Kentaro , Yamanouchi Eigoro , Uesato Masaya , Toyozumi Takeshi , Koide Yoshio , Tsukamoto Soichiro , Sakata Haruhito , Hayano Koichi , Kano Masayuki , Hayashi Hideki , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: August 2020

Background

Esophagostomy is important in the treatment of esophageal cancer. However, esophagectomy has a higher risk of postoperative complications. Treatment for complications is often difficult, and in some cases, oral intake is no longer possible. Recently, magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) was developed; it is a relatively safe method of anastomosis that does not require surgery in patients with stricture, obstruction, or dehiscence of the anastomosis after surgery.

Case presentation

The patient was a 76-year-old Japanese man. He underwent esophagectomy with a three-field dissection for esophageal cancer. A cervical esophagostomy and chest drainage were performed for necrosis of the gastric tube. Following infection control, colon interposition was performed. However, after the operation, the colon necrotized and formed an abscess. Drainage controlled the infection, but the colon was completely obstructed. The patient was referred to our hospital to restore oral ingestion. Contrast studies showed that the length of the occlusion was 10 mm. The reconstruction was examined; reanastomosis by surgery was judged to be a high risk, so the strategy of anastomosis by MCA was adopted. In the operation, the anterior chest was opened to expose the colon, and a magnet was inserted directly into the blind end of the colon. The magnet was guided to the blind end of the esophagus using an oral endoscope. Two weeks after MCA, a contrast study confirmed the passage of the contrast agent from the esophagus to the colon. The patient eventually took 18 bougies after the MCA. However, since then, he has not needed a bougie. As of 1 year and 8 months after the MCA, the patient is living at home with oral intake restored.

Conclusions

MCA is an effective and safe treatment for complete stenosis after esophageal cancer surgery.
Unicompartmental vs. segmental bicompartmental vs. total knee replacement: comparison of clinical outcomes
Authors: Al-Dadah Oday , Hawes Georgina , Chapman-Sheath Philip J. , Tice John William , Barrett David S.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Combined medial tibiofemoral and symptomatic patellofemoral osteoarthritis is not amenable to unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR). Total knee replacement (TKR) is an invasive option in younger adults with high functional demands. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcome of patients who have undergone UKR, bicompartmental knee replacement (BKR) and TKR up to 2 years post-operatively.

Materials and methods

This prospective study comprised 133 subjects including 30 patients in the medial UKR group, 53 patients in the BKR group (combined medial UKR with patellofemoral joint replacement) and 50 patients in the TKR group. All subjects were evaluated using the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and the Western Ontario and MacMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Patients in each group were assessed using both scoring systems pre-operatively and 6 months, 1 year and 2 years post-operatively.

Results

Significant improvement of OKS was found at 6 months compared to baseline for UKR (22.7 to 38.1,p = 0.046), BKR (22.6 to 36.8,p < 0.001) and TKR (16.6 to 34.5,p < 0.001). Significant improvement was also found for the WOMAC sub-scores for all three groups during this time period. After 6 months, there was no further statistically significant improvement in either outcome score in any of the groups up to the 2-year follow-up results. There was no significant difference in either outcome score post-operatively between the three groups.

Conclusion

The magnitude of clinical improvement following knee replacement is greatest at 6 months; thereafter, only modest improvements continue to occur. This study also found no significant differences of outcomes at 2 years after surgery among UKR, BKR and TKR. BKR is a good alternative option for combined symptomatic medial and patellofemoral arthritis of the knee.
Prevalence of Opioid-Induced Adrenal Insufficiency in Patients Taking Chronic Opioids
Authors: Li Taoran , Cunningham Julie L , Gilliam Wesley P , Loukianova Larissa , Donegan Diane M , Bancos Irina
Published: August 2020

Context

Chronic opioid use may lead to adrenal insufficiency because of central suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. However, the prevalence of opioid-induced adrenal insufficiency (OIAI) is unclear.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of OIAI and to identify predictors for the development of OIAI in patients taking opioids for chronic pain.

Design

Cross-sectional study, 2016-2018.

