bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revision of Faraday rotation measure constraints on the primordial magnetic field using the IllustrisTNG simulation
Authors: Arámburo-García Andrés , Bondarenko Kyrylo , Boyarsky Alexey , Neronov Andrii , Scaife Anna , Sokolenko Anastasia
Published: July 2022

Previously derived Faraday rotation constraints on the volume-filling intergalactic magnetic field (IGMF) have used analytical models that made a range of simplifying assumptions about magnetic field evolution in the intergalactic medium and did not consider the effect of baryonic feedback on large-scale structures. In this work, we revise existing Faraday rotation constraints on the IGMF using a numerical model of the intergalactic medium from the IllustrisTNG cosmological simulation that includes a sophisticated model of the baryonic feedback. We use the IllustrisTNG model to calculate the rotation measure and compare the resulting mean and median of the absolute value of the rotation measure with data from the NRAO VLA Sky Survey (NVSS). The numerical model of the intergalactic medium includes a full magnetohydrodynamic model of the compressed primordial magnetic field as well as a model of the regions where the magnetic field is not primordial, but is rather produced by the process of baryonic feedback. Separating these two types of regions, we are able to assess the influence of the primordial magnetic field on the Faraday rotation signal. We find that by correcting for regions of compressed primordial field and accounting for the fact that part of the intergalactic medium is occupied by magnetic fields spread by baryonic feedback processes rather than by the primordial field relaxes the Faraday rotation bound by a factor of ≃3. This results in B0 < 1.8 × 10−9 G for large correlation length IGMFs.
On the asymptotic behaviour of cosmic density-fluctuation power spectra of cold dark matter
Authors: Konrad Sara , Ginat Yonadav Barry , Bartelmann Matthias
Published: July 2022

We study the small-scale asymptotic behaviour of the cold dark matter density fluctuation power spectrum in the Zel’dovich approximation, without introducing an ultraviolet cut-off. Assuming an initially correlated Gaussian random field and spectral index 0 < ns < 1, we derive the small-scale asymptotic behaviour of the initial momentum–momentum correlations. This result is then used to derive the asymptotics of the power spectrum in the Zel’dovich approximation. Our main result is an asymptotic series, dominated by a k−3 tail at large wave-numbers, containing higher-order terms that differ by integer powers of $k^{n_\mathrm{ s}-1}$ and logarithms of k. Furthermore, we show that dark matter power spectra with an ultraviolet cut-off develop an intermediate range of scales where the power spectrum is accurately described by the asymptotics of dark matter without a cut-off. These results reveal information about the mathematical structure that underlies the perturbative terms in kinetic field theory and thus the non-linear power spectrum. We also discuss the sensitivity of the small-scale asymptotics to the spectral index ns.
Effects of Domestication on Plant–Microbiome Interactions
Authors: Gutierrez Andres , Grillo Michael A
Published: July 2022

Through the process of domestication, selection is targeted on a limited number of plant traits that are typically associated with yield. As an unintended consequence, domesticated plants often perform poorly compared to their wild progenitors for a multitude of traits that were not under selection during domestication, including abiotic and biotic stress tolerance. Over the past decade, advances in sequencing technology have allowed for the rigorous characterization of host-associated microbial communities, termed the microbiome. It is now clear that nearly every conceivable plant interaction with the environment is mediated by interactions with the microbiome. For this reason, plant–microbiome interactions are an area of great promise for plant breeding and crop improvement. Here, we review the literature to assess the potential impact that domestication has had on plant–microbiome interactions and the current understanding of the genetic basis of microbiome variation to inform plant breeding efforts. Overall, we find limited evidence that domestication impacts the diversity of microbiomes, but domestication is often associated with shifts in the abundance and composition of microbial communities, including taxa of known functional significance. Moreover, genome-wide association studies and mutant analysis have not revealed a consistent set of core candidate genes or genetic pathways that confer variation in microbiomes across systems. However, such studies do implicate a consistent role for plant immunity, root traits, root and leaf exudates and cell wall integrity as key traits that control microbiome colonization and assembly. Therefore, selection on these key traits may pose the most immediate promise for enhancing plant–microbiome interactions through breeding.
Genome Analysis Revives a Forgotten Hybrid Crop Edo-dokoro in the Genus Dioscorea
Authors: Natsume Satoshi , Sugihara Yu , Kudoh Aoi , Oikawa Kaori , Shimizu Motoki , Ishikawa Yuko , Nishihara Masahiro , Abe Akira , Innan Hideki , Terauchi Ryohei
Published: July 2022

