bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building Research Capacity in HIV and Noncommunicable Diseases in Africa: A Mentorship and Leadership Workshop Report
Authors: Aliyu Muktar H. , Sani Mahmoud U. , Ingles Donna J. , Tsiga-Ahmed Fatimah I. , Musa Baba M. , Ahonkhai Aimalohi A. , Salihu Hamisu M. , Audet Carolyn M. , Wester C. William
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Few structured mentoring programs target early-stage investigators in Africa, creating a gap in mentorship skills where HIV burden is greatest. We describe findings from a Nigeria-based workshop for early-career physician scientists to build mentoring and leadership capacity in HIV and noncommunicable disease research.

Methods:

Baseline surveys captured participant demographics, confidence in implementing mentoring competencies, and perceived importance of workshop training domains. The workshop included didactic presentations, small group activities, and interactive discussions. Daily surveys evaluated sessions, and postworkshop surveys solicited overall course impressions.

Results:

Of the 33 participants, most were male (n = 21, 63.6%) and from medicine, laboratory sciences, and surgical specialties. “Building mentees' confidence” and “setting mentees' research goals” were ranked as areas where participants most believed they needed training. Sessions were rated favorably across five areas. Greatest improvements in mean scores were for confidence in identifying personal temperament styles, describing mentoring and leadership theories/frameworks, and developing mentoring plans. Additional identified workshop strengths were content relevance, leadership case series, interactive nature, and collegial atmosphere. All respondents indicated learning something new/useful/helpful in each session. At 6-month postworkshop, most respondents (25 of 26, 96%) had replicated or plan to replicate parts of the workshop in their departments/institutions.

Discussion:

Effective mentoring training initiatives targeting future academic leaders have the potential to create skilled academicians who can impart mentoring skills and competencies to their mentees.
The Value of Telehealth and a Team-Based Approach in Improving Developmental and Behavioral Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Barnhardt Elizabeth W. , Steingass Katherine , Levine Ann , Jurbank Meg , Piercefield Julie , Nyp Sarah S.
Published: August 2021

CASE:

Billy is a 2.6-year-old boy who presented for evaluation in the developmental-behavioral pediatrics (DBP) clinic 2 weeks before the onset of pandemic-related clinic restrictions. Billy had received early intervention for the past year because of speech and fine motor delays. Billy's parents requested the evaluation in the DBP clinic because his delayed speech and disruptive behaviors had raised concern that he may have autism spectrum disorder. Owing to the onset of the pandemic, subsequent visits were completed through telehealth with a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, psychologist, behavioral clinician, and social workers who developed a collaborative plan of care. Billy was diagnosed with global developmental delay, significant tantrums, and impulsivity but did not meet the criteria for autism spectrum disorder.

Billy lives with his parents and 2 sisters in a rural area, 3 hours from the DBP clinic. Both of his parents have been treated for depression in the past and reported that school was difficult for them. His sisters, ages 5 and 6 years, receive speech/language therapy but have not required additional special education services. His family has endured recent stressors including a flooding event that caused significant damage to their home, financial difficulties, and the recent unexpected death of a close family member. Billy's disruptive behaviors have resulted in difficulty finding and maintaining child care, further contributing to parental stress and dysfunction in the home.

Despite assistance from the social worker, additional developmental and behavioral support services near the family's home were not identified. Therefore, services were offered to Billy and his parents through telehealth. Billy's parents began behavioral parent training with a clinician embedded within the DBP clinic and, with direct support from his parents, Billy began receiving supplemental speech/language and occupational therapies through telehealth. Through recurrent engagement with Billy's parents and frequent communication among the behavioral clinician, developmental-behavioral pediatrician, psychologist, and social worker, Billy was able to make significant developmental progress, and his parents reported improved ability to manage his difficult behaviors.

How can telehealth be used to help families navigate complex systems and obtain optimal care and support?
Contemporary management of infective native aortic aneurysms
Authors: Heinola Ivika , Sörelius Karl
Published: August 2021

Purpose of review

Infective native aortic aneurysms (INAAs) are challenging and complex with both bacteraemia and an aneurysm prone to rupture. They are fatal unless recognized and treated promptly. The rarity of the disease makes it unfamiliar to most physicians, which might delay both diagnosis and treatment.

The present review aims to outline the recently published diagnostic algorithm of INAAs, the main characteristics of the disease and present an overview of contemporary treatment strategies.

Recent findings

New terminology, definition, diagnostic algorithm and reporting standards have recently been proposed for INAAs. Current evidence concerning the treatment of INAAs is founded on retrospective register-based multicentre studies and small single-centre studies. Recent findings encourage the use of endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) for surgical treatment of INAAs. Although EVAR, as a surgical approach, does not drain the infection, the postoperative infection-related complication rates (IRCs) are similar to the ones reported after open surgical repair (OSR) with aortic prosthetic reconstruction and extensive debridement. IRCs carry over 50% risk of being fatal. Postoperative mortality after EVAR remains considerably lower supporting the use of method for aged and comorbid group of patients. Biological grafts have the benefit of being more resistant to reinfection. OSR with biological reconstruction is a promising surgical approach for patients fit for open surgery; however, data are scarce and long-term follow-up is lacking.

