bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radial Kohn–Sham problem via integral-equation approach
Authors: Užulis Jānis , Gulans Andris
Published: July 2022

We present a numerical tool for solving the non-relativistic Kohn–Sham problem for spherically-symmetric atoms. It treats the Schrödinger equation as an integral equation relying heavily on convolutions. The solver supports different types of exchange-correlation functionals including screened and long-range corrected hybrids. We implement a new method for treating range separation based on the complementary error function kernel. The present tool is applied in non-relativistic total energy calculations of atoms. A comparison with ultra-precise reference data[Cinal, JOMC 58, 1571 (2020)] shows a 14-digit agreement for Hartree–Fock results. We provide further benchmark data obtained with 5 different exchange-correlation functionals.
Scaling limit of DLA on a long line segment
Authors: Mu Yingxin , Procaccia Eviatar , Zhang Yuan
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we prove that the bulk of 2-dimensional DLA starting from a long line segment on the

x
x

-axis has a scaling limit to the stationary DLA. The main phenomenological difficulty is the multi-scale, non-monotone interaction of the DLA arms. We overcome this via a coupling scheme between the two processes and an intermediate DLA process with absorbing mesoscopic boundary segments. Our result allows to import results from the more amenable infinite stationary DLA process to the more physical finite aggregations.
Evaluation of Face Shields, Goggles, and Safety Glasses as a Virus Transmission Control Measure to Protect the Wearer Against Cough Droplets
Authors: Hall Samantha , Johnson Paul , Bailey Claire , Gould Zoe , White Robert , Crook Brian
Published: July 2022

Face shields (also referred to as visors), goggles and safety glasses have been worn during the COVID-19 pandemic as one measure to control transmission of the virus. However, their effectiveness in controlling facial exposure to cough droplets is not well established and standard tests for evaluating eye protection for this application are limited. A method was developed to evaluate face shields, goggles, and safety glasses as a control measure to protect the wearer against cough droplets. The method uses a semi-quantitative assessment of facial droplet deposition. A cough simulator was developed to generate droplets comparable to those from a human cough. The droplets consisted of a UV fluorescent marker (fluorescein) in water. Fourteen face shields, four pairs of goggles and one pair of safety glasses were evaluated by mounting them on two different sizes of breathing manikin head and challenging them with the simulated cough. The manikin head was positioned in seven orientations relative to the cough simulator to represent various potential occupational exposure scenarios, for example, a nurse standing over a patient. Droplet deposition in the eyes, nose and mouth regions were visualised following three ‘coughs’. Face shields, goggles, and safety glasses reduced, but did not eliminate exposure to the wearer from droplets such as those produced by a human cough. The level of protection differed based on the design of the personal protective equipment and the relative orientation of the wearer to the cough. For example, face shields, and goggles offered the greatest protection when a cough challenge was face on or from above and the least protection when a cough challenge was from below. Face shields were also evaluated as source control to protect others from the wearer. Results suggested that if a coughing person wears a face shield, it can provide some protection from cough droplets to those standing directly in front of the wearer.
What would Wallace do?
Authors: Rees Martin
Published: July 2022

At the start of the 20th century, Alfred Russel Wallace was pessimistic about the possibility of life outside Earth. Martin Rees wonders what he would think now.
Detailing India's AstroSat
Authors: Singh Ritesh
Published: July 2022

Ritesh Singh celebrates the work of AstroSat, the only multi-band space observatory.
RAS Specialist Discussion Meeting report
Authors: Carter Jenny , Walach Maria-Theresia , Mooney Michaela
Published: July 2022

Jenny Carter, Maria-Theresia Walach and Michaela Mooney report on the RAS Specialist Discussion Meeting ‘Global Monitoring of Geospace’
Understanding the multidimensional cognitive deficits of logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Ramanan Siddharth , Irish Muireann , Patterson Karalyn , Rowe James B , Gorno-Tempini Maria Luisa , Lambon Ralph Matthew A
Published: July 2022

The logopenic variant of primary progressive aphasia is characterized by early deficits in language production and phonological short-term memory, attributed to left-lateralized temporoparietal, inferior parietal and posterior temporal neurodegeneration. Despite patients primarily complaining of language difficulties, emerging evidence points to performance deficits in non-linguistic domains. Temporoparietal cortex, and functional brain networks anchored to this region, are implicated as putative neural substrates of non-linguistic cognitive deficits in logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia, suggesting that degeneration of a shared set of brain regions may result in co-occurring linguistic and non-linguistic dysfunction early in the disease course. Here, we provide a Review aimed at broadening the understanding of logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia beyond the lens of an exclusive language disorder. By considering behavioural and neuroimaging research on non-linguistic dysfunction in logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia, we propose that a significant portion of multidimensional cognitive features can be explained by degeneration of temporal/inferior parietal cortices and connected regions. Drawing on insights from normative cognitive neuroscience, we propose that these regions underpin a combination of domain-general and domain-selective cognitive processes, whose disruption results in multifaceted cognitive deficits including aphasia. This account explains the common emergence of linguistic and non-linguistic cognitive difficulties in logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia, and predicts phenotypic diversification associated with progression of pathology in posterior neocortex.
Pharmacogenetics-guided dalcetrapib therapy after an acute coronary syndrome: the dal-GenE trial
Authors: Tardif Jean Claude , Pfeffer Marc A , Kouz Simon , Koenig Wolfgang , Maggioni Aldo P , McMurray John J V , Mooser Vincent , Waters David D , Grégoire Jean C , L’Allier Philippe L , Wouter Jukema J , White Harvey D. , Heinonen Therese , Black Donald M , Laghrissi-Thode Fouzia , Levesque Sylvie , Guertin Marie Claude , Dubé Marie Pierre ,   for the dal-GenE Investigators
Published: July 2022

