bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling the Wolbachia incompatible insect technique: strategies for effective mosquito population elimination
Authors: Pagendam D. E. , Trewin B. J. , Snoad N. , Ritchie S. A. , Hoffmann A. A. , Staunton K. M. , Paton C. , Beebe N.
Published: November 2020

Background

TheWolbachiaincompatible insect technique (IIT) shows promise as a method for eliminating populations of invasive mosquitoes such asAedes aegypti(Linnaeus) (Diptera: Culicidae) and reducing the incidence of vector-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika. Successful implementation of this biological control strategy relies on high-fidelity separation of male from female insects in mass production systems for inundative release into landscapes. Processes for sex-separating mosquitoes are typically error-prone and laborious, and IIT programmes run the risk of releasingWolbachia-infected females and replacing wild mosquito populations.

Results

We introduce a simple Markov population process model for studying mosquito populations subjected to aWolbachia-IIT programme which exhibit an unstable equilibrium threshold. The model is used to study, in silico, scenarios that are likely to yield a successful elimination result. Our results suggest that elimination is best achieved by releasing males at rates that adapt to the ever-decreasing wild population, thus reducing the risk of releasingWolbachia-infected females while reducing costs.

Conclusions

While very high-fidelity sex separation is required to avoid establishment, release programmes tend to be robust to the release of a small number ofWolbachia-infected females. These findings will inform and enhance the next generation ofWolbachia-IIT population control strategies that are already showing great promise in field trials.
Prevalence of delirium, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder among COVID-19 patients: protocol for a living systematic review
Authors: Shi Jiyuan , Gao Ya , Zhao Liang , Li Yuanyuan , Yan Meili , Niu Ming Ming , Chen Yamin , Song Ziwei , Zhang Ruixing , Zhang Lili , Tian Jinhui
Published: November 2020

Background

Previous studies on the impact of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the mental health of the patients has been limited by the lack of relevant data. With the rapid and sustained growth of the publications on COVID-19 research, we will perform a living systematic review (LSR) to provide comprehensive and continuously updated data to explore the prevalence of delirium, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among COVID-19 patients.

Methods

We will perform a comprehensive search of the following databases: Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Chinese Biomedicine Literature to identify relevant studies. We will include peer-reviewed cross-sectional studies published in English and Chinese. Two reviewers will independently assess the methodological quality of included studies using the Joanna Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal tool and perform data extraction. In the absence of clinical heterogeneity, the prevalence estimates with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of delirium, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) will be calculated by using random-effects model to minimize the effect of between-study heterogeneity separately. The literature searches will be updated every 3 months. We will perform meta-analysis if any new eligible studies or data are obtained. We will resubmit an updated review when there were relevant changes in the results, i.e., when outcomes became statistically significant (or not statistically significant anymore) or when heterogeneity became substantial (or not substantial anymore).

Discussion

This LSR will provide an in-depth and up-to-date summary of whether the common neuropsychiatric conditions observed in patients hospitalized for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) are also prevalent in a different stage of COVID-19 patients.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42020196610
Response of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes to combined application of phosphorus and foliar zinc fertilizers in Central Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Meresa Hintsa , Assefa Dereje , Tsehaye Yemane
Published: November 2020

Background

Adequate phosphorus (P) and foliar zinc (Zn) in groundnut required for obtaining Zn-enriched grain and optimum yield. However, it was very low in the area. Due to that objective of the study was to investigate the response of groundnut genotypes to combined application of phosphorus and zinc on yield and nutritional contents. A field experiment was conducted at Sheka-Tekli in 2017/18 cropping season.

Methods

The treatments were consisted of three groundnut genotypes (ICGV00308, ICGV91114 and Sedi) as main plot and four combined PZn fertilizer levels (00), 10 kg P/ha + 0.50 g Zn/L, 20 kg P/ha + 1 g Zn/L and 30 kg P/ha + 1.5 g Zn/L as sub plot were assigned in split plot design with tree replications.

Result

The result indicated that yield and yield components respond significantly to the main and interaction effects. The highest significant seed yield (2529 kg/ha) and protein content (37.79%) were obtained in response to the application of P30Zn1.5 fertilizer on sedi variety in the loamy sand soil. The percentage of crude protein and fat content had significantly affected by interaction components. Most of the yield component traits showed strong positive correlation with seed yield. While the lowest seed yield was recorded from ICGV00308 without fertilizer. The highest fat content (43.95%) was gained from genotype ICGV00308 at P30Zn1.5 fertilizer. From the interaction of sedi with P30Zn1.5 fertilizer was recorded highest protein content. Based on economic analysis the highest MRR (380.58%) was obtained from ICGV00308 genotype at P10Zn0.5 fertilizer.