A rhizomatous Dioscorea crop ‘Edo-dokoro’ was described in old records of Japan, but its botanical identity has not been characterized. We found that Edo-dokoro is still produced by four farmers in Tohoku-machi of the Aomori prefecture, Japan. The rhizomes of Edo-dokoro are a delicacy to the local people and are sold in the markets. Morphological characters of Edo-dokoro suggest its hybrid origin between the two species, Dioscorea tokoro and Dioscorea tenuipes. Genome analysis revealed that Edo-dokoro likely originated by hybridization of a male D. tokoro to a female D. tenuipes, followed by a backcross with a male plant of D. tokoro. Edo-dokoro is a typical minor crop possibly maintained for more than 300 years but now almost forgotten by the public. We hypothesize that there are many such uncharacterized genetic heritages passed over generations by small-scale farmers that await serious scientific investigation for future use and improvement by using modern genomics information.
Risking or Derisking: How Management Fees Affect Hedge Fund Risk-Taking Choices
Authors: Yin Chengdong , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: July 2022

Hedge fund managers’ risk-taking choices are influenced by their compensation structure. We differ from most studies that focus on incentive fees and the high-water mark by examining how management fees affect managers’ risk-taking. Our simple model shows that managers’ risk-taking is negatively related to their future management fees. Using fund-level data, we find that future management fees are the dominant component of managers’ total compensation. When the contribution of future management fees increases, managers reduce risk-taking to increase survival probabilities. Moreover, funds with higher decreasing returns to scale are more sensitive to future management fees and reduce risk-taking even more.

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
COVID-19 vaccine affects neither prothrombotic antibody profile nor thrombosis in primary anti-phospholipid syndrome: a prospective study
Authors: Pan Haoyu , Tang Zihan , Teng Jialin , Sun Yue , Liu Honglei , Cheng Xiaobing , Su Yutong , Ye Junna , Hu Qiongyi , Chi Huihui , Zhou Zhuochao , Jia Jinchao , Meng Jianfen , Wang Mengyan , Wang Fan , Chen Xia , Ma Yuning , Zhang Hao , You Yijun , Zhu Dehao , Chen Longfang , Yang Chengde , Shi Hui , Liu Tingting
Published: July 2022

Objective

To explore whether inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine influences the profile of prothrombotic autoantibodies and induces thrombotic events in primary APS patients.

Methods

We enrolled 39 primary APS patients who received two doses of inactivated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine (BBIBPCorV, Sinopharm, Beijing, China) voluntarily in this prospective cohort. Prothrombotic autoantibodies were determined before vaccination and 4 weeks after the second dose of vaccination. Thrombotic disorders were evaluated via hospital site visits and assessments.

Results

There was no significant difference in the presence of all 11 autoantibodies detected before and 4 weeks after vaccination: for aCL, IgG (14 vs 16, P = 0.64), IgM (13 vs 19, P = 0.34), IgA (2 vs 3, P = 0.64); anti-β2GP1, IgG (12 vs 12, P = 1.00), IgM (5 vs 8, P = 0.36), IgA (4 vs 3, P = 0.69); anti-PS/PT IgG (13 vs 16, P = 0.48), IgM (17 vs 22, P = 0.26); LAC (22 vs 28, P = 0.16); aPF4-heparin (0 vs 0, P = 1.00) and ANA (23 vs 26, P = 0.48). Notably, the distribution of the aPL profile in the pre- and post-vaccination cohorts was not affected by SARS-CoV-2 vaccination: for patients with a low-risk aPL profile (11 vs 10, P = 0.799) and patients with a high-risk aPL profile (28 vs 29, P = 0.799), respectively. Furthermore, no case exhibited symptoms of the thrombotic disorder during a minimum follow-up period of 12 weeks. There was no adjustment to the ongoing treatment regimens following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

Conclusion

Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine does not influence the profile of anti-phospholipid antibodies and anti-PF4-heparin antibodies nor induces thrombotic events in primary APS patients.
Sicca syndrome in systemic sclerosis: a narrative review on a neglected issue
Authors: Zimmermann François , Robin François , Caillault Leila , Cazalets Claire , Llamas-Gutierrez Francisco , Garlantézec Ronan , Jousse-Joulin Sandrine , Diot Elisabeth , Mensi Sami Eric , Belhomme Nicolas , Jégo Patrick , Coiffier Guillaume , Lescoat Alain
Published: July 2022

SSc is an auto-immune disease characterized by life-threatening manifestations such as lung fibrosis or pulmonary arterial hypertension. Symptoms with a detrimental impact on quality of life are also reported and sicca syndrome (xerostomia, xeropthalmia) is present in up to 80% of patients with SSc. Sicca syndrome can occur in the absence of overlap with Sjögren’s disease and recent studies highlight that fibrosis of minor and major salivary glands, directly linked to the pathogenesis of SSc, could be a major contributor of xerostomia in SSc. This narrative review provides an overview of the clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, management and future perspectives on sicca syndrome in patients with SSc.
Comparison of Healthcare Utilization Between Telemedicine and Standard Care: A Propensity-Score Matched Cohort Study Among Individuals With Chronic Psychotic Disorders in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Shakeri Ahmad , Chu Cherry , Stamenova Vess , Fang Jiming , Barker Lucy C , Vigod Simone N , Bhatia R Sacha , Tadrous Mina
Published: July 2022

Background

Telemedicine adoption has grown significantly due to the coronavirus of 2019 pandemic; however, it remains unclear what the impact of widespread telemedicine use is on healthcare utilization among individuals with psychosis.

