bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Switching to iGlarLixi versus continuation of a daily or weekly glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1 RA) in insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes: A LixiLan‐G trial subgroup analysis by HbA1c and GLP‐1 RA use at screening
Authors: Rosenstock Julio , Blonde Lawrence , Aroda Vanita R. , Frias Juan , Souhami Elisabeth , Ji Chen , Niemoeller Elisabeth , Del Prato Stefano
Published: February 2021

Aim

In people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) requiring intensification beyond glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) and oral antihyperglycaemic drugs (OADs), switching to iGlarLixi was shown to be efficacious and well‐tolerated in the LixiLan‐G trial. This exploratory analysis of LixiLan‐G assessed the efficacy and safety of switching to iGlarLixi versus continuing GLP‐1 RA therapy, stratified by screening HbA1c level (≥7.0 to ≤7.5 %; >7.5 to ≤8.0 %; >8.0 to ≤9.0 % [≥53 to ≤58 mmol/mol; >58 to ≤64 mmol/mol; >64 to ≤75 mmol/mol]) and previous GLP‐1 RA regimen at screening (once/twice daily or once weekly).

Materials and Methods

Endpoints for all subgroups included: change in HbA1c, achievement of HbA1c <7 % and hypoglycaemia events. Adverse events and changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2‐hour postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), 2‐hour PPG excursion and weight were analysed according to previous GLP‐1 RA regimen.

Results

Switching to iGlarLixi in all subgroups resulted in significantly greater reductions in HbA1c and proportions of participants reaching HbA1c <7 % (including with no documented hypoglycaemia) at Week 26 compared with continued GLP‐1 RA treatment. Switching to iGlarLixi also led to significantly greater reductions in FPG, 2‐hour PPG, and 2‐hour PPG excursion, irrespective of previous GLP‐1 RA regimen. Rates of hypoglycaemia were low, but slightly higher in those who switched to iGlarLixi for all subgroups. Modest weight gain was seen with iGlarLixi, irrespective of previous GLP‐1 RA regimen.

Conclusions

Switching to iGlarLixi improved glycaemic control, regardless of screening HbA1c or previous GLP‐1 RA type, offering a simple, efficacious and well‐tolerated treatment intensification option for people with T2D inadequately controlled by GLP‐1 RAs and OADs.
International Law Concerning ART
Authors: Page Stephen
Published: February 2021

The article seeks to set out the current international legal landscape concerning international surrogacy arrangements and how domestic law and conventions might impact on international surrogacy arrangements.
Online Virtual Supervised Visitation During theCOVID‐19 Pandemic: One State's Experience
Authors: Oehme Karen , O'Rourke Kelly S. , Bradley Lyndi
Published: February 2021

This paper describes how supervised visitation programs in Florida rapidly transitioned from in‐person supervised visits to virtual, online visits during the COVID‐19 pandemic to protect the health of families and staff. Structured telephonic interviews and an online survey revealed that although most program directors had not previously developed guiding policies or hosted such visits, within weeks they were providing hundreds of online “virtual visits” between children and their non‐custodial parents to maintain the crucial parent–child relationship in a safe manner. Vignettes from this data provide lessons regarding parent and child reactions to virtual visits, advantages and disadvantages of virtual visits from the programs' perspectives, and levels of enthusiasm for using virtual visits going forward. In addition, the data includes recommendations for new program guidelines and protocols for the ongoing use of virtual visits. Although it is too early to call these policies best practices, the study does offer insight into the challenges and opportunities afforded by virtual visits and can inform disaster planning that supervised visitation programs develop to prepare for inevitable future disruptions in services to families.
High microbial diversity stabilizes the responses of soil organic carbon decomposition to warming in the subsoil on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Xu Meng , Li Xiaoliang , Kuyper Thomas W. , Xu Ming , Li Xiaolin , Zhang Junling
Published: February 2021

Soil microbes are directly involved in soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition, yet the importance of microbial biodiversity in regulating the temperature sensitivity of SOC decomposition remains elusive, particularly in alpine regions where climate change is predicted to strongly affect SOC dynamics and ecosystem stability. Here we collected topsoil and subsoil samples along an elevational gradient on the southeastern Tibetan Plateau to explore the temperature sensitivity (Q10) of SOC decomposition in relation to changes in microbial communities. Specifically, we tested whether the decomposition of SOC would be more sensitive to warming when microbial diversity is low. The estimated Q10 value ranged from 1.28 to 1.68, and 1.80 to 2.10 in the topsoil and subsoil, respectively. The highest Q10 value was observed at the lowest altitude of forests in the topsoil, and at the highest altitude of alpine meadow in the subsoil. Variations in Q10 were closely related to changes in microbial properties. In the topsoil the ratio of gram‐positive to gram‐negative bacteria (G+:G−) was the predominant factor associated with the altitudinal variations in Q10. In the subsoil, SOC decomposition showed more resilience to warming when the diversity of soil bacteria (both whole community and major groups) and fungi was higher. Our results partly support the positive biodiversity‐ecosystem stability hypothesis. Structural equation modeling further indicates that variations in Q10 in the subsoil were directly related to changes in microbial diversity and community composition, which were affected by soil pH. Collectively our results provide compelling evidence that microbial biodiversity plays an important role in stabilizing SOC decomposition in the subsoil of alpine montane ecosystems. Conservation of belowground biodiversity is therefore of great importance in maintaining the stability of ecosystem processes under climate change in high‐elevation regions of the Tibetan Plateau.
What drives study‐dependent differences in distance–decay relationships of microbial communities?
Authors: Clark Dave R. , Underwood Graham J.C. , McGenity Terry J. , Dumbrell Alex J.
Published: February 2021

