bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new denoising strategy and the X-shaped supplement denoising operator targeting time-reversed mirror imaging technique
Authors: Zhang Lingli , Ren Yuxiao , Chen Lei , Wang Kai , Xu Xinji , Xu Xiaobin , Fu Chao
Published: August 2021

Imaging of vertical structures is a challenge in the seismic imaging field. The conventional imaging methods for vertical structures are highly dependent on the reference model or boreholes. Time-reversed mirror imaging can effectively image the vertical structures based on the multiples and a smoothed velocity model without the need of accurate seismic wavelet estimation. Although the Laplacian operator is applied in time-reversed mirror imaging, there still exists severe residual noise. In this study, we developed a new imaging denoising strategy and an X-shaped supplement denoising operator for time-reversed mirror imaging based on the geometric features of the image and the causes of imaging noise. Synthetic results for the single- and double-staircase model prove the powerful denoising capacity of the X-shaped supplement denoising operator. In addition, the results of a Marmousi model prove that the X-shaped denoising operator can also effectively suppress the noise when applying time-reversed mirror imaging method to image complex inclined structures. However, the X-shaped denoising operator still contains some limitations, such as non-amplitude-preserving.
Five-dimensional interpolation in the OVT domain for wide-azimuth seismic data
Authors: Zhang Liyan , Li Ang , Yang Jianguo , Li Shichao , Yao Yulai , Xiao Fei , Huang Yiming
Published: August 2021

To improve the imaging quality of wide-azimuth seismic data and enhance the uniformity of the attributes between adjacent bins, we developed a novel interpolation method in the offset-vector tiles (OVT) domain for wide-azimuth data. The orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) interpolation method based on the Fourier transform is a frequency-domain processing technique based on discrete Fourier interpolation that achieves the goal of anti-aliasing by extracting the weight factor in the effective band from low-frequency data without aliasing. For data reconstruction, the OMP-based data interpolation technique in the OVT domain comprehensively uses the seismic data in five dimensions: the vertical and horizontal coordinates, time, offset and azimuth. Compared with conventional three-dimensional data interpolation, five-dimensional interpolation in the OVT domain is more accurate and achieves better results in practical applications.
High-temperature effect on the material constants and elastic moduli for solid rocks
Authors: Yang Jian , Fu Li-Yun , Fu Bo-Ye , Wang Zhiwei , Hou Wanting
Published: August 2021

Thermally coupled constitutive relations are generally used to determine material constants and elastic moduli (Young's modulus and shear modulus) of solid media. Conventional studies on this issue are mainly based on the linear temperature dependence of elastic moduli, whereas analytical difficulties are often encountered in theoretical studies on nonlinear temperature dependence, particularly at high temperatures. This study investigates the thermally coupled constitutive relations for elastic moduli and material constants using the assumption of axisymmetric fields, with applications to geologic materials (marble, limestone and granite). The Taylor power series of the Helmholtz free energy function within dimensionless temperatures could be used to develop the thermally coupled constitutive relations. The thermoelastic equivalent constitutive equations were formulated under the generalized Hooke's law. The material constants of solid rocks were determined by fitting experimental data using axisymmetric stress and strain fields at different temperatures, based on their thermomechanical properties. For these geologic materials, the resultant equivalent elastic moduli and deformations were in good agreement with those from the experimental measurements. Thermal stresses, internal moisture evaporation and internal rock compositions significantly affected the experimental results. This study provides a profound understanding of the thermally coupled constitutive relations that are associated with the thermomechanical properties of solid rocks exposed to high temperatures.
Dissecting the role of the two Streptomyces peucetius var. caesius glucokinases in the sensitivity to carbon catabolite repression
Authors: Diana Rocha-Mendoza , Monserrat Manzo-Ruiz , Alba Romero-Rodríguez , Beatriz Ruiz-Villafán , Romina Rodríguez-Sanoja , Sergio Sánchez-Esquivel
Published: August 2021