Setting

Referral center.

Patients

Adult patients taking chronic opioids admitted to the Pain Rehabilitation Center.

Main outcome measure

Diagnosis of OIAI was considered if positive case detection (cortisol < 10 mcg/dL, ACTH < 15 pg/mL, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate < 25 mcg/dL), and confirmed after endocrine evaluation. Daily morphine milligram equivalent (MME) was calculated.

Results

In 102 patients (median age, 53 years [range, 22-83], 67% women), median daily MME was 60 mg (3-840), and median opioid therapy duration was 60 months (3-360). Abnormal case detection testing was found in 11 (10.8%) patients, and diagnosis of OIAI was made in 9 (9%). Patients with OIAI were on a higher daily MME (median, 140 [20-392] mg vs 57 [3-840] mg, P = 0.1), and demonstrated a 4 times higher cumulative opioid exposure (median of 13,440 vs 3120 mg*months, P = 0.03). No patient taking  20 mg); however, specificity of MME cutoff >20 mg was only 19%. After opioid discontinuation, 6/7 patients recovered adrenal function.

Conclusion

The prevalence of OIAI was 9%, with MME cumulative exposure being the only predictor for OIAI development. Patients on MME of 20 mg/day and above should be monitored for OIAI.
Premature Adrenarche in Girls Characterized By Enhanced 17,20-Lyase and 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Activities
Authors: Janner Marco , Sommer Grit , Groessl Michael , Flück Christa E
Published: August 2020

Context

Girls with premature adrenarche (PA) may have a higher risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and metabolic syndrome. The biological purpose of adrenarche is unknown and the role of novel biosynthetic pathways remains unclear.

Objective

To compare the urinary steroid metabolome and enzyme activities of girls with PA to age-matched control girls and to published steroid values of girls with normal adrenarche and of women with PCOS and their newborn daughters.

Design

Prospective observational study from 2009 to 2014.

Setting

Academic pediatric endocrinology referral center.

Participants

Twenty-three girls with PA and 22 healthy, age-matched girls.

Main Outcome Measures

Steroid metabolites in 24-hour urine samples, including 4 progesterones, 5 corticosterones, aldosterone, 13 androgens, 2 estrogens, 14 glucocorticoids, and enzyme activities represented by metabolite ratios.

Results

Girls with PA had a higher body mass index (mean standard deviation scores 0.9 vs -0.3, P = 0.013). Androgen excretion was higher in PA girls than in control girls (median 3257 nmol/24 hours vs 1627 nmol/24 hours, P < 0.001), in particular metabolites from alternate androgen pathways. The amount of progesterone, corticosterone, aldosterone, estrogen, and cortisol metabolites were similar between groups. Activities of 17β-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase and of 17,20-lyase were higher in girls with PA. Activities of 3β-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase, 21-hydroxylase, and 5α-reductase activity were not different between groups, in contrast to published results on girls with normal adrenarche or PCOS females.

Conclusions

Metabolites and enzymes involved in alternate androgen pathways appear to be markers of PA. Prospective studies should assess whether steroid production in PA also differs from adrenarche at normal timing and persists into adulthood.
Gut Microbiota and Oral Contraceptive Use in Overweight and Obese Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Eyupoglu Nesrin Damla , Ergunay Koray , Acikgoz Aylin , Akyon Yakut , Yilmaz Engin , Yildiz Bulent Okan
Published: August 2020

Context

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common and complex endocrine disorder. Emerging animal and human data point to various changes in microbiota that could be linked with the syndrome. However, the effects of therapeutic approaches on gut microbial composition in women with PCOS remain unknown.

Objective

We aimed to assess whether gut microbial composition is altered in PCOS and to determine the potential impact of oral contraceptive (OC) use on gut microbiota.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Tertiary referral hospital.

Patients and Other Participants

The study included 17 overweight/obese patients with PCOS and 15 age- and body mass index-matched healthy control women.

Main Outcome Measures

At baseline, clinical, hormonal, and metabolic evaluations and gut microbial composition assessment by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing were performed for both groups. All measurements were repeated in patients after receiving an OC along with general lifestyle advice for 3 months.

