bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of three modalities of plasmapheresis on coagulation: Centrifugal, single‐membrane filtration, and double‐filtration plasmapheresis
Authors: Marlu Raphaël , Naciri Bennani Hamza , Seyve Landry , Noble Johan , Chevallier Eloi , Motte Lionel , Imerzoukene Farida , Bugnazet Mathilde , Christophe Maryvonne , Malvezzi Paolo , Jouve Thomas , Rostaing Lionel
Published: January 2021

Background

Plasmapheresis can deplete pathogenic antibodies and allow ABO‐ and/or HLA‐incompatible transplantation.

Aim

To determine the impacts of three modalities of plasmapheresis (centrifugal plasmapheresis [cTPE], single‐filtration plasmapheresis [mTPE], double‐filtration plasmapheresis [DFPP]) on hemostasis parameters and thrombin generation.

Materials/Methods

Prospective, comparative study on 21 patients that received three modalities of plasmapheresis (7 patients/group). Hemostasis (prothrombin time [PT], activated partial thromboplastin time [aPTT], procoagulant factors and natural anticoagulants) were measured before and after the first plasmapheresis session. Thrombin generation was also assessed in platelet‐poor plasma using an STA‐Genesia (Stago) analyzer and Thromboscreen reagents (Stago) in 4‐5 patients from each group.

Results

Both cTPE and mTPE resulted in high decreases in proteins, whatever their molecular weights. Median post/pre ratios were 0.27 to 0.55 for cTPE for most proteins (except FVIII [0.64] and VWF [0.57]). Median post/pre‐ratios of mTPE were 0.28 to 0.56 for all proteins. DFPP decreased high‐molecular‐weight proteins (fibrinogen, FV, FVIII, FXI, VWF) and proteins strongly bound to large molecules (protein SandTFPI). Median post/pre ratios with cTPE and mTPE were similar to DFPP for fibrinogen and FXIII. Regarding thrombin generation, cTPE and mTPE did not significantly modify endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) and DFPP induced a slight decrease in ETP (median post/pre ratio at 0.73) in the absence of thrombomodulin. ETP inhibition by thrombomodulin was decreased for all procedures.

Conclusions

DFPP depleted high molecular‐weight proteins in contrast to cTPE and mTPE, which significantly decreased all proteins. Regarding thrombin generation, depletion of procoagulant factors was counterbalanced by a decrease in some natural anticoagulants whatever plasmapheresis method used; with all methods, fibrinogen and FXIII were highly depleted.
Investigation of the effect of different chelation solutions on penetration of resin‐based and bioceramic sealers with a novel method
Authors: Alim Uysal Betul Aycan , Kotan Gozde , Guneser Mehmet Burak , Dincer Asiye Nur , Senturk Hilal , Rafiqi A. Mateen
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different chelation solutions on the penetration of resin‐based and bioceramic root canal sealers into dentinal tubules using a device that assembles conventional microplate detection with automated digital microscopy. Eighty‐four single‐rooted teeth were prepared with 30.07 nickel‐titanium instruments and divided into four groups of 21 according to the final irrigation solutions used: saline (control), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), maleic acid (MA), and etidronic acid (HEBP). The samples were obturated with AH Plus, MTA Fillapex, or EndoSequence BC Sealer using the single‐cone technique. The roots were then sectioned horizontally at 2, 6, and 10 mm and examined using a Cytation 5 reader and Gen5 software. Data were compared using two‐way analysis of variance followed by univariate analyses and Tukey's multiple comparison test (p < .05). The mean penetration depth in the apical thirds was higher in the MA group than in the other groups (p = .013). The mean depth in the middle and coronal thirds was almost equal in the EDTA and HEBP groups. The mean depth was significantly higher in the coronal thirds of the root canals than in any other section in all final irrigation solution groups (p < .001). EndoSequence BC Sealer displayed higher penetration depth than AH Plus and MTA Fillapex, although the differences between the examined sealers were not statistically significant. The chelation solutions increased root canal sealer penetration into the dentinal tubule.
Phosphonium‐based deep eutectic solvent coupled with vortex‐assisted liquid–liquid microextraction for the determination of benzoylurea insecticides in olive oil
Authors: Meng Zilin , Li Xin , Qiao Kexin , Zeng Haozhe , Cui Xiaoyan , Liu Zikai , Ju Ziwei , Lu Runhua , Gao Haixiang , Zhou Wenfeng
Published: January 2021

In this study, a novel method using a phosphonium‐based deep eutectic solvent coupled with vortex‐assisted liquid–liquid microextraction was investigated for the enrichment and separation of five benzoylurea insecticides in olive oil. The experimental factors affecting the extraction efficiency, including the extractant type, deep eutectic solvent volume, extraction time, and extraction mode, were optimized. Under optimal conditions, good linearity was observed for all target analytes, with correlation coefficients (r) ranging from 0.9971 to 0.9998; the limits of detection were in the range of 1.5 to 7.5 μg/L, and the recoveries of analytes using the proposed method ranged between 66.9 and 111.0%. The simple, rapid, and effective method was successfully applied for detecting target analytes in olive oil sample.
Research4Life: Landscape and situation analysis: Review
Authors: Hill Tom
Published: January 2021

Key points

The report was undertaken by Research4Life to assess their strategic position using a variation on the PESTEL framework; it contains insights valuable to researchers, publishers, and funders working in developing countries.