Aim

Ecological communities that exist closer together in space are generally more compositionally similar than those far apart, as defined by the distance–decay of similarity relationship. However, recent research has revealed substantial variability in the distance–decay relationships of microbial communities between studies of different taxonomic groups, ecosystems and spatial scales and between those using different molecular methodologies (e.g., high‐throughput sequencing versus molecular fingerprinting). Here, we test how these factors influence the strength of microbial distance–decay relationships, in order to draw generalizations about how microbial β‐diversity scales with space.

Location

Global.

Time period

Studies published between 2005 and 2019 (inclusive).

Major taxa studied

Bacteria, Archaea and microbial Eukarya.

Methods

We conducted a meta‐analysis of microbial distance–decay relationships, using the Mantel correlation coefficient as a measure of the strength of distance–decay relationships. Our final dataset consisted of 452 data points, varying in environmental/ecological context or methodological approaches, and we used linear models to test the effects of each variable.

Results

Both ecological and methodological factors had significant impacts on the strength of microbial distance–decay relationships. Specifically, the strength of these relationships varied between environments and habitats, with soils showing significantly weaker distance–decay relationships than other habitats, whereas increasing spatial extents had no effect. Methodological factors, such as sequencing depth, were positively related to the strength of distance–decay relationships, and choice of dissimilarity metric was also important, with phylogenetic metrics generally giving weaker distance–decay relationships than binary or abundance‐based indices.

Main conclusions

We conclude that widely studied microbial biogeographical patterns, such as the distance–decay relationship, vary by ecological context but are primarily distorted by methodological choices. Consequently, we suggest that by linking methodological approaches appropriately to the ecological context of a study, we can progress towards generalizable biogeographical relationships in microbial ecology.
Virtual reality in problem‐based learning contexts: Effects on the problem‐solving performance, vocabulary acquisition and motivation of English language learners
Authors: Chen Ching‐Huei , Hung Hsiu‐Ting , Yeh Hui‐Chin
Published: February 2021

Learning a foreign language requires interaction with language input while involved in a task. Given that problem‐based learning (PBL) offers hands‐on application in realistic contexts, and that virtual reality (VR) enables learners to interact with multiple modalities of information, this study examines how the integration of VR technology into PBL contexts affects students' motivation for, problem‐solving during, and vocabulary acquisition in learning English as a foreign language (EFL). A total of 84 engineering majors who enrolled in a course of English for specific purposes were randomly assigned to either an experimental group or a control group. Students in the experimental group participated in a VR‐assisted PBL context, in which they were to view a PBL scenario using VR technology and then to create VR videos about solving the given problems. Those in the control group participated in a PBL context without the use of VR technology for viewing and solving the identical scenario. After the intervention, all the students wrote a problem‐solving analysis, took a vocabulary knowledge test, completed a learning motivation questionnaire, and participated in individual interviews. The results showed that the students in the experimental group significantly outperformed those in the control group in terms of vocabulary acquisition, and were more motivated to learn English related to their future careers, whereas there was no significant difference in the problem‐solving performance of the two groups. Implications of these findings highlight the value of engaging EFL learners in immersive environments for contextualized learning through the integrated use of VR and PBL.
Future forward: AGS initiative addressing intersection of structural racism and ageism in health care
Authors: Lundebjerg Nancy E. , Medina‐Walpole Annette M.
Published: February 2021

The American Geriatrics Society is committed to taking purposeful steps to address racism in health care, given its impact on older adults, their families, and our communities. In fall 2020, AGS added a statement to our vision for the future, which reflects that our commitment is central to mission: “We all are supported by and able to contribute to communities where ageism, ableism, classism, homophobia, racism, sexism, xenophobia, and other forms of bias and discrimination no longer impact healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for older adults and their caregivers.” In 2021, we will be working to flesh out a multi‐year, multi‐pronged initiative that addresses the intersection of structural racism and ageism in health care. This will include engaging members in identifying strategies and with the goal of increasing member engagement around the idea that it will take all of us working together to achieve our vision for a collective future that is free of discrimination and bias. The Society has set as the first objective that by 2031, 100% of research presented at the AGS Annual Scientific Meeting and published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (JAGS) will reflect the diversity of the population being studied. Other immediate efforts include undertaking a complete update of the Geriatrics Cultural Navigator, development of corresponding public education materials, and a webinar series focused on helping us all understand our own implicit bias, recognize implicit and explicit bias, and consider actions that we each might take to address bias when we observe it.
Discerning Motivational Interviewing through a spiritual lens—discovering a Christian MI archetype and native MI language
Authors: Butler Mark H. , Gossner Jacob D. , Barham Connor C. , Hansen‐Bethea Madeline C. , Crawford Misha D.
Published: February 2021

