bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of inferior vena cava injury and secondary thrombosis after percutaneous nephrolithotomy: a case report
Authors: Li Pan , Mao Dengjiu , Zhou Jie , Sun Hongmei
Published: November 2021

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) remains an important method for treating upper urinary calculi. However, bleeding and peripheral vascular injury are serious complications of PCNL. Injury of the inferior vena cava accompanied by secondary thrombosis has rarely been reported clinically. We treated a patient who experienced bleeding during PCNL to establish a channel. A catheter was used to make a renal fistula, and the inferior vena cava was implanted. The wound was fixed and compressed by balloon injection, and secondary thrombosis and repeated infection occurred after the operation. A filter was then placed, the water balloon was released, and the fistula was removed. The anti-bacterial and anticoagulant filter was removed. This major complication was successfully managed. In our patient, during PCNL, the renal fistula entered the inferior vena cava by mistake. If this issue cannot be treated in time, it can easily lead to the formation of secondary thrombosis. A fistula can be extracted through an inferior vena cava filter, and anticoagulant treatment and other conservative treatment regimens can be used to treat patients in this situation. These treatments avoid the possibility of further damage from open surgery.
E-Learning during COVID-19: Understanding the nexus between instructional innovation, E-psychological capital, and online behavioural engagement
Authors: Ahmed Umair , Ismail Abdussalaam Iyanda , Fati Meryem , Akour Mohammed Ali
Published: November 2021

This current study is to empirically validate the importance of student's behavioural engagement on online teaching during a coronavirus-2019 disease pandemic. The global spread of coronavirus-2019 disease has affected every aspect of business, including education, resulting in the shift of classroom to online teaching. Keeping in view the growing concern about students’ attentiveness, connectivity, participation, and interaction in online classes, the authors underlined the critical need for paying empirical attention to this issue. While addressing a major empirical gap, the present study tested and found the significant role of e-learning efficacy, e-learning resilience, and teachers’ instructional innovation in boosting students` online behavioural engagement. Additionally, the study found a thought-provoking direct and interacting role of teachers’ instructional innovation. Therefore, the implications of the findings indicate that leaders in educational institutions need to invest in psychological resources that emphasize innovation and creativity in instructional methods for teachers to enhance student engagement in an online environment.
Analysis and Assessment of Pulp Vitality of 102 Intrinsically Stained Teeth in Dogs
Authors: Feigin Kristina , Bell Cindy , Shope Bonnie , Henzel Scott , Snyder Christopher
Published: November 2021

Our prospective study analyzed clinical, radiographic, and histological characteristics of 102 intrinsically stained teeth. Sixty-nine dogs ranging from one to fifteen years of age were included in this study. Little more than half of the intrinsically stained teeth had no evidence of coronal injury (53.9%, 55/102). We found that most intrinsically stained teeth were histologically nonvital (87.6%, 85/97) and approximately 2/3 of these (57.7%, 56/97) had no histological endodontic or periodontal inflammation at the time of evaluation. Radiographic evidence of endodontic disease was present in 57% (58/102) of the intrinsically stained teeth. Radiographic evidence of periodontal disease was present in 48% (49/102) of intrinsically stained teeth and 28% (29/102) had radiographic evidence of tooth resorption. 18.6% (19/102) of intrinsically stained teeth were radiographically normal. Evidence of pulp necrosis was common in these intrinsically stained teeth, while only occasional teeth (12.4%, 12/97) had histologically confirmed pulpitis. All teeth with radiographic evidence of periapical lucency had pulp necrosis. Based on our histological findings, the majority of intrinsically stained teeth 87.6% are truly nonvital.
The pragmatic use of metaphor in empirical psychology
Authors: Gabriel Rami
Published: November 2021

Metaphors of mind and their elaboration into models serve a crucial explanatory role in psychology. In this article, an attempt is made to describe how biology and engineering provide the predominant metaphors for contemporary psychology. A contrast between the discursive and descriptive functions of metaphor use in theory construction serves as a platform for deliberation upon the pragmatic consequences of models derived therefrom. The conclusion contains reflections upon the possibility of an integrative interdisciplinary psychology.
A modified Zerilli–Armstrong constitutive model for simulating severe plastic deformation of a steel alloy
Authors: Gurusamy Muralimohan , Rao Balkrishna C
Published: November 2021