Growth in research funding and the number of researchers who need access to scholarly literature and research data indicates a continuing need for Research4Life.

Open access (OA) and associated developments could undermine Research4Life's value proposition, and similarly, Artificial Intelligence (AI)‐based search engines and scholarly social media platforms could render Research4Life's existing interface uncompetitive.

The Covid‐19 pandemic introduces some uncertainty into the overall picture, with the probability of significant budget pressures for universities, research funders, and publishers.

Following this, work has commenced on ways a transition can be made to OA in an equitable manner, avoiding creation of new barriers to access in lower‐ and middle‐income countries.
Recurrent angioedema: Experience at a tertiary care urban medical center
Authors: Kedarisetty Suraj , Tint Derrick , Michael Alexander , Soliman Ahmed M. S.
Published: January 2021

Objective

To determine the demographics, presentation, management, and outcomes of patients with recurrent angioedema. To compare the findings to patients with ACE inhibitor related angioedema.

Methods

Retrospective case series with chart review of patients who presented to a tertiary‐care hospital between January 2010 and December 2017 with two or more episodes of angioedema. Excluded were patients with anaphylactic reaction, medication induced angioedema, or angioedema secondary to an infectious etiology. A group of 88 patients who presented during the same time period with ACE inhibitor related angioedema was used as a control. Statistical analysis was conducted using a two‐tailed Fisher exact test and a multivariate logistical regression model to determine significant associations.

Results

Ninety‐one patients were identified; 61 met the selection criteria and had 217 total episodes of angioedema episodes presenting to the emergency department. Fifty percent were Caucasian or Hispanic. The average number of episodes was 3.5 (range: 2‐23). The lips and tongue were the most commonly affected sites (37% and 39%). The larynx and floor of mouth were least likely to be involved (7% and 6%). Only 1 patient was found to have C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency. Twenty‐eight percent of patients had asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergies, or atopic dermatitis. Only 11% of episodes required airway intervention. No patients required airway intervention after admission.

Conclusion

Recurrent angioedema was primarily idiopathic, was less severe than ACE inhibitor angioedema, and was associated with an atopic history. There was less frequent worsening of symptoms after admission, and recurrences occurred more frequently are at the same anatomic subsite.

Level of Evidence

IV.
PMPC Modified PAMAM Dendrimer Enhances Brain Tumor‐Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Ban Jiamin , Li Sidi , Zhan Qi , Li Xuepin , Xing Huike , Chen Ning , Long Lixia , Hou Xin , Zhao Jin , Yuan Xubo
Published: January 2021

The excellent biocompatibility drug delivery system for effective treatment of glioma is still greatly challenged by the existence of blood–brain barrier, blood–brain tumor barrier, and the tissue toxicity caused by chemotherapy drugs. In this study, poly(2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC) is used for the first time for modifying third‐generation poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) to enhance their brain tumor‐targeted drug delivery ability as well as simultaneously reducing the toxicity of PAMAM dendrimers and the tissue toxicity of the loaded doxorubicin (DOX). The cytotoxicity, the therapeutic ability in vitro, and the brain tumor‐targeted ability of the PMPC modified PAMAM nanoparticles are further studied. Results indicate that PMPC, as a dual‐functional modifier, can significantly reduce the cytotoxicity of PAMAM dendrimers, while efficiently target the brain tumor. In addition, the therapeutic effect of DOX‐loaded PAMAM‐PMPC in mice inoculated with U‐87 is also studied in vivo. In comparison with DOX solution, DOX‐loaded PAMAM‐PMPC alleviates weight loss of tumor‐inoculated mice and reduces the cardiotoxicity of DOX. The tumor growth inhibition, in vivo, is significantly increased up to (80.76 ± 1.66)%. In conclusion, this strategy of PMPC dual‐functional targeted nanocarrier provides a new method for the delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs to treat glioma.
Onq‐analogue of a parametric generalization of Baskakov operators
Authors: Narain Agrawal Purshottam , Baxhaku Behar , Shukla Rahul
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this paper is to define aq‐analogue of a parametric generalization of Baskakov operators introduced by Aral and Erbay (Math. Commun. 24(1) (2019), 119‐131). We establish some local direct results for these operators by means of the modulus of continuity and the Peetre'sK‐functional. Weighted approximation properties are also established. Next, we construct a bivariate case of the aboveq‐operators and determine the rate of convergence in terms of the moduli of continuity. A Voronovskaja‐type theorem is derived too. Further, we study the rate of approximation of Bögel continuous and Bögel differentiable functions by the associated generalized Boolean sum (GBS) operators with the aid of mixed modulus of smoothness. We illustrate the rate of approximation of theq‐operators, their bivariate, and the GBS cases by means of graphics and tables and show that the GBS operators provide better rate of convergence than the bivariate operators.
2.5D frequency selective surface with quasi‐elliptical bandpass response
Authors: Zhao Zhen‐Zhen , Chen Xiao‐Ming , Kishk Ahmed A. , Zhang An‐Xue
Published: January 2021

