bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A single‐institution retrospective study of causes of prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time in the outpatient setting
Authors: Hazim Antonious Z. , Ruan Gordon J. , Khodadadi Ryan B. , Slusser Joshua P. , Marshall Ariela L. , Pruthi Rajiv K.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

An algorithmic approach, termed the prolonged clot time profile (PROCT), consisting of initial screening with prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), reflexive mixing studies if indicated, and follow‐up assays depending on initial testing results, offers an efficient approach to delineate the etiology of a prolonged PT/aPTT. Herein, we present the outcomes of the PROCT in the outpatient setting.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we reviewed medical records of consecutive outpatients who had prolonged PT and/or aPTT noted in the routine coagulation laboratory and who had PROCT ordered in our institutional Special Coagulation Laboratory between 2010 and 2017.

Results

One hundred and six patients, median age 55 years (IQR 30‐67), met our study criteria. Twenty‐nine patients had normal PT/aPTT, while 77 had persistent abnormalities and underwent reflexive testing. A prolonged PT, aPTT, or PT and aPTT was noted in 27 (35%), 27 (35%), and 23 (30%) respectively. Forty‐nine (64%) had an acquired condition, 17 (22%) had a congenital condition, 7 (9%) had unclear etiology, and 4 (5%) were the result of laboratory artifact. The most common known cause of an isolated prolonged PT in our study was vitamin K deficiency in 8 (10%), the most common cause of an isolated prolonged aPTT was lupus anticoagulant in 4 (5%), and the most common cause of prolonged PT and aPTT was liver disease in 11 (14%).

Conclusion

Prolonged PT/aPTT have a wide range of causes, including artifactual prolongation or abnormalities in secondary hemostasis due to both inherited and acquired conditions.
Diagnosis and treatment of the invasive extension of bacteria (cellulitis) from chronic wounds utilising point‐of‐care fluorescence imaging
Authors: Andersen Charles A. , McLeod Katherine , Steffan Rowena
Published: October 2021

Early diagnosis of wound‐related cellulitis is challenging as many classical signs and symptoms of infection (erythema, pain, tenderness, or fever) may be absent. In addition, other conditions (ie, chronic stasis dermatitis) may present with similar clinical findings. Point‐of‐care fluorescence imaging detects elevated bacterial burden in and around wounds with high sensitivity. This prospective observational study examined the impact of incorporating fluorescence imaging into standard care for diagnosis and management of wound‐related cellulitis. Two hundred thirty‐six patients visiting an outpatient wound care centre between January 2020 and April 2021 were included in this study. Patients underwent routine fluorescence scans for bacteria (range: 1‐48 scans/patient). Wound‐related cellulitis was diagnosed in 6.4% (15/236) of patients. In these patients, fluorescence scans showed an irregular pattern of red (bacterial) fluorescence extending beyond the wound bed and periwound that could not be removed through cleansing or debridement, indicating the invasive extension of bacteria (wound‐related cellulitis). Point‐of‐care identification facilitated rapid initiation of treatments (source control and antibiotics, when warranted) that resolved the fluorescence. No patients had worsening of cellulitis requiring intravenous antibiotics and/or hospitalisation. These findings demonstrate the utility of point‐of‐care fluorescence imaging for efficient detection and proactive, targeted management of wound‐related cellulitis.
Effect of A‐site atom on static corrosion behavior and irradiation damage of Ti2SC phases
Authors: Chen Ke , Wang Xudong , Zhang Jianning , Ding Haoming , Li Youbing , Song Yujie , Ge Fangfang , Zhou Xiaobing , Du Shiyu , Huang Qing
Published: October 2021

MAX phases are a large family of damage‐tolerant structural materials for the nuclear energy industry. The anti‐corrosive property to the tritium fluoride (TF) produced by the neutron irradiation of FLiBe is an issue for the MAX phases applied to the molten salt reactors (MSRs). Herein, the Ti2SC phase was used for the first time to evaluate the corrosion resistance to the concentrated hydrofluoric acid as the simulated service condition. The comprehensive characterizations including weight‐loss curves, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy were employed to analyze the corrosion behavior and mechanism of Ti2SC in comparison with Ti3AlC2 and Ti3SiC2. The good intrinsic anti‐corrosive property of Ti2SC was originated from the strong Ti‐S bond. Considering the acceptable preliminary performance at low displacement per atom (dpa), the Ti2SC probably has a potential to be used as the structural material in the MSRs.
Influence of hypertension classification on hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage location
Authors: Shen Jun , Guo FengBao , Yang Peng , Xu Feng
Published: October 2021

