bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological Survey on the Perception of Adverse Effects in Women Using Contraceptive Methods in Brazil
Authors: Pannain Gabriel Duque , Brum Vivian de Oliveira Rodrigues , Abreu Maria Mariana Andrade , Lima Gabriela Barbosa
Published: January 2022

Objective The present study aimed to understand patient perception of the adverse effects of contraceptives to improve health care and adherence to treatment.

Methods An online questionnaire was available for women in Brazil to respond to assess their perception of adverse effects and their relationship with contraceptive methods.

Results Of all 536 women who responded, 346 (64.6%) reported current contraceptive use. One hundred and twenty-two (122–34.8%) women reported having already stopped using contraception because of the adverse effects. As for the contraceptive method used, the most frequent was the combined oral contraceptive (212–39.6%). When we calculated the relative risk for headache, there was a relative risk of 2.1282 (1.3425–3.3739; 95% CI), suggesting that the use of pills increases the risk of headache, as well as edema, in which a relative risk of 1.4435 (1.0177–2.0474; 95% CI) was observed. For low libido, the use of oral hormonal contraceptives was also shown to be a risk factor since its relative risk was 1.8805 (1.3527–2.6142; 95% CI). As for acne, the use of hormonal contraceptives proved to be a protective factor, with a relative risk of 0.3015 (0.1789–0.5082; 95% CI).

Conclusion The choice of a contraceptive method must always be individualized, and the patients must be equal participants in the process knowing the expected benefits and harms of each method and hormone, when present.
The life and death of confidentiality: a historical analysis of the flows of patient information
Authors: Wadmann Sarah , Hartlev Mette , Hoeyer Klaus
Published: January 2022

Health data can contain sensitive information. People who consult a doctor seek help on issues that matter to them: they typically expect some form of confidentiality. However, the notion and practices of confidentiality have changed dramatically over time. In this article, we trace the history of confidentiality in the Danish healthcare system, which has one of the world’s most integrated patient information infrastructures. Building on an analysis of legal and political documents dating back to the late seventeenth century, we show that confidentiality originated as a social phenomenon that helped build trust in healthcare professionals and gradually developed into an idiom of citizens rights. Lately, confidentiality has given way to more technocratic forms of data protection. As the political, legal and technological reality, which the idea of confidentiality once referred to, has radically changed, we argue that confidentiality has become what Ulrik Beck has called a ‘zombie category’—a notion that lives on even if its content has passed away. If confidentiality has become a zombie concept, we suggest it is time to discuss what may take its place so that patient interests are protected in the current political economy of health data.
Open extent IV thoracoabdominal aneurysm repair: 22-year experience of the Scottish National Service
Authors: Forsythe Rachael O , Eng Calvin , Roy Chloe , Cafferkey John , Clinch Darja , Ventham Nicholas , Tambyraja Andrew L , Burns Phillipa J , Falah Orwa , Chalmers Roderick T A
Published: January 2022

Background

Since 1999, the Scottish National Service for Thoracoabdominal Aneurysms has offered repair of thoracoabdominal aneurysms (TAAAs) to a population of 5.5 million people. The open operation most commonly performed by the service is the extent IV TAAA repair.

Methods

All extent IV open TAAA repairs performed at the Scottish National Service for TAAAs from June 1999 until April 2021 were evaluated for clinical features, technical details, and clinical outcomes. The primary outcome measure was 30-day mortality; secondary outcomes included short-term (90 days, 6 months, 1 and 2 years) and long-term (5 and 10 years) survival, perioperative complications, and reintervention. Survival was assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

Some 248 patients underwent extent IV TAAA repair, with elective surgery in 204 (82.3 per cent). A totally abdominal transperitoneal approach was used for all patients, with a median visceral ischaemia time of 40 (i.q.r. 35–48) min. Overall, 18 patients (7.3 per cent) died within 30 days. The proportion of patients surviving at 90 days, 6 months, 1, 2, 5, and 10 years was 0.91, 0.90, 0.89, 0.85, 0.72, and 0.41, respectively. Ten patients (4.0 per cent) required a reintervention while in hospital, four (1.6 per cent) experienced permanent spinal cord ischaemia, 19 (7.9 per cent) required temporary renal replacement therapy (RRT), and four (1.6 per cent) required permanent RRT.

Conclusion

Open extent IV TAAA repair performed in a high-volume national centre is associated with favourable short- and long-term survival, and acceptable complication rates.
A Novel Stability Indicating RP-HPLC Method for Simultaneous Quantification of Serdexmethylphenidate and Dexmethylphenidate in Fixed Dosage Form
Authors: Gollu Gowri , Gummadi Sowjanya
Published: January 2022