In this article, a via‐based 2.5‐dimensional (2.5D) frequency selective surface (FSS) is proposed to realize a quasi‐elliptical bandpass response with high frequency selectivity. Each FSS element is composed of two parts. Part A is a double‐layer metallic circular patches, which are etched on both sides of a thick substrate and connected by a central big metallic via and several small vias. Part B is a single layer metallic circular patch etched on a thin substrate. The proposed FSS features several transmission/reflection zeros, exhibiting a flat transmission in the passband and fast roll‐off out of band. By investigating the electric field distributions, two paths of electromagnetic wave (EMW) propagation are observed, and the physical mechanism of the transmission/reflection zeros of the FSS is obtained. A prototype of the FSS is fabricated to verify the design, and the measured transmission responses agree with the simulated ones.
Uniform voltage distribution analysis for high peak voltage antenna tuner switch
Authors: Ren Jiangchuan , Dai Ruofan , He Jun , Zhang Zhengxuan , Zou Shichang
Published: January 2021

This paper presents a theoretical analysis for achieving uniform voltage distribution among stacked field effect transistors (FETs) of RF tuner switch. The RF peak voltage (Vpeak) is limited by the unequal divided voltage drop among stacked FETs. A simplified equivalent capacitor circuit is established and an analytical expression is then derived for the first time to decide the value of ideal equivalent capacitance of each FET in the stack for achieving equal voltage division. Varying size of each stacked FET to set that the drain‐to‐source capacitance (Cds) equals to the capacitance from the proposed analytical expression can obtain a uniform voltage distribution, and thus a much higher Vpeak. To validate the proposed analytical expression, a 4‐shunt single‐pole single‐throw (4xSPST) switch is fabricated in HHGrace's 0.13 μm RF silicon‐on‐insulator process. Simulation and measurement results show that the switch features a uniform voltage distribution and a significant improvement in Vpeak.
Display Technology Branches Out
Authors: Atwood Stephen P.
Published: January 2021

Welcome to 2021 and the beginning of a new year for Information Display. We have some fascinating stories and features coming up. We'll be covering timely display topics such as OLED manufacturing, more on HDR and wide color gamuts, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), flexible displays, and much more. Also, we're always looking for volunteers to work as guest editors and welcome any new topical suggestions you might have. Our full 2021 editorial calendar is available online (www.informationdisplay.org).
Telecentric Blue Light Lenses: Promising Advantages for Machine Vision
Authors: Link Claudia
Published: January 2021

Although red LED technology is further in its development, blue LEDs offer notable advantages for machine vision in industrial image processing. Here, the author explores a series of telecentric lenses for the blue spectral range, detailing the multiple hurdles that such lens development requires.
Location‐scale monitoring of ordinal categorical processes
Authors: Bai Kaizong , Li Jian
Published: January 2021

In many applications, process variables are measured by categorical data with some natural order among their attribute levels, such as “good,” “marginal,” and “bad.” This paper considers monitoring ordinal categorical factors, which are determined by their latent continuous variables. The monitoring considers shifts in the location or scale parameters of latent variables, but only the ordinal attribute levels are observable. To this end, univariate and multivariate location‐scale log‐linear (LSL2) models are first established to describe a single ordinal factor and multiple ones, respectively. LSL2 models are founded on the score tests with respect to the location and scale parameters of continuous variables, which transform the detection of latent location and scale shifts into testing the coefficients of LSL2 models. Based on this, univariate and multivariate location‐scale ordinal control charts are proposed for detecting shifts in the location and scale parameters of the latent continuous variable of a single ordinal factor, as well as shifts in the location, scale, and correlation parameters of the underlying continuous variables of multiple ordinal factors. Simulation results have demonstrated the power of the proposed methods under various types of latent continuous distributions.
Project implementation in local authorities: The Botswana context
Authors: Samboma Thabile Anita
Published: January 2021

Botswana is faced with many challenges of project implementation in local authorities. Since independence in 1966, the Government of Botswana has been spending millions in developmental projects in order to improve service delivery. However, despite government's efforts, there is a national outcry for poor service delivery emanating from project implementation especially in local authorities. The aim of the study was to find out challenges of project implementation in Botswana's Local Authorities (LA's). This was a qualitative study, which used Urban and a District council namely; Francistown City Council and Kweneng District Council. Telephone interviews were used to collect data. Target population was councilors and officers responsible for project implementation. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that poor community engagement, lack of financial autonomy by LAs, weak human capacity, and poor coordination of oversight institutions are a hindrance to project implementation in LAs.
The impact of political institutional quality on social cohesion: Evidence from worldwide perspective
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad , Anwar Mumtaz , Pervaiz Zahid
Published: January 2021

Diversity and socioeconomic deprivation have been widely discussed as determinants of social cohesion. These two factors are considered to be a threat to social cohesion. The existing literature identifies the problem, however, the literature suggesting the solution is very limited. The most important determinant which can cure the problems of social cohesion is the better quality of institutions, however, there is hardly any literature on this aspect. The current study has investigated the impact of political institutional quality on social cohesion by employing the fixed‐effect model for estimation. The analysis is conducted for 135 countries, using five‐year average panel data. The results suggest that political institutional quality augments social cohesion, gender equality, and per capita income also augment social cohesion. Ethnic diversity, income inequality, and globalization are a threat to social cohesion. Moreover, the threat to social cohesion is greater when there are low political institutional quality and high ethnic diversity, and income inequality as compared to a situation where there are high political institutional quality and low ethnic diversity, and income inequality. The results further suggest that the harmful effects of ethnic diversity, inequality, and globalization can be, not only overcome by institutional quality but can also be put to use to enhance social cohesion.
Applying behavioral analytic consultation to schools to assess and treat a student's elopement
Authors: Lill Jordan D. , Bassingthwaite Brenda J. , Cox Jessica L.
Published: January 2021