The authors sought to explore whether hypertension classification was risk factor for lobar and non‐lobar hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH) and the prognosis in patients with hematoma. This retrospective cohort study was conducted on HICH patients admitted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. Observations with first‐ever intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) were recruited. The authors divided the brain image into three groups according to the location of ICH to predict whether there were significant differences between lobar and non‐lobar ICH. A Mann‐Whitney U test was used and this retrospective trial also compared the operation and mortality rates. Our cohort included 209 patients (73.7% male; median age:60.5±16.7). The overall incidence of lobar HICH was less than non‐lobar HICH (24.4% vs. 68.4%), 7.2% cases of mixed HICH was included in this analysis. In a Mann‐Whitney U test analyze, it indicated that there were significant differences in hypertension classification between lobar and non‐lobar HICH (Z = ‐3.3, p<.05). And the percentage of hematoma in lobar areas with relatively slightly high blood pressure (BP) (high normal and grade 1 hypertension) accounts for 52.9% versus 30.1% in non‐lobar areas. The increasing trends of the prevalent rate of lobar ICH with BP rising were not remarkable. The non‐lobar HICH showed a sharper increase in the condition of grade 3 hypertension compared with lobar HICH. During the period of research, the fatality of lobar hemorrhage was 2.9% versus 7.7% (non‐lobar). Besides, the fatality incidence of HICH with relatively slightly high BP (high normal and grade 1 hypertension) was lower than poorly controlled hypertensive patients (grade 2 and grade 3 hypertension). (8.0% vs. 15.7%). The increase of hypertension classification will aggravate the occurrence of non‐lobar ICH and positively corrected with BP, but not in lobar areas. It is essential to understand the distinction influence of hypertension classification between lobar and non‐lobar ICH.
Celecoxib reduces hepatic vascular resistance in portal hypertension by amelioration of endothelial oxidative stress
Authors: Tai Yang , Zhao Chong , Zhang Linhao , Tang Shihang , Jia Xintong , Tong Huan , Liu Rui , Tang Chengwei , Gao Jinhang
Published: October 2021

The balance between endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) activation and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is very important for NO homeostasis in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). Overexpression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), a major intravascular source of ROS production, has been observed in LSECs of cirrhotic liver. However, the links between low NO bioavailability and COX‐2 overexpression in LSECs are unknown. This study has confirmed the link between low NO bioavailability and COX‐2 overexpression by COX‐2‐dependent PGE2‐EP2‐ERK1/2‐NOX1/NOX4 signalling pathway in LSECs in vivo and in vitro. In addition, the regulation of COX‐2‐independent LKB1‐AMPK‐NRF2‐HO‐1 signalling pathway on NO homeostasis in LSECs was also elucidated. The combinative effects of celecoxib on diminishment of ROS via COX‐2‐dependent and COX‐2‐independent signalling pathways greatly decreased NO scavenging. As a result, LSECs capillarisation was reduced, and endothelial dysfunction was corrected. Furthermore, portal hypertension of cirrhotic liver was ameliorated with substantial decreasing hepatic vascular resistance and great increase of portal blood flow. With the advance understanding of the mechanisms of LSECs protection, celecoxib may serve as a potential therapeutic candidate for patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension.
Structure, rheology, and tribology of date fruit paste procured from different date palm cultivars
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Tayyab , Safdar Bushra , Jatoi Mushtaque Ahmed , Solangi Najamuddin , Wali Asif , Ali Nawazish , Liu Kunlun
Published: October 2021

Date paste is an intermediate food product from date palm fruit containing valuable nutrients having a great potential as sugar substitute or filler in various food formulations. The study aimed to investigate the physicochemical, rheological, tribological, structural, and thermal characteristics of date paste prepared from five cultivars of date palm (Aseel, Muzawati, Dhakki, Rabai, and Karbalain). Dynamic rheological analysis demonstrated viscoelastic nature of all samples. The elastic modulus (G′) was higher than viscous modulus (G″) for all samples, indicating gel‐like nature. All samples showed the typical Stribeck tribological curves, wherein the friction coefficient in the boundary regime in Dhakki, Muzawati, and Rabai pastes were higher than Karbalain and Aseel samples. The friction coefficient was reduced at mixed regime, enhancing lubrication by prevention of surface contact. Endothermic peaks were observed for all samples wherein peak temperature ranged between 138.49 and 154.13°C. The microstructure properties of date paste samples were similar except Muzawati paste.

Practical applications

Recently, there has been a renewed interest in the date palm fruit in order to make better use of off‐grade fruit as a component in various food preparations such as health foods, baking products, and confectionery. Date paste (processing waste) can be used as alternative to sugar for making several food recipes like cakes, desserts, sweets, biscuits, soups, sauces, and so on. Date paste can also be used in salad dressing to add a distinctive sweet taste. Spread date paste simply on toast or swirl it into morning oatmeal or consume it individually in breakfast to gain more energy during the whole day. It is a preferred ingredient for different diets, such as vegan and paleo diets. The current study describes comprehensive information regarding the rheological behavior, textural, tribological, and phytochemical nature of date fruit paste of top commercial cultivars of date palm from Pakistan. The obtained data may provide a general guideline when considering the use of date paste from different cultivars in food products.
Family relationships and the interpersonal theory of suicide in a clinically suicidal sample of adolescents
Authors: Hunt Quintin A. , Krauthamer Ewing E. Stephanie , Weiler Lindsey M. , Ogbaselase Feven A. , Mendenhall Tai , McGuire Jenifer K. , Monet Morgan , Kobak Roger , Diamond Guy S.
Published: October 2021