Streptomyces peucetius var. caesius, the doxorubicin-producing strain, has two glucokinases (Glks) for glucose phosphorylation. One of them (ATP-Glk) uses adenosine triphosphate as its phosphate source, and the other one uses polyphosphate (PP). Glk regulates the carbon catabolite repression (CCR) process, as well as glucose utilization. However, in the streptomycetes, the specific role of each one of the Glks in these processes is unknown. With the use of PP- and ATP-Glk null mutants, we aimed to establish their respective role in glucose metabolism and their possible implication in the CCR. Our results supported that in S. peucetius var. caesius, both Glks allowed this strain to grow in different glucose concentrations. PP-Glk seems to be the main enzyme for glucose metabolism, and ATP-Glk is the only one involved in the CCR process affecting the levels of α-amylase and anthracycline production. Besides, analysis of Glk activities in the parental strain and the mutants revealed ATP-Glk as an enzyme negatively affected by high glucose concentrations. Although ATP-Glk utilizes only ATP as the substrate for glucose phosphorylation, probably PP-Glk can use either ATP or polyphosphate. Finally, a possible connection between both Glks may exist from the regulatory point of view.
Comparison of Yellow and Blue Sticky Cards for Detection and Monitoring Parasitoid Wasps of the InvasiveHalyomorpha halys(Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Holthouse Mark Cody , Spears Lori R , Alston Diane G
Published: August 2021

The invasive Halyomorpha halys (Stål) is a significant agricultural and urban nuisance pest in many parts of the world. In North America, biological control of H. halys by parasitoid wasps in the families Scelionidae and Eupelmidae has shown promise. An effective technique for detection and monitoring native and exotic parasitoids is the deployment of yellow sticky cards; however, yellow cards also attract nontarget arthropods, reducing efficiency and accuracy of parasitoid screening. This study sought to identify an alternative yet effective trapping technique by comparing the number of target parasitoid wasps [Anastatus spp. Motschulsky (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae), Telenomus spp. Haliday (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae), and Trissolcus spp. Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae)] and arthropod bycatch on yellow and blue sticky cards deployed in urban, orchard, and vegetable landscapes in northern Utah from late May to early October in 2019 and 2020. Yellow sticky cards captured 54–72% more target parasitoids than blue cards from June through August in all three landscape types in both years; however, a positive correlation in parasitoid capture indicated blue cards detect target parasitoids, just in fewer numbers. Both card colors detected adventive Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) in initial findings of 2019, and in expanded locations of 2020. Furthermore, blue cards captured 31–48% less Diptera and nontarget Hymenoptera than yellow cards in both years across all three landscapes, translating to reduced card processing time and impacts to beneficial insect populations. Our results suggest that blue vs yellow sticky cards offer an alternative monitoring technique to survey for H. halys parasitoids.
Characterizing the Context and Demand for the US Forest Service’s Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program in 2020
Authors: Kooistra Chad , Sinkular Emily , Schultz Courtney
Published: August 2021

The US Forest Service’s Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program (CFLRP) was a major policy innovation for supporting collaborative, landscape-scale forest restoration. Twenty-three CFLRP projects were funded following requests for proposals in fiscal years (FY) 2010 and 2011. Congress appropriated the fully authorized amount of $40 million to the program in FY 2012. In 2018, Congress reauthorized the CFLRP, and soon thereafter the Forest Service issued a request for new CFLRP proposals. In this article, we provide background on the reauthorization of the CFLRP and the updated proposal process. We present findings from a document analysis of the final 22 CFLRP proposals submitted in FY 2020 to characterize current demand for CFLRP and the nature of the proposed projects. We discuss our findings in the context of the CFLRP Advisory Committee’s recommendations, funding uncertainty, and broader efforts to support cross-boundary, collaborative wildfire mitigation and forest restoration.
EGG+: A graph grammar formalism with uncertain structure processing mechanism
Authors: Liu Yufeng , Yang Fan
Published: August 2021

Extended from string grammars, graph grammar is a 2D formal method, which could specify the syntax structures of visual programming languages intuitively yet formally. However, the graph matching conditions in most graph grammars are too strict in specified applications, influencing the flexibility and fault tolerant capability of graph grammar. To solve the problems, this paper introduces an uncertain structure processing mechanism into graph grammar formalism and proposes a new graph grammar named EGG+. Different from traditional graph grammars, EGG+ defines a class of special edges named uncertain edges to specify the uncertain relationships between graphical elements. Each graph with uncertain edge is defined an uncertain graph, as a prototype of a set of graphical structures. By the new terms and definitions, EGG+ productions are divided into two categories: certain productions and uncertain productions, where certain productions specify the structures with strict matching requirements and uncertain productions are used to ignore specified syntactical errors during derivation and reduction, providing fault tolerant capability for the accessible non-isomorphic structures. Moreover, a redex searching algorithm with polynomial time complexity is designed for the convenience of grammatical application in the new formalism.
Evolution of superflares of H2O maser emission in IRAS 16293–2422
Authors: Colom Pierre , Ashimbaeva N T , Lekht E E , Pashchenko M I , Rudnitskij G M , Krasnov V V , Tolmachev A M
Published: August 2021