A team of behavioral consultants applied the Behavioral Analytic Consultation to Schools model while working with educators in a public school setting to evaluate and treat elopement behavior of an 11‐year‐old student with autism spectrum disorder. Assessment conducted by the consultants included interviews, descriptive analysis, preference assessment, trial‐based functional analysis of elopement, and a reinforcer analysis conducted using an alternating treatment design. An acceptable behavior intervention was developed in consultation with educational staff and family. Consultants trained educational staff on procedures to implement the intervention and data collection. When intervention components were implemented as designed, the student's elopement in the classroom and out of the school building decreased. This study is an example of a successful application of the Behavioral Analytic Consultation to Schools model where consultants take primary responsibility for the evaluation, and collaborate with educational team members and family members to apply what was learned from the assessment to a successful intervention. The results of this application of the model provide continued support for evaluating the use of the model to improve outcomes for students engaging in severe behavior in public school settings.
Use of psychotropic drugs among older patients with bladder cancer in the United States
Authors: Jazzar Usama , Bergerot Cristiane D. , Shan Yong , Wallis Christopher J. D. , Freedland Stephen J. , Kamat Ashish M. , Tyler Douglas S. , Baillargeon Jacques , Kuo Yong‐Fang , Klaassen Zachary , Williams Stephen B.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Older patients diagnosed with cancer are at increased risk of physical and emotional distress; however, prescription utilization patterns largely remain to be elucidated. Our objective was to comprehensively assess prescription patterns and predictors in older patients with bladder cancer.

Methods

A total of 10,516 older patients diagnosed with clinical stage T1–T4a, N0, M0 bladder urothelial carcinoma from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2012 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)‐Medicare were analyzed. We used multivariable analysis to determine predictors associated with psychotropic prescription rates (one or more). Medication possession ratio (MPR) was used as an index to measure adherence in intervals of 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. Evaluation of psychotropic prescribing patterns and adherence across different drugs and demographic factors was done.

Results

Of the 10,516 older patients, 5621 (53%) were prescribed psychotropic drugs following cancer diagnosis. Overall, 3972 (38%) patients had previous psychotropic prescriptions prior to cancer diagnosis, and these patients were much more likely to receive a post‐cancer diagnosis prescription. Prescription rates for psychotropic medications were higher among patients with higher stage BC (p < 0.001). Gamma aminobutyric acid modulators/stimulators and serotonin reuptake inhibitors/stimulators were the highest prescribed psychotropic drugs in 21% of all patients. Adherence for all drugs was 32% at 3 months and continued to decrease over time.

Conclusion

Over half of the patients received psychotropic prescriptions within 2 years of their cancer diagnosis. Given the chronicity of psychiatric disorders with observed significantly low adherence to medications that warrants an emphasis on prolonged patient monitoring and further investigation.
Reliability analysis for multi‐state systems subject to distinct random shocks
Authors: Cao Yingsai , Dong Wenjie
Published: January 2021

This paper analyzes the competing and dependent failure processes for multi‐state systems suffering from four typical random shocks. Reliability analysis for discrete degradation is conducted by explicitly modeling the state transition characteristics. Semi‐Markov model is employed to explore how the system vulnerability and potential transition gap affect the state residence time. The failure dependence is specified as that random shocks can not only lead to different abrupt failures but also cause sudden changes on the state transition probabilities, making it easier for the system to stay at the degraded states. Reliability functions for all the exposed failure processes are presented based on the corresponding mechanisms. Interactions between different failure processes are also taken into account to evaluate the actual reliability levels in the context of degradation and distinct random shocks. An illustrative example of a multi‐state air conditioning system is studied to demonstrate how the proposed method can be applied to the engineering practice.
Design of a proportional integral derivative‐like continuous sliding mode controller
Authors: Pérez‐Ventura Ulises , Mendoza‐Avila Jesús , Fridman Leonid
Published: January 2021

A describing function‐based design for the continuous sliding mode controller in the proportional integral derivative (PID) form (PID‐CSMC) is provided. Two sets of the PID‐CSMC gains are suggested. The Harmonic Balance is used to predict the amplitude and frequency of the main harmonic of chattering caused by the presence of fast‐parasitic dynamics in the closed‐loop. Predicted values of amplitude and frequency allow to compute the average power needed to maintain the trajectories of the system into real sliding modes. The methodology for selection of suboptimal PID‐CSMC gains consists of amplitude of chattering and average power minimization, taking into account the presence of a critically damped actuator parameterizing the effects of parasitic dynamics. A novel homogeneous Lyapunov function proves that suggested sets of the PID‐CSMC gains ensure, in theory, finite‐time stability of the perturbed double integrator without parasitic dynamics, and exact compensation of Lipschitz perturbations. On the other hand, the Loeb's criterion allows to ensure that the PID‐CSMC with suggested gains generates orbitally asymptotically stable fast‐oscillations in the presence of fast‐actuators.
Parameters synergism in the preparation of TiN(100) transition layer with high structural integrity on Si(100): First‐principles calculations and experimental investigations
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Weihua , Shu Guoyang , Fang Shishu , Dai Bing , Zhu Jiaqi
Published: January 2021