In a sample of suicidal adolescents (N = 117), we sought to identify how adolescents' attachment to their parents related to a key mechanism of suicide from the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS). We tested both attachment‐anxiety and attachment‐avoidance, to both mother‐ and father‐figures as correlates of the IPTS construct, perceived burdensomeness (PB). In addition, we tested PB as a mediator between these attachment variables and adolescent suicide ideation in a path analysis. Our path analysis indicated both mother‐ and father‐related attachment anxiety were associated with PB and PB was related to suicide ideation. We also found an indirect effect of father‐related attachment anxiety on suicide ideation. This study provides empirical support for earlier systemic work that proposes how family relationships may influence an adolescent's suicidal ideation. Finally, we provide practical clinical suggestions for how therapists may implement a systemic framework to address a suicidal adolescent and their family relationships.
The composite link between technological change and employment: A survey of the literature
Authors: Mondolo Jasmine
Published: October 2021

The role played by technological change in employment trends has long been debated and investigated, but the evidence has proven to be inconclusive. This paper aims to shed light on this topic by critically reviewing a broad and heterogeneous body of literature on the employment implications of technical progress. To this purpose, it briefly discusses the main theories and models that underpin the empirical analysis and reviews the literature following two main criteria, namely, the proxy for technological change and the level of analysis. It also accounts for the effect of technical progress on both overall employment and on distinct occupational, educational and demographic groups. Particular attention is devoted to the results of some very recent studies that attempt to unfold the impact of complex automation technologies, especially robots, and to provide a preliminary account of the evolution, distribution, challenges and potential of Artificial Intelligence.
Age and chronotype influenced sleep timing changes during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Bottary Ryan , Fields Eric C. , Kensinger Elizabeth A. , Cunningham Tony J.
Published: October 2021

Social restrictions necessary to reduce the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) profoundly changed how we socialised, worked and, for students, attended classes. Interestingly, significant sleep pattern shifts occurred in the context of pandemic‐related social restrictions. Whether age and chronotype influenced these sleep pattern changes remains poorly understood. In this pre‐registered (https://osf.io/4a3fx), web‐based study, United States residents reported, in one‐time assessments, demographic information, self‐reported chronotype using the reduced Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire, and pre‐pandemic and pandemic first wave sleep timing using the Ultrashort Munich Chronotype Questionnaire. Participants reported sleep phase delays, reduced social jetlag (SJL) and reduced social sleep restriction (SSR) during the first wave of the pandemic compared to pre‐pandemic. Pandemic‐related changes in SJL and SSR varied with participants’ age and self‐reported chronotype. Young adults reported the greatest reductions in SJL and young adults and individuals with evening chronotypes reported the greatest reductions in SSR. We conclude that these groups may have been the most vulnerable to social–biological sleep timing desynchrony under pre‐pandemic social, occupational, and educational schedules.
Association of genetic variations with NAFLD in lean individuals
Authors: Lin Huapeng , Wong Grace L.‐H. , Whatling Carl , Chan Anthony W.‐H. , Leung Howard H.‐W. , Tse Chi‐Hang , Shu Sally S.‐T. , Chim Angel M.‐L. , Lai Jimmy C.‐T. , Yip Terry C.‐F. , Wong Vincent W.‐S.
Published: October 2021

Background & Aims

How adiposity influences the effect of genetic variants on non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the Asian population remains unclear. We aimed to study the association between genetic risk variants and susceptibility/severity of NAFLD in the lean, overweight and obese individuals.

Methods

Nine hundred and four community subjects underwent proton‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy and transient elastography examination. Lean (<23 kg/m2), overweight (23‐24.9 kg/m2) and obesity (≥25 kg/m2) were defined according to the body mass index cut‐offs for Asians. NAFLD was defined as intrahepatic triglycerides ≥5%. PNPLA3, TM6SF2, MBOAT7 and 9 other gene polymorphisms were analysed by rhAMPTM SNP assays.

Results

Five hundred and twenty‐nine (58.5%), 162 (17.9%) and 213 (23.6%) subjects were lean, overweight and obese, respectively. The prevalence of NAFLD was 12.4%, 41.4% and 59.1% in the three groups (P < .001). Amongst those with NAFLD, lean subjects (30.3%) were more likely to carry the PNPLA3 rs738409 GG genotype than overweight (17.9%) and obese subjects (17.4%) (P = .003). Compared with the CC genotype, the GG genotype was associated with the greatest increase in the risk of NAFLD in lean subjects (odds ratio [OR] 6.04), compared with overweight (OR 3.43, 95% CI [1.06, 11.14]) and obese subjects (OR 2.51, 95% CI [0.93, 6.78]). Additionally, the TM6SF2 rs58542926 TT genotype was associated with reduced serum triglycerides only in lean subjects. A gene‐BMI effect was not observed for the other gene polymorphisms.

Conclusions

The PNPLA3 rs738409 gene polymorphism has a greater effect on liver fat in Asian lean individuals than in overweight or obese ones.
Drought reduces water uptake in beech from the drying topsoil, but no compensatory uptake occurs from deeper soil layers
Authors: Gessler Arthur , Bächli Lukas , Rouholahnejad Freund Elham , Treydte Kerstin , Schaub Marcus , Haeni Matthias , Weiler Markus , Seeger Stefan , Marshall John , Hug Christian , Zweifel Roman , Hagedorn Frank , Rigling Andreas , Saurer Matthias , Meusburger Katrin
Published: October 2021

The intensity and frequency of droughts events are projected to increase in future with expected adverse effects for forests. Thus, information on the dynamics of tree water uptake from different soil layers during and after drought is crucial.