The treatment of INAAs should be guided by experienced multidisciplinary team and tailored individually based on patients’ condition and centres’ experience. An international consensus document is warranted to enable further research on this disease.
Downbeat nystagmus: a clinical review of diagnosis and management
Authors: Tran Tu M. , Lee Michael S. , McClelland Collin M.
Published: August 2021

Purpose of review

This review will extensively cover the clinical manifestations, causes, diagnostic evaluation, and management strategies of downbeat nystagmus (DBN).

Recent findings

Historically, MRI to assess for structural lesions at the cervicomedullary junction has been the primary diagnostic test in the evaluation of DBN since the 1980s. In recent years, there is increasing awareness of nonstructural causes of DBN including gluten ataxia, nutritional deficiencies, and paraneoplastic syndromes, among others. Medical management with aminopyridines has become first-line therapy in addition to disease-specific therapies.

DBN is a common form of acquired nystagmus and the differential diagnosis remains broad, including both benign and potentially fatal causes. For practical purposes, the causes can be categorized as structural vs. nonstructural with MRI as the ideal, initial diagnostic study to differentiate the two. General therapeutic options include pharmacotherapy to enhance Purkinje cell function, strabismus surgery or prisms to shift null points, and behavioural changes. Disease-specific treatment is necessarily broad, though a significant proportion of patients will be idiopathic.
Efficacy of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination 4 Years After Conization for High-Grade Cervical Neoplasia
Authors: Gómez de la Rosa Agustina Guacimara , Quesada López-Fe Alfonso , Vilar Chesa Mónica , Ferrer Machín Alejandro , Gimeno Gil Antonio , Molina Bethancourt Armando , García Bello Miguel Ángel , Pérez-Méndez Lina Inmaculada
Published: August 2021

Objective

The aim of the study was to estimate human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination efficacy in reducing recurrence risk within 4 years after conization for high-grade cervical neoplasia.

Materials and Methods

From January 2012 to June 2015, we performed a longitudinal, observational study (case-series study) on patients diagnosed with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2–3 neoplasia. Efficacy was estimated by a 95% CI of the relative risk, relative risk reduction, attributable risk, and number needed to treat. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used as appropriate to compare 160 vaccinated with 171 nonvaccinated patients. To estimate the hazard ratio of the vaccinated status, patients were subjected to multivariable analyses based on the Cox proportional hazard model. To compare recurrence-free survival, a Kaplan-Meier model and a log-rank test were applied.

Results

The overall recurrence was 9.4% in the nonvaccinated and 2.5% in the vaccinated group (p = .009). Vaccination was associated with a significant decrease in the relative risk (73.5%, 95% CI = 21.8%–90.9%) with a mean number needed to treat of 14 patients per relapse prevented. Although positive conization margins were related to the highest recurrence risk, not being vaccinated independently increased this risk 3.5-fold in a 4-year follow-up (p = .025). Cumulative recurrence-free rates differed significantly between both groups (log-rank test: p = .009).

Conclusions

Our study corroborates the benefits of HPV vaccination, recommends a closer and longer follow-up in nonvaccinated women, and offers a 4-year prognosis for patients undergoing conization for high-grade cervical lesions.
Rehabilitation nutrition for individuals with frailty, disability, sarcopenic dysphagia, or sarcopenic respiratory disability
Authors: Mizuno Satoko , Wakabayashi Hidetaka , Wada Futoshi
Published: August 2021

Purpose of review

We describe the recent advances in rehabilitation nutrition, which is especially important for disabled or frail older individuals.

Recent findings

Recent evidence pertaining to rehabilitation nutrition conducted in rehabilitation wards and acute care hospitals has been accumulating. The combination of rehabilitation nutrition and rehabilitation pharmacotherapy is important for eliciting higher functions. The 2020 update of the clinical practice guidelines for rehabilitation nutrition provides a weak recommendation for enhanced nutritional care for patients with cerebrovascular disease, hip fracture, cancer, or acute illness who are undergoing rehabilitation. Rehabilitation nutritional care process and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-Dietetics are used to implement high-quality rehabilitation nutrition. Aggressive nutrition therapy incorporates the daily energy expenditure plus daily energy accumulation to increase body weight and muscle mass. Preventing and treating sarcopenic dysphagia should include iatrogenic sarcopenia prevention and aggressive nutrition therapy. The diagnosis criteria for respiratory sarcopenia and sarcopenic respiratory disability have been established.