The mechanical properties of titanium nitride (TiN) and related multicomponent films have been studied for decades. However, the virtues of TiN(100) coatings themselves and of their binding ability to Si(100) substrate are to be studied to ensure the application of transition layer for upper sediment, while the synergism between various growth parameters needs a further understanding. Herein, we present the mechanical properties of TiN(100), (111) planes and binding nature of Si(100)/TiN(100) interface by first principle. Then, TiN(100) films were epitaxially grown by pulse laser deposition (PLD) method on Si wafers under different conditions, and the structures, valence states, and properties were tested. We have obtained a high‐quality deposit with the hardness of ~31 GPa, which can firmly adhere on the substrate with high structural integrity, thus can be employed for further deposition of other oxide films. In general, higher substrate temperature and laser energy will improve the quality of the film. We anticipate that this study can give some hints on the properties of different crystal faces and the relationship of preparation variables during growing process.
Apolipoprotein E4–driven effects on inflammatory and neurotrophic factors in peripheral extracellular vesicles from cognitively impaired, no dementia participants who converted to Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ben Khedher Mohamed Raâfet , Haddad Mohamed , Laurin Danielle , Ramassamy Charles
Published: January 2021

Introduction

In brain, extracellular vesicles (EVs) play an essential role in the neuron‐glia interface and ensure the crosstalk between the brain and the periphery. Some studies now link the pathway dysfunction of the EVs to apolipoprotein E gene variant (APOE ε4) and the risk of progression to Alzheimer's disease (AD). To better understand the role of APOE ε4 in pre‐clinical AD, we have determined levels of pathogenic, neurotrophic and inflammatory proteins in peripheral EVs (pEVs) and in plasma from cognitively impaired, no dementia (CIND) participants stratified upon the absence (APOE ε4‐) or the presence (APOE ε4+ ) of the ε4 allele of APOE.

Methods

Levels of 15 neurodegenerative, neurotrophic and neuroinflammatory proteins were quantified in pEVs and compared to their plasma levels from cognitively normal and CIND participants.

Results

Levels of neurotrophic and inflammatory markers were reduced in pEVs from APOE ε4+. The pentraxin‐2/α‐synuclein ratio measured in pEVs was able to predict AD 5 years before the onset among APOE ε4+‐CIND individuals.

Discussion

Our findings suggest an alteration of the endosomal pathway in APOE ε4+ and that pEVs pentraxin‐2/α‐synuclein ratio could serve as a useful early biomarker for AD susceptibility.
Exploring Factors Associated With Full Implementation of the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid Tobacco Cessation Provisions
Authors: McMenamin Sara B. , Yoeun Sara W.
Published: January 2021

Medicaid enrollees use tobacco at rates more than double that of the general population. To address this disparity, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) contained provisions to increase access to tobacco cessation treatments for Medicaid enrollees. There have been relatively low levels of implementation of these provisions by Medicaid programs. This research aims to evaluate the potential political, economic, and policy factors associated with implementation of each of the four tobacco‐cessation‐related ACA provisions. In 2017, UC San Diego researchers collected survey data from 51 Medicaid programs on tobacco cessation treatment policies and state‐level variables from publicly available sources. Implementation of these provisions was associated with state‐level variables such as having a budget shortfall during the recession years, Democratic control of the Governorship or legislature, and higher state cigarette taxes. Further guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will be necessary to achieve full implementation of these ACA provisions.
Shared Stigma: The Effect of LGBT Status on Attitudes About the Opioid Epidemic
Authors: Haeder Simon F. , Sylvester Steven , Callaghan Timothy
Published: January 2021

