bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of cognitive reserve and psychological resilience with cognitive functioning in subjects with cerebral white matter hyperintensities
Authors: Arola Anne , Laakso Hanna M. , Pitkänen Johanna , Koikkalainen Juha , Lötjönen Jyrki , Korvenoja Antti , Erkinjuntti Timo , Melkas Susanna , Jokinen Hanna
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose

Cerebral small vessel disease is characterized by progressive white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and cognitive decline. However, variability exists in how individuals maintain cognitive capabilities despite significant neuropathology. The relationships between individual cognitive reserve, psychological resilience and cognitive functioning were examined in subjects with varying degrees of WMH.

Methods

In the Helsinki Small Vessel Disease Study, 152 subjects (aged 65–75 years) underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, evaluation of subjective cognitive complaints and brain magnetic resonance imaging with volumetric WMH evaluation. Cognitive reserve was determined by education (years) and the modified Cognitive Reserve Scale (mCRS). Psychological resilience was evaluated with the Resilience Scale 14.

Results

The mCRS total score correlated significantly with years of education (r = 0.23, p < 0.01), but it was not related to age, sex or WMH volume. Together, mCRS score and education were associated with performance in a wide range of cognitive domains including processing speed, executive functions, working memory, verbal memory, visuospatial perception and verbal reasoning. Independently of education, the mCRS score had incremental predictive value on delayed verbal recall and subjective cognitive complaints. Psychological resilience was not significantly related to age, education, sex, WMH severity or cognitive test scores, but it was associated with subjective cognitive complaints.

Conclusions

Cognitive reserve has strong and consistent associations with cognitive functioning in subjects with WMH. Education is widely associated with objective cognitive functioning, whereas lifetime engagement in cognitively stimulating leisure activities (mCRS) has independent predictive value on memory performance and subjective cognitive complaints. Psychological resilience is strongly associated with subjective, but not objective, cognitive functioning.
Interpreting the role of the striatum during multiple phases of motor learning
Authors: Cataldi Stefano , Stanley Adrien T. , Miniaci Maria Concetta , Sulzer David
Published: May 2021

The synaptic pathways in the striatum are central to basal ganglia functions including motor control, learning and organization, action selection, acquisition of motor skills, cognitive function, and emotion. Here, we review the role of the striatum and its connections in motor learning and performance. The development of new techniques to record neuronal activity and animal models of motor disorders using neurotoxin, pharmacological, and genetic manipulations are revealing pathways that underlie motor performance and motor learning, as well as how they are altered by pathophysiological mechanisms. We discuss approaches that can be used to analyze complex motor skills, particularly in rodents, and identify specific questions central to understanding how striatal circuits mediate motor learning.
Effect of peri‐implant disease on oral health–related quality of life in geriatric patients
Authors: Gündoğar Hasan , Uzunkaya Meral , Öğüt Sevgi , Sarı Fatih
Published: May 2021

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of peri‐implant disease on the quality of life in geriatric patients using implant‐supported overdentures.

Background

Peri‐implant disease and bone loss are two main complications of dental implant treatment that can impact the quality of life in the geriatric population.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 109 geriatric individuals treated in the prosthodontics and periodontology departments. On clinical examination, periodontal pocket depth, gingival index (GI) and plaque index (PIn) were measured to determine peri‐implant status. Marginal bone loss was measured by radiological examination, using ImageJ software. Moreover, the Oral Healthy Impact Profile‐14 (OHIP‐14) questionnaire was used to evaluate participants’ perceived oral health–related quality of life.

Results

Peri‐implantitis (PI) and peri‐implant mucositis (PM) prevalence were 30% and 24%, respectively. Only 44% of patients had healthy implants. Although total OHIP‐14 scores were higher in the PI group than in the healthy and PM groups, this difference was not statistically significant (P = .148). Total OHIP‐14 score was significantly correlated with PIn and GI.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, it can be said that on quality of life in patients using implant‐supported overdenture related to clinical parameters such as PIn and GI. Results also indicated that geriatric patients should take action to improve their oral health. Further longitudinal studies are needed to support our results and should include control groups that use conventional removable dentures.
Report on users, and user experience with discreet catheters in The Netherlands
Authors: Markiewicz Anna , van Hees Ruud , van der Veeken Claudi , Mackaay Paul , Goldstine Jimena V. , Nichols Thom
Published: May 2021

