bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Possible atezolizumab-associated acute kidney injury and immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Yılmaz Ali , Mirili Cem , Bilici Mehmet , Tekin Salim Başol
Published: April 2020

Introduction

The immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which are used to activate the immune system and stimulate anti-tumor activity, are preferred in many cancers. Atezolizumab acts by blocking programmed cell death ligand (PD-L1) and may cause immune hyperstimulation in healthy tissues like other ICIs, resulting in immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Hepatitis, colitis, pneumonitis, hypophysitis, hypothyroidism, rash, musculoskeletal problems are the most common irAEs, and on the other hand, acute kidney injury (AKI) and immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) are infrequent.

Case report

We present a case with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with atezolizumab 1200 mg every three weeks for third-line treatment. The patient was admitted with fatigue and back pain. The patient’s complaints started one week after the first dose of atezolizumab. The patient had renal injury and thrombocytopenia and was diagnosed with drug-induced AKI and ITP.

Management and outcome

After platelet replacement, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and steroid therapy, the patient whose platelet count was normalized and creatinine level regressed was discharged, and routine follow-up continues.

Discussion

Here, we present a case with NSCLC treated with atezolizumab and with drug-induced ITP and AKI association. Given that atezolizumab and other immune checkpoint inhibitors are being utilized in the treatment of cancers, physicians should be aware of the irAEs, including the AKI and ITP.
Impact of Microcredit on Second Generation Borrowers in Bangladesh: Revisited
Authors: Ara Laila Arjuman , Rahman Mohammad Masudur , Kim Chanwahn
Published: April 2020

This article investigates the economic impact of continuing borrowers’ participation in the microcredit programme on poverty eradication in Bangladesh. A panel data set was collected through a field survey for the years 2013–2016 to identify the impact of a microcredit programme on continuous participation borrowers. The propensity score matching (PSM) method is used to eliminate selection bias and the difference-in-difference (DID) model is applied for the empirical analysis. The findings of the study demonstrate that more benefits are realized from continued participants compared to discontinued participants.

JEL: C83, D14, G21, O12
Alcoholic beverage preferences among teenagers in Finland before and after the 2018 alcohol law change
Authors: Lintonen Tomi , Ahtinen Suvi , Konu Anne
Published: April 2020

Aims:

The alcohol law change in Finland in the beginning of 2018 was forecast to shift alcohol sales from alcohol monopoly stores to grocery stores. The trend of declining adolescent alcohol use was predicted to end. This study aimed to provide a more detailed view on under-age drinking change through analysing alcoholic beverage use preferences among 14 and 16 year olds in Finland from 2017 to 2019.

Methods:

Nationally representative surveys of adolescent health behaviours in Finland from 2017 ( n = 2451) and 2019 ( n = 2119) among 14 and 16 year olds were analysed using cross-tabulations and logistic regression modelling. Beverage data were coded from an open-ended question concerning the latest drinking occasion.

Results:

The proportion of 14 and 16-year-old girls reporting drinking alcohol was 41% in 2017 and 45% in 2019. The corresponding proportions among boys were 39% in 2017 and 43% in 2019. The share of alcohol consumed in the form of beer, alcopops and cider increased among girls from 55% to 75%, but the apparent increase among boys from 69% to 76% was not statistically significant. The only beverage type category that increased in popularity from the year 2017 to 2019 was alcopops.

Conclusions:

The law change bringing strong alcopops, beer and cider into grocery stores increased their consumption – especially among the under-aged. Comprehensive measures including taxation, restrictions on advertising and sales affecting the population total consumption are also likely to remain the keys to reducing alcohol consumption among adolescents. In addition, effective age-limit control and sanctions against neglecting age-restriction enforcement are needed.
Conspiracy theories and reasonable pluralism
Authors: Cíbik Matej , Hardoš Pavol
Published: April 2020

The popularity of conspiracy theories poses a clear challenge for contemporary liberal democracies. Conspiracy theories undermine rational debate, spread dangerous falsehoods and threaten social cohesion. However, any possible public policy response, which would try to contain their spread, needs to respect the liberal commitment to protect pluralism and free speech. A successful justification of such a policy must therefore: 1) clearly identify the problematic class of conspiracy theories; and 2) clarify the grounds on which the state is justified in acting against them. This article argues that the prevailing epistemic approaches to conspiracy theorizing cannot fulfil these criteria. Defining conspiracy theories by their flaws in reasoning, questionable coherence or factual mistakes can neither sharply distinguish problematic conspiracy theories from other, non-problematic worldviews nor justify state action. Thus, we propose to understand conspiracy theories through their ethical unreasonableness. We hold that containment of conspiracy theories is justifiable insofar as they undermine the liberal-democratic ideals of mutual respect, freedom and equality. We then show that such ‘ethical’ criteria for conspiracy theories can be sufficiently robust and clear-cut so that they can serve as a useful guide for public policy.
Systematic Literature Review of Interventions for Promoting Postmortem Organ Donation From Social Marketing Perspective
Authors: Čož Sinja , Kamin Tanja
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

This systematic review examines the factors that make some interventions promoting postmortem organ donation more successful and more likely to change behaviors than others. We analyzed the effectiveness of different types of interventions for promoting postmortem organ donation against the criteria identified by previous research in other health-related areas as the most important for designing effective behavior change programs. We observed a correlation between the use of social marketing benchmarks and the reported success of intervention goals.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review of all articles describing interventions promoting postmortem organ donation published in scientific journals between January 2008 and November 2018. We analyzed these articles against the 7 social marketing benchmark criteria using a coding questioner.