Over the past decade, the United States has been ravaged by an unprecedented public health crisis. In 2017 alone, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified more than 70,000 individuals who died from an overdose. The dominant culprit in these deaths are opioids, which accounted for two‐thirds of cases. Scholars have worked diligently to provide a better understanding of the root causes, extent, implications, and possible solutions to the opioid epidemic. A group that is disproportionately affected by illicit drug use, substance abuse disorder, and mental health issues has received little attention in this growing body of research: people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). We conducted a large national survey to study this issue in depth. Specifically, our analysis uses a national survey weighted to population benchmarks with an oversample of LGBT respondents to better understand attitudes about the opioid epidemic and whom the public blames for the crisis. Our analysis finds consistent evidence that LGBT individuals are less likely to blame individuals with addictions for the opioid epidemic. Simultaneously, we find that conservatism, high levels of religiosity, addiction status, and high levels of racial resentment all increase the likelihood that individuals blame addicts themselves.
Global 3-group symmetry and ’t Hooft anomalies in axion electrodynamics
Authors: Hidaka Yoshimasa , Nitta Muneto , Yokokura Ryo
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We investigate a higher-group structure of massless axion electrodynamics in (3 + 1) dimensions. By using the background gauging method, we show that the higher-form symmetries necessarily have a global semistrict 3-group (2-crossed module) structure, and exhibit ’t Hooft anomalies of the 3-group. In particular, we find a cubic mixed ’t Hooft anomaly between 0-form and 1-form symmetries, which is specific to the higher-group structure.
On symmetries and dynamics of exotic supermultiplets
Authors: Minasian Ruben , Strickland-Constable Charles , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Among the allowed representations of extended supersymmetry in six dimensions there are exotic chiral multiplets that, instead of a graviton, contain mixed-symmetry spin-2 tensor fields. Notably, an $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (4, 0) multiplet has a four index exotic graviton and it was conjectured that an interacting theory based on this multiplet could arise as a strong coupling limit of M theory compactified on T6. We present an algebraic study of these multiplets and their possible embedding into the framework of exceptional field theory, finding in particular that the six-dimensional momenta do not correspond to a conventional space-time section. When compactified on a circle, the six-dimensional multiplets give rise to the same degrees of freedom as five-dimensional supergravity theories with the same number of supersymmetries. However, by considering anomalies (computed using the product multiplets construction) and the generation of Chern-Simons couplings, we find reason to doubt that their dynamics will agree with the five-dimensional gravity theories. We propose an alternative picture, similar to F-theory, in which particular fixed-volume T3-fibered space-times play a central role, suggesting that only on compactification to three-dimensions will one make contact with the dynamics of supergravity.
Analytic representation of all planar two-loop five-point Master Integrals with one off-shell leg
Authors: Canko Dhimiter D. , Papadopoulos Costas G. , Syrrakos Nikolaos
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We present analytic expressions in terms of polylogarithmic functions for all three families of planar two-loop five-point Master Integrals with one off-shell leg. The calculation is based on the Simplified Differential Equations approach. The results are relevant to the study of many 2→3 scattering processes of interest at the LHC, especially for the leading-colorW+ 2 jets production.
Correction to: What microRNAs could tell us about the human X chromosome
Authors: Di Palo Armando , Siniscalchi Chiara , Salerno Mariacarolina , Russo Aniello , Gravholt Claus Højbjerg , Potenza Nicoletta
Published: January 2021

The article What microRNAs could tell us about the human X chromosome.
Versorgungszustand von Patienten vor Zuweisung an ein universitäres Wundzentrum
Authors: Erfurt-Berge Cornelia , Michler Melanie , Renner Regina
Published: January 2021

Hintergrund und Fragestellung

Die Versorgungswege von Patienten mit chronischen Wunden sind häufig sehr langwierig. Dies kann zu einer verminderten Versorgungsqualität und zu einer verspäteten Diagnose der eigentlichen Ursache führen. Gleichzeitig existieren zertifizierte Einrichtungen für diese Patientengruppe. Die vorliegende Arbeit untersucht mögliche Gründe für eine verzögerte Zuweisung an diese Zentren und ob eine spezifische Patientenauswahl an universitäre Zentren gelangt.

Patienten und Methoden

Durch eine retrospektive Auswertung der Patientendatensätze zum Zeitpunkt der Erstvorstellung im zertifizierten Wundzentrum wurden Variablen zum Versorgungszustand vor der universitären Vorstellung analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Es konnten Datensätze von 177 Patienten ausgewertet werden (53 % weiblich, 47 % männlich). Die Altersspanne lag zwischen 27 und 95 Jahren. Die mittlere Bestandsdauer der Wunde betrug 22 Monate. Eine Gefäßdiagnostik war im Vorfeld in 32 % (arterielle Diagnostik) bzw. 36 % (phlebologische Diagnostik) durchgeführt worden. Eine Gewebeprobe war in 9 % der Fälle entnommen worden, v. a. bei Patienten mit > 24 Monaten bestehender Wunde. In nur 45 % der Fälle stimmte die externe Diagnose mit der im Wundzentrum abschließend gestellten Diagnose überein.

Diskussion

Die Versorgungssituation von Patienten mit chronischen Wunden außerhalb spezialisierter Versorgungsstrukturen ist als unzureichend anzusehen. Eine frühzeitige Versorgung nach etablierten Standards in Diagnostik und Therapie sowie zeitnahe Überweisung bei stagnierendem Verlauf an eine Spezialsprechstunde sind anzustreben.
Impact of COVID‐19 Restrictions on Demographics and Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Medically Necessary Non‐Emergent Surgeries During the Pandemic
Authors: Shannon Adrienne B. , Roberson Jeffrey L. , Keele Luke , Bharani Tina , Song Yun , Miura John T. , Kelz Rachel R. , Dempsey Daniel T. , Fleisher Lee A. , DeMatteo Ronald P. , Karakousis Giorgos C.
Published: January 2021

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has resulted in large‐scale healthcare restrictions to control viral spread, reducing operating room censuses to include only medically necessary surgeries. The impact of restrictions on which patients undergo surgical procedures and their perioperative outcomes is less understood.

Methods

Adult patients who underwent medically necessary surgical procedures at our institution during a restricted operative period due to the COVID‐19 pandemic (March 23‐April 24, 2020) were compared to patients undergoing procedures during a similar time period in the pre‐COVID‐19 era (March 25‐April 26, 2019). Cardinal matching and differences in means were utilized to analyze perioperative outcomes.