An overarching conceptual perspective on motivational interviewing (MI) captures how it evokes intrinsic motivation for change by relying on four key elements: establishing vision, exploring discrepancy, and building efficacy, which coalesce to resolve for change. We suggest that the Christian narrative and doctrines of creation, fall, and redemption, motivating repentance resolve, invoke these same motivating processes. In this paper we explore these parallels between MI and Christian doctrine and use empirical literature to suggest how secular and religious counselors can enhance their efforts to evoke intrinsic motivation for change with religious clients by employing their “native language” within this framework of MI process.
Predictors of Self‐Efficacy Among People With Spinal Cord Injury During Inpatient Rehabilitation: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Li Yan , Chien Wai Tong , Zhu Bingqian , He Honggu , Bressington Daniel
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the predictors of self‐efficacy among Chinese people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Design

A cross‐sectional, descriptive, correlational design was adopted.

Methods

121 participants were recruited from two rehabilitation hospitals in Shaanxi, China, from August 2016 to June 2017. The Moorong Self‐Efficacy Scale was used to assess participants’ self‐efficacy levels. Participants’ sociodemographic or clinical characteristics, functional independence, coping ability (measured using the Brief Coping Orientations to Problems Experienced Inventory), and social support (measured using the Six‐item Social Support Questionnaire) were assessed as potential predictors of self‐efficacy. A multiple linear regression model was conducted to identify the factors predicting self‐efficacy score.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 41 (SD 11.9) years and 90% were male. Participants’ mean self‐efficacy score was 53.9 (SD 15.7). Multiple linear regression results indicated that injury type (i.e., paraplegia or tetraplegia; β = 0.290, p < .001) and adaptive coping (β = 0.561, p < .001) were significant predictors, accounting for 62% of the variance in self‐efficacy scores.

Conclusions

Our findings imply that psychosocial interventions that target enhancing various adaptive coping strategies could have positive effects on self‐efficacy in people with SCI.

Clinical Relevance

Injury type and adaptive coping ability are two key factors related to patients’ self‐efficacy post‐SCI. Psychosocial interventions that target enhancing various adaptive coping strategies could have positive effects on self‐efficacy in people with SCI.
Efficacy and safety of triple wavelength laser hair reduction in skin types IV to V
Authors: Raj Kirit E.P. , Sivuni Aishwarya , Ponugupati Sridevi , Gold Michel H.
Published: February 2021

Background

Laser hair reduction is one of the most common laser procedures in dermatology. Laser systems available are Ruby at 694 nm, Alexandrite (755 nm), Diode (810nm), and Nd:YAG (1064 nm). Recently, devices presenting a combination of wavelengths have shown to produce high effective hair reduction with no related risks. This study was conducted with the Soprano Ice Platinum (Alma Lasers, GMBH, Germany) that emits a combination of three wavelengths at 755, 810, and 1064 nm in a single pulse.

Aims

To establish the efficacy and safety of novel triple wavelength laser hair reduction technology in skin types IV to V.

Patients and Methods

This was an investigator initiated, single‐center, prospective clinical study conducted between December 2017 and June 2019 with a total of 25 patients (23 female and two male) above 18 years with skin types IV and V, areas included are face, beard, neck, chest, and others.

Results

Hair reduction was assessed using the physician GAIS (global esthetic improvement scale) score: no results 0% reduction, poor 0%‐25% reduction, average 25%‐50%, good 50%‐75%, and excellent 75%‐100%. All 25 patients (mean age 28 years, range 18‐52 y/o) completed all six sessions of the study.

Conclusion

Objective clinical assessment of hair reduction using the physician GAIS score in 90 anatomical sites scores an excellent reduction in 95.5% areas and good reduction in 80% areas. This current study shows that a synergistic combination of three diode laser wavelengths used for hair removal (755, 810, 1064 nm) is effective and safe to use in subjects skin types IV and V for facial and body hair.
Effects of plant extracts from Stryphnodendron adstringens (mart.) coville, Lafoensia pacari a. st.‐hil, copaifera spp., and Pterodon emarginatus Vogel on in vitro rumen fermentation
Authors: Lemos Barbara J. M. , Souza Flavia M. , Arnhold Emmanuel , Conceição Edemilson C. , Couto Victor R. M. , Fernandes Juliano J. R.
Published: February 2021