Findings:

The analysis revealed a correlation between the use of social marketing benchmark criteria in an intervention’s design and the success of the intervention. Interventions that employed 6 or 7 criteria reported successful achievement of all intervention objectives. We observed a decrease in success rates when fewer than 6 social marketing benchmark criteria were included in the intervention design.

Discussion:

The findings suggest that a social marketing approach may prove useful to efforts to promote postmortem organ donation. More social marketing benchmark criteria should be included in the design and implementation of interventions promoting postmortem organ donation.
The Etiology and Prognosis of Delayed Postoperative Leukocytosis in Lung Transplant Recipients
Authors: Izhakian Shimon , Wasser Walter G. , Vainshelboim Baruch , Unterman Avraham , Heching Moshe , Gorelik Oleg , Kramer Mordechai R.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Leukocytosis (white blood cell count >12 000/µL) in the delayed postoperative period (4-7 days) after lung transplantation is due to diverse etiologies. We aimed to describe the etiologies of delayed postoperative leukocytosis in lung transplant recipients and to evaluate the association of leukocytosis causes with short-term survival.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of 274 lung transplantations performed in our institution during 2006 to 2013.

Results:

Delayed postoperative leukocytosis was seen in 159 (58.0%) of lung transplant recipients. In 57 (35.8%) of them, the etiology of the leukocytosis was not identified. The etiologies of leukocytosis that were identified were infection (n = 39), second surgery, acute rejection (n = 12), primary graft dysfunction (n = 3), multiple etiologies (n = 17), and other causes (n = 10). On multivariate analysis, delayed postoperative leukocytosis was one of the variables that most significantly associated with decreased survival in the entire sample (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.52, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-2.29, P = .040). On additional analysis for mortality assessing each leukocytosis subgroup, the data were acute graft rejection (HR = 8.21, 95% CI: 4.09-16.49, P < .001), second surgery (HR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.08-3.90, P = .020), primary graft dysfunction (HR = 2.72, 95% CI: 0.65-11.33, P = .169), other causes (HR = 1.30, 95% CI: 0.47-3.62, P = .620), and unknown etiology (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.54-1.62, P = .800).

Conclusions:

Delayed post-lung transplant leukocytosis is a poor prognostic sign, especially when attributed to acute graft rejection, infection, and multiple etiologies. In the absence of an identifiable etiology, it can be attributed to postoperative reactive stress, is not associated with increased mortality, and likely does not warrant further diagnostic investigation.
CT-Based Quantitative Analysis for Pathological Features Associated With Postoperative Recurrence and Potential Application Upon Artificial Intelligence: A Narrative Review With a Focus on Chronic Subdural Hematomas
Authors: Kung Woon-Man , Lin Muh-Shi
Published: April 2020

Chronic subdural hematomas (CSDHs) frequently affect the elderly population. The postoperative recurrence rate of CSDHs is high, ranging from 3% to 20%. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses have been explored to investigate the mechanisms underlying postoperative recurrence. We surveyed the pathophysiology of CSDHs and analyzed the relative factors influencing postoperative recurrence. Here, we summarize various qualitative methods documented in the literature and present our unique computer-assisted quantitative method, published previously, to assess postoperative recurrence. Imaging features of CSDHs, based on qualitative analysis related to postoperative high recurrence rate, such as abundant vascularity, neomembrane formation, and patent subdural space, could be clearly observed using the proposed quantitative analysis methods in terms of mean hematoma density, brain re-expansion rate, hematoma volume, average distance of subdural space, and brain shifting. Finally, artificial intelligence (AI) device types and applications in current health care are briefly outlined. We conclude that the potential applications of AI techniques can be integrated to the proposed quantitative analysis method to accomplish speedy execution and accurate prediction for postoperative outcomes in the management of CSDHs.
Coach-assessed skill learning progress of youth soccer players correlates with earlier childhood practice in other sports
Authors: Güllich Arne , Cronauer Robin , Diehl Johannes , Gard Luca , Miller Christopher
Published: April 2020