The International Association of Rehabilitation Nutrition and Total Nutrition Therapy Rehabilitation program may contribute to international expansion of rehabilitation nutrition. Improving evidence–practice gaps in rehabilitation nutrition and increasing national health insurance coverage of aggressive nutrition therapy and rehabilitation nutrition teams are warranted.
Skin pigmentation and vitamin D–folate interactions in vascular function: an update
Authors: Wolf S. Tony , Kenney W. Larry
Published: August 2021

Purpose of review

Vitamin D and folate promote vascular endothelial health and may therefore help mitigate the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure stimulates cutaneous vitamin D synthesis but degrades the bioactive metabolite of folate, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). Skin melanin absorbs UVR, thereby modulating the impact of UVR exposure on vitamin D and 5-MTHF metabolism. This review presents recent findings regarding the inter-relations among UVR, skin pigmentation, folate and vitamin D, and endothelial function.

Recent findings

Evidence for roles of folic acid or vitamin D supplementation on CVD endpoints is inconsistent, although preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of both micronutrients for improving endothelial function. Vitamin D deficiency is most prevalent in darkly pigmented individuals living in relatively low-UVR environments. Conversely, there is a negative relation between accumulated UVR exposure and serum folate concentration in lightly pigmented adults. The interactions among UVR and bioavailable folate and vitamin D differentially impact endothelial function in differently pigmented skin.

UVR exposure disparately impacts folate and vitamin D metabolism in differently pigmented skin depending upon regional UVR intensity and seasonality. These findings present new clinical research questions regarding the interactions among UVR, skin pigmentation, folate and vitamin D bioavailability, and endothelial health.
Evaluation of spin in the abstracts of emergency medicine systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Ferrell Matthew C. , Schell Jace , Ottwell Ryan , Arthur Wade , Bickford Trevor , Gardner Gavin , Goodrich Will , Platts-Mills Timothy F. , Hartwell Micah , Sealey Meghan , Zhu Lan , Vassar Matt
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The objective of this study was to assess for spin – a form of reporting that overemphasizes benefits or downplay harms – within abstracts of systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to the clinical practice of emergency medicine (EM).

Methods

PubMed was searched for systematic reviews and meta-analyses published since 2015 in either EM or general medical journals that examined an aspect of emergency medical care. In a duplicate, masked fashion, article titles and abstracts were screened to determine eligibility based on predetermined inclusion criteria. The included full-text studies were read and evaluated for spin using a previously determined search strategy. Two authors further evaluated study quality using the AMSTAR-2 tool.

Results

Our PubMed search identified 478 systematic reviews and meta-analyses, of which a random sample of 200 was selected for data extraction. Spin within the abstract of the manuscript was identified in 34.5% (69/200) of the included reviews. We identified seven of the nine spin types, with two types being most common: (1) conclusion claiming a benefit despite high risk of bias among studies reviewed (19.5% of abstracts), and (2) conclusion claiming a benefit despite reporting bias (14.5%). No significant associations were found between the presence of spin and any of the evaluated study characteristics, the AMSTAR-2 appraisal, or the journal of publication.

Conclusion

Spin is commonly present in abstracts of EM systematic reviews. The reporting quality for EM systematic reviews requires improvement. Measures should be taken to improve the overall review process and way information is conveyed through abstracts.
Depression in dialysis
Authors: Tian Na , Chen Na , Li Philip Kam-Tao
Published: August 2021

Purpose of review

The aim of this study was to examine updated prevalence rates, risk factors and the prognosis, diagnosis and treatments for depression among dialysis patients.

Recent findings

Depression influences prognosis, complications, quality of life (QOL), treatment and costs for dialysis patients worldwide. Reported prevalence of depression is 13.1–76.3%; it is higher for dialysis than transplant and higher post than predialysis. Reported depression rates with peritoneal dialysis (PD) compared with in-centre haemodialysis (HD) are inconsistent. Related medical factors are known, but suspected associated patient characteristics including gender and race remain unexplored. Associations between depression in dialysis and QOL, mortality, pathophysiological mechanisms of increased mortality, infection and pathways of inflammation-mediated and psychosocial factors require clarification. Several depression screening instruments are validated for dialysis patients – the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM disorders (SCID) remains the gold standard – but authors suggest the diagnostic standard should be higher than for the general population. Short-term studies indicate nonpharmacological therapy achieves clinical effects for depression in dialysis patients, but research on long-term effects is needed.

Depression management through early screening and continuous care models emphasizing dynamic relationships between healthcare teams, patients and families should be encouraged. Large-scale studies of short-term and long-term benefits of pharmacological and nonpharmacological depression management are warranted.
Utilizing Advanced Technology to Facilitate Diagnosis of Rare Retinal Disorders: A Case of Bietti Crystalline Dystrophy
Authors: Choi Kai Yip , Wong Horace Ho Yin , Chan Henry Ho Lung
Published: August 2021

SIGNIFICANCE

Optometrists, as primary eye care providers, encounter patients with rare ocular disease such as Bietti crystalline dystrophy from time to time. Using advanced technologies, which are also useful in managing common ocular conditions, to facilitate a prompt diagnosis is highly recommended.

PURPOSE

This report describes a patient with clinically diagnosed Bietti crystalline dystrophy with findings on funduscopy, multimodal imaging, and visual electrophysiology.