Objectives

To investigate the impact of telemedicine use on changes in healthcare utilization among patients with chronic psychotic disorders (CPDs).

Study Design

We conducted a population-based, retrospective propensity-matched cohort study using healthcare administrative data in Ontario, Canada. Patients were included if they had at least one ambulatory visit between March 14, 2020 and September 30, 2020 and a CPD diagnosis any time before March 14, 2020. Telemedicine users (2+ virtual visits after March 14, 2020) were propensity score-matched 1:1 with standard care users (minimum of 1 in-person or virtual ambulatory visit and maximum of 1 virtual visit after March 14, 2020) based on several baseline characteristics. Monthly use of various healthcare services was compared between the two groups from 12 months before to 3 months after their index in-person or virtual ambulatory visit after March 14, 2020 using generalized estimating equations (eg, hospitalizations, emergency department [ED] visits, and outpatient physician visits). The slope of change over the study period (ie, rate ratio) as well as a ratio of slopes, were calculated for both telemedicine and standard care groups for each outcome.

Study Results

A total of 18 333 pairs of telemedicine and standard care patients were identified after matching (60.8% male, mean [SD] age 45.4 [16.3] years). There was a significantly greater decline across time in the telemedicine group compared to the standard care group for ED visits due to any psychiatric conditions (ratio of slopes for telemedicine vs standard care (95% CI), 0.98 (0.98 to 0.99)). However, declines in primary care visit rates (ratio of slopes for telemedicine vs standard care (1.01 (1.01 to 1.02)), mental health outpatient visits with primary care (1.03 (1.03 to 1.04)), and all-cause outpatient visits with primary care (1.01 (1.01 to 1.02)), were steeper among the standard care group than telemedicine group.

Conclusions

Overall, patients with CPDs appeared to benefit from telemedicine as evidenced by increased outpatient healthcare utilization and reductions in ED visits due to psychiatric conditions. This suggests that telemedicine may have allowed this patient group to have better access and continuity of care during the initial waves of the pandemic.
The cortical N1 response to balance perturbation is associated with balance and cognitive function in different ways between older adults with and without Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Payne Aiden M , McKay J Lucas , Ting Lena H
Published: July 2022

Mechanisms underlying associations between balance and cognitive impairments in older adults with and without Parkinson’s disease are poorly understood. Balance disturbances evoke a cortical N1 response that is associated with both balance and cognitive abilities in unimpaired populations. We hypothesized that the N1 response reflects neural mechanisms that are shared between balance and cognitive function, and would therefore be associated with both balance and cognitive impairments in Parkinson’s disease. Although N1 responses did not differ at the group level, they showed different associations with balance and cognitive function in the Parkinson’s disease vs. control groups. In the control group, higher N1 amplitudes were correlated with lower cognitive set shifting ability and lower balance confidence. However, in Parkinson’s disease, narrower N1 widths (i.e., shorter durations) were associated with greater parkinsonian motor symptom severity, lower balance ability and confidence, lower mobility, and lower overall cognitive function. Despite different relationships across populations, the present results suggest the N1 response reflects neural processes related to both balance and cognitive function. A better understanding of neural mechanisms linking balance and cognitive function could provide insight into associations between balance and cognitive decline in aging populations.
Personal space regulation is affected by unilateral temporal lesions beyond the amygdala
Authors: Dureux Audrey , Zigiotto Luca , Sarubbo Silvio , Desoche Clément , Farnè Alessandro , Bolognini Nadia , Hadj-Bouziane Fadila
Published: July 2022

We constantly face situations involving interactions with others that require us to automatically adjust our physical distances to avoid discomfort or anxiety. A previous case study has demonstrated that the integrity of both amygdalae is essential to regulate interpersonal distances. Despite unilateral lesion to the amygdala, as to other sectors of the medial temporal cortex, are known to also affect social behavior, their role in the regulation of interpersonal distances has never been investigated. Here, we sought to fill this gap by testing three patients with unilateral temporal lesions following surgical resections, including one patient with a lesion mainly centered on the amygdala and two with lesions to adjacent medial temporal cortex, on two versions of the stop distance paradigm (i.e. in a virtual reality environment and in a real setting). Our results showed that all three patients set shorter interpersonal distances compared to neurotypical controls. In addition, compared to controls, none of the patients adjusted such physical distances depending on facial emotional expressions, despite they preserved ability to categorize them. Finally, patients' heart rate responses differed from controls when viewing approaching faces. Our findings bring compelling evidence that unilateral lesions within the medial temporal cortex, not necessarily restricted to the amygdala, are sufficient to alter interpersonal distance, thus shedding new light on the neural circuitry regulating distance in social interactions.
Upregulation of Circ_0035266 Contributes to the Malignant Progression of Inflammation-Associated Malignant Transformed Cells Induced by Tobacco-Specific Carcinogen NNK
Authors: Hua Qiuhan , Liu Yufei , Li Meizhen , Li Xueqi , Chen Wei , Diao Qinqin , Ling Yihui , Jiang Yiguo
Published: July 2022

