bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome Analysis Identified 2 New lncRNAs Associated with the Metastasis of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: He Shizhi , Arikin Abdeyrim , Chen Jiaming , Huang Tianqiao , Wu Zhen , Wang Lingwa , Yang Fan , Li Yunxia , Yang Yifan , Wang Ru , Lian Meng , Zhong Qi , Fang Jugao
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) is a specific subgroup of papillary thyroid carcinoma and defined with the dimension ≤1 cm by the WHO. Although it shows a relatively high 10-year livability, the metastasis of PTMC into other tissues and organs seriously affects the daily life of patients with relatively high mortality. Therefore, the genetic basis for the metastasis of PTMC needs to be explored for effective therapeutic targets. Here, we conducted a series of comparative analysis of the transcriptional expression profile between PTMC patients with and without lymph node metastasis. Methods: Gene expression profile and gene function were analyzed using RNA extracted from pathological tissues of 12 patients with PTMC, and the core biomarkers closely related to its metastasis were identified. Results: Our results showed that 7,507 genes and 42 RNAs showed remarkably different expression patterns. More sophisticated analysis showed that the high expression of 2 lncRNAs (T077499 and T004533) resulted in the metastasis of PTMC, which suggests that the expression pattern of the 2 lncRNAs may act as a potential biomarker for pathogenesis and prognosis of PTMC metastasis. Conclusion: Our findings preliminarily reveal the molecular mechanisms for PTMC metastasis, which will provide vital reference for subsequent studies about the genetic basis and molecular targeted therapy for PTMC metastasis.
Ten Years of Improving Acute Stroke Management in a Metropolitan Area: A Population-Based Quantification of Quality Indicators
Authors: Alegiani Anna , Rosenkranz Michael , Schmitz Leonie , Lezius Susanne , Seidel Günter , Heßelmann Volker , Töpper Rudolf , Terborg Christoph , Urban Peter P. , Brüning Roland , Höltje Jan , Lienau Florian , Arning Christian , Marquardt Lars , Müller-Jensen Axel , Röther Joachim , Eckert Bernd , Zapf Antonia , Fiehler Jens , Thomalla Götz , Gerloff Christian
Published: October 2021

Background and Purpose: Rapid access to acute stroke treatment improves clinical outcomes in patients with ischemic stroke. We aimed to shorten the time to admission and to acute stroke treatment for patients with acute stroke in the Hamburg metropolitan area by collaborative multilevel measures involving all hospitals with stroke units, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and health-care authorities. Methods: In 2007, an area-wide stroke care quality project was initiated. The project included mandatory admission of all stroke patients in Hamburg exclusively to hospitals with stroke units, harmonized acute treatment algorithms among all hospitals, repeated training of the EMS staff, a multimedia educational campaign, and a mandatory stroke care quality monitoring system based on structured data assessment and quality indicators for procedural measures. We analyzed data of all patients with acute stroke who received inhospital treatment in the city of Hamburg during the evaluation period from the quality assurance database data and evaluated trends of key quality indicators over time. Results: From 2007 to 2016, a total of 83,395 patients with acute stroke were registered. During this period, the proportion of patients admitted within ≤3 h from symptom onset increased over time from 27.8% in 2007 to 35.2% in 2016 (p < 0.001). The proportion of patients who received rapid thrombolysis (within ≤30 min after admission) increased from 7.7 to 54.1% (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Collaborative stroke care quality projects are suitable and effective to improve acute stroke care.
Telomerase-Positive Somatic Tissues of Honeybee Queens (Apis mellifera) Display No DNA Replication
Authors: Koubová Justina , Čapková Frydrychová Radmila
Published: October 2021

Telomere biology is closely linked to the process of aging. The restoration of telomere length by maintaining telome­rase activity in certain cell types of human adults allows for the proliferative capacity of the cells and preserves the regeneration potential of the tissue. The absence of telome­rase, that leads to telomere attrition and irreversible cell cycle arrest in most somatic cells, acts as a protective mechanism against uncontrolled cancer growth. Nevertheless, there have been numerous studies indicating noncanonical functions of telomerase besides those involved in telomere lengthening. Eusocial insects serve as a great system for aging research. This is because eusocial reproductives, such as queens and kings, have a significantly extended lifespan compared to nonreproductive individuals of the same species. We report that the somatic tissues of honeybee queens (Apis mellifera) are associated with upregulated telomerase activity; however, this upregulation does not fully correlate with the rate of DNA replication in the tissues. This indicates a noncanonical role of telomerase in the somatic tissues of honeybee queens.
Posterior Quadrant Disconnection for Childhood Onset Sub-Hemispheric Posterior Head Region Epilepsy: Indications in an Indian Cohort and Outcome
Authors: Kadam Raju , Arimappamagan Arivazhagan , Bhaskara Rao Malla , Sadashiva Nishanth , Mundlamuri Ravindranadh Chowdary , Raghavendra Kenchaiah , Asranna Ajay , Viswanathan Lakshminarayanapuram Gopal , Mariyappa Narayanan , Kulanthaivelu Karthik , Mangalore Sandhya , Nagaraj Chandana , Saini Jitender , Bharath Rose Dawn , Rajeswaran Jamuna , Mahadevan Anita , Satishchandra P. , Sinha Sanjib
Published: October 2021