CASE REPORT

A 41-year-old Chinese woman who had subjectively progressing dimmed vision (especially in the left eye) for 9 months was referred to our clinic to test for retinitis pigmentosa. Best-corrected visual acuities were 6/6 and 6/7.6 in the right and left eyes, respectively. Funduscopy revealed multiple crystalline deposits on the posterior pole in both eyes. The 30-2 perimetry displayed bi-inferotemporal scotoma (left > right eye). Scotopic flash electroretinogram (ERG) yielded a normal result, whereas photopic ERG was slightly attenuated. Electro-oculogram showed an abnormal adaptation time course of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE). Multifocal ERG revealed a decreased central retinal response, but paracentral responses were relatively better preserved. Optical coherence tomography showed multiple patches of RPE atrophy, with disruption of the left ellipsoid zone. Outer retinal tubulations, hyperreflective dots on RPE–Bruch's membrane interface, and intraretinal bright spots were also identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Rare ocular diseases like Bietti crystalline dystrophy can be encountered by optometrists. This case report shows the ophthalmic findings of a rare chorioretinal dystrophy and provides insight on how to better use advanced equipment in an optometric practice to facilitate prompt diagnoses.
Training for users of myoelectric multigrip hand prostheses: a scoping review
Authors: Widehammar Cathrine , Lidström Holmqvist Kajsa , Hermansson Liselotte
Published: August 2021

Background:

Training is crucial to develop the ability to operate a myoelectric prosthetic hand and use it in daily life. Multigrip prostheses, with their wider repertoire of functions, require further training. Because studies show that prosthesis abandonment is an issue and the advanced functions are not used to the expected extent, the question of what training should be offered to patients arises. If the available training methods were synthesized, the training could be improved to the benefit of the people who are fitted with a multigrip prosthesis.

Objective:

To critically examine the content of published sources for training of users with myoelectric multigrip hand prostheses.

Study design:

Scoping review.

Methods:

A literature search covering the period 2007–2020 in the databases PubMed, CINAHL, and Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, as well as gray literature from prosthesis manufacturers, identified 2,005 sources. After full-text review of 88 articles and four user manuals from manufacturers, nine sources were included and analyzed in their entirety.

Results:

We found few descriptions of multigrip prosthesis training, and no source described all training phases in detail. Integration of the prosthesis and training in daily activities was described least. Few sources actually described how to perform training in multigrip functions, and none described how to integrate these functions in daily life.

Conclusions:

Existing training instructions for using multigrip prosthetic hands are inadequate, providing poor guidance to clinicians and insufficient training for patients. Further research is needed into the efficiency of various training methods.
Klebsiella Aerogenes Infection on the Costochondral Graft of the Nose
Authors: Choi Jin Mi , Jeong Jae Yong , Jeong Woo Shik
Published: August 2021

Klebsiella aerogenes is a nosocomial and pathogenic bacterium that causes opportunistic infections including most types of infections. After rhinoplasty, the inserted costochondral graft could be a good material for bacterial growth due to less vascularization and difficult-to-reach antibiotics. The unusual bacterial infection should be considered for preventing poor aesthetic results including graft or implant loss when the surgical site infection is uncontrolled despite proper treatment and administration in aesthetic rhinoplasty surgery. The use of appropriate antibiotics for drug sensitivity may be necessary with bacterial culture tests. In this case, an unusual K. aerogenes infection on the costochondral graft of the nose and related treatment course was reported.
The Effects of Dexmedetomidine on Perioperative Neurocognitive Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Singh Amara , Brenna Connor T. A. , Broad Jeremy , Kaustov Lilia , Choi Stephen
Published: August 2021

Objective:

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to examine the effect of DEX on delayed dNCR (cognitive dysfunction ≥ 1 week postoperative) after cardiac surgery.

Background:

DEX has salutary effects on cognitive outcomes following cardiac surgery, however, studies are limited by inconsistent assessment tools, timing, and definitions of dysfunction. It is imperative to identify accurate point estimates of effect of DEX on clinically relevant changes in cognitive function.

Methods:

Randomized trials of adults undergoing cardiac surgery comparing perioperative DEX to placebo or alternate sedation and assessing cognitive function ≥ 1 week postoperative were included. Data was abstracted by three reviewers independently and in parallel according to PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome is dNCR. To classify as dNCR, cognitive function must decrease by at least the minimal clinically important difference or accepted alternate measure (eg, Reliable Change Index ≥1.96). Bias was assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Data was pooled using a random effects model.

Results:

Nine trials (942 participants) were included in qualitative analysis, of which seven were included in the meta-analysis of dNCR. DEX reduced the incidence of dNCR (OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.25–0.61, P < 0.0001) compared to placebo/no DEX. There was no difference in the incidence of delirium (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.35–1.34, P = 0.27) or incidence of hemodynamic instability (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.59–2.18, P = 0.70) associated with perioperative DEX.