Cigarette smoking-induced chronic inflammation has been considered a vital driver of lung tumorigenesis. The compounds 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), a tobacco-specific carcinogen, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an inflammatory inducer, are important components of tobacco smoke which have been implicated in inflammation-driven carcinogenesis. However, the biological effects and underlying mechanisms of LPS-mediated inflammation on NNK-induced tumorigenesis are still unclear. In this study, BEAS-2B human bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to NNK, LPS or both, for short- or long-term periods. We found that acute LPS exposure promoted the secretion of granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin (IL)-6 in NNK-treated BEAS-2B cells. In addition, chronic LPS exposure facilitated the NNK-induced malignant transformation process by promoting cell proliferation, cell cycle alteration, migration, and clonal formation. Previously, we determined that circular RNA circ_0035266 enhanced cellular inflammation in response to NNK + LPS by sponging miR-181d-5p and regulating expression of its downstream target DEAD-Box Helicase 3 X-Linked (DDX3X). Here, we found that knockdown of circ_0035266 or DDX3X led to a remarkable inhibition of the proliferation, cell cycle progression, and migration of NNK + LPS-transformed BEAS-2B cells, whereas overexpression of these genes produced the opposite effects, indicating the oncogenic roles of circ_0035266 and DDX3X in the malignant progression of chronic inflammation-driven malignant transformed cells. Moreover, the regulatory relationships among circ_0035266, miR-181d-5p, and DDX3X were further confirmed using a group of lung cancer tissues. Conclusively, our findings provide novel insights into our understanding of inflammation-driven tumorigenesis using a cellular malignant transformation model, and indicate a novel tumor-promoting role for circ_0035266 in chemical carcinogenesis.
Molecular plasticity to soil water deficit differs between sessile oak (Quercus Petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) high- and low-water use efficiency genotypes
Authors: Le Provost Gregoire , Gerardin Theo , Plomion Christophe , Brendel Oliver
Published: July 2022

Water use efficiency (WUE) is an important adaptive trait for soil water deficit. The molecular and physiological bases of WUE regulation in crops have been studied in detail in the context of plant breeding. Knowledge for most forest tree species lags behind, despite the need to identify populations or genotypes able to cope with the longer, more intense drought periods likely to result from climate warming. We aimed to bridge this gap in knowledge for sessile oak (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.), one of the most ecologically and economically important tree species in Europe, using a factorial design including trees with contrasted phenotypic values (low and high WUE) and two watering regimes (control and drought). By monitoring the ecophysiological response, we first qualified genotypes for their WUE (by using instantaneous and long-term measures). We then performed RNA-seq to quantify gene expression for the three most extreme genotypes exposed to the two watering regimes. By analyzing the interaction term, we were able to capture the molecular strategy of each group of plants for coping with drought. We identified putative candidate genes potentially involved in the regulation of transpiration rate in high-WUE phenotypes. Regardless of water availability, trees from the high-WUE phenotypic class overexpressed genes associated with drought responses, and in the control of stomatal density and distribution, and displayed a downregulation of genes associated with early stomatal closure and high transpiration rate. Fine physiological screening of sessile oaks with contrasting WUE, and their molecular characterization (i) highlighted subtle differences in transcription between low- and high-WUE genotypes, identifying key molecular players in the genetic control of this trait and (ii) revealed the genes underlying the molecular strategy that evolved in each group to potentially cope with water deficit, providing new insight into the within-species diversity in drought adaptation strategies.
Hormonal and Metabolomic Responses of Dendrobium catenatum to Infection with the Southern Blight Pathogen Sclerotium delphinii
Authors: Wu Lingshang , Sun Meichen , Chen Xueliang , Si Dun , Si Jinping
Published: July 2022

Southern blight caused by Sclerotium delphinii has a devastating effect on Dendrobium catenatum (an extremely valuable medicinal and food homologous Orchidaceae plant). However, the mechanisms underlying S. delphinii infection and D. catenatum response are far from known. Here, we investigated the infection process and mode of S. delphinii through microscopic observations of detached leaves and living plantlets and further explored the hormonal and metabolomic responses of D. catenatum during S. delphinii infection by using the widely targeted metabolome method. The results showed that S. delphinii infection involves two stages: a contact phase (12 to 16 h after inoculation) and a penetration stage (20 h after inoculation). S. delphinii hyphae could penetrate leaves directly (via swollen hyphae and the formation of an infection cushion) or indirectly (via stomatal penetration), causing water-soaked lesions on leaves within 24 to 28 h after inoculation and expanded thereafter. The content of jasmonates increased after the hyphal contact and remained at high levels during S. delphinii infection, whereas the ethylene precursor (1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid) accumulated significantly after penetration. Furthermore, metabolites of the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid pathways were enriched after pathogen penetration, whereas several amino acids accumulated in significant amounts at the late stage of infection. Moreover, some other associated metabolites were significantly altered during pathogen infection. Therefore, the jasmonate, phenylpropanoid, flavonoid, and amino acid pathways could play crucial roles in D. catenatum resistance to S. delphinii infection. This study provides insight into the prevention and control of southern blight disease of D. catenatum.
Capacity building in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Silvers Rebecca , Watters Rick , Van Meter Jessica
Published: July 2022

