bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastric Pneumatosis with Portal Venous Gas can be Treated Non‐operatively: A Retrospective Multi‐institutional Study
Authors: Epin Antoine , Passot Guillaume , Christou Niki , Monneuse Olivier , Mabrut Jean‐Yves , Ferrero Pierre‐Alexandre , Caudron Sebastien , Pezet Denis , Magnin Benoit , Grange Rémi , Lambert Céline , Williet Nicolas , Flaris Alexandros N. , Le Roy Bertrand
Published: February 2022

Background

Gastric pneumatosis (GP) is a rare radiologic finding with an unpredictable prognosis. The aim of this study was to identify mortality risk factors from patients presenting with GP on computed tomography (CT), and to develop a model which would allow us to predict which patients would benefit most from operative management.

Methods

Between 2010 and 2020, all CT‐scan reports in four tertiary centers were searched for the following terms: “gastric pneumatosis,” “intramural gastric air” or “emphysematous gastritis.” The retrieved CT scans were reviewed by a senior surgeon and a senior radiologist. Relevant clinical and laboratory data for these patients were extracted from the institutions’ medical records.

Results

Among 58 patients with GP, portal venous gas and bowel ischemia were present on CT scan in 52 (90%) and 17 patients (29%), respectively. The 30‐day mortality rate was 31%. Univariate analysis identified the following variables as predictive of mortality at the time of the diagnosis of GP: abdominal guarding, hemodynamic instability, arterial lactate level >2 mmol/l, and the absence of gastric dilatation. Multivariable analysis identified the following variables as independent predictors of mortality: arterial lactate level (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.07–1.79) and the absence of gastric dilatation (OR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01–0.79). None of the patients presenting with a baseline lactate rate<2 mmol/l died within 30 days following diagnosis, and no more than 17 patients out of 58 had bowel ischemia (29%).

Conclusions

GP could be managed non‐operatively, even in the presence of portal venous gas. However, patients with arterial lactate level>2 mmol/l, or the absence of gastric dilation should be surgically explored due to a non‐negligible risk of mortality.
Spatial–temporal modeling of root zone soil moisture dynamics in a vineyard using machine learning and remote sensing
Authors: Kisekka Isaya , Peddinti Srinivasa Rao , Kustas William P. , McElrone Andrew J. , Bambach-Ortiz Nicolas , McKee Lynn , Bastiaanssen Wim
Published: February 2022

High-resolution spatial–temporal root zone soil moisture (RZSM) information collected at different scales is useful for a variety of agricultural, hydrologic, and climate applications. RZSM can be estimated using remote sensing, empirical equations, or process-based simulation models. Machine learning (ML) approaches for evaluating RZSM across numerous spatial–temporal scales are less generalizable than process-based models. However, data-driven ML approaches offer a unique opportunity to develop complex models of soil moisture without making assumptions about the processes governing soil water dynamics in a given study region. In this study, comparisons were made between two models, pySEBAL and EFSOIL, which were based on evaporation fraction (EF) and soil properties, and a data-driven model based on the Random Forest (RF) ensemble algorithm. These approaches were evaluated to demonstrate their capabilities for RZSM estimation. The EF obtained from Landsat images was used after validation with eddy covariance measurements as the major input to all three models, along with other meteorological and soil physical properties. The RF model was trained using in situ soil moisture data from Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) sensors installed in a vineyard from 2018 to 2020. The predictor variables comprised of meteorological, soil properties, EF, and a vegetation index. The results reveal that there was a strong correlation between the in situ measured soil moisture and the RF predicted soil moisture at all sensor locations. Due to the complexity of the physical processes involved in soil water flow, the empirical models pySEBAL and EFSOIL were unable to reliably predict RZSM values at all monitored locations. The high RZSM predicted by pySEBAL demonstrated the presence of possible bias in the model’s algorithm used to estimate soil moisture. We also demonstrated that ML based on the RF algorithm may be used to predict spatially distributed RZSM when a few soil moisture ground measurements are combined with remote sensing to produce soil moisture maps.
Laparoscopic management of infantile hydrocele in pediatric age group
Authors: Elhaddad Ahmed , Awad Mohamed , Shehata Sherif M. , Shehata Mohamed A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To evaluate laparoscopic management of hydroceles in pediatrics, with evaluation of the internal inguinal ring (IIR) and the PPV (patent processus vaginalis) in different types of hydroceles, and the incidence of the contralateral PPV.

Methods

The IIR and the type of hydrocele on the same side of 93 patients with 106 infantile hydroceles were evaluated and managed, in addition to contralateral side.