Aims

In a retrospective analysis of dal-Outcomes, the effect of dalcetrapib on cardiovascular events was influenced by an adenylate cyclase type 9 (ADCY9) gene polymorphism. The dal-GenE study was conducted to test this pharmacogenetic hypothesis.

Methods and results

dal-GenE was a double-blind trial in patients with an acute coronary syndrome within 1–3 months and the AA genotype at variant rs1967309 in the ADCY9 gene. A total of 6147 patients were randomly assigned to receive dalcetrapib 600 mg or placebo daily. The primary endpoint was the time from randomization to first occurrence of cardiovascular death, resuscitated cardiac arrest, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke. After a median follow-up of 39.9 months, the primary endpoint occurred in 292 (9.5%) of 3071 patients in the dalcetrapib group and 327 (10.6%) of 3076 patients in the placebo group [hazard ratio 0.88; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75–1.03; P = 0.12]. The hazard ratios for the components of the primary endpoint were 0.79 (95% CI 0.65–0.96) for myocardial infarction, 0.92 (95% CI 0.64–1.33) for stroke, 1.21 (95% CI 0.91–1.60) for death from cardiovascular causes, and 2.33 (95% CI 0.60–9.02) for resuscitated cardiac arrest. In a pre-specified on-treatment sensitivity analysis, the primary endpoint event rate was 7.8% (236/3015) in the dalcetrapib group and 9.3% (282/3031) in the placebo group (hazard ratio 0.83; 95% CI 0.70–0.98).

Conclusion

Dalcetrapib did not significantly reduce the risk of occurrence of the primary endpoint of ischaemic cardiovascular events at end of study. A new trial would be needed to test the pharmacogenetic hypothesis that dalcetrapib improves the prognosis of patients with the AA genotype.

Clinical Trial Registration

Trial registration dal-GenE ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02525939
Cardioprotective effects of influenza vaccination among patients with established cardiovascular disease or at high cardiovascular risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jaiswal Vikash , Ang Song Peng , Yaqoob Sadia , Ishak Angela , Chia Jia Ee , Nasir Yusra Minahil , Anjum Zauraiz , Alraies M Chadi , Jaiswal Akash , Biswas Monodeep
Published: July 2022

Background

The clinical impact of the influenza vaccination on cardiovascular outcomes in people with established cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still debated.

Aim

The aim of this meta-analysis was to estimate the effect of influenza vaccination on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes among patients with established CVD.

Methods

We systematically searched all electronic databases from inception until 15 April 2022. Primary clinical outcomes were all-cause mortality, and major adverse clinical events (MACEs). Secondary endpoints were heart failure, myocardial infarction, cardiovascular mortality, and stroke.

Results

Eighteen articles (five randomized trials and thirteen observational studies), with a total of 22 532 165 patients were included in the analysis. There were 217 072 participants included in the high cardiovascular risk or established CVD population (vaccinated n = 111 073 and unvaccinated n = 105 999). The mean age of the patients was 68 years old, without any difference between groups (69 vs. 71) years. At a mean follow-up of 1.5 years, the vaccinated group was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR), 0.71(95% CI, 0.63–0.80), P < 0.001], MACE [HR, 0.83(95% CI:0.72–0.96), P = 0.01], CV mortality [HR, 0.78(95% CI:0.68–0.90), P < 0.001], and MI [HR, 0.82 (95% CI:0.74–0.92), P < 0.001] compared to the unvaccinated group. While the incidence of stroke [HR, 1.03 (95% CI, 0.92–1.06), P = 0.61] and heart failure [HR, 0.74 (95% CI, 0.51–1.08), P = 0.12] did not differ between the two groups.

Conclusion

Influenza vaccination reduced MACEs, all-cause mortality, CV mortality, and MI. These highlighted the importance of influenza vaccination in established CVD or high cardiovascular risk.
Objective Physical Activity Accumulation and Brain Volume in Older Adults: An MRI and Whole-Brain Volume Study
Authors: Melo Neves Lucas , Ritti-Dias Raphael , Juday Valeria , Marquesini Raquel , Mendes Gerage Aline , Cândido Laurentino Gilberto , Hoffmann Nunes Renato , Stubbs Brendon , Ugrinowitsch Carlos
Published: July 2022

