bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronological Skin Changes Through Postmastectomy Radiotherapy Based on Radiotherapy Techniques: Using Quantitative Dermatological Measurements
Authors: Yang Kyungmi , Park Won , Cho Juhee , Kang Danbee , Choi Doo Ho , Kim Haeyoung , Cho Won Kyung , Park Hyeokgon , Kim Eunjoo
Published: May 2021

Background: There has been few research on how to measure skin status quantitatively throughout the course of radiotherapy (RT). We evaluated the changes in the skin induced by 2 different RT techniques using objective measurements in breast cancer patients. Methods: In this prospective study, between August 2015 and March 2019, serial measurements of the dermatological factors during and after postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) were made in 40 breast cancer patients. PMRT was performed using the conventional photon tangential technique (PTT) or patient-tailored bolus technique (PTB). We analyzed these measurements using a mixed effect model and compared the clinically evaluated radiation dermatitis and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Results: The trend of changes in melanin and erythema was significantly different between the PTB and PTT groups (p = 0.045 and 0.016, respectively). At the 3-month follow-up erythema intensity and melanin were higher in the PTB group than in PTT group (both p < 0.001). Eight patients (40% in the PTB group) reported grade 2 radiation dermatitis and 1 patient (5% in the PTB group) reported grade 3 radiation dermatitis. No grade 2 or higher radiation dermatitis was found in the PTT group. Ten patients (50%) in the PTB group and 3 patients (15%) in the PTT group reported severe erythema likely due to questionable clinical evaluation, but hyperpigmentation was rarely reported at the follow-up visits. Conclusion: The PTB group showed higher intensity of erythema at the end of RT than the PTT group and the increase in melanin lasted until the 3-month follow-up visits in the PTB group. Moreover, patients subjectively appealed more severe symptoms following PTB in PROs.
Incremental Value of Renal Dysfunction Addition to the CHA2DS2-Vasc Score for Mortality Prediction in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Castini Diego Carlo , Persampieri Simone , Sabatelli Ludovico , Valli Federica , Ferrante Giulia , Zambelli Daniel , Toriello Filippo , Provenzale Giovanni , Gentile Domitilla , Bursi Francesca , Centola Marco , Carugo Stefano
Published: May 2021

Introduction: This study analyzes the usefulness of the CHA2DS2-VASc score for mortality prediction in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) and evaluates if the addition of renal functional status could improve its predictive accuracy. Methods: CHA2DS2-VASc score was calculated by using both the original scoring system and adding renal functional status using 3 alternative renal dysfunction definitions (CHA2DS2-VASc-R1: eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 mq = 1 point; CHA2DS2-VASc-R2: eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 mq = 2 points; and CHA2DS2-VASc-R3: eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 mq = 1 point, <30 mL/min/1.73 mq = 2 points). Inhospital mortality (IHM) and post-discharge mortality (PDM) were recorded, and discrimination of the various risk models was evaluated. Finally, the net reclassification index (NRI) was calculated to compare the mortality risk classification of the modified risk models with that of the original score. Results: Nine hundred and eight ACS patients (median age 68 years, 30% female, 51% ST-elevation) composed the study population. Of the 871 patients discharged, 865 (99%) completed a 12-month follow-up. The IHM rate was 4.1%. The CHA2DS2-VASc score demonstrated a good discriminative performance for IHM (C-statistic 0.75). Although all the eGFR-modified risk models showed higher C-statistics than the original model, a statistically significant difference was observed only for CHA2DS2-VASc-R3. The PDM rate was 4.5%. The CHA2DS2-VASc C-statistic for PDM was 0.75, and all the modified risk models showed significantly higher C-statistics values than the original model. The NRI analysis showed similar results. Conclusions: CHA2DS2-VASc score demonstrated a good predictive accuracy for IHM and PDM in ACS patients. The addition of renal dysfunction to the original score has the potential to improve identification of patients at the risk of death.
Postsurgical Size-Changing Temporal Lobe Arachnoid Cysts in Patients with Trigonocephaly Who Underwent Reconstructive Surgery: A Two-Case Report
Authors: Baş Nuri Serdar , Baş Serap
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Trigonocephaly (TC), the tapering of the metopic suture toward the anterior, lateral inadequacy of supraorbital bar, hypoplasia of the ethmoid bone, and hypotelorism due to orbital medialization leads to a triangular shape in the head together with frontotemporal stenosis and widening of the biparietal diameter. Arachnoid cysts (ACs) are benign cysts, which are formed by cerebrospinal-fluid entrapment into the arachnoid membrane due to duplication or separation of the arachnoid membrane layers. ACs are typically located in the middle cranial fossa and Sylvian fissure region. They are mostly detected incidentally through neuroimaging. The coexistence of TC and AC is considerably rare; hence, its actual incidence is unknown. To our knowledge, the coexistence of nonsyndromic TC and AC has been revealed in only 2 publications in the literature. In this case study, 2 patients, one of whom were with unilateral and the other with bilateral temporally localized ACs, sizes of which increased following the reconstructive surgeries, and who underwent reconstructive surgery for TC, were presented. Case Report: Both of the 2 patients that we have presented in our study are 7 months old and male. Fronto-orbital advancement and calvarial remodeling operations were performed on both. ACs of the patients were not intervened. However, in the post-op follow-ups, the left temporal cyst of the 1st case and the right cyst of the 2nd case grew radiologically, and the left cyst became very small. Discussion/Conclusion: TC must be treated surgically. ACs may show changes in size secondary to the increase in intracranial volume following reconstructive surgery for TC. However, if it does not give rise to any complaints, it can be followed-up clinically and radiologically. Patients should be followed-up for many years, given that neurodevelopmental and behavioral problems may occur later in both pathologies.
Lactic Acidosis in a Congenital Bone Marrow Failure Syndrome
Authors: Mir Fatima Farid , Madasu Anjan , Humad Hani , Rana Asim Noor
Published: May 2021