Those using intermittent catheterization (IC) have many catheter types and styles to select from; including what manufacturers refer to as discreet catheters. Discreet catheters are often manufactured to be smaller in length, coiled in design, or foldable, thus allowing for easier concealment or discretion when carried in public and offering a degree of personal privacy. This study explores discreet catheter use and its alignment with the lifestyle experience of those who use such catheters. This study assesses the user and user experience with discreet catheters. User experience is defined as catheter choice, associated activities, and urinary tract health. A cross‐sectional survey investigated life and health status of individuals in the Netherlands requiring IC. The study enrolled 1892 individuals of which 784 use a discreet catheter as their primary catheter. Catheter choice: 82% of study respondents state they have the ability to choose the type of catheter they use. Of those indicating not having the ability to choose their catheter, they state their health care professional did not inform them of different catheters, brands, or options. Catheter associated activities: Those employed full or part time are satisfied with their discreet catheter (95.1%) claiming it is discreet, and gives them confidence to live their life the way they choose; that the catheter did not interference with social activities (72.6%), and had little to no interference with work outside of the home (76.1%). Urinary tract infections (UTI): 39.4% report a clinician diagnosed UTI within 6 months prior to the survey. The data indicates that 18.3% of the sample are deficient in UTI knowledge stating they do not know what a UTI is, or what associated symptoms are; 41% followed a clinician suggested regimen for catheterizing; 25.5% altered catheterization schedules to fit daily activities; 33.3% stated they did not follow a regimen, but catheterized when convenient The data supports positive experiences for individuals who use discreet catheters as their primary method of bladder voiding, particularly socially active individuals requiring an element of personal privacy in their life. However, UTI's are a matter of concern due to a reported deficit in knowledgeable about UTI's and symptomology.
Measuring quality of hepatitis B care in a remote Australian Aboriginal community: opportunities for improvement
Authors: Narayana Sumudu , Nugent Michael , Woodman Richard , Larkin Michael , Ramachandran Jeyamani , Muller Kate , Wigg Alan
Published: May 2021

Background

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection remains a significant public health issue for Indigenous Australians, in particular for remote communities.

Aim

To evaluate the spectrum of hepatitis B virus (HBV) care provided to a remote Aboriginal community. Measures studied included screening, seroprevalence, vaccination rates and efficacy, and HCC risk and surveillance adherence.

Methods

A retrospective audit of HBV care received by all permanent residents currently attending a remote Aboriginal Health service. This study was endorsed by both the local Aboriginal Health service and the Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia.

Results

A total of 208 patients attended the clinic, of whom 52% (109) were screened for HBV. Of these, 12% (13) had CHB and 20% (22) had evidence of past infection. Similarly, of the 208 attending patients, complete vaccination was documented in 48% (99). Of the 33 patients with post‐vaccination serology, 24% (8) had subtherapeutic (<10 IU/mL) levels of HBsAb. Subtherapeutic HBsAb was independently associated with higher Charlson Comorbidity scores (odds ratio = 17.1; 95% confidence interval 1.2–243.3; P = 0.036). Definitive breakthrough infection was identified in 6% (2) patients. One HBsAg positive patient was identified as needing HCC surveillance, but had not undertaken HCC surveillance.

Conclusion

Opportunities to improve the quality of CHB care through increased HBV vaccination, screening and adherence to HCC surveillance were identified. High rates of subtherapeutic vaccine responses and documented breakthrough infection raises concerns about the effectiveness of current CHB vaccines in this population.
Generalized autoregressive moving average models with GARCH errors
Authors: Zheng Tingguo , Xiao Han , Chen Rong
Published: May 2021

One of the important and widely used classes of models for non‐Gaussian time series is the generalized autoregressive model average models (GARMA), which specifies an ARMA structure for the conditional mean process of the underlying time series. However, in many applications one often encounters conditional heteroskedasticity. In this article, we propose a new class of models, referred to as GARMA‐GARCH models, that jointly specify both the conditional mean and conditional variance processes of a general non‐Gaussian time series. Under the general modeling framework, we propose three specific models, as examples, for proportional time series, non‐negative time series, and skewed and heavy‐tailed financial time series. Maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) and quasi Gaussian MLE are used to estimate the parameters. Simulation studies and three applications are used to demonstrate the properties of the models and the estimation procedures.
Environmental risk factors are associated with autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Lammert Craig , Chalasani Sai N. , Atkinson Elizabeth J. , McCauley Bryan M. , Lazaridis Konstantinos N.
Published: May 2021

Background

Failure of immunologic homeostasis and resultant hepatocyte destruction in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is likely the result of environmental triggers within a permissive genetic architecture.

Aims

We aimed to identify risk factors associated with AIH in a well‐phenotyped AIH cohort.

Methods

We prospectively collected environmental questionnaires from 358 AIH cases and 563 healthy controls. Response frequencies were compared using logistic regression, adjusting for age at recruitment, sex and education.

Results

AIH cases were more likely to ever have a urinary tract infection (UTI) (53.6% vs 33.9%, P < .001) and recurrent UTI (more than 1 per year) (23.5% vs 15.9%, P = .002) compared to controls. Female cases more frequently had ever used oral contraceptives (83.0% vs 73.7%, P = .006), fewer pregnancies (median = 1 vs 3, P < .001) and less often used hormone replacement therapy compared to controls (28.5% vs 60.1%, P < .001). Current smoking was more prevalent in cases (18.9% vs 7.4%, P = .022), yet no difference according to historical smoking behaviours was observed. Finally, cases were less likely to have history of mumps (32.4% vs 53.1%, P = .011) and rheumatic fever (1.1% vs 4.4%, P = .028), but reported higher vaccination frequency to chicken pox (38% vs 28.1%), measles (66.5% vs 39.3%), mumps (58.7% vs 34.6%), rubella (55.3% vs 32.7%), pertussis (59.8% vs 40.1%) and pneumococcus (47.2% VS 39.4%) (P < .002).