Results

Alpha and beta diversity did not show a difference between patients with PCOS and healthy controls at baseline and remained unaltered after 3 months of OC use in the PCOS group. Relative abundance of Ruminococcaceae was higher in PCOS (P = 0.006) and did not show a significant change after treatment.

Conclusion

Women with PCOS have an increased abundance of Ruminococcaceae, whereas short-term OC use does not alter compositional features of gut microbiota in the syndrome.
Invisible Strangers, or Romani History Reconsidered
Authors: Richardson Kristina L.
Published: August 2020

This essay proposes that the invisibility of so-called Gypsies in Middle Eastern and Central Asian historiography derives from two linked phenomena. First, the work of nineteenth- and twentieth-century European and North American philologists, medievalists, and ethnographers delegitimized the languages of the “Strangers,” along with the cultures and histories that these languages expressed. The erasure of Strangers from modern historiography was nearly total. Second, the category of Strangers was transformed in the wake of the Holocaust as Roma activists drew on Nazi racial categories to base Roma identity on linguistic criteria.
Identity
Authors: Haider Asad
Published: August 2020

This article explores the history and meaning of the term identity politics, along with the term identity itself. It focuses on the history of the deployment of this language within social movements and academic political debates, attempting to trace its relation to the prospects for emancipatory politics.
Institution Based Solar Steam Cooking Systems in India
Authors: AGGARWAL R K
Published: August 2020

Large amount of conventional fuels like coal, wood and LPG are being used for community cooking resulting emission of greenhouse gases. Concentrating type parabolic dish can generate temperature upto 350-4000C thus, suitable for cooking purposes. The solar steam cooking system can cook food for 50 - 25,000 persons daily. A number of solar steam cooking systems installed at various institutions have been presented. Keeping this in view, a solar steam cooking system for 1500 students is being proposed at Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni campus. Design specifications and possible applications have also been presented.
Analysis of Ambient Air Quality Based On Exceedance Factor and Air Quality Index for Siliguri City, West Bengal
Authors: Roy Subham , Singha Nimai
Published: August 2020

Bad air is one of the key concerns for most of the urban centres today, and Siliguri is no exceptions to this. In order to assess the air quality of Siliguri, Exceedance factor (EF) method was applied based on the average annual concentration of the pollutants named as; NO2, SO2, PM2.5 and PM10 and it is found that PM2.5 and PM10 are the major pollutants that pose a severe threat for the city. After applying the EF method, it is found that the values of PM2.5 was between moderate to high pollution level and for PM10 it falls under high to critical pollution level. On the other hand, the concentration of NO2 and SO2 falls under moderate to low pollution level. Through trend analysis of the various pollutants, it is found that their concentration was varying in nature. In case of PM10, the trend shows high concentration which exceeds national standard; whereas PM2.5 shows its concentration near towards violating the national standard soon if not checked. In contrast, trends of NO2 and SO2 were recorded lower than the national standard. The present situation of ambient air of Siliguri was analyzed based on Air Quality Index which reveals that air quality of the city can be classified into two seasons, i.e. clean air period (from April to October) and polluted period (from November to March). Lastly, the annual trends of PM2.5 and PM10 were constructed as they are the major pollutants, and it shows their skewed nature during winter months which results in smog episodes. It unveils how critical the situation of air quality of Siliguri became especially during winter months which seek immediate attention. Thus the study tries to present a vivid scenario about the present air quality of Siliguri, which concludes with some of the suggestions to restrain the air quality.
Managing canine status epilepticus in practice
Authors: Foreman Max , Cherubini Giunio Bruto
Published: August 2020

Status epilepticus is a common emergency encountered in general practice, and one that can be daunting for many to manage. This review summarises the main considerations for patients presenting in status epilepticus, and discusses the treatment options available, specifically with regard to medications that are likely to be available to the general practitioner.
Poisons affecting the cardiovascular system
Authors: Bates Nicola
Published: August 2020