A simple, robust stability indicating RP-HPLC method was developed for simultaneous quantification of serdexmethyl phenidate and dexmethyl phenidate in a fixed capsule dosage form. This is the first method to be reported for simultaneous estimation and quantification of degradation products produced from forced stressing of the dosage form as per ICH guidelines. The chromatographic separation was attained on Waters X-terra C18 column using a mixture of trifluoro acetic acid and acetonitrile (70:30 v/v) as mobile phase with a flow rate of 1 mL, monitored at 265 nm over a run time of 10 min. Serdexmethyl phenidate and dexmethyl phenidate were eluted with retention times of 2.71 min and 7.33 min, respectively. The method displayed linear responses in the range of 4.2–63 μg/mL (0.9994) for serdexmethyl phenidate and 0.9 to 3.5 μg/mL (0.9998) for dexmethyl phenidate, respectively. The percentage recoveries of the two drugs were found within the acceptable limits. Forced degradation was conducted and showed considerable degradation in various stress conditions. It also confirms the specificity of the method as no interference peaks were observed concerning for to stress products. This method can be routinely used in quality control labs for simultaneous determination of respective drugs in marketed dosage form.
Early glomerular filtration rate changes in living kidney donors and recipients: an example of renal plasticity
Authors: Rinne Ana González , Sorensen Cristian Acosta , Lima Sergio Luis , Gil Marta Gómez , Mena Natalia Negrín , Martín Laura Díaz , Ramírez Ana , Morales Adelaida , Vega Nicanor , Gallego Eduardo , Izquierdo Edduin Martín , Cabello Elisa , Rodríguez Ana Elena Rodríguez , González Jesús Pimentel , Escamilla Beatriz , Cruz Coriolano , Tamajón Lourdes Pérez , Ramírez Armando Torres , Gaspari Flavio , Ortiz Alberto , Porrini Esteban
Published: January 2022

Background

In living kidney transplantation there are two different individuals, a healthy donor and a renal transplant recipient. This is an excellent human model to study factors that influence kidney function in the context of reduced renal mass and the adaptation of two comparable kidneys to different metabolic demands.

Methods

We analyzed the changes in measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR, iohexol) from pretransplantation to 12 months after transplantation in 30 donor–recipient pairs. Each donor was compared with his/her recipient. We defined a priori three different groups based on GFR differences at 12 months: donor > recipient (Group A; 78 ± 8 versus 57 ± 8 mL/min), donor < recipient (Group B; 65 ± 11 versus 79 ± 11 mL/min) and donor ≈ recipient (Group C; 66 ± 7 versus 67 ± 7 mL/min). Other factors like donor/recipient mismatches in body mass index (BMI), surface area and gender were evaluated.

Results

In Group A donors were mostly male and recipients were female (75% each). Donors had a higher baseline weight than their recipients. During follow-up, weight remained stable in donors but increased 7% in recipients. In Group B donors were mostly female (60%) and recipients male. At baseline, donors had a lower weight than recipients. At 12 months, weight was stable in donors but increased in recipients. In Group C donors were mostly (75%) female and recipients male. At baseline, donors had a higher BMI than their recipients. At 12 months, BMI was stable in donors but increased 14% in recipients. In multivariable analysis, higher GFR at 12 months was associated with higher baseline weight and GFR in donors and with male gender and higher baseline weight in recipients.

Conclusions

Kidneys from living donors are more ‘plastic’ than originally thought and respond to metabolic demands and weight changes of their new host. These changes should be taken into account when assessing GFR outcomes in this population.
GNIFdb: a neoantigen intrinsic feature database for glioma
Authors: Li Wendong , Sun Ting , Li Muyang , He Yufei , Li Lin , Wang Lu , Wang Haoyu , Li Jing , Wen Hao , Liu Yong , Chen Yifan , Fan Yubo , Xin Beibei , Zhang Jing
Published: January 2022

Neoantigens are mutation-containing immunogenic peptides from tumor cells. Neoantigen intrinsic features are neoantigens’ sequence-associated features characterized by different amino acid descriptors and physical–chemical properties, which have a crucial function in prioritization of neoantigens with immunogenic potentials and predicting patients with better survival. Different intrinsic features might have functions to varying degrees in evaluating neoantigens’ potentials of immunogenicity. Identification and comparison of intrinsic features among neoantigens are particularly important for developing neoantigen-based personalized immunotherapy. However, there is still no public repository to host the intrinsic features of neoantigens. Therefore, we developed GNIFdb, a glioma neoantigen intrinsic feature database specifically designed for hosting, exploring and visualizing neoantigen and intrinsic features. The database provides a comprehensive repository of computationally predicted Human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I) restricted neoantigens and their intrinsic features; a systematic annotation of neoantigens including sequence, neoantigen-associated mutation, gene expression, glioma prognosis, HLA-I subtype and binding affinity between neoantigens and HLA-I; and a genome browser to visualize them in an interactive manner. It represents a valuable resource for the neoantigen research community and is publicly available at http://www.oncoimmunobank.cn/index.php.