Conclusions

Environmental factors are important in AIH pathogenesis. Replication of these findings and prospective examination may provide new insight into AIH onset and outcomes.
Unveiling metabolic changes in marsupialized odontogenic keratocyst: A pilot study
Authors: Leite‐Lima Flávia , Bastos Victor Coutinho , Vitório Jéssica Gardone , Duarte‐Andrade Filipe Fideles , Pereira Thaís dos Santos Fontes , Martins‐Chaves Roberta Rayra , Cruz Aline Fernanda , de Lacerda Júlio César Tanos , Lebron Yuri Abner Rocha , Moreira Victor Rezende , Santos Lucilaine Valéria de Souza , Lange Liséte Celina , de Macedo Adriana Nori , Diniz Marina Gonçalves , Gomes Carolina Cavaliéri , de Castro Wagner Henriques , Canuto Gisele André Baptista , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: May 2021

Objective

We aimed to assess which metabolic pathways would be implicated in the phenotypic changes of the epithelial lining of odontogenic keratocyst after marsupialization, comparing pre‐ and post‐marsupialized lesions with adjacent oral mucosa.

Materials and Methods

Eighteen formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded tissues from six subjects were divided into three paired groups: odontogenic keratocyst pre‐ (n = 6) and post‐marsupialization (n = 6), and adjacent oral mucosa (n = 6). The metabolic pathways found in these groups were obtained by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry‐based untargeted metabolomics performed.

Results

Through putative metabolite annotation followed by pathway enrichment and predictive analysis with automated algorithms (Mummichog and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis), we found differences in many cellular processes that may be involved in inflammation, oxidative stress response, keratinocyte‐basal membrane attachment, differentiation, and proliferation functions, all relevant to odontogenic keratocyst pathobiology and the phenotype acquired after marsupialization.

Conclusion

Our study was able to identify several metabolic pathways potentially involved in the metaplastic changes induced by marsupialization of odontogenic keratocysts. An improved comprehension of this process could pave the way for the development of targeted therapies.
Role of D‐alanylation of Streptococcus mutans lipoteichoic acid in interspecies competitiveness
Authors: Wu Minjing , Huang Shan , Du Jingyun , Jiang Shan , Cai Zhiyu , Zhan Ling , Huang Xiaojing
Published: May 2021

Background

The D‐alanylation of lipoteichoic acid (LTA) is essential for the physiological metabolism of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). This study was designed to investigate the influence of D‐alanylation of LTA on interspecies competitiveness of S. mutans.

Methods

The process of D‐alanylation was blocked by the inactivation of dltC. Agar competition assays, conditioned medium assays, and qRT‐PCR were used to evaluate the production of antimicrobial compounds in S. mutans mutant. Dual‐species biofilm was formed to investigate the competitiveness of S. mutans mutant cocultured with S. sanguinis or S. gordonii.

Results

S. mutans mutant could not produce antimicrobial compounds efficiently when cocultured with commensal bacteria (*p < 0.05). The mutant showed compromised competitiveness in dual‐species biofilms. The ratio of the mutant in dual‐species biofilms decreased, and the terminal pH of the culture medium in mutant groups (mutant+S. sanguinis/S. gordonii) was higher than that in wild‐type groups (*p < 0.05). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed weaker demineralization of enamel treated with dual‐species biofilms consisting of mutant and commensal bacteria.

Conclusion

D‐Alanylation is involved in interspecies competitiveness of S. mutans within oral biofilm by regulating mutacins and lactic acid production, which may modulate the profiles of dental biofilms. Results provide new insights into dental caries prevention and treatment.
Establishment of predicting equation for individual sufentanil dosage postoperatively based on gene polymorphisms
Authors: Cheng Huawei , Zeng Rong , Kong Lingsuo , Ding Conglan , He Yifu , Zhuang Wei , Sun Yancai
Published: May 2021

Background

Postoperative analgesia is widely used for patients undergoing major surgeries. Individual differences in genetic polymorphisms may be obstructive factors for accurately anesthetics using. However, the equation for predicting sufentanil dosage postoperatively based on genetic design has been established yet. Our aim was to establish sufentanil dosage postoperatively prediction equation based on patients’ genetic polymorphisms.

Methods

One hundred forty patients with total gastrectomy and radical resection of pulmonary carcinoma were included. To establish sufentanil dosage postoperatively for patients with gastric cancer, we collected patients’ basic information and CYP3A4*1G, COMTVal158Met, OPRM1A118G, and ABCB1C3435T gene sequencing results. To verify this equation, we put patients’ with lung cancer surgeries information into it.