Cardiac and cardiovascular function can be affected by numerous substances, including overdose of drugs for cardiac and cardiovascular conditions, drugs used in the management of other diseases, over-the-counter medicines and supplements, foods and natural toxins such as plants. A common cause of tachycardia in dogs is exposure to salbutamol from piercing an asthma inhaler. Cardiac drugs such as beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers can cause hypotension and disrupt cardiac rhythm. Although severe cases are not common in companion animals, management may be complex, requiring high dose insulin therapy and/or lipid emulsion therapy. The methylxanthines caffeine and theobromine, which are found in foods, and caffeine in supplements, are readily accessible to pets and can cause central nervous system and muscle (including cardiac muscle) stimulation. Animals with pre-existing cardiac disease or those with a mixed cardiotoxic drug overdose are likely to be more at risk of effects after exposure to substances affecting the cardiovascular system. Support of cardiac and cardiovascular function is essential to prevent cardiac injury and maintain tissue perfusion. Specific management depends on the severity of clinical signs and the particular substance involved.
Help to ensure that owners don't make this bonfire night a night to remember!
Authors: Hargrave Claire
Published: August 2020

The 2020 firework season will pose a huge welfare problem for many pets. Claire Hargrave explains how you can prepare owners of all companion animals for this noisy time of year.
Femoro-pedal distraction in staged reconstructive treatment of tibial aplasia
Authors: Laufer Andrea , Frommer Adrien , Gosheger Georg , Roedl Robert , Broeking Jan Niklas , Toporowski Gregor , Rachbauer Anna Maria , Vogt Bjoern
Published: August 2020

Aims

The treatment of tibial aplasia is controversial. Amputation represents the gold standard with good functional results, but is frequently refused by the families. In these patients, treatment with reconstructive limb salvage can be considered. Due to the complexity of the deformity, this remains challenging and should be staged. The present study evaluated the role of femoro-pedal distraction using a circular external fixator in reconstructive treatment of tibial aplasia. The purpose of femoro-pedal distraction is to realign the limb and achieve soft tissue lengthening to allow subsequent reconstructive surgery.

Methods

This was a retrospective study involving ten patients (12 limbs) with tibial aplasia, who underwent staged reconstruction. During the first operation a circular hexapod external fixator was applied and femoro-pedal distraction was undertaken over several months. Subsequent surgery included reconstruction of the knee joint and alignment of the foot.

Results

The mean follow-up was 7.1 years (2 to 10). The mean age of the patients at the time of the application of the fixator was 2.3 years (1.1 to 5.0). The mean time under distraction was 139.7 days (81.0 to 177.0). A mean fibular distalization of 38.7 mm (14.0 to 67.0) was achieved. Pin infections occurred in four limbs (33.3%) and osteitis in one. A femoral fracture occurred in one patient. Premature removal of the frame was not required in any patient. Sufficient realignment of the leg as well as soft tissue lengthening was achieved in all patients, allowing subsequent reconstruction. All patients were able to mobilize fully weight bearing after reconstruction. Functional outcome was limited in all limbs, and five patients (50.0%) required additional reconstructive operations.

Conclusion

Regarding the functional results in the treatment of tibial aplasia, amputation remains superior to limb salvage. The latter procedure should only be performed in patients whose parents refuse amputation. Femoro-pedal distraction efficiently prepares the limb by realigning the leg and soft tissue lengthening. Minor complications are frequent, but usually do not hinder the continuation of distraction. Even though a fully weight-bearing limb is achieved, the functional outcome of reconstructive treatment remains limited. Recurrent deformities frequently occur and may require further operations. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1248–1255.
What happens to the long head of the biceps tendon after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?
Authors: Lee Hyo-Jin , Kim Eung-Sic , Kim Yang-Soo
Published: August 2020

Aims

The purpose of this study was to identify the changes in untreated long head of the biceps brachii tendon (LHBT) after a rotator cuff tear and to evaluate the factors related to the changes.

