bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammation and the Link to Vascular Brain Health: Timing Is Brain
Authors: Mun Katherine T. , Hinman Jason D.
Published: January 2022

Inflammation and its myriad pathways are now recognized to play both causal and consequential roles in vascular brain health. From acting as a trigger for vascular brain injury, as evidenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, to steadily increasing the risk for chronic cerebrovascular disease, distinct inflammatory cascades play differential roles in varying states of cerebrovascular injury. New evidence is regularly emerging that characterizes the role of specific inflammatory pathways in these varying states including those at risk for stroke and chronic cerebrovascular injury as well as during the acute, subacute, and repair phases of stroke. Here, we aim to highlight recent basic science and clinical evidence for many distinct inflammatory cascades active in these varying states of cerebrovascular injury. The role of cerebrovascular infections, spotlighted by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic, and its association with increased stroke risk is also reviewed. Rather than converging on a shared mechanism, these emerging studies implicate varied and distinct inflammatory processes in vascular brain injury and repair. Recognition of the phasic nature of inflammatory cascades on varying states of cerebrovascular disease is likely essential to the development and implementation of an anti-inflammatory strategy in the prevention, treatment, and repair of vascular brain injury. Although advances in revascularization have taught us that time is brain, targeting inflammation for the treatment of cerebrovascular disease will undoubtedly show us that timing is brain.
Effects of the Minimum Wage on Small Firms in China: Spillover Effects from Large Firms
Authors: Chen Qiaoyi , Chen Zhao , Guan Lin
Published: January 2022

This study investigates how minimum wage affects small firms through spillover effects from large firms. Using firm-level panel data from Anhui Province in China, we find that after a minimum wage increase, small firms will reduce workers’ wages and create jobs due to the inflow of displaced workers from large firms. This spillover effect is larger for micro firms and private firms, where minimum wage compliance tends to be lower. We also find that high-tech small firms are more affected than low-tech ones because of their greater demand for skilled labor. Our findings not only highlight the unintended consequences of minimum wage on small firms in China, but also help to explain the ambiguous employment effects of minimum wage on the covered sector in developing countries.
Mallomonas voloshkoae sp. nov. (Synurales, Chrysophyceae) and distribution of M. pechlaneri in mountain lakes of Siberia
Authors: GUSEV EVGENIY , NĚMCOVÁ YVONNE , KULIKOVSKIY MAXIM
Published: January 2022

Mallomonas voloshkoae sp. nov. was described from Russia based on silica-scale morphology studied by means of transmission and scanning electron microscopy. This species belongs to the section Striatae and is characterised by scales with wide anterior flanges, forming wing-like extensions. This species is most similar in scale ultrastructure to M. pechlaneri. Mallomonas voloshkoae was reported in four mountain lakes of the Transbaikal area and was found in acidic to slightly acidic conditions with very low values of specific conductance. Mallomonas pechlaneri was reported in Russia for the first time. This is the first record of this species after the description of this taxon in Europe. Mallomonas pechlaneri was found in three oligotrophic habitats in the Altay and Sayan Mountain areas.
Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) FluxByCldTyp Edition 4 Data Product
Authors: Sun Moguo , Doelling David R. , Loeb Norman G. , Scott Ryan C. , Wilkins Joshua , Nguyen Le Trang , Mlynczak Pamela
Published: January 2022

The Clouds and the Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) project has provided the climate community 20 years of globally observed top of the atmosphere (TOA) fluxes critical for climate and cloud feedback studies. The CERES Flux By Cloud Type (FBCT) product contains radiative fluxes by cloud type, which can provide more stringent constraints when validating models and also reveal more insight into the interactions between clouds and climate. The FBCT product provides 1° regional daily and monthly shortwave (SW) and longwave (LW) cloud-type fluxes and cloud properties sorted by seven pressure layers and six optical depth bins. Historically, cloud-type fluxes have been computed using radiative transfer models based on observed cloud properties. Instead of relying on radiative transfer models, the FBCT product utilizes Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) radiances partitioned by cloud type within a CERES footprint to estimate the cloud-type broadband fluxes. The MODIS multichannel derived broadband fluxes were compared with the CERES observed footprint fluxes and were found to be within 1% and 2.5% for LW and SW, respectively, as well as being mostly free of cloud property dependencies. These biases are mitigated by constraining the cloud-type fluxes within each footprint with the CERES Single Scanner Footprint (SSF) observed flux. The FBCT all-sky and clear-sky monthly averaged fluxes were found to be consistent with the CERES SSF1deg product. Several examples of FBCT data are presented to highlight its utility for scientific applications.
Assessing the Forecast Impact of a Geostationary Microwave Sounder Using Regional and Global OSSEs
Authors: Posselt Derek J. , Wu Longtao , Schreier Mathias , Roman Jacola , Minamide Masashi , Lambrigtsen Bjorn
Published: January 2022