Results

The IIR on same side was closed in 8.5% (Type I) and patent in 91.5% (Type II and III) with different shapes. Contralateral IIR was open in 88.7% of cases. The operative time was 30.99 ± 7.23 min, with no intra-operative complication. The vas deferens and testicular vessels were secured and there were no injuries or bleeding. The conversion rate was zero, and all procedures (Type II and II) were completed totally laparoscopic. No post-operative complications except a case of tense hydrocele developed scrotal edema that managed conservatively.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic hydrocelectomy is safe, applicable and feasible for management of different types of hydroceles in pediatrics. The IIR is patent in nearly all cases with/out communication to the hydrocele. The contralateral IIR can be managed in the same session. Laparoscopic hydrocelectomy with/out hydrocelectomy and IIR closure is essential in preventing recurrence.
A new protocol for investigating visual two-choice discrimination learning in lizards
Authors: Szabo Birgit , Whiting Martin J.
Published: February 2022

One of the most widely studied abilities in lizards is discrimination learning. The protocols used to test lizards are often novel or adapted from other taxa without proper validation. We need to ensure that tests of discrimination learning are appropriate and properly applied in lizards so that robust inferences can be made about cognitive ability. Here, we present a new protocol for testing lizard discrimination learning that incorporates a target training procedure, uses many daily trials for efficiency and reinforcement, and has a robust, validated, learning criterion. We trained lizards to touch a cue card using operant conditioning and tested lizards separately on a colour, and pattern discrimination test. Lizards successfully learnt to touch a cue card and to discriminate between light and dark blue but had issues discriminating the patterns. After modifying the test procedure, some lizards reached criterion, revealing possible issues with stimulus processing and interference of generalisation. Here, we describe a protocol for operant conditioning and two-choice discrimination learning in lizards with a robust learning criterion that can help researcher better design future studies on discrimination learning in lizards.
A boundary element approach for the evaluation of SSI effects in presence of pile foundations under steady-state conditions
Authors: Cairo Roberto
Published: February 2022

Simplified procedures, capable of predicting the main effects of soil-structure interaction (SSI), involving minimum computational effort are desired in engineering practice. Besides, user-friendly approaches can be incorporated into guidelines or practical recommended procedures. Nevertheless, approximate solutions need to be carefully validated through rigorous analytical or numerical methods, as well as by the comparison with experimental results or field measurements. In the case of piles, the flexibility of the soil-foundation system plays a fundamental role in structural design and the evaluation of the pile group effects still represents a crucial task in practical problem. In this paper, a Boundary Element approach based on the Stiffness Matrix Method (Kausel in Fundamental solutions in elastodynamics. A compendium, Cambridge University Press, England, 2006) is employed to investigate the key features of SSI, by comparison with the actual field data collected by Stewart et al. (Empirical evaluation of inertial soil-structure interaction effects. Rep. No. PEER-98/07, Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center, 1998) from instrumented sites and structures.
On subset-resilient hash function families
Authors: Yuan Quan , Tibouchi Mehdi , Abe Masayuki
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we analyze the security of subset-resilient hash function families, which is first proposed as a requirement of a hash-based signature scheme called HORS. Let $${\mathcal {H}}$$
H
be a family of functions mapping an element to a subset of size at most k. (r, k)-subset resilience guarantees that given a random function H from $${\mathcal {H}}$$
H
, it is hard to find an $$(r+1)$$

(
r
+
1
)

-tuple $$(x,x_1,\ldots ,x_r)$$

(
x
,

x
1

,
…
,

x
r

)

such that (1) H(x) is covered by the union of $$H(x_i)$$

H
(

x
i

)

and (2) x is not equal to any $$x_i$$

x
i

. Subset resilience and its variants are related to nearly all existing stateless hash-based signature schemes, but the power of this security notion is lacking in research. We present three results on subset resilience. First, we show a generic quantum attack against subset resilience, whose time complexity is smaller than simply implementing Grover’s search. Second, we show that subset-resilient hash function families imply the existence of distributional collision-resistant hash function families. Informally, distributional collision resistance is a relaxation of collision resistance, which guarantees that it is hard to find a uniform collision for a hash function. This result implies a comparison among the power of subset resilience, collision resistance, and distributional collision resistance. Third, we prove the fully black-box separation from one-way permutations.
The Contributing Role of Family, School, and Peer Supportive Relationships in Protecting the Mental Wellbeing of Children and Adolescents
Authors: Butler Nadia , Quigg Zara , Bates Rebecca , Jones Lisa , Ashworth Emma , Gowland Steve , Jones Margaret
Published: February 2022

Globally, mental disorders are the leading cause of disability in children and adolescents. Previous research has demonstrated that supportive relationships are a key protective factor against poor mental health in children, particularly amongst those who have experienced adversity. However, fewer studies have examined the relative impact of different types of supportive relationships. The current study examined the association between level of family adult support, school adult support, and school peer support and mental wellbeing in a sample of children (age 8–15 years, N = 2,074) from schools in the UK. All three sources of support were independently associated with mental wellbeing. Analyses demonstrated a graded relationship between the number of sources of support and the odds of low mental wellbeing (LMWB), reflecting a cumulative protective effect. While all three sources of support were best, it was not vital, and analyses demonstrated a protective effect of school sources of support on LMWB amongst children with low family support. Peer support was found to be particularly important, with prevalence of LMWB similar amongst children who had high peer support (but low family and school adult support), and those who had high family and school adult support, (but low peer support), indicating that high peer support has an equivalent impact of two other protective factors. Findings from the study highlight the crucial context schools provide in fostering positive peer relationships and supportive teacher–student relationships to promote mental health and resilience for all children, including both those with and without supportive home environments.
Ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 11 promotes autophagy by de-ubiquitinating and stabilizing Beclin-1
Authors: Li Zheng , Rao Shaohong , Song Chunwei , Zhu Min , Zhao Hongchang , Yuan Shuping , Peng Bin , Xu Xingzhi
Published: February 2022