A modified Zerilli–Armstrong model has been proposed and validated in previous works for simulating distinct deformation mechanisms of continuous-shear and shear-localization during severe plastic deformation of a face centered cubic alloy. In this paper, the validity of the modified Zerilli–Armstrong model has been further tested by using it for modeling the severe plastic deformation of another face centered cubic material, a steel alloy. In particular, the modified Zerilli–Armstrong model is used as a constitutive relation for simulating behavior of AISI 1045 steel alloy while undergoing severe plastic deformation through orthogonal and plane-strain machining. Accordingly, the performance of the constitutive relation in predicting flow stress distribution along the primary shear zone is validated by comparing with forecasts made using the distributed primary zone deformation, the original Zerilli-Armstrong and Johnson-Cook models. Furthermore, finite element simulations of orthogonal cutting of this steel alloy were carried out, and good agreement was observed between the predicted chip morphology and attendant cutting forces with experimental values reported in literature for a range of cutting conditions. The force predictions also fared better compared to those predicted by using the Zerilli-Armstrong and Johnson-Cook models. These validations provide further corroboration of using the modified Zerilli–Armstrong model as a constitutive relation for simulating the behavior of face-centered cubic materials under conditions of high plastic strains and also high strain-rates.
A Simple guide to complex world of overtone and combination bands: Theoretical simulation and interpretation of NIR spectra – summary of the workshop at NIR-2021 Beijing Conference
Authors: Beć Krzysztof B
Published: November 2021

Between 18 and 21 October 2021, the 20th International Conference on NIR spectroscopy in Beijing took place. Despite this time being held as a virtual event, it was a highly successful symposium met with high interest from the wide audience – as evidenced by many excellent presentations, around which numerous vivid discussions developed. During the conference, four workshops were offered, focused at discussing few areas essential for NIR spectroscopy and its applications. Excellent workshops were provided by Professors Heinz Siesler, Hui Yan, Dolores Pérez-Marín and Tom Fearn, in which invaluable knowledge was shared with the participants of the conference. Among these renowned experts, I had the honour to offer my contribution with the workshop aimed at the physicochemical foundations of NIR spectroscopy, an area that seldom is exhaustively presented in the textbooks. The workshop aimed at shedding light on the complex world of overtone and combination bands and was met with a considerable interest from the participants. As many questions have been asked both during the dedicated Q&A session, as well as through other channels and private correspondence, I would like to provide a short recapitulation of the workshop in the form of this brief article. Some of the most essential ‘take home messages’, such as the origin of the intensity variation of the overtone bands and the famous ‘selection rule’ of the harmonic oscillator, among others will be briefly outlined here.
Acute corneal graft rejection after anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 vaccination: A report of four cases
Authors: Balidis Miltiadis , Mikropoulos Dimitrios , Gatzioufas Zisis , de Politis Penelope B , Sidiropoulos Georgios , Vassiliadis Vassilios
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study intends to add to previous reports on acute corneal graft rejection following anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 vaccination, providing data to corroborate a possible causative relationship between anti-COVID-19 immunization and corneal graft rejection, regardless of vaccine or graft type.

Methods and Results

This report describes 4 cases of acute-onset rejection as early as 5 days following the first dose of anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 vaccine types not yet referred for corneal allograft. Patients were individually given the Moderna messenger RNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine (2 patients) and the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria, AZD1222 (2 patients).

Conclusions

Even though a direct causative effect is hard to prove, temporal proximity between anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 vaccines of different types and consecutive reports of corneal graft rejection indicates the need for further investigation. Consistent advice must be given to corneal transplant patients regarding such risk.
Deceptive behaviour in autism: A scoping review
Authors: Bagnall Ralph , Russell Ailsa , Brosnan Mark , Maras Katie
Published: November 2021

The ability to deceive is a key milestone in social cognitive development for typically developing individuals. In this scoping review, we systematically searched the literature to summarise research on deceptive behaviour in autism and identify gaps in knowledge. Across the 28 studies identified, three main themes were synthesised, with seven subthemes: (1) Deception ability and prevalence (1a) gameplay deception; (1b) naturalistic deception; (2) Psychological correlates of deception (2a) verbal, intellectual and social ability; (2b) theory of mind (ToM) behaviours; (2c) executive function; and (3) Social learning (3a) training; (3b) social contexts. The findings challenge common stereotypes, showing that autistic individuals can and do engage in deception. However, many do so less frequently and less adeptly than typically developing individuals. Emerging evidence also suggests that autistic individuals (without co-occurring intellectual disability) may use compensatory strategies when engaging in deception, and that more skilled deceptive behaviour may arise later in life. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.