Background: Posterior quadrant disconnection (PQD) is an under-utilized surgical technique in the management of refractory epilepsy. There is a dearth of data pertinent to post-PQD seizure outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed patients with drug-resistant childhood-onset epilepsy who underwent PQD at our center from 2009 to 2018. The clinical, imaging, and electrophysiological data were reviewed. The seizure outcome was noted from the latest follow-up in all patients. Results: Fifteen patients underwent PQD, with a mean age at onset of epilepsy of 3.3 ± 4.6 years. All patients had seizure onset in childhood with focal onset of seizures, and in addition, 5 had multiple seizure types. All cases underwent presurgical workup with MRI, video-EEG, psychometry, while PET/MEG was done if required. Engel Ia and ILAE I outcomes were considered to be favorable. The histology of the specimen showed 9 patients (60%) had gliosis, 4 (26.7%) had focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), while 1 patient had nodular heterotopia and another had polymicrogyria-pachygyria complex. Postoperative follow-up was available in 14 cases. One patient was lost to follow-up. Mean follow-up duration for the cohort was 45 + 24 months. At last, follow-up (n = 14), 66.7% (10 cases) had favorable outcome (Engel Ia). At the end of 1-year follow-up, up to 73% (n = 11) of the patients were seizure-free. Four patients developed transient hemiparesis after surgery which improved completely by 3–6 months. Conclusions: Gliosis was more common etiology requiring PQD in our series than Western series, where FCD was more common. PQD is a safe and effective surgical modality in childhood-onset epilepsy with posterior head region epileptogenic focus.
The Effect of Selective Retina Therapy for Bevacizumab-Resistant Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Jeon Seung Hee , Kim Minhee , Lee Jiyoung , Roh Young-Jung
Published: October 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of selective retina therapy (SRT), used in conjunction with real-time feedback dosimetry (RFD), in the treatment of bevacizumab-resistant chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Patients and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 22 eyes of 22 patients with bevacizumab-resistant chronic CSC, showing focal or diffuse foveal leakages on fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), were included. After evaluation of the test spots at temporal arcades, SRT (wavelength, 527 nm; pulse repetition rate, 100 Hz; ramping over maximal 15 micropulses; and spot diameter, 200 μm) using RFD was applied to the leakage sites observed on FFA. Changes in the mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and subretinal fluid (SRF) height were evaluated at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months following treatment. Results: SRF completely resolved in 81.8% (18/22 eyes) cases at 12 months post-treatment. The mean BCVA (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR]) improved from 0.49 ± 0.29 at baseline to 0.43 ± 0.36 at 12 months (p = 0.067). The mean BCVA gain was 0.06 logMAR, equivalent to 3 ETDRS letters. The CMT significantly decreased from 323 ± 85.6 μm at baseline to 221.5 ± 60.4 μm at 12 months (p < 0.001). The mean SRF height also significantly decreased from 174.6 ± 86.4 μm at baseline to 35.1 ± 75.4 μm at 12 months (p < 0.001). Conclusion: SRT showed favorable visual and anatomical outcomes in patients with bevacizumab-resistant chronic CSC.
Análise comparativa sobre as alterações radiológicas ocasionadas pelos vírus SARS-CoV E SARS-CoV-2: uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Loureiro Júlia Caixeta , Brito Amanda Mendonça de , Borges Isabella Caixeta , Freitas Andréia de Albuquerque , Guimarães Ana Flávia Bereta Coelho
Published: October 2021

No final de 2019 um novo coronavírus denominado SARS-CoV-2 surgiu em Wuhan, na China e foi responsável por uma pandemia com repercussões sem precedentes. Entretanto, sabe-se que há cerca de 20 anos, em 2002, o país teve uma epidemia de outro coronavírus, o SARS-CoV, sendo que seus portadores apresentaram quadro clínico muito semelhante aos infectados pelo novo vírus. Além da clínica, a apresentação radiológica, de maneira geral, também é similar. Dessa forma, o presente estudo tem como objetivo a análise e comparação das alterações radiológicas presentes em ambas as infecções, bem como a produção científica acerca desses achados, por meio de uma revisão da literatura. A busca pelo referencial teórico ocorreu em agosto de 2020 por meio das bases de dados da Scielo, Medscape e PubMed, além de protocolos médicos. Após aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão foram selecionados vinte e um artigos que atenderam o objetivo da pesquisa e cinco protocolos. As alterações radiológicas do SARS-CoV e SARS-CoV-2 são, de forma geral, semelhantes, embora, há algumas diferenças, em relação a virulência e ao grau de progressão do acometimento pulmonar. Quanto ao melhor método de imagem, a radiografia pode se sobressair como uma ferramenta mais barata e acessível, levando em consideração a sobrecarga dos serviços de saúde no contexto de uma pandemia mundial.
Lipoprotein(a): A Genetically Determined, Causal, and Prevalent Risk Factor for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Reyes-Soffer Gissette , Ginsberg Henry N. , Berglund Lars , Duell P. Barton , Heffron Sean P. , Kamstrup Pia R. , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Marcovina Santica M. , Yeang Calvin , Koschinsky Marlys L. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Intervention; and Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease
Published: October 2021