Autophagy is a major degradation process that degrades and recycles cytoplasmic materials through lysosome for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Dysregulated autophagy is linked with numerous human diseases including cancer. Autophagy marker protein B-cell lymphoma-2 interacting protein 1 (Beclin-1) is essential for autophagosome initiation and maturation. Recently, Ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 11 (USP11) has been reported to promote or inhibit autophagy without identification of any direct target. Here through biochemical reaction in vitro, we demonstrate that USP11 directly interacts with Beclin-1. Both in vitro and in vivo de-ubiquitination assays revealed that USP11 de-ubiquitinates Beclin-1. USP11-mediated de-ubiquitination stabilized Beclin-1 and enhanced the formation of the autophagy-specific class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase complexes 1 and 2, thereby promoting autophagy. Together, our results demonstrated that USP11 promotes autophagy under unperturbed conditions by de-ubiquitinating and stabilizing Beclin-1 which may serve as a therapeutic target for autophagy-related diseases.
Evaluation of the function of a luciferase-like monooxygenase homologue in 4,4´-dithiodibutyric acid catabolism in Rhodococcus erythropolis MI2
Authors: Venkateswar Reddy M. , Steinbüchel Alexander
Published: February 2022

The bacterium Rhodococcus erythropolis MI2 uses 4,4´-dithiodibutyric acid (DTDB) as carbon source to synthesize polythioesters (PTE). The first step for the production of PTE using DTDB is catalyzed by an NADH:flavin oxidoreductase (nox) as it was previously shown in our laboratory, and the second step is catabolized by a putative luciferase-like monooxygenase (Llm). In the current study, experiments were carried out to identify the function of Llm. Hence, the llm gene, which encodes for the Llm protein, was amplified from the genomic DNA of MI2 using polymerase chain reaction and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 cells. Protein purification was done using His Spin Trap affinity columns. Enzyme assay was carried out using the purified protein and p-coumaric acid as substrate giving a specific activity of 1.6 U/mg protein for the purified Llm. The responsible gene (llm) was deleted in the genome of MI2, and a single deletion mutant was subsequently generated. Finally, growth of the wild-type strain (MI2) and the mutant strain (MI2Δllm) were compared using DTDB or succinate as carbon sources. Whereas the wild type was successfully grown with DTDB or succinate, the llm-negative mutant exhibited low grow with DTDB although it grows very well with succinate.
Late Triassic to Jurassic Magmatic and Tectonic Evolution of the Intermontane Terranes in Yukon, Northern Canadian Cordillera: Transition From Arc to Syn‐Collisional Magmatism and Post‐Collisional Lithospheric Delamination
Authors: Colpron Maurice , Sack Patrick J. , Crowley James L. , Beranek Luke P. , Allan Murray M.
Published: February 2022

End‐on arc collision and onset of the northern Cordilleran orogen is recorded in Late Triassic to Jurassic plutons in the Intermontane terranes of Yukon, and in development of the synorogenic Whitehorse trough (WT). A synthesis of the extensive data set for these plutons supports interpretation of the magmatic and tectonic evolution of the northern Intermontane terranes. Late Triassic juvenile plutons that locally intrude the Yukon‐Tanana terrane represent the northern extension of arc magmatism within Stikinia. Early Jurassic plutons that intrude Stikinia and Yukon‐Tanana terranes were emplaced during crustal thickening (200–195 Ma) and subsequent exhumation (190–178 Ma). The syn‐collisional magmatism migrated to the south and shows increasing crustal contributions with time. This style of magmatism in Yukon contrasts with coeval, juvenile arc magmatism in British Columbia (Hazelton Group), that records southward arc migration in the Early Jurassic. Exhumation and subsidence of the WT in the north were probably linked to the retreating Hazelton arc by a sinistral transform. East of WT, Early Jurassic plutons intruded into Yukon‐Tanana record continued arc magmatism in Quesnellia. Middle Jurassic plutons were intruded after final enclosure of the Cache Creek terrane and imbrication of the Intermontane terranes. The post‐collisional plutons have juvenile isotopic compositions that, together with stratigraphic evidence of surface uplift, are interpreted to record asthenospheric upwelling and lithospheric delamination. A revised tectonic model proposes that entrapment of the Cache Creek terrane was the result of Hazelton slab rollback and development of a sinistral transform fault system linked to the collision zone to the north.
Insight into the nature and the transformation of the hydroxyl species in the CeY zeolite
Authors: Hui Yu , Zheng Jian , Qin Yucai , Du Xiaohui , Zu Yun , Yang Jiabao , Sun Shuhong , Gao Xionghou , Sun Zhaolin , Song Lijuan
Published: February 2022