Fifteen-month-old male child, known to have a congenital bone marrow failure syndrome, presented in a state of shock with severe lactic acidosis following a brief episode of vomiting. Hospital stay was complicated by recurrent bouts of metabolic acidosis and progressive hepatic failure. Blood mitochondrial DNA sequencing revealed a large heteroplasmic 4,977 bp mitochondrial deletion (approximately 40% of all mitochondrial copies) suggestive of Pearson marrow-pancreas syndrome. By virtue of natural disease course, within a month of admission child succumbed to end-stage liver failure with multi-organ failure and died.
Technical Innovations in Pneumology: E-Health, Screening, Diagnostics, and Therapy
Authors: Herkenrath Simon Dominik , Dreher Michael , Gompelmann Daniela , Held Matthias , Koczulla Andreas Rembert , Köhnlein Thomas , Rohde Gernot , Wälscher Julia , Watz Henrik , Randerath Winfried Johannes
Published: May 2021

At the 2020 “Luftschlösser” (castles in the air) conference, experts from a wide range of pneumological fields discussed technical innovations in pneumology, which can be seen in many different areas of the field, including e-health, screening, diagnostics, and therapy. They contribute to substantial advancements ranging from the innovative use of diagnostic tools to novel treatments for chronic lung diseases. Artificial intelligence enables broader screening, which can be expected to have beneficial effects on disease progression and overall prognosis. There is still a high demand for clinical trials to investigate the usefulness and risk-benefit ratio. Open questions remain especially about the quality and utility of medical apps in an inadequately regulated market. This article weighs the pros and cons of technical innovations in specific subspecialties of pneumology based on the lively exchange of ideas among various pneumological experts.
Ultrareines Citicolin in Kombination mit Homotaurin und Vitamin E bei Normaldruckglaukom: ein Fallbericht
Authors: Verdina Tommaso , Passarelli Nicola , Carlini Alessandra , Chemello Francesca , Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Cavallini Gian Maria
Published: May 2021