Conclusions:

DEX reduced the incidence of dNCR 1 week after cardiac surgery. Although this meta-analysis demonstrates short term cognitive outcomes are improved after cardiac surgery with perioperative DEX, future trials examining long term cognitive outcomes, using robust cognitive assessments, and new perioperative neurocognitive disorders nomenclature with objective diagnostic criteria are necessary.
New developments in cognitive-behavioural therapy for eating disorders (CBT-ED)
Authors: Mulkens Sandra , Waller Glenn
Published: August 2021

Purpose of review

This review summarizes recent developments in cognitive-behavioural therapy for eating disorders (CBT-ED). More specifically, the past five years were covered, with the latest UK and Dutch guidelines for eating disorders as a starting benchmark, and with special consideration of the past 18 months.

Recent findings

The new research can be divided into findings that have: (1) reinforced our existing understanding of CBT-ED's models and impact; (2) advanced our understanding and the utility of CBT-ED, including its application for the ‘new’ disorder Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID); (3) suggested new directions, which require further exploration in clinical and research terms. These include learning from the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.

CBT-ED has developed substantially in the past 5 years, with consolidation of its existing evidence base, further support for real-life implementation, extension of methods used, and the development of new approaches for working with younger people – particularly in the form of treatments for ARFID. Over the past 18 months, even more promising changes in delivery occurred in response to the COVID19 pandemic, showing that we can adapt our methods in order to work effectively via remote means. Challenges remain regarding poor outcomes for anorexia nervosa.
Validation and application of the lattice Boltzmann algorithm for a turbulent immiscible Rayleigh–Taylor system
Authors: Tavares H. S. , Biferale L. , Sbragaglia M. , Mailybaev A. A.
Published: August 2021

We develop a multicomponent lattice Boltzmann (LB) model for the two-dimensional Rayleigh–Taylor turbulence with a Shan–Chen pseudopotential implemented on GPUs. In the immiscible case, this method is able to accurately overcome the inherent numerical complexity caused by the complicated structure of the interface that appears in the fully developed turbulent regime. The accuracy of the LB model is tested both for early and late stages of instability. For the developed turbulent motion, we analyse the balance between different terms describing variations of the kinetic and potential energies. Then we analyse the role of the interface in the energy balance and also the effects of the vorticity induced by the interface in the energy dissipation. Statistical properties are compared for miscible and immiscible flows. Our results can also be considered as a first validation step to extend the application of LB model to three-dimensional immiscible Rayleigh-Taylor turbulence.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Progress in mesoscale methods for fluid dynamics simulation’.
Lattice Boltzmann method investigation of a reactive electro-kinetic flow in porous media: towards a phenomenological model
Authors: Li Haijing , Clercx Herman J. H. , Toschi Federico
Published: August 2021

A model based on the Lattice Boltzmann method is developed to study the flow of reactive electro-kinetic fluids in porous media. The momentum, concentration and electric/potential fields are simulated via the Navier–Stokes, advection–diffusion/Nernst–Planck and Poisson equations, respectively. With this model, the total density and velocity fields, the concentration of reactants and reaction products, including neutral and ionized species, the electric potential and the interaction forces between the fields can be studied, and thus we provide an insight into the interplay between chemistry, flow and the geometry of the porous medium. The results show that the conversion efficiency of the reaction can be strongly influenced by the fluid velocity, reactant concentration and by porosity of the porous medium. The fluid velocity determines how long the reactants stay in the reaction areas, the reactant concentration controls the amount of the reaction material and with different dielectric constant, the porous medium can distort the electric field differently. All these factors make the reaction conversion efficiency display a non-trivial and non-monotonic behaviour as a function of the flow and reaction parameters. To better illustrate the dependence of the reaction conversion efficiency on the control parameters, based on the input from a number of numerical investigations, we developed a phenomenological model of the reactor. This model is capable of capturing the main features of the causal relationship between the performance of the reactor and the main test parameters. Using this model, one could optimize the choice of reaction and flow parameters in order to improve the performance of the reactor and achieve higher production rates.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Progress in mesoscale methods for fluid dynamics simulation’.
Molecular dynamics lattice gas equilibrium distribution function for Lennard–Jones particles
Authors: Pachalieva Aleksandra , Wagner Alexander J.
Published: August 2021

The molecular dynamics lattice gas (MDLG) method maps a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation onto a lattice gas using a coarse-graining procedure. This is a novel fundamental approach to derive the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) by taking a Boltzmann average over the MDLG. A key property of the LBM is the equilibrium distribution function, which was originally derived by assuming that the particle displacements in the MD simulation are Boltzmann distributed. However, we recently discovered that a single Gaussian distribution function is not sufficient to describe the particle displacements in a broad transition regime between free particles and particles undergoing many collisions in one time step. In a recent publication, we proposed a Poisson weighted sum of Gaussians which shows better agreement with the MD data. We derive a lattice Boltzmann equilibrium distribution function from the Poisson weighted sum of Gaussians model and compare it to a measured equilibrium distribution function from MD data and to an analytical approximation of the equilibrium distribution function from a single Gaussian probability distribution function.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Progress in mesoscale methods for fluid dynamics simulation’.
Linear and brute force stability of orthogonal moment multiple-relaxation-time lattice Boltzmann methods applied to homogeneous isotropic turbulence
Authors: Simonis Stephan , Haussmann Marc , Kronberg Louis , Dörfler Willy , Krause Mathias J.
Published: August 2021