Results

857 patients had surgery in 2019 (pre‐COVID‐19) and 212 patients had surgery in 2020 (COVID‐19). The COVID‐19 era cohort had a higher proportion of patients who were male (61.3% vs. 44.5%, P < 0.0001), were White (83.5% vs. 68.7%, P < 0.001), had private insurance (62.7% vs. 54.3%, p 0.05), were ASA classification 4 (10.9% vs. 3%, P < 0.0001), and underwent oncologic procedures (69.3% vs. 42.7%, P < 0.0001). Following 1:1 cardinal matching, COVID‐19 era patients (N = 157) had a decreased likelihood of discharge to a nursing facility (risk difference‐8.3, P < 0.0001) and shorter median length of stay (risk difference‐0.6, p 0.04) compared to pre‐COVID‐19 era patients. There was no difference between the two patient cohorts in overall morbidity and 30‐day readmission.

Conclusions

COVID‐19 restrictions on surgical operations were associated with a change in the racial and insurance demographics in patients undergoing medically necessary surgical procedures but were not associated with worse postoperative morbidity. Further study is necessary to better identify the causes for patient demographic differences.
Correction to: The impact of cochlear implant microphone settings on the binaural hearing of experienced cochlear implant users with single-sided deafness
Authors: Kurz Anja , Zanzinger Maren , Hagen Rudolf , Rak Kristen
Published: January 2021

In the original publication of the article, under the section Binaural effects, the following sentence.
From long-lived batholith construction to giant porphyry copper deposit formation: petrological and zircon chemical evolution of the Quellaveco District, Southern Peru
Authors: Nathwani Chetan L. , Simmons Adam T. , Large Simon J. E. , Wilkinson Jamie J. , Buret Yannick , Ihlenfeld Christian
Published: January 2021

Porphyry Cu ore deposits are a rare product of arc magmatism that often form spatiotemporal clusters in magmatic arcs. The petrogenetic evolution of igneous rocks that cover the temporal window prior to and during porphyry Cu deposit formation may provide critical insights into magmatic processes that are key in generating these systems. This study documents the magmatic evolution of the Palaeocene–Eocene Yarabamba Batholith, Southern Peru, that was incrementally assembled between ~ 67 and ~ 59 Ma and hosts three, nearly contemporaneous, giant porphyry Cu–Mo deposits that formed at 57–54 Ma (Quellaveco, Toquepala and Cuajone). Whole-rock geochemistry, U–Pb geochronology and zircon trace element chemistry are reported from Yarabamba rocks that span the duration of plutonic activity, and from six porphyry intrusions at Quellaveco that bracket mineralisation. A change in whole-rock chemistry in Yarabamba intrusive rocks to high Sr/Y, high La/Yb and high Eu/Eu* is observed at ~ 60 Ma which is broadly coincident with a change in vector of the converging Nazca plate and the onset of regional compression and crustal thickening during the first stage of the Incaic orogeny. The geochemical changes are interpreted to reflect a deepening of the locus of lower crustal magma evolution in which amphibole ± garnet are stabilised as early and abundant fractionating phases and plagioclase is suppressed. Zircons in these rocks show a marked change towards higher Eu/Eu* (> 0.3) and lower Ti (< 9 ppm) compositions after ~ 60 Ma. Numerical modelling of melt Eu systematics and zircon-melt partitioning indicates that the time series of zircon Eu/Eu* in these rocks can be explained by a transition from shallower, plagioclase-dominated fractionation to high-pressure amphibole-dominated fractionation at deep crustal levels from ~ 60 Ma. Our modelling suggests that any redox effects on zircon Eu/Eu* are subordinate compared to changes in melt composition controlled by the fractionating mineral assemblage. We suggest that growth and intermittent recharge of the lower crustal magma reservoir from ~ 60 Ma produced a significant volume of hydrous and metallogenically fertile residual melt which ascended to the upper crust and eventually generated the three giant porphyry Cu–Mo deposits at Quellaveco, Toquepala and Cuajone from ~ 57 Ma. Our study highlights the importance of high-pressure magma differentiation fostered by strongly compressive tectonic regimes in generating world-class porphyry Cu deposits.
Evaluation of microhaplotypes in forensic kinship analysis from a Swedish population perspective
Authors: Staadig Adam , Tillmar Andreas
Published: January 2021

The development of massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technology has enabled the discovery of several new types of forensic markers where microhaplotypes are one of these promising novel genetic markers. Microhaplotypes are, commonly, less than 300 nucleotides in length and consist of two or more closely linked single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In this study, we have examined a custom-made QIAseq Microhaplotype panel (Qiagen), including 45 different microhaplotype loci. DNA libraries were prepared according to the GeneRead DNAseq Targeted Panels V2 library preparation workflow (Qiagen) and sequenced on a MiSeq FGx instrument (Verogen). We evaluated the performance of the panel based on 75 samples of Swedish origin and haplotype frequencies were established. We performed sensitivity studies and could detect haplotypes at input amounts down to 0.8 ng. We also studied mixture samples with two contributors for which haplotypes, for the minor contributor, were detectable down to the level of 1:100. Furthermore, we executed kinship simulations to evaluate the usefulness of this panel in kinship analysis. The results showed that both paternity and full sibling cases can clearly be solved. When simulating a half sibling versus unrelated case scenario, there were, however, some overlap of the likelihood ratio distributions potentially resulting in inconclusiveness. To conclude, the results of this initial study are promising for further implementation of this microhaplotype assay into the forensic field, although we noticed some primer design issues that could be optimized, which possibly would increase the power of the assay.
Physical fatigability and muscle pain in patients with Hashimoto thyroiditis
Authors: Jordan B. , Uer O. , Buchholz T. , Spens A. , Zierz S.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) may lead to muscle weakness due to hypothyroid dysfunction. However, clinical experience treating patients with HT suggests that neuromuscular symptoms may develop in these patients despite long-standing euthyroidism.