Results

The sufentanil dosage prediction equation postoperatively was y = 4.104 − 0.222 × (gender) + 0.021 × (OPRM1A118G) + 0.249 × (ABCB1C3435T). Patients’ with lung cancer surgeries information were substituted into it. The results showed no significant differences between predicted and actual sufentanil dosage (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

We established the prediction equation for individual sufentanil dosage postoperatively based on gene polymorphisms. The results showed this prediction equation was valid, which might be used for different types of surgeries. We established an equation for individual dosage of sufentanil for postoperative analgesia based on gene polymorphisms. The results show that the prediction equation is valid, the information might be used for different types of postoperative analgesia, and the painful patients will have great potential safe and personalized pain control after analgesic therapy. It might also have potential as a clinical tool.
Body in the face of uncertainty: The role of autonomic arousal and interoception in decision‐making under risk and ambiguity
Authors: Herman Aleksandra M. , Esposito Giulia , Tsakiris Manos
Published: May 2021

Influential theories posit that bodily responses are important for decision‐making under uncertainty. However, the evidence of the role of our ability to perceive subtle bodily changes (interoception) in decision‐making under uncertainty is mixed. These differences may arise from the fact that uncertainty, a part of daily decision‐making, can be fractionated into risk (known probabilities) and ambiguity (unknown probabilities). Here we examine the role of arousal and interoception in shaping risky and ambiguous decisions. We measured skin conductance responses and heart rate changes while participants (N = 40) made gambling decisions in the context of risky and ambiguous lotteries. Results reveal that the anticipation phase produced the largest arousal responses, suggesting that the anticipation is a major contributor to arousal during gambling behavior, regardless of the uncertainty type. Moreover, physiological responses were higher following positive outcomes than negative outcomes. We did not find any direct relation between interoceptive dimensions and the attitudes toward risk and ambiguity. However, in those with higher interoceptive accuracy, skin conductance responses differentiated between risk and ambiguity as well as between the gamble phases (decision, anticipation, and outcome). Together, our findings demonstrate that decision‐making under uncertainty is to some extent associated with individual differences in the ability both to generate and to perceive accurately subtle changes in bodily arousal during the decision‐making process. However, these changes seem to be moderately related to the type of uncertainty (risk or ambiguity).
The social ontology of promising
Authors: Norris Steven
Published: May 2021

This paper takes an ontological approach to the subject of promising. Setting aside the typical concern over promissory obligations, I draw on recent work from the field of social ontology and develop a promissory schema that characterizes the functional role the practice of promising plays in our lives. This schema, put in terms of one agent's voluntary and intentional attempts to provide another agent with a specific kind of assurance, helps explain what we are doing when we make a promise, and what we desire when we ask that a promise be made. The promissory schema is explanatorily beneficial as it can help us understand why certain actions may be interpreted as promises, thereby reminding us that we need to be sensitive to the ways our actions can give rise to expectations in others.
Segregation or integration? Exploring activity disparities between migrants and settled urban residents using human mobility data
Authors: Gao Qi‐Li , Yue Yang , Tu Wei , Cao Jinzhou , Li Qing‐Quan
Published: May 2021

Due to the difficulty of tracking large numbers of new migrants, how their daily activity behaviors differ from those of settled residents has not been well investigated, leading to a lack of understanding of new migrants' integration. Meanwhile, existing research largely emphasized residential space and ignored other activity disparities. To obtain a more comprehensive picture of urban segregation, we identified new migrants and two settled urban groups from two kinds of human mobility data. A S‐T‐A‐D‐I interactive framework was proposed to measure segregation from multiple activity dimensions, including spatial colocation, temporal coexistence, accessibility, activity diversity, and social interaction. Two‐scale analysis of spatial colocation patterns reveals residential segregation by both residential location and housing type, suggesting the effectiveness of the mobility data in profiling socioeconomic groups. The temporal disparity in undertaking activities was unveiled by identifying temporal coexistence patterns. Moreover, the groups presented significant inequality in accessibility owing to the use of different travel modes, leading to a notable disparity in activity diversity. Jointly determined by the disparities in space, time, and diversity, the three groups generated a high level of self‐segregation, and new migrants and transit users presented very low interaction potentials with the car group.
Suppression of Residual Vibration in Nonlinear Systems With Temporal Variation and Uncertainty in Parameters by Elimination of the Natural Frequency Component
Authors: Mori Hiroki , Kurihara Kai , Sowa Nobuyuki , Kondou Takahiro
Published: May 2021

A systematic approach is developed for determining a control input for the point-to-point control of an overhead crane that exhibits temporal variation of rope length in addition to damping and nonlinearity, without inducing residual vibration. Complete suppression of the residual vibration is achieved by eliminating the natural frequency component of the cargo from the apparent external force, which is defined to include the effects of damping, nonlinearity, and parameter variation. Furthermore, an effective technique previously proposed by the authors for improving robustness to the modeling error of the natural frequency is extended. Numerical simulation results show that, even when cargo is hoisted up or down during operation, the proposed method realizes accurate positioning of the cargo without inducing residual vibration and sufficiently improves robustness. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first frequency-domain robust open-loop control strategy that ensures a theoretical zero amplitude for residual vibration in the absence of modeling error in nonlinear crane hoisting operation. The developed method is not only a contribution to the realization of low-cost and efficient crane hoisting operation, but is also applicable to the control of other nonlinear damped systems that include time-varying parameters.
Avasopasem manganese synergizes with hypofractionated radiation to ablate tumors through the generation of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Sishc Brock J. , Ding Lianghao , Nam Taek-Keun , Heer Collin D. , Rodman Samuel N. , Schoenfeld Joshua D. , Fath Melissa A. , Saha Debabrata , Pulliam Casey F. , Langen Britta , Beardsley Robert A. , Riley Dennis P. , Keene Jeffery L. , Spitz Douglas R. , Story Michael D.
Published: May 2021