The effects of doses CTL (0 mg), 30, 300 and 3000 mg/L of extracts from Stryphnodendron adstringens (Mart.) Coville (SA), Lafoensia pacari A. St.‐Hil (LP), Copaifera spp. (CO) and Pterodon emarginatus Vogel (PE) on ruminal fermentation were investigated in eight experiments conducted in randomized complete block designs. The in vitro system contained four fermentation vessels. Each treatment was allocated in one vessel in each run. Incubation was run four and five times with diets 50:50 and 10:90 (roughage to concentrate ratio) respectively. Incubation vessel was the experimental unit, and each incubation run was a block. All plant extracts negatively affected DM degradation at 3000 mg/L. In diet 50:50, SA‐3000 increased the molar proportion of propionate (p < 0.05), yet it decreased the concentration of fermentation products (p < 0.05); LP‐300 reduced ruminal ammonia nitrogen (NH3‐N; 98 vs. 120 mg/dl for LP‐300 and average of CTL and LP‐30, respectively) and isobutyrate (p < 0.05); CO‐300 reduced (p < 0.05) NH3‐N (98 vs. 123 mg/dl for CO‐300 and average of CTL and CO‐30, respectively); and P. emarginatus had no positive effects on rumen fermentation (p > 0.05). In diet 10:90, SA‐300 reduced (p < 0.001) NH3‐N and total volatile fatty acids (VFA); LP‐30 increased (p < 0.05) total VFA (85 vs. 63 mM for LP‐30 and CTL, respectively), molar proportions of acetate and propionate, and had lower C2:C3 than CTL (3.6 vs. 4.3, respectively); CO‐300 decreased acetate and increased propionate, reducing C2:C3 (p < 0.001; 2.8 vs. 3.6 for CO‐300 and average of other doses, respectively); PE‐30 and PE‐300 reduced NH3‐N by 14% and increased total VFA by 29% compared with CTL (p < 0.05). Further in vivo investigations may consider L. pacari (LP‐30), Copaifera spp. (CO‐300) oleoresin and P. emarginatus oleoresin (PE‐30 and PE‐300) in diets with high inclusion of concentrate.
Thermal adaptation rather than demographic history drives genetic structure inferred by copy number variants in a marine fish
Authors: Cayuela Hugo , Dorant Yann , Mérot Claire , Laporte Martin , Normandeau Eric , Gagnon‐Harvey Stéphane , Clément Marie , Sirois Pascal , Bernatchez Louis
Published: February 2021

Increasing evidence shows that structural variants represent an overlooked aspect of genetic variation with consequential evolutionary roles. Among those, copy number variants (CNVs), including duplicated genomic regions and transposable elements (TEs), may contribute to local adaptation and/or reproductive isolation among divergent populations. Those mechanisms suppose that CNVs could be used to infer neutral and/or adaptive population genetic structure, whose study has been restricted to microsatellites, mitochondrial DNA and Amplified fragment length polymorphism markers in the past and more recently the use of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Taking advantage of recent developments allowing CNV analysis from RAD‐seq data, we investigated how variation in fitness‐related traits, local environmental conditions and demographic history are associated with CNVs, and how subsequent copy number variation drives population genetic structure in a marine fish, the capelin (Mallotus villosus). We collected 1538 DNA samples from 35 sampling sites in the north Atlantic Ocean and identified 6620 putative CNVs. We found associations between CNVs and the gonadosomatic index, suggesting that six duplicated regions could affect female fitness by modulating oocyte production. We also detected 105 CNV candidates associated with water temperature, among which 20% corresponded to genomic regions located within the sequence of protein‐coding genes, suggesting local adaptation to cold water by means of gene sequence amplification. We also identified 175 CNVs associated with the divergence of three previously defined parapatric glacial lineages, of which 24% were located within protein‐coding genes, making those loci potential candidates for reproductive isolation. Lastly, our analyses unveiled a hierarchical, complex CNV population structure determined by temperature and local geography, which was in stark contrast to that inferred based on SNPs in a previous study. Our findings underline the complementarity of those two types of genomic variation in population genomics studies.
Evidence for ephemeral ring species formation during the diversification history of western fence lizards (Sceloporus occidentalis)
Authors: Bouzid Nassima M. , Archie James W. , Anderson Roger A. , Grummer Jared A. , Leaché Adam D.
Published: February 2021

Divergence is often ephemeral, and populations that diverge in response to regional topographic and climatic factors may not remain reproductively isolated when they come into secondary contact. We investigated the geographical structure and evolutionary history of population divergence within Sceloporus occidentalis (western fence lizard), a habitat generalist with a broad distribution that spans the major biogeographical regions of Western North America. We used double digest RAD sequencing to infer population structure, phylogeny and demography. Population genetic structure is hierarchical and geographically structured with evidence for gene flow between biogeographical regions. Consistent with the isolation–expansion model of divergence during Quaternary glacial–interglacial cycles, gene flow and secondary contact are supported as important processes explaining the demographic histories of populations. Although populations may have diverged as they spread northward in a ring‐like manner around the Sierra Nevada and southern Cascade Ranges, there is strong evidence for gene flow among populations at the northern terminus of the ring. We propose the concept of an “ephemeral ring species” and contrast S. occidentalis with the classic North American ring species, Ensatina eschscholtzii. Contrary to expectations of lower genetic diversity at northern latitudes following post‐Quaternary‐glaciation expansion, the ephemeral nature of divergence in S. occidentalis has produced centres of high genetic diversity for different reasons in the south (long‐term stability) vs. the north (secondary contact).
Detecting genetic signals of selection in heavily bottlenecked reindeer populations by comparing parallel founder events
Authors: de Jong Menno J. , Lovatt Fiona , Hoelzel A. Rus
Published: February 2021