NPs are an essential resource in the organization and creation of capacity-building efforts to improve healthcare across the globe. There are limited data to guide the creation of effective supplementary education projects. Recent evidence highlights the essential components of sustainability, curriculum development, and program evaluation.
Engaging nurses through active and experiential learning
Authors: Ward Laura Amber
Published: July 2022

Developing unique, creative, and engaging content that builds upon previous experience is key to captivating the attention and improving knowledge retention of adult learners. Considering the different learning styles, this article presents diverse active and experiential learning strategies that can be replicated in healthcare practice settings to improve nurses' skills and ensure high-quality patient care.
Comparison of Shoulder Motion Measurements by Visual Estimate, Goniometer and Motion Capture
Authors: Russo Stephanie A. , Chafetz Ross S. , Rodriguez Luisa M. , Roposh Carolyn M. , Zlotolow Dan A. , Kozin Scott H. , Gaughan John P. , Richards James G.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Brachial plexus birth injuries (BPBI) can result in lasting impairments of external rotation and cross-body adduction (CBA) that disrupt functional activities such as dressing, grooming, or throwing a ball. The purpose of this study was to compare the quantification of shoulder humerothoracic (HT) external rotation (ER), and glenohumeral (GH) CBA by 3 methods – physician visual estimate, goniometer measurement by an occupational therapist, and motion capture.

Methods:

Twenty-six patients with BPBI (average age of 9.9±3.2 y) participated in this study. Mallet scores and visual estimates of passive HT ER and GH CBA were recorded by a physician. The passive measures were repeated by an occupational therapist using a goniometer while motion capture measures were simultaneously collected. Active HT ER was also measured by motion capture. The passive measures were compared with analyses of variance with repeated measures, intraclass correlations, and Bland-Altman plots. External rotation Mallet scores determined by motion capture and by the physician were compared.

Results:

The measures of GH CBA were not statistically different and demonstrated good agreement, but substantial variation. For HT ER, all measures were significantly different and demonstrated poor agreement and substantial variation. When the joint angles measured by motion capture were used to determine the Mallet score, 79% of external rotation Mallet scores assigned by the physician were incorrectly categorized, with the physician always scoring the participant higher than predicted motion capture Mallet score.

Conclusions:

Both GH CBA and HT ER measures demonstrated substantial variability between measurement types, but only HT ER joint angles were significantly different. In addition, more than three-quarters of external rotation Mallet scores were misclassified by the physician. Motion capture measurements offer the benefit of less susceptibility to patients’ compensatory and/or out-of-plane movements and should be considered for clinical assessment of shoulder range of motion in children with BPBI. If motion capture is unavailable, the use of a goniometer provides more accurate clinical measures of shoulder motion than visual estimates and care should be taken to minimize and account for compensatory movement strategies.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV Case series
Prevertebral Soft Tissue Thickness of the Cervical Spine in Children: An Insensitive but Specific Aid in the Diagnosis of Occult Trauma
Authors: Karlin Lawrence I. , Jordan Eric M. , Miller Patricia E. , Shore Benjamin J.
Published: July 2022

Background:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the sensitivity and specificity of current cervical prevertebral soft tissue swelling (PVST) values in a cohort of children with known cervical fractures or dislocations.

Methods:

Forty two children (average age 11.9, range 1.4 to 17.0 y) with documented cervical spine injury and 61 children (average age 11.9, range 0.5 to 17.9 y) with cervical pain but no injury were reviewed (January 2004 to December 2015). PVST was measured on lateral cervical radiographs at C2, C3, and C6. Patients were stratified by age (0 to 2 y, 3 to 6 y, 7 to 10 y, 11 to 15 y, and 16 y and above). The Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare PVST measurements at each spine level across injury and noninjury cohorts. Sensitivity and specificity were estimated to assess the ability of abnormal reference values to detect when a true injury was present. In addition, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were also estimated.

Results:

The majority of c-spine injuries (31/42; 76%) involved bony fracture and 57% (24/42) were treated with a collar or brace. Comparison of PVST measurement found no difference at C2 (P=0.07), C3 (P=0.07), or at C6 (P=0.99) across injury and non-injury cohorts. Sensitivity was poor at single-level measures for C2 (26%), C3 (31%), and C6 (24%), while specificity was relatively high (92%, 87%, and 79%, respectively). When an increased value at either C2 or C3 indicated injury, sensitivity increased to 36%, and when an increased measurement at just one of the 3 measured levels indicated injury, the sensitivity increased to 48%, while the specificity decreased to 72%. While retropharyngeal measures were more likely to detect injury than retrotracheal, C6 alone was increased in 5 of the 20 injury patients.