Avasopasem manganese enhances tumor cell killing after ablative hypofractionated radiation through the generation of hydrogen peroxide.
CD4
+
T cells are essential for the development of destructive thyroiditis induced by anti–PD-1 antibody in thyroglobulin-immunized mice
Authors: Yasuda Yoshinori , Iwama Shintaro , Sugiyama Daisuke , Okuji Takayuki , Kobayashi Tomoko , Ito Masaaki , Okada Norio , Enomoto Atsushi , Ito Sachiko , Yan Yue , Sugiyama Mariko , Onoue Takeshi , Tsunekawa Taku , Ito Yoshihiro , Takagi Hiroshi , Hagiwara Daisuke , Goto Motomitsu , Suga Hidetaka , Banno Ryoichi , Takahashi Masahide , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi , Arima Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

CD4
+
T cells are essential for development of thyroiditis induced by anti–PD-1 antibody treatment in thyroglobulin-immunized mice.
A portable magnetofluidic platform for detecting sexually transmitted infections and antimicrobial susceptibility
Authors: Trick Alexander Y. , Melendez Johan H. , Chen Fan-En , Chen Liben , Onzia Annet , Zawedde Aidah , Nakku-Joloba Edith , Kyambadde Peter , Mande Emmanuel , Matovu Joshua , Atuheirwe Maxine , Kwizera Richard , Gilliams Elizabeth A. , Hsieh Yu-Hsiang , Gaydos Charlotte A. , Manabe Yukari C. , Hamill Matthew M. , Wang Tza-Huei
Published: May 2021

A portable magnetofluidic platform integrates nucleic acid purification and PCR to rapidly detect the pathogen causing gonorrhea in clinical samples.
Genome Sequences of 17 Diverse Pseudomonas aeruginosa Phages
Authors: Campbell Ross A. , Farlow Jason , Freyberger Helen R. , He Yunxiu , Ward Amanda M. , Ellison Damon W. , Getnet Derese , Swierczewski Brett E. , Nikolich Mikeljon P. , Filippov Andrey A.
Published: May 2021

Here, we describe genome sequences of 17
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
phages, including therapeutic candidates. They belong to the families
Myoviridae
,
Podoviridae
, and
Siphoviridae
and six different genera. The genomes ranged in size from 42,788 to 88,805 bp, with G+C contents of 52.5% to 64.3%, and the numbers of coding sequences from 58 to 179.
Complete Genome Sequences of
Curtobacterium
,
Pantoea
,
Erwinia
, and Two Pseudomonas sp. Strains, Isolated from Apple Flower Stigmas from Connecticut, USA
Authors: Cui Zhouqi , Steven Blaire , Zeng Quan
Published: May 2021

The genome sequences of 5 bacterial strains isolated from apple flower stigmas are reported. The strains represent species of
Curtobacterium
,
Pantoea
, and
Erwinia
and two species of
Pseudomonas
. These data will provide information for future taxonomic studies and information for investigating the metabolic and functional characteristics of apple flower-colonizing bacteria.
Complete Genome Sequence of Adlercreutzia equolifaciens subsp.
celatus
DSM 18785
Authors: Takahashi Haruno , Yang Jiayue , Yamamoto Hiromitsu , Fukuda Shinji , Arakawa Kazuharu
Published: May 2021

Adlercreutzia equolifaciens
subsp.
celatus
DSM 18785 was isolated from the cecal contents of a rat and is an obligately anaerobic equol-producing bacterium. Here, we report the finished and annotated genome sequence of this organism, which has a genome size of 2,929,991 bp and a G+C content of 63.2%.
The illustrations of Brongniart and Cuvier illuminate paleontology in the early nineteenth century
Authors: Bork Kennard B.
Published: May 2021

The concept of biostratigraphy was a significant step in the evolution of geoscience. Alexandre Brongniart (1770–1847) and Georges Cuvier (1769–1832) were key contributors to developing the subdiscipline as they worked to decode the stratigraphy of the Paris Basin in the first decades of the nineteenth century. Their illustrations of fossils, local geologic columns, and a regional geologic map played a decisive role in furthering an understanding of the value of paleontology in the service of illuminating Earth history.
Clay minerals modulate early carbonate diagenesis
Authors: Mills N. Tanner , Reece Julia S. , Tice Michael M.
Published: May 2021