High levels of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], an apoB100-containing lipoprotein, are an independent and causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases through mechanisms associated with increased atherogenesis, inflammation, and thrombosis. Lp(a) is predominantly a monogenic cardiovascular risk determinant, with ≈70% to ≥90% of interindividual heterogeneity in levels being genetically determined. The 2 major protein components of Lp(a) particles are apoB100 and apolipoprotein(a). Lp(a) remains a risk factor for cardiovascular disease development even in the setting of effective reduction of plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apoB100. Despite its demonstrated contribution to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease burden, we presently lack standardization and harmonization of assays, universal guidelines for diagnosing and providing risk assessment, and targeted treatments to lower Lp(a). There is a clinical need to understand the genetic and biological basis for variation in Lp(a) levels and its relationship to disease in different ancestry groups. This scientific statement capitalizes on the expertise of a diverse basic science and clinical workgroup to highlight the history, biology, pathophysiology, and emerging clinical evidence in the Lp(a) field. Herein, we address key knowledge gaps and future directions required to mitigate the atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk attributable to elevated Lp(a) levels.
N-Acetyl Galactosamine Targeting: Paving the Way for Clinical Application of Nucleotide Medicines in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Biessen Erik A.L. , Van Berkel Theo J.C.
Published: October 2021

While the promise of oligonucleotide therapeutics, such as (chemically modified) ASO (antisense oligonucleotides) and short interfering RNAs, is undisputed from their introduction onwards, their unfavorable pharmacokinetics and intrinsic capacity to mobilize innate immune responses, were limiting widespread clinical use. However, these major setbacks have been tackled by breakthroughs in chemistry, stability and delivery. When aiming an intervention hepatic targets, such as lipid and sugar metabolism, coagulation, not to mention cancer and virus infection, introduction of N-acetylgalactosamine aided targeting technology has advanced the field profoundly and by now a dozen of N-acetylgalactosamine therapeutics for these indications have been approved for clinical use or have progressed to clinical trial stage 2 to 3 testing. This technology, in combination with major advances in oligonucleotide stability allows safe and durable intervention in targets that were previously deemed undruggable, such as Lp(a) and PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), at high efficacy and specificity, often with as little as 2 doses per year. Their successful use even the most visionary would not have predicted 2 decades ago. Here, we will review the evolution of N-acetylgalactosamine technology. We shall outline their fundamental design principles and merits, and their application for the delivery of oligonucleotide therapeutics to the liver. Finally, we will discuss the perspectives of N-acetylgalactosamine technology and propose directions for future research in receptor targeted delivery of these gene medicines.
Prevalence and Prognostic Significance of Malnutrition Risk in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: Results From the Third China National Stroke Registry
Authors: Zhang Guitao , Pan Yuesong , Zhang Runhua , Wang Mengxing , Meng Xia , Li Zixiao , Li Hao , Wang Yilong , Zhao Xingquan , Liu Gaifen , Wang Yongjun
Published: October 2021

Background and Purpose:

To investigate the prevalence of malnutrition risk in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) at admission, the association between malnutrition risk and long-term outcomes, and whether the predictive ability would be improved after adding to previous prognostic models for poor outcomes.

Methods:

Based on the Third China National Stroke Registry data from August 2015 to March 2018, we evaluated malnutrition risk using objective scores, including the controlling nutritional status score, geriatric nutritional risk index, and prognostic nutritional index. The primary outcome was death or major disability (modified Rankin Scale score ≥3) at 1 year after stroke onset. We calculated the crude prevalence of malnutrition risk and investigated the association between malnutrition risk and clinical outcomes. Prognostic performance of 3 objective malnutrition scores for poor outcomes was assessed.

Results:

Moderate to severe malnutrition risk was identified in 5.89%, 5.30%, and 1.95% of the Third China National Stroke Registry AIS patients according to the controlling nutritional status score, geriatric nutritional risk index, and prognostic nutritional index, respectively. At 1-year follow-up, 1143 participants (13.5%) experienced death or major disability. After adjustment for traditional risk factors, moderate to severe malnutrition risk was associated with high risk of composite events (odds ratio, 2.25 [95% CI, 1.75–2.90], for controlling nutritional status score; odds ratio, 2.10 [95% CI, 1.63–2.69], for geriatric nutritional risk index; odds ratio, 3.36 [95% CI, 2.33–4.84], for prognostic nutritional index; all
P
<0.01). Addition of the 3 malnutrition scores to different predicted scales (iScore and Acute Stroke Registry and Analysis of Lausanne) improved predictive ability for long-term poor outcomes validated by the integrated discrimination index (all
P
<0.05).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of moderate or severe malnutrition risk in Chinese patients with AIS ranged from 1.95% to 5.89%. Malnutrition risk in patients with AIS was associated with increased risk of long-term death and major disability. Our study provides evidence supporting the prognostic significance of objective malnutrition scores after AIS.
Two new species of Bimastos (Oligochaeta, Lumbricidae) from the Southern Appalachian Mountains, North America
Authors: CARRERA-MARTÍNEZ ROBERTO , JONES DANIEL , SCHOVILLE SEAN D. , SNYDER BRUCE A. , CALLAHAM MAC A. JR.
Published: October 2021