Lay abstract

The ability to deceive others is an important skill that usually develops in early childhood. In this review, we give an overview of studies that have examined deceptive behaviour in autistic children, adolescents and adults. We separated the study findings into three main categories and seven sub-categories: (1) Deception ability and prevalence (1a) gameplay deception; (1b) naturalistic deception; (2) Psychological processes in deception (2a) verbal, intellectual and social ability; (2b) ability to understand others’ thoughts and beliefs; (2c) cognitive ability; and (3) Social learning (3a) training; (3b) social contexts. Contrary to some stereotypes, we found that autistic people can and do deceive but often find this more difficult than non-autistic people. We also found that autistic people may use different psychological processes than non-autistic people when deceiving and may get better at deception in adulthood.
Digital medicines for adherence support: A conceptual framework and qualitative study of adherence among chronically ill patients
Authors: Castillo Anabel F , Davis Alexander L , Fischhoff Baruch , Krishnamurti Tamar
Published: November 2021

Digital medicine programs (DMPs) are emerging technologies that use sensor-enabled medicine to detect when patients have taken their medication and then provide feedback about adherence. We use qualitative methods to understand how patients change their behavioral patterns while participating in a DMP intervention. An influence diagram outlining the factors hypothesized to affect adherence in DMPs constructed from prior scientific research and expert input was created. Subsequently, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 patients to see if their experience supported the relationships outlined in the model. We identified three pathways by which DMPs are likely to change behavior around medication adherence: (1) providing patients and providers with accurate, personalized information about adherence; (2) improving patient–provider interactions by structuring them around this information; and (3) facilitating routines and habits for medication use. Chronically ill patients often fail to adhere to drug regimens. Patients in a DMP intervention used the DMP-provided information to better understand drug efficacy and collaborated with their physician to develop adherence strategies. DMPs can promote medication adherence among patients who are willing to use them and may be most effective if physicians are active partners in the DMP.
Methodical principles and prevention-focused outcomes in professional youth work: A longitudinal analysis
Authors: Sonneveld Jolanda , Metz Judith , Manders Willeke , Schalk René , Van Regenmortel Tine
Published: November 2021

Previous research has suggested that professional youth work settings empower socially vulnerable youngsters, strengthening their personal development and social participation. It is expected that youth work can prevent personal and social problems of youngsters, which may have longer term positive social returns. How the underlying methodical way of acting of youth workers contributes to prevention-focused outcomes remains unclear. This article presents a four-wave longitudinal cohort study (16 months) that investigated longitudinal associations between 12 individual methodical principles that youth workers apply in interactions with youngsters and four prevention-focused outcomes: prosocial skills, self-mastery, social network and civic participation. The sample consisted of 1,597 Dutch youngsters with a mean age of 16.5 years (SD = 3.60). Findings: Linear mixed models analysis found that all individual methodical principles were longitudinally associated with one or more outcome. The strongest associations were observed with regard to prosocial skills and civic participation. Depending on the outcome measure, methodical principles seem to be more effective for boys, for youngsters who participate for 3 years or longer in youth work settings and for youngsters between 10 and 19 years old. With regard to the effect of methodical principles on improving self-mastery, 9 of the 12 principles appeared to play no positive role in increasing self-mastery of youngsters. Applications: This study provides youth workers with a better understanding of which methodical principles are positively associated with prevention-focused outcomes as well as reinforcing the evidence-based practice of professional youth work.
Calcium Score Predicts Mortality After Revascularization in Critical Limb Ischemia
Authors: Megale Adalberto , Wolosker Nelson , Kalil Vitória , Nigro João , Wakisaka Carolina , Dias Bianca , Teivelis Marcelo , Rocha Marcelo , Mendes Cynthia
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

The calcium score is a measure of vessel wall calcification and has clinical applications when studied in different vascular beds. The presence of vascular calcification in the arteries of the lower limbs is very common in patients with peripheral arterial disease; however, its relationship with the postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing lower limb revascularization is still poorly studied. The aim of this study is to evaluate association between the calcium score of lower limbs and the postoperative outcomes in patients with peripheral arterial disease undergoing revascularization procedures.

Methodology:

We retrospectively analyzed 88 lower limb revascularization procedures in 72 patients with critical limb ischemia who had enhanced computed tomography for preoperative evaluation. The calcium score was calculated, from the angiographic phase of preoperative computed tomography, in the segments of the aorta, iliac, femoropopliteal, and infrapopliteal. It was also calculated the calcium score of the operated limb, and the total calcium score using a standardized method. The outcomes evaluated were the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction, amputation, patency, technical success, and death from any cause. Patients were followed up through a 12 month period.

Results:

Among the 88 procedures performed, 31 (43.1%) lesions were classified as Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus Document II D. There were 66 (75%) endovascular procedures, 16 (18.2%) open surgery, and 6 (6.8%) hybrid interventions. No statistically significant relationship was found between the calcium score of the segments (aorta, iliac, femoropopliteal, infrapopliteal, the operated limb, and total calcium score) and the outcomes of acute myocardial infarction, amputation, patency, and technical success in any of the periods analyzed. The calcium score of the operated limb was higher in patients who died within 30 days and 6 months (6571 vs 2590.6; p=0.026) and (5227.8 vs 2335.3; p=0.036).