Database URL

http://www.oncoimmunobank.cn/index.php
China’s Antitrust Probe into the Platform Economy – A Comment on the Alibaba Decision
Authors: Xiao Yukun
Published: January 2022

China’s competition authority imposed a record fine against the largest domestic online platform operator Alibaba. The decision concludes that Alibaba abused its dominant position in the market for online retail platform services by prohibiting merchants from selling or participating in promotional events on rival platforms. This article provides an overview of the grounds of the decision and a detailed analysis in the context of China’s anti-monopoly regulations and guidelines for the platform sector. The Alibaba decision is well-structured and reasoned, but also leaves some open questions in its competitive assessment. In addition to the fine, the competition authority issued a guidance letter to Alibaba and initiated a three-year-long compliance monitoring. The penalty decision also has an industry-wide deterrent impact through the follow-up administrative supervisory meeting with major platform operators. The Alibaba decision marks a turning point in China’s antitrust interventions in the platform economy in the shift from a very tolerant and cautious approach towards a more proactive and stringent one.
The Neglected Gut Microbiome: Fungi, Protozoa, and Bacteriophages in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Guzzo Gina L , Andrews Jane M , Weyrich Laura S
Published: January 2022

The gut microbiome has been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Studies suggest that the IBD gut microbiome is less diverse than that of the unaffected population, a phenomenon often referred to as dysbiosis. However, these studies have heavily focused on bacteria, while other intestinal microorganisms—fungi, protozoa, and bacteriophages—have been neglected. Of the nonbacterial microbes that have been studied in relation to IBD, most are thought to be pathogens, although there is evidence that some of these species may instead be harmless commensals. In this review, we discuss the nonbacterial gut microbiome of IBD, highlighting the current biases, limitations, and outstanding questions that can be addressed with high-throughput DNA sequencing methods. Further, we highlight the importance of studying nonbacterial microorganisms alongside bacteria for a comprehensive view of the whole IBD biome and to provide a more precise definition of dysbiosis in patients. With the rise in popularity of microbiome-altering therapies for the treatment of IBD, such as fecal microbiota transplantation, it is important that we address these knowledge gaps to ensure safe and effective treatment of patients.
Natural Herbal Remedy Wumei Decoction Ameliorates Intestinal Mucosal Inflammation by Inhibiting Th1/Th17 Cell Differentiation and Maintaining Microbial Homeostasis
Authors: Wu Xiaohan , Chen Huimin , Gao Xiang , Gao Han , He Qiong , Li Gengfeng , Yao Jun , Liu Zhanju
Published: January 2022

Background

Evidence has shown that the traditional Chinese herbal medicine Wumei decoction (WMD) has a protective effect on ulcerative colitis. Here, we studied the anti-inflammatory effects and potential mechanisms of WMD on chronic colitis in mice.

Methods

A dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)–induced chronic colitis model and CD45RBhighCD4+ T cell transfer model were established in mice. Body weight, Disease Activity Index, and colon length were assessed, and histopathology was confirmed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Colon tissue samples were collected to detect the frequencies of various immune cells, expression of cytokines, and tight junction–related proteins using flow cytometry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing was performed to distinguish differential microbiota of fecal samples.

Results

Severe chronic colitis was observed in mice after DSS exposure and in Rag1-/- mice reconstituted with CD45RBhighCD4+ T cells, as manifested by weight loss, hematochezia, and shortening and thickening of the colon, which were reversed by WMD treatment. WMD markedly suppressed intestinal mucosal CD4+ T cell differentiation and the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines (eg, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-1β, interferon γ, and IL-17A) by flow cytometry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Moreover, WMD promoted the expression of occludin, zonula occludens-1, and E-cadherin, thereby maintaining the epithelial barrier function. Additionally, 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing revealed that WMD regulated the dysbiosis of gut microbiota in CD45RBhighCD4+ T cell-reconstituted Rag1-/- mice, evidenced by an increase of Allobaculum and Bacteroides and a decrease of Ileibacterium.

Conclusions

WMD ameliorates chronic colitis in mice induced by DSS or reconstituted with CD45RBhighCD4+ T cells through suppressing Th1/Th17 cell differentiation and the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, maintaining epithelial barrier function, and improving the dysbiosis.
Identifying species complexes based on spatial and temporal clustering from joint dynamic species distribution models
Authors: Omori Kristen L , Thorson James T
Published: January 2022

Data-limited species are often grouped into a species complex to simplify management. Commonalities between species that may indicate if species can be adequately managed as a complex include the following: shared habitat utilization (e.g., overlapping fine-scale spatial distribution), synchrony in abundance trends, consistent fishing pressure or gear susceptibility, or life history parameters resulting in similar productivity. Using non-target rockfish species in the Gulf of Alaska as a case study, we estimate spatial and temporal similarities among species to develop species complexes using the vector autoregressive spatio-temporal (VAST) model, which is a joint dynamic species distribution model. Species groupings are identified using Ward's hierarchical cluster analysis based on spatial and temporal species correlations. We then compare the spatial and temporal groupings with cluster analysis groupings that use exploitation and life history characteristics data. Based on the results, we conclude that there are some rockfish species that consistently group together, but the arrangement and number of clusters differ slightly depending on the data used. Developing species complexes for fisheries management requires a variety of analytical approaches including species distribution models and cluster analyses, and these can be applied across the full extent of available data sources.
Self-reported sexually transmitted infections among adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Dadzie Louis Kobina , Agbaglo Ebenezer , Okyere Joshua , Aboagye Richard Gyan , Arthur-Holmes Francis , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku
Published: January 2022

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affect individuals of all ages, but adolescent girls and young women are disproportionately affected. We examined the prevalence and factors associated with self-reported STIs (SR-STIs) among adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

Demographic and Health Survey data of 27 sub-Saharan African countries were used for the study. The sample size comprised 68944 adolescent girls and young women (15–24 y of age). The outcome variable was SR-STIs. Multilevel binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with SR-STIs.