Forecast observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) are conducted to assess the potential impact of geostationary microwave (GeoMW) sounder observations on numerical weather prediction forecasts. A regional OSSE is conducted using a tropical cyclone (TC) case that is very similar to Hurricane Harvey (2017), as hurricanes are among the most devastating of weather-related natural disasters, and hurricane intensity continues to pose a significant challenge for numerical weather prediction. A global OSSE is conducted to assess the potential impact of a single GeoMW sounder centered over the continental United States versus two sounders positioned at the current locations of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES) East and West. It is found that assimilation of GeoMW soundings result in better characterization of the TC environment, especially before and during intensification, which leads to significant improvements in forecasts of TC track and intensity. TC vertical structure (warm core thermal perturbation and horizontal wind distribution) is also substantially improved, as are the surface wind and precipitation extremes. In the global OSSE, assimilation of GeoMW soundings leads to slight improvement globally and significant improvement regionally, with regional impact equal to or greater than nearly all other observation types.

Significance Statement

This work seeks to determine the impact of a new geostationary microwave (GeoMW) sounder on tropical cyclone forecasts in particular, and on weather forecasts in general. It does so by assimilating simulated GeoMW sounder data into two different forecast models: one global and one regional. The data have a small positive impact globally, and a significant positive impact over the region viewed by the GeoMW instrument. In particular, assimilation of GeoMW data has a significant and positive impact on forecasts of tropical cyclone track, strength, and structure.
Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Non-cardiac Vascular Diseases: A Bibliographic Analysis
Authors: Lareyre Fabien , Lê Cong Duy , Ballaith Ali , Adam Cédric , Carrier Marion , Amrani Samantha , Caradu Caroline , Raffort Juliette
Published: January 2022

Research output related to artificial intelligence (AI) in vascular diseases has been poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate scientific publications on AI in non-cardiac vascular diseases. A systematic literature search was conducted using the PubMed database and a combination of keywords and focused on three main vascular diseases (carotid, aortic and peripheral artery diseases). Original articles written in English and published between January 1995 and December 2020 were included. Data extracted included the date of publication, the journal, the identity, number, affiliated country of authors, the topics of research, and the fields of AI. Among 171 articles included, the three most productive countries were USA, China, and United Kingdom. The fields developed within AI included: machine learning (n = 90; 45.0%), vision (n = 45; 22.5%), robotics (n = 42; 21.0%), expert system (n = 15; 7.5%), and natural language processing (n = 8; 4.0%). The applications were mainly new tools for: the treatment (n = 52; 29.1%), prognosis (n = 45; 25.1%), the diagnosis and classification of vascular diseases (n = 38; 21.2%), and imaging segmentation (n = 38; 21.2%). By identifying the main techniques and applications, this study also pointed to the current limitations and may help to better foresee future applications for clinical practice.
Applicant Perspectives on Virtual Otolaryngology Residency Interviews
Authors: Kraft Daniel O. , Bowers Eve M. R. , Smith Brandon T. , Jabbour Noel , Schaitkin Barry M. , O’Leary Miriam A. , Groblewski Jan C. , Young VyVy N. , Sridharan Shaum
Published: January 2022

Objective:

Residency interviews serve as an opportunity for prospective applicants to evaluate programs and to determine their potential fit within them. The 2019 SARS-CoV2 pandemic mandated programs conduct interviews virtually for the first time. The purpose of this study was to assess applicant perspectives on the virtual interview.

Methods:

A Qualtrics survey assessing applicant characteristics and attitudes toward the virtual interview was designed and disseminated to otorhinolaryngology applicants from 3 large academic institutions in the 2020 to 2021 application cycle.

Results:

A total of 33% of survey applicants responded. Most applicants were satisfied with the virtual interview process. Applicants reported relatively poor quality of interactions with residents and an inability to assess the “feel” of a geographic area. Most applicants received at least 11 interviews with over a third of applicants receiving >16 interviews. Only 5% of applicants completed >20 interviews. Most applicants believed interviews should be capped between 15 and 20 interviews. Most applicants reported saving >$5000, with over a quarter of applicants saving >$8000, and roughly one-third of applicants saving at least 2 weeks of time with virtual versus in-person interviews.

Conclusions:

While virtual interviews have limitations, applicants are generally satisfied with the experience. Advantages include cost and time savings for both applicants and programs, as well as easy use of technology. Continuation of the virtual interview format could be considered in future application cycles; geographical limitations may be overcome with in-person second looks, and increased emphasis should be placed on resident interactions during and prior to interview day.
Global Value Chain Resilience: Understanding the Impact of Managerial Governance Adaptations
Authors: Kano Liena , Narula Rajneesh , Surdu Irina
Published: January 2022