The aim of this work was to continue the monitoring of the H2O maser emission in IRAS 16293–2422 to detect superflares. We have been observing H2O maser emission at a wavelength of 1.35 cm towards the source IRAS 16293–2422 since 1999. The observations have been carried out with the 22-m radio telescope of the Pushchino Radio Astronomy Observatory (Russia). In 2007–2018, we also conducted several sessions of observations in OH lines at a wavelength of 18 cm in both circular polarizations with the Nançay Radio Telescope (France). Between 1997 and 2021, we observed three cycles of high activity of the H2O maser with a period of 8 yr. This variability could be related to the changing activity of the protostar in the tight binary system of IRAS 16293–2422 in the process of its formation. This variability could be related to an increase in the activity of the tight binary protostar IRAS 16293–2422 A, first seen in 2002. The H2O maser variation in flux density and radial velocity suggests that disturbances are propagating through organized structures in the form of chains ∼3.5 au long, with monotonic velocity gradients in the direction of propagation. The 18-cm OH emission in the main and satellite lines is thermal.
The low-redshift circumgalactic medium in simba
Authors: Appleby Sarah , Davé Romeel , Sorini Daniele , Storey-Fisher Kate , Smith Britton
Published: August 2021

We examine the properties of the low-redshift circumgalactic medium (CGM) around star-forming and quenched galaxies in the simba cosmological hydrodynamic simulations, focusing on comparing H i and metal line absorption to observations from the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS)-Halos and COS-Dwarfs surveys. Halo baryon fractions are generally ${\lesssim}50{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the cosmic fraction due to stellar feedback at low masses, and jet-mode AGN feedback at high masses. Baryons and metals in the CGM of quenched galaxies are ${\gtrsim}90{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ hot gas, while the CGM of star-forming galaxies is more multiphase. Hot CGM gas has low metallicity, while warm and cool CGM gas have metallicity close to that of galactic gas. Equivalent widths, covering fractions and total path absorption of H i and selected metal lines (Mg ii, Si iii, C iv, and O vi) around a matched sample of simba star-forming galaxies are mostly consistent with COS-Halos and COS-Dwarfs observations to ${\lesssim}0.4$ dex, depending on ion and assumed ionizing background. Around matched quenched galaxies, absorption in all ions is lower, with H i absorption significantly underpredicted. Metal-line absorption is sensitive to choice of photoionizing background; assuming recent backgrounds, simba matches O vi but underpredicts low ions, while an older background matches low ions but underpredicts O vi. Simba reproduces the observed dichotomy of O vi absorption around star-forming and quenched galaxies. CGM metals primarily come from stellar feedback, while jet-mode AGN feedback reduces absorption particularly for lower ions.
Prevalence of mild cognitive impairment in automated peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Salazar-Félix Noé A , Martin-del-Campo Fabiola , Cueto-Manzano Alfonso M , Romo-Flores María L , Velázquez-Vidaurri Alma L , Sánchez-Soriano Artemio , Ruvalcaba-Contreras Neri , Calderón-Fabian Alejandro , Rojas-Campos Enrique , Cortés-Sanabria Laura
Published: August 2021

Background

Cognitive deterioration decreases quality of life, self-care and adherence to treatment, increasing mortality risk. There is scarce information of cognitive impairment in peritoneal dialysis (PD) and data are controversial. Our aim was to determine the frequency and associated factors of cognitive impairment in patients on automated PD (APD).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 71 patients on APD underwent clinical, biochemical and cognitive function evaluation by means of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Cognitive function was also evaluated in healthy controls.

Results

Participants mean age was 42 ± 16 years, 79% were men and dialysis vintage was 17 months ( interquartile range 7–32). In APD patients, cognitive impairment was present in 7% (mild deterioration) and 68% according to the MMSE and MoCA, respectively, and 4 and 37% in the healthy controls. Patients with cognitive impairment (according to MoCA) were older, with less education, had diabetes more frequently and higher serum glucose as well as lower serum creatinine, phosphorus and sodium concentrations than patients with normal cognitive function. In multiple linear regression analysis, predictors for the MoCA score (R2 = 0.63, P = 0.002) were education {B = 0.54 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20–0.89]; P = 0.003}, age [B = −0.11 (95% CI −0.21 to −0.01); P = 0.04], serum sodium [B = 0.58 (95% CI 0.05–1.11); P = 0.03] and creatinine concentration [B = 3.9 (95% CI 0.03–0.83); P = 0.03].