A decrease in brain volume (ie, brain atrophy) is a marker of cognitive health in older adults. Insufficient weekly accumulation of moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA) has been associated with lower brain volume. As this association has been established for a small number of brain areas and structures and atrophy rates seem to be nonuniform between them, more comprehensive analyses are warranted. We compared the volume of 71 brain areas and structures in 45 older adults who met and did not meet objectively measured MVPA recommendations. In addition, we used multiple regression models to determine whether cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2PEAK), MVPA, and health-related risk factors could affect the atrophy of brain areas and structures. An accelerometer (GT9-X ActiGraph) was worn for 7 days. Participants were then classified into 2 groups: <150 minutes MVPA (<150′MVPA; n = 20) and ≥150 minutes MVPA (≥150′MVPA; n = 25) per week. Older adults who accumulated ≥150′MVPA per week had significantly higher absolute and relative (% of intracranial volume) volumes of 39 and 9 brain areas and structures, respectively, than those who accumulated <150′MVPA per week. Higher VO2PEAK seems to be a key predictor of the atrophy of brain areas and structures. In conclusion, meeting weekly physical activity recommendations seems to have a widespread effect on preserving the volume of more than 30 brain areas and structures in older adults. VO2PEAK seems to be the most frequent and important predictor of brain volume preservation.
Nuclear Weapons in the Tweede Kamer: Analysis of Nuclear Motions in the Dutch House of Representatives in Times of Contestation
Authors: Onderco Michal , Joosen Rik
Published: July 2022

US nuclear weapons are presently hosted in five European countries. In recent years, parliaments in four out of the five countries held debates about these weapons. For most of them, this was the first (or the only) debate in many years. By contrast, in the Netherlands, the Tweede Kamer, the House of Representatives, held forty-four votes related to nuclear weapons in the last two parliamentary periods alone. Although parliament's powers are restricted, these votes can oblige government to pursue a certain policy and ultimately put soft constraints on government's freedom of action. Yet, the extent of the contestation of nuclear weapons in European parliaments is almost unknown. Using the Dutch case and spatial modeling methods, we offer three lessons: first, that security policy does not stand above the parliamentary politics; second, that cross-bench voting happens but the activity originates in partisan silos; and third, that there is a strong partisan element to the debates about nuclear weapons in Europe.
Summarizing Study Characteristics and Diagnostic Performance of Commercially Available Tests for Respiratory Syncytial Virus: A Scoping Literature Review in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Bernstein David I , Mejias Asuncion , Rath Barbara , Woods Christopher W , Deeter Jamie Phillips
Published: July 2022

Background

Nonpharmaceutical interventions to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 also decreased the spread of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza. Viral diagnostic testing in patients with respiratory tract infections (RTI) is a necessary tool for patient management; therefore, sensitive and specific tests are required. This scoping literature review aimed to summarize the study characteristics of commercially available sample-to-answer RSV tests.

Content

PubMed and Embase were queried for studies reporting on the diagnostic performance of tests for RSV in patients with RTI (published January 2005–January 2021). Information on study design, patient and setting characteristics, and published diagnostic performance of RSV tests were extracted from 77 studies that met predefined inclusion criteria. A literature gap was identified for studies of RSV tests conducted in adult-only populations (5.3% of total subrecords) and in outpatient (7.5%) or household (0.8%) settings. Overall, RSV tests with analytical time >30 min had higher published sensitivity (62.5%–100%) vs RSV tests with analytical time ≤30 min (25.7%–100%); this sensitivity range could be partially attributed to the different modalities (antigen vs molecular) used. Molecular-based rapid RSV tests had higher published sensitivity (66.7%–100%) and specificity (94.3%–100%) than antigen-based RSV tests (sensitivity: 25.7%–100%; specificity:80.3%–100%).

This scoping review reveals a paucity of literature on studies of RSV tests in specific populations and settings, highlighting the need for further assessments. Considering the implications of these results in the current pandemic landscape, the authors preliminarily suggest adopting molecular-based RSV tests for first-line use in these settings.
Facilitators and barriers of medication adherence amongst the geriatrics: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohamed Dharvees T , Sandy Crasta D , Stephen Steby Mol , Thomas Anmaria , Pereira Prathibha , Ramesh Madhan , Sri Harsha Chalasani , Syed Jehath
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To assess the rate of medication adherence, facilitators and barriers to medication adherence among elderly.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the medication adherence level and the patient reported facilitators and barriers using medication adherence rating scale and a prevalidated questionnaire, respectively amongst the geriatric patients who were hospitalised in a south India tertiary care hospital. Data thus collected were categorically analysed. Predictors were assessed using odds ratio at 95% confidence interval.

Key Findings

A total of 401 patients were enrolled, majority [220 (54.86%)] were adherent to the medications. The barriers identified included forgetfulness, carelessness, lack of awareness about the disease and medication, illiteracy, lack of regular follow up and visit, social stigma on disease, polypharmacy and adverse effects. The facilitators included good access to the health care system, patient counselling, regular follow-up, and refill. The age group of 71–80 years [OR 2.02 (95% CI, 1.31–3.13)], illiteracy [OR 2.34 (95% CI 1.38–3.98)], single as marital status [OR 3.64 (95% CI, 1.13–11.67)], comorbidities (≥5) [OR 3.91 (95% CI, 1.78–8.60)], discharge medications (>11) [OR 3.11 (95% CI, 1.55–6.26)], lack of awareness about the disease [OR 1.99 (95% CI, 1.30–3.032)] were found to be significant predisposing factors.