Early diagenetic precipitation of authigenic carbonate has been a globally significant carbon sink throughout Earth history. In particular, SO42− and Fe3+ reduction and CH4 production create conditions in pore fluids that promote carbonate mineral precipitation; however, these conditions may be modified by the presence of acid-base buffers such as clay minerals. We integrated the acid-base properties of clay minerals into a biogeochemical model that predicts the evolution of pore-water pH and carbonate mineral saturation during O2, Fe3+, and SO42− reduction and CH4 production. Key model inputs were obtained using two natural clay mineral–rich sediments from the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program as well as from literature. We found that clay minerals can enhance carbonate mineral saturation during O2 and SO42− reduction and moderate saturation during Fe3+ reduction and CH4 production if the pore-fluid pH and clay mineral pKa values are within ~2 log units of one another. We therefore suggest that clay minerals could significantly modify the environmental conditions and settings in which early diagenetic carbonate precipitation occurs. In Phanerozoic marine sediments—where O2 and SO42− have been the main oxidants of marine sedimentary organic carbon—clay minerals have likely inhibited carbonate dissolution and promoted precipitation of authigenic carbonate.
Rare case ofMycobacterium marinumin a patient presenting with tenosynovitis
Authors: Langkilde Henrik Zachar , Nesten Kim , Morillon Melanie Birger
Published: May 2021

A 72-year-old man presented with tenosynovitis of the left hand’s extensor tendons that had been present for several months. He was initially treated with corticosteroids, first by local injection then systemically, but with no effect. When re-evaluated, the patient had developed a rash, and the symptoms had spread locally to surrounding structures. At this point, the patient added to the medical history that he had been stung by a sculpin a month before the debut of symptoms. Based on this, the patient’s involved area was biopsied, and subsequent microbiology findings proved consistent withMycobacterium marinuminfection. By the time of diagnosis, the patient had soft tissue involvement, arthritis and osteomyelitis with an overlying rash. This case emphasises the need for reassessment when treatment is not effective and for further investigations of the medical history to establish the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Systemic vascular air embolus following CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy: a potentially fatal complication
Authors: Pietersen Pia Iben , Jørgensen Gitte Maria , Christiansen Anders
Published: May 2021

Following an uncomplicated CT-guided transthoracic biopsy, a patient becomes unconscious and subsequently dies despite immediate cardiac resuscitation. The patient felt well during the procedure but started complaining about dizziness and chest pain when he sat up. When he again was put in a supine position, cardiac arrest was noted. A CT scan performed when the symptoms initiated was afterwards rigorously reviewed by the team and revealed air located in the left ventricle, aorta and right coronary artery.

We present a rare but potentially lethal complication following CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy—systemic vascular air embolus. Knowledge and evidence about the complication are sparse because of low incidence and varying presentation. However, immediate initiation of treatment can save a life, and awareness of the complication is therefore crucial.
Complete atrioventricular block due to ingestion of Visine eye drops
Authors: Afify Omar , Suleiman Abdul-Rahman M , Mohamed Hassan G , Saaed Omar
Published: May 2021

Visine eye drops are a commonly used topical drug for irritation of the eye. The active component in Visine eye drops is tetrahydrozoline. Tetrahydrozoline is an imidazoline derivative found in several ophthalmic and nasal decongestants. Exposure is common in young children, who unintentionally ingest it, but cases have been rising in the adult population. The main systemic effects are bradycardia and hypotension due to activation of the central alpha-adrenergic receptors. In this case report, a 76-year-old man presents with bradycardia after 24 hours following ingestion of 120 mL of 0.05% tetrahydrozoline (eight bottles of Visine eye drops) in a suicide attempt. His initial ECG demonstrated complete heart block and QT prolongation. Subsequent ECGs showed unremitting first-degree atrioventricular block and QT prolongation. Here, we are presenting the first case of complete heart block following tetrahydrozoline consumption.
Rare association of Klippel-Feil syndrome with situs inversus totalis and review of the genetic background
Authors: Abdali Husain Abdulameer , Duddu Joseph Rivendra , Mubarak Mohamed Jawad , Mohamed Almughirah Salahaldin
Published: May 2021

Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) is a rare congenital anomaly in forming the cervical vertebrae resulting in the fusion of two or more of the vertebrae. KFS is associated with many congenital anomalies, some of which are common and well known. Here, we report a child with an extremely rare association of KFS with situs inversus totalis (SIT). Both KFS and SIT are genetically heterogeneous and their co-occurrence suggests a high possibility of sharing the same underlying causative agent. Here, we review the genetic background that is known for these two conditions in the literature.
Idiopathic linear IgA bullous dermatosis treated with prednisone
Authors: Garces Christopher Cantoria , Salam M Fahad , Nohomovich Brian , Varghese Merryl Treasa
Published: May 2021