We applied an in situ water isotopologue monitoring system to determine the oxygen isotope composition in soil and xylem water of European beech with a 2‐h resolution together with measurements of soil water content, transpiration and tree water deficit. Using a Bayesian isotope mixing model, we inferred the relative and absolute contribution of water from four different soil layers to tree water use.

Beech took up more than 50% of its water from the uppermost 5 cm soil layer at the beginning of the 2018 drought, but then reduced absolute water uptake from the drying topsoil by 84%. The trees were not able to quantitatively compensate for restricted topsoil water availability by additional uptake from deeper soil layers, which is related to the fine root depth distribution. Absolute water uptake from the topsoil was restored to pre‐drought levels within 3 wk after rewetting.

These uptake patterns help to explain both the drought sensitivity of beech and its high recovery potential after drought release.
UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase enhances rice survival at high temperature
Authors: Xia Saisai , Liu He , Cui Yuanjiang , Yu Haiping , Rao Yuchun , Yan Yuping , Zeng Dali , Hu Jiang , Zhang Guangheng , Gao Zhenyu , Zhu Li , Shen Lan , Zhang Qiang , Li Qing , Dong Guojun , Guo Longbiao , Qian Qian , Ren Deyong
Published: October 2021

High‐temperature stress inhibits normal cellular processes and results in abnormal growth and development in plants. However, the mechanisms by which rice (Oryza sativa) copes with high temperature are not yet fully understood.

In this study, we identified a rice high temperature enhanced lesion spots 1 (hes1) mutant, which displayed larger and more dense necrotic spots under high temperature conditions. HES1 encoded a UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine pyrophosphorylase, which had UGPase enzymatic activity. RNA sequencing analysis showed that photosystem‐related genes were differentially expressed in the hes1 mutant at different temperatures, indicating that HES1 plays essential roles in maintaining chloroplast function. HES1 expression was induced under high temperature conditions.

Furthermore, loss‐of‐function of HES1 affected heat shock factor expression and its mutation exhibited greater vulnerability to high temperature. Several experiments revealed that higher accumulation of reactive oxygen species occurred in the hes1 mutant at high temperature. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) and comet experiments indicated that the hes1 underwent more severe DNA damage at high temperature. The determination of chlorophyll content and chloroplast ultrastructure showed that more severe photosystem defects occurred in the hes1 mutant under high temperature conditions.

This study reveals that HES1 plays a key role in adaptation to high‐temperature stress in rice.
Correlations between allocation to foliar phosphorus fractions and maintenance of photosynthetic integrity in six mangrove populations as affected by chilling
Authors: Yan Li , Sunoj V. S. John , Short Aidan W. , Lambers Hans , Elsheery Nabil I. , Kajita Tadashi , Wee Alison K. S. , Cao Kun‐Fang
Published: October 2021

Chilling restrains the distribution of mangroves. We tested whether foliar phosphorus (P) fractions and gene expression are associated with cold tolerance in mangrove species.

We exposed seedlings of six mangrove populations from different latitudes to favorable, chilling and recovery treatments, and measured their foliar P concentrations and fractions, photochemistry, nighttime respiration, and gene expression.

AKandelia obovata(KO; 26.45°N) population completely and aBruguiera gymnorhiza(Guangxi) (BGG; 21.50°N) population partially (30%) survived chilling.Avicennia marina(24.29°N), and otherB. gymnorhiza(26.66°N, 24.40°N, and 19.62°N) populations died after chilling. Photosystems of KO and photosystem I of BGG were least injured. During chilling, leaf P fractions, except nucleic acid P in three populations, declined and photoinhibition and nighttime respiration increased in all populations, with the greatest impact inB. gymnorhiza. Leaf nucleic acid P was positively correlated with photochemical efficiency during recovery and nighttime respiration across populations for each treatment.

Relatively high concentrations of nucleic acid P and metabolite P were associated with stronger chilling tolerance in KO.Bruguiera gymnorhizaexhibited relatively low concentrations of organic P in favorable and chilling conditions, but its partially survived population showed stronger compensation in nucleic acid P and Pi concentrations and gene expression during recovery.
Pro tem rationality
Authors: Staffel Julia
Published: October 2021

Epistemologists routinely distinguish between two kinds of justification or rationality – the propositional and the doxastic kind – in order to characterize importantly different ways in which an attitude can be justified or rational for a person. I argue that these notions, as they are commonly understood, are well suited to capture rationality judgments about the attitudes that agents reach asconclusionsof their reasoning. Yet, these notions are ill‐suited to capture rationality judgments about attitudes that agents form while their reasoning is still in progress. In fact, we currently lack any suitable theory of rationality that lets us capture the ways in which we evaluate the rationality of suchtransitionalattitudes, even though they are ubiquitous. I propose to capture these rationality judgments by introducing a new notion of rationality that is orthogonal to the propositional/doxastic distinction, which I callpro tem rationality. This new notion can be integrated with both traditional and formal ways of characterizing rationality or justification. It can be used to enlighten debates about logical and empirical learning, higher‐order evidence, and the epistemology of philosophy, among others.
Effect of zinc imbalance and salicylic acid co‐supply on Arabidopsis response to fungal pathogens with different lifestyles
Authors: Quaglia M. , Troni E. , D’Amato R. , Ederli L.
Published: October 2021

In higher plants, Zn nutritional imbalance can affect growth, physiology and response to stress, with effect variable depending on host–pathogen interaction. Mechanisms through which Zn operates are not yet well known. The hormone salicylic acid (SA) can affect plant ion uptake, transport and defence responses. Thus, in this study the impact of Zn imbalance and SA co‐supply on severity of infection with the necrotrophic fungal pathogen B. cinerea or the biotroph G. cichoracearum was assessed in A. thaliana Col‐0.