Results

On average, the prevalence of SR-STIs among adolescent girls and young women in SSA was 6.92%. The likelihood of SR-STIs was higher among young women aged 20–24 y (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.36 [confidence interval {CI} 1.27 to 1.46]), those not married (aOR 1.64 [CI 1.51 to 1.79]), those working (aOR 1.20 [CI 1.12 to 1.27]), those whose age at first sex was ≤19 y (aOR 1.99 [CI 1.80 to 2.20]), those with two or more sex partners (aOR 1.56 [CI 1.35 to 1.80]), those who listened to radio (aOR 1.26 [CI 1.17 to 1.35]), those in urban areas (aOR 1.42 [CI 1.30 to 1.51]) and those with a wealth index of rich (aOR 1.28 [CI 1.17 to 1.40]) compared with their counterparts. In contrast, those with a primary (aOR 0.86 [CI 0.78 to 0.94]) or secondary/higher level of education (aOR 0.83 [CI 0.75 to 0.92]) compared with those with no formal education and those who were exposed to television (aOR 0.90 [CI 0.84 to 0.98]) compared with those who were not exposed were less likely to report STIs.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the need for countries in SSA to commit towards reducing the incidence of STIs. Community-based health educational programs are required to intensify the awareness of STIs and their prevention in various sub-Saharan African countries considering the factors that expose adolescent girls and young women to STIs.
Law Enforcement and Bargaining over Illicit Drug Prices: Structural Evidence from a Gang’s Ledger
Authors: Leong Kaiwen , Li Huailu , Rysman Marc , Walsh Christoph
Published: January 2022

We estimate a structural model of bargaining between a branch of a large transnational gang and pushers using data from detailed records kept by the gang. The model allows for the gang’s relative bargaining power to differ for pushers with different characteristics, such as those with addictions or borrowing problems. Exploiting supply shocks in our data, we use the estimated model to study the effectiveness of various enforcement strategies. We find that targeting pushers is more effective at reducing quantities sold compared to targeting the gang’s upstream supply chain.
Enhanced Excito-Repellency of Binary Mixtures of Plant-Based Mosquito Repellents Against Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae), a Night Biting Mosquito Species
Authors: Boonyuan Wasana , Ahebwa Alex , Nararak Jirod , Sathantriphop Sunaiyana , Chareonviriyaphap Theeraphap
Published: January 2022

Efficacies of essential oils (EOs) of Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash. (Poales: Poaceae) (VZ EO), Cananga odorata (Lam) Hook. F. & Thomson (Magnoliales: Annonaceae) (CO EO), and crude extract (CE) of Andrographis paniculata (Burm.F.) Wall ex. Nees (Lamiales: Acanthaceae) (AP CE), against laboratory (lab) and field strains of Culex quinquefasciatus Say were investigated. Irritant and repellent activities of individual and binary mixtures of plant extracts were compared with N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) using an excito-repellency system. The irritant activity (direct tarsal contact), the mean percent escape response of VZ EO (91.67%, 83.33%), and CO EO (80%, 88.33%) were not significantly different compared with DEET (88.33%, 95%) against lab and field strains, respectively. Similarly, irritant responses in combinations (1:1 and 1:2, v:v) of either VZ EO or CO EO with AP CE were not significantly different from DEET against both strains (P > 0.001). The repellent activity (no tarsal contact), the mean percent escape response of VZ EO (68.33%), CO EO (61.67%), and VZ EO+AP CE (1:1, v:v) (81.67%) against lab strain and CO EO (85%) against field strain were not significantly different from that of DEET (P > 0.001). Interestingly, the greatest contact irritancy of VZ EO+AP CE (1:1, v:v) (96.67%) (P = 0.0026) and a stronger repellency response of CO EO (85%) (P = 0.0055) produced significantly different patterns of escape response compared with DEET against both lab and field strains, respectively. The EOs of VZ EO and CO EO or their mixture with AP CE showed potential as plant-based active ingredients for mosquito repellents. In addition, the major chemical constituents of VZ EO were β-vetivone (6.4%), khusimol (2.96%), and α-vetivone (2.94%) by gas chromatograpy–mass spectrometry.
Narrowing Insurance Disparities Among Children and Adolescents With Cancer Following the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Ji Xu , Hu Xin , Castellino Sharon M , Mertens Ann C , Yabroff K Robin , Han Xuesong
Published: January 2022