Founder populations are of special interest to both evolutionary and conservation biologists, but the detection of genetic signals of selection in these populations is challenging due to their demographic history. Geographically separated founder populations likely to have been subjected to similar selection pressures provide an ideal but rare opportunity to overcome these challenges. Here we take advantage of such a situation generated when small, isolated founder populations of reindeer were established on the island of South Georgia, and using this system we look for empirical evidence of selection overcoming strong genetic drift. We generated a 70 k ddRADseq single nucleotide polymorphism database for the two parallel reindeer founder populations and screened for signatures of soft sweeps. We find evidence for a genomic region under selection shared among the two populations, and support our findings with Wright–Fisher model simulations to assess the power and specificity of interpopulation selection scans—namely Bayescan, OutFLANK, PCadapt and a newly developed scan called Genome Wide Differentiation Scan (GWDS)—in the context of pairwise source–founder comparisons. Our simulations indicate that loci under selection in small founder populations are most probably detected by GWDS, and strengthen the hypothesis that the outlier region represents a true locus under selection. We explore possible, relevant functional roles for genes in linkage with the detected outlier loci.
Plant 3D genomics: the exploration and application of chromatin organization
Authors: Pei Liuling , Li Guoliang , Lindsey Keith , Zhang Xianlong , Wang Maojun
Published: February 2021

Eukaryotic genomes are highly folded for packing into higher‐order chromatin structures in the nucleus. With the emergence of state‐of‐the‐art chromosome conformation capture methods and microscopic imaging techniques, the spatial organization of chromatin and its functional implications have been interrogated. Our knowledge of 3D chromatin organization in plants has improved dramatically in the past few years, building on the early advances in animal systems. Here, we review recent advances in 3D genome mapping approaches, our understanding of the sophisticated organization of spatial structures, and the application of 3D genomic principles in plants. We also discuss directions for future developments in 3D genomics in plants.
Effect of a virtual self‐management intervention for atrial fibrillation during the outbreak of COVID‐19
Authors: Rosman Lindsey , Armbruster Tiffany , Kyazimzade Sayyad , Tugaoen Zachary , Mazzella Anthony J. , Deyo Zack , Walker Jennifer , Machineni Sriram , Gehi Anil
Published: February 2021

Background

As the pandemic continues to unfold, effective, technology‐based solutions are needed to help patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) maintain their health and well‐being during the outbreak of COVID‐19.

Methods

This single‐center, pilot study investigated the effects of a 4‐week (eight sessions) virtual AF self‐management program. Questionnaires were completed at baseline and 1 week after the intervention, and assessed AF knowledge, adherence to self‐management behaviors, mental health, physical function, and disease‐specific quality of life in patients with AF. Secondary outcomes included knowledge of COVID‐19, intervention, acceptability, and satisfaction.

Results

Of 68 patients who completed baseline questionnaires, 57 participated in the intervention and were included in the analysis (mean age of 73.4 ± 10.0 years, 60% male). Adherence to AF self‐monitoring behaviors, including monitoring their heart rate (p < .001), heart rhythm (p = .003), and blood pressure (p = .013) were significantly improved at the end of the intervention compared with baseline. Symptom identification (p = .007) and management (p < .001) also improved. Reductions in sleep disturbance (p < .001), anxiety (p = .014), and depression (p = .046) were also observed. Misinformation and inaccurate beliefs about COVID‐19 were significantly reduced at the end of the intervention compared with baseline.

Conclusions

This pilot study suggests that a virtual patient education program could have beneficial effects on adherence to guideline‐recommend self‐care of AF, emotional wellbeing, physical function, and knowledge of COVID‐19 in patients with AF. Future randomized studies in larger samples are needed to determine the clinical benefits of the intervention.
Whole‐body MRI in pediatric undefined inflammatory conditions
Authors: Giani Teresa , Matteoni Veronica , Perrone Anna , Simonini Gabriele , Cimaz Rolando
Published: February 2021

Background

Whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI) is a multiregional imaging technique suitable for investigating the extent of multisystemic diseases without exposure to radiation, with a high sensitivity to bone alterations. The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of WBMRI in the workup of children with non‐specific musculoskeletal features and non‐indicative laboratory and instrumental data, who were suspected to have a rheumatologic disease.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed medical records, including laboratory tests and radiological data of 34 children who had been evaluated due to non‐specific musculoskeletal manifestations, for which a WBMRI was prescribed.

Results

We included 34 children, 19 females and 15 males, mean age 10 years (range 2–16 years), with the following clinical features: diffuse arthralgia (12 children), persistent fever (2 children), persistent fever and diffuse arthralgia (20 children). Serologic inflammatory markers were increased in 29/34 patients. Twenty‐five children had already received X‐ray and / or ultrasound before WBMRI, with a negative / uninformative result. WBMRI was performed 3–6 weeks (median, 3.5 weeks) after the initial presentation of symptoms. In 22/34 (65%) children, WBMRI revealed some abnormalities that supported the final diagnosis. Twelve out of 34 children (35%) were be affected by chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis.

Conclusions

WBMRI is helpful in pediatric rheumatology for the differential diagnosis of undefined inflammatory conditions. It appears to be a promising tool, especially in the detection of multifocal bone lesions. The diagnosis that mainly benefits from WBMRI in our series is chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis. WBMRI can also help in excluding neoplastic diseases.
Comparative study of imiquimod 3.75% vs. photodynamic therapy for actinic keratosis of the scalp
Authors: Cortelazzi Chiara , Odorici Giulia , Castagnetti Elisa , Pellacani Giovanni , Di Nuzzo Sergio
Published: February 2021

Background/purpose

To assess efficacy, tolerability, adverse effects, recurrence, and aesthetic results of imiquimod 3.75% vs. photodynamic therapy with 5‐aminolaevulinic acid (MAL‐PDT) for actinic keratosis (AK).