Spectrophotometric assays for pigments and malondialdehyde (MDA) content as a marker of lipid peroxidation, plant defensin 1.2 gene expression by semi‐quantitative PCR, callose visualization by fluorescence microscopy and diseases evaluation by macro‐ and microscopic observations were carried out.

Zinc plant concentration varied with the supplied dose. In comparison with the control, Zn‐deficit or Zn‐excess led to reduced chlorophyll content and PDF 1.2 transcripts induction. In Zn‐deficient plants, where MDA increased, also the susceptibility to B. cinerea increased, whereas MDA decreased in G. cichoracearum. Zinc excess increased susceptibility to both pathogens. Co‐administration of SA positively affected MDA level, callose deposition, PDF 1.2 transcripts and plant response to the two pathogens.

The increased susceptibility to B. cinerea in both Zn‐deficient and Zn‐excess plants could be related to lack of induction of PDF 1.2 transcripts; oxidative stress could explain higher susceptibility to the necrotroph and lower susceptibility to the biotroph in Zn‐deficient plants. This research shows that an appropriate evaluation of Zn supply according to the prevalent stress factor is desirable for plants.
Resumption of ovarian activity following removal of a 4.7 mg deslorelin implant in queens
Authors: Ferré‐Dolcet L. , Ferro S. , Contiero B. , Andretta F. , Cattai A. , Fontaine C. , Romagnoli S.
Published: October 2021

Deslorelin implants are widely used in felines. Due to their prolonged duration cat breeders frequently request early implant removal. The interval between deslorelin implant removal and resumption of ovarian function in queens is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interval between the removal of a deslorelin implant and the resumption of ovarian activity in adult queens. Twenty‐three queens were treated with a 4.7 mg deslorelin implant placed in the periumbilical area. In the 16 queens completing the study implants were surgically removed at 3, 6 or 9 months (n = 6, 4 and 6 queens, respectively). Queens received a GnRH stimulation test as part of their pre‐treatment general and reproductive health check. Following implantation treatment, all queens in inter‐oestrus–anoestrus at the time of treatment came in oestrus within 2–5 days. Starting 7–14 days following implant removal queens were checked every 1–2 weeks with reproductive ultrasonography, a vaginal smear and blood collection. The interval to resumption of ovarian function ranged from 3 to 7 weeks irrespective of treatment length and age of the queen but was longer when the implant was removed at decreasing photoperiod (p < .05). In conclusion, at least 3 weeks post‐removal are needed during increasing photoperiod to achieve follicular development and oestrogen production sufficient to support oestrous behaviour in queens following removal of a 4.7 mg deslorelin implant, while this time may increase up to 7 weeks during decreasing photoperiod. Further studies are needed to assess the interval between removal of a deslorelin implant and occurrence of ovulation as well as fertility at the first oestrus after a deslorelin treatment.
Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension in Australia and New Zealand: An analysis of the PHSANZ registry
Authors: Kearney Katherine , Gold Joshua , Corrigan Carolyn , Dhital Kumud , Boshell David , Haydock David , McGiffin David , Wilson Michael , Collins Nicholas , Cordina Rachael , Dwyer Nathan , Feenstra John , Lavender Melanie , Wrobel Jeremy , Whitford Helen , Williams Trevor , Keating Dominic , Whyte Ken , McWilliams Tanya , Keogh Anne , Strange Geoff , Kotlyar Eugene , Anderson James , Lau Edmund MT
Published: October 2021

Background and objective

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a serious condition occurring in 2%–4% of patients after acute pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is a potential cure for technically operable disease. The epidemiology and long‐term outcomes of CTEPH have not been previously described in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Pulmonary Hypertension Society of Australia and New Zealand (PHSANZ) registry for patients diagnosed with CTEPH between January 2004 and March 2020. Baseline characteristics, treatment strategies, outcome data and long‐term survival are reported.

Results

A total of 386 patients were included with 146 (37.8%) undergoing PEA and 240 (62.2%) in the non‐PEA group. PEA patients were younger (55 ± 16 vs. 62 ± 16 years, p < 0.001) with higher baseline 6‐min walk distance (6MWD; 405 ± 122 vs. 323 ± 146 m, p = 0.021), whilst both groups had similar baseline pulmonary haemodynamics. Pulmonary hypertension‐specific therapy was used in 54% of patients post‐PEA and 88% in the non‐PEA group. The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year survival rates were 93%, 87% and 84% for the PEA group compared to 86%, 73% and 62%, respectively, for the non‐PEA group (p < 0.001). Multivariate survival analysis showed baseline 6MWD was an independent predictor of survival in both operated and medically managed patients.