The nature and transformation of hydroxyl species in a CeY zeolite during the calcination process have been investigated via the information of the hydroxyl spectra of the samples monitored in real-time via in situ FTIR spectroscopy technology.
Discovery of late-time X-ray flare and anomalous emission line enhancement after the nuclear optical outburst in a narrow-line Seyfert 1 Galaxy
Authors: Zhang W. J. , Shu X. W. , Sheng Z. F. , Sun L. M. , Dou L. M. , Jiang N. , Wang J. G. , Hu X. Y. , Wang Y. B. , Wang T. G.
Published: February 2022

CSS J102913+404220 is an atypical narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy with an energetic optical outburst occurring co-spatially with its nucleus. We present a detailed analysis of multi-wavelength photometric and spectroscopic observations of this object covering a period of a decade since outburst. We detect mid-infrared (MIR) flares delayed by about two months relative to the optical outburst and with an extremely high peak luminosity of L4.6 μm > 1044 erg s−1. The MIR peak luminosity is at least an order of magnitude higher than any known supernovae explosions, suggesting the optical outburst might be due to a stellar tidal disruption event (TDE). We find late-time X-ray brightening by a factor of ≳30 with respect to what is observed about 100 days after the optical outburst peak, followed by a flux fading by a factor of ∼4 within two weeks, making it one of the active galactic nuclei (AGNs) with extreme variability. Despite the dramatic X-ray variability, there are no coincident strong flux variations in optical, UV, and MIR bands. This unusual variability behavior has been seen in other highly accreting AGNs and could be attributed to absorption variability. In this scenario, the decrease in the covering factor of the absorber with accretion rate could cause the X-ray brightening, possibly induced by the TDE. Most strikingly, while the UV/optical continuum remains almost unchanged with time, an evident enhancement in the flux of the Hα broad emission line is observed about a decade after the nuclear optical outburst, which is an anomalous behavior never seen in any other AGN. Such an Hα anomaly could be explained by the replenishment of gas clouds and excitation within the broad line region (BLR) that perhaps originates from its interaction with outflowing stellar debris. Our results highlight the importance of the late-time evolution of a TDE, which can affect the accreting properties of the AGN, as suggested by recent simulations.
Performance and viability of vertical BIPV in tropical zones: An experimental and simulation approach
Authors: Giraldo-Pérez Juan Pablo , Orrego-García Juan Sebastian , Ospina-Metaute Cristian C. , Velásquez-López Alejandro , Betancur Esteban
Published: February 2022

Solar energy is expected to be the fastest developing of the Renewable Energy Sources (RES) in the next years. With the introduction of Distributed Generation into space limited urban areas, the need to find new solutions that allow the installations of Photovoltaic (PV) systems in cities has become crucial for the constant and sustainable energetic development of the world. This study presents new experimental and simulation analyses of the implementation of vertical Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), one of the most accepted alternatives for the installation of PV technologies in urban areas. Emphasis is made on the viability of BIPV in selected tropical regions from an energy generation standpoint. The results suggest that the implementation of these technologies is viable for urban spaces in the studied regions, as it was found that east and west facing vertical modules require only twice the space of horizontal modules to equal their energy generation, and the vertical area available in buildings can be up to 20 times larger than the horizontal. Additionally, energy generation in this location was found to be relatively constant throughout the year for east and west facing vertical BIPV installations.
Using the combined flow control accessory to the aerodynamic performance enhancement of bio-inspired seagull airfoils
Authors: Wu Liming , Liu Xiaomin , Liu Yang , Xi Guang
Published: February 2022

An airfoil with good stability and a high lift-drag ratio can effectively improve the stability and aerodynamic performance of the wind turbine blade. Inspired by the excellent gliding performance of the seagull wings, the unique profile and structure of the seagull wings are first extracted to restructure the bionic airfoil. Then, the flow control accessory combined the bionic flap and Gurney flap is introduced to further improve the static and dynamic aerodynamic performance of bionic seagull airfoil. Under different Reynolds numbers, the effects of the combined flow control accessory on the bionic seagull airfoil are investigated using the numerical simulation method. Based on the analysis of flow fields, the flow control mechanism of the combined flow control accessory on the stall characteristics of bionic seagull airfoil is revealed. The results show that for the static stall characteristics, when the flow control accessory is applied to the bionic airfoil, the static lift coefficient of the airfoil is increased by 15% at Reynolds numbers of Re 2.0 × 105. For the dynamic stall characteristics, the lift coefficient of the airfoil is improved during the whole dynamic stall process, the maximum is increased by 13.12%, and the area of the dynamic hysteresis loop is reduced.
BABEL (Better tArgeting, Better outcomes for frail ELderly patients) advance care planning: a comprehensive approach to advance care planning in nursing homes: a cluster randomised trial
Authors: Garland Allan , Keller Heather , Quail Patrick , Boscart Veronique , Heyer Michelle , Ramsey Clare , Vucea Vanessa , Choi Nora , Bains Ikdip , King Seema , Oshchepkova Tatiana , Kalashnikova Tatiana , Kroetsch Brittany , Steer Jessica , Heckman George
Published: February 2022

Background

Nursing home (NH) residents should have the opportunity to consider, discuss and document their healthcare wishes. However, such advance care planning (ACP) is frequently suboptimal.