The hypothesis that sport-specific skill learning is correlated with earlier childhood multi-sport practice experiences was empirically studied among youth soccer players. Fourteen youth soccer coaches (38.1 ± 12.0 years) evaluated 100 youth players (11.8 ± 0.7 years) regarding their progress in soccer-specific skill learning through the course of a one-year season. The players completed a questionnaire recording their earlier and current participation in coach-led practice and youth-led play in soccer and in other sports. Reliability of the coach rating and of players’ reported sport activities ranged 0.83 ≤  rtt ≤ 1.00. Analyses revealed that the progress of the youth players in soccer-specific skill learning was not significantly correlated with their earlier or current amounts of coach-led soccer practice (–0.07 ≤  rs ≤ 0.07), youth-led soccer play (0.01 ≤  rs ≤ 0.08), or youth-led play in other sports (0.13 ≤  rs ≤ 0.22). Progress in soccer-specific skill learning was significantly correlated with the accumulated years and hours of earlier (but not current) coach-led practice in other sports (0.54 ≤  rs ≤ 0.57). A binary logistic regression accurately classified 83% of players with better and poorer learning progress based on earlier years and hours of practice in other sports. The observations suggest that earlier practice experiences in other sports had a lagged effect in interaction with later soccer practice and facilitated skill learning in soccer-specific practice.
The Importance of Teaching History of Inequities in Public Health Programs
Authors: Fleming Paul J.
Published: April 2020

Learning the history of inequities is typically not a major part of public health degree programs but can be fundamental to truly understanding health inequities and identifying potential solutions. A historical perspective on inequities can help understand present-day inequities as constructed over time, provide needed context for community engagement efforts, and help identify the system of advantages and disadvantages based on race, gender, and class that have been built into U.S. society. There are many ways to integrate a historical perspective on inequities into public health degree programs, and this article provides an example course on historical roots of health inequities. To more effectively reduce health inequities, it is imperative that Schools and Programs of Public Health adopt curriculum content to provide public health professionals and researchers a much-needed historical perspective on inequities.
Adaptation of Coping Effectiveness Training for Patients With Heart Failure and Patient-Reported Experience of the Intervention
Authors: Bose Catarina Nahlén , Saboonchi Fredrik , Persson Hans , Björling Gunilla , Elfström Magnus L
Published: April 2020

Although patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) often experience psychological distress, psychosocial aspects are not an integral part of their treatment and care. The aim is to describe the adaptation of Coping Effectiveness Training for patients with CHF and the participants’ reported experiences. The intervention workbook and manual were translated into Swedish and adapted for patients with CHF. Patient-reported experience from 33 of 35 participants, that had completed the psychosocial intervention, was measured with an evaluation form consisting of closed and open-ended questions. Most participants thought they benefited from the intervention, were pleased with the structure and did not want to add anything to the program. The benefits experienced were learning how to cope with the illness and meeting other people to share and discuss experiences. There was a variation concerning the group process of how much direction should be given during the discussions. Overall, unique data from patient-reported experience measure showed that the participants were satisfied with the psychosocial intervention, applied for the first time to patients with CHF.
Video directly observed therapy for supporting and monitoring adherence to tuberculosis treatment in Uganda: a pilot cohort study
Authors: Sekandi Juliet N. , Buregyeya Esther , Zalwango Sarah , Dobbin Kevin K. , Atuyambe Lynn , Nakkonde Damalie , Turinawe Julius , Tucker Emma G. , Olowookere Shade , Turyahabwe Stavia , Garfein Richard S.
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Nonadherence to treatment remains an obstacle to tuberculosis (TB) control worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using video directly observed therapy (VDOT) for supporting TB treatment adherence in Uganda.

Methods

From May to December 2018, we conducted a pilot cohort study at a TB clinic in Kampala City. We enrolled patients aged 18–65 years with ≥3 months remaining of their TB treatment. Participants were trained to use a smartphone app to record videos of medication intake and submit them to a secured system. Trained health workers logged into the system to watch the submitted videos. The primary outcome was adherence measured as the fraction of expected doses observed (FEDO). In a secondary analysis, we examined differences in FEDO by sex, age, phone ownership, duration of follow-up, reasons for missed videos and patients' satisfaction at study exit.

Results

Of 52 patients enrolled, 50 were analysed. 28 (56%) were male, the mean age was 31 years (range 19–50 years) and 35 (70%) owned smartphones. Of the 5150 videos expected, 4231 (82.2%) were received. The median FEDO was 85% (interquartile range 66%–94%) and this significantly differed by follow-up duration. Phone malfunction, uncharged battery and VDOT app malfunctions were the commonest reasons for missed videos. 92% of patients reported being very satisfied with using VDOT.