We present a case of a 43-year-old man with a medical history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation that presented with acute onset generalised vesiculobullous rash of 1-week duration. The rash was initially noticed on his groin and then spread to his hands, feet and mucosal surfaces. Laboratory tests were unremarkable, including an extensive infection aetiology work-up. Punch biopsies were obtained of a fresh lesion and were stained with H&E and sent for direct immunofluorescence. Light microscopy and immunofluorescence study demonstrated a subepidermal blister with predominant neutrophilic infiltrates and a linear band of IgA at the dermoepidermal junction, respectively. The patient was diagnosed with linear IgA bullous dermatosis and was subsequently treated with 0.5 mg/kg of prednisone daily following previous case reports. At 1-week follow-up as an outpatient, the bullae became crusted, and the rash was nearly completely regressed.
Rare presentation of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in an adult associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection: unilateral neck swelling
Authors: Li Mozhu , Haque Waqas , Vuppala Suchith , Tobias Ethan
Published: May 2021

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults (MIS-A) is a rare but often severe complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. While several case reports about MIS-A in the setting of COVID-19 have been published since the term was first coined in June 2020, a clear description of the underlying pathophysiology and guideline-based recommendations on the diagnostic and therapeutic approach are lacking. What has been reported is that in the absence of severe respiratory illness, MIS-A can present with hypotension or shock, high-grade fever, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and severe weakness days to weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, we present a case of a 28-year-old man who presented with a rarely described initial symptom: unilateral neck swelling. His presentation, disease progression and treatment course provide further information about MIS-A as a complication and in formulating diagnostic guidelines.
Delayed, transient and self-resolving neutropenia following COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Mank Victoria Marie Ferreira , Mank Jeffrey , Ogle Jenie , Roberts Jefferson
Published: May 2021

A novel coronaravirus, identified as SARS-CoV-2, spread throughout the world in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to many discoveries and clinical manifestations. A young patient is presented with new, self-resolving neutropenia presenting weeks after a prolonged hospital stay for COVID-19 pneumonia. Workup included analysis for underlying infection, nutritional abnormalities, malignancy, medication and toxin exposure, all of which were negative. From 2020 to the present, few reports have described neutropenia associated with a recent COVID-19 infection. In particular, no reports have described a delayed presentation of neutropenia. The authors would like to propose that the significant inflammatory response associated with COVID-19 is likely what led to this patient’s postviral neutropenia. Furthermore, in young healthy patients, bone marrow biopsy may be deferred and a watchful-waiting approach may be taken to assess for neutropenia resolution.
Limb body wall complex complicating a dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy: MRI for demonstration of fetal morphology
Authors: Kashyap Ravindar , Devaraj Sunil Kumar , Chakkalakkoombil Sunitha Vellathussery , Mohan Supraja Laguduva
Published: May 2021

Limb body wall complex (LBWC) is a rare, lethal malformation characterised by body wall defects, craniofacial and limb anomalies with or without various other organ anomalies. We report a case of dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy discordant for LBWC, diagnosed by ultrasound (US) and confirmed by MRI at 21 weeks’ gestation, managed expectantly and delivered at 35 weeks by emergency caesarean section with a favourable outcome of the unaffected twin. The anomalous twin, who died soon after birth, had a sizeable thoracoabdominal wall defect, eviscerated liver and bowel loops attached to the placenta, short cord, ectopia cordis, lung hypoplasia, kyphoscoliosis, right upper limb amelia and left clubfoot with polydactyly. MRI helps to demonstrate the fetal morphology better when there are limitations to the US due to unfavourable fetal position, multifetal gestation, maternal obesity or reduced liquor. In twin pregnancies, the management will depend on ensuring the survival of the unaffected twin.
Outcome Prognostication of Acute Brain Injury using the Neurological Pupil Index (ORANGE) study: protocol for a prospective, observational, multicentre, international cohort study
Authors: Oddo Mauro , Taccone Fabio , Galimberti Stefania , Rebora Paola , Citerio Giuseppe
Published: May 2021

Introduction

The pupillary examination is an important part of the neurological assessment, especially in the setting of acutely brain-injured patients, and pupillary abnormalities are associated with poor outcomes. Currently, the pupillary examination is based on a visual, subjective and frequently inaccurate estimation. The use of automated infrared pupillometry to measure the pupillary light reflex can precisely quantify subtle changes in pupillary functions. The study aimed to evaluate the association between abnormal pupillary function, assessed by the Neurological Pupil Index (NPi), and long-term outcomes in patients with acute brain injury (ABI).

Methods and analysis

The Outcome Prognostication of Acute Brain Injury using the Neurological Pupil Index study is a prospective, observational study including adult patients with ABI requiring admission at the intensive care unit. We aimed to recruit at least 420 patients including those suffering from traumatic brain injury or haemorrhagic strokes, over 12 months. The primary aim was to assess the relationship between NPi and 6-month mortality or poor neurological outcome, measured by the Extended Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS-E, poor outcome=GOS-E 1–4). Supervised and unsupervised methods and latent class mixed models will be used to identify patterns of NPi trajectories and Cox and logistic model to evaluate their association with outcome.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the institutional review board (Comitato Etico Brianza) on 16 July 2020. Approved protocol V.4.0 dated 10 March 2020. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04490005.
Acute psychological impact of coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak among psychiatric professionals in China: a multicentre, cross-sectional, web-based study
Authors: Guo Xin , McCutcheon Robert , Pillinger Toby , Arumuham Atheeshaan , Chen Jianhua , Ma Simeng , Yang Jun , Wang Ying , Hu Shaohua , Wang Gaohua , Liu Zhong-Chun
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To assess the magnitude of mental health outcomes and associated factors among psychiatric professionals in mental health services during COVID-19 in China.