Conclusion

From the result of the study, application of PZn fertilizer increases seed yield of groundnut. Therefore, based on the MRR result ICGV00308 genotype at P10Zn0.5 fertilizer was optimum for groundnut production in the study area and similar agro-ecologies.
Prescription and dispensing guidelines in Lebanon: initiative of the Order of Pharmacists of Lebanon
Authors: Hajj Aline , Sacre Hala , Hallit Souheil , Zeenny Rony M. , Sili Georges , Salameh Pascale
Published: November 2020

Background

In Lebanon, difficulties in accessing medications are due to two main barriers, mainly: high cost and the lack of medication safety, related to poor-quality (irrational) prescription and use. The objective of this work is to suggest guidelines to implement a unified medical prescription in Lebanon. These guidelines are expected to promote medication safety and decrease pharmaceutical expenditures in the Lebanese context.

Methods

The Order of Pharmacists of Lebanon (OPL) developed a comprehensive set of guidelines for physicians and pharmacists, including a detailed workflow process to improve the use of the unified medical prescription. The guidelines were presented to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health (MOPH).

Results

The project covered prescription guidelines to physicians (handwritten and electronic-prescriptions), and medication dispensing and generic substitution guidelines to pharmacists. Prescription guidelines included all required information about both the prescribing physician and the patient with the maximum of details, comprehensibility, and caution regarding specific populations/co-morbidities/co-prescriptions. Dispensing guidelines included details for safe and appropriate treatment dispensing, pearls for medications’ counseling and generic substitution, as well as specific consideration for at-risk populations or those with concomitant medications and co-morbidities. Finally, a suggested workflow clarified the process for improving the unified medical prescription.

Conclusions

The implementation of the guidelines should now be formally evaluated, to assess if they achieve the aims to reduce prescribing and dispensing errors, to improve the quality of medicines' prescription and use, the patient care, and the interaction between all stakeholders
No signature of selection on the C-terminal region of glucose transporter 2 with the evolution of avian nectarivory
Authors: Myrka Alexander M. , Shah Tooba , Weir Jason T. , Welch Kenneth C.
Published: November 2020

Background

Flying birds, especially those that hover, need to meet high energetic demands. Birds that meet this demand through nectarivory face the added challenges of maintaining homeostasis in the face of spikes in blood sugar associated with nectar meals, as well as transporting that sugar to energetically demanding tissues. Nectarivory has evolved many times in birds and we hypothesized that the challenges of this dietary strategy would exert selective pressure on key aspects of metabolic physiology. Specifically, we hypothesized we would find convergent or parallel amino acid substitutions among different nectarivorous lineages in a protein important to sensing, regulating, and transporting glucose, glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2).

Methods

Genetic sequences for GLUT2 were obtained from ten pairs of nectarivorous and non-nectarivorous sister taxa. We performed PCR amplification of the intracellular C-terminal domain of GLUT2 and adjacent protein domains due to the role of this region in determination of transport rate, substrate specificity and glucosensing.

Results

Our findings have ruled out the C-terminal regulatory region of GLUT2 as a target for selection by sugar-rich diet among avian nectarivores, though selection among hummingbirds, the oldest avian nectarivores, cannot be discounted.

Conclusion

Our results indicate future studies should examine down-stream targets of GLUT2-mediated glucosensing and insulin secretion, such as insulin receptors and their targets, as potential sites of selection by nectarivory in birds.
First surgical experience with a COVID-19 positive patient in Costa Rica: case report, staff safety protocol and brief review of literature
Authors: Sanchez-Betancourt Alfredo , Sibaja-Alvarez Pablo , Gonzalez-Cole Milagros , Mendez-Barboza Ivannia , Ledezma-Cruz Crishtna , Vargas-Paez Priscilla
Published: November 2020

Background

The safe management of patients with COVID-19 has been a challenge during the current pandemic, leading to healthcare workers being disproportionately affected by the virus. In Costa Rica, 20% of all infections and 27% of all ICU cases during the initial weeks of the outbreak were healthcare workers. The existing recommendations and protocols on how to care for an infected patient that requires acute surgical management have been applied successfully in various scenarios. We look to describe the first case of a COVID-19 patient that required surgical management in Costa Rica and present a summary of the protection measures utilized in a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and methods

A review of literature utilizing Embase, Medline Complete and Google Scholar was performed. A surgical case report using the SCARE statement guidelines was drafted and a brief summary of the 54 items contained in the hospital’s COVID-19 surgical protocol is described.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 29 year old obese male who had acute appendicitis with perforation that contracted SARS-CoV-2 and became symptomatic at home on pod#3, who later required multiple surgeries to address an infected abdominal hematoma both while having an active COVID-19 infection and afterwards.

Conclusions

Safety measures for both staff and patients are of the utmost importance during the current coronavirus pandemic. Limitations in the availability of personal protection equipment as well a lack of knowledge and experience with handling surgical patients with this condition have led to various safety and attention protocols being drafted. The successful management of this patient is the first experience in Costa Rica on how to properly address staff safety during a surgical procedure. None of the workers involved in care of this patient were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2.
Intraindividual validation of 4D flow measurement against 2D flow measurements in complex flow patterns in routine clinical cardiovascular magnetic resonance of bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Kharabish Ahmed , Belker Kristina , Martinoff Stefan , Ewert Peter , Hennemuth Anja , Huellebrand Markus , Stern Heiko , Meierhofer Christian
Published: November 2020

Background

Comparing four-dimensional flow against two-dimensional flow measurements in patients with complex flow pattern is still lacking. This study aimed to compare four-dimensional against the two-dimensional flow measurement in patients with bicuspid aortic valve and to test potentials of four-dimensional operator-dependent sources of error.