Conclusion

VDOT was feasible and acceptable for monitoring and supporting TB treatment. It resulted in high levels of adherence, suggesting that digital technology holds promise in improving patient monitoring in Uganda.
Minocycline prevents and repairs the skin disorder associated with afatinib, one of the epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sano Kazumi , Nakadate Kazuhiko , Hanada Kazuhiko
Published: April 2020

Background

While epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) exert a breakthrough effect, the incidence of skin disorders as a side effect has significantly reduced patients’ quality of life. This study aimed to develop a treatment for inflammatory ulcers as one of the side effects of afatinib (Giotrif®), a second-generation EGFR-TKI, and established a skin disorder mouse model to investigate the protective effect of minocycline.

Methods

First, under inhalation anesthesia with isoflurane, the back of a male ddy mouse was shaved, and afatinib petrolatum was applied alone or in combination with minocycline to observe the state of the skin and measure transepidermal water transpiration (TEWL). Next, afatinib was administered orally to mice, and minocycline petrolatum was applied to observe whether the skin disorder was prevented and its effect on repair of the skin disorder.

Results

Skin injury occurred on the back of the mouse following afatinib (1 mg/g in petrolatum) application, and scab formation was observed. Application of minocycline prevented and improved the skin disorder caused by afatinib. When the minocycline-petrolatum mixture was applied to the mouse that developed the skin disorder, a significant improvement in TEWL was observed, and skin repair was observed macroscopically.

Conclusions

These results suggest that minocycline petrolatum applied locally prevents and repairs afatinib-induced skin disorders of non-small cell lung cancer patients. Histological examination of skin has provided insights into the mechanism of the occurrence of afatinib-related skin disorder and suggested the efficacy of minocycline topical application in clinical practice.
TADsplimer reveals splits and mergers of topologically associating domains for epigenetic regulation of transcription
Authors: Wang Guangyu , Meng Qingshu , Xia Bo , Zhang Shuo , Lv Jie , Zhao Dongyu , Li Yanqiang , Wang Xin , Zhang Lili , Cooke John P. , Cao Qi , Chen Kaifu
Published: April 2020

We present TADsplimer, the first computational tool to systematically detect topologically associating domain (TAD) splits and mergers across the genome between Hi-C samples. TADsplimer recaptures splits and mergers of TADs with high accuracy in simulation analyses and defines hundreds of TAD splits and mergers between pairs of different cell types, such as endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Our work reveals a key role for TAD remodeling in epigenetic regulation of transcription and delivers the first tool for the community to perform dynamic analysis of TAD splits and mergers in numerous biological and disease models.
ERP and oscillatory differences in overweight/obese and normal-weight adolescents in response to food stimuli
Authors: Biehl Stefanie C. , Keil Julian , Naumann Eva , Svaldi Jennifer
Published: April 2020

Background

Findings are mixed regarding the association of electroencephalographic (EEG) attentional bias measures and body weight, with few studies measuring food craving or intake and no study reporting oscillatory measures.

Methods

EEG data were collected while 28 satiated adolescents (14 overweight/obese) viewed pictures of neutral, low-calorie food, and high-calorie food stimuli and rated their desire to eat, before having access to high-calorie snacks.

Results

Unlike normal-weight adolescents, overweight/obese participants showed similar P300 amplitudes for high- and low-calorie food, and strongest event-related alpha band desynchronization for low-calorie stimuli. P300 amplitudes and state craving for low-calorie food furthermore predicted snack intake in this group.

Conclusions

The current research focus in overweight/obesity might need to be extended to include low-calorie food. While all participants showed an attentional bias for high-calorie food, it was the processing of low-calorie food which distinguished the two weight groups on measures of neural activity and which was associated with snack food intake in the overweight/obese group.
The association of genetic polymorphisms in interleukin-1 receptors type 1 and type 2 with age-related hearing impairment in a Taiwanese population: A case control study
Authors: Chang Ning-Chia , Yang Hua-Ling , Dai Chia-Yen , Lin Wen-Yi , Wang Hsun-Mo , Chien Chen-Yu , Ho Kuen-Yao
Published: April 2020

Background

Age-related hearing impairment (ARHI) is a major disability among the elder population. Chronic inflammation is an important factor in the development of ARHI. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) plays a key role in inflammation and may be associated with ARHI. The aim of this study is to analyze the associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IL-1 receptor genes with ARHI in an elderly population in Taiwan.

Method

Participants ≥65 years of age were recruited for audiometric tests and genetic analyses. The bilateral pure-tone average (PTA) of high-tone hearing levels was calculated for ARHI evaluation. The associations of SNPs of the IL-1 receptor type 1 gene (IL1R1) (rs3917225 and rs2234650) and type 2 gene (IL1R2) (rs4141134 and rs2071008) with ARHI were analyzed in 182 ARHI-susceptible (case) and 176 ARHI-resistant (control) participants.