Das Normaldruckglaukom ist nach wie vor eine therapeutische Herausforderung für Ophthalmologen, da in Abwesenheit des sonst üblichen Haupt-Behandlungsziels, des erhöhten Augeninnendrucks, keine effektiven Therapien bekannt sind. Wir berichten über die Wirksamkeit von zwei neuroprotektiven Molekülen (ultrapures Citicolin plus Homotaurin) in Kombination mit einer topischen drucksenkenden Therapie zur Behandlung des NTG in einer langfristigen Nachbeobachtung (30 Monate). Eine 38-jährige Frau kaukasischen Ursprungs ohne signifikante medizinische Vorgeschichte und mit diagnostiziertem NTG zeigte nach umfassender, 30-monatiger Anwendung von oraler Nahrungsergänzung mit ultrareinem Citicolin 500 mg, Homotaurin 50 mg und Vitamin E einmal täglich sowie von topischer Glaukom-Medikation (Brimonidin + Brinzolamid als Tropfen zweimal täglich) signifikante Verbesserungen des Gesichtsfelds laut automatisierter 24–2-Untersuchung mit kontrollierter tonometrischer Messung, begleitet von einer Stabilisierung der retinalen Nervenfaserschicht und der Ganglionzellen laut OCT-Untersuchung sowie von der Zufriedenheit der Patientin. Diese Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass ultrareines Citicolin in Kombination mit Homotaurin und Vitamin E durch einen synergetischen neuroprotektiven Effekt einen vielversprechenden Ansatz für das NTG-Management darstellen könnte.
Motivos e sentimentos que conectam o uso de crack à tentativa de suicídio
Authors: Weiser Aline Voigt , Oliveira Michele Mandagará , Ramos Camila Irigonhé , Weiss Carin Vieira , Lemos Duilia Sedrês Carvalho , Silveira Karine Langmantel
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: conhecer os motivos e os sentimentos que influenciaram usuários de crack a tentar suicídio. Método: pesquisa qualitativa realizada em um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial Álcool e outras drogas. Participaram do estudo dez usuários. Realizaram-se entrevista semiestruturada e análise temática. Resultados: a vulnerabilidade social, o primeiro contato com a droga e o tempo de utilização associados ao uso abusivo foram fatores que influenciaram os sintomas depressivos e a falta de motivação para viver e que serviram de gatilho para a tentativa de suicídio. Conclusão: as razões eleitas pelos participantes para terminar com a sua vida expõem, aos profissionais de saúde, a necessidade de qualificar a escuta e o atendimento de forma a acolher as demandas individuais e sociais das pessoas que utilizam crack.
Formação e atitudes relacionadas às tentativas de suicídio entre profissionais de Estratégias de Saúde da Família
Authors: Almeida Aline Siqueira , Vedana Kelly Graziani Giachero
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: investigar, entre profissionais da Estratégia Saúde da Família, associação entre a formação e as atitudes relacionadas ao comportamento suicida. Método: estudo quantitativo desenvolvido com 65 profissionais de equipes de ESF de um município de Minas Gerais. Os dados foram coletados por autoaplicação de questionário sociodemográfico e do Questionário de Atitudes Frente ao Comportamento Suicida (QUACS). Utilizada estatística descritiva, testes de associação e correlação. Resultados: a maioria dos participantes declarouse sem treinamento sobre suicídio (89%) e negou ter lido material específico (54%). Treinamento sobre suicídio esteve associado à maior capacidade profissional autopercebida (p=0,017). Atitudes mais negativas estiveram associadas à menor percepção de capacidade profissional e a atitudes mais condenatórias. Profissionais que leram material específico sobre suicídio tiveram tanto maior capacidade profissional autopercebida (p=0,023) quanto atitudes menos negativas (p=0,042). Atitudes menos condenatórias foram encontradas em pessoas sem religião (p=0,000), que leram sobre o suicídio (p=0,042), e tiveram contato com colegas de profissão que tentaram suicídio (p=0,013). Conclusão: para que o potencial da ESF na detecção de riscos, prevenção e tratamento do suicídio se traduza em ações eficazes, é importante investir em recursos de formação aos profissionais de saúde que compõem tais serviços.
Aplicativos de celular na prevenção do comportamento suicida
Authors: Barbosa Sarah Soares , Rodrigues Jeferson , Guimarães Gustavo Ferreira , Lopes Sara Mendes Boeira
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: identificar aplicativos de celulares utilizados na prevenção e/ou apoio à pessoa com comportamento suicida publicados em produções científicas internacionais e suas funcionalidades. Método: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura que seguiu o método de Ganong. Foi realizada uma adaptação de método em que foram incluídos critérios de inclusão e exclusão para os aplicativos de celular encontrados nas produções. Foram selecionados os aplicativos e os mesmos foram analisados individualmente para serem mapeadas as suas funcionalidades. Resultados: foram estudados sete aplicativos encontrados a partir da revisão de literatura. Foram mapeadas 71 funcionalidades. Pode-se avaliar que ainda não existem métodos específicos e protocolos para o desenvolvimento de aplicativos para a prevenção do comportamento suicida. Conclusão: foi possível conhecer quais os aplicativos existentes que contribuem na prevenção do comportamento suicida, bem como suas principais funcionalidades. Vê-se a necessidade de que estudos sejam feitos para avaliar o impacto desses aplicativos na prevenção do comportamento suicida, possibilitando o desenvolvimento de pesquisas e dispositivos que previnam o comportamento suicida no Brasil.
Suicídio e depressão na população LGBT: postagens publicadas em blogs pessoais
Authors: Oliveira Elias Teixeira de , Vedana Kelly Graziani Giacchero
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: o objetivo do estudo foi analisar postagens sobre suicídio, depressão e população LGBT em blogs da plataforma Tumblr®. Método: estudo com abordagem qualitativa, que submeteu à análise temática postagens identificadas a partir da busca de palavras chave relacionadas ao comportamento suicida e população LGBT na plataforma TUMBLR. Resultados: foram identificados 14 blogs, com 916 postagens. Os principais temas abordados estiveram relacionados a sofrimento intenso, comportamentos autodestrutivos, vulnerabilidade emocional, rejeição e autodepreciação. Conclusão: esses temas relevam importantes necessidades a serem investigadas e abordadas em intervenções para a promoção da saúde mental da comunidade LGBT no âmbito individual e coletivo.
Memória é movimento
Authors: Nin Alice
Published: May 2021

O ensaio fotográfico Memória é movimento é sobre o encontro com fotografias de arquivo pessoal dos moradores do Azul, no Jacarezinho, Rio de Janeiro (RJ), a partir da realização coletiva da exposição Outro Olhar pelos coletivos Cafuné na Laje e Norte Comum. Partindo do processo de pesquisa da exposição, as fotografias se debruçam sobre a importância de movimentar a memória visual de arquivos pessoais, promovendo o encontro e a partilha dessas imagens-portais como forma de viver a fotografia, experimentando-as coletivamente, fortalecendo os laços comunitários e a importância histórica do lugar a partir de dentro, de como ele próprio se significa visualmente. Assim reconhecendo e difundindo a relevância desses arquivos como um território necessário para o debate contemporâneo acerca das imagens fotográficas e sua participação na construção da memória coletiva de um lugar.
Objet trouvé: etnografia de rua – Paris
Authors: Tacca Fernando de
Published: May 2021

Esse pequeno ensaio faz parte de uma proposta mais ampla sobre a cidade de Paris, e teve seu início em 2012, inspirado pela relação entre o livro “Pasages”, de Walter Benjamin e as fotografias de Eugéne Atget. Naquele momento, durante o período de um mês, foram produzidas imagens de ruas, vitrines, passagens, e de pequenos cantos, através de três tipos de câmeras, sendo uma delas analógica. Baseadas e inspiradas nos olhares técnicos de Atget, mas também produzidas e trabalhadas a partir de uma câmera cega (GoPRO) e de uma câmera Lomo olho de peixe, foram criadas sobreposições de imagens no próprio negativo para que se evidenciasse a decomposição de espaços monumentais através das imagens. 