Two new species of Bimastos Moore are described based on morphological and molecular data. Bimastos nanae n. sp. resembles B. lawrenceae Fender, B. zeteki (Smith and Gittins) and B. welchi (Smith). Bimastos nanae n. sp. differs from these species in the position of the clitellum, size and number and position of thickened septa. Bimastos magnum n. sp. is similar to B. schwerti Csuzdi & Chang and B. palustris Moore in having a fully annular clitellum and male pores on huge porophores. Bimastos magnum n. sp. differs from both species by having a more posterior position of the clitellum (in xxiv-xxxiii, xxxiv) and larger body size. With the description of these new species, the number of Bimastos species is raised to 14.
First record of the genus Gnathochorisis Förster, 1869 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Orthocentrinae) from the Afrotropical region, with descriptions of two new species from Kenya
Authors: VARGA OLEKSANDR
Published: October 2021

The genus Gnathochorisis Förster, 1869 is recorded from the Afrotropical region for the first time: G. malavensis sp. n. and G. ventralis sp. n. are described from Kenya. A key to the Afrotropical species of the genus is provided.
Recognition Method of Abnormal Power Consumption State of Power Users Based on Strategy Gradient Algorithm
Authors: Bao Fu , Gao Yudou
Published: October 2021

Because the traditional method ignores the problem of power load data preprocessing, the accuracy of the recognition result of the power consumption status is not high, the recognition efficiency is not high, and the recognition effect is not good. For this reason, a method for identifying
the abnormal power consumption status of power users based on the strategy gradient algorithm is proposed. The preprocessing of power load data mainly includes the completion of missing data and the feature extraction of power load data. Based on the results of the preprocessing, the abnormal
increase in user power consumption is detected. Finally, the strategy gradient algorithm is used for initial training and training process testing to complete the identification of the abnormal state of power users. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the power status recognition
result of the proposed method is higher, and the recognition time is always less than 2.0 s, indicating that the recognition effect of the method is better.
Impact of Fabrication and Operation Errors on Super-Focusing Performance of a Nanoslit-Based Metalens
Authors: Zhou Shun , Zhu Yechuan , Ge Shaobo , Xie Fei , Jin Na , Liu Weiguo
Published: October 2021

Metasurfaces with optical manipulation at subwavelength resolution show promises for developing ultrathin and flat optical components, attracting great interest from the optical scientific community. In our recent work, a metalens has demonstrated a special capability of quasi-far-field
super-resolution focusing, which comprised a metallic nanoslit array with the incidence of a transverse-electric (TE) polarized light. In this paper, in order to guide practical fabrication and operation of a device, we perform a study on the metalens to analyze the impact of many imperfections
on the super-resolution focusing capability. We take fabrication and operation errors into account, including errors in nanoslit width, metal film thickness, operating wavelength, polarization and incident angle of incident light. Numerical results illustrate that the sensitivity of the metalens
focusing performance to each error is different. To be specific, the focusing performance of the metalens is considerably susceptible to the error in the incidence angle. Therefore, we not only need to fabricate the metalens device precisely, but also need to ensure that the working conditions
agree well with the design, so as to achieve the desired focusing performance. Our research offers a valuable guide for the realization of the super-resolution focusing technology in practice.
Effect of the MJO on East Asian winter rainfall as revealed by an SVD analysis
Authors: Chen Yun-Lan , Sui Chung-Hsiung , Chang Chih-Pei , Tseng Kai-Chih
Published: October 2021

This paper studies the influences of the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) on East Asian (EA) winter rainfall using the Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) approach. This method uses two-dimensional instead of the latitudinally-averaged variables in the commonly used Real-time Multivariate MJO (RMM) index. A comparison of the two approaches is made using the same OLR and zonal wind data over 37 boreal winter seasons of December – March. The SVD composite reveals a more conspicuous and coherent variation throughout the MJO cycle, while the RMM composite is more ambiguous. In particular, the SVD analysis identifies the convection anomalies over the Maritime Continent and the subtropical western Pacific (MCWP) as a major cause of enhanced rainfall in EA at RMM phases 8 and 1. This is at least one-eighth cycle earlier than the phases of convection development over Indian Ocean (IO) that were emphasized by previous studies. A linearized global baroclinic model is used to demonstrate the mechanism of MJO forcing on EA rainfall during various phases, with a focus on the MCWP cooling. The result shows that the anomalous MCWP cooling and the resultant low-level anticyclonic flow interact with the East Asian Jet, leading to an overall weakened EA winter monsoon circulation. The associated anomalous overturning circulation, with ascending motion and low-level horizonal moisture convergence in EA, contributes to the enhanced rainfall. This model result supports the interpretation of the SVD analysis, in that the MCWP-cooling induced anomalous meridional circulation is a more direct cause of enhanced EA rainfall than the IO-heating (or the IO-MCWP heating dipole) induced Rossby wave teleconnection.
Unplanned Readmissions to the Intensive Care Unit Among Geriatric Trauma Patients
Authors: Santarelli Shana , Morgan Madison E. , Vernon Tawnya , Bradburn Eric , Perea Lindsey L.
Published: October 2021