Conclusions

This study reveals as several predictive factors were identified for medication nonadherence which can aid in developing strategies to improve medication adherence.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Characteristics Associated with Treatment Success from Basivertebral Nerve Ablation: An Aggregated Cohort Study of Multicenter Prospective Clinical Trials Data
Authors: McCormick Zachary L , Conger Aaron , Smuck Matthew , Lotz Jeffrey C , Hirsch Joshua A , Hickman Colton , Harper Katrina , Burnham Taylor R
Published: July 2022

Objective

Investigate associations between endplate and motion segment magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics and treatment outcomes following basivertebral nerve radiofrequency ablation (BVN RFA) in patients with clinically suspected vertebral endplate pain (VEP).

Design

Aggregated cohort study of 296 participants treated with BVN RFA from three prospective clinical trials.

Methods

Baseline MRI characteristics were analyzed using stepwise logistic regression to identify factors associated with treatment success. Predictive models used three definitions of treatment success: (1) ≥50% low back pain (LBP) visual analog scale (VAS), (2) ≥15-point Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and (3) ≥50% VAS or ≥15-point ODI improvements at 3-months post-BVN RFA.

Results

The presence of lumbar facet joint fluid (odds ratio [OR] 0.586) reduced the odds of BVN RFA treatment success in individuals with clinically suspected VEP. In patients with a less advanced degenerative disc disease (DDD) profile, a > 50% area of the endplate with bone marrow intensity changes (BMIC) was predictive of treatment success (OR 4.689). Both regressions areas under the curve (AUCs) were under 70%, indicating low predictive value. All other vertebral endplate, intervertebral disc, nerve roots facet joint, spinal segmental alignment, neuroforamina, lateral recesses, and central canal MRI characteristics were not associated with BVN RFA success.

Conclusions

In patients with vertebrogenic low back pain with Modic changes, the presence of degenerative findings of the anterior and posterior column was not associated with a clinically important impact on BVN RFA treatment success. None of the models demonstrated strong predictive value, indicating that the use of objective imaging biomarkers (Type 1 and/or 2 Modic changes) and a correlating presentation of pain remain the most useful patient selection factors for BVN RFA.
Exchange-Traded Funds and Real Investment
Authors: Antoniou Constantinos , Weikai Li Frank , Liu Xuewen , Subrahmanyam Avanidhar , Sun Chengzhu
Published: July 2022

We investigate the link between exchange-traded funds and real investment. Cross-sectionally, higher ETF ownership is associated with an increased sensitivity of real investment to Tobin’s q and a heightened ability of stock returns to forecast future earnings. Inclusion of stocks in industry ETFs enhances investment-$q$ sensitivity and implies greater incorporation of earnings information into prices prior to public releases. Greater nonmarket ETF ownership leads to increased (reduced) reliance of real investment on own (peers’) stock prices. Overall, the evidence is consistent with ETFs positively affecting real investment efficiency via greater flows of information.

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online
The Nature of Social Work: An Ecocentered Analysis of Key Social Work Statements
Authors: Levin Lia , Nevo Mali
Published: July 2022

This article addresses references to people’s natural environments in some of the central declarative statements that shape social work worldwide. Four types of documents were analyzed, including statements associated with the Global Definition of Social Work, the Global Standards for Social Work Education and Training, the Global Social Work Statement of Ethical Principles, and the Grand Challenges for Social Work initiative. The analysis was driven by a critical-interpretive approach, seeking explicit and possibly implied references to nature and the environment across documents, with special attention to themes concerning the relationship between micro and macro perspectives, disciplinarity and inter- or transdisciplinarity, and relations between humankind and nature. In general, direct references to social work’s possible intersections with issues related to nature and the natural environment were scarce in the materials examined. That having been said, our analysis did find that ecocentered interpretations enable locating prospective “bridges” for the incorporation of deeper ecological perceptions of social work into statements. Such findings constitute a call to action, and the possible implications of continuing to broadly disregard ecological aspects of social work in core materials published by influential professional institutions are discussed.
Coping and Resilience: PTSD Screening and Brief Intervention for Underrepresented Students at a Public University
Authors: Acuña M Alejandra , Franke Todd M , Lipscomb Allen E
Published: July 2022

The undetected and untreated PTSD symptoms (difficulty paying attention, nightmares and difficulty sleeping, irritability or aggression, flashbacks, diminished interest in activities, self-destructive behavior, and feeling isolated) of college students may interfere with their relationships, well-being, learning, and academic success. To examine the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of providing a short-term trauma-specific evidence-based group intervention, Coping & Resilience (C&R), an adaptation of Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) was implemented at a large urban public university. Fifty college students (54 percent male, 90 percent students of color), with a mean PTSD symptom score of 34 at pretest (considered in the moderate range of symptom severity) participated in C&R groups. As expected, student PTSD symptoms improved after group participation. A Quade test showed a significant decrease in the scores from pretest to follow-up for PTSD and two subscales (intrusion and avoidance). Large public universities serving underrepresented students are uniquely positioned to become trauma- and resilience-informed systems and to provide trauma support services to promote student well-being.
Butterfly–parasitoid–hostplant interactions in Western Palaearctic Hesperiidae: a DNA barcoding reference library
Authors: Toro-Delgado Eric , Hernández-Roldán Juan , Dincă Vlad , Vicente Juan Carlos , Shaw Mark R , Quicke Donald Lj , Vodă Raluca , Albrecht Martin , Fernández-Triana José , Vidiella Blai , Valverde Sergi , Dapporto Leonardo , Hebert Paul D N , Talavera Gerard , Vila Roger
Published: July 2022