Como continuação da proposta, em um período mais amplo, entre março de 2016 e fevereiro de 2017, a partir do deambular e do flanar fotográfico pelas ruas de Paris, situações fortuitas e encontros casuais com objetos imprevistos, indicativa dos diálogos que propõe a cidade, retomaram o pensamento de Jean Baudrillard, e fizeram latente e constante a busca por uma existência ou uma conversa entre os objetos e seu entorno. Objetos banais, esquecidos, descartados ou interferidos, que ao olhar fotográfico criam pulsões, transformando o fotógrafo em um coletor, em seu sentido mais antropológico.
Temporal Incidence and Predictors of High‐Grade Atrioventricular Block After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: El‐Sabawi Bassim , Welle Garrett A. , Cha Yong‐Mei , Espinosa Raúl E. , Gulati Rajiv , Sandhu Gurpreet S. , Greason Kevin L. , Crestanello Juan A. , Friedman Paul A. , Munger Thomas M. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Eleid Mackram F.
Published: May 2021

Background

The temporal incidence of high‐grade atrioventricular block (HAVB) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is uncertain. As a result, periprocedural monitoring and pacing strategies remain controversial. This study aimed to describe the temporal incidence of initial episode of HAVB stratified by pre‐ and post‐TAVR conduction and identify predictors of delayed events.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients undergoing TAVR at a single center between February 2012 and June 2019 were retrospectively assessed for HAVB within 30 days. Patients with prior aortic valve replacement, permanent pacemaker (PPM), or conversion to surgical replacement were excluded. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess predictors of delayed HAVB (initial event >24 hours post‐TAVR). A total of 953 patients were included in this study. HAVB occurred in 153 (16.1%). After exclusion of those with prophylactic PPM placed post‐TAVR, the incidence of delayed HAVB was 33/882 (3.7%). Variables independently associated with delayed HAVB included baseline first‐degree atrioventricular block or right bundle‐branch block, self‐expanding valve, and new left bundle‐branch block. Forty patients had intraprocedural transient HAVB, including 16 who developed HAVB recurrence and 6 who had PPM implantation without recurrence. PPM was placed for HAVB in 130 (13.6%) (self‐expanding valve, 23.7% versus balloon‐expandable valve, 11.9%;
P
<0.001). Eight (0.8%) patients died by 30 days, including 1 unexplained without PPM present.

Conclusions

Delayed HAVB occurs with higher frequency in patients with baseline first‐degree atrioventricular block or right bundle‐branch block, new left bundle‐branch block, and self‐expanding valve. These findings provide insight into optimal monitoring and pacing strategies based on periprocedural ECG findings.
Effects of Probiotic Fermented Kitchen Waste on the Growth and Propagation of RotiferBrachionus calyciflorus
Authors: Li Yiyong , Luo Wanyi , Wang Baoe , Lin Tianhao , Li Chuangxiong , Liu Hui , Huang Yanhua , Lin Chong , Tong Yinglin , Lei Zexiang
Published: May 2021

Kitchen waste containing a large number of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and minerals can be used as fermentation substrates for producing probiotics, and then can be taken as microbial feed to cultivate rotifer. This approach not only emphasizes resource utilization of kitchen waste but also improves the growth and propagation of rotifer. In this study, kitchen wastewater and solid waste were used as fermentation substrates, respectively, while yeast, lactic acid bacteria, compound bacteria (yeast + lactic acid bacteria), and effective microorganisms (EM) bacteria were inoculated to harvest the microbial feed for the cultivation of rotifer. The population density, eggholding rate, body length, and the egg volume of rotifer were determined. These results indicate that the growth and propagation of rotifer were effectively improved by using kitchen wastewater or solid waste as fermentation substrates. When compared with the direct usage of kitchen waste for rotifer cultivation, the effect of kitchen waste fermented by probiotics on rotifer was more obvious, such as in the population density, egg-holding rate, body length, and egg volume, in the following sequence EM bacterial group > yeast group > compound bacterial group > lactic acid bacterial group ^ control group. Hence, EM bacteria can be considered as the best one for kitchen waste fermentation to prepare microbial feed for rotifer. It is thus feasible to use probiotic fermented kitchen waste to cultivate rotifer.
Application of Shape Context and Fourier Descriptor to Shape Description in Preparation of Nanowood Powder
Authors: Zhao Lei , Wang Jianhua
Published: May 2021

The nanowood powder made from varying wood species has different properties. Therefore, while preparing nanowood powder, it is critical for us to accurately identify the wood species. By adopting the method of analyzing the wood species from the microstructure of the plate cell, we
are able to ensure a high level of accuracy of the recognition. It is one of the commonly used parameters to identify sheet materials for further exploration of the microscopic cell shape. While applying the method of improved Fourier descriptor and the method of shape context, we have carried
out the mathematical analysis of common soft wood plank cells in 5 slice images. In addition, we have conducted studies on the single cell graphics and quadrilateral, pentagon, round, oval similarity analysis respectively, and explored the use of benchmark cell model, thus providing statistical
support for the subsequent material identification. Experiments have shown that this method is both efficient and robust in identifying sheet materials.
Characteristics of Hydrochars Derived from Glucose, Protein, and Cellulose by Hydrothermal Carbonization Treatment
Authors: Zhu Peiru , Liu Jiayang , Ma Jun , Li Lian , Zhang Xueying
Published: May 2021

With hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) treatment, wet biomass can be rapidly converted into hydrochar product with high-carbon content and calorific value. The current study employed glucose, protein, and cellulose as raw materials to investigate the effects of reaction temperature and
residence time on characteristics of hydrochars. Results showed that the optimal reaction temperatures for glucose, protein, and cellulose were 240 °C, 190 °C and 220 °C, respectively. The optimal residence times were 4 h, 3 h and 4 h respectively, under which carbon microspheres
with smooth surface and uniform particle size tended to form. The increased temperature promoted decomposition of bio-oil in the hydrothermal system and improved the quality of carbon microspheres, but much higher temperature deformed the surface of the carbon microspheres. Appropriate residence
time ensured full growth of carbon microspheres but excessive residence time made the formed carbon microspheres to crosslink with each other, causing roughness to the surface. In addition, comparison of the specific surface area showed that the cellulose carbon microspheres exhibited an absolute
advantage.
Establishment of Raman Fingerprints and Localization of Main Components of Radix Angelicas sinensis from Different Origins
Authors: Yan Yuli , Duan Minghua , Liu Lei , Wu Yin
Published: May 2021

In this paper, confocal micro-Raman spectrum (CMR) was used to investigate the distribution of main components (ferulic acid and nicotinic acid) in Radix Angelicae sinensis (RAS). The ferulic acid and nicotinic acid were scanned to obtain their Raman spectra of single component;
the RAS from different origins were scanned to obtain the Raman spectrum of RAS, and the Raman spectrum was compared with single component. The Raman spectrum of a single component was introduced into the map review to localize ferulic acid and nicotinic acid in RAS. In the results, the RAS
from different origins showed strong similarity, with obvious characteristic peaks at 120 cm–1 140 cm–1210 cm–1,480 cm–1 and 1050 cm–1. The characteristic peaks of ferulic acid are mainly concentrated in the
spectrum range of 100-1100 cm1 with obvious characteristic peaks around 160 cm150 cm–1 and 1800 cm–1 while the peaks of nicotinic acid mainly concentrated in the spectrum range of 100-1100 cm–1, with obvious characteristic
peaks around 120 cm–1, 140 cm–1,810 cm–1and 1050 cm–1 The red and the green color represent the locations of ferulic acid and nicotinic acid, respectively. In conclusion, CMR can be used to establish the Raman fingerprint
library of RAS for a quick and accurate identify, and locate the known active components.
Applied Research on Prediction Methods of Properties of Particleboard Based on Data-Driven Methods
Authors: Yang Cuiping , Lai Weiwen , Su Jilai , He Wei , Gao Zhenhua
Published: May 2021

As a kind of wood-based panel, particleboard is widely used in production and daily life. The physical and mechanical properties (PMPs) of particleboard play a decisive role in its practical application. At present, destructive methods are primarily used to measure the actual properties of particleboard on the production line, which is a waste of resources and time-consuming method. In order to solve these problems, this paper uses several data-driven methods to predict the PMPs of particleboard. Firstly, the data set is constructed based on the parameters of particleboard production process. Secondly, seven commonly used data-driven methods are used to build models to predict the PMPs. Finally, three different assessment indexes are used to determine the most suitable method for property prediction. The results showed that the random forest method is better for predicting the PMPs of particleboard.
50 Grades of Shade
Authors: Middel Ariane , AlKhaled Saud , Schneider Florian A. , Hagen Bjoern , Coseo Paul
Published: May 2021

Cities increasingly recognize the importance of shade to reduce heat stress and adopt urban forestry plans with ambitious canopy goals. Yet, the implementation of tree and shade plans often faces maintenance, water use, and infrastructure challenges. Understanding the performance of natural and nonnatural shade is critical to support active shade management in the built environment. We conducted hourly transects in Tempe, Arizona, with the mobile human-biometeorological station MaRTy on hot summer days to quantify the efficacy of various shade types. We sampled sun-exposed reference locations and shade types grouped by urban form, lightweight/engineered shade, and tree species over multiple ground surfaces. We investigated shade performance during the day, at peak incoming solar, at peak air temperature, and after sunset using three thermal metrics: the difference between a shaded and sun-exposed location in air temperature (∆Ta), surface temperature (∆Ts), and mean radiant temperature (∆TMRT). Air temperature did not vary significantly between shade groups, but ∆TMRT spanned a 50°C range across observations. At daytime, shade from urban form most effectively reduced Ts and TMRT, followed by trees and lightweight structures. Shade from urban form performed differently with changing orientation. Tree shade performance varied widely; native and palm trees were least effective, while nonnative trees were most effective. All shade types exhibited heat retention (positive ∆TMRT) after sunset. Based on the observations, we developed characteristic shade performance curves that will inform the City of Tempe’s design guidelines toward using “the right shade in the right place” and form the basis for the development of microclimate zones (MCSz).
The Influence of Ground-Relative Flow and Friction on Near-Surface Storm-Relative Helicity
Authors: Flournoy Matthew D. , Rasmussen Erik N.
Published: May 2021