Objective

Assess a comprehensive, person-centred ACP approach.

Design

Unblinded, cluster randomised trial.

Setting

Fourteen control and 15 intervention NHs in three Canadian provinces, 2018–2020.

Subjects

713 residents (442 control, 271 intervention) aged ≥65 years, with elevated mortality risk.

Methods

The intervention was a structured, $\sim$60-min discussion between a resident, substitute decision-maker (SDM) and nursing home staff to: (i) confirm SDMs’ identities and role; (ii) prepare SDMs for medical emergencies; (iii) explain residents’ clinical condition and prognosis; (iv) ascertain residents’ preferred philosophy to guide decision-making and (v) identify residents’ preferred options for specific medical emergencies. Control NHs continued their usual ACP processes. Co-primary outcomes were: (a) comprehensiveness of advance care planning, assessed using the Audit of Advance Care Planning, and (b) Comfort Assessment in Dying. Ten secondary outcomes were assessed. P-values were adjusted for all 12 outcomes using the false discovery rate method.

Results

The intervention resulted in 5.21-fold higher odds of respondents rating ACP comprehensiveness as being better (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.53, 7.61). Comfort in dying did not differ (difference = −0.61; 95% CI −2.2, 1.0). Among the secondary outcomes, antimicrobial use was significantly lower in intervention homes (rate ratio = 0.79, 95% CI 0.66, 0.94).

Conclusions

Superior comprehensiveness of the BABEL approach to ACP underscores the importance of allowing adequate time to address all important aspects of ACP and may reduce unwanted interventions towards the end of life.
A mechanistic model for nitrogen-limited plant growth
Authors: Chen Yongfa , Chu Chengjin , He Fangliang , Fang Suqin
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims

Nitrogen is often regarded as a limiting factor to plant growth in various ecosystems. Understanding how nitrogen drives plant growth has numerous theoretical and practical applications in agriculture and ecology. In 2004, Göran I. Ågren proposed a mechanistic model of plant growth from a biochemical perspective. However, neglecting respiration and assuming stable and balanced growth made the model unrealistic for plants growing in natural conditions. The aim of the present paper is to extend Ågren’s model to overcome these limitations.

Methods

We improved Ågren’s model by incorporating the respiratory process and replacing the stable and balanced growth assumption with a three-parameter power function to describe the relationship between nitrogen concentration (Nc) and biomass. The new model was evaluated based on published data from three studies on corn (Zea mays) growth.

Key Results

Remarkably, the mechanistic growth model derived in this study is mathematically equivalent to the classical Richards model, which is the most widely used empirical growth model. The model agrees well with empirical plant growth data.

Conclusions

Our model provides a mechanistic interpretation of how nitrogen drives plant growth. It is very robust in predicting growth curves and the relationship between Nc and relative growth rate.
Re-evaluating model assumptions suggests that Australian birds are more tolerant of heat and aridity than predicted: a response to
Conradie et al. (2020)
Authors: Pacheco-Fuentes Hector , Cooper Christine E , Withers Philip C , Griffith Simon C
Published: February 2022

Conradie et al. (2020) recently modelled the vulnerability of Australian arid birds to a changing climate. While the approach used by Conradie et al. (2020) is valuable, we argue that key assumptions in their study are poorly supported and the risks of a changing climate to arid zone avifauna are consequently overstated.
Can preoperative features predict residual false lumen remodelling after tear-oriented limited resection for acute type I dissection?
Authors: Kim Sang Yoon , Chang Hyung Woo , Lee Jae Hang , Kim Jun Sung , Lim Cheong , Park Kay-Hyun
Published: February 2022

Central image Preoperative favourable computed tomography features and incidence of late positive remodelling of proximal descending thoracic aorta.

OBJECTIVES

Our goal was to identify the preoperative findings in computed tomography correlated with the postoperative changes of the false lumen (FL) remaining in the descending thoracic aorta following tear-oriented surgery for acute type I dissection.

METHODS

Patients who underwent ascending +/- partial arch replacement, with available preoperative and postoperative late (>1 year) CT scans, were included. Preoperative cross-sectional parameters were measured by the semi-automated centreline method at the level of the anastomosis. The parameters of the patients who presented positive remodelling of the proximal descending thoracic aorta were compared with those of the patients who did not in the late images.