The study of ecological interactions between plants, phytophagous insects and their natural enemies is an essential but challenging component for understanding ecosystem dynamics. Molecular methods such as DNA barcoding can help elucidate these interactions. In this study, we employed DNA barcoding to establish hostplant and parasitoid interactions with hesperiid butterflies, using a complete reference library for Hesperiidae of continental Europe and north-western Africa (53 species, 100% of those recorded) based on 2934 sequences from 38 countries. A total of 233 hostplant and parasitoid interactions are presented, some recovered by DNA barcoding larval remains or parasitoid cocoons. Combining DNA barcode results with other lines of evidence allowed 94% species-level identification for Hesperiidae, but success was lower for parasitoids, in part due to unresolved taxonomy. Potential cases of cryptic diversity, both in Hesperiidae and Microgastrinae, are discussed. We briefly analyse the resulting interaction networks. Future DNA barcoding initiatives in this region should focus attention on north-western Africa and on parasitoids, because in these cases barcode reference libraries and taxonomy are less well developed.
Genome-Wide Association Mapping in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Reveals Common Loci and Putative Candidate Genes for Resistance to Diaporthe gulyae and D. helianthi Causing Phomopsis Stem Canker
Authors: Guidini Renan , Jahani Mojtaba , Huang Kaichi , Rieseberg Loren , Mathew Febina M.
Published: July 2022

Diaporthe gulyae and D. helianthi cause Phomopsis stem canker of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in the United States. Because Phomopsis stem canker did not gain importance until the disease epidemic in 2010, limited studies were conducted to understand the genetic basis of sunflower resistance to D. gulyae and D. helianthi. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the United States Department of Agriculture cultivated accessions for resistance to D. gulyae and D. helianthi as well as to utilize genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and putative candidate genes underlying those loci common to both organisms. For each fungus, 213 accessions were screened in a complete randomized design in the greenhouse and the experiment was repeated once. Six plants per accession were inoculated with a single isolate of D. gulyae or D. helianthi at four to six true leaves using the mycelium-contact inoculation method. At 15 days (D. gulyae) and 30 days (D. helianthi) postinoculation, accessions were evaluated for disease severity and compared with the susceptible confection inbred PI 552934. GWAS identified 28 QTLs common to the two fungi, and 24 genes overlapped close to these QTLs. Additionally, it was observed that the resistance QTLs derived mainly from landraces rather than from wild species. Seventeen putative candidate genes associated with resistance to D. gulyae or D. helianthi were identified that may be related to plant–pathogen interactions. These findings advanced our understanding of the genetic basis of resistance to D. gulyae and D. helianthi and will help develop resources for genomics-assisted breeding.
A Biosecurity Tool: High-Intensity, Pulsed Polychromatic Light and UV-C Treatments of Oil Palm Pollen and Spores of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. elaeidis
Authors: Adusei-Fosu K. , Dickinson M. , Unnikrishnan J. , Scott G. , Osei-Wusu M. , Somchit C.
Published: July 2022

The movement of oil palm ( Elaeis guineensis) pollen as a germplasm material between oil palm-growing countries for the purposes of plant-breeding programs is common in West Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. Reports of pollen contamination with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. elaeidis ( Foe), the causal agent of Fusarium wilt disease for oil palm, heightened the need for an operational decontamination technique for oil palm pollen prior to export. In this study, high-intensity, pulsed polychromatic light (HIPPL) and conventional UV (UV-C) were used as decontamination tools to treat Foe spores and oil palm pollen. We combined qualitative studies for HIPPL- and UV-C-treated Foe spores and quantitative studies for treated pollen. The study showed that despite UV-C and HIPPL successfully controlling Foe, oil palm pollen had reduced viability or was inviable upon exposure to various doses of UV-C and HIPPL sources. The effects of UV-C at doses of 2.5, 5, and 10 kJ/m2 and HIPPL at 10, 20, and 40 pulses were determined for oil palm pollen and Foe germination. UV-C doses of 10 kJ/m2 and 40 pulses of HIPPL showed significant reduction in germination of oil palm pollen but had no adverse effect on Foe viability. At 60 kJ/m2 of UV-C and 240 pulses of HIPPL, Foe was inviable, and pollen could not germinate.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY 4.0 International license .
Factors Associated with the Occurrence and Healing of Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus: A Rare Clinical Entity
Authors: Isik Arda , Wysocki Arkadiusz Peter , Memiş Ufuk , Sezgin Efe , Yezhikova Assel , Islambekov Yersultan
Published: July 2022

Objective

Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of skin that is thought to be related to implanted loose hair. Although PSD is most frequently seen in the sacrococcygeal region, it can also occur at the axilla, perineum, suprapubic regions, hands, and umbilicus. The aim of this project was to find factors influencing the development and treatment of umbilical PSD.

Methods

In this retrospective study, the authors evaluated 82 patients (19 women, 63 men) with a history of umbilical PSD between 2012 and 2020 to determine predisposing factors and treatment modalities.