Conclusion:

A standardized calcium score calculation method with the angiographic phase of the computed tomography is feasible and reproducible. Higher values of the calcifications of the operated limb are related to a greater chance of death in the postoperative period. The calcium score of the operated limb can be considered as a marker of clinical severity and prognosis in this group of patients
Combined Ultrasound Treatment with Transferrin-Coupled Nanoparticles Improves Active Targeting of 4T1 Mammary Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Jin Xiangzi , Yu Jie , Yin Meijiao , Sinha Amit , Jin Guangming
Published: November 2021

Objective: Conventional chemotherapy remains the mainstay treatment for many breast cancer patients, but its effectiveness is limited by toxic side effects. Incorporating drugs such as docetaxel into nanoparticle medicines can reduce toxicity but further improvements are required. To facilitate more active tumor targeting, we prepared transferrin-docetaxel-loaded pegylated-albumin nanoparticles (Tf-PEG-DANPS). Methods: The growth inhibitory effects and the ability of unmodified DANPS or PEG-DANPS to induce apoptosis in 4T1 mouse mammary cancers were compared to Tf-PEG-DANPS treatment using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and flow cytometry. These experiments were extended in vivo to the intravenous treatment of 4T1 tumors where PEG-DANPS was compared to Tf-PEG-DANPS alone or Tf-PEG-DANPS combined with ultrasound (US + Tf-PEG-DANPS). Histological assessments using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) sections were performed to examine antitumor activity, metastasis to lung and liver, and body weight measurements taken as an indicator of toxicity. Results: MTT experiments show that, in the normal and low concentration interval, the inhibition ability of the Tf-PEG-DANPS is higher than that of other drug-giving groups, and the flow cytometry show that the proportion of induced apoptosis in each given group is 2.88%, 42.95%, 48.23%, and 57.89%, indicating that the Tf-PEG-DANPS group has more significant ability to induce apoptosis than other drug-giving groups. From the pathological HE staining and semiquantitative analysis, US+Tf-PEG-DANPS can effectively inhibit the growth of breast cancer transplanted tumors and suppress metastases, it also has smaller toxic side effects on mice. Conclusion: The antitumor effect of US+Tf-PEG-DANPS represents an effective combination that exhibits increased antitumor activity and metastasis reduction with an improved side-effect profile.
A PCC-Ensemble-TCN model for wind turbine icing detection using class-imbalanced and label-missing SCADA data
Authors: Ding Shenyi , Wang Zhijie , Zhang Jue , Han Fang , Gu Xiaochun , Song Guangxiao
Published: November 2021

Blade icing problems are ubiquitous for wind turbines located in cold climate zones. Data-driven indirect icing detection methods based on supervisory control and data acquisition system have shown strong potential recently. However, the supervisory control and data acquisition data is annotated through manual observation, which will cause the data between normal condition and icing condition to be unlabeled. In addition, the amount of normal data is far more than icing data. The above two issues restrict the performance of most current data-driven models. In order to solve the label missing problem, this article proposes a Pearson correlation coefficient–based algorithm for measuring the degree of blade icing, which calculates the similarity between the unlabeled data and the icing data as its label. Aiming at the class-imbalance problem, this article constructs multiple class-balanced subsets from the original dataset by under-sampling the normal data. Temporal convolutional networks are trained to extract features and make predictions on each subset. The final prediction result is obtained by ensembling the prediction results of all temporal convolutional network models. The proposed model is validated using the actual supervisory control and data acquisition data collected from a wind farm in northern China, and the results indicate that ensuring the consecutiveness and class-balance of the data are quite advantageous for improving the detection accuracy.
Enhancement the Mycosynthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles by Using Gamma Radiation
Authors: Amin Basma H. , Ahmed Hanaa Y. , El Gazzar Eman M. , Badawy Monda M. M.
Published: November 2021

Selenium is a fundamental trace element of the living system. Microorganisms play a crucial role in the selenium cycle, both in the environment and in life. Biogenic selenium nanoparticles have shown promising prospects for use in medicine as an antioxidant and anticancer agent. In this study, SeNPs were biosynthesized by Penicillium citrinum. The spore suspension which was previously prepared was exposed to different doses of gamma radiation (10, 20, 30, 50, and 60 Gy). SeNPs were then produced by an irradiated P citrinum. UV spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and GSH content were assayed to evaluate the probability of P citrinum synthesizing SeNPs. In conclusion, irradiation of P citrinum by gamma ray enhances the mycosynthesis of SeNPs.
Lessons learnt from transitioning to online mentoring and learning at university during COVID-19 for adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Gobec Charlotte , Turnbull Matthew , Rillotta Fiona
Published: November 2021

Background:

COVID-19 influenced education delivery worldwide. The Up the Hill Project (UTHP), a university mentoring program in Australia for people with intellectual disability, transitioned from a face-to-face to online format during 2020.