Despite advances toward universal health insurance coverage for children, coverage gaps remain. Using a nationwide sample of pediatric and adolescent cancer patients from the National Cancer Database, we examined effects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) implementation in 2014 with multinomial logistic regressions to evaluate insurance changes between 2010-2013 (pre-ACA) and 2014-2017 (post-ACA) in patients aged younger than 18 years (n = 63 377). All statistical tests were 2-sided. Following the ACA, the overall percentage of Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program–covered patients increased (from 35.1% to 36.9%; adjusted absolute percentage change [APC] = 2.01 percentage points [ppt], 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.31 to 2.71; P < .001), partly offset by declined percentage of privately insured (from 62.7% to 61.2%; adjusted APC = −1.67 ppt, 95% CI = −2.37 to −0.97; P < .001), leading to a reduction by 15% in uninsured status (from 2.2% to 1.9%; adjusted APC = −0.34 ppt, 95% CI = −0.56 to −0.12 ppt; P = .003). The largest declines in uninsured status were observed among Hispanic patients (by 23%; adjusted APC = −0.95 ppt, 95% CI = −1.67 to −0.23 ppt; P = .009) and patients residing in low-income areas (by 35%; adjusted APC = −1.22 ppt, 95% CI = −2.22 to −0.21 ppt; P = .02). We showed nationwide insurance gains among pediatric and adolescent cancer patients following ACA implementation, with greater gains in racial and ethnic minorities and those living in low-income areas.
Stumpage Price Distributions and Correlations and Their Impact On Timberland Investment Modeling: An Analysis Using Maine Stumpage Prices (1961–2017)
Authors: Eckardt Rory , Lutz Jack , MacKay Donald G , McKeever Daniel
Published: January 2022

This paper analyzes more than 55 years of Maine stumpage prices and finds that the normal distribution does not best characterize many of the primary species and products located in the state. Nontrivial correlations are also identified among many of the species and product stumpage prices. The implications of these findings are discussed for the value of species and age diversification and the use of financial simulations to assess projected return distributions from timberland investments. Specifically, we look at two hypothetical timberland investment scenarios with varying amounts of species and age diversification and demonstrate the differences in the projected return distributions timber analysts would obtain with simple (normal distribution and independence) versus data-based (best-fit distributions and correlations) assumptions.
A simulation on coevolution between language and multiple cognitive abilities
Authors: Gong Tao , Shuai Lan , Yang Xiaolong
Published: January 2022

We propose a coevolution scenario between language and two cognitive abilities, namely shared intentionality and lexical memory, under a conceptual framework that integrates biological evolution of language learners and cultural evolution of communal language among language users. Piggybacking on a well-attested agent-based model on the origin of simple lexicon and constituent word order out of holistic utterances, we demonstrate: (1) once adopted by early hominins to handle preliminary linguistic materials, along with the origin of an evolving communal language having a high mutual understandability among language users, the initially low levels of the two cognitive abilities are boosted and get ratcheted at sufficiently high levels in language users for proficient language learning and use; (2) the socio-cultural environment is indispensable for the coevolution, and natural selection (selecting highly understandable adults to produce offspring), not cultural selection (choosing highly understandable adults to teach offspring), drives the coevolution. This work modifies existing models and theories of coevolution between language and human cognition and clarifies theoretical controversies regarding the roles of natural and cultural selections on language evolution.
What’s your poison? Cyanide production regulated by a bHLH transcription factor inLotus japonicus
Authors: Rosati Viviana C
Published: January 2022

Humans hold a love–hate relationship with cyanogenic plants. Preferentially selected for domestication due to their heightened pest resistance, they can nevertheless threaten both human and livestock health if not consumed in moderation or adequately processed. Over 20% of crops are cyanogenic due to the stable accumulation of cyanogenic glucosides (CNglcs) and, while the biochemical pathways of these specialized metabolites are known, the same cannot be said regarding their underlying molecular pathways. In a comprehensive study, Chen et al. (2022) characterized a basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) transcription factor that is responsive to methyl jasmonate and directly induces expression of the key CNglc biosynthetic gene in the model species Lotus japonicus.
Seimei KOOLS-IFU mapping of the gas and dust distributions in Galactic planetary nebulae: the case of IC 2165
Authors: Otsuka Masaaki
Published: January 2022

We investigated the physical and chemical properties of the gas and dust components in a carbon-rich planetary nebula (PN) IC 2165 using two-dimensional emission-line maps with superior resolution. The extinction map is generated in a self-consistent and assumption-free manner. The circumstellar gas-to-dust mass ratio (GDR) map ranges radially from 1210 in the central nebula filled with hot gas plasma to 120 near the ionization front. The determined GDR is comparable to ∼400, which is commonly adopted for carbon-rich asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars, and ∼100 for interstellar medium. Except for the inner regions, the GDR in IC 2165 is nearly the same as in such AGB stars, indicating that most dust grains withstand the harsh radiation field without being destroyed. The gas and dust mass distributions concentrated in the equatorial plane may be related to the non-isotropic mass loss during the AGB phase and nebula shaping. The spatial distributions of electron densities/temperatures and ionic/elemental abundances were investigated herein. We determined 13 elemental abundances using point-spread-function-matched spatially integrated multiwavelength spectra extracted from the same aperture. Their values are consistent with values predicted by a theoretical model for stars of initially 1.75 M⊙ and Z = 0.003. Finally, we constructed the photoionization model using our distance measurement to be consistent with all derived quantities, including the GDR, gas and dust masses, and post-AGB evolution. Thus, we demonstrate the capability of the Kyoto Okayama Optical Low-dispersion Spectrograph with optical-fibre Integral Field Unit (KOOLS-IFU) and how the spatial variation of the gas and dust components in PNe derived from IFU observations can help understand the evolution of the circumstellar/interstellar medium.
Classifying IGR J18007−4146 as an intermediate polar using XMM and NuSTAR
Authors: Coughenour Benjamin M , Tomsick John A , Shaw Aarran W , Mukai Koji , Clavel Maïca , Hare Jeremy , Krivonos Roman , Fornasini Francesca M
Published: January 2022