Results

There was a 20% concordance with intergluteal PSD. Smoking was the only modifying factor for recurrence. The three different treatment methods studied (conservative treatment, surgical treatment, silver nitrate) did not differ in recurrence rate (P = .57).

Conclusions

Because of its rare nature, umbilical PSD can be misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed. Key aspects of treatment include smoking cessation and a conservative approach.
Changes in Marital Status Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy: A US Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: King Wendy C , Hinerman Amanda S , White Gretchen E
Published: July 2022

Among a US cohort followed 5 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, cumulative incidence of marriage and separation/divorce were 18% among unmarried (N=614) and 13% among married (N=827) participants, respectively. Preoperative predictors of marriage included younger age, college degree, lower BMI and cohabitating or being separated (versus single).

Objectives:

To describe changes in marital status following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG).

Background:

Spousal encouragement and finding a life partner are self-reported motivators for undergoing bariatric surgery.

Methods:

This study included 1441 US adults enrolled in a 6-center prospective cohort study who underwent RYGB or SG (2006–2009) and self-reported marital status preoperatively and annually postoperatively for ≤5 years. Time to change in marital status was analyzed with Kaplan–Meier estimates of cumulative incidence and Cox proportional-hazard models.

Results:

Preoperative, 57% of participants (79% female, median age 47 years, median body mass index [BMI] 47 kg/m2) were married, 5% cohabitating, 4% separated, 15% divorced, 2% widowed, and 17% always single. The 5-year cumulative incidence of marriage among unmarried participants (N = 614) was 18%. Cohabitating (hazard ratios [HR] = 5.25) or being separated (HR = 3.03) versus always single, younger age (HR = 1.69/10 years), having a college degree versus ≤high school (HR = 2.36), lower BMI (HR = 1.54/10kg/m2), and fewer depressive symptoms (HR = 1.47/10 Beck Depression Inventory points) preoperative independently predicted (P < 0.05) higher chance of marriage. The 5-year cumulative incidence of separation/divorce among married participants (N = 827) was 13%. Female sex (HR = 2.08), younger age (HR = 1.84/10 years), household income <$25,000 versus ≥$100,000 (HR = 2.48), smoking (HR = 1.76), and sexual desire ≥once/week versus never (HR = 2.12) preoperative independently predicted (P ≤ 0.05) separation/divorce.

Conclusions:

Among a cohort of US adults, the majority did not change marital status within 5 years following RYGB or SG. Cumulative incidence of marriage and separation/divorce was 18% among unmarried and 13% among married participants, respectively. Several preoperative predictors of marriage and separation/divorce were identified.
Treatment Patterns and Health Care Resource Utilization of Iatrogenic Spinal Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in the United States
Authors: Charalambous Lefko T. , Rajkumar Shashank , Liu Beiyu , Adil Syed M. , Wong Megan , Hodges Sarah , Amrhein Timothy J. , Leithe Linda Gray , Parente Beth , Lee Hui-Jie , Lad Shivanand P.
Published: July 2022

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

We aimed to characterize the treatment patterns and the associated costs in patients with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak after spine procedures in the United States.

Background:

CSF leak is a common complication after spinal procedures. However, there is a little data regarding the national patterns of treatment choice and the associated health care resource utilization.

Methods:

We utilized the IBM MarketScan Research databases to retrospectively analyze adult US patients diagnosed with CSF leak within 30 days of spine procedures between 2001 and 2018. Treatment prevalence, treatment failure, and health care resource utilization data within 30 days of the CSF leak were collected. A subanalysis was performed on patients who received epidural blood patches (EBP) to better understand health care utilization attributable to this treatment modality.

Results:

Twenty one thousand four hundred fourteen patients were identified. The most common causes of CSF leak were diagnostic spinal tap (59.2%) and laminectomy/discectomy (18.7%). With regard to treatment prevalence, 40.4% of the patients (n=8651) had conservative medical management, 46.6% (n=9987) received epidural blood patch repair, 9.6% required surgical repair (n=2066), and 3.3% (n=710) had lumbar drain/puncture. Nine hundred sixty-seven (9.7%), 150 (21.1%), and 280 (13.5%) patients failed initial EBP, lumbar drain, and surgery, respectively, and the overall failure rate was 10.9% (n=1397). The median 30-day total cost across all groups was $5,101. Patients who received lumbar drain ($22,341) and surgical repair ($30,199) had higher 30-day median total costs than EBP ($8,140) or conservative management ($17,012). The median 30-day total cost for patients whose EBP failed ($8,179) was substantially greater than those with a successful EBP repair ($3,439).

Conclusions:

National treatment patterns and costs for CSF leaks were described. When used in the correct patient cohort, EBP has the lower failure rates and costs than comparable alternatives. EBP may be considered more often in situations where conservative management or lumbar drains are currently being used.
Resting Energy Expenditure of Patients on Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ong Chin Siang , Brown Patricia , Shou Benjamin L. , Wilcox Christopher , Cho Sung-Min , Mendez-Tellez Pedro Alejandro , Kim Bo Soo , Whitman Glenn J. R. ,   on behalf of the HERALD Investigators
Published: July 2022

OBJECTIVES:

The objectives of this study were to 1) in patients without pulmonary function, determine resting energy expenditure (REE) in venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) patients by paralysis status and 2) determine the threshold tidal volume (TV) associated with meaningful gas exchange as determined by measurable end-tidal carbon dioxide elimination (etV̇co
2).