Results

The two- and four-dimensional flow data sets of sixteen patients with bicuspid aortic valve and eighteen healthy subjects were studied. Flow analyses were performed by two observers blindly. Patients with bicuspid aortic valve mean differences between the two- and four-dimensional measurements in both observers were − 8 and − 4 ml, respectively. Four-dimensional measurements resulted in systematically higher flow values than the two-dimensional flow in bicuspid aortic valve patients. The upper and lower limits of agreement between the two- and four-dimensional measurements by both observers were + 12/− 28 ml and + 14/− 21 ml, respectively. In the healthy volunteers, mean differences between the two- and four-dimensional measurements in both observers were ± 0 and + 1 ml, respectively. The upper and lower limits of agreement between the two- and four-dimensional measurements by both observers were + 21/− 18 ml and + 12/− 13 ml, respectively. Inter-observer variability in four-dimensional flow measurement was 4% mean net forward flow in bicuspid aortic valve patients and 8% in healthy volunteers.

Conclusion

Inter-observer variability in four-dimensional flow assessment is 8% or less which is acceptable for clinical cardiac MRI routine. There is close agreement of two- and four-dimensional flow tools in normal and complex flow pattern. In complex flow pattern, however, four-dimensional flow measurement picks up 4–9% higher flow values. It seems, therefore, that four-dimensional flow is closer to real flow values than two-dimensional flow, which is however to be proven by further studies.
A biopsychosocial interpretation of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory – Nursing Home assessment: reconceptualising psychiatric symptom attributions
Authors: Smith Sarah J. , Griffiths Alys W. , Creese Byron , Sass Cara , Surr Claire A.
Published: November 2020

Background

The Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) is predicated on the assumption that psychiatric symptoms are manifestations of disease. Biopsychosocial theories suggest behavioural changes viewed as psychiatric may also arise as a result of external behavioural triggers. Knowing the causes of psychiatric symptoms is important since the treatment and management of symptoms relies on this understanding.

Aims

This study sought to understand the causes of psychiatric symptoms recorded in care home settings by investigating qualitatively described symptoms in Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Nursing Home (NPI-NH) interviews.

Method

The current study examined the NPI-NH interviews of 725 participants across 50 care homes. The qualitatively described symptoms from each of the 12 subscales of the NPI were extracted: 347 interviews included at least one qualitatively described symptom (n= 651 descriptions). A biopsychosocial algorithm developed following a process of independent researcher coding (n= 3) was applied to the symptom descriptions. This determined whether the description had predominantly psychiatric features, or features that were cognitive or attributable to other causes (i.e. issues with orientation and memory; expressions of need; poor care and communication; or understandable reactions)

Results

Our findings suggest that the majority (over 80%) of descriptions described symptoms with features that could be attributable to cognitive changes and external triggers (such as poor care and communication).

Conclusions

The finding suggest that in its current form the NPI-NH may over attribute the incidence of psychiatric symptoms in care homes by overlooking triggers for behavioural changes. Measures of psychiatric symptoms should determine the causes of behavioural changes in order to guide treatments more effectively.
Gender and mental health service use in bipolar disorder: national cohort study
Authors: Cunningham Ruth , Crowe Marie , Stanley James , Haitana Tracy , Pitama Suzanne , Porter Richard , Baxter Jo , Huria Tania , Mulder Roger , Clark Mau Te Rangimarie , Lacey Cameron
Published: November 2020

Background

Despite evidence of gender differences in bipolar disorder characteristics and comorbidity, there is little research on the differences in treatment and service use between men and women with bipolar disorder.

Aims

To use routine data to describe specialist mental health service contact for bipolar disorder, including in-patient, community and support service contacts; to compare clinical characteristics and mental health service use between men and women in contact with secondary services for bipolar disorder.

Method

Cross-sectional analysis of mental health patients with bipolar disorder in New Zealand, based on complete national routine health data.

Results

A total of 3639 individuals were in contact with specialist mental health services with a current diagnosis of bipolar disorder in 2015. Of these 58% were women and 46% were aged 45 and over. The 1-year prevalence rate of bipolar disorder leading to contact with specialist mental health services was 1.56 (95% CI 1.50–1.63) per 100 000 women and 1.20 (95% CI 1.14–1.26) per 100 000 men. Rates of bipolar disorder leading to service contact were 30% higher in women than men (rate ratio 1.30, 95% CI 1.22–1.39). The majority (68%) had a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder. Women were more likely to receive only out-patient treatment and have comorbid anxiety whereas more men had substance use disorder, were convicted for crimes when unwell, received compulsory treatment orders and received in-patient treatment.