Conclusions:

PVST measurements exhibit poor sensitivity but good specificity as indicators for the diagnosis of occult cervical trauma in children. Negative values do not exclude injury; positive values suggest further evaluation.

Levels of Evidence:

Level III
Barriers to Discharge After Hip Reconstruction Surgery in Non-ambulatory Children With Neurological Complex Chronic Conditions
Authors: Flaugh Rachel A. , Shea Jodie , Difazio Rachel L. , Berry Jay G. , Miller Patricia E. , Lawler Kathleen , Matheney Travis H. , Snyder Brian D. , Shore Benjamin J.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Hip reconstruction surgery in patients with neurological complex chronic conditions (CCC) is associated with prolonged hospitalization and extensive resource utilization. This population is vulnerable to cognitive, developmental, and medical comorbidities which can increase length of stay (LOS). The aims of this study were to characterize barriers to discharge for a cohort of children with neurological CCC undergoing hip reconstruction surgery and to identify patient risk factors for prolonged hospitalization and delayed discharge.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review of nonambulatory patients with neurological CCC undergoing hip reconstruction surgery between 2007-2016 was conducted. Hospitalization ≥1 day past medical clearance was characterized as delayed discharge. Barriers were defined as unresolved issues at the time of medical clearance and categorized as pertaining to the caregiver and patient education, durable medical equipment, postdischarge transportation/placement, and patient care needs.

Results:

The cohort of 116 patients was 53% male, 16% non–English speaking, and 49% Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) V with the mean age at surgery of 9.1±3.64 years. Median time from admission to medical clearance was 5 days with median LOS of 6 days. Approximately three-quarters of patients experienced delayed discharge (73%) with barriers identified for 74% of delays. Most prevalent barriers involved education (30%) and durable medical equipment (29%). Postdischarge transportation and placement accounted for 26% of barriers and 3.5 times longer delays (P<0.001). Factors associated with delayed discharge included increased medical comorbidities (P<0.05) and GMFCS V (P<0.001). Longer LOS and medical clearance times were found for female (P=0.005), older age (P<0.001), bilateral surgery (P=0.009), GMFCS V (P=0.003), and non–English-speaking patients (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

Patients with neurological CCC frequently encounter postoperative barriers contributing to increased LOS and delayed discharge. Patients that may be at higher risk for prolonged hospitalization and greater resource utilization include those who are female sex, adolescent, GMFCS V, non–English speaking, have additional comorbidities, and are undergoing bilateral surgery. Standardized preoperative assessment of educational needs, perioperative equipment requirements, and posthospital transportation may decrease the LOS, reduce caregiver and patient burden/distress, cost, and ultimately reduce variation in care delivery.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, Retrospective Case Series.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Scalp Arising in a Site of Synthetic Hair Grafts
Authors: Maitani Kosuke , Kadowaki Miki , Yasuhara Yumiko , Yamaguchi Shunichi , Kubo Tateki
Published: July 2022

Synthetic hair implantation was developed in the 1970s and initially gained popularity until major cutaneous complications, such as facial swelling, severe dermatitis, recurrent cellulitis, and cicatricial alopecia, became an issue. In particular, the procedure has been suggested to have a possible causal relationship with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). This article describes the third reported case in the English literature of SCC arising in a site of synthetic hair grafts. The patient was an 80-year-old man with a prominent verrucous tumor in the parietal region; he had undergone synthetic hair implantation for the past 28 years. The pathological diagnosis of SCC was made by dermal punch biopsy, and computed tomography images revealed cranial osteolytic changes, with possible direct dural tumor invasion. Extensive resection of the tumor and reconstruction were performed following downsizing radiotherapy. The protruding tumor was excised with the adjacent portion of the parietal bone. Several synthetic hair grafts were found stuck in the cranium. The defect area was reconstructed with a synthetic bone material and a free latissimus dorsi muscle flap with skin graft. The pathological examination revealed well-differentiated SCC surrounded by numerous synthetic hair grafts inducing inflammatory cell infiltration and severe cicatrizing fibrous changes. The postoperative course was uneventful, and no recurrence or metastasis was observed at 9 months postoperatively.
VALUABLE APPLICATION OF THE β-d-GLUCAN TESTING OF INTRAOCULAR FLUID FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF FUNGAL ENDOPHTHALMITIS
Authors: Chen Li , Feng Jing , Hu Xiaofeng , Bao Han , Luan Fuxiao , Tao Yong
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate the value of the β-d-glucan (BDG) testing of intraocular fluid for the diagnosis of fungal endophthalmitis (FE).

Methods:

Twenty patients (22 eyes) with FE were diagnosed using both culture and nonculture methods. Intraocular fluid was collected for BDG testing, including 22 eyes of FE and 55 eyes of control group. Under different BDG cutoff points as the test-positives, the BDG sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for FE were analyzed.