Results

The G allele of IL1R1 rs3917225 showed a decreased risk of ARHI after adjustments for sex, age, and noise exposure. The GG genotype of IL1R1 rs3917225 in all hereditary models and the TT genotype of IL1R2 rs2071008 in the recessive model also showed decreased risks of ARHI after adjustments.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that IL1R1 and IL1R2 polymorphisms may contribute to the decreased risk of ARHI in the elderly population.
Evaluation of the value of the VI-RADS scoring system in assessing muscle infiltration by bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Ziyong , Shang Yunyun , Luan Ting , Duan Yi , Wang Jiansong , Wang Haifeng , Hao Jingang
Published: April 2020

Background

The Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) was created in 2018, and a 5-point VI-RADS scoring system was proposed to determine whether the muscularis of the bladder has been infiltrated by tumor tissues.

Purpose

To verify the accuracy of the VI-RADS scoring system in predicting muscle-invasive bladder cancer and to explore its value in clinical application.

Materials and methods

A total of 220 patients with bladder cancer who underwent multiparameter magnetic resonance imaging from January 2017 to June 2019 were selected. Then, two radiologists with equivalent qualifications gave their diagnoses of bladder tumors on T2-weighted imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic contrast enhanced imaging. Meanwhile, the bladder tumor was also scored on the basis of the VI-RADS system; for multifocal tumors, the highest tumor load was selected for scoring. Furthermore, the final pathological results of the patients were unknown during the imaging diagnosis and scoring. Next, the VI-RADS score was compared with the pathological results after surgery, and the ability of the VI-RADS score to assess the degree of muscularis infiltration was finally analyzed.

Results

A total of 220 patients were included in our study, including 194 males and 26 females. Among them, the pathological results were 113 cases of muscle-invasive bladder cancer and 107 cases of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The results showed that there was a positive correlation between the pathological results and VI-RADS score (r = 0.821, P < 0.05). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the VI-RADS score was 0.960 (95% CI: 0.937, 0.983). When the VI-RADS score was above 3, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of predicting muscle-invasive bladder cancer were 82.3, 95.3 and 88.64%, respectively.

Conclusion

The VI-RADS scoring system has good diagnostic value in predicting the degree of tumor invasion and can be used to guide clinical decision-making and management.
The role of brain structural magnetic resonance imaging in the assessment of hippocampal subfields in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Saad Sameh Hany Sobhy , Alashwah Mohammad Mahmoud Alhousini , Alsafa Ashraf Abo , Dawoud Mahmoud A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Volumetric MR neuroimaging can visualize the pattern of hippocampal subfield atrophic changes in AD. This can be used as a biomarker in early diagnosis of AD and allow early treatment to improve memory, behavioral symptoms, and delay the cognitive deterioration. The aim of this work is to assess the role of the volumetric study of different hippocampal subfields as a post-processing technique of structural MR imaging in patients with Alzheimer’s disease of different severity of cognitive functions. The regional ethics committee approved the study and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. In the duration from 2016 to 2018, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 30 patients (17 males and 13 females) and 15 healthy elderly controls (9 males and 6 females) referred to the Radiodiagnosis Department from the Neuropsychiatry Department. Patients were diagnosed with AD by clinical examination and using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Clinical Dementia Rating scale (CDR) as a measure of general cognitive performance.

Results

CA1 and subiculum subfields were significantly reduced in size in patients with Alzheimer’s disease in relation to the age-matched control group (P < 0.05). This finding was positively correlated with the MMSE score and negatively correlated with CDR clinical tests. No significant atrophy was found among other hippocampal subfields in the patients’ group.

Conclusion

This study proposed a new approach to detect atrophy in hippocampal subfields, using MR volumetric study of high-resolution T1 images, that can be used as a biomarker in the diagnosis of AD patients and differentiating them from elderly control subjects which is important in early diagnosis of AD and hence the proper treatment to improve the prognosis of the cognitive function.
Lower extremity arterial calcifications assessed by multislice CT as a correlate to coronary artery disease
Authors: Aly Gamal Samir Gamal , Kassem Hussien Heshmat , Hashad Assem , Salem Mohammad Ali , Labib Dina , Baligh Essam
Published: April 2020

Background

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) frequently have concomitant coronary artery disease (CAD) and display a higher risk for myocardial infarction, stroke, and death due to cardiovascular events. In order to prevent cardiovascular events, there is an increasing interest in new markers of atherosclerosis. Vascular calcifications (VC) are often present in the early stages of atherogenesis and could be considered an early marker. The aim of this study is to correlate the extent of lower limbs, aortic, and coronary arterial calcification diagnosed by non-contrast multislice CT with the severity of coronary artery disease diagnosed by conventional coronary angiography.

Results

There is borderline significant association between CAD (Gensini score) and each of total lower limb and aorto-iliac calcifications. There is significant association between the number of diseased coronaries and lower limb calcifications. Also, there is significant association between the coronary artery calcifications and lower limb arterial calcifications (total and segmental).

Diabetes mellitus and hypertension are significantly associated with lower limb calcification (total, aorto-iliac, and infra-popliteal). Moreover, lower limb arterial calcifications (total and segmental) are positively correlated with increasing age.