Methods

A small randomized, intraindividual right‐left pilot study for AK treatment of multiple scalp lesions was performed. Patients were treated with imiquimod and subsequently MAL‐PDT (on opposite sides of the scalp) 14 days apart. Study end points were evaluated with clinical and dermoscopic examinations at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results

Nine male bald patients were enrolled. Imiquimod achieved a slightly higher overall clearance rate than MAP‐PDT (68.1% vs 56.5%). According to AK degree of severity, clearance rates were greater for degree I and III with imiquimod (68.8%, 64.5% and 75% with imiquimod vs. 48%, 69.8%, and 66.7% for MAL‐PDT, respectively). At 12 months, a slightly higher total recurrence rate was noted for imiquimod compared with MAL‐PDT (9.9% vs. 8.6%); new lesions were 2 degree I for imiquimod and 4 degree I for MAL‐PDT. For both treatments, pain was moderate/strong (even if MAL‐PDT seems to be less tolerable) adverse effects are common and transient; aesthetic results excellent.

Conclusion

Both imiquimod and MAL‐PDT were effective in the reduction in the number of AK. In the long‐term, both present a good effectiveness maintained over time with excellent aesthetic results. A combination or sequential therapy could optimize the management of the cancerization field.
Exophytic cavernous hemangioma arising from the right ventricle: Report of a rare case
Authors: Kamata Keita , Hao Hiroyuki , Ishige Toshiyuki , Shimodai‐Yamada Sayaka , Sezai Akira , Taoka Makoto , Osaka Shunji , Suzuki Keito , Tanaka Masashi
Published: February 2021

Cardiac hemangioma is relatively rare, accounting for approximately 1–3% of all primary heart tumors. This benign tumor may be an incidental lesion, but can also cause arrhythmias, pericardial effusion, congestive heart failure or outflow obstruction. We report a rare case with exophytic cardiac hemangioma arising from the right ventricle. Echocardiography showed an approximately 40 mm round protruding mass on the anterior wall of the right ventricle. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance demonstrated isointense and hyperintense signals on T1‐ and T2‐weighted images, respectively. These imaging studies suggested a pericardial cyst. Perioperative findings indicated a globular, exophytic mass, vascular in nature, arising from the right ventricle. The lesion was resected directly, and the space left by defect in the right ventricular wall was covered with a bovine pericardial patch. Cardiac hemangiomas are generally endoluminal tumors, but we must keep in mind that the differential diagnoses include various pericardial lesions by medical images.
Maternal death analysis based on data from the nationwide registration system in Japan (2010–2018)
Authors: Wakasa Tomoko , Ishibashi‐Ueda Hatsue , Takeuchi Makoto
Published: February 2021

The maternal mortality rate in Japan was 3.5 per 100 000 live births in 2017, similar to that reported in other developed countries. To reduce the number of maternal deaths, a Japanese nationwide registration and analysis system was implemented in 2010. Between January 2010 and April 2018, 367 maternal deaths were reported. Among them, by reviewing 80 autopsy records, the direct obstetric causes of death were identified in 52 women. The major causes of deaths were amniotic fluid embolism and acute pulmonary thromboembolism. The other 26 maternal deaths were associated with indirect obstetric causes including invasive Group A Streptococcus infection, aortic dissection, cerebral stroke and cardiomyopathies. This review highlights the importance of autopsy in maternal deaths. On analyzing 42 autopsy specimens obtained from registered cases of maternal death during 2012–2015, the 36% of causes of death by autopsy were discordant with the clinical diagnosis. Moreover, of the 38% of non‐autopsied maternal death, the cause of death could not be clarified from the clinical chart. We emphasized that detailed autopsies are necessary to clarify the precise pathologic evidence related to pregnancy and delivery, especially causes of unexpected death such as amniotic fluid embolism.
Complete genome sequences and properties of Spartina mottle virus isolates from hybrid Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon × Cynodon transvaalensis)
Authors: Thomas John E. , Raymond Myriam , Tran Nga T. , Crew Kathleen S. , Teo Ai Chin , Geering Andrew D. W.
Published: February 2021

Full genome sequences are presented for two isolates of Spartina mottle virus (SpMoV) from two accessions of the hybrid turf grass Cynodon dactylon × C. transvaalensis (Bermuda grass, green couch), originally from the USA but detected during post‐entry quarantine in Australia. Both isolates had a genome of 9,346 nucleotides, encoding a single polyprotein of 3,029 amino acids and predicted to be cleaved into 10 mature proteins. Phylogenetic analysis strongly supported placement in a new genus within the family Potyviridae. The isolates possess 715–780 × 11–12 nm flexuous virions and produce cylindrical (pinwheel) inclusions in infected cells. They were mechanically transmitted to several species in the Poaceae including Zea mays (maize, sweet corn), Chloris gayana (Rhodes grass), and Echinochloa colona (awnless barnyard grass).
The well‐being and burden of caregiving for patients with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Vescovelli Francesca , Ruini Chiara
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Well‐being and positive psychological functioning may protect caregivers from experiencing burden. Despite this, research has scarcely explored these variables among caregivers of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). This research endeavoured (1) to measure differences in distress and well‐being between caregivers of PD patients and caregivers assisting individuals suffering from non‐neurodegenerative age‐related health problems (controls); and (2) to evaluate the predictors of well‐being, distress and caregiver burden in the total sample of caregivers.