Conclusions

In this sample of APD patients, the prevalence of cognitive impairment by the MoCA was 65% and was associated with older age, lower education level and lower serum concentrations of sodium and creatinine.
OTHR-15. Assessment of TRIPOD adherence in articles developing machine learning models for differentiation of glioma from brain metastasis
Authors: Jekel Leon , Brim Waverly Rose , Petersen Gabriel Cassinelli , Subramanian Harry , Zeevi Tal , Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Bousabarah Khaled , Lin MingDe , Cui Jin , Brackett Alexandria , Johnson Michele , Malhotra Ajay , Aboian Mariam
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Machine learning (ML) applications in predictive models in neuro-oncology have become an increasingly investigated subject of research. For their incorporation into clinical practice, rigorous assessment is needed to reduce bias. Several reports have indicated utility of ML applications in differentiation of glioma from brain metastasis. However, a systematic assessment of quality of methodology and reporting in these studies has not been done yet. We examined the adherence of 29 published reports in this field to the TRIPOD statement, which is similar to CLAIM checklist.

Materials and Methods

Our systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Ovid Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane trials (CENTRAL) and Web of science core-collection were searched. Keywords included artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, radiomics, magnetic resonance imaging, glioma, and glioblastoma. Assessment of TRIPOD adherence in 29 eligible studies was performed. Individual item performance was assessed by adherence index (ADI), the ratio of mean achieved score to maximum score per TRIPOD item.

Results

In a preliminary analysis of 8 studies, the average TRIPOD adherence score was 0.48 (14.25/30 items fulfilled) with individual scores ranging from 0.27 (8/30) to 0.60 (18/30). Best overall item performance, with an ADI of 1, was seen in item 3 (Background/Objectives), 16 (Model performance) and 19 (Interpretation). Poorest performance was detected in item 1 (Title) and 2 (Abstract), followed by item 9 (Missing Data) with ADI of 0, 0 and 0.13, respectively.

Conclusion

Preliminary results underline the lack of reproducibility in ML studies on distinction between glioma and brain metastasis. An average TRIPOD adherence score of 0.48 indicates insufficient quality of reporting and outlines the need for increased utilization of quality scoring systems in study documentation. Systematic evaluation of quality score adherence will allow us to identify common flaws in this field for enabling translation of models into clinical workflow.
RADI-02. Hippocampal-sparing whole brain volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) planning in Monaco: a “How-to” not pull your hair out
Authors: Goss Matthew , Rowles Rochelle , Spanovich Lisa , Wegner Rodney , Hasan Shaakir , Horne Zachary
Published: August 2021

Purpose

NRG-CC001 recently reported positive results on hippocampal-sparing IMRT (HS-IMRT) in conjunction with memantine for the reduction in cognitive decline compared to conventional whole brain radiation therapy. Herein, we report our experience in planning volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) cases in Monaco® with the anticipation of increased utilization of the planning technique for delivery on Elekta linear accelerators.

Methods and Materials

Twelve patients previously treated with whole brain radiation therapy who would have been eligible for NRG-CC001 were replanned with VMAT HS-IMRT for to a dose of 30Gy/10fx using constraints from the trial.

Results

All twelve patients were able to be planned with VMAT and achieve NRG-CC001 dose constraints. Median maximum and D100% to the right and left hippocampi were: 13.37Gy and 13.43Gy, respectively and 8.76Gy and 8.86Gy, respectively. Median coverage of the brain minus the hippocampi with 30Gy was 96.53%. All cases passed quality assurance testing with 3%/3mm and 2%/2mm criterion.

Conclusions

Hippocampal-sparing IMRT whole brain radiation therapy can be feasibly planned with VMAT technique in Monaco® and delivered on Elekta linear accelerators.
SURG-09. Benefits of laser interstitial thermal therapy in the treatment of biopsy-proven radiation necrosis
Authors: Lerner Emily , Srinivasan Ethan , Sankey Eric , Grabowski Matthew , Griffin Andrew , Howell Elizabeth , Otvos Balint , Tsvankin Vadim , Akit Ahmet , Joshi Krishna , Barnett Gene , Fecci Peter , Mohammadi Alireza
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is a minimally-invasive treatment option often used for patients with deep-seated intracranial lesions. It has been implemented as a definitive treatment for radiation necrosis (RN), which occurs in 9–14% of patients after stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases (BM). Medical management (MM) with steroids is a common first-line therapy, with variable response and numerous side effects, especially regarding immunotherapy.

Methods

Patients with biopsy-proven RN after SRS for BM who received LITT or MM at two academic centers were retrospectively reviewed. Treatment failure was defined as radiographic progression that necessitated a change in management. Measurements of total (TLV) and contrast-enhancing lesion volume (ceLV) were obtained from MRI by semi-automated analysis using the BrainLab iPlan Cranial 3.0 software.