DESIGN:

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING:

A tertiary high ECMO volume academic institution.

PATIENTS/SUBJECTS:

Ten adult ARDS patients on venovenous ECMO.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

The modified Weir equation, Fick principle, Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, ECMO flow, hemoglobin, and pre and post oxygenator blood gases were used to determine ECMO carbon dioxide production (V̇co
2), ECMO oxygen consumption, and REE. REE values were matched to patients’ paralysis status based on medication flowsheets and compared using a paired t test. Linear regression was performed to determine the threshold TV normalized to ideal body weight (IBW) associated with measurable ventilator etV̇co
2, above which meaningful ventilation occurs. When lungs were not functioning, patients had significantly lower mean REE when paralyzed (23.4 ± 2.8 kcal/kg/d) than when not paralyzed (29.2 ± 5.8 kcal/kg/d) (p = 0.02). Furthermore, mean REE was not similar between patients and varied as much as 1.7 times between patients when paralyzed and as much as 1.4 times when not paralyzed. Linear regression showed that ventilator V̇co
2 was measurable and increased linearly when TV was greater than or equal to 0.7 mL/kg.

CONCLUSIONS:

REE is patient-specific and varies significantly with and without patient paralysis. When TV exceeds 0.7 mL/kg IBW, ventilator V̇co
2 increases measurably and must be considered in determining total REE.
Venetoclax in combination with nucleoside analogs in acute myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Ball Brian J. , Koller Paul B. , Pullarkat Vinod
Published: July 2022

Purpose of review

Venetoclax in combination with nucleoside analogs such as hypomethylating agents (HMA) and low-dose cytarabine (LDAC) has led to unprecedented response and survival outcomes in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This has spurred the development of regimens combining venetoclax with other nucleoside analogs with distinct mechanisms of action. Here, we review older and newer nucleoside analogs, the rationale for their combination with venetoclax, and clinical evidence for the combination when available.

Recent findings

Venetoclax with HMA prolonged survival in a phase 3 study. Additionally, biologic correlates of response and resistance to venetoclax with HMA have been identified. The addition of venetoclax to standard intensive regimens containing higher doses of cytarabine and purine nucleoside analogs are safe and induce very high rates of remission and measurable residual disease negativity (MRD) negativity in newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory AML. Investigational nucleoside analogs aim to improve upon the safety, bioavailability, or efficacy of approved venetoclax combinations and are currently being evaluated in clinical studies.

The development of venetoclax with HMA has transformed care for elderly adults with AML and opened the door for novel combinations of venetoclax with other nucleoside analogs. Further clinical studies are needed to see if these novel combinations further improve outcomes in AML particularly for patients with high-risk disease.
Total ankle replacement with INBONE-II prosthesis: A short-to- medium-term follow-up study in China
Authors: Wu Yong , Yang Hanyuan , Guo Xiangbin , Du Hui , Gong Xiaofeng
Published: July 2022

Background:

Total ankle replacement (TAR) is a viable option for the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis. In China, the INBONE-II implant is the only total ankle prosthesis approved since 2016. The purpose of this study is to report a large sample of findings for the TAR with INBONE-II prosthesis.

Methods:

A total of 64 patients with end-stage ankle arthritis, who underwent primary TAR using INBONE-II by the same surgeon from 2016 to 2019, at a single institution were included in this retrospective, single-center study. Clinical data, radiographic findings, survival rate, and complications were recorded and assessed pre-operatively and at the most recent follow-up.

Results:

A total of 64 patients were available for follow-up at least 2 years after surgery; the mean follow-up duration for clinical outcomes was 37.9 months (24–59 months), and for radiographic findings was 22.8 months (12–59 months). There were significant improvements (P < 0.01) in the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot scale, the visual analog scale for pain, and the Short Form-36. There were statistically significant differences between pre-operative and post-operative comparisons of the talar tilt angle (TT) and the tibial lateral surface angle (TLS) in the radiographic findings (TT from 4.7 ± 4.3° to 1.3 ± 1.3°, TLS from 80.4 ± 7.7° to 87.4 ± 2.3°, P < 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in improvement of the tibial anterior surface angle (P = 0.14). Ten complications (all low grade) were recorded according to the Glazebrook classification system. The survivorship of the prosthesis was 100% (64/64).