While COVID-19 has caused significant short-term disruptions in global value chains (GVCs), in the longer run, the pandemic will not be the primary catalyst in GVC evolution. As GVCs recover from the initial shock, managers will make GVC restructuring decisions guided by long-term strategic considerations. This article describes barriers that lead firm managers may encounter when rethinking location/control decisions for value chain activities and suggests that, in addition to structural changes, managerial governance adaptations are instrumental in enhancing GVCs’ long-term resilience. Lessons learned from responding to the pandemic can help managers enhance GVC efficiency in the increasingly uncertain global environment.
A Regression Discontinuity Design Framework for Controlling Selection Bias in Evaluations of Differential Item Functioning
Authors: Koziol Natalie A. , Goodrich J. Marc , Yoon HyeonJin
Published: January 2022

Differential item functioning (DIF) is often used to examine validity evidence of alternate form test accommodations. Unfortunately, traditional approaches for evaluating DIF are prone to selection bias. This article proposes a novel DIF framework that capitalizes on regression discontinuity design analysis to control for selection bias. A simulation study was performed to compare the new framework with traditional logistic regression, with respect to Type I error and power rates of the uniform DIF test statistics and bias and root mean square error of the corresponding effect size estimators. The new framework better controlled the Type I error rate and demonstrated minimal bias but suffered from low power and lack of precision. Implications for practice are discussed.
Impaired emotional intelligence is related to symptoms severity and suicidal attempts in depression
Authors: Ahmed Okasha Tarek , Mohammed Abdelsamei Afaf , Nader Radwan Doaa , Abdelkader Eissa Osama , Elrassas Hanan Hany
Published: January 2022

Objective:

Few studies demonstrated the impairment of perceived emotional intelligence ‘EI’ among depressed patients. This study aimed to assess the perceived EI in a group of depressed patients, and its association with different clinical characteristics.

Methods:

Forty-five patients diagnosed with depression were assessed by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and compared to 45 controls that were assessed by the Arabic version of General Health Questionnaire to exclude Psychiatric disorders. The Arabic version of Trait Meta-Mood Scale (TMMS) is used to evaluate EI in both groups.

Results:

Patients with depression showed significantly lower EI scores in the three parts of TMMS (repair, clarity and attention) compared to the controls ( p < .001). Patients showed significant difference in clarity subscale ( p = .005) and attention regarding severity of depression ( p < .001). Clarity of feelings was significantly higher in patients who suffered more than two episodes ( p = .012). Depressive patients with suicidal attempts showed significantly lower scores of repair ( p = .044) and attention ( p = .016) subscales. There were no significant differences of TMMS subscales between patients with and without suicidal ideation, sleep disturbance and somatic symptoms.

Conclusions:

The current study demonstrates impaired perceived EI among patients with depression that is correlated with symptom severity and suicidal attempts.
A Transdisciplinary Approach to Promoting Self-Determination: Collaboration Between Special Education Teachers and Music Therapists
Authors: Laura McAfee Anna , Cheek Aftynne E. , Hensch Maddy , Stone Lexi
Published: January 2022

Self-determination consists of essential skills for students with disabilities because it gives individuals the power to make decisions based on their own needs and desires. Self-determination includes areas such as choice-making, goal setting, and self-directed learning. Music therapy is a service that can be used to enhance self-determination for students within the educational setting. Through intentional collaboration, music therapists and special educators can bring together their expertise to promote self-determination in students with disabilities. As members of students’ Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs), both professionals are working towards the common interest of fulfilling individuals’ goals and needs. The authors of this manuscript outline and describe a three-step process for collaboration between music therapists and special educators to promote self-determination among students while also providing a vignette to demonstrate this practice.
Cutaneous ulceration as a presenting feature of type 1 lepra reaction: A case report
Authors: Hegde Pallavi , Jaiswal Deepti , Shetty Varsha M , Pai Kanthilatha , Rao Raghavendra
Published: January 2022

Reactions in leprosy represent sudden shift in the immunological response and are seen in 11–25% of affected patients. It can be seen before, during or after the completion of multidrug therapy (MDT). 1 Two types of reactions are recognized; Type 1 reaction (T1R), seen in borderline leprosy, affecting mainly skin and nerves; type 2 reaction (T2R) or erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL), seen in lepromatous leprosy, characterized by systemic features in addition to cutaneous lesions. Trophic ulcers and ulcerating ENL are well known entities while cutaneous ulceration in T1R is extremely rare; we describe an immune-competent woman with cutaneous ulceration as a presenting feature to highlight the need to recognize this entity at the earliest opportunity.
Social justice, health equity, and mental health
Authors: Bhugra Dinesh , Tribe Rachel , Poulter Daniel
Published: January 2022

There is considerable evidence to indicate that stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses are widely prevalent across nations. Research also shows that individuals with mental illnesses are likely to die 15–20 years younger than those who do not have these illnesses. In addition, they are more likely to experience delays in help-seeking leading to poor outcomes and are more likely to experience physical illnesses. Stigma and discrimination appear to play a major role in depriving people with mental illnesses of their basic rights. Their economic, political, social, and human rights are often ignored. In this article, we describe the capability to be healthy and basic principles of social justice related to mental health. We discuss findings of discrimination often embedded in laws of countries around the world in the context of basic human rights. We believe that clinicians have a key role as advocates for their patients. Clinicians and policymakers need to work together to bring about social and health equity.
Dealing With Conflicting Values in Policy Experiments: A New Pragmatist Approach
Authors: Oldenhof Lieke , Wehrens Rik , Bal Roland
Published: January 2022