Results:

The experience of transitioning online for one semester (12-week period) had positives and challenges associated with it. The UTHP Coordinator reported initial doubts for the online mode and identified the importance of at home support. However, the experience has opened up avenues for future program practices, such as intake processes and increased flexibility. From the participants’ perspective, the online experience supported participants to develop new technology skills. However, challenges were that participants needed support, and missed face-to-face contact.

Conclusion:

Online mentoring in the UTHP had challenges, but has also supported continuation of university programs. Lessons learnt will influence the development of the UTHP in some capacity into the future.
Epigenetic modifications in neuropathic pain
Authors: Luo Danzhi , Li Xiaohong , Tang Simin , Song Fuhu , Li Wenjun , Xie Guiling , Liang Jinshu , Zhou Jun
Published: November 2021

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common symptom in many diseases of the somatosensory nervous system, which severely affects the patient’s quality of life. Epigenetics are heritable alterations in gene expression that do not cause permanent changes in the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modifications can affect gene expression and function and can also mediate crosstalk between genes and the environment. Increasing evidence shows that epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modification, non-coding RNA, and RNA modification, are involved in the development and maintenance of NP. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge of epigenetic modifications in the development and maintenance of NP. Then, we illustrate different facets of epigenetic modifications that regulate gene expression and their crosstalk. Finally, we discuss the burgeoning evidence supporting the potential of emerging epigenetic therapies, which has been valuable in understanding mechanisms and offers novel and potent targets for NP therapy.
Newly developed dual topoisomerase inhibitor P8-D6 is highly active in ovarian cancer
Authors: Flörkemeier Inken , Steinhauer Tamara N. , Hedemann Nina , Ölander Magnus , Artursson Per , Clement Bernd , Bauerschlag Dirk O.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Ovarian cancer (OvCa) constitutes a rare and highly aggressive malignancy and is one of the most lethal of all gynaecologic neoplasms. Due to chemotherapy resistance and treatment limitations because of side effects, OvCa is still not sufficiently treatable. Hence, new drugs for OvCa therapy such as P8-D6 with promising antitumour properties have a high clinical need. The benzo[ c]phenanthridine P8-D6 is an effective inductor of apoptosis by acting as a dual topoisomerase I/II inhibitor.

Methods:

In the present study, the effectiveness of P8-D6 on OvCa was investigated in vitro. In various OvCa cell lines and ex vivo primary cells, the apoptosis induction compared with standard therapeutic agents was determined in two-dimensional monolayers. Expanded by three-dimensional and co-culture, the P8-D6 treated cells were examined for changes in cytotoxicity, apoptosis rate and membrane integrity via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Likewise, the effects of P8-D6 on non-cancer human ovarian surface epithelial cells and primary human hepatocytes were determined.

Results:

This study shows a significant P8-D6-induced increase in apoptosis and cytotoxicity in OvCa cells which surpasses the efficacy of well-established drugs like cisplatin or the topoisomerase inhibitors etoposide and topotecan. Non-cancer cells were affected only slightly by P8-D6. Moreover, no hepatotoxic effect in in vitro studies was detected.

Conclusion:

P8-D6 is a strong and rapid inductor of apoptosis and might be a novel treatment option for OvCa therapy.
Believe in me: Parties’ Strategies During a Pandemic, Evidence from Ecuador
Authors: Abad Cisneros Angélica , Aldaz Peña Raúl , Dávila Gordillo Diana , Vallejo Vera Sebastián
Published: November 2021

There is a growing interest to evaluate the political aftermath of the pandemic. We study how parties attract voters under the redistributive pressure created by COVID-19, looking into the 2021 Ecuadorian elections. We classify the messages that candidates sent, evaluate if and how candidates used COVID-19 to mobilize voters, and assess how voters reacted to them. We followed 858 virtual events and gathered more than 1’575.000 tweets from candidates and their communities. We find that candidates did not place COVID-19 at the center of their strategies but used it to connect with symbolic messages about the capabilities of parties and candidates. Twitter users had a limited engagement with COVID-19-related content. These findings nuance our expectations of the pandemic. COVID-19 was only an element rather than the core of electoral strategies. Our empirical approach can be easily extended to other cases where in-person events are still limited.
Demographic Variation in Chronic Rhinosinusitis by Subtype and Region: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ma Cheng , Mehta Neil K. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Gudis David A. , Miglani Amar , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: November 2021

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) describes a heterogenous group of diseases including CRS with (CRSwNP) or without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), and allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS). It affects 10 to 15% of the US population and is more common in women and White patients. However, these estimates are based on survey and database studies with innate diagnostic inaccuracy. Additionally, few studies report subtype-specific demographics. We explore the demographic differences of CRS in the U.S. by subtype and region.

Objective

To characterize demographic differences between the CRS population and the overall US population, and also between different CRS subtype populations.

Methods

We performed a systematic review for articles reporting on US demographics of adults with CRS. Study participants were required to have been diagnosed using consensus criteria. Data on demographics, geographic region, and CRS subtype were analyzed.