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of near-ground storm-relative helicity (SRH) in supercell and tornado processes and how surface friction can play a role. In this study, we use an analytical approach to examine how uniform changes to the ground-relative wind profile above the near-ground layer influence SRH within the near-ground layer. We show how the ground-relative influence of surface friction alters the near-ground shear profile. For idealized semicircular and straight shear profiles, increasing preexisting ground-relative flow above the near-ground layer yields increasing SRH. The magnitude of the SRH increase is sensitive to storm motion, with more deviant motion yielding greater SRH increases given the same increase in ground-relative flow. Supercells may be more susceptible to storm-induced SRH enhancements given their deviant motion and ability to increase ground-relative flow in the background environment.
Impact of Reduced Arctic Sea Ice on Northern Hemisphere Climate and Weather in Autumn and Winter
Authors: Chripko Svenya , Msadek Rym , Sanchez-Gomez Emilia , Terray Laurent , Bessières Laurent , Moine Marie-Pierre
Published: May 2021

The Northern Hemisphere transient atmospheric response to Arctic sea decline is investigated in autumn and winter, using sensitivity experiments performed with the CNRMCM6-1 high-top climate model. Arctic sea ice albedo is reduced to the ocean value, yielding ice-free conditions during summer and a more moderate sea ice reduction during the following months. A strong ampli_cation of temperatures over the Arctic is induced by sea ice loss, with values reaching up to 25°C near the surface in autumn. Signi_cant surface temperature anomalies are also found over the mid-latitudes, with a warming reaching 1°C over North America and Europe, and a cooling reaching 1°C over central Asia. Using a dynamical adjustment method based on a regional reconstruction of circulation analogs, we show that the warming over North America and Europe can be explained both by changes in the atmospheric circulation and by the advection of warmer oceanic air by the climatological ow. In contrast, we demonstrate that the sea-ice induced cooling over central Asia is solely due to dynamical changes, involving an intensi_cation of the Siberian High and a cyclonic anomaly over the Sea of Okhotsk. In the troposphere, the abrupt Arctic sea ice decline favours a narrowing of the subtropical jet stream and a slight weakening of the lower part of the polar vortex that is explained by a weak enhancement of upward wave activity toward the stratosphere. We further show that reduced Arctic sea ice in our experiments is mainly associated with less severe cold extremes in the mid-latitudes.
Simulating observed cloud transitions in the northeast Pacific during CSET
Authors: Blossey Peter N. , Bretherton Christopher S. , Mohrmann Johannes
Published: May 2021

The goal of this study is to challenge a large eddy simulation model with a range of observations from a modern field campaign and to develop case studies useful to other modelers. The 2015 Cloud System Evolution in the Trades (CSET) field campaign provided a wealth of in situ and remote sensing observations of subtropical cloud transitions in the summertime Northeast Pacific. Two Lagrangian case studies based on these observations are used to validate the thermodynamic, radiative and microphysical properties of large eddy simulations (LES) of the stratocumulus to cumulus transition. The two cases contrast a relatively fast cloud transition in a clean, initially well-mixed boundary layer vs. a slower transition in an initially decoupled boundary layer with higher aerosol concentrations and stronger mean subsidence. For each case, simulations of two neighboring trajectories sample mesoscale variability and the coherence of the transition in adjacent air masses. In both cases, LES broadly reproduce satellite and aircraft observations of the transition. Simulations of the first case match observations more closely than for the second case, where simulations underestimate cloud cover early in the simulations and overestimate cloud top height later. For the first case, simulated cloud fraction and liquid water path increase if a larger cloud droplet number concentration is prescribed. In the second case, precipitation onset and inversion cloud breakup occurs earlier when the LES domain is chosen large enough to support strong mesoscale organization.
Characteristics of Long-Duration Heavy Precipitation Events along the West Coast of the United States
Authors: Moore Benjamin J. , White Allen B. , Gottas Daniel J.
Published: May 2021

Prolonged periods (e.g., several days or more) of heavy precipitation can result in sustained high-impact flooding. Herein, an investigation of long-duration heavy precipitation events (HPEs), defined as periods comprising ≥3 days with precipitation exceeding the climatological 95th percentile, is conducted for 1979–2019 for the U.S. West Coast, specifically Northern California. An objective flow-based categorization method is applied to identify principal large-scale flow patterns for the events. Four categories are identified and examined through composite analyses and case studies. Two of the categories are characterized by a strong zonal jet stream over the eastern North Pacific, while the other two are characterized by atmospheric blocking over the central North Pacific and the Bering Sea–Alaska region, respectively. The composites and case studies demonstrate that the flow patterns for the HPEs tend to remain in place for several days, maintaining strong baroclinicity and promoting occurrences of multiple cyclones in rapid succession near the West Coast. The successive cyclones result in persistent water vapor flux and forcing for ascent over Northern California, sustaining heavy precipitation. For the zonal jet patterns, cyclones affecting the West Coast tend to occur in the poleward jet exit region in association with cyclonic Rossby wave breaking. For the blocking patterns, cyclones tend to occur in association with anticyclonic Rossby wave breaking on the downstream flank of the block. For Bering Sea–Alaska blocking cases, cyclones can move into this region in conjunction with cyclonically breaking waves that extend into the eastern North Pacific from the upstream flank of the block.
The cytotoxic conjugate of highly internalizing tetravalent antibody for targeting FGFR1-overproducing cancer cells
Authors: Poźniak Marta , Porębska Natalia , Krzyścik Mateusz Adam , Sokołowska-Wędzina Aleksandra , Jastrzębski Kamil , Sochacka Martyna , Szymczyk Jakub , Zakrzewska Małgorzata , Otlewski Jacek , Opaliński Łukasz
Published: May 2021