Despite the “turn to values” in Public Administration, there is still a lack of empirical research in situ that investigates how various stakeholders in interaction develop strategies to deal with conflicting values over time. By using a new pragmatist approach, this article fills in this gap by investigating policy experiments in Dutch healthcare. The results show how professionals, citizens, and policymakers differently valued the worth of policy experiments, which manifested itself in multiple value conflicts. To deal with these conflicts, stakeholders adopted different strategies: colonization, compromising, prioritization, short-cutting, organizational enmeshing, and pilotification. The results show a shift from exclusive top-down strategies to inclusive multi-value strategies over time.
A computationally efficient torque and flux ripple reduction by active vector optimization approach using direct torque control–based model predictive torque control for matrix converter–fed permanent magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Anunciya JD , Sivaprakasam Arumugam
Published: January 2022

The Matrix Converter–fed Finite Control Set–Model Predictive Control is an efficient drive control approach that exhibits numerous advantageous features. However, it is computationally expensive as it employs all the available matrix converter voltage vectors for the prediction and estimation. The computational complexity increases further with respect to the inclusion of additional control objectives in the cost function which degrades the potentiality of this technique. This paper proposes two computationally effective switching tables for simplifying the calculation process and optimizing the matrix converter active prediction vectors. Here, three prediction active vectors are selected out of 18 vectors by considering the torque and flux errors of the permanent magnet synchronous motor. In addition, the voltage vector location segments are modified into 12 sectors to boost the torque dynamic control. The performance superiority of the proposed concept is analyzed using the MATLAB/Simulink software and the real-time validation is conducted by implementing in the real-time OPAL-RT lab setup.
Sinonasal Plasmablastic Lymphoma Arising in the Setting of Recurrent Nasal Polyposis in an Immunocompetent Individual
Authors: DiBlasi Marco , Jayne Christopher , McNamara Reilly , Iasiello Catherine , Colden Daryl
Published: January 2022

Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an aggressive, rare variant of B-cell lymphoma typically associated with human immunodeficiency virus and other immunocompromised populations. Most commonly found in the oral cavity, PBL can occasionally originate in the sinonasal tract. Diagnosis of PBL is difficult due to overlapping features with other malignancies; however, early detection and treatment are imperative given its aggressive clinical course. When in the sinonasal tract, the diagnostic process can be further complicated if the patient has a history of recurrent nasal polyposis. Described is the case of a 57-year-old immunocompetent male who initially presented with benign nasal polyposis, only to return a year after sinus surgery with a unilateral sinonasal mass consistent with PBL. As literature has yet to characterize this phenomenon, this article presents the first case reported of sinonasal PBL arising in the setting of recurrent nasal polyposis. This case emphasizes the importance of investigating sinonasal masses showing laterality, maintaining a high index of suspicion for malignancy, and keeping close surveillance of the patient after treatment of PBL.
Fibroangiolipoma of palatine tonsil: A case report and literature review
Authors: Lu Rui , Chen Xiong , Yin Shucheng , Li Zhiyong
Published: January 2022

Lipomas of the palatine tonsil are rare benign neoplasms in clinical practice. We present a case of palatine tonsillar fibroangiolipoma in a 50-year-old Chinese male with a history of multiple lipomas on the back and extremities. It was diagnosed based on histological examination and integrated analysis. Good wound healing and no evidence of recurrence were noted within 6 months follow-up after tonsillectomy. This article also puts a spotlight on the differential diagnosis of benign tonsillar tumors and reviewed recent relevant literature.
Trust and authority in the age of mediatised politics
Authors: Koivunen Anu , Vuorelma Johanna
Published: January 2022

This article examines the role of trust in the age of mediatised politics. Authority, we suggest, can be successfully enacted despite the disrupted nature of the public sphere if both rational and moral trust are utilised to formulate validity claims. Drawing from Maarten A. Hajer's theorisation of authority in contemporary politics, we develop a model of how political actors and institutions as well as the media employ both rational and moral trust performances to generate authority. Analysing a Finnish case of controversial investigative journalism on defence intelligence, we show how the media in network governance need to critically evaluate the authority performances of political actors while at the same time enacting their own authority performances to retain their position within the governing network and to manufacture trust among networked publics. This volatile position can lead to situations where the media compete for authority with traditional political institutions.
The interplay of inflammation and coagulation in COVID-19 Patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support
Authors: Zaaqoq Akram , Sallam Tariq , Merley Caitlin , Galloway Lan Anh , Desale Sameer , Varghese Jobin , Alnababteh Muhtadi , Kriner Eric , Kitahara Hiroto , Shupp Jeffrey , Dalton Heidi , Molina Ezequiel
Published: January 2022

Objective

Bleeding and thrombosis are common complications during Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) support for COVID-19 patients. We sought to examine the relationship between inflammatory status, coagulation effects, and observed bleeding and thrombosis in patients receiving venovenous (VV) ECMO for COVID-19 respiratory failure.