Conclusion

In this first multicentre report of CTEPH in Australia and New Zealand, long‐term survival is comparable to that in other contemporary CTEPH registries. However, PEA was only performed in a minority of CTEPH patients (37.8%) and significantly less than overseas reports. Greater awareness of PEA and improved patient access to experienced CTEPH centres are important priorities.
The Fokas–Lenells equations: Bilinear approach
Authors: Liu Shu‐zhi , Wang Jing , Zhang Da‐jun
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the Fokas–Lenells (FL) equations are investigated via bilinear approach. We bilinearize the unreduced FL system, derive double Wronskian solutions, and then, by means of a reduction technique we obtain variety of solutions of the reduced equations. This enables us to have a full profile of solutions of the classical and nonlocal FL equations. Some obtained solutions are illustrated based on asymptotic analysis. As a notable new result, we obtain solutions to the FL equation, which are related to real discrete eigenvalues and not reported before in the analytic approaches. These solutions behave like (multi)periodic waves or solitary waves with algebraic decay. In addition, we also obtain solutions to the two‐dimensional massive Thirring model from those of the FL equation.
Katie Eriksson’s caring theories. Part 1. The caritative caring theory, the multidimensional health theory and the theory of human suffering
Authors: Bergbom Ingegerd , Nåden Dagfinn , Nyström Lisbet
Published: October 2021

In this article, Katie Eriksson's caring theories including the caritative caring theory, the multidimensional health theory and the theory of human suffering are described. The assumptions and concepts, both etymologically and semantically investigated, are founded in ontology. Caring is a human natural phenomenon and patient means the suffering human being. In the caritative caring theory, the substance and core of caring is described as ‘to care is to tend, play and learn in faith, hope and love’. The starting point is love, mercy, human kindness, compassion and a caring relationship. Caring is healing and sharing—a will to care, which is founded in faith and life energy. Caring promotes humanity and people's health, and thus a feeling of wholeness, integration, growth and inner freedom. The goal is to promote and protect health and life and alleviate suffering. Health means wholeness and holiness. Eriksson emphasises an ontological aspect of health, where the human being is seen as an inseparable being comprising a body, soul and spirit. To be healthy is to be whole and to feel whole, where wholeness means life itself. In the multidimensional perspective, the essence of health is vitality. Vitality is the innermost dimension of health; it is a force to energy in life, to joy and desire. Health is a dynamic movement between dimensions of becoming, being and doing. Eriksson seeks answers to the ‘what’ of suffering through concept analysis, but she also discusses the ‘why’ question. Each suffering is unique. There is a connection between suffering and desire, where suffering gives birth to an unsuspected life power that is not seen as having any other source than suffering itself. Desire and suffering make up the driving power for a person's being and formation into the person she is intended to become.
Blood transfusion demands in a tertiary otolaryngology, head and neck centre: A 5‐year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Luke Louis , Ranmuthu Charindu K. I. , Ranmuthu Chanuka D. S. , Habeeb Amir , Appukutty Jithesh , Irune Ekpemi
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To retrospectively analyse and report the utilisation of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in a tertiary otolaryngology, head and neck centre in the United Kingdom.

Background

Twenty‐seven per cent of RBC transfusions were for surgical indications in a 2014 England and North Wales survey. Currently, there is limited literature on RBC transfusions in Otolaryngology.

Methods/materials

All inpatients admitted primarily under the care of the Otolaryngology, Head and Neck service between January 2015 and December 2019 were analysed. The primary outcomes of interest were number of units of RBC transfused over 5 years and distribution across clinical indications. Secondary outcome measure was cost of RBC transfusions over the same time period.

Results

Most patients receiving transfusions are aged in their sixth and seventh decades. Epistaxis patients utilised 105 RBC units over the 5 years (56% of total RBC units) with emergency epistaxis accounting for 78% of use. Post‐operative Head & Neck Cancer surgery with and without reconstruction required 47 RBC units over 5 years (25% of total RBC units). The mean cost incurred by the department over the 5‐year period was £6171.49 (SD 1460.25). The cost has fallen by over £2000 over the 5‐year period.

Conclusion

Blood transfusion use has fluctuated over the last 5 years. Epistaxis and post‐operative Head and Neck cancer cases account for significant use compared with other patient groups. Prehabilitation strategies will add value towards mitigating future consumption of RBC.
Symbolic Deep Networks: A Psychologically Inspired Lightweight and Efficient Approach to Deep Learning
Authors: Veksler Vladislav D. , Hoffman Blaine E. , Buchler Norbou
Published: October 2021