Methods

The study has a cross‐sectional design. 100 caregivers were recruited from centres for ageing individuals. 50 caregivers assisted patients with PD, while the other 50 were considered as controls. Participants completed self‐report questionnaires concerning psychological well‐being, life satisfaction, post‐traumatic growth, distress and symptomatology. Multiple regression analysis was performed on the dataset of the total sample (N = 100), exploring the possible predictors and correlates of caregiver burden.

Results

Caregivers who assisted patients with PD significantly experienced more depression, more distress and less well‐being when compared to controls. The main significant correlates of caregiver burden were older age, less psychological well‐being and more depression.

Conclusions

Parkinson's disease caregivers reported more impairment in psychological well‐being and higher rates of distress. In the total sample of caregivers (of patients with PD and of healthy individuals), depression and specific areas of well‐being (environmental mastery, personal growth) correlated to the burden of caregiving. Psychosocial interventions focused on these dimensions may help caregivers to better cope with the possible burden of the assistance.
Pathways to Modern Family Planning: A Longitudinal Study on Social Influence among Men and Women in Benin
Authors: Igras Susan , Burgess Sarah , Chantelois‐Kashal Heather , Diakité Mariam , Giuffrida Monica , Lundgren Rebecka
Published: February 2021

Despite improvements in family planning (FP) knowledge and services in West Africa, unmet need for FP continues to grow. Many programs apply a demographically and biologically driven definition of unmet need, overlooking the complex social environment in which fertility and FP decisions are made. This longitudinal, qualitative cohort study captures the changing nature of FP need, attitudes and behaviors, taking into account life context to inform understanding of the complex behavior change process. Purposively sampled, 25 women and 25 men participated in three rounds of in‐depth interviews over 18 months. Analyses used a social network influence lens. Findings suggest alignment of six foundational building blocks operating at individual, couple, services, and social levels is essential to meet FP need. If one block is weak, a person may not achieve met need. Women and men commonly follow five pathways as they seek to fulfill their FP need. Some pathways achieve met need (determined users, quick converters), some do not (side effect avoiders), and some do not lead to consistent FP outcomes (male‐priority decision makers, gender–egalitarian decision makers). Findings clarify the role of social determinants of FP and offer insight into program approaches informed by user typologies and return on program investments.
Impact of serological and PCR testing requirements on the selection of COVID‐19 convalescent plasma donors
Authors: Carter Jason A. , Freedenberg Alex T. , Romeiser Jamie L. , Talbot Lillian R. , Browne Nicholas J. , Cosgrove Megan E. , Shevik Margaret E. , Generale Laura M. , Rago Molly G. , Caravella Giuseppina A. , Ahmed Tahmeena , Mamone Linda J. , Bennett‐Guerrero Elliott ,   The Stony Brook Medicine COVID Plasma Trial Group
Published: February 2021

Background

Convalescent plasma is undergoing randomized trials as a potential therapeutic option for COVID‐19 infection. Little empirical evidence exists regarding the determination of donor eligibility and experiences with donor selection.

Study Design and Methods

This prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in New York to select plasma donors for a randomized, double‐blind, controlled convalescent plasma trial. Clearance for donation required successful completion of an online questionnaire and an in‐person screening visit, which included (a) completion of a Donor Health Questionnaire (DHQ), (b) Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody testing using an immunochromatographic anti‐ severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) test, (c) Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing if <28 days from symptom resolution, and (d) routine blood bank testing.

Results

After receiving 3093 online questionnaires, 521 individuals presented for in‐person screening visits, with 40.1% (n = 209) fully qualifying. Subjects (n = 312) failed to progress due to the following reasons: disqualifying answer from DHQ (n = 30, 9.6%), insufficient antibodies (n = 198, 63.5%), persistent positive PCR tests (n = 14, 4.5%), and blood donation testing labs (n = 70, 22.4%). Importantly, 24.6% and 11.1% of potential donors who reported having PCR‐diagnosed infection had low or undetectable SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody levels, respectively. Surprisingly, 62.9% (56/89) of subjects had positive PCR tests 14–27 days after symptom resolution, with 13 individuals continuing to be PCR positive after 27 days.