Design, setting and participants

This cross-sectional, survey-based, region-stratified study collected demographic data and mental health measurements from psychiatric professionals in 34 hospitals between 29 January and 7 February 2020, in China. Hospitals equipped with fever clinics or deployed on wards for patients with COVID-19 were eligible.

Primary outcome and measures

The severity of symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia and distress were assessed by the Chinese versions of 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire, 7-item Generalised Anxiety Disorder, 7-item Insomnia Severity Index and 22-item Impact of Event Scale-Revised, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression and structural equation modelling was performed to identify factors associated with mental health outcomes.

Results

A total of 610 psychiatric professionals were included. 29.8% were employed in Wuhan, and 22.5% were frontline workers. A considerable proportion of participants reported symptoms of depression (461 (75.6%)), anxiety (282 (46.2%)), insomnia (336 (55.1%)) and mental stress (481 (78.9%)). Psychiatric symptoms were associated with worrying about infection (eg, OR 2.36 (95% CI 1.27 to 4.39) for anxiety), risks of exposure to COVID-19 (eg, having inadequate personal protection equipment, OR 2.43 (1.32 to 4.47) for depression) and self-perceived physical health (eg, OR 3.22 (2.24 to 4.64) for mental stress). Information sources of COVID-19 were also found to be both positively (eg, information from relatives, OR 2.16 (1.46 to 3.21) for mental stress) and negatively (eg, information from TV, OR 0.52 (0.35 to 0.77) for mental stress) associated with mental stress. There is preliminary evidence that mental health might benefit from greater availability of mental healthcare services. The structural equation model analysis indicated that worrying about infection may be the primary mediator via which risk of exposure to COVID-19 pandemic affects the mental health of psychiatric professionals.

Conclusions

The current findings demonstrate several pathways via which the COVID-19 pandemic may have negatively affected the mental health of psychiatric professionals in China.
Optimization Modeling and Empirical Research on Gasoline Octane Loss Based on Data Analysis
Authors: Guo Ji , Lou Yujia , Wang Wanyi , Wu Xianhua
Published: May 2021

Gasoline is one of the most consumed light petroleum products in transportation and other industries. This paper proposes a method for optimizing gasoline octane loss using data analysis technology aimed at optimizing the production process and minimizing the loss of gasoline octane. Firstly, the data are screened and the high-dimensional data are reduced to construct the neural network prediction model optimized by genetic algorithm. After utilizing the model for prediction, the optimal operating condition is achieved. Secondly, ensuring that the gasoline emission meets the standard, the octane loss is reduced by adjusting the operating variables. Thirdly, actual data are collected and calculated to obtain the main operating variables and their optimal operating conditions of a petrochemical company affecting the catalytic cracking gasoline S-Zorb unit, thus providing companies using S-Zorb units with reference data for optimizing gasoline catalytic cracking processes. Fourthly, the superiority of the proposed method was verified by comparing it with the other methods. This paper intends to contribute to better modeling the progress of gasoline catalytic cracking by adequately considering the impact of multiple factors, improving the quality of refined oil products of chemical enterprises, saving the economic cost of chemical enterprises, and protecting the atmospheric environment.
A RP-HPLC Method for the Analysis of Neostigmine Methylsulfate and Process-Related Impurities, Forced Degradation Studies, in the Injection Formulation
Authors: Parab Manali , Shirsat Vaishali A. , Kodgule Yogita M. , Kodgule Mandar
Published: May 2021

Neostigmine methylsulfate is an anticholinesterase agent and is clinically used for treating myasthenia gravis. It is also used for reversing nondepolarising neuromuscular blocking agents. Neostigmine methylsulfate may be administered by intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous injection. In this research paper, a distinct stability-indicating reverse phase HPLC method was developed and validated for the quantitative determination of related impurities and degradation impurities in neostigmine methylsulfate API and injection formulation. The specific objective was to improve the resolution between European Pharmacopoeia listed impurity A and impurity B and degradation impurity of neostigmine methylsulfate API and injection formulation. The analysis was performed using Kromasil C18 column at 30°C of column oven temperature with phosphate-buffer/acetonitrile in a gradient mode. The RP-HPLC method was developed and validated for in-house neostigmine methylsulfate synthesis process sample and injection formulation. The injection formulation sample was studied for accelerated stability, temperature cycling stability, and photostability. The validation studies for neostigmine methylsulfate synthesis process API were studied using impurity A, impurity B, and impurity C. The analytical method validation parameters studied were specificity, precision, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, accuracy, and robustness. The API and the injection formulation were subjected to forced degradation under acid, alkali, oxidation, and photolytic and thermal conditions. The proposed method showed a significantly improved RRT (Relative Retention Time) of impurity A and impurity B with a resolution greater than 1.5. The developed method eliminates the use of an ion-pairing agent and thereby a good performance of column was established.