Background

Unplanned readmission/bounceback to the intensive care unit (ICUBB) is a prevalent issue in the medical community. The geriatric population is incompletely studied in regard to ICUBB. We sought to determine if ICUBB in older patients was associated with higher risk of mortality. We hypothesized that, of those who were older, those with ICUBB would have higher mortality compared to those with no ICUBB. Further, we hypothesized that of those with ICUBB, older age would lead to higher mortality.

Methods

The Pennsylvania Trauma Outcome Study database was retrospectively queried from 2003 to 2018 for all trauma patients of age ≥40 years. Those with advance directives were excluded. Adjusted analysis in the form of logistic regressions controlling for demographic and injury covariates and clustering by facility were used to assess the adjusted impact of ICUBB and age on mortality.

Results

363,778 patients were aged ≥40 years. When comparing mortalities between the age 40 and 49 years group and those in older groups, a dramatic increase in mortality was observed between those in each respective age category with ICUBB vs non-ICUBB. This trend was most prominent in those in the 90+ years age group (ICUBB: AOR: 34.78, P < .001; non-ICUBB: AOR: 9.08, P < .001). A second model only including patients who had ICUBB found that patients of age ≥65 years had significantly higher odds of mortality (AOR: 4.10, P < .001) when compared to their younger counterparts (age <65 years).

Discussion

An ICUBB seems to exacerbate mortality rates as age increases. This profound increase in mortality calls for strategies to be developed, especially in the older population, to attempt to mitigate the factors leading to ICUBB.
Acute Vocal Fold Paresis and Paralysis After COVID-19 Infection: A Case Series
Authors: Rapoport Sarah K. , Alnouri Ghiath , Sataloff Robert T. , Woo Peak
Published: October 2021

Objective:

Evidence demonstrates neurotropism is a common feature of coronaviruses. In our laryngology clinics we have noted an increase in cases of “idiopathic” vocal fold paralysis and paresis in patients with no history of intubation who are recovering from the novel SARS-Cov-2 coronavirus (COVID-19). This finding is concerning for a post-viral vagal neuropathy (PVVN) as a result of infection with COVID-19. Our objective is to raise the possibility that vocal fold paresis may be an additional neuropathic sequela of infection with COVID-19.

Methods:

Retrospective review of patients who tested positive for COVID-19, had no history of intubation as a result of their infection, and subsequently presented with vocal fold paresis between May 2020 and January 2021. Charts were reviewed for demographic information, confirmation of COVID-19 infection, presenting symptoms, laryngoscopy and stroboscopy exam findings, and laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) results.

Results:

Sixteen patients presented with new-onset dysphonia during and after recovering from a COVID-19 infection and were found to have unilateral or bilateral vocal fold paresis or paralysis. LEMG was performed in 25% of patients and confirmed the diagnosis of neuropathy in these cases.

Conclusions:

We believe that COVID-19 can cause a PVVN resulting in abnormal vocal fold mobility. This diagnosis should be included in the constellation of morbidities that can result from COVID-19 as the otolaryngologist can identify this entity through careful history and examination.
On the Limit of Detection in Infrared Spectroscopic Imaging
Authors: Lux Laurin , Phal Yamuna , Hsieh Pei-Hsuan , Bhargava Rohit
Published: October 2021

Infrared (IR) spectroscopic imaging instruments’ performance can be characterized and optimized by an analysis of their limit of detection (LOD). Here we report a systematic analysis of the LOD for Fourier transform IR (FT-IR) and discrete frequency IR (DFIR) imaging spectrometers. In addition to traditional measurements of sample and blank data, we propose a decision theory perspective to pose the determination of LOD as a binary classification problem under different assumptions of noise uniformity and correlation. We also examine three spectral analysis approaches, namely, absorbance at a single frequency, average of absorbance over selected frequencies and total spectral distance – to suit instruments that acquire discrete or contiguous spectral bandwidths. The analysis is validated by refining the fabrication of a bovine serum albumin protein microarray to provide eight uniform spots from ∼2.8 nL of solution for each concentration over a wide range (0.05–10 mg/mL). Using scanning parameters that are typical for each instrument, we estimate a LOD of 0.16 mg/mL and 0.12 mg/mL for widefield and line scanning FT-IR imaging systems, respectively, using the spectral distance approach, and 0.22 mg/mL and 0.15 mg/mL using an optimal set of discrete frequencies. As expected, averaging and the use of post-processing techniques such as minimum noise fraction transformation results in LODs as low as ∼0.075 mg/mL that correspond to a spotted protein mass of ∼112 fg/pixel. We emphasize that these measurements were conducted at typical imaging parameters for each instrument and can be improved using the usual trading rules of IR spectroscopy. This systematic analysis and methodology for determining the LOD can allow for quantitative measures of confidence in imaging an analyte’s concentration and a basis for further improving IR imaging technology.
Determination and Monitoring of Quality Parameters: A Detailed Study of Optical Elements of a Lens-Based Raman Spectrometer
Authors: Mukherjee Ashutosh , Lorenz Anita , Brecht Marc
Published: October 2021