Conclusion

Lower limb arterial calcifications, as diagnosed by non-contrast MSCT, is a noninvasive measure for evaluation of the atherosclerotic burden that correlate to the CAD; it can aid to refine risk stratification and the need for more aggressive preventive strategies.
Incidence of Anaphylaxis to Sugammadex in a Single-Center Cohort of 19,821 Patients
Authors: Burbridge Mark A.
Published: April 2020

Background:

Sugammadex is a modified cyclodextrin that is being increasingly used in anesthetic practice worldwide for the reversal of the aminosteroid neuromuscular blockers rocuronium and vecuronium. Its safety profile, however, is incompletely understood. One such aspect is the incidence of anaphylactic reactions that occur after its administration. While several case reports exist in the literature, there is a paucity of information on the actual incidence of anaphylactic reactions.

METHODS:

A single-center retrospective chart review identified patients who experienced anaphylaxis to sugammadex in the institutional electronic medical record system. These charts were then reviewed to determine whether the etiology of anaphylaxis was sugammadex administration.

RESULTS:

Two patients experienced anaphylaxis to sugammadex, which occurred in a single institution cohort of 19,821 patients who received 23,446 total doses. This rate is markedly lower than the 1/300 that the manufacturer’s package insert states and also lower than the 1/2500 that the only other large cohort study performed has reported.

CONCLUSIONS:

The incidence of anaphylaxis to sugammadex in this cohort of patients was 2 of 19,821 patients, who received a total of 23,446 doses.
Features of the Development of the Modern Child
Authors: Nekrasova I.
Published: April 2020

The realities of the modern world are constantly changing. The rapidity with which our lives undergo transformations is much higher than twenty or thirty years ago. In the recently departed twentieth century, the child developed in small society (family, yard company, pioneer organization) with a clear reference to a specific adult. Today, the child is put in a situation of broken ties and chaotic flow of information without structural and logical connections. Modern children are very different not only from those described in their writings I.G. Pestalozzi, Ya.A. Komenskiy and V.A. Sukhomlinsky, but also from their peers of the last decade of the twentieth century.
Substantiation of the Integrated Approach to Teaching the Adaptation Discipline “Psychology of Life-Resistance” for Students with Disability
Authors: Mihal'chi Ekaterina
Published: April 2020

The article provides a rationale for the approach to teaching adaptation course "Psychology of vitality" for persons with disabilities. The authors conducted a survey of students with psychophysical disorders and from a conditionally healthy group to study the effect of their physical form on their ability to cope with stress and difficult life situations. Among respondents from different health groups, assessments of their own resilience were determined; differences in the perception of their physical form; values of stress levels during the year on the Holmes-Ray scale are estimated. According to the results of the study, the authors came to the conclusion that in the educational process of people with disabilities, the adaptation discipline "Psychology of viability" should teach in an integrated form, combining psychological and physical modules, as well as a block on a healthy lifestyle.
Global trends in indications for total elbow arthroplasty: a systematic review of national registries
Authors: Macken Arno A. , Prkic Ante , Kodde Izaäk F. , Lans Jonathan , Chen Neal C. , Eygendaal Denise
Published: April 2020

National registries provide useful information in understanding outcomes of surgeries that have late sequelae, especially for rare operations such as total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). A systematic search was performed and data were compiled from the registries to compare total elbow arthroplasty outcomes and evaluate trends. We included six registries from Australia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom and Sweden. Inflammatory arthritis was the most common indication for total elbow arthroplasty, followed by acute fracture and osteoarthritis. When comparing 2000–2009 to 2010–2017 data, total elbow arthroplasty for inflammatory arthritis decreased and total elbow arthroplasty for fracture and osteoarthritis increased. There was an increase in the number of revision TEAs over this time period. The range of indications for total elbow arthroplasty is broadening; total elbow arthroplasty for acute trauma and osteoarthritis is becoming increasingly more common. However, inflammatory arthritis remains the most common indication in recent years. This change is accompanied by an increase in the incidence of revision surgery.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:215-220. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.190036
Slow light waveguides in topological valley photonic crystals
Authors: Yoshimi Hironobu , Yamaguchi Takuto , Ota Yasutomo , Arakawa Yasuhiko , Iwamoto Satoshi
Published: April 2020

Valley photonic crystals (VPhCs) are an attractive platform for the implementation of topologically protected optical waveguides in photonic integrated circuits (PICs). The realization of slow light modes in the topological waveguides may lead to further miniaturization and functionalization of the PICs. In this Letter, we report an approach to realize topological slow light waveguides in semiconductor-slab-based VPhCs. We show that a bearded interface of two topologically distinct VPhCs can support topological kink modes with large group indices over 100 within the topological bandgap. We numerically demonstrate robust light propagation in the topological slow light waveguide with large group indices of