Multiple-relaxation-time (MRT) lattice Boltzmann methods (LBM) based on orthogonal moments exhibit lattice Mach number dependent instabilities in diffusive scaling. The present work renders an explicit formulation of stability sets for orthogonal moment MRT LBM. The stability sets are defined via the spectral radius of linearized amplification matrices of the MRT collision operator with variable relaxation frequencies. Numerical investigations are carried out for the three-dimensional Taylor–Green vortex benchmark at Reynolds number 1600. Extensive brute force computations of specific relaxation frequency ranges for the full test case are opposed to the von Neumann stability set prediction. Based on that, we prove numerically that a scan over the full wave space, including scaled mean flow variations, is required to draw conclusions on the overall stability of LBM in turbulent flow simulations. Furthermore, the von Neumann results show that a grid dependence is hardly possible to include in the notion of linear stability for LBM. Lastly, via brute force stability investigations based on empirical data from a total number of 22 696 simulations, the existence of a deterministic influence of the grid resolution is deduced.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Progress in mesoscale methods for fluid dynamics simulation’.
Microscale modelling of dielectrophoresis assembly processes
Authors: Tiribocchi A. , Montessori A. , Lauricella M. , Bonaccorso F. , Brown K. A. , Succi S.
Published: August 2021

This work presents a microscale approach for simulating the dielectrophoresis assembly of polarizable particles under an external electric field. The model is shown to capture interesting dynamical and topological features, such as the formation of chains of particles and their incipient aggregation into hierarchical structures. A quantitative characterization in terms of the number and size of these structures is also discussed. This computational model could represent a viable numerical tool to study the mechanical properties of particle-based hierarchical materials and suggest new strategies for enhancing their design and manufacture.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Progress in mesoscale methods for fluid dynamics simulation’.
Molecular dynamics of ionic polymer-metal composites
Authors: Truszkowska A. , Porfiri M.
Published: August 2021

Ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) constitute a promising class of soft, active materials with potentially ubiquitous use in science and engineering. Realizing the full potential of IPMCs calls for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underpinning their most intriguing characteristics: the ability to deform under an electric field and the generation of a voltage upon mechanical deformation. These behaviours are tightly linked to physical phenomena at the level of atoms, including rearrangements of ions and molecules, along with the formation of sub-nanometre thick double layers on the surface of the metal electrodes. Several continuum theories have been developed to describe these phenomena, but their experimental and theoretical validation remains incomplete. IPMC modelling at the atomistic scale could beget valuable support for these efforts, by affording granular analysis of individual atoms. Here, we present a simplified atomistic model of IPMCs based on classical molecular dynamics. The three-dimensional IPMC membrane is constrained by two smooth walls, a simplified analogue of metal electrodes, impermeable only to counterions. The electric field is applied as an additional force acting on all the atoms. We demonstrate the feasibility of simulating counterions’ migration and pile-up upon the application of an electric field, similar to experimental observations. By analysing the spatial configuration of atoms and stress distribution, we identify two mechanisms for stress generation. The presented model offers new insight into the physical underpinnings of actuation and sensing in IPMCs.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Progress in mesoscale methods for fluid dynamics simulation’.
Intramuscular SARS-CoV-2 vaccines elicit varying degrees of plasma and salivary antibody responses as compared to natural infection
Authors: Nahass George Ronald , Salomon-Shulman Rachel E. , Blacker Grace , Haider Kazim , Brotherton Rich , Teague Kristine , Yiu Ying Ying , Brewer Rachel E. , Galloway Sarah Danielle , Hansen Paige , Marquez-Arreguin Gabriel , Sheikh-Mohamed Salma , Chao Gary Y.C. , Isho Baweleta , Do Evan , Chang Iris , Snow Theo , Lee Alexandra S. ,   STANFORD COVID-19 BIOBANK, Manohar Monali , Yang Samuel , Blomkalns Andra L. , Rogers Angela J , McGeer Allison , Gingras Anne-Claude , Straus Sharon , Grant Phillip , Nadeau Kari C. , Blish Catherine A. , Gommerman Jennifer L. , Sanders Erin C. , Weissman Irving L. , Tal Michal Caspi
Published: August 2021