Conclusion

It is feasible for a single site to fully qualify a large number of convalescent plasma donors in a short period of time. Among otherwise qualified convalescent plasma donors, we found high rates of low or undetectable antibody levels and many individuals with persistently positive PCR tests.
Aorta, liver, and portal vein CT contrast enhancement during the portal venous phase are positively associated with abdominal fat percentage in dogs
Authors: Kan Jennifer , Milne Marjorie
Published: February 2021

Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) is increasingly being used as a standard diagnostic test for dogs with suspected abdominal pathology. The iodinated contrast dose is commonly calculated based on linear increases in total body weight. However, body fat is not metabolically active and contributes little to dispersing or diluting the contrast medium in the blood. The aim of this retrospective single‐center analytic study was to investigate the possible correlation between abdominal organ and vessel enhancement, and abdominal fat percentage in dogs. We hypothesized that, when dosing intravenous iodinated contrast according to total body weight, there would be a positive association between the degree of contrast enhancement of selected organs and vessels with increasing abdominal fat percentage. Vascular and parenchymal attenuation data were collected from 62 multiphasic abdominal CECT scans performed on dogs over a 5‐year period at U‐Vet Werribee Animal Hospital between February 2014 and February 2019. Findings based on a linear regression model showed a positive association of aorta (P = .005), liver (P = .045), and portal vein (P = .001) enhancement to abdominal fat percentage during the portal venous phase. Authors recommend that other body size parameters, such as lean body weight, should be considered when calculating iodine dose for abdominal contrast‐enhanced CT in dogs.
Fully Coupled Large Eddy Simulation-Conjugate Heat Transfer Analysis of a Ribbed Cooling Passage Using the Immersed Boundary Method
Authors: Oh Tae Kyung , Tafti Danesh K. , Nagendra Krishnamurthy
Published: February 2021

The study focuses on evaluating fully coupled conjugate heat transfer (CHT) simulation in a ribbed cooling passage with a fully developed flow assumption using large eddy simulation (LES) with the immersed boundary method (IBM-LES-CHT). The IBM-LES and the IBM-CHT frameworks are validated by simulating purely convective heat transfer in the ribbed duct, and a laminar boundary layer flow over a 2D flat plate with heat conduction, respectively. For the main conjugate simulations, a ribbed duct geometry with a blockage ratio of 0.3 is simulated at a bulk Reynolds number of 10,000 with a conjugate boundary condition applied to the rib surface. The nominal Biot number is kept at 1, which is similar to the comparative experiment. It is shown that the time scale disparity between turbulent fluid flow and heat conduction in solid can be overcome by using an artificially high solid thermal diffusivity. While the diffusivity impacts the instantaneous fluctuations in temperature and heat transfer, it has an insignificant effect on the predicted Nusselt number. Comparison between IBM-LES-CHT and iso-flux heat transfer simulations shows that the iso-flux case predicts higher local Nusselt numbers at the back face of the rib. Furthermore, the local Nusselt number augmentation ratio (EF) predicted by IBM-LES-CHT is compared with experiment and another LES conjugate simulation. The present LES calculations predict higher EFs on the leading face of the rib and show a different trend at the trailing face when CHT is activated.
A Stochastic Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Algorithm for Dynamic Load Prioritization in Grid-Interactive Efficient Buildings
Authors: Kundu Soumya , Bhattacharya Arnab , Chandan Vikas , Radhakrishnan Nikitha , Adetola Veronica , Vrabie Draguna
Published: February 2021

Increasing deployment of advanced sensing, controls, and communication infrastructure enables buildings to provide services to the power grid, leading to the concept of grid-interactive efficient buildings. Since occupant activities and preferences primarily drive the availability and operational flexibility of building devices, there is a critical need to develop occupant-centric approaches that prioritize devices for providing grid services, while maintaining the desired end-use quality of service. In this paper, we present a decision-making framework that facilitates a building owner/operator to effectively prioritize loads for curtailment service under uncertainties, while minimizing any adverse impact on the occupants. The proposed framework uses a stochastic (Markov) model to represent the probabilistic behavior of device usage from power consumption data, and a load prioritization algorithm that dynamically ranks building loads using a stochastic multi-criteria decision-making algorithm. The proposed load prioritization framework is illustrated via numerical simulations in a residential building use-case, including plug-loads, air-conditioners, and plug-in electric vehicle chargers, in the context of load curtailment as a grid service. Suitable metrics are proposed to evaluate the closed-loop performance of the proposed prioritization algorithm under various scenarios and design choices. Scalability of the proposed algorithm is established via computational analysis, while time-series plots are used for intuitive explanation of the ranking choices.
Parameter Identification and Sensitivity Analysis for Zero-Dimensional Physics-Based Lithium-Sulfur Battery Models
Authors: Xu Chu , Cleary Timothy , Li Guoxing , Wang Donghai , Fathy Hosam
Published: February 2021

This paper examines parameter estimation for Lithium-Sulfur (Li-S) battery models from experimental data. Li-S batteries are attractive compared to traditional Lithium-ion batteries, thanks largely to their potential to achieve higher energy densities. The literature presents a number of Li-S battery models with varying fidelity and complexity levels. This includes both high-fidelity diffusion-reaction models as well as zero-dimensional models that neglect diffusion dynamics while capturing the underlying reduction-oxidation reaction physics. This paper focuses on four zero-dimensional models, representing different possible sets of redox reactions. There is a growing need for using experimental data sets to both parameterize and compare these models. To address this, Li-S coin cells were fabricated and tested. In parallel, a sensitivity analysis of key model parameters was conducted. Using this analysis, a subset of model parameters was selected for identification and estimation in all four Li-S battery models.