Conclusions

Although the prevalence of bipolar disorder is equal between men and women in the population, women were more likely to have contact with specialist services for bipolar disorder but had a lower intensity of service interaction.
First Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Center in Africa: First 2 Years in Operation, Including COVID-19 Experiences
Authors: Ramdas Yastira , Benn Carol-Ann , van Heerden Michelle
Published: November 2020

PURPOSE

There is a shortage of radiation therapy service centers in low- to middle-income countries. TARGIT–intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) may offer a viable alternative to improve radiation treatment efficiency and alleviate hospital patient loads. The Breast Care Unit in Johannesburg became the first facility in Africa to offer TARGIT-IORT, and the purpose of this study was to present a retrospective review of patients receiving IORT at this center between November 2017 and May 2020.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patient selection criteria were based mainly on the latest American Society of Radiation Oncology guidelines. Selection criteria included early-stage breast carcinoma (luminal A) and luminal B with negative upfront sentinel lymph node biopsy that negated external-beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Patient characteristics, reasons for choosing IORT, histology, and use of oncoplastic surgery that resulted in complications were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred seven patients successfully received IORT/TARGIT-IORT. Mean age was 60.8 years (standard deviation, 9.3 years). A total of 73.8% of patients presented with luminal A, 15.0% with luminal B, and 5.6% with triple-negative cancer. One patient who presented with locally advanced breast cancer (T4N2) opted for IORT as a boost in addition to planned EBRT. Eighty-seven patients underwent wide local excision (WLE) with mastopexy, and 12 underwent WLE with parenchymal. Primary reasons for selecting IORT/TARGIT-IORT were distance from the hospital (43.9%), choice (40.2%), and age (10.3%).

CONCLUSION

This retrospective study of IORT/TARGIT-IORT performed in Africa confirms its viability, with low complication rates and no detrimental effects with breast conservation, resulting in positive acceptance and the potential to reduce Oncology Center patient loads. Limitations of the study include the fact that only short-term data on local recurrence were available. Health and socioeconomic value models must still be addressed in the African setting.
New Horizons: Novel Approaches to Enhance Healthspan Through Targeting Cellular Senescence and Related Aging Mechanisms
Authors: Tchkonia Tamar , Palmer Allyson K , Kirkland James L
Published: November 2020

The elderly population is increasing faster than other segments of the population throughout the world. Age is the leading predictor for most chronic diseases and disorders, multimorbidity, geriatric syndromes, and impaired ability to recover from accidents or illnesses. Enhancing the duration of health and independence, termed healthspan, would be more desirable than extending lifespan merely by prolonging the period of morbidity toward the end of life. The geroscience hypothesis posits that healthspan can be extended by targeting fundamental aging mechanisms, rather than attempting to address each age-related disease one at a time, only so the afflicted individual survives disabled and dies shortly afterward of another age-related disease. These fundamental aging mechanisms include, among others, chronic inflammation, fibrosis, stem cell/ progenitor dysfunction, DNA damage, epigenetic changes, metabolic shifts, destructive metabolite generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, misfolded or aggregated protein accumulation, and cellular senescence. These processes appear to be tightly interlinked, as targeting any one appears to affect many of the rest, underlying our Unitary Theory of Fundamental Aging Mechanisms. Interventions targeting many fundamental aging processes are being developed, including dietary manipulations, metformin, mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) inhibitors, and senolytics, which are in early human trials. These interventions could lead to greater healthspan benefits than treating age-related diseases one at a time. To illustrate these points, we focus on cellular senescence and therapies in development to target senescent cells. Combining interventions targeting aging mechanisms with disease-specific drugs could result in more than additive benefits for currently difficult-to-treat or intractable diseases. More research attention needs to be devoted to targeting fundamental aging processes.
Overaccumulation of Fat Caused Rapid Reproductive Senescence but not Loss of Ovarian Reserve in ob/ob Mice
Authors: Mollah Mohammad Lalmoddin , Yang Hee-Seon , Jeon SoRa , Kim KilSoo , Cheon Yong-Pil
Published: November 2020

Ovarian reserve and fertility are reduced by aging and a poor energy balance. To date, the relationships of high energy accumulation and aging with the ovarian reserve have not been elucidated. Here, the effects of obesity on the aging ovarian reserve were evaluated in a leptin-deficient (ob/ob) mouse model. Abnormal estrous cyclicity appeared as early as 6 weeks and worsened with aging. The blood level patterns of 17β-estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), and progesterone (P4) with aging were similar between lean and ob/ob mice. The blood level of E2 but not P4 or T was similar at 24 weeks. Many more atretic follicles but fewer corpora lutea were observed in ob/ob mice than in lean mice within all age groups. Anti-Müllerian hormone (Amh) mRNA levels were similar between genotypes. Dazl, Stra8, and ZP3 mRNAs were highly expressed in ob/ob mice after 12 weeks. Sohlh1 and Ybx2 mRNAs were highly expressed at 24 weeks in ob/ob compared with lean mice. In addition, SOHLH1-positive primordial follicle counts were significantly increased in ob/ob mice at 24 weeks. The proportions of AMH-positive secondary and small antral follicles were similar between genotypes. Together, these results show that the ovarian reserve lasts longer in ob/ob mice than in lean mice, suggesting that the loss of normal physiological or physical status causes decreased fertility at a young age in ob/ob mice and that an increase in adipocytes without leptin, as in ob/ob mice, can improve the ovarian reserve. Such knowledge can be applied to understanding reproductive dysfunction.
Nonvirilized Genitalia in 3 Female Newborns With the Salt-Wasting Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Phenotype
Authors: Yauch Lauren , Mayhew Allison , Gomez-Lobo Veronica , Shimy Kim , Sarafoglou Kyriakie
Published: November 2020