Results

Our study analyzed 31 unique studies representing 8409 patients with 50.7% females and weighted mean age of 48.0 years. Compared to the overall US population, CRS patients were predominantly White (78.5%) and non-Hispanic (94.5%) with under-representation of other races. Grouped by subtype, CRSwNP affected a significantly higher proportion of men (59.8%). AFRS affected a significantly higher proportion of Black patients (53.8%) while CRSsNP was more prevalent in White patients (84.2%). When grouped by region, the South had a significantly higher proportion of female (53%) and Black (17.8%) CRS patients. The West had a significantly higher proportion of Asian (4.5%) and Hispanic (12.3%) patients.

Conclusions

Significant demographic differences exist in CRS patients based on subtype and region. These data provide an estimation of the demographic make-up of CRS, but further high-level demographic studies are needed.
Complex, Isolated Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation in Two Children With Severe Cyanosis.
Authors: AL-Ammouri Iyad , Rabadi Alexander , Abdel Hafez Sufian , Al-Taher Raed , Bani Hani Amjad , Samara Osama A , Abu Abeeleh Mahmood
Published: November 2021

We present two cases of Isolated complex pulmonary arteriovenous malformations in two children presenting with cyanosis and exercise intolerance. We present the anatomical features and the management of each case. One patient was treated with surgical ligation of the draining vein, and one patient was treated percutaneously by closure of the feeding segmental artery.
Renewable Power Potential from Municipal Solid Waste: A Case Study in Jiangxi, China
Authors: Muhammad Aftab Rafiq , Zhang Liguo , Kung Chih-Chun
Published: November 2021

Development of renewable energy is important to modern society because climate change induced from fossil use has resulted in severe and possibly irreversible environmental impacts such as sea level rise, desertification, diminished land productivity, and increased possibility of extreme events. Therefore, the utilization of renewable and clean energy not only increases regional energy security but also alleviate the environmental risk. In this study, we employ the lifecycle assessment to examine the electricity generation from the use of municipal solid waste in China, and then investigate the emission reduction from this application. Different supply patterns of the wastes are also compared to make the results more robust. The results show that if recycled wastes are fully utilized, approximately 11,107 GWh can be generated, along with a profit of $1.2 billion from energy sales. In this case, the CO2 emission will reduce by 9.7 million metric tons. If the food waste is used in compositing and animal feed, the net power generation and emission reduction are about 8,216 GWh and 7.32 million metric tons, respectively. If additional 30% of recycled wastes are assumed to be utilized in their past use, the power generation, profit, and emission reduction will further decrease to 5,750 GWh, $697 million, and 5.12 metric tons, respectively. The results point out that the utilization of recycled wastes can effectively reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, improve energy security, and increase social welfare. Insights of the results and policy implications are also discussed in detail.
Provider Perceptions of Barriers to HIV Care Among Women with HIV in Miami-Dade County, Florida, and Possible Solutions: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ward Melissa K. , de la Cruz Yazmine , Fernandez Sofia B. , Ibañez Gladys E. , Jean-Gilles Michèle , Dévieux Jessy G. , Brock Petra , Ladner Robert , Beach Mary Catherine , Trepka Mary Jo
Published: November 2021

In Miami-Dade County, women with HIV (WWH) enrolled in Ryan White Program (RWP) services belong to groups that have historically faced structural barriers to care. To examine provider perceptions of WWH's barriers to care and elicit possible solutions, we conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 20) with medical case managers and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) healthcare providers from medical case management sites serving WWH enrolled in the Miami-Dade RWP. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed thematically by two coders through an iterative process; disagreements were resolved through consensus. Barriers included lack of disclosure and stigma, additional psychosocial barriers to care, structural and logistical barriers, and negative interactions with health care providers. Participant suggestions to address these barriers included strategies that support women and foster individualized services that are responsive to their lived experiences and needs. Other solutions, such as those related to transportation, housing, and general funding for the RWP, will require advocacy and policy change.
Deconstructing Mason’s (un)safe (un)certainty
Authors: Mc Kenny Richard
Published: November 2021