∼

60

, even under the presence of sharp bends. Our work opens a novel route to implement topological slow light waveguides in a way compatible with current PIC technology.
Edge enhancement through scattering media enabled by optical wavefront shaping
Authors: Li Zihao , Yu Zhipeng , Hui Hui , Li Huanhao , Zhong Tianting , Liu Honglin , Lai Puxiang
Published: April 2020

Edge enhancement is a fundamental and important topic in imaging and image processing, as perception of edge is one of the keys to identify and comprehend the contents of an image. Edge enhancement can be performed in many ways, through hardware or computation. Existing methods, however, have been limited in free space or clear media for optical applications; in scattering media such as biological tissue, light is multiple scattered, and information is scrambled to a form of seemingly random speckles. Although desired, it is challenging to accomplish edge enhancement in the presence of multiple scattering. In this work, we introduce an implementation of optical wavefront shaping to achieve efficient edge enhancement through scattering media by a two-step operation. The first step is to acquire a hologram after the scattering medium, where information of the edge region is accurately encoded, while that of the nonedge region is intentionally encoded with inadequate accuracy. The second step is to decode the edge information by time-reversing the scattered light. The capability is demonstrated experimentally, and, further, the performance, as measured by the edge enhancement index (EI) and enhancement-to-noise ratio (ENR), can be controlled easily through tuning the beam ratio. EI and ENR can be reinforced by

∼
8.5

and

∼
263

folds, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that edge information of a spatial pattern can be extracted through strong turbidity, which can potentially enrich the comprehension of actual images obtained from a complex environment.
3D Hessian deconvolution of thick light-sheet z-stacks for high-contrast and high-SNR volumetric imaging
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Gou Dongzhou , Feng Fan , Zheng Ruyi , Du Ke , Yang Hongrun , Zhang Guangyi , Zhang Huitao , Tao Louis , Chen Liangyi , Mao Heng
Published: April 2020

Due to its ability of optical sectioning and low phototoxicity,

z

-stacking light-sheet microscopy has been the tool of choice for in vivo imaging of the zebrafish brain. To image the zebrafish brain with a large field of view, the thickness of the Gaussian beam inevitably becomes several times greater than the system depth of field (DOF), where the fluorescence distributions outside the DOF will also be collected, blurring the image. In this paper, we propose a 3D deblurring method, aiming to redistribute the measured intensity of each pixel in a light-sheet image to in situ voxels by 3D deconvolution. By introducing a Hessian regularization term to maintain the continuity of the neuron distribution and using a modified stripe-removal algorithm, the reconstructed

z

-stack images exhibit high contrast and a high signal-to-noise ratio. These performance characteristics can facilitate subsequent processing, such as 3D neuron registration, segmentation, and recognition.
Mitochondrial DNA control region diversity in Common Terns Sterna hirundo from Slovenia and Croatia
Authors: Svetličić Ida , Kralj Jelena , Martinović Miloš , Tome Davorin , Basle Tilen , Božić Luka , Škornik Iztok , Jurinović Luka , Galov Ana
Published: April 2020

63 Common Tern Sterna hirundo samples from Croatia and Slovenia were analysed with respect to their genetic diversity and differentiation. Samples originated from two freshwater populations (areas of the rivers Sava and Drava) and one coastal population (Sečovlje Salina). The molecular marker of choice was 709 bp long fragment of the mitochondrial control region, the fastest-evolving part of the mitochondrial genome. 21 haplotypes with 12 polymorphic sites were identified. Overall haplotype diversity was substantial and estimated at 0.8599, while the overall nucleotide diversity was low and estimated at 0.0025. Diversity indices were highest for the Drava population, followed by the Sava and the lowest for the Sečovlje population. Overall genetic structure was significantly low (Fst=0.0377) and attributed to the differences in haplotype frequencies between the populations. The high level of genetic diversity found in continental populations illustrates the importance of their habitats as reservoirs of genetic diversity and calls for their further protection and management.
Two decades of changes in spatial distribution of retail and commercial services: Czech experience
Authors: Šilhan Zdeněk , Kunc Josef
Published: April 2020

The aim of this paper is to introduce basic developmental consequences, changes, trends and the current situation in amenities through retail and commercial services in the rural areas of the Czech Republic. The example illustrated herein is the South Moravian Region. Methodically, the text is built on previous survey (2002), and on our own survey conducted in municipalities up to 3,000 inhabitants of the South Moravian Region in 2018 (n = 355). There are semi-structured interviews (n = 18) that link back to these surveys. The data obtained was processed by the methods of statistical and graphical analysis, comparison, interpretation and synthesis. The paper concludes that since 2002, commercial amenities have experienced remarkably negative development. The smaller municipalities in the periphery have encountered the greatest decline, but stagnation is also seen in the suburban areas of Brno. From among types of commercial amenities, the ones most weakened were specialized shops, which could no longer compete with large retail chains. Almost a fourth of municipalities support commercial trade and services, mainly through subsidies or lowered rent. The regions also provide subsidies. Even simplifying red tape or providing tax relief on the part of the public sector would support civic amenities. Another key may be retaining young and educated people in municipalities where they will live and work. Contributing to this could be not only developing infrastructure in municipalities, but also for example the next wave of digitalization and introduction of stable, high-speed Internet service in rural areas.
RASGRF1 in CRF cells controls the early adolescent female response to repeated stress
Authors: Jin Shan-xue , Dickson David A , Maguire Jamie , Feig Larry A
Published: April 2020