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, a form of primary adrenal insufficiency characterized by impaired cortisol secretion and elevated androgen production, is the leading cause of atypical genitalia in the female newborn. Females with classic CAH, either salt-wasting or simple-virilizing form, usually present at birth with atypical genitalia ranging from clitoromegaly to male-appearing genitalia, due to in utero to elevated androgens (androstenedione and testosterone). Females with mild nonclassic CAH usually present with typical genitalia. Proving the importance of always keeping an open mind for exceptions to the rule, we report on 3 female newborns who presented with the nonvirilized genitalia, salt-wasting CAH phenotype and genotype most consistent with simple-virilizing CAH. It is only through a positive newborn screen identifying the females with CAH that they were diagnosed before developing adrenal and/or salt-wasting crisis.
Pasireotide: A Novel Treatment for Tumor-Induced Hypoglycemia Due to Insulinoma and Non-Islet Cell Tumor Hypoglycemia
Authors: Siddiqui Mahwash , Vora Amy , Ali Sadia , Abramowitz Jessica , Mirfakhraee Sasan
Published: November 2020

Tumor-induced hypoglycemia is a serious disorder most commonly caused by insulinoma or non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia (NICTH). The hypoglycemia can be severe and refractory to conventional therapy, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The objective of this work is to describe a series of challenging cases in which refractory, tumor-induced hypoglycemia was shown to respond to the use of pasireotide, a second-generation somatostatin receptor ligand. We describe the clinical and biochemical features of 3 patients with tumor-induced hypoglycemia due to an occult insulinoma, malignant insulinoma, and non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia. In these 3 individuals, the hypoglycemia remained refractory to guideline-recommended medical therapy, such as diazoxide, nonpasireotide somatostatin analogues, and glucocorticoids. Pasireotide was substituted to attenuate the refractory hypoglycemia for each patient. The addition of pasireotide led to prompt improvement in the frequency and severity of hypoglycemic episodes for each tumor-induced hypoglycemia patient. We demonstrate the successful treatment of 3 individuals with refractory, tumor-induced hypoglycemia with pasireotide. We offer the first reported use of pasireotide for the successful treatment of nonmalignant insulinoma and non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia.
Reactive oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (re-)myelinate the regenerating zebrafish spinal cord
Authors: Tsata Vasiliki , Kroehne Volker , Wehner Daniel , Rost Fabian , Lange Christian , Hoppe Cornelia , Kurth Thomas , Reinhardt Susanne , Petzold Andreas , Dahl Andreas , Loeffler Markus , Reimer Michell M. , Brand Michael
Published: November 2020

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in loss of neurons, oligodendrocytes and myelin sheaths, all of which are not efficiently restored. The scarcity of oligodendrocytes in the lesion site impairs re-myelination of spared fibres, which leaves axons denuded, impedes signal transduction and contributes to permanent functional deficits. In contrast to mammals, zebrafish can functionally regenerate the spinal cord. Yet, little is known about oligodendroglial lineage biology and re-myelination capacity after SCI in a regeneration-permissive context. Here, we report that, in adult zebrafish, SCI results in axonal, oligodendrocyte and myelin sheath loss. We find that OPCs, the oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, survive the injury, enter a reactive state, proliferate and differentiate into oligodendrocytes. Concomitantly, the oligodendrocyte population is re-established to pre-injury levels within 2 weeks. Transcriptional profiling revealed that reactive OPCs upregulate the expression of several myelination-related genes. Interestingly, global reduction of axonal tracts and partial re-myelination, relative to pre-injury levels, persist at later stages of regeneration, yet are sufficient for functional recovery. Taken together, these findings imply that, in the zebrafish spinal cord, OPCs replace lost oligodendrocytes and, thus, re-establish myelination during regeneration.
Meta-analysis Comparing Fluorescence Imaging with Radioisotope and Blue Dye-Guided Sentinel Node Identification for Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Kedrzycki Martha S. , Leiloglou Maria , Ashrafian Hutan , Jiwa Natasha , Thiruchelvam Paul T. R. , Elson Daniel S. , Leff Daniel R.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Conventional methods for axillary sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) are fraught with complications such as allergic reactions, skin tattooing, radiation, and limitations on infrastructure. A novel technique has been developed for lymphatic mapping utilizing fluorescence imaging. This meta-analysis aims to compare the gold standard blue dye and radioisotope (BD-RI) technique with fluorescence-guided SLNB using indocyanine green (ICG).

Methods

This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019129224). The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched using the Medical Subject Heading (MESH) terms ‘Surgery’ AND ‘Lymph node’ AND ‘Near infrared fluorescence’ AND ‘Indocyanine green’. Studies containing raw data on the sentinel node identification rate in breast cancer surgery were included. A heterogeneity test (using Cochran’s Q) determined the use of fixed- or random-effects models for pooled odds ratios (OR).