Barry Manson’s safe uncertainty framework has had a significant influence on the fields of systemic psychotherapy and systemic social work. His original 1993 paper has been cited more than 300 times, and a range of interpretations offered and applications proffered. I offer a deconstructive reading of Mason’s 1993 paper, in order to better understand this phenomenon. I focus on issues of style, rhetoric, expositional emphasis, and word choice – why does Mason choose ‘safe’ rather than ‘secure’? Using analysis by Boholm and colleagues, I set out the semantic pros and cons of using ‘safe’ and ‘secure,’ arguing that, on balance, ‘secure’ is the more appropriate word for Mason’s purposes. I then explore Mason’s reporting of practice, in particular the shift over time from indirect to direct reporting of speech. I argue this shift underpins efforts by Mason to clarify his use of safe uncertainty. Mason’s changing use of voice strongly supports the claim that his framework should not be applied to the analysis of, or responses to safeguarding, risk and protection dilemmas, for which more appropriate frameworks are available.
Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction combined with biplanar supracondylar femoral derotation osteotomy in recurrent patellar dislocation with increased femoral internal torsion and genu valgum: a retrospective pilot study
Authors: Deng Xiangtian , Li Lingzhi , Zhou Peng , Deng Fuyuan , Li Yuan , He Yanwei , Chen Ge , Li Zhong , Liu Juncai
Published: November 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes after medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction combined with supracondylar biplanar femoral derotation osteotomy (FDO) in recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD) with increased femoral anteversion angle (FAA) and genu valgum.

Methods

Between January 2017 to December 2020, a total of 13 consecutive patients (13 knees, 4 males and 9 females, mean age 18.7 (range, 15–29 years) with RPD with increased FAA (FAA > 25°) and genu valgum (mechanical axis deformity of ≥5°) who underwent supracondylar biplanar FDO using a Tomofix-locking plate combined with MPFL reconstruction in our institution were included. Preoperative full-leg standing radiographs, lateral views, and hip-knee-ankle computed tomography (CT) scans were used to evaluate the mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), anatomical femorotibial angle (aFTA), mechanical axis, patellar height, tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, and torsional angle of the tibial and femoral in the axial plane. Patient reported outcomes were evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Kujala score, Lysholm score, visual analog scale (VAS), and Tegner score preoperatively and postoperatively. Postoperative CT scans were used to evaluate the changes of FAA and TT-TG, and full-leg standing radiographs was used to evaluate the changes of mLDFA, aFTA, and mechanical axis.

Results

A total of 13 patients (13 knees) were included with an average follow-up period of 26.7 months (range 24–33). No cases developed wound infection, soft tissue irritation, and recurrent patellar dislocation during the follow-up period after surgery. Bone healing at the osteotomy site was achieved in all cases, and all patients regained full extension and flexion. Clinical outcomes (VAS, Kujala, IKDC, Lysholom, and Tegner scores) improved significantly at the final follow-up after surgery (p < 0.05). The mean mLDFA, aFTA, mechanical axis, and TT-TG distance showed statistically significant improvement following the combined surgery (p < 0.05), while the CDI did not change significantly after surgery (p>0.05).

Conclusion

MPFL reconstruction combined with supracondylar biplanar FDO showed satisfactory clinical outcomes and radiographic results in the short-term follow-up period.
Impact of cooling method on the outcome of initial shockable or non-shockable out of hospital cardiac arrest patients receiving target temperature management: a nationwide multicentre cohort study
Authors: Watanabe Makoto , Matsuyama Tasuku , Oe Hikaru , Sasaki Makoto , Nakamura Yuki , Miyamoto Yuki , Okada Nobunaga , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Ohta Bon
Published: November 2021

Background

Little is known about the effectiveness of surface cooling (SC) and endovascular cooling (EC) on the outcome of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients receiving target temperature management (TTM) according to their initial rhythm.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed data from the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine Out‐of‐Hospital Cardiac Arrest registry, a multicentre, prospective nationwide database in Japan. For our analysis, OHCA patients aged ≥ 18 years who were treated with TTM between June 2014 and December 2017 were included. The primary outcome was 30-day survival with favourable neurological outcome defined as a Glasgow–Pittsburgh cerebral performance category score of 1 or 2. Cooling methods were divided into the following groups: SC (ice packs, fans, air blankets, and surface gel pads) and EC (endovascular catheters and any dialysis technique). We investigated the efficacy of the two categories of cooling methods in two different patient groups divided according to their initially documented rhythm at the scene (shockable or non-shockable) using multivariable logistic regression analysis and propensity score analysis with inverse probability weighting (IPW).

Results

In the final analysis, 1082 patients were included. Of these, 513 (47.4%) had an initial shockable rhythm and 569 (52.6%) had an initial non-shockable rhythm. The proportion of patients with favourable neurological outcomes in SC and EC was 59.9% vs. 58.3% (264/441 vs. 42/72), and 11.8% (58/490) vs. 21.5% (17/79) in the initial shockable patients and the initial non-shockable patients, respectively. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, differences between the two cooling methods were not observed among the initial shockable patients (adjusted odd ratio [AOR] 1.51, 95% CI 0.76–3.03), while EC was associated with better neurological outcome among the initial non-shockable patients (AOR 2.21, 95% CI 1.19–4.11). This association was constant in propensity score analysis with IPW (OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.83–2.36; OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.01–3.47 among the initial shockable and non-shockable patients, respectively).