RASGRF1 (GRF1) is a calcium-stimulated guanine-nucleotide exchange factor that activates RAS and RAC GTPases. In hippocampus neurons, it mediates the action of NMDA and calcium-permeable AMPA glutamate receptors on specific forms of synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory in both male and female mice. Recently, we showed GRF1 also regulates the HPA axis response to restraint stress, but only in female mice before puberty. In particular, we found that after 7 days of restraint stress (7DRS) (30 min/day) both elevated serum CORT levels and induction of an anxiolytic phenotype normally observed in early adolescent (EA) female mice are blocked in GRF1-knockout mice. In contrast, no effects were observed in EA male or adult females. Here, we show this phenotype is due, at least in part, to GRF1 loss in CRF cells of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, as GRF1 knockout specifically in these cells suppressed 7DRS-induced elevation of serum CORT levels specifically in EA females, but only down to levels found in comparably stressed EA males. Nevertheless, it still completely blocked the 7DRS-induced anxiolytic phenotype observed in EA females. Interestingly, loss of GRF1 in CRF cells had no effect after only three restraint stress exposures, implying a role for GRF1 in 7DRS stress-induced plasticity of CRF cells that appears to be specific to EA female mice. Overall, these findings indicate that GRF1 in CRF cells makes a key contribution to the distinct response EA females display to repeated stress.
Efficiency of Minimized Circuits of a Heart Roller Pump on Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome and Multiorgan Effects in a Rat Model
Authors: Bayrak Serdar , Gencpinar Tugra , Akkaya Gokmen , Bilen Çağatay , Akokay Pınar , Dereli Nuran , Yılmaz Osman , Metin Kıvanc
Published: April 2020

Background: The aim of this study is to compare the effects of tubing length on systemic inflammatory response syndrome and myocardial protection in a rat model of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) from a histological standpoint.
Methods: Twelve adult male Wistar Albino rats weighing >180 g were randomly selected and divided into 2 groups. In 1 group, the pump lines were kept 1 m shorter than standard. The right jugular vein and tail artery were cannulated using a 16-gauge catheter. Animals received 500 IU/kg intravenous heparin. Cardiac index and rectal temperature were set at 2.4 mL and 36°C, respectively. Total line volume was maintained at 8 mL. A roller pump was adjusted to supply a blood flow of 6 to 28 mL/min (mean 10 mL/min), similar to the typical cardiac output of rats. CPB duration was 15 minutes throughout the experiment. After sacrifice, tissue samples were collected from heart, liver, and kidney for histomorphologic examination.
Results: All histochemical and histomorphologic analyses, performed by 2 blinded researchers, revealed band loss in cardiomyocytes, mononuclear (MNL) cell infiltration, and impaired fibrillar organization in the standard-line group. Additionally in that group, sinusoidal dilatation in the liver, low-level congestion, focal necrosis, and periportal MNL infiltration were noted. In the shorter-line group, on the other hand, MNL cell infiltration, band loss in myofibrils, and cardiomyocyte degeneration were rarely observed. Higher liver congestion and lower MNL cell infiltration were observed in the shorter-line group. No significant differences were found in kidney samples.
Conclusion: In a shorter-line roller pump test model, less multiorgan damage and fewer systemic inflammatory responses were observed. It may be applicable to keep CPB lines as close to the table as possible, especially in pediatric cardiac surgery cases.
Preparation and publication of chemistry papers in international peer-reviewed journals
Authors: Khutoryanskiy Vitaliy
Published: April 2020

Some recommendations presented on the preparation of chemistry papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals, indexed in Scopus and Web of Science. Some advice given on the selection of a journal for publication. Impact factors and other types of classifications for different chemistry journals and publication business models by publishers briefly discussed. Some publishers specialising on publication of chemistry papers considered. Recommendations given on the preparation of each section in a manuscript, quality of illustrations as well as the documents necessary for submission of these to the journal. Some approaches used to revise the manuscript and to deal with reviewer comments also briefly discussed. This work is prepared based on the course “How to write a paper” delivered by the author at the University of Reading (United Kingdom) for a number of years for post-graduate students from physical natural sciences as well as the courses delivered in some institutions of China, Estonia, Kazakhstan and Russia. The course is based on author’s own experience in publishing over 150 papers in different peer-reviewed journals, refereeing numerous manuscripts as well as his work as an editor for some journals.