The last two decades have produced unprecedented successes in the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML), due almost entirely to advances in deep neural networks (DNNs). Deep hierarchical memory networks are not a novel concept in cognitive science and can be traced back more than a half century to Simon's early work on discrimination nets for simulating human expertise. The major difference between DNNs and the deep memory nets meant for explaining human cognition is that the latter are symbolic networks meant to model the dynamics of human memory and learning. Cognition‐inspired symbolic deep networks (SDNs) address several known issues with DNNs, including (1) learning efficiency, where a much larger number of training examples are required for DNNs than would be expected for a human; (2) catastrophic interference, where what is learned by a DNN gets unlearned when a new problem is presented; and (3) explainability, where there is no way to explain what is learned by a DNN. This paper explores whether SDNs can achieve similar classification accuracy performance to DNNs across several popular ML datasets and discusses the strengths and weaknesses of each approach. Simulations reveal that (1) SDNs provide similar accuracy to DNNs in most cases, (2) SDNs are far more efficient than DNNs, (3) SDNs are as robust as DNNs to irrelevant/noisy attributes in the data, and (4) SDNs are far more robust to catastrophic interference than DNNs. We conclude that SDNs offer a promising path toward human‐level accuracy and efficiency in category learning. More generally, ML frameworks could stand to benefit from cognitively inspired approaches, borrowing more features and functionality from models meant to simulate and explain human learning.
Crossing cultural borders: A case study of conceptual design outcomes of U.S. and Moroccan student samples
Authors: Peng Aoran , Menold Jessica , Miller Scarlett
Published: October 2021

There has been a plethora of design theory and methodology research conducted to answer important questions centered around how ideas are developed and translated into successful products. Understanding this is vital because of the role creativity and innovation have in long-term economic success. However, most of this research have focused on U.S. samples, leaving to question if differences exist across cultural borders. Answering this question is key to supporting a successful global economy. The current work provides a first step at answering this question by examining similarities and differences in concept generation and screening practices between students in an emerging market, Morocco, and those in a more established market, the U.S during a design thinking workshop. Our results show that while students in the U.S. sample produced more ideas than the Moroccan sample, there was no difference in the perceived quality of ideas generated (idea goodness). In addition, while U.S. women were found to produce more ideas than U.S. men, there were no gender effects for students in the Moroccan sample. Finally, the results show that ideas with low goodness had a higher probability of passing concept screening if it was evaluated by its owner regardless of the population studied – identifying the potential impact of ownership bias across cultures. As a whole, these results suggest that key aspects of design theory and methodology research may in fact translate across cultures but also identified key areas for further investigation.
A Tensor Voting-Based Surface Anomaly Classification Approach by Using 3D Point Cloud Data
Authors: Du Juan , Yan Hao , Chang Tzyy-Shuh , Shi Jianjun
Published: October 2021

Advanced three-dimensional (3D) scanning technology has been widely used in many industries to collect the massive point cloud data of artifacts for part dimension measurement and shape analysis. Though point cloud data has product surface quality information, it is challenging to conduct effective surface anomaly classification due to the complex data representation, high-dimensionality, and inconsistent size of the 3D point cloud data within each sample. To deal with these challenges, this paper proposes a tensor voting-based approach for anomaly classification of artifact surfaces. A case study based on 3D scanned data obtained from a manufacturing plant shows the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Evaluation of Genome Sequences of the Bacteriophages JeTaime and Luna22
Authors: Flota Maximiliano F. , Moss Caitlyn R. , Balish Mitchell F. , Chen Nikki , Cherry Kristen C. , Cornely Kathleen A. , D’Alessandro Hayley M. , DiBenedetto Mouna S. , DeGiorgis Joseph A. , Dixon Steven Grant , Dombrowski Emily G. , Edwards Megan K. , Eskew-Martin Jonathan C. , Finnegan Isabel E. P. , Hanna Abanob G. , Hunter Sarah E. , Johnson Sabrina L. , Kenan Virginia A. L. , Kendrick Chanelle , Licaj Lucas C. , Maldonado Victoria C. , Mazzei Megan G. , Mitrick Gracen E. , Nelson Bradford L. J. , Patel Jui S. , Parry Alexander I. , Smekrud Kacey M. , Snyder Kirsten K. , Stewart Jonathan A. , Swiger Fredrick K. , Thomas Madison K. , Waters Josiah C. , Byrum Christine A.
Published: October 2021

The mycobacteriophages JeTaime (E cluster) and Luna22 (Q cluster) were isolated from soil in Providence, Rhode Island, and Charleston, South Carolina, respectively, using a
Mycobacterium smegmatis
mc
2
155 host. The genome of JeTaime is 75,099 bp (142 predicted genes), and that of Luna22 is 53,730 bp (87 predicted genes). Both phages exhibit
Siphoviridae
morphology.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Achromobacter
Strain ES-001, a Betaproteobacterium Associated with a Cellulolytic Soil Community
Authors: Fernando Chamil E. , LaForge Joseph J. , Fields Stephen D.
Published: October 2021

The genome sequence of the soilborne bacterium
Achromobacter
strain ES-001, assembled from Illumina NextSeq and Nanopore MinION reads, is rich in genes predicted to encode iron, arsenic, and hydrocarbon metabolism, as well as type 6 secretion components. The sequenced genome will aid in determining the roles of noncellulolytic species in cellulose-enriched environments.
Rapid and High-Throughput Reverse Transcriptase Quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) Assay for Identification and Differentiation between SARS-CoV-2 Variants B.1.1.7 and B.1.351
Authors: Erster Oran , Mendelson Ella , Levy Virginia , Kabat Areej , Mannasse Batya , Asraf Hadar , Azar Roberto , Ali Yaniv , Shirazi Rachel , Bucris Efrat , Bar-Ilan Dana , Mor Orna , Mandelboim Michal , Sofer Danit , Fleishon Shai , Zuckerman Neta S.
Published: October 2021