Background

Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) represent one of the most promising approaches in the current immuno-oncology research. The precise delivery of cytotoxic drugs to the cancer cells using ADCs specific for tumor-associated antigens enables sparing the healthy cells and thereby reduces unwanted side effects. Overexpression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) has been demonstrated in numerous tumors and thereby constitutes a convenient molecular target for selective cancer treatment. We have recently engineered tetravalent anti-FGFR1 antibody, T-Fc, and have demonstrated that it displays extremely efficient internalization into FGFR1 producing cells, a feature highly desirable in the ADC approach. We have revealed that T-Fc mediates clustering of FGFR1, largely enhancing the uptake of FGFR1-T-Fc complexes by induction of clathrin-independent endocytic routes. The aim of this study was to obtain highly internalizing cytotoxic conjugate of the T-Fc for specific delivery of drugs into FGFR1-positive cancer cells.

Methods

Conjugation of the T-Fc to a cytotoxic payload, vcMMAE, was carried out via maleimide chemistry, yielding the T-Fc-vcMMAE. The specific binding of the T-Fc-vcMMAE conjugate to FGFR1 was confirmed in vitro with BLI technique. Confocal microscopy and flow cytometry were applied to determine FGFR1-dependence of the T-Fc-vcMMAE internalization. Western blot analyses of FGFR1-dependent signaling were conducted to assess the impact of the T-Fc-vcMMAE on FGFR1 activation and initiation of downstream signaling cascades. Finally, using FGFR1-negative and FGFR1-possitive cell lines, the cytotoxic potential of the T-Fc-vcMMAE was evaluated.

Results

We have performed the efficient conjugation of the tetravalent engineered antibody with a cytotoxic drug and generated FGFR1-specific ADC molecule, T-Fc-vcMMAE. We have demonstrated that T-Fc-vcMMAE conjugate exhibits high selectivity and affinity for FGFR1, similarly to T-Fc. Furthermore, we have shown that T-Fc constitutes an effective drug delivery vehicle as T-Fc-vcMMAE was efficiently and selectively internalized by FGFR1-producing cells leading to their death. Interestingly, we show that the efficiency of the uptake of T-Fc-vcMMAE corresponds well with the cytotoxicity of the conjugate, but doesn’t correlate with the FGFR1expression level.

Conclusion

Our results show that T-Fc-vcMMAE fulfills the key criteria for the successful cytotoxic drug carrier in a targeted approach against FGFR1-positive cancer cells. Furthermore, our data implicate that not solely expression level of the receptor, but rather its cellular trafficking should be taken into account for selection of suitable molecular targets and cancer models for successful ADC approach.
A spatial analysis of the epidemiology of HIV-infected students in Zhejiang province, China
Authors: Chen Wanjun , Yang Jiezhe , Jiang Jun , He Lin , Xu Yun , Zheng Jinlei , Jiang Jianmin , Pan Xiaohong
Published: May 2021

Background

The upsurge in HIV infections among students is a matter of particular concern. However, few studies have explored the epidemiological characteristics including the risky sexual networking of HIV-infected students in Zhejiang province, China.

Methods

Using the provincial surveillance data of HIV-infected students, we conducted a retrospective epidemiology study to describe the epidemiological characteristics of 628 newly diagnosed cases from 2011 to 2016 and detailed information of 124 cases from 2015 to 2016. Spatial analyses were conducted using ArcGIS software, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software.

Results

A total of 628 cases of HIV/AIDS were diagnosed among students in Zhejiang Province, China between 2011 and 2016. The cases showed an overall increasing trend over time, while the proportions of students with HIV disease status, cases diagnosed by HIV voluntary counseling and testing (VCT), and cases of homosexual transmission remained stable over time. Significant spatial heterogeneity in the cases was seen at the county level. Detailed data on 124 HIV-positive individuals collected from the local Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from 2015 and 2016, showed that the majority of them (85.5%,) engaged in homosexual behavior, and 93.4% had sex with casual partners. These partners included not only social members, but also other students. Online dating applications represented the most common means of seeking and communicating with homosexual partners. The level of awareness regarding the risk of HIV infection, and the amount coverage of face-to-face education towards students were both low.

Conclusions

HIV infections among students were characterized by increasing trend and spatial clustering in Zhejiang Province between 2011 and 2016, with homosexual sexual activity being the main mode of infection. Interventions are urgently required to prevent HIV infection in this population by increasing awareness of the disease. HIV testing programs and information regarding disease prevention specifically through online dating applications are needed.
Checkpoint inhibition in combination with an immunoboost of external beam radiotherapy in solid tumors (CHEERS): study protocol for a phase 2, open-label, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Spaas Mathieu , Sundahl Nora , Hulstaert Eva , Kruse Vibeke , Rottey Sylvie , De Maeseneer Daan , Surmont Veerle , Meireson Annabel , Brochez Lieve , Reynders Dries , Goetghebeur Els , Van den Begin Robbe , Van Gestel Dirk , Renard Vincent , Dirix Piet , Mestdagh Pieter , Ost Piet
Published: May 2021