Conclusion

We suggested that the use of EC was associated with better neurological outcomes in OHCA patients with initial non-shockable rhythm, but not in those with initial shockable rhythm. A TTM implementation strategy based on initial rhythm may be important.
Disentangling environmental effects in microbial association networks
Authors: Deutschmann Ina Maria , Lima-Mendez Gipsi , Krabberød Anders K. , Raes Jeroen , Vallina Sergio M. , Faust Karoline , Logares Ramiro
Published: November 2021

Background

Ecological interactions among microorganisms are fundamental for ecosystem function, yet they are mostly unknown or poorly understood. High-throughput-omics can indicate microbial interactions through associations across time and space, which can be represented as association networks. Associations could result from either ecological interactions between microorganisms, or from environmental selection, where the association is environmentally driven. Therefore, before downstream analysis and interpretation, we need to distinguish the nature of the association, particularly if it is due to environmental selection or not.

Results

We present EnDED (environmentally driven edge detection), an implementation of four approaches as well as their combination to predict which links between microorganisms in an association network are environmentally driven. The four approaches are sign pattern, overlap, interaction information, and data processing inequality. We tested EnDED on networks from simulated data of 50 microorganisms. The networks contained on average 50 nodes and 1087 edges, of which 60 were true interactions but 1026 false associations (i.e., environmentally driven or due to chance). Applying each method individually, we detected a moderate to high number of environmentally driven edges—87% sign pattern and overlap, 67% interaction information, and 44% data processing inequality. Combining these methods in an intersection approach resulted in retaining more interactions, both true and false (32% of environmentally driven associations). After validation with the simulated datasets, we applied EnDED on a marine microbial network inferred from 10 years of monthly observations of microbial-plankton abundance. The intersection combination predicted that 8.3% of the associations were environmentally driven, while individual methods predicted 24.8% (data processing inequality), 25.7% (interaction information), and up to 84.6% (sign pattern as well as overlap). The fraction of environmentally driven edges among negative microbial associations in the real network increased rapidly with the number of environmental factors.

Conclusions

To reach accurate hypotheses about ecological interactions, it is important to determine, quantify, and remove environmentally driven associations in marine microbial association networks. For that, EnDED offers up to four individual methods as well as their combination. However, especially for the intersection combination, we suggest using EnDED with other strategies to reduce the number of false associations and consequently the number of potential interaction hypotheses.
Leave no stone unturned: individually adapted xerotolerant Thaumarchaeota sheltered below the boulders of the Atacama Desert hyperarid core
Authors: Hwang Yunha , Schulze-Makuch Dirk , Arens Felix L. , Saenz Johan S. , Adam Panagiotis S. , Sager Christof , Bornemann Till L. V. , Zhao Weishu , Zhang Ying , Airo Alessandro , Schloter Michael , Probst Alexander J.
Published: November 2021

Background

The hyperarid core of the Atacama Desert is an extremely harsh environment thought to be colonized by only a few heterotrophic bacterial species. Current concepts for understanding this extreme ecosystem are mainly based on the diversity of these few species, yet a substantial area of the Atacama Desert hyperarid topsoil is covered by expansive boulder accumulations, whose underlying microbiomes have not been investigated so far. With the hypothesis that these sheltered soils harbor uniquely adapted microbiomes, we compared metagenomes and geochemistry between soils below and beside boulders across three distantly located boulder accumulations in the Atacama Desert hyperarid core.

Results

Genome-resolved metagenomics of eleven samples revealed substantially different microbial communities in soils below and beside boulders, despite the presence of shared species. Archaea were found in significantly higher relative abundance below the boulders across all samples within distances of up to 205 km. These key taxa belong to a novel genus of ammonia-oxidizing Thaumarchaeota, Candidatus Nitrosodeserticola. We resolved eight mid-to-high quality genomes of this genus and used comparative genomics to analyze its pangenome and site-specific adaptations. Ca. Nitrosodeserticola genomes contain genes for ammonia oxidation, the 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate carbon fixation pathway, and acetate utilization indicating a chemolithoautotrophic and mixotrophic lifestyle. They also possess the capacity for tolerating extreme environmental conditions as highlighted by the presence of genes against oxidative stress and DNA damage. Site-specific adaptations of the genomes included the presence of additional genes for heavy metal transporters, multiple types of ATP synthases, and divergent genes for aquaporins.

Conclusion

We provide the first genomic characterization of hyperarid soil microbiomes below the boulders in the Atacama Desert, and report abundant and highly adapted Thaumarchaeaota with ammonia oxidation and carbon fixation potential. Ca. Nitrosodeserticola genomes provide the first metabolic and physiological insight into a thaumarchaeal lineage found in globally distributed terrestrial habitats characterized by various environmental stresses. We consequently expand not only the known genetic repertoire of Thaumarchaeota but also the diversity and microbiome functioning in hyperarid ecosystems.