Vaccination induced antibody and T-cell immune responses are important for systemic protection from COVID-19. Because SARS-CoV-2 infects and is transmitted by oral-pharyngeal mucosa, we wished to test mucosal antibodies elicited by natural infection or intramuscular vaccine injection. In a non-randomized observational study, we measured antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 RBD in plasma and saliva from convalescent or vaccinated individuals and tested their neutralizing potential using a replication competent rVSV-eGFP-SARS-CoV-2. We found IgG and IgA anti-RBD antibodies as well as neutralizing activity in convalescent plasma and saliva. Two doses of mRNA vaccination (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273) induced high levels of IgG anti-RBD in saliva, a subset of whom also had IgA, and significant neutralizing activity. We detected anti-RBD IgG and IgA with significant neutralizing potential in the plasma of single dose Ad26.COV2.S vaccinated individuals, and we detected slight amounts of anti-RBD antibodies in matched saliva. The role of salivary antibodies in protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection is unknown and merits further investigation. This study was not designed to, nor did it study the full kinetics of the antibody response or protection from infection, nor did it address variants of SARS-CoV-2.
The Association Between Platelet Transfusion and Mortality Rate Among Preterm Neonates in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhamad Fatimah Abdullah , Hussien Ahlam Mohammed , Alqahtani Friyal Mubarak
Published: August 2021

Platelet transfusion is the main mode of management of thrombocytopenia. However, some studies link frequent and high-threshold platelet transfusions with an incremental increase of mortality rate.

Aim

This study aims to assess the association between the frequency and the threshold of platelet transfusions, with the mortality rate among preterm neonates.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study design was used. This study was conducted at maternity and children’s hospitals in Al-Ahasa, Saudi Arabia. The sample size includes 154 preterm neonates, included in the study by the use of the convenience sampling technique.

Result

There is a significant relationship found between the gestational age and the birth weight of the preterm neonates with the survival rates among both groups. In contrast, there is no significant relationship found between transfusion frequency, transfusion threshold, and the survival rates of the group which received platelet transfusion.

Implications for Practice and Research

The current study found that mortality is mainly associated with lower gestational ages, and not platelet transfusions. More studies are needed to fill the remaining gaps of knowledge, and to optimise platelet transfusion practices among preterm neonates.
Whole-genome analysis of monozygotic twins discordant for type 1 narcolepsy
Authors: Campos João H. , Aguilar Ana C. R. , Antoneli Fernando , Truzzi Giselle , Briones Marcelo R. S. , Ferreira Renata C. , Coelho Fernando M. S.
Published: August 2021

Narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) is a rare and chronic neurological disease characterized by sudden sleep attacks, overwhelming daytime drowsiness, and cataplexy. To contribute to the understanding of NT1 genetic causes, here we describe a whole-genome analysis of a monozygotic twin pair discordant for NT1. Our study revealed that although both twins have the same pathogenic mutations in NT1 associated genes (such as HLA-DQB1*06:02:01, HLA-DRB1*11:01:02/*15:03:01) the unaffected twin has mutations in genes outside the HLA loci that could be suppressing the NT1 phenotype. These results support the notion that NT1 has an immunological basis but that protective mutations in non-HLA might interfere with the clinical manifestation of the disease.
Expansion, persistence and efficacy of donor memory-like NK cells for the treatment of post-transplant relapse
Authors: Shapiro Roman M. , Birch Grace , Vergara Juliana , Hu Guangan , Nikiforow Sarah , Baginska Joanna , Ali Alaa , Tarannum Mubin , Rambaldi Benedetta , Arihara Yohei , Reynolds Carol , Halpern Max , Rodig Scott , Cullen Nicole , Lane Andrew A. , Lindsley R. Coleman , Cutler Corey S. , Antin Joseph H. , Ho Vincent T. , Koreth John , Gooptu Mahasweta , Kim Haesook T. , Malmberg Karl-Johan , Wu Catherine J. , Chen Jianzhu , Soiffer Robert J. , Ritz Jerome , Romee Rizwan
Published: August 2021

Background

Responses to conventional donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) for post-allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) relapse are typically poor. Natural killer (NK) cell-based therapy is a promising modality to treat post-HCT relapse.

Methods

We initiated this ongoing phase 1 trial of adoptively transferred cytokine induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells in patients with myeloid malignancies relapsed after haploidentical HCT. All patients received a donor-derived NK cell dose of 5-10 × million cells/kg after lymphodepleting chemotherapy, followed by systemic IL-2 for 7 doses. High resolution profiling with mass cytometry and single cell RNA sequencing characterized the expanding and persistent NK cells subpopulations in a longitudinal manner after infusion. In vitro functional studies of infused CIML NK cells were complemented with in vivo evaluation of NK trafficking to disease sites using multiparameter immunofluorescence.

Results

In the first 5 patients on the trial, infusion of CIML NK cells led to a rapid 10 to 50-fold in vivo expansion that was sustained over months. The infusion was well-tolerated, with fever and pancytopenia as the most common adverse events. Responses were attained in 4 of 5 patients at day +28. Immunophenotypic and transcriptional profiling revealed a dynamic evolution of the activated CIML NK cell phenotype, superimposed on the natural variation in donor NK cell repertoires. AML relapse after initial response to CIML NK cell therapy was associated with low transcript expression of CD2 ligands, including CD48/SLAMF2 and CD58/LFA3.