Study Design

Cross-sectional cohort study

Settings

Quaternary care institution.

Patients

The study period from April 1, 2020, to January 1, 2021, we included all patients with confirmed COVID-19 who received VV ECMO support.

Intervention

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Thirty-two patients were supported with VV ECMO during the study period, and 17 patients (53%) survived to hospital discharge. The ECMO nonsurvivors mean lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were markedly elevated in comparison to survivors (1046 u/L [IQR = 509, 1305] vs 489 u/L [385 658], p = 0.003). Platelet/fibrinogen dysfunction, as reflected by the low Maximum Amplitude (MA) on viscoelastic testing, was worse in nonsurvivors (65.25 mm [60.68, 67.67] vs 74.80 mm [73.10, 78.40], p = 0.01). Time-group interaction for the first seven days of ECMO support, showed significantly lower platelet count in the nonsurvivors (140 k/ul [103, 170] vs 189.5 k/ul [ 146, 315], p < 0.001) and higher D-dimer in (21 μg/mL [13, 21] vs 14 μg/mL [3, 21], p < 0.001) in comparison to the survivors. Finally, we found profound statistically significant correlations between the clinical markers of inflammation and markers of coagulation in the nonsurvivors group. The ECMO nonsurvivors experienced higher rate of bleeding (73.3% vs 35.3%, p = 0.03), digital ischemia (46.7% vs 11.8%, p = 0.02), acute renal failure (60% vs 11.8%, p = 0.01) and bloodstream infection (60% vs 23.5%, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

The correlation between inflammation and coagulation in the nonsurvivors supported with VV ECMO could indicate dysregulated inflammatory response and worse clinical outcomes.
Guanidinoacetate–creatine in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis: a case report
Authors: Ostojic Sergej M. , Ostojic Jelena , Zanini Dragana , Jezdimirovic Tatjana , Stajer Valdemar
Published: January 2022

Acute secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) is characterized by escalating neurological disability, with limited disease-modifying therapeutic options. A 48-year-old woman with acute SPMS being treated with interferon beta-1a and oral corticosteroids presented as a clinical outpatient with no disease-modifying effects after treatment. A decision was made to treat her with a combination of guanidinoacetate and creatine for 21 days. She had made clinical progress at follow-up, with the intensity of fatigue dropping from severe to mild. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed increased brain choline, creatine, N-acetylaspartate, and glutathione. Patients with SPMS may benefit from guanidinoacetate–creatine treatment in terms of patient- and clinician-reported outcomes; this requires additional study.
Morphological and immunohistochemical characterization and molecular classification of spontaneous mammary gland tumors in macropods
Authors: Hsu Tu Chun , Garner Michael M. , Kiupel Matti
Published: January 2022

Mammary gland neoplasms in macropods are uncommonly reported, and the morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics are incompletely described. The goal of this study was to describe the morphologic features of macropod mammary neoplasms and to determine the molecular subtypes of mammary carcinomas using a panel of antibodies against estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her-2), p63, smooth muscle actin (SMA), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Biopsy and necropsy specimens were examined from 21 macropods with mammary tumors submitted to Northwest ZooPath from 1996 to 2019. In accordance with the histologic classification of canine mammary tumors proposed by Goldschmidt and colleagues, tubulopapillary (2), tubular (10), and comedo-carcinomas (2), adenoma (1), lobular hyperplasia (3), fibroadenomatous hyperplasia (1), and mastitis (2) were diagnosed. Red kangaroos ( Osphranter rufus) were most commonly diagnosed with mammary carcinomas (79% of all carcinomas). Seven carcinomas had lymphovascular invasion and 2 also had pulmonary metastases. Six of these 7 carcinomas were classified as grade 3. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for all antibodies was performed on 9/14 carcinomas, and partial IHC was performed for 3 cases. All 12 carcinomas were immunoreactive for PR, 5 for ER, 9 for EGFR, and none for Her-2. Five of the 9 mammary carcinomas with complete IHC data were classified as luminal A subtype, and 4 were normal-like subtype. Accurate classification of mammary tumors in macropods based on morphology, immunohistological characteristics, and molecular subtype may be helpful in guiding clinical management, prognosis, and potential therapeutic targets.
Yokenella regensburgei, a novel pathogen in farmed American alligators
Authors: Balamayooran Gayathriy , Cooper Clark , Paul Narayan C. , Ferro Pamela J. , Rice Laura , Gomez Gabriel , Díaz-Delgado Josué
Published: January 2022