Results:

The BDG testing value was 1,022.78 ± 1,362.40 pg/mL in the FE group, significantly higher than that of the control group (105.0 ± 180.80 pg/mL, P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.885 (95% confidence interval, 0.793–0.978; P < 0.001). With the prespecified BDG cutoff 107.83 pg/ml as the test-positive, sensitivity was 81.8%, specificity was 87.5%, and the Youden index was 0.693. When the BDG cutoff was depicted as 202.05 pg/mL, sensitivity reduced to 77.3%, specificity increased at 95.8%, and the Youden index reached the highest value of 0.731.

Conclusions:

β-d-glucan testing of intraocular fluid demonstrated good sensitivity and specificity regarding the diagnosis of FE, which can provide earlier diagnosis to achieve better outcomes.
Harmonizing factor assay-related testing performed in a large laboratory network
Authors: Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Mohammed Soma , Vong Ronny , Chapman Kent , Swanepoel Priscilla , Kershaw Geoffrey , Cai Nancy , Just Sarah , Connelly Lynne , Brighton Timothy , Pasalic Leonardo
Published: July 2022

Coagulation factor testing is commonly performed within haemostasis laboratories, either to assess for bleeding disorders, such as haemophilia, or to investigate unexplained prolongation in routine coagulation assays. The aim of this evaluation was to harmonize procedures and normal reference ranges (NRRs) for investigation of coagulation factors on the ACL TOP 50 family of instruments in a large laboratory network. We employed comparative evaluations using newly installed ACL TOPs 550 and 750 and HemosIL reagents vs. existing ‘reference’ instrumentation and reagents, predominantly Stago and Siemens, as well as assessment of factor sensitivity in routine coagulation assays, prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). Also, establishment of coagulation factor NRRs using normal plasma samples. HemosIL factor assays showed good comparability with the existing reference methods (R > 0.9). Factor sensitivity for PT and APTT assays were acceptable at around 30 U/dl. NRRs were established and harmonized across the laboratory network. This evaluation of factor testing on ACL TOP 50 Family instruments identified overall acceptable performance using Werfen reagents and enabled harmonization of coagulation factor testing in our large network.
Overall and repeated measures agreement between brachial-femoral and carotid-femoral measures of pulse wave velocity in young and healthy individuals
Authors: Poles Jillian , Burnet Kathryn , Kelsch Elizabeth , Heffernan Kevin S. , Meyer Michelle L. , Kowalsky Robert J. , Barone Gibbs Bethany , Stoner Lee
Published: July 2022

Background

Carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity (cfPWV) is the gold standard measure of arterial stiffness and independently predicts cardiovascular disease. However, obtaining cfPWV requires technical precision and can be difficult in some populations. Brachial-femoral PWV (bfPWV) is a simpler alternative, but there is limited research comparing the two measures. For physiological studies, it is important to know how well the measures agree at rest, and to what extent changes in the measures correspond after perturbation.

Objective

To assess the overall and repeated measures agreement between cfPWV and bfPWV.

Methods

cfPWV and bfPWV were measured in the supine and seated positions, both before and after a 3-h bout of prolonged sitting. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for overall agreement was calculated using the random variance components from linear mixed-model regression. Repeated measures agreement (change in cfPWV vs. change in bfPWV) was calculated using repeated measures correlation.

Results

Complete data from 18 subjects (22.6 ± 3.1 years old, 33% female) were included in the analysis. There was strong (ICC ≥ 0.70) overall agreement (ICC, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.60–0.85) and very strong (ICC ≥ 0.90) repeated measures agreement (ICC, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.84–0.94) between cfPWV and bfPWV.

Discussion

The current findings indicate strong overall agreement and very strong repeated measures agreement between bfPWV and cfPWV. bfPWV is a user-friendly alternative method that agrees with cfPWV-based assessments of central arterial stiffness.
Study on the mechanism of Gualou Xiebai Guizhi decoction (GLXBGZD) in the treatment of coronary heart disease based on network pharmacology
Authors: Teng Chao , Wang Yong , Pang Songhai , Wei Xiaotong , Liu Xiangzhen
Published: July 2022

Background:

This study aims to analyze the mechanism of Gualou Xiebai Guizhi decoction (GLXBGZD) in treating coronary heart disease (CHD) utilizing network pharmacology.

Methods:

The GLXBGZD effective components were searched on the pharmacological database platform of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacol, and its potential target was predicted. The Online Mendelian Inheritance obtained CHD disease target in Man and GeneCards database. The Venn map of the intersection target for GLXBGZD and CHD was constructed by using Venn online website. The “drug-component-target-disease” network map was constructed by Cytoscape 3.7.2 software. The DAVID online platform was used to analyze the function of Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) at the intersection of targets of drugs and diseases.

Results:

A total of 27 articles were searched for GLXBGZD, including 111 potential targets, 5521 disease targets, 100 drug and disease intersection targets. The core target network map shows that Interleukin (IL)-6, TNF, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFA), TP53, EGF, JUN, MAPK1, Catalase (CAT), and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) may be the key targets in CHD therapy. GO functional enrichment analysis revealed that the biological functions of GLXBGZD involved biological processes such as response to drugs, positive regulation of nitric oxide biosynthesis process, and response to hypoxia. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that GLXBGZD might participate in CHD treatment through Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), Tumor necrosis factor (TNF), PhosphoInositide-3 Kinase--Threonine protein kinase (PI3K-Akt), and the calcium signal pathway.