A lens-based Raman spectrometer is characterized by studying the optical elements in the optical path and we study the measure of aberration–diffraction effects. This is achieved by measuring the spectral resolution (SR) thus encompassing almost all optical elements of a spectrometer that are mostly responsible for such effects. An equation for SR is used to determine the quality factor Q which measures aberration/diffraction effects occurring in a spectrometer. We show how the quality factor changes with different spectrometer parameters such as grating groove density, the wavelength of excitation, pinhole width, charge-coupled device (CCD) pixel density, etc. This work provides an insight into the quality of a spectrometer and helps to monitor the performance of the spectrometer over a certain period. Commercially available spectrometers or home-built spectrometers are prone to misalignment in optical elements and can benefit from this work that allows maintaining the overall quality of the setup. Performing such experiments over a period helps to minimize the aberration/diffraction effects occurring as a result of time and maintaining the quality of measurements.
COVID-19 Restrictions Are Associated With a Significant Decrease of All Common Respiratory Viral Illnesses in Children
Authors: Randall Melanie M. , Despujos Harfouche Fairuz , Raae-Nielsen Jennifer , Chen Brian G. , Chen Miryah , Brown Lance A.
Published: October 2021

To combat the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), significant measures were enacted including school and business closures, social distancing, and facial coverings. We hypothesized that this would have an impact on all respiratory infections in children. Using nasopharyngeal panel test results of children in the emergency department, we evaluated cross-sectional data from February to May in both 2019 and 2020. Respiratory panel testing included 11 common respiratory viruses and bacteria. After the restrictions were enacted, we observed a large drop in the number and percentage positive of all common respiratory viral infections in 2020 compared with the same time in 2019. When analyzing data from children <2 years old, a similar decrease was seen. Restrictions enacted to prevent the spread of COVID-19 were associated with a significant decrease in respiratory viral infections in children of all ages. This association could guide future public health recommendations and guidelines.
Can women dynasty politicians disrupt social norms of political leadership? A proposed typology of normative change
Authors: Baker Kerryn , Palmieri Sonia
Published: October 2021

Social norms that legitimise men as political leaders, and undervalue women’s leadership, are a tenacious barrier to women’s representation globally. This article explores the circumstances under which women dynasty politicians, whose legacy connections have provided them with an initial pathway into politics, are able to disrupt these norms. We test a proposed typology of normative change – one that progresses from norm acceptance, to norm modification, then norm resistance – among women dynasty politicians in the Pacific Islands. We find that norms of masculinised political leadership are strong, and in many cases the election of wives, widows, daughters and other relatives of male political actors reinforces these norms through their positioning as ‘placeholders’. Yet some women dynasty politicians can, and do, challenge and extend social norms of leadership. This is especially the case when the ‘legacy advantage’ is a springboard from which women demonstrate – and their publics accept – their own articulation of political leadership.
Fate of Manuscripts Rejected by a Specialty Psychiatry Journal: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Menon Vikas , Jayaprakashan Karumarakandy Puthiyapurayil , Varadharajan Natarajan , Ameen Shahul , Praharaj Samir Kumar
Published: October 2021

Background:

Little is known about the publication outcomes of submissions rejected by specialty psychiatry journals. We aimed to investigate the publication fate of original research manuscripts previously rejected by the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine (IJPM).

Methods:

A random sampling of manuscripts was drawn from all submissions rejected between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2019. Using the titles of these papers and the author names, a systematic search of electronic databases was carried out to examine if these manuscripts have been published elsewhere or not. We extracted data on a range of scientific and nonscientific parameters from the journal’s manuscript management portal for every rejected manuscript. Multivariable analysis was used to detect factors associated with eventual publication.

Results:

Out of 302 manuscripts analyzed, 139 (46.0%) were published elsewhere; of these, only 18 articles (13.0%) were published in a journal with higher standing than IJPM. Manuscripts of foreign origin (odds ratio [OR] 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.06–2.97) and rejection following peer review or editorial re-review (OR 2.41, 95% CI = 1.22–4.74) were significantly associated with publication.