Increased acute mortality of farmed American alligators ( Alligator mississippiensis) was observed in various pens from 2 different farms in Louisiana over 2 years (2019-2021). A total of 14 alligators from multiple events of increased mortality were subjected to postmortem investigations. Except for one alligator with acute neurologic signs, no premonitory signs were observed. All animals had pneumonia (14/14), coelomitis (14/14), and intravascular short Gram-negative bacilli (14/14). Myocarditis (13/14) was common. Yokenella regensburgei was isolated from all alligators tested (13/13). These data suggest the respiratory tract may be a primary target system and could be involved in transmission, either through exhaled bacteria or through swallowing of contaminated respiratory fluids with passage through the feces. Available sensitivity data for Y. regensburgei in this study indicates in vitro sensitivity to aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, chloramphenicol, and trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole antibiotics. Yokenella regensburgei should be included in the differential diagnosis of septicemia and acute death in alligators.
Quantification of Titanium Release From Titanium Dioxide Impregnated Composites in Orthodontic Bonding—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Tavva Santosh Rahul , Gorantla Suresh , Muddada Vizia , Mahendra Tivanani V D , Lenka Ramoji Rao , Sah Sushila , Prasad Ratnavati , Duvvada Priyanka
Published: January 2022

Objective

To evaluate the quantity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles released into the artificial salivary medium from orthodontic composite impregnated with 1% weight/weight (w/w) and 5% w/w titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) used for bonding metal brackets, thereby eventually comprehending the permissible levels.

Materials and Method

Eighty freshly extracted teeth for orthodontic treatment were divided into 2 groups of 40 teeth each and were bonded with brackets containing 1% w/w and 5% w/w composite containing titanium dioxide nanoparticles and placed in an artificial salivary medium. Quantification of 1% w/w and 5% w/w composite containing titanium nanoparticles was done using inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy for 4 timely periods 24 h, 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months.

Results

In the teeth that received 1% TiO2, the amount of titanium released was greatest in 2 months with no significant release at later intervals. In the second group that received 5%, there was a significant release of titanium at all intervals, with highest release at second month. On comparing the 2 concentrations at 4 different time intervals, the quantities were significantly greater in the 5% group at all time frames, thus implying a significant increase in titanium released with an increase in concentration from 1% to 5%.

Conclusion

Titanium release was higher in 5% w/w composite containing nanoparticles than 1% w/w composite containing nanoparticles, and 1% and 5% concentrations can be used safely and are within the permissible limits.
Modified Hyrax for Microimplant-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion
Authors: Parekh Harshikkumar , Trivedi Rahul , Mehta Falguni , Patel Renuka , Joshi Niyanta
Published: January 2022

Temporary anchorage device-assisted rapid maxillary expansion has widened the horizon to treat adults having maxillary transverse deficiency without any surgical procedure. Three-dimensional custom modifications have also been developed, but they can be expensive. A modification of Hyrax screw with the use of lingual sheaths is suggested for microimplant-assisted rapid palatal expansion, which can be an easy to fabricate in-office and economical option.
Methodology to assess wind turbine blade throw risk to vehicles on nearby roads
Authors: Rogers Jonathan , Costello Mark
Published: January 2022

The public road setback distance is often an important factor that drives wind farm design. This paper outlines a methodology for assessing the risk imposed by blade throw at various road setbacks using a physics-based simulation approach. Given a road setback distance, Monte Carlo simulation is performed wherein blade throw parameters and vehicle locations are randomized. Potential collisions are determined using an “impact circle” approach which assumes that impact occurs if the vehicle is inside the impact radius of the blade fragment when it lands. This approach is exercised on several example turbines and risk levels are calculated for various road setbacks. The method is also applied to a notional wind farm with turbines located at a typical road setback distance. Results show that the blade throw risk imposed to vehicles on public roads for the example wind farm is extremely small and commensurate with risks imposed by everyday activities.
Association Between Symptom Burden at Initiation of a Graduated Return to Activity Protocol and Time to Return to Unrestricted Activity After Concussion in Service Academy Cadets
Authors: Aderman Michael J. , Brett Benjamin L. , Malvasi Steven R. , McGinty Gerald , Jackson Jonathan C. , Svoboda Steven J. , McCrea Michael , Broglio Steven P. , McAllister Thomas W. , Pasquina Paul F. , Cameron Kenneth L. , Houston Megan N.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Current consensus and position statements recommend that concussed patients be asymptomatic upon the initiation of the graduated return to activity (RTA) protocol. However, a significant number of concussed patients are beginning their RTA protocols while endorsing symptoms.

Purpose:

To characterize symptom endorsement at the beginning of the RTA protocol and examine the association between symptom endorsement and RTA protocol duration in service academy cadets.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was conducted with cadets at 3 US service academies. Postconcussion symptom inventories were recorded upon the initiation of an RTA protocol. The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool Symptom Inventory was used to classify participants into 3 groups (0 symptoms, 1 symptom, and ≥2 symptoms) upon the initiation of the RTA protocol. The primary outcome of interest was RTA protocol duration. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were calculated to estimate RTA protocol duration by symptom endorsement, sex, varsity status, academic break, and time to graduated RTA initiation. Univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the association between symptom endorsement at the initiation of the RTA protocol and RTA protocol duration (α < .05).