Methods

A cohort of 162 patients who underwent isolated supraspinatus with the preservation of LHBT was enrolled and evaluated. The cross-sectional area (CSA) of the LHBT on MRI was measured in the bicipital groove, and preoperative to postoperative difference was calculated at least 12 months postoperatively. Second, postoperative changes in the LHBT including intratendinous signal change, rupture, dislocation, or superior labral lesions were evaluated with seeking of factors that were correlated with the changes or newly developed lesions after rotator cuff repair.

Results

The postoperative CSA (12.5 mm2(SD 8.3) was significantly larger than preoperative CSA (11.5 mm2(SD 7.5); p = 0.005). In total, 32 patients (19.8%) showed morphological changes in the untreated LHBT 24 months after rotator cuff repair. Univariate regression analysis revealed that the factor chiefly related to the change in LHBT status was an eccentric LHBT position within the groove found on preoperative MRI (p = 0.011). Multivariate analysis using logistic regression also revealed that an eccentric LHBT position was a factor related to postoperative change in untreated LHBTs (p = 0.011).

Conclusion

The CSA of the LHBT inside the biceps groove increased after rotator cuff repair. The preoperative presence of an eccentrically positioned LHBT was associated with further changes of the tendon itself after rotator cuff repair. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1194–1199.
Talking points for the safe and effective alleviation of pain
Authors: Brown Laura E. , Fatehi Amirreza , Ring David
Published: August 2020

Evidence suggests that the alleviation of pain is enhancedby a strong patient-clinician relationship and attending to a patient’s social and mental health. There is a limited role for medication, opioids in particular.

Orthopaedic surgeons can use comprehensive biopsychosocial strategies to help people recover and can work with colleagues who have the appropriate expertise in order to maximize pain alleviation with optimal opioid stewardship.

Preparing patients for elective surgery and caring for them after unplanned injury or surgery can benefit from planned and practiced strategies based in communication science.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(9):1122–1127.
Making Decisions in the New Normal
Authors: Mu Enrique
Published: August 2020

Welcome to our second IJAHP issue in 2020.  This issue is being published at a very special moment for our community and the world. The challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic highlight the need, more than ever, for making rational decisions in the face of multiple conflicting objectives (e.g., legal, health and economic outcomes). Multi-criteria decision-making has never been more important than in the current crisis.
SOIL DENSITY AND OPTIMUM MOISTURE FOR SOIL COMPACTION IN FIVE SOIL CLASSES IN WESTERN BAHIA STATE
Authors: Araújo Gustavo Tenório , Soares Neto Joaquim Pedro , Nunes Heliab Bomfim
Published: August 2020

The transformation of natural ecosystems into agricultural environments modifies the soil structure and it may result in its compaction. Therefore, the objective of this work was to determine the optimum moisture for soil compaction (wot) and maximum soil compaction density (Dsmax) in different soil classes in western Bahia State. The samples were collected in five sites covering different soil classes: Orthic Quartzarenic Neosol (RQ), Orthic Ebanic Vertisol (VEo), Haplic Cambisol (CX) and two Red-Yellow Latosol, one already cropped (LVA) and another with native forest (LVA1).  Wot and Dsmax were determined according to ABNT NBR 7182 (1986) standards. Data were submitted to a regression analysis and also to the analysis of the principal components (PCA).  Wot presented a decreasing order: VEo> LVA> LVA1> CX> RQo, ranging between 8.20 and 15.00% and Dsmax showed the following order RQo> LVA> LVA1> CX> VE, ranging between 1.34 and 1,92 Mg.m-3. The wot was directly proportional to the clay content and the organic carbon and inversely proportional to the soil sand content. For Dsmax, the influence of the clay was inversely proportional whereas in wot, this variable promoted the growth.
Adult foster care of older people
Authors: Leinonen Raija , Kuukkanen Maria
Published: August 2020

The focus of this article is to introduce the community-based adult foster care of older people in Finland. Although adult foster care is a public care service, it is organised in a private home, either in the foster carer’s home or in the older person’s home. The foster carer and the county make a commission agreement. Adult foster care can be full-time long-term care or short-term full-time or part-time care.
Rapid imaging of tympanic membrane vibrations in humans
Authors: Hamra Matan , Shinnawi Shadi , Vaizer Mauricio Cohen , Yelin Dvir
Published: August 2020