Many new and unidentified Galactic sources have recently been revealed by ongoing hard X-ray surveys. A significant fraction of these have been shown to be the type of accreting white dwarfs known as cataclysmic variables (CVs). Follow-up observations are often required to categorize and classify these sources, and may also identify potentially unique or interesting cases. One such case is IGR J18007−4146, which is likely a CV based on follow-up Chandra observations and constraints from optical/IR catalogues. Utilizing simultaneous XMM–Newton and NuSTAR observations, as well as the available optical/IR data, we confirm the nature of IGR J18007−4146 as an intermediate polar type CV. Timing analysis of the XMM data reveals a periodic signal at 424.4 ± 0.7 s that we interpret as the spin period of the white dwarf. Modelling the 0.3–78 keV spectrum, we use a thermal bremsstrahlung continuum but require intrinsic absorption as well as a soft component and strong Fe lines between 6 and 7 keV. We model the soft component using a single-temperature blackbody with $kT = 73^{+8}_{-6}$ eV. From the X-ray spectrum, we are able to measure the mass of the white dwarf to be $1.06^{+0.19}_{-0.10}$ $\mathrm{ M}_{\mathord \odot }$, which means IGR J18007−4146 is more massive than the average for magnetic CVs.
Gravity or turbulence V: star-forming regions undergoing violent relaxation
Authors: Bonilla-Barroso Andrea , Ballesteros-Paredes Javier , Hernández Jesus , Aguilar Luis , Zamora-Avilés Manuel , Hartmann Lee W , Kuznetsova Aleksandra , Camacho Vianey , Lora Verónica
Published: January 2022

Using numerical simulations of the formation and evolution of stellar clusters within molecular clouds (MCs), we show that the stars in clusters formed within collapsing MC clumps exhibit a constant velocity dispersion regardless of their mass, as expected in violent relaxation processes. In contrast, clusters formed in turbulence-dominated environments exhibit an inverse mass segregated velocity dispersion, where massive stars exhibit larger velocity dispersions than low-mass cores, consistent with massive stars formed in massive clumps, which, in turn, are formed through strong shocks. We furthermore use Gaia EDR3 to show that the stars in the Orion Nebula Cluster exhibit a constant velocity dispersion as a function of mass, suggesting that it has been formed by collapse within one free-fall time of its parental cloud, rather than in a turbulence-dominated environment during many free-fall times of a supported cloud. Additionally, we have addressed several of the criticisms of models of collapsing star-forming regions: namely, the age spread of the ONC, the comparison of the ages of the stars to the free-fall time of the gas that formed it, the star formation efficiency, and the mass densities of clouds versus the mass densities of stellar clusters, showing that observational and numerical data are consistent with clusters forming in clouds undergoing a process of global, hierarchical and chaotic collapse, rather than being supported by turbulence.
Evolution of Earth’s magnetosheath as a planar magnetic structure
Authors: Shaikh Zubair I , Raghav Anil N
Published: January 2022

In general, the Earth’s magnetosheath (MS) plasma is highly compressed, heated, and turbulent. Thus, it provides preferential conditions in which to investigate plasma turbulence, dissipation, and transport, which are the major unresolved issues in the modern space era. Here, we examine plasma evolution features using 10 crossovers of the Wind spacecraft through the dawn and dusk sides of the Earth’s magnetosheath. The study demonstrates explicitly that the magnetosheath is transformed into planar magnetic structure (PMS). We found that, on average, $77.56{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the whole magnetosheath transit-time region is transformed into PMS. The average thickness of the magnetosheath-moulded PMS is ∼5.74 h. We also noticed that a few plasma parameters, such as Bmag and β, Np and Tp, Np and Vp, and Tp and Vp, show high correlation coefficients. Also, the regression analysis of these variables suggests that they are dependent on each other equally. We propose that the MS evolves into PMS due to the draping of plasma at the magnetopause surface, or the alignment of a discontinuity present in the MS due to high compression caused by the solar wind. However, convection of solar-wind-originated PMS into the MS should not be overlooked.
A patient with Castleman’s disease initially manifesting symmetrical synovitis with pitting oedema
Authors: Kondo Junichi , Arinuma Yoshiyuki , Matsueda Yu , Hasegawa Yasuhiro , Muramatsu Takumi , Kanayama Yoshiro , Hoshiyama Takayuki , Tono Toshihiro , Tanaka Sumiaki , Oku Kenji , Yamaoka Kunihiro
Published: January 2022