Results:

Data were analyzed from 966 concussed cadets (36% women). Headache (42%) and faintness/dizziness (44%) were the most commonly endorsed symptoms on the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-Third Edition and the Brief Symptom Inventory-18, respectively. Univariate results revealed a significant association between endorsing ≥2 symptoms and RTA protocol duration. In the multivariable model, endorsing ≥2 symptoms maintained a statistically significant association with RTA protocol duration. Significant associations were observed between RTA protocol duration and nonvarsity status (27% longer), women (15% longer), academic breaks (70% longer), and time to the initiation of the RTA protocol (1.1% longer daily incremental increase) after controlling for covariates.

Conclusion:

Symptom endorsement at the initiation of an RTA protocol was associated with RTA protocol duration. Cadets who had returned to preinjury baseline symptom burden or improved from baseline symptom burden and endorsed ≥2 symptoms at the initiation of the RTA protocol took longer to RTA.
Pitching Mechanics and the Relationship to Accuracy in Professional Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Manzi Joseph E. , Dowling Brittany , Wang Zhaorui , Luzzi Andrew , Thacher Ryan , Rauck Ryan C. , Dines Joshua S.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Biomechanical predictors of pitching accuracy are underevaluated in baseball research. It is unclear how pitchers with higher accuracy differ in terms of kinematics and upper extremity kinetics.

Purpose:

To differentiate high- and low-accuracy professional pitchers by full-body kinematic and upper extremity kinetic parameters.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

In total, 121 professional baseball pitchers threw 8 to 12 fastballs while assessed with motion-capture technology (480 Hz). Pitchers were divided into high-accuracy (n = 33), moderate-accuracy (n = 52), and low-accuracy (n = 36) groups based on the absolute center deviation of each pitcher’s average pitch to the center of the pitching chart by greater or less than 0.5 SD from the mean, respectively. The 95% confidence ellipses with comparisons of major and minor radii and pitching probability density grids were constructed. Analysis of variance was used to compare kinematic and kinetic values between groups.

Results:

The absolute center deviation (14.5% ± 6.7% vs 33.5% ± 3.7% grid width; P < .001) was significantly lower in the high-accuracy compared with the low-accuracy group, with no significant difference in ball velocity (38.0 ± 1.7 vs 38.5 ± 2.0 m/s; P = .222). Lead knee flexion at ball release (30.6°± 17.8° vs 40.1°± 16.3°; P = .023) was significantly less for the high-accuracy pitchers. Peak normalized shoulder internal rotation torque (5.5% ± 1.0% vs 4.9% ± 0.7% body weight [BW] × body height [BH]; P = .008), normalized elbow varus torque (5.4% ± 1.0% vs 4.8% ± 0.7% BW × BH; P = .008), and normalized elbow medial force (42.9% ± 7.3% vs 38.6% ± 6.2% BW; P = .024) were significantly greater for the low-accuracy group compared with the high-accuracy group.

Conclusion:

Professional pitchers with increased accuracy experienced decreased throwing arm kinetics. These pitchers had increased lead knee extension at later stages of the pitch, potentially providing more stable engagement with the ground and transference of kinetic energy to the upper extremities. Professional pitchers can consider increasing lead knee extension at the final stages of the pitch to improve the accuracy of their throws and mitigate elbow varus torque.

Clinical Relevance:

Increased elbow varus torque, shoulder internal rotation torque, and elbow medial force in less accurate pitchers may contribute to increased injury risk in this group.
Investigation of the effectiveness of magnetic field therapy in women with urinary incontinence: Literature review
Authors: Gözlersüzer Özlem , Yalvaç Bestami , Çakıroğlu Basri
Published: January 2022

Objective:

Magnetic stimulation (MS) provides a novel strategy for the treatment of urinary incontinence (UI), although its efficacy remains uncertain. This systematic review both evaluated the effects of MS treatment on UI and investigated its impacts on female patients’ life quality.

Methods:

A review of the literature that was conducted in EMBASE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library (2016–2021) with the search terms; Incontinence of stress OR urge of urination OR Urinary incontinence mixed type. The search was carried out for all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in English. A manual search has also been conducted for the reference lists of the studies found. Seven studies, with a total of 523 patients (475 patients with SUI), 12 urge urinary incontinence. The study included patients with (UUI) and 36 patients with mixed urinary incontinence (MUI). A total of 10 male patients were excluded from the study. In the included studies, The International Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form was used to investigate the effects of MS therapy on UI symptoms (ICIQ-SF).

Results:

According to the literature review, MS is an effective therapy option for female patients with UI. Still, to establish the efficacy of MS in this area, more large-scale, high-quality RCTs with extended follow-up periods that use consistent stimulation modalities and evaluate comparable outcomes are needed.