Conclusion:

Nearly half of the papers rejected by IJPM were eventually published in other journals, though such papers are more often published in journals with lower standing. Manuscripts rejected following peer review were more likely to reach full publication status compared to those which were desk rejected.
Management of adolescent anorexia with symptomatic bradycardia and frequent premature ventricular contractions: a case report
Authors: Chen Fuxu , Feng Chao , Song Jie , Xia Shudong
Published: October 2021

Syncope associated with bradycardia and ventricular arrhythmia is an indication of cardiac intervention. However, in adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa, the management of syncope and arrhythmia can be different. We present a case of a 17-year-old boy who was admitted to the hospital because of syncope during exercise. Electrocardiographic monitoring showed that his mean heart rate was 41 beats/minute, with many long pauses and frequent premature ventricular contractions. These results suggested that the syncope was probably caused by arrythmia. He had been on a diet and had lost 20 kg in the past 6 months, with a body mass index of only 15.3 kg/m2. He was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Pacemaker implantation or ablation was not performed. Refeeding therapy was performed with mirtazapine. A follow-up showed a stepwise increase in his heart rate and a stepwise decrease in premature ventricular contractions, with an increase in his body weight. The findings from this case show that vagal hyperactivity associated with anorexia nervosa might lead to multiple premature ventricular contractions and bradycardia.
A case of giant ameloblastoma: destructive effect on the facial skeleton and soft tissues of the head and neck
Authors: Lovásová Květuše , Borza Branislav , Kizek Peter , Almaši Milan , Kachlík David , Hodorová Ingrid
Published: October 2021

Ameloblastoma is a benign odontogenic tumor characterized by slow growth causing painless facial swelling. The tumor can behave locally aggressively, and may have direct destructive effects on the surrounding soft and hard tissues. This paper reports the unique case of a female patient with giant ameloblastoma of the mandible. Computed tomography (CT) revealed an enormous swelling of the left side of the face, resorption of the affected hemi-mandible, left maxilla, and tissues of the temporal, infratemporal, and pterygopalatine fossae. Pressure from the tumor resulted in displacement and destruction of the facial skeleton, upper aero-digestive tract structures, and some structures of the neck. The patient was treated by radical hemimandibulectomy with removal of the tumorous mass. Precise knowledge of the anatomical structures, and their locations and topographical relationships is required in the diagnosis and treatment plan for each surgical procedure in cases of giant ameloblastoma. CT imaging can be used to determine the extent and exact location of the lesion, revealing other important details that may help in selecting appropriate treatment.
A Speculative Lexicon of Entanglement
Authors: Lisle Debbie
Published: October 2021

This intervention offers a speculative lexicon to help students and scholars of global politics think critically and creatively about entanglement. It is neither definitive nor complete, but instead offers some possible points of entry into a contested field. It mobilises two particular claims: (1) that entanglement always involves both human and non-human entities; and (2) that entanglement is always emergent and in process. As a whole, this speculative lexicon is intended to help us sense the moment when entanglements intensify in ways that render them stable; attune to these durabilities in order to analyse their constitutive logics of inclusion/exclusion; acknowledge our own irrevocable entanglement in these logics; care for those bodies, lifeworlds, species and habitats that are targeted or abandoned by such logics; and craft mutual projects to disrupt, disaggregate and re-route these logics. Because entanglements are always emerging, dissipating and reconvening, the practice of navigating this open terrain is disorienting and often frustrating. We may desire a final destination where entanglements solidify and horizons magically appear, but giving in to that desire reproduces the violence of enclosure. This lexicon is offered as a way to keep the political terrain of entanglement open so we can collectively ensure that contestation remains a possibility.
A critique of innovation districts: Entrepreneurial living and the burden of shouldering urban development
Authors: Kayanan Carla M.
Published: October 2021

This article critically investigates the global trend toward urban innovation districts, a distinctly 21st-century spatial form. Innovation districts are a place-based, economic development strategy to concentrate the actors, entities, and infrastructure considered essential to process and product innovation. Built on the idea that today's innovation requires continuous interaction, the design of innovation districts incorporates a density of living and working amenities to accommodate a 24-7 live–work–play environment. At the heart of the innovation district strategies are the entrepreneurs meant to benefit from the built-in supports that help them scale their ideas and introduce products to the market. Despite an embrace by policymakers, to date, there has been little systematic analysis and critique of innovation district strategies or attempts to understand them as tools of neoliberal urban economic development. This article tracks how planners and other city development officials endorsed innovation districts during the Global Financial Crisis. The districts were a stopgap policy measure to accumulate economic benefits while waiting for market activity to resume. Furthermore, this paper argues that the emergence of innovation district strategy points to new governance arrangements that shift the burden of urban revitalization onto entrepreneurs who catalyze growth through their consumption and production activities. The findings are based on content analysis, site observations, and interviews with the creators, implementers, stakeholders, and users of innovation districts in Boston, St. Louis, and Dublin.
T2* reduction in patients with acute post-traumatic headache
Authors: Nikolova Simona , Schwedt Todd J , Li Jing , Wu Teresa , Dumkrieger Gina M , Ross Katherine B , Berisha Visar , Chong Catherine D.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Although iron accumulation in pain-processing brain regions has been associated with repeated migraine attacks, brain structural changes associated with post-traumatic headache have yet to be elucidated. To determine whether iron accumulation is associated with acute post-traumatic headache, magnetic resonance transverse relaxation rates (T2*) associated with iron accumulation were investigated between individuals with acute post-traumatic headache attributed to mild traumatic brain injury and healthy controls.

Methods

Twenty individuals with acute post-traumatic headache and 20 age-matched healthy controls underwent 3T brain magnetic resonance imaging including quantitative T2* maps. T2* differences between individuals with post-traumatic headache versus healthy controls were compared using age-matched paired t-tests. Associations of T2* values with headache frequency and number of mild traumatic brain injuries were investigated using multiple linear regression in individuals with post-traumatic headache. Significance was determined using uncorrected p-value and cluster size threshold.