Castleman’s disease (CD), especially multicentric CD (MCD) has been known to manifest a variety of clinical features such as fatigue, anaemia, fever, and hypergammaglobulinaemia. Here, we report a 72-year-old female patient who had complicated severe synovitis, as an initial manifestation of the disease, lastly diagnosed as MCD. Initially, she had been diagnosed as remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting oedema (RS3PE) syndrome because of bilateral leg pitting oedema with significant C-reactive protein and matrix metalloproteinase-3 elevation but no disease-specific autoantibodies. Promptly, corticosteroid and additionally weekly methotrexate were introduced, but her leg oedema and inflammatory findings did not adequately come to be a remission. A lymph node biopsy from the groin region was performed because multiple lymph node swelling in ultrasound examination appeared even after introducing treatments, which revealed mixed-type CD. Multiple lymphadenopathies were observed in the axilla and inguinal region; finally, we diagnosed her as idiopathic MCD and introduced tocilizumab, which significantly improved leg oedema as well as inflammatory findings. As is shown in this case, manifestations included in RS3PE syndrome could be one of the clinical phenotypes in MCD, which should be considered as a differential diagnosis of MCD.
The obsolescing bargain crosses the Belt and Road Initiative: renegotiations on BRI projects
Authors: Bennon Michael , Fukuyama Francis
Published: January 2022

Over the past decade, there has been an extremely rapid increase in bilaterally financed infrastructure projects globally, as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is a broad initiative involving many Chinese state-owned enterprises to develop transport and other infrastructure across the developing world, with bilateral financing from either the China Development Bank (CDB) or the China Export–Import Bank (CEXIM). More recently, many large BRI projects have undergone renegotiations with borrower nations or caused financial distress. This provides a useful opportunity to evaluate the BRI through the lens of the obsolescing bargain model. The obsolescing bargain has historically been used to describe the relationship between multinational corporations (MNCs) and the developing countries they invest in. For large capital investments paid off over a long operating period, such as infrastructure projects, the obsolescing bargain describes a shift in leverage from MNCs to the host nation once the capital investment is complete, often leading to renegotiation or even expropriation. This study examines the BRI through the lens of the obsolescing bargain to evaluate the practices of China’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and policy banks in mitigating political risk.
Telehealth education improves parental care ability and postoperative nutritional status of infants after CHD surgery: A prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Zhang Qi-Liang , Lei Yu-Qing , Liu Jian-Feng , Chen Qiang , Cao Hua
Published: January 2022

Objective

This study aimed to explore the effect of telehealth education on improving the parental care ability and postoperative nutritional status of infants after congenital heart disease surgery.

Methods

A prospective randomized controlled study was conducted at a provincial maternal and child hospital in southeastern China. A total of 84 infants were enrolled in the study, with 42 infants in the intervention group and 42 infants in the control group.

Results

Body weight, albumin, prealbumin, and hemoglobin of infants in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group one month after discharge (P<0.05). The STRONGkids score of infants in the intervention group was significantly higher than that of those in the control group one month after discharge (P<0.05). The Family Caregiver Task Inventory score of infants in the intervention group was significantly lower than that of those in the control group one month after discharge (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Performing telehealth education about home feeding and care guidance for parents of infants after congenital heart disease surgery can greatly improve parental care ability so that infants get better feeding and care, which can effectively improve the postoperative nutritional status of the infants.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell Senescence: Hallmarks, Mechanisms, and Combating Strategies
Authors: Weng Zhijie , Wang Yigan , Ouchi Takehito , Liu Hanghang , Qiao Xianghe , Wu Chenzhou , Zhao Zhihe , Li Longjiang , Li Bo
Published: January 2022

Aging is a multifaceted and complicated process, manifested by a decline of normal physiological functions across tissues and organs, leading to overt frailty, mortality, and chronic diseases, such as skeletal, cardiovascular, and cognitive disorders, necessitating the development of practical therapeutic approaches. Stem cell aging is one of the leading theories of organismal aging. For decades, mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have been regarded as a viable and ideal source for stem cell-based therapy in anti-aging treatment due to their outstanding clinical characteristics, including easy accessibility, simplicity of isolation, self-renewal and proliferation ability, multilineage differentiation potentials, and immunomodulatory effects. Nonetheless, as evidenced in numerous studies, MSCs undergo functional deterioration and gradually lose stemness with systematic age in vivo or extended culture in vitro, limiting their therapeutic applications. Even though our understanding of the processes behind MSC senescence remains unclear, significant progress has been achieved in elucidating the aspects of the age-related MSC phenotypic changes and possible mechanisms driving MSC senescence. In this review, we aim to summarize the current knowledge of the morphological, biological, and stem-cell marker alterations of aging MSCs, the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie MSC senescence, the recent progress made regarding the innovative techniques to rejuvenate senescent MSCs and combat aging, with a particular focus on the interplay between aging MSCs and their niche as well as clinical translational relevance. Also, we provide some promising and novel directions for future research concerning MSC senescence.
Forage agronomists are needed in animal science departments
Authors: Looper Michael L , Jennings John A , Daniel Rivera J
Published: January 2022