Conclusion:

MS treatment leads to an improvement in the symptoms of UI, in addition to an associated Improved quality of life for patients, without any reported side effects, while the longer-term treatment outcomes must be determined by long-term trials.
Development of hull material for high-altitude airship: A parametric study
Authors: Li Ang , Vallabh Rahul , Bradford Philip D , Kim David , Seyam Abdel-Fattah M
Published: January 2022

The development of hull material with ideal properties to meet all the operation requirements has posed the greatest challenge to flying the airship at high altitude for extended periods. Materials developed in our previous study with a laminated structure achieved high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent gas barrier property at a relatively low total weight. To optimize this novel design and obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the laminate properties, a parametric study involving lamination process parameters (temperature and time), and laminate structural parameter (reinforcement fabric construction), was conducted. The effects of lamination parameters on tensile, peel, tear and helium permeability tests were carried out to assess the laminates. It was found that the tensile strength of the laminate is predominantly determined by the fabric reinforcement material properties. The peel and tear strength results showed that increasing the lamination temperature from 185 °C to 200 °C improved respective strength values. Additionally, the analysis of failure modes and tear propagation suggested that laminate samples with progressive failure have better tear resistant property over those with brutal failure. Extremely low helium permeability was achieved, yet the gas barrier property was not affected by the lamination process parameters and fabric type.
Climate impact of an optimised gas treatment on old landfills
Authors: Berger Roland , Lehner Joachim
Published: January 2022

It is a well-established fact that the quality and quantity of landfill gas (LFG) start declining after a landfill is closed to further waste intake. Conventional gas treatment and utilisation systems such as flares and gas-driven engines require a certain quality of LFG: specifically, a sufficient methane concentration. Various measures are utilised to maintain the necessary quality of LFG, including a turn-down of gas extraction rates and a shutdown of low-quality gas wells, resulting in a decline of LFG production. This, however, does not have to be the case. The low calorific value (LCV) LFG capture and treatment technology developed by e-flox and referred to in this article as ‘LCV LFG System’ can significantly increase the collection rate and the amount of treated methane in an old landfill. This article introduces such new treatment measures, describes gas capture calculation methodologies and presents actual results based on a medium-sized landfill in Germany. The study demonstrates, among other things, that the LCV LFG system can reduce the CO2 avoidance costs to roughly 10 €/tCO2eq. We present this new technology as a quick and straightforward measure of dealing with the climate issues related to methane emissions of old landfills.
A Case of Unrelenting Facial Swelling
Authors: Chun Lindsay Y. , Phelps Paul O.
Published: January 2022

Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is an uncommon disorder with presenting symptoms that typically involve the face and orofacial structures. It is a difficult diagnosis to make, as it may present with a protracted course of seemingly unrelated dermatological, ocular, and neurological findings. This case report reviews the presentation, workup, and diagnosis of a 75-year-old woman who presented with orofacial swelling, facial palsy, and tongue fissuring that had intermittently recurred over 10 years without a unifying diagnosis. Extensive medical history, photography, laboratory workup, and radiographic imaging were performed to identify the diagnosis of MRS in this patient. Our case highlights the challenge and importance of critically evaluating and consolidating a patient’s history of their present illness, physical examination, and ancillary testing to successfully establish a unifying diagnosis, especially when the diagnosis is relatively rare and diverse in its range of affected populations and symptomatology.
Prevalence and Predictors of Palliative Care Utilization among Hospitalized Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Jackson Inimfon , Etuk Aniekeme , Jackson Nsikak
Published: January 2022

Objective: Research has shown that palliative care improves the quality of life of cancer patients; however, there is no literature on specific factors that predict its use in diffuse large b-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients. Therefore, the prevalence of palliative care utilization and predictors of palliative care utilization among patients with DLBCL were examined. Methods: Data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) collected between 2016 to 2018 were used for all analyses. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the predictors of palliative care utilization among hospitalized patients with DLBCL. Descriptive analyses were used to explore the overall prevalence of palliative care receipt in this population. Results: Of the 41,789 hospitalizations, 7.1% of patients used palliative care during hospitalization, while 4.8% utilized palliative care and were discharged alive. DLBCL patients aged 70 and older had 1.3 times (95% CI: 1.14-1.41) higher odds of utilizing palliative care compared to those less than 70 years. Relative to Medicare/Medicaid patients, those with other types of insurance were 1.7 times (95% CI: 1.34-2.05) more likely to receive palliative care. Those who were either transferred to a facility/discharged with home health (AOR: 6.23; 95% CI: 5.21-7.44) or died during hospitalization (AOR: 45.17; 95% CI: 36.98-55.17) had higher odds of receiving palliative care when relative to those with a routine hospital discharge. Other associated factors were type of admission, length of stay, chemotherapy receipt, and number of comorbidities. Conclusions: The prevalence of palliative care utilization was low and factors predicting utilization in our population were identified. Our findings highlight the need to increase awareness among medical oncologists on the need to involve the palliative care team early in the management of hospitalized patients with DLBCL.