RESULTS

Among the included 101 patients, positive remodelling of the proximal descending thoracic aorta was observed in 46.5%, of which 76.6% extended downwards to the middle descending thoracic aorta. In the univariable analysis, an FL area ratio <50% (P < 0.001), a circumferential ratio of dissection <50% (P = 0.028), an FL width <20 mm (P = 0.008) at the distal anastomotic zone and not leaving residual arch branches having patent false lumens (P = 0.005) correlated with positive remodelling. The number of fulfilled above-mentioned features revealed a better correlation, which was stronger in patients without Marfan syndrome and in those older than 50 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The cross-sectional extent of dissection at the presumed distal anastomotic zone is associated with descending thoracic aorta positive remodelling following tear-oriented replacement for acute type I aortic dissection. Considering the anatomical features in determining the extent of aortic replacement, some of the non-Marfan elderly patients can be spared from aggressive total arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique.
Nurse-led sedation for transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation seems safe for a selected patient population
Authors: Kočka Viktor , Nováčková Markéta , Kratochvílová Lenka , Širáková Andrea , Sulženko Jakub , Buděšínský Tomáš , Bystroń Marian , Neuberg Marek , Mašek Petr , Bednář František , Stern Michael , Toušek and Petr
Published: February 2022

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become a high-volume procedure with increasing demands on hospital resources. Local anaesthesia with sedation supervised by an anaesthesiology team is the current standard of care. We aimed to describe our experience with a simplified, nurse-led sedation (NLS) protocol. This study enrolled 128 consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI with self-expandable Evolut R prosthesis between November 2019 and April 2021. Operators selected 50% of patients for NLS based on the clinical expectation of lower risk of procedural difficulties. Nurse-led sedation protocol demanded only mild to moderate levels of sedation. The clinical outcomes were determined from the local TAVI registry and the national mortality database. Baseline patient characteristics were similar in the NLS (n = 64) and anaesthesiologist-led sedation (ALS) (n = 64) groups except higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus (48.4% vs. 31.3%, P = 0.035) and peripheral vascular disease (20.3% vs. 7.8%, P = 0.036) in the ALS group. There was a trend for the larger prostheses used in the ALS group (P = 0.058). The procedural results did not differ, and coronary care team backup was rarely needed in the NLS group (6% of patients). The in-hospital outcomes were identical from both clinical and echocardiography perspectives, and 30-day mortality was low in both groups (1.5%). For the NLS group, preparation in the catheterization laboratory was quicker by 6.4 min (P = 0.01), and intensive care unit stay was shorter (2.03 vs. 3.48 days, P = 0.001). In conclusion, the NLS for the selected transfemoral TAVI population seems safe.
Fully automated measurement of aortic root anatomy using Philips HeartNavigator computed tomography software: fast, accurate, or both?
Authors: Kočka Viktor , Bártová Lucie , Valošková Naďa , Laboš Marek , Weichet Jiří , Neuberg Marek , Toušek and Petr
Published: February 2022

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) is vital for safety and efficacy of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). We aimed to determine the accuracy of fully automated CT analysis of aortic root anatomy before TAVI by Philips HeartNavigator software. This prospective, academic, single-centre study enrolled 128 consecutive patients with native aortic valve stenosis considered for TAVI. Automated HeartNavigator software was compared to the standard manual CT analysis by experienced operators using FluoroCT software. The sizing of the aortic annulus by perimeter and area significantly differed between both methods: mean perimeter was 76.43 mm vs. 77.52 mm (P < 0.0001) using manual FluoroCT vs. automated HeartNavigator software; mean area was 465 mm2 vs. 476 mm2 (P < 0.0001). Interindividual variability testing revealed mean differences between the two operators were 1.21 mm for the aortic annulus perimeter and 9 mm2 for the aortic annulus area. The hypothetical self-expandable transcatheter prosthesis sizing resulted in 80% agreement in 80% of cases. The time required to perform the automated CT analysis was significantly shorter than the time required for manual analysis (mean 17.8 min vs. 2.1 min, P < 0.0001). Philips HeartNavigator fully automated software for pre-TAVI CT analysis is a promising technology. Differences detected in aortic annulus dimensions are small and similar to the variability of manual CT analysis. Automated prediction of optimal fluoroscopic viewing angles is accurate. Correct transcatheter prosthesis sizing requires clinical oversight.
Might simplification of transcatheter aortic valve implantation reduce the burden on hospital resources?
Authors: Kratochvílová Lenka , Mašek Petr , Neuberg Marek , Nováčková Markéta , Toušek Petr , Sulženko Jakub , Buděšínský Tomáš , Kočka , and Viktor
Published: February 2022

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) varies considerably in terms of the procedural approach taken and the hospital length of stay (LoS); both directly affect the cost of care. Our coronary and standard cardiology unit aimed to simplify TAVI (and thus shorten the LoS) while maintaining safety. A shorter LoS would also reduce the burden on hospital resources and free up beds for other patients. Data on 214 consecutive patients undergoing TAVI at a single centre between April 2018 and March 2021 were retrospectively collected. A simplified protocol was implemented in January 2020; patients were stratified by whether they underwent TAVI before or after simplification. All procedural phases were simplified. For cost comparison purposes, the LoS was defined as the number of hospitalization days from admission to discharge. The total hospitalization cost was the sum of the direct and indirect (including reallocated overhead) costs. The LoS fell significantly (by 36%) after TAVI simplification. The times in the coronary care unit (CCU) and standard cardiac unit (SCU) also fell significantly (by 33% and 37% respectively). Patients in the simplified TAVI group were discharged, on average, 6 days after admission. The CCU costs decreased by 31% and the SCU costs by 39%. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation simplification did not compromise safety. Indeed, patients who underwent the simplified procedure seemed to develop fewer complications, especially bleeding. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation simplification significantly reduced the LoS and other costs without compromising patient safety.
Intercolony Comparisons of Gut Microbiome Composition From Lab Reared Eastern Subterranean Termites (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae)
Authors: Sapkota R , Scharf M E
Published: February 2022