Results

Overall, 1748 studies were screened, of which 10 met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. ICG was equivalent to radioisotope (RI) at sentinel node identification (OR 2.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.35–19.08, p < 0.05) but superior to blue dye (BD) (OR 9.07, 95% CI 6.73–12.23, p < 0.05). Furthermore, ICG was superior to the gold standard BD-RI technique (OR 4.22, 95% CI 2.17–8.20, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Fluorescence imaging for axillary sentinel node identification with ICG is equivalent to the single technique using RI, and superior to the dual technique (RI-BD) and single technique with BD. Hospitals using RI and/or BD could consider changing their practice to ICG given the comparable efficacy and improved safety profile, as well as the lesser burden on hospital infrastructure.
The role of interventional radiology in the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Uysal Aycan , Unal Emre , Karaosmanoglu Ali Devrim , Arellano Ronald , Ciftci Turkmen Turan , Akinci Devrim , Akhan Okan
Published: November 2020

Interventional radiology (IR) provides minimally invasive therapeutic and palliative options for the treatment of pancreatic cancer depending on the stage of the disease. IR plays a critical, and also a very effective role, in both pre- and post-operative care of the patients with early stage resectable disease and also in palliative treatment of the patients with locally advanced or metastatic disease. In this article, we aimed to present the capability and the limitations of IR procedures including: local treatment options of primary and metastatic pancreatic cancer, palliation of biliary and intestinal obstructions, minimally invasive treatment of post-operative complications, and pain management.
COVID-19: preparing for second surge and getting back on track for radiology
Authors: Cheng Lionel Tim-Ee , Heilbrun Marta E , Sahani Dushyant , Tan Bien Soo , Klein Jeffrey S.
Published: November 2020

In this opinion piece derived from a webinar organized by the Radiological Society of North America and conducted in the spring of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaders from three large North American and Asian academic radiology programs review the strategies employed at their respective institutions to address the impact of the pandemic on their departments. In the first segment, the author describes the approach taken in the radiology department at an 1800-bed Asian hospital system which focuses on the creation of capacity to accommodate over 5000 COVID-19 patients in early 2020, the sustaining of services during the surge, and the development of adaptive mechanisms to address future surges and pandemics. In the second segment, a large southwestern medical system addresses the creation of a long-term strategy to provide imaging services safely for staff and patients while simultaneously utilizing technology to maintain interprofessional connections. The final segment describes how a large multifacility health-care enterprise in the Pacific Northwest of the United States is developing strategies to successfully reemerge from the forced reduction in imaging services experienced during the COVID-19 surge in early 2020.
The Study of Ancient Greek Texts in Early Ottoman Constantinople
Authors: KUKJALKO Brigita
Published: November 2020

H εργασία αποτελεί επισκόπηση των έργων σχετικά με τα αρχαία ελληνικά κείμενα στην Κωνσταντινούπολη κατά το δεύτερο μισό του 15ου αιώνα. Μαρτυρίες από τα σωζόμενα χειρόγραφα που περιέχουν αρχαία ελληνικά κείμενα, τα συγγράμματα των Ελλήνων διανοουμένων της εποχής όπως ο Αμιρούτζης, ο Γεώργιος Τραπεζούντιος, ο Ματθαίος Καμαριώτης, καθώς και πληροφορίες που παρέχονται από τον σύγχρονό τους Κριτόβουλο, αποδεικνύουν ότι οι λόγιοι της εποχής και οι μαθητές τους ενδιαφέρονταν για ευρύ φάσμα θεμάτων, από την αρχαία ελληνική γλώσσα και τη λογοτεχνία μέχρι τις επιστήμες και τη φιλοσοφία. Η μελέτη των αρχαίων ελληνικών κειμένων δεν περιοριζόταν στην Αυλή των Οθωμανών Σουλτάνων, αλλά και στους εκπαιδευτικούς κύκλους των Ελλήνων διανοουμένων.
Project SEARCH (Scanning EARs for Child Health): validating an ear biometric tool for patient identification in Zambia
Authors: Etter Lauren , Simukanga Alinani , Qin Wenda , Pieciak Rachel , Mwananyanda Lawrence , Betke Margrit , Phiri Jackson , Carbo Caroline , Hamapa Arnold , Gill Chris
Published: November 2020

Patient identification in low- to middle-income countries is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our day. Given the ubiquity of mobile phones, their use for health-care coupled with a biometric identification method, present a unique opportunity to address this challenge. Our research proposes an Android-based solution of an ear biometric tool for reliable identification. Unlike many popular biometric approaches (e.g., fingerprints, irises, facial recognition), ears are noninvasive and easily accessible on individuals across a lifespan. Our ear biometric tool uses a combination of hardware and software to identify a person using an image of their ear. The hardware supports an image capturing process that reduces undesired variability. The software uses a pattern recognition algorithm to transform an image of the ear into a unique identifier. We created three cross-sectional datasets of ear images, each increasing in complexity, with the final dataset representing our target use-case population of Zambian infants (N=224, aged 6days-6months). Using these datasets, we conducted a series of validation experiments, which informed iterative improvements to the system. Results of the improved system, which yielded high recognition rates across the three datasets, demonstrate the feasibility of an Android ear biometric tool as a solution to the persisting patient identification challenge.
Making the Most of Your Regret: Workers’ Relocation Decisions in On-Demand Platforms
Authors: Jiang Zhong-Zhong , Kong Guangwen , Zhang Yinghao
Published: November 2020