Results

Individuals with post-traumatic headache had lower T2* values compared to healthy controls in cortical (bilateral frontal, bilateral anterior and posterior cingulate, right postcentral, bilateral temporal, right supramarginal, right rolandic, left insula, left occipital, right parahippocampal), subcortical (left putamen, bilateral hippocampal) and brainstem regions (pons). Within post-traumatic headache subjects, multiple linear regression showed a negative association between T2* in the right inferior parietal/supramarginal regions and number of mild traumatic brain injuries and a negative association between T2* in bilateral cingulate, bilateral precuneus, bilateral supplementary motor areas, bilateral insula, right middle temporal and right lingual areas and headache frequency.

Conclusions

Acute post-traumatic headache is associated with iron accumulation in multiple brain regions. Correlations with headache frequency and number of lifetime mild traumatic brain injuries suggest that iron accumulation is part of the pathophysiology or a marker of mild traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic headache.
Effect of antibody switch in non-responders to a CGRP receptor antibody treatment in migraine: A multi-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Overeem Lucas Hendrik , Peikert Andreas , Hofacker Maxi Dana , Kamm Katharina , Ruscheweyh Ruth , Gendolla Astrid , Raffaelli Bianca , Reuter Uwe , Neeb Lars
Published: October 2021

Background

Switching between antibody classes might be a treatment option in migraine patients who have not responded to one class of a CGRP-(receptor) monoclonal antibody (mAb), but there are no efficacy data so far. In this real-world analysis, we assessed the treatment response to a CGRP-mAb in patients that have previously failed the CGRP-receptor-mAb erenumab.

Methods

We analyzed retrospective headache diary data of 78 patients with migraine who switched between CGRP-mAbs classes at four German headache centers either due to lack of efficacy or intolerable side effects. Among these, we identified 25 patients who did not respond to erenumab after three treatment cycles (defined as <30% reduction of monthly headache days) and had complete headache documentation at least one month before and during both treatments. We assessed the ≥30% responder rate at month three after switching from erenumab to a CGRP-mAb (galcanezumab or fremanezumab) (primary endpoint). Secondary endpoints included ≥50% responder rate, monthly headache days, and monthly days with acute medication use. In an exploratory subgroup analysis patients were stratified for daily and non-daily headache.

Results

The switch from erenumab to a CGRP-mAb led to a ≥30% response in one-third (32%) of the patients after three treatment cycles. A ≥50% response was achieved in 12% of the patients. Monthly headache days were reduced in month three compared to baseline (20.8 ± 7.1 to 17.8 ± 9.1; p = 0.009). Stratified analysis revealed that no patient with daily headache (n = 9) responded to the treatment switch, while a 30% response was achieved by 50% of patients with non-daily headache (n = 16).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that a relevant proportion of erenumab non-responders might benefit from a treatment switch to a CGRP-mAb. Switching seems to be a promising treatment option especially in migraine patients with non-daily headache.
Effect of cutout geometry on the failure strength of symmetric laminates under uniform heat flux
Authors: Bayati Chaleshtari Mohammad Hossein , Jafari Mohammad , Khoramishad Hadi
Published: October 2021

The present work aims to investigate the thermal stress distribution in an infinite symmetrical laminated composite plate with a polygonal cutout to determine the laminate failure strength based on the first ply failure according to Hashin–Rotem and Tsai–Wu criteria. Lekhnitskii’s solution technique has been used to obtain the required potential functions. The extension of the technique used for the circular and elliptical cutouts into polygonal cutouts was performed using conformal mapping function in accordance with the procedure of complex variables. The main parameters such as cutout orientation, bluntness factor, the aspect ratio of the cutout, as well as stacking sequences in composite plates with symmetrical laminates made of glass/epoxy material containing triangular, square, pentagonal, and hexagonal cutouts have been examined. According to the research findings, it is possible to improve the failure strength of perforated plates by appropriate selection of cutout shapes along with the optimum values of the effective parameters. The unexpected result was that circular geometry was not always the best choice for the cutout because the selection of appropriate values for the parameters under consideration for a laminate with non-circular cutout leads to higher failure strength compared to the same plate with circular cutout.
Age and Social Background as Predictors of Dropout in Second Chance Education in Germany
Authors: Schuchart Claudia , Schimke Benjamin
Published: October 2021

Second chance education (SCE) has been established to offer adults the opportunity to catch up on higher qualifications, for instance the eligibility to study. SCE often suffers from high dropout rates, but little is known about the reasons. This article investigates whether dropout rates depend on family background and age, and if so, why. Data from 3278 students at an institution of SCE in Germany who entered this institution between 2000 and 2016 are analysed using logistic path modelling. The results show that the higher dropout probability of socially disadvantaged students can be traced back completely to poorer academic performance in SCE, partly associated with an unfavourable previous school career. Older students are – irrespective of their family background and despite a better academic performance – more likely to drop out than younger students. If SCE aims to reduce these dropout risks, strategies should vary for different groups of students.