Termites are social insects living in colonies composed of worker, soldier, and reproductive castes. Termite hindguts are inhabited by all three domains of life- Eukarya (protists), Bacteria, and Archaea. These gut microorganisms are horizontally and vertically transferred by nestmates and reproductives, respectively. Prior evidence suggests that every colony potentially has a different gut microbiome that was transferred vertically and horizontally over time. However, we do not know if different colonies reared in the laboratory on the same diet will ultimately demonstrate similar microbial composition and structure. Therefore, we looked at gut bacteria in Eastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes flavipes) colonies that were reared in the laboratory with identical diets and rearing conditions. Based on16S rRNA gene sequencing, the observed features, and Shannon’s diversity were significantly different between the colonies while differences in Pielou evenness and Faith phylogenetic diversity were not statistically significant. In addition, the microbial community structures were significantly different between colonies. Based on ANCOM (Analysis of Composition of Microbiomes), the taxa Elizabethkingia (Bacteroidetes: Flavobacteriales) and Chryseobacterium (Bacteroidetes: Flavobacteriales) were differentially abundant between the colonies. These results suggest that providing the exact same diet and rearing environment for >2 yr cannot result in identical gut microbiomes between termite colonies.
Variable social organization among tuco-tucos (genusCtenomys) in theopimusclade
Authors: Lacey Eileen A , Amaya Juan P , Irian Christian G , Carrizo Pablo G , O’Brien Shannon L , Ojeda Agustina A
Published: February 2022

Comparative studies of closely related species provide a powerful means of identifying the ecological and demographic factors associated with variation in mammalian social systems. Although most members of the subterranean rodent genus Ctenomys are thought to be solitary, the highland tuco-tuco (C. opimus) is group living, meaning that multiple adults share a burrow system and underground nest site. These animals are part of the opimus clade, a monophyletic collection of four named species that occur in northwestern Argentina and adjacent portions of Chile and Bolivia. As a first step toward generating a comparative assessment of social organization within this clade, we characterized spatial relationships among members of a population of Ctenomys at Antofagasta de la Sierra, Catamarca Province, Argentina. Based on geographic location and natural history, these animals were expected to be part of the opimus clade; analyses of mitochondrial cytochrome-b sequences from our study population confirmed this general phylogenetic placement. Radiotelemetry data indicated that the animals at Antofagasta were group living, with up to three adult females and one adult male sharing a burrow system. In contrast to other group-living ctenomyids, however, individuals did not consistently share nest sites. Comparisons of these data with re-analyses of spatial relationships among members of the population of C. opimus studied by O’Brien et al. (2020) revealed several intriguing differences in social organization, potential explanations for which include short-term responses to variable demographic and ecological conditions as well as more enduring responses to differences in local selective pressures. Further comparative analyses of these populations and, more generally, members of this subclade of Ctenomys will help to elucidate the factors contributing to variation in social behavior within this speciose and geographically widespread genus.
DEVELOPMENT OF A ROBOT FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF RADIOACTIVE CONTAMINATION AND FERTILITY OF THE SOIL IN FARMLAND
Authors: Tanigaki Minoru , Inoue Yoshio , Momota Sadao , Saito Takashi , Nemoto Tomoaki , Ono Tsukasa , Wada Akira , Ohashi Masaharu , Tsuno Koichi , Kano Masahiro , Matsuura Takahiro , Yasuoka Tadaaki , Hanai Hiroyuki , Arakawa Koichi
Published: February 2022

A tractor-based robot with the capability of real-time assessing and visualizing the radioactive material density and fertility distribution of farmlands has been developed to accelerate the recovery process of the farmlands suffered by the accident of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP). In a field test at a decontaminated farmland near FDNPP, within-field heterogeneities of soil contamination and fertility are clarified almost in real-time. Results obtained by this robot are consistent with the map by the conventional soil sampling or the history of decontamination activities.
Mu rhythm suppression over sensorimotor regions is associated with greater empathic accuracy
Authors: Genzer Shir , Ong Desmond C , Zaki Jamil , Perry Anat
Published: February 2022

When people encounter others’ emotions, they engage multiple brain systems, including parts of the sensorimotor cortex associated with motor simulation. Simulation-related brain activity is commonly described as a ‘low-level’ component of empathy and social cognition. It remains unclear whether and how sensorimotor simulation contributes to complex empathic judgments. Here, we combine a naturalistic social paradigm with a reliable index of sensorimotor cortex-based simulation: electroencephalography suppression of oscillatory activity in the mu frequency band. We recruited participants to watch naturalistic video clips of people (‘targets’) describing emotional life events. In two experiments, participants viewed these clips (i) with video and sound, (ii) with only video or (iii) with only sound and provided continuous ratings of how they believed the target felt. We operationalized ‘empathic accuracy’ as the correlation between participants’ inferences and targets’ self-report. In Experiment 1 (US sample), across all conditions, right-lateralized mu suppression tracked empathic accuracy. In Experiment 2 (Israeli sample), this replicated only when using individualized frequency-bands and only for the visual stimuli. Our results provide novel evidence that sensorimotor representations—as measured through mu suppression—play a role not only in low-level motor simulation, but also in higher-level inferences about others’ emotions, especially when visual cues are crucial for accuracy.
Blessing applications: how does the court balance proper scrutiny with the principle of non-intervention?
Authors: Alexander Stephen , Hooper Katie
Published: February 2022