Background

While the introduction of checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) as standard of care treatment for various tumor types has led to considerable improvements in clinical outcome, the majority of patients still fail to respond. Preclinical data suggest that stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) could work synergistically with CPIs by acting as an in situ cancer vaccine, thus potentially increasing response rates and prolonging disease control. Though SBRT administered concurrently with CPIs has been shown to be safe, evidence of its efficacy from large randomized trials is still lacking. The aim of this multicenter randomized phase II trial is to assess whether SBRT administered concurrently with CPIs could prolong progression-free survival as compared to standard of care in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Methods/design

Ninety-eight patients with locally advanced or metastatic disease will be randomized in a 1:1 fashion to receive CPI treatment combined with SBRT (Arm A) or CPI monotherapy (Arm B). Randomization will be stratified according to tumor histology (melanoma, renal, urothelial, head and neck squamous cell or non-small cell lung carcinoma) and disease burden (≤ or > 3 cancer lesions). The recommended SBRT dose is 24Gy in 3 fractions, which will be administered to a maximum of 3 lesions and is to be completed prior to the second or third CPI cycle (depending on CPI treatment schedule). The study’s primary endpoint is progression-free survival as per iRECIST. Secondary endpoints include overall survival, objective response, local control, quality of life and toxicity. Translational analyses will be performed using blood, fecal and tissue samples. Discussion: The CHEERS trial will provide further insights into the clinical and immunological impact of SBRT when combined with CPIs in patients with advanced solid tumors. Furthermore, study results will inform the design of future immuno-radiotherapy trials.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03511391. Registered 17 April 2018.
Thoracic radiotherapy and concurrent almonertinib for unresectable stage III EGFR-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer: a phase 2 study
Authors: ZHU Lucheng , Zou Changlin , Zhang Zhanchun , Wang Jianfang , Yang Li , Rao Chuangzhou , Yang Zhiping , Liang Jiafeng , Xia Bing , Shenglin M. A.
Published: May 2021

Background

Concurrent chemo-radiotherapy remains the standard treatment in unresectable stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Several studies have shown a potential value of concurrent epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) with thoracic radiotherapy in EGFR-mutated population, but a high risk of radiation pneumonitis raised a major concern. This study intends to explore the safety and efficacy of concurrent almonertinib, a new third-generation EGFR-TKI, with radiotherapy in locally advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients.

Methods

Locally advanced NSCLC patients harboring sensitive EGFR mutation will be included in this study. A radiotherapy plan will be made for each patient before treatment, and the lung V20 will be calculated. Patients with lung V20 ≥ 28% were enrolled in induction group (arm A), which almonertinib was given for 2 months followed by concurrent radiotherapy; patients with lung V20 < 28% were enrolled in concurrent group (arm B), which almonertinib was given concurrent with thoracic radiotherapy. The primary endpoint is the incidence of grade ≥ 3 radiation pneumonitis within 6 months post-radiotherapy, and the secondary endpoints are local control rate, progression-free survival, and overall survival.

Discussion

The safety and efficacy of third-generation EGFR-TKI concurrent with thoracic radiotherapy in locally advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC is still unknown. We propose to conduct this phase 2 study evaluating the safety especially the radiation pneumonitis within 6 months post-radiotherapy. This trial protocol has been approved by the Ethics committee of Hangzhou cancer hospital. The ethics number is HZCH-2020-030.

Trial registration

clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04636593. Registered 19 November 2020 - Retrospectively registered
Different diagnostic performance of plasma fibrinogen and D-dimer in periprosthetic joint infection: a propensity score matched study
Authors: Chen Xi , Qian Wenwei , Weng Xisheng , Lin Jin , Jin Jin , Wang Yiou , Zhu Shibai
Published: May 2021

Background

Fibrinogen (Fbg) and D-dimer have been used as biomarkers for the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). However, previous research has reported conflicting results on the diagnostic value of D-dimer in comparison to Fbg, C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

Aim

This study aimed to: (1) determine the optimal threshold of plasma Fbg and D-dimer in the diagnosis of PJI and compare their diagnostic value to that of CRP and ESR; and (2) investigate whether Fbg and D-dimer perform differently than CRP and ESR as diagnostic indicators for different types of PJI.

Methods

A total of 115 revision cases after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were identified. Based on demographic characteristics, 25 culture-positive cases were matched to 50 culture-negative cases using propensity score matching. Sensitivity, specificity, receiver operating characteristics (ROC), negative predictive value (NPV), and positive predictive value (PPV) were calculated and compared.

Results

The optimal thresholds were 2.72 mg/L for D-dimer, 3.655 g/L for Fbg, 12.64 mg/L for CRP, and 27 mm/h for ESR. Levels of plasma Fbg, D-dimer, CRP, and ESR were significantly higher in the culture-positive group than the culture-negative group. Fbg, D-dimer, CRP, and ESR showed sensitivity of 0.92, 0.56, 0.92, and 0.88, respectively, and showed specificity of 0.84, 0.96, 0.94, and 0.80, respectively. The ROC curve showed that CRP has the highest area under the curve (AUC) (0.94), followed by Fbg (0.90), ESR (0.87), and D-dimer (0.81).

Conclusions

Plasma Fbg exhibited a similar diagnostic performance compared to CRP and ESR in predicting culture-positive results in PJI. Plasma D-dimer showed high specificity but low sensitivity. In our study, Fbg and D-dimer did not show better diagnostic performance with different pathogens and different types of PJI. Further studies are required to investigate the difference between serum D-dimer and plasma D-dimer in the arthroplasty population.