Conclusion

Given their rapid expansion and long-term persistence in an immune compatible environment, CIML NK cells serve as a promising platform for the treatment of post-transplant relapse of myeloid disease. Further characterization of their unique in vivo biology and interaction with both T-cells and tumor targets will lead to the development of novel cell-based immunotherapies.
Timing and magnitude of climate driven range shifts in transboundary fish stocks challenge their management
Authors: Palacios-Abrantes Juliano , Frölicher Thomas L. , Reygondeau Gabriel , Rashid Sumaila U. , Tagliabue Alessandro , Wabnitz Colette C.C. , Cheung William W.L.
Published: August 2021

Climate change is shifting the distribution of shared fish stocks between neighboring countries’ Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and the high seas. The timescale of these transboundary shifts determines how climate change will affect international fisheries governance. Coupling a large ensemble simulation of an Earth system model to a species distribution model, we show that by 2030, 23% of transboundary stocks would have shifted and 78% of the world EEZs will experience at least one shifting stock under a high emission climate change scenario. By the end of this century, 81% of EEZ waters will see at least one shifting stock with a total of 45% of stocks shifting globally, under a high emissions scenario. Importantly, many countries that are highly dependent on fisheries for income, food and nutrition security, as well as livelihoods emerge as hotspots for transboundary shifts showing early, and sometimes past shifts. Existing fisheries agreements need to be assessed for their capacity in addressing transboundary shifts, and strengthened where necessary to limit conflict over these fish stocks while new agreements are urged to considere this problematic in order to be resilient to global change.
Time In Range, as measured by continuous glucose monitor, as a predictor of microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes– A systemic review
Authors: Raj Rishi , Mishra Rahul , Jha Nivedita , Joshi Vivek , Correa Riccardo , Kern Philip A.
Published: August 2021

Aim

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) derived times in range (TIR) correlates with hemoglobin A1c (A1c) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, there is a paucity of data evaluating its association with microvascular complications. We conducted this systematic review to examine the association between TIR and microvascular complications of diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic nephropathy (DN) and peripheral diabetic neuropathy (DPN).

Method

We conducted a comprehensive literature search on online database of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Full texts original articles that evaluated association between CGM-derived TIR and risk of microvascular complications which were published between 2010 and June 2021, were included in our systematic review. The quality of included studies were evaluated using National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. Data were analyzed using qualitative synthesis.

Result

Eleven studies were included in the systematic review. The mean sample size, baseline A1c, and diabetes duration were 1271 (105-5901), 8.2 % (SD 0.5 %) and 11.3 years, respectively. Majority of studies were conducted in Asia (10 out 11). Four studies evaluated the relationship between CGM-derived TIR and DR and CGM-derived TIR and DN, while seven studies evaluated the relationship between CGM-derived TIR and DPN. A 10 % increase in TIR was associated with a reduction in albuminuria, severity of diabetic retinopathy, and prevalence of diabetic peripheral nephropathy and cardiac autonomic neuropathy. In addition, an association was observed between urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio but not with estimated glomerular filtration rate.

Conclusion

This review summarizes recent evidence supporting an association between CGM-derived TIR and microvascular complications among patients with T2DM. A larger□scale multi-center investigation that includes more diverse participants is warranted to further validate the utility of TIR as a predictor for diabetic microvascular complications.
Resting-state network topology characterizing callous-unemotional traits in adolescence
Authors: Winters Drew E. , Sakai Joseph T. , Carter R. McKell
Published: August 2021

Background

Callous-unemotional (CU) traits, a youth antisocial phenotype, are hypothesized to associate with aberrant connectivity (dis-integration) across the salience (SAL), default mode (DMN), and frontoparietal (FPN) networks. However, CU traits have a heterogeneous presentation and previous research has not modeled individual heterogeneity in resting-state connectivity amongst adolescents with CU traits. The present study models individual-specific network maps and examines topological features of individual and subgroup maps in relation to CU traits.

Methods

Participants aged 13-17 completed resting-state functional connectivity and the inventory of callous-unemotional traits as part of the Nathan Klein Rockland study. A sparse network approach (GIMME) was used to derive individual-level and subgroup maps of all participants. We then examined heterogeneous network features associated with CU traits.

Results

Higher rates of CU traits increased probability of inclusion in one subgroup, which had the highest mean level of CU traits. Analysis of network features reveals less density within the FPN and greater density between DMN-FPN associated with CU traits.

Discussion

Findings indicate heterogeneous person-specific connections and some subgroup connections amongst adolescents associate with CU traits. Higher CU traits associate with lower density in the FPN, which has been associated with attention and inhibition, and higher density between the DMN-FPN, which have been linked with cognitive control, social working memory, and empathy. Our findings suggest less efficiency in FPN function which, when considered mechanistically, could result in difficulty suppressing DMN when task positive networks are engaged. This is an area for further exploration but could explain cognitive and socio-affective impairments in CU traits.