Methods

In 24 euthyroid patients with HT and 25 healthy controls, physical fatigability was assessed using the arm movement test (AMT) and 6-min walk test (6MWT). Fatigability was based on calculation of linear trend (LT) reflecting dynamic performance within subsequent constant time intervals. Perception of physical fatigue and muscle pain was analyzed using fatigue (FSMC) and pain questionnaires. Obtained results were correlated with clinical, neurophysiological and lab findings.

Results

HT patients showed a negative LT in 6MWT significantly differing from stable performance in controls. LT in AMT did not differ between HT and controls. FSMC scores and pain perception revealed significantly higher levels in HT patients than in controls. Physical FSMC score was primarily influenced by pain perception (standardized regression coefficient, beta = 0.633, p = 0.002). Neither pain score nor physical fatigue score showed a correlation with LT in 6MWT nor did mood, or anti-TPO antibody titer.

Conclusion

A significant physical fatigability could be shown in euthyroid HT patients despite missing obvious neuromuscular deficits in routine testing. Further, elevated pain and fatigue perception in HT patients seem to contribute to nonspecific muscle complaints in these patients. A possible pathogenic role of thyroid autoimmunity in hidden neuromuscular involvement may be suggested.
Simple mucinous cyst: another potential cancer precursor in the pancreas? Case report with molecular characterization and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Milanetto Anna Caterina , Tonello Alice Sabrina , Valotto Giovanni , Munari Giada , Luchini Claudio , Fassan Matteo , Pasquali Claudio
Published: January 2021

Cystic lesions of the pancreas may range from benign to precursors of pancreatic cancer. Simple mucinous cyst (SMC) is larger than 1 cm, has a gastric-type flat mucinous lining, and minimal atypia without ovarian-type stroma. We report a new case of pancreatic SMC, coupling a systematic review of the English literature mainly focused on their clinic-pathological features. We reviewed 103 cases of SMC in adults (73 women), averaging 57 (range, 26–70) years. The SMCs were located in the body-tail region of the pancreas in 60 (58%) cases, presenting as single cystic lesions in 94% of cases; 43% of patients were asymptomatic. A preoperative fine-needle aspiration of the cyst fluid detected amylase and carcinoembryonic antigen positivity in 71% and 76% of cases, respectively. Patients underwent surgery mostly for suspected malignancy; in 83% of cases, a standard pancreatic resection was performed. Mean SMC size was 4.9 (range, 1.5–12.0) cm. Mucins MUC5AC and MUC6 resulted positive in 77% and 81% of cases performed, respectively, whereas MUC2 was negative in all but one patient. The SMC from our institution was characterized by a KRAS somatic mutation. The diagnosis of SMC should be considered when a solitary pancreatic cyst larger than 1 cm is detected in asymptomatic patients. To establish a correct diagnosis, an extensive histologic/immunohistochemical analysis is essential. The presence of a KRAS mutation highlights that SMC may represent another potential pancreatic cancer precursor.
Multiple Sklerose: Infektionsprophylaxe und Impfungen
Authors: Seifert-Held Thomas
Published: January 2021

Hochwirksame krankheitsmodifizierende Therapien der multiplen Sklerose sind mit einem allgemein höheren Risiko für Infektionserkrankungen verbunden. Darüber hinaus bestehen substanzspezifische Risiken. Unter Anti-CD20-Therapien ist die Reaktivierung einer Hepatitis-B-Infektion möglich. Die Reaktivierung einer Tuberkulose ist vor der Anwendung von Teriflunomid, Cladribin und Alemtuzumab zu berücksichtigen. Zur Risikostratifizierung des Auftretens einer progressiven multifokalen Leukenzephalopathie unter Therapie mit Natalizumab ist der Anti-JCV-Antikörperindex etabliert. Eine Vorbeugung von Varizella-zoster-Virus- (VZV-)Infektionen ist für eine Therapie mit Fingolimod, Cladribin und Alemtuzumab erforderlich. Vor Beginn einer hochwirksamen krankheitsmodifizierenden Therapie sollen ausständige Impfungen verabreicht werden, dabei müssen Lebendimpfungen, wie z. B. gegen VZV, mindestens 4 Wochen vor Therapiebeginn appliziert werden. Unter Therapie können nur Totimpfstoffe verwendet werden, deren Impferfolg reduziert ist. In der aktuellen COVID-19-Pandemie gehören Patient(inn)en mit hochwirksamen krankheitsmodifizierenden Therapien zur Risikogruppe. Die aktuell (Stand Januar 2021) gegen SARS-CoV‑2 zugelassenen Impfstoffe sind unter diesen Therapien anwendbar.