The supervisory court on a blessing application generally acts without cross-examination and full disclosure and, yet, must be satisfied as to the propriety of the trustee's decision before it bestows upon a trustee the armour of a blessing. How then is this to be achieved without that stringent testing of the trustee's evidence? Recent decisions of the Royal Court of Jersey indicate that the Court does not shy away from adopting an inquisitorial role itself, by interrogating the evidence and identifying any flaws in the trustee's decision. But is such an approach consistent with the principle of non-intervention on the part of the supervisory court? This article considers these thorny issues.
Identities of women who have an autoimmune rheumatic disease (ARD) during pregnancy planning, pregnancy and early parenting: A qualitative study
Authors: Williams Denitza , Pell Bethan , Grant Aimee , Sanders Julia , Taylor Ann , Edwards Adrian , Choy Ernest , Phillips Rhiannon
Published: February 2022

Objective

Women of reproductive age who have autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) have expressed a need to be better supported with making decisions about pregnancy. Women with ARDs want their motherhood identities and associated preferences to be taken into account in decisions about their healthcare. The aim of this study was to explore the interplay between illness and motherhood identities of women with ARDs during preconception decision making.

Methods

Timeline-facilitated qualitative interviews with women diagnosed with an ARD (18-49 years old). Participants were purposively sampled based on the following three criteria: thinking about getting pregnant, currently pregnant, or had young children. Interviews were thematically analysed.

Results

Twenty-two women were interviewed face-to-face (N=6) or over the telephone (N=16). Interview length ranged from 20 minutes to 70 minutes, with a mean length of 48 minutes. Three main themes were identified: prioritisation, discrepancy, and trade-off. Difficulties in balancing multiple identities in healthcare encounters were reported. Women used ‘self-guides’ as a reference for priority setting in a dynamic process that shifted as their level of disease activity altered and as their motherhood identity became more or less of a focus at a given point in time. Women’s illness and motherhood identities did not present in isolation but were intertwined.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the need for holistic person-centred care that supports women with the complex and emotive decisions relating to preconception decision-making. In practice, health professionals need to consider women’s multiple and sometimes conflicting identities, and include both their condition and family associated goals and values within healthcare communication.
Correlates of functional physical capacity in physically active older adults: a conceptual-framework-based cross-sectional analysis of social determinants of health and clinical parameters
Authors: Pfeifer Lucinéia Orsolin , Helal Lucas , Oliveira Nórton Luís , Umpierre Daniel
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to explore social determinants of health and health/clinical determinants on two outcomes of functional physical capacity. Therefore, a population-based sample of 327 older adults (69±7 years; 83.5% women) underwent demographical and clinical questionnaires, risk factors assessments, six-minute walk testing (walking capacity), and handgrip strength testing. Based on multivariable linear regression models, age (−4.05m; - 5.3 to −2.8), being men (71.40m; 50.5 to 92.3), body mass index (−3.88m; −5.6 to −2.1), and quality of life (18.48m; 6.3 to 30.6) remained as predictive variables for walking capacity (R2=30.8%). In the final model for handgrip strength, age (−0.6% kgf; 0.89 to 0.2) and male sex (65.2% kgf; 55.3 to 75.8) remained as predictive variables. Despite exploratory analyses including contextual factors as potential predictors of walking capacity and handgrip strength, only outcomes at the individual levels were associated, either positively or negatively, with the variations presented by this studied sample of older adults.
Enhanced excitability of the hippocampal CA2 region and its contribution to seizure generation in a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Whitebirch Alexander C. , LaFrancois John J. , Jain Swati , Leary Paige , Santoro Bina , Siegelbaum Steven A. , Scharfman Helen E.
Published: February 2022

The hippocampal CA2 region, an area important for social memory, has been suspected to play a role in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) because of its resistance to the degeneration observed in neighboring CA1 and CA3 regions in both human and rodent models of TLE. However, little is known about whether alterations in CA2 properties serve to promote seizure generation or propagation. Here we have used the pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (PILO-SE) model of TLE to explore the role of CA2. Ex vivo electrophysiological recordings from acute hippocampal slices revealed a set of coordinated changes that enhance CA2 intrinsic excitability, reduce CA2 local inhibitory input, and increase CA2 excitatory output to its major CA1 synaptic target. Moreover, selective silencing of CA2 pyramidal cells using a chemogenetic approach caused a significant decrease in the frequency of spontaneous seizures. These findings provide the first evidence that CA2 actively contributes to TLE seizure activity and may thus be a promising therapeutic target.