Ruminants serve a valuable role in sustainable agricultural systems, specifically in the conversion of renewable resources from grasslands, pasture, and other by-products into high-quality human food. Recognizing forage and grasses are grown on 25% of arable land, suitable agronomic practices for management of grazing livestock are necessary for the economic sustainability of the livestock enterprise, whereas at the same time, minimizing water and soil erosion. Demographics of undergraduate animal science students have changed over the last several years with more students from urban backgrounds and with interests other than traditional animal agriculture. Thus, continued emphasis on education programs supporting grazing livestock industries becomes that much more important. In addition, newer technologies to measure production on range and pastureland have emerged, thereby increasing opportunities for further training and education. Based on an email assessment of 10 land grant institutions, typically one MS student/yr and one PhD student/3 to 4 yr graduates with an advanced degree in forage agronomy. Overall budget reductions which impact operational costs, internal funding for research projects and graduate student stipends, force universities to focus in areas with the best chance of monetary return. Challenges with funding faculty positions outside of a department’s emphasis area typically result in the question “Should forage agronomy students be trained in Departments of Animal Science or Agronomy/Plant/Soils Sciences?” It could be argued that either department is the best fit. Forage agronomy requires training in the basics of plant and soil science, but the application of those sciences within a Department of Animal Science relates more to animal science/production than to traditional crop production such as cereal grains. Animal science departments must communicate the meaningful context of forage agronomy in an active learning environment developing students’ ability to critically think and solve problems. Those providing technical expertise to livestock producers can no longer make recommendations based solely on production efficiency and profitability. Instead, best management practices must include the impact of grazing livestock on the environment and environmental sustainability. Cooperative agreements between departments should be discussed to adequately support student development in this critical subject matter.
Case Report of Esophageal Rupture, Empyema, and Aortic Dissection Potentially Caused by Severe Vomiting
Authors: Huang Jiawen , Huang Chengfeng , Lin Zhaoming , Liu Huanan , Zhang Xiaoshen
Published: January 2022

Both empyema and type A aortic dissection are life-threatening conditions. The combination, though rare, can cause serious complications and death. There have been rare cases of empyema caused by a co-infection with a Gram-positive bacterium, Granulicatella adiacens, which is difficult to identify, and a Gram-negative bacterium, Escherichia coli. In this case, a 50-year-old man was referred to the emergency department due to sudden chest pain and a suspected diagnosis of type A aortic dissection. The patient was subsequently found to have co-morbid empyema and a fissure in the esophagus when the cause of the disease was investigated. Considering the possibility that the patient's infection was of digestive origin, a combination of Gram-positive and Gram-negative antibiotics was given immediately. Etiological examination later confirmed the presence of Granulicatella adiacens and Escherichia coli in chest drainage fluid, and the patient was successfully treated with antimicrobial therapy and conservative treatment.
Efficacy and Safety of Olanzapine in Children Receiving Highly Emetogenic Chemotherapy: A Randomized, Double-blind Placebo-controlled Phase 3 Trial
Authors: Moothedath Abdul W. , Meena Jagdish P. , Gupta Aditya K. , Velpandian Thirumurthy , Pandey Ravindra M. , Seth Rachna
Published: January 2022

Background:

In this trial, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of olanzapine in children receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, patients aged 3 to 18 years were randomly assigned to either the olanzapine group or the placebo group. All patients received intravenous ondansetron and dexamethasone 30 minutes before highly emetogenic chemotherapy, followed by oral ondansetron for 48 hours. Participants in the olanzapine group received olanzapine once daily on days 1 and 2, while those in the control group received a placebo in the same dosage and schedule. The primary objective was: (a) to compare the complete control rates of vomiting in the delayed phase and (b) to compare the complete control rates of vomiting in acute and overall phases. The secondary objective was to evaluate the safety of olanzapine and the need for rescue medications.

Results:

A total of 128 patients were randomly assigned either to the olanzapine group (n=63) or the control group (n=65). Complete control of vomiting between olanzapine and placebo group was 73% versus 48% (P=0.005) in the delayed phase, 60% versus 54% (P=0.46) in the acute phase, and 48% versus 34% (P=0.117) in the overall phase, respectively. Grades 1 and 2 sedation was greater in the olanzapine group (46% vs. 14%; P<0.001). A significantly higher proportion of patients in the placebo group required rescue medications for vomiting compared with in the olanzapine group (P=0.025).

Conclusions:

Olanzapine significantly improved complete control of vomiting in the delayed phase. A considerably lesser proportion of patients in the olanzapine group needed rescue medications.
Knowledge of Required Medical Surveillance Among Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer
Authors: Goode Erin , Shah Devangi , Ver Hoeve Elizabeth S. , Anderson Lindsay M. , Walsh Alexandra
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors experience treatment-related late effects so guidelines recommend providing a treatment summary, yearly follow-up, and risk-adapted testing. AYA survivors’ knowledge of surveillance follow-up was studied.

Results:

Survey responses for 73 AYAs were stratified: low (0 to 1 correct; n=18; 24.7%) versus high knowledge (2 to 4 correct; n=55; 75.3%) of their required testing. Patient-reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores fell within average ranges for participant age (T-scores: 52.4 for physical function, 49.3 for anxiety, 46.3 for depression, and 44.7 for fatigue). Younger age at survivorship visit was a significant predictors of improved knowledge scores.

Conclusion:

Despite attendance at a survivorship clinic, minority of participants (9.5%) demonstrated complete knowledge of surveillance testing needs. Most survivors are aware of some of their surveillance needs. PROMIS scores were not associated with surveillance knowledge.