Conclusions:

This study reveals that the GLXBGZD mechanism in CHD treatment has the characteristics of multi-components, multi-targets, and multi-pathways, which provides a theoretical basis for its clinical application and subsequent experimental verification.
Association of sorting and assembly machinery component 50 homolog gene polymorphisms with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease susceptibility
Authors: Qiao Ming , Yang Jian-hua , Zhu Yi , Hu Jun-ping
Published: July 2022

Background:

Sorting and assembly machinery component 50 homolog (SAMM50) gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been connected with the susceptibility of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but with inconsistent results across the current evidence. The present work was schemed to explore the association between SAMM50 gene SNPs and NAFLD vulnerability via meta-analysis.

Methods:

PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang were retrieved for eligible literature previous to June 10, 2021. The odds ratios (ORs) of the dichotomic variables and the standardized mean difference of quantitative variables with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were computed to evaluate the strength of the associations. The quality of included studies was assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS).

Results:

In total, 8 case-control studies encompassing 6297 NAFLD patients and 7306 disease-free controls in this meta-analysis. Ultimately, this analysis included 8, 6, and 5 studies for rs2143571, rs3761472, and rs738491 polymorphisms respectively. The pooled data revealed that the 3 polymorphisms had conspicuous associations with NAFLD susceptibility: rs2143571, A vs. G, OR=1.51, 95% CI, 1.37–1.66, P < .01; rs3761472, A vs. G, OR=1.50, 95% CI, 1.35–1.67, P < .01; rs738491, A vs. G, OR=1.51, 95% CI, 1.40–1.63, P < .01.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis suggests that rs2143571, rs3761472, and rs738491 polymorphisms of the SAMM50 gene are appreciably associated with augmented risk of NAFLD vulnerability. It will provide the latest evidence to support the susceptibility of SAMM50 gene polymorphisms and NAFLD, and provide strategies for the prevention and treatment of NAFLD.
Spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome in a patient with accelerated phase chronic myeloid leukemia treated successfully with rasburicase
Authors: Al-Mashdali Abdulrahman F. , Yassin Mohamed A.
Published: July 2022

Rationale:

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) is an oncological emergency that occurs due to diffuse tumor cell destruction with the massive release of intracellular electrolytes. Spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome (STLS) is the development of TLS before the commencement of chemotherapy. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reported cases of STLS in the chronic or accelerated phase of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

Patient concerns:

A 37-year-old woman of Arabic descent with a history of CML presented with a 3-day history of nausea and abdominal pain. She had not started any new treatment for CML within the last 3 months of presentation.

Diagnosis:

The patient was diagnosed with hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, and acute kidney injury. A peripheral blood smear confirmed the accelerated CML phase. Our patient met the criteria for clinical TLS, specifically, STLS. She was also diagnosed with autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Interventions:

The patient was started on intravenous normal saline (200 mL/h) and rasburicase (6 mg/d). In addition, hydroxyurea was used as a cytoreductive agent.

Outcomes:

The creatinine level returned to normal within 48 hours of rasburicase initiation.

Lessons:

Any patient with hematological malignancy should be monitored for TLS even before the initiation of chemotherapy. The exact mechanism of spontaneous TLS remains unknown, and further studies are needed to explain the pathophysiology of this condition. Rapid initiation of rasburicase, in addition to vigorous hydration, is effective in the treatment of acute kidney injury associated with TLS.
Wernicke encephalopathy after sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Al-Mashdali Abdulrahman F. , Alkailani Yaman I. , Elmudathir Ahmed M. , Elhams Mohamed M.
Published: July 2022

Rationale:

Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a recognized complication of bariatric surgery. WE is characterized by the classic triad of ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and acute confusion due to thiamine deficiency. Bariatric surgery has complications in the form of vitamin deficiencies, and thiamine deficiency following bariatric surgery can present as WE. However, WE after sleeve gastrectomy is rarely observed in clinical practice.

Patient concerns:

A 24-year-old man presented to our hospital with a 3-week history of vomiting, diplopia, and unsteady gait. He also noticed problems in his memory and loss of concentration. He had undergone sleeve gastrectomy 3 months prior to presentation.

Diagnoses:

The patient was diagnosed with bilateral abducent nerve palsy, horizontal nystagmus, and ataxic gait. Based on the typical clinical manifestations and history of sleeve gastrectomy, the patient was diagnosed with WE. In addition, the magnetic resonance imaging of brain was consistent with WE.

Intervention:

The patient received a 7-day course of intravenous thiamine and other vitamin supplements.

Outcome:

Significant improvement in neurological manifestations after parenteral thiamine administration.

Lessons:

Clinicians should be aware that WE is a complication of bariatric surgery. Prompt administration of parenteral thiamine is effective in treating such conditions.