This study describes the design and utilization of a multiplex reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to identify SARS-COV-2 (SC2) RNA in general and, specifically, to detect whether it is of lineage B.1.1.7 or B.1.351. Implementation of this method in diagnostic and research laboratories worldwide may help the efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
Averting an Outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in a University Residence Hall through Wastewater Surveillance
Authors: Corchis-Scott Ryland , Geng Qiudi , Seth Rajesh , Ray Rajan , Beg Mohsan , Biswas Nihar , Charron Lynn , Drouillard Kenneth D. , D’Souza Ramsey , Heath Daniel D. , Houser Chris , Lawal Felicia , McGinlay James , Menard Sherri Lynne , Porter Lisa A. , Rawlings Diane , Scholl Matthew L. , Siu K. W. Michael , Tong Yufeng , Weisener Christopher G. , Wilhelm Steven W. , McKay R. Michael L.
Published: October 2021

Among early adopters of wastewater monitoring for SARS-CoV-2 have been colleges and universities throughout North America, many of whom are using this approach to monitor congregate living facilities for early evidence of COVID-19 infection as an integral component of campus screening programs. Yet, while there have been numerous examples where wastewater monitoring on a university campus has detected evidence for infection among community members, there are few examples where this monitoring triggered a public health response that may have averted an actual outbreak.
Increased Incidence of Invasive Haemophilus influenzae Disease Driven by Non-Type B Isolates in Ontario, Canada, 2014 to 2018
Authors: McTaggart Lisa R. , Cronin Kirby , Seo Chi Yon , Wilson Sarah , Patel Samir N. , Kus Julianne V.
Published: October 2021

H. influenzaecan cause serious invasive, life-threatening disease and is considered 1 of 12 priority pathogens by the World Health Organization. Widespread vaccination againstH. influenzaeserotype b (Hib) has resulted in very low incidence of Hib in Ontario and other regions that have vaccination programs.
Adjunctive Probiotics Alleviates Asthmatic Symptoms via Modulating the Gut Microbiome and Serum Metabolome
Authors: Liu Ailing , Ma Teng , Xu Ning , Jin Hao , Zhao Feiyan , Kwok Lai-Yu , Zhang Heping , Zhang Shukun , Sun Zhihong
Published: October 2021

The human gut microbiota has a potential effect on the pathogenesis of asthma and is closely related to the disease phenotype. Our trial has demonstrated that co-administering Probio-M8 synergized with conventional therapy to alleviate asthma symptoms. The findings of the present study provide new insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of asthma, mechanisms of novel therapeutic strategies, and application of probiotics-based therapy.
Culturable Fungi from Urban Soils in China I: Description of 10 New Taxa
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Yuan , Shao Qiu-Yu , Li Xin , Chen Wan-Hao , Liang Jian-Dong , Han Yan-Feng , Huang Jian-Zhong , Liang Zong-Qi
Published: October 2021

Keratinophilic fungi are a group that can degrade and utilize keratin-rich material. It is also because of this ability that many taxa can cause infections in animals or humans but remain poorly studied.
A Serological Snapshot of COVID-19 Initial Stages in Israel by a 6-Plex Antigen Array
Authors: Fisher Morly , Levy Haim , Fatelevich Ella , Afrimov Yafa , Ben-Shmuel Amir , Rosenfeld Ronit , Noy-Porat Tal , Glinert Itai , Sittner Assa , Biber Asaf , Belkin Ana , Bar-David Elad , Puni Reut , Levy Itzchak , Mazor Ohad , Weiss Shay , Mechaly Adva
Published: October 2021

A 6-plex protein array presenting the whole inactivated virus and five nucleocapsid and spike-derived SARS-CoV-2 antigens was used to generate a serological snapshot of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and seroconversion in Israel in the early months of the pandemic. Our findings confirm a very low seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the Israeli adult population.
Supplemental Material: Ultrahigh-temperature granulite-facies metamorphism and exhumation of deep crust in a migmatite dome during late- to post-orogenic collapse and extension in the central Adirondack Highlands (New York, USA)
Authors: Metzger E.P. , al. et , Leech M.L.
Published: October 2021

Text S1: Supplemental text. Figure S1: Cathodoluminescence images for all analyzed zircon grains. Figure S2: REE spider plots for zircon. Figure S3: Tukey honestly significant difference (HSD) for the timing of anatexis. Table S1: Cathodoluminescence images for all analyzed zircon grains. Table S2. Grossular content of garnet used to calculate the 95% confidence intervals for isopleth modeling in Figure 13.
Fifteen-minute consultation: The dizzy child
Authors: Crunkhorn Rosa , Dasgupta Suparna , Seal Arnab Kumar , Dasgupta Soumit
Published: October 2021

Vestibular disorders are often overlooked in children and may cause significant morbidity. About a third of children presenting with problems in balance show a vestibular pathology and the overall prevalence of paediatric vertigo is about 5%. Appropriate diagnosis and holistic management can have a significantly positive impact on a child’s quality of life and can be very rewarding. We present a structured approach to the assessment and management of a child presenting with dizziness in a general, non-neurological specialty or community paediatric outpatient setting.