Problem definition : We have witnessed a rapid rise of on-demand platforms, such as Uber, in the past few years. Although these platforms allow workers to choose their own working hours, they have limited leverage in maintaining availability of workers within a region. As such, platforms often implement various policies, including offering financial incentives and/or communicating customer demand to workers in order to direct more workers to regions with shortage in supply. This research examines how behavioral biases such as regret aversion may influence workers’ relocation decisions and ultimately the system performance. Academic/practical relevance : Studies on on-demand platforms often assume that workers are rational agents who make optimal decisions. Our research investigates workers’ relocation decisions from a behavioral perspective. A deeper understanding of workers’ behavioral biases and their causes will help on-demand platforms design appropriate policies to increase their own profit, worker surplus, and the overall efficiency of matching supply with demand. Methodology : We use a combination of behavioral modeling and controlled laboratory experiments. We develop analytical models that incorporate regret aversion to produce theoretical predictions, which are then tested and verified via a series of controlled laboratory experiments. Results : We find that regret aversion plays an important role in workers’ relocation decisions. Regret-averse workers are more willing to relocate to the supply-shortage zone than rational workers. This increased relocation behavior, however, is not sufficient to translate to a better system performance. Platform interventions, such as demand information sharing and dynamic wage bonus, can help further improve the system. We find that workers’ regret-aversion behavior may lead to an increased profit for the platform, a higher surplus for the workers, and an improved demand-supply matching efficiency, thus benefiting the entire on-demand system. Managerial implications : Our research emphasizes the importance and necessity of incorporating workers’ behavioral biases such as regret aversion into the policy design of on-demand platforms. Policies without considering the behavioral aspect of workers’ decision may lead to lost profit for the platform and reduced welfare for workers and customers, which may ultimately hurt the on-demand business.
Integrated microwave photonic true-time delay with interferometric delay enhancement based on Brillouin scattering and microring resonators
Authors: McKay Luke , Merklein Moritz , Liu Yang , Cramer Alex , Maksymow Jordan , Chilton Andrew , Yan Kunlun , Choi Duk-Yong , Madden Stephen J. , DeSalvo Richard , Eggleton Benjamin J.
Published: November 2020

True-time delays are important building blocks in modern radio frequency systems that can be implemented using integrated microwave photonics, enabling higher carrier frequencies, improved bandwidths, and a reduction in size, weight, and power. Stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) offers optically-induced continuously tunable delays and is thus ideal for applications that require programmable reconfiguration but previous approaches have been limited by large SBS gain requirements. Here, we overcome this limitation by using radio-frequency interferometry to enhance the Brillouin-induced delay applied to the optical sidebands that carry RF signals, while controlling the phase of the optical carrier with integrated silicon nitride microring resonators. We report a delay tunability over 600 ps exploiting an enhancement factor of 30, over a bandwidth of 1 GHz using less than 1 dB of Brillouin gain utilizing a photonic chip architecture based on Brillouin scattering and microring resonators.
Adaptive modal decomposition based overlapping-peaks extraction for thickness measurement in chromatic confocal microscopy
Authors: Li Jiafu , Zhao Yanlong , Du Hua , Zhu Xiaoping , Wang Kai , Zhao Mo
Published: November 2020

Accurate overlapping-peaks extraction plays a critical role in chromatic confocal thickness measurement of ultra-thin transparent film. However, the current algorithms usually appear as a perceptible extraction error resulting from the disturbing influence among peaks in the process of fitting the spectral axial response signal (sARS) of the two measuring surfaces. In this paper, we propose an adaptive modal decomposition method to extract multi peaks for the ultra-thin materials. With this method, the sARS can be firstly decomposed into several sub-modes, which can be used to obtain the peak wavelength of each measuring surface by the existing single peak extraction algorithms, such as the centroid method and Gauss fitting method. Monte Carlo simulations and experimental tests demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has significant improvements over the existing nonlinear fitting algorithms in terms of peak extraction accuracy and precision.
Proteomic profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from patients with tuberculosis and diabetes copathogenesis - A pilot study
Authors: Kundu Jyoti , Bakshi Shikha , Joshi Himanshu , Bhadada Sanjay K. , Verma Indu , Sharma Sadhna
Published: November 2020

Background

Diabetes is an important risk factor for developing tuberculosis. This association leads to exacerbation of tuberculosis symptoms and delayed treatment of both the diseases. Molecular mechanism and biomarkers/drug targets related to copathogenesis of tuberculosis and diabetes are still poorly understood. In this study, proteomics based 2D-MALDI/MS approach was employed to identify host signature proteins which are altered during copathogenesis of tuberculosis and diabetes.