Conclusion:

Patients who underwent TAR with INBONE-II prosthesis demonstrated significant improvements in all measures of pain and function as well as in radiographic findings. High survival and a low incidence of complications were observed in this study.
Clinical performance indicators for monitoring the management of cutaneous melanoma: a population-based perspective
Authors: Buja Alessandra , Rugge Massimo , De Luca Giuseppe , Zorzi Manuel , Cozzolino Claudia , Vecchiato Antonella , Del Fiore Paolo , Tropea Saveria , Bortolami Alberto , Benini Patrizia , Rossi Carlo Riccardo , Mocellin Simone
Published: July 2022

The prognosis of cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) is based on disease progression. The highly heterogeneous clinical-pathological characteristics of CMM necessitate standardized diagnostic and therapeutic interventions tailored to cancer’s stage. This study utilizes clinical performance indicators to assess the quality of CMM care in Veneto (Northeast Italy). This population-based study focuses on all incidences of CMMs registered by the Veneto Cancer Registry in 2015 (1279 patients) and 2017 (1368 patients). An interdisciplinary panel of experts formulated a set of quality-monitoring indicators for diagnostic, therapeutic, and end-of-life clinical interventions for CMM. The quality of clinical care for patients was assessed by comparing the reference thresholds established by experts to the actual values obtained in clinical practice. The prevalence of stage I-CMM decreased significantly from 2015 to 2017 (from 71.8 to 62.4%; P < 0.001), and almost all the pathology reports mentioned the number of nodes dissected during a lymphadenectomy. More than 90% of advanced CMMs were promptly tested for molecular BRAF status, but the proportion of patients given targeted therapies fell short of the desired threshold (61.1%). The proportion of stage I–IIA CMM patients who inappropriately underwent computerized tomography/MRI/PET dropped from 17.4 to 3.3% (P < 0.001). Less than 2% of patients received medical or surgical anticancer therapies in the month preceding their death. In the investigated regional context, CMM care exhibited both strengths and weaknesses. The evaluated clinical indicators shed essential insight on the clinical procedures requiring corrective action. It is crucial to monitor clinical care indicators to improve care for cancer patients and promote the sustainability of the healthcare system.
Cyberbullying Among Adolescents with Chronic Illnesses in Thailand: Prevalence and Relationship with Health-Risk Behaviors
Authors: Sitthi Natthapong , In-iw Supinya , Theppiban Supparat , Manaboriboon Boonying
Published: July 2022

Background:

The use of social media may enhance the quality of life in adolescents living with chronic illnesses but may increase the risk of cyberbullying.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of cyberbullying among adolescents with chronic illnesses and relationship with health-risk behaviors.

Methods:

This is an online survey of randomly recruited adolescents aged 11 to 18 years with chronic illness managed at Siriraj Hospital, Thailand, during 2019 to 2020. Participants were asked to respond anonymously to validated online questionnaires to evaluate health-risk behaviors, experience with cyberbullying, and depression-screening questions.

Results:

Three hundred forty-one participants with a mean age of 15.02 ± 2.17 years (interquartile range 12.8, 17.2) responded. Reported risk behaviors included sexual activity in 42 participants (12.3%) with almost half (47.6%) having practiced unsafe sex. Alcohol drinking and polysubstance use were also found in 8.5% and 1.2%, respectively. 38 (11.1%) felt depressed within the previous 2-week period. 56 (16.4%) had been a cyberbully victim. Among the victims, 25 (44.6%) were also cyberbullies themselves. Chronically ill adolescents were more likely to be a victim of cyberbullying if they knew someone who had also been a victim (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.25 [95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.80–15.29], p < 0.001) or had a positive depression screening (aOR 6.182 [95% CI = 2.41–15.85], p < 0.001). Underlying diseases, age, sex, risky behaviors, and time spent online were not associated with being cyberbullied.

Conclusion:

Thai adolescents with chronic illness were similar to their healthy peers regarding health-risk behaviors and the likelihood of being a victim of cyberbullying. Screening for risky behaviors, evidence of depression, and online activity during routine medical visits was an opportunity to prevent cyberbullying.
Ambient air pollution and prostate cancer risk in a population-based Canadian case-control study
Authors: Youogo Leslie Michele-Ange Kouam , Parent Marie-Elise , Hystad Perry , Villeneuve Paul J.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Ambient air pollution is a human carcinogen and a possible risk factor for prostate cancer.

Methods:

We investigated associations between ambient concentrations particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and incident prostate cancer in a Canadian case-control study. Between 1994 and 1997, cases were identified from provincial cancer registries, and a population-based series of controls was recruited. Among men 50 years of age or older, risk factor and residential history data (1975 to 1994) were collected from 1,420 prostate cancer cases and 1,424 controls. Three methods were used to estimate the residential mean exposure to PM2.5 and NO2 during this period: (1) satellite-derived observations; (2) satellite-derived observations scaled with historical fixed-site measurements; and (3) a national land-use regression (LUR) model. Odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in relation to interquartile range (IQR) increases in PM2.5 and NO2 were estimated using logistic regression, adjusting for personal and contextual factors.

Results:

We found positive associations between exposure to PM2.5 and NO2 over the previous 20 years and prostate cancer. An IQR increase in PM2.5 (3.56 µg/m3 for satellite and 4.48 µg/m3 for scaled satellite observations) yielded ORs of 1.28 (95% CI = 1.07, 1.52) and 1.20 (95% CI = 1.03, 1.40), respectively. For NO2, IQR increases (1.45 ppb for satellite, 15.18 ppb for scaled satellite-derived information, and 15.39 ppb for the national LUR) were associated with ORs of 1.09 (95% CI = 0.95, 1.24), 1.21 (95% CI = 1.02, 1.43), and 1.19 (95% CI = 1.03, 1.38), respectively.

Conclusions:

Our findings support the hypothesis that ambient air pollution increases the risk of prostate cancer.