Functional imaging of the human ear is an extremely challenging task because of its minute anatomic structures and nanometer-scale motion in response to sound. Here, we demonstrate noninvasive in vivo functional imaging of the human tympanic membrane under various acoustic excitations, and identify unique vibration patterns that vary between human subjects. By combining spectrally encoded imaging with phase-sensitive spectral-domain interferometry, our system attains high-resolution functional imaging of the two-dimensional membrane surface, within a fraction of a second, through a handheld imaging probe. The detailed physiological data acquired by the system would allow measuring a wide range of clinically relevant parameters for patient diagnosis, and provide a powerful new tool for studying middle and inner ear physiology.
Theoretical investigation on the properties of polarization selection and asymmetric absorption for the ITO nanowire material
Authors: Wan Baofei , Guo Sijia , Zhou Ziwei , Zhang Dan , Zhang Haifeng
Published: August 2020

In this paper, the features of the polarization selection and broadband asymmetric absorption based on the indium tin oxide (ITO) nanowire are studied theoretically. Only two layers of ITO material are introduced into our design, and such a structure is relatively simple. For a single-layer ITO nanowire structure, supposing the incident wave is the transverse electric (TE) wave, characteristics of high absorption can be found only in the case of epsilon-near-zero (ENZ). However, for the transverse magnetic (TM) wave, provided that the angle of incidence is greater than 10°, high absorption will be generated in the cases of ENZ and epsilon-near-pole. This also leads to the absorption bandwidth of the TM wave to be wider than that of the TE one. At some certain frequencies, the absorption rate for the TE wave is low, while for the TM wave, the absorption rate is very high, resulting in the polarization selection. For the presented double-layer structure of ITO material, the reasonable adjustment of the filling factors will produce obvious asymmetric absorption in forward and backward incidence for TE and TM waves, and the TE wave will always maintain a larger range of contrast

D

value higher than 0.9 than that of the TM one.
Discrete optical propagation in one-dimensional synthetic mesh lattice
Authors: Wen Zengrun , Lu Baole , Wang Kaile , Qi Xinyuan , Bai Jintao
Published: August 2020

Synthetic mesh lattice (SML) with temporally controlled potential is a versatile platform for realizing wave dynamics associated with physical areas of optics and quantum physics. Here, discrete optics in one-dimensional synthetic photonic lattice is investigated systematically, in which the light behavior is highly analogous to that in evanescently coupled one-dimensional discrete waveguides. Such a synthetic dimension is constructed with position-dependent periodic effective gauge fields based on the Aharonov–Bohm effect arising from the phase accumulation of the fiber loops. By tuning the phase accumulation and coupling coefficient of the coupler, the band translation and gap property can be modulated, which further results in the impulse and tailored Gaussian wave packet responses as well as Talbot recurrences. In addition, Bloch oscillations and Anderson localization can also be obtained when the phase accumulations are linearly changed and weakly modulated in a random manner, respectively. The periodic effective gauge fields configuration in our protocol enables SML to be a research platform for one-dimensional dynamically modulated elements or even non-Hermitian waveguides.
Near-infrared single-photon emitters based on colloidal CdSe/CdS/ZnS nanocrystals and Nd(III) 1,3-diketonate
Authors: Metlin Mikhail , Ambrozevich Sergey , Korshunov Vladislav , Fedyanin Vladimir , Tananaev Peter , Taydakov Ilya
Published: August 2020

A novel, to the best of our knowledge, approach to the design of the single-photon sources emitting in the spectral regions of 1060 and 1337 nm was developed. A unique hybrid structure based on colloidal CdSe/CdS/ZnS nanocrystals and neodymium(III) 1,3-diketonate was created. Direct energy transfer from the CdSe/CdS/ZnS single nanocrystal to the near-infrared (NIR) luminescent Nd(III) complex was observed and investigated by spectroscopic methods. The single-photon emission mode was confirmed for the novel hybrid source by Hanbury Brown and Twiss experiments.