Methods

Comparative proteome of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy controls, tuberculosis and diabetes patients in comparison to comorbid diabetes and tuberculosis patients was analyzed. Gel based proteomics approach followed by in gel trypsin digestion and peptide identification by mass spectrometry was used for signature protein identification.

Results

Total of 18 protein spots with differential expression in tuberculosis and diabetes copathogenesis (TBDM) patients in comparison to other groups were identified. These proteins belonged to four functional categories i.e. structural, cell cycle/growth regulation, signaling and intermediary metabolism. These include Vimentin, tubulin beta chain protein, Actin related protein 2/3 complex subunit 2, coffilin 1 (Structural), PDZ LIM domain protein, Rho-GDP dissociation inhibitor, Ras related protein Rab (signaling), superoxide dismutase, dCTPpyrophosphatase 1, Transcription initiation factor TFIID subunit 12, three isoforms of Peptidylprolylcis-trans isomerase A, SH3 domain containing protein (metabolism), three isoforms of Protein S100A9 and S100A8 (cell cycle progression/growth regulation).

Conclusion

Proteins identified to be differentially expressed in TBDM patient can act as potent biomarkers and as predictors for copathogenesis of tuberculosis and diabetes.
Predictions from masked motion with and without obstacles
Authors: Goldstein Ariel , Rivlin Ido , Goldstein Alon , Pertzov Yoni , Hassin Ran R.
Published: November 2020

Predicting the future is essential for organisms likeHomo sapiens, who live in a dynamic and ever-changing world. Previous research has established that conscious stimuli can lead to non-conscious predictions. Here we examine whether masked stimuli can also induce such predictions. We use masked movement–with and without obstacles–to examine predictions from masked stimuli. In six experiments a moving object was masked using continuous flash suppression (CFS). A few hundred milliseconds after the object had disappeared, a conscious probe appeared in a location that was either consistent with the masked stimulus or not. In Experiments 1–3 the movement was linear, and reaction times (RTs) indicated predictions that were based on direction and speed of movement. In Experiment 4, the masked moving object collided with an obstacle and then disappeared. Predictions in this case should reflect deflection, and indeed reaction times revealed predictions on the deflection route. In Experiments 5 and 6 we introduce an innovative way of using eye-tracking during continuous flash suppression (CFS) and report physiological evidence–in the forms of eye-movements–for masked stimuli induced predictions. We thus conclude that humans can use dynamic masked stimuli to generate active predictions about the future, and use these predictions to guide behavior. We also discuss the possible interpretations of these findings in light of the current scientific discussion regarding the relation between masked presentation, subliminal perception and awareness measurement methods.
Comprehensive analysis of differential expression profiles via transcriptome sequencing in SH-SY5Y cells infected with CV-A16
Authors: Hu Yajie , Yang Zhen , Wang Shenglan , Sun Danxiong , Zhong Mingmei , Wen Mudong , Song Jie , Zhang Yunhui
Published: November 2020

Coxsackievirus A16 (CV-A16) is one of the viruses that is most frequently associated with hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD). Previous studies have shown that CV-A16 infections are mostly self-limiting, but in recent years, it has been gradually found that CV-A16 infections can also induce neurological complications and eventually cause death in children with HFMD. Moreover, no curative drugs or preventative vaccines have been developed for CV-A16 infection. Therefore, it is particularly important to investigate the mechanism of CV-A16 infection-induced neuropathy. In the current study, transcriptome sequencing technology was used to identify changes in the transcriptome of SH-SY5Y cells infected with CV-A16, which might hide the mechanism of CV-A16-induced neuropathology. The transcriptome profiling showed that 82,406,974, 108,652,260 and 97,753,565 clean reads were obtained in the Control, CV-A16-12 h and CV-A16-24 h groups, respectively. And it was further detected that a total of 136 and 161 differentially expressed genes in CV-A16-12 h and CV-A16-24 h groups, respectively, when compared with Control group. Then, to explore the mechanism of CV-A16 infection, we focused on the common differentially expressed genes at different time points of CV-A16 infection and found that there were 34 differentially expressed genes based on which clustering analysis and functional category enrichment analysis were performed. The results indicated that changes in oxidation levels were particularly evident in the GO term analysis, while only the “Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor pathway” was enriched in the KEGG pathway analysis, which might be closely related to the neurotoxicity caused by CV-A16 infection. Meanwhile, the ID2 closely related to nervous system has been demonstrated to be increased during CV-A16 infection. Additionally, the data on differentially expressed non-protein-coding genes of different types within the transcriptome sequencing results were analyzed, and it was speculated that these dysregulated non-protein-coding genes played a pivotal role in CV-A16 infection. Ultimately, qRT-PCR was utilized to validate the transcriptome sequencing findings, and the results of qRT-PCR were in agreement with the transcriptome sequencing data. In conclusion, transcriptome profiling was carried out to analyze response of SH-SY5Y cells to CV-A16 infection. And our findings provide important information to elucidate the possible molecular mechanisms which were linked to the neuropathogenesis of CV-A16 infection.