Results

Seventy-two patients were followed for 10.0 (4.2–25.1) months and 57 (79%) received LITT. Steroid cessation occurred at a median of 37 days post-LITT compared to 245 days after MM (p<0.01). On Kaplan-Meier analyses, there was no significant difference between the two groups in overall survival (LITT median of 15.2 months vs 11.6 months, p = 0.60) or freedom from local progression (13.6 months vs. 7.06 months), though LITT trended to show a benefit in both metrics. When controlled for follow-up duration, patients treated with LITT were three times more likely to be weaned off steroids prior to the study endpoint compared to those who were medically managed (p=0.003). The LITT cohort demonstrated a general radiographic trend of initially increased CeLV followed by contraction, with significant decreases from pre-operative at 10–12 months (p<0.01). The MM group did not demonstrate any statistically significant radiographic trends.

Conclusion

These results suggest that LITT for RN significantly reduces the time to steroid cessation and characterize a stereotyped radiographic response to LITT. Future prospective studies will be important to their validation.
Wet-chemical synthesis of two-dimensional metal nanomaterials for electrocatalysis
Authors: Li Zijian , Zhai Li , Ge Yiyao , Huang Zhiqi , Shi Zhenyu , Liu Jiawei , Zhai Wei , Liang Jinzhe , Zhang Hua
Published: August 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) metal nanomaterials have gained ever-growing research interest owing to their fascinating physicochemical properties and promising application, especially in the field of electrocatalysis. In this review, we briefly introduce the recent advances in wet-chemical synthesis of 2D metal nanomaterials. Subsequently, the catalytic performances of 2D metal nanomaterials in a variety of electrochemical reactions are illustrated. Finally, we summarize current challenges and highlight our perspectives on preparing high-performance 2D metal electrocatalysts.
Addressing and Inspiring Vaccine Confidence in Black, Indigenous, and People of Color During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic
Authors: Marcelin Jasmine R , Swartz Talia H , Bernice Fidelia , Berthaud Vladimir , Christian Robbie , da Costa Christopher , Fadul Nada , Floris-Moore Michelle , Hlatshwayo Matifadza , Johansson Patrik , Kullar Ravina , Manning Kimberly , McGee Edoabasi U , Medlin Christopher , Piggott Damani A , Syed Uzma , Snowden Jessica , Tan Tina , Abdul-Mutakabbir Jacinda C
Published: August 2021

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, we have witnessed profound health inequities suffered by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). These manifested as differential access to testing early in the pandemic, rates of severe disease and death 2–3 times higher than white Americans, and, now, significantly lower vaccine uptake compared with their share of the population affected by COVID-19. This article explores the impact of these COVID-19 inequities (and the underlying cause, structural racism) on vaccine acceptance in BIPOC populations, ways to establish trustworthiness of healthcare institutions, increase vaccine access for BIPOC communities, and inspire confidence in COVID-19 vaccines.
Does high unemployment mobilize the unemployed? Evidence using Swedish register data
Authors: Österman Marcus , Lindgren Karl-Oskar
Published: August 2021

This article contributes to recent scholarship on the effects of economic hardship on political participation, and particularly on the issue of how individual and contextual effects interact. More specifically, we study whether the effect of individual unemployment on turnout depends on the level of aggregate unemployment. In contrast to most existing researchers on this topic, we argue that contextual unemployment may reinforce the negative effects of individual unemployment. We also contend that previous studies have not adequately considered how the composition of the unemployed population differs across times of high and low unemployment. Our empirical approach uses state-of-the-art Swedish register panel data, which gives us good opportunities to control for the selection of the unemployed population over the business cycle. We find that once this problem of dynamic selection is taken into account, the negative effect of individual unemployment on electoral turnout is actually stronger in high unemployment contexts.
The Impact of Taking Family Leaves Across Finnish Fathers’ Wage Distribution
Authors: Morosow Kathrin , Cooke Lynn Prince
Published: August 2021

Evidence is mixed as to whether less- or more-advantaged fathers suffer penalties for taking paid family leave and the reasons for this. Perhaps selection into taking leave differs among fathers, or taking leave increases some fathers’ commitment to family over paid work, or taking it sends a negative signal to employers about future work-family priorities. We contribute to the literature by distinguishing between the initial paternity leave taken by the majority of fathers, and subsequent solo paternal leave taken by fewer fathers that indicates and signals greater family commitment. We also develop competing hypotheses about why low- or high-wage fathers may be penalized more for taking family leave. These are tested analyzing 2001 to 2014 waves of Finnish administrative panel data using unconditional quantile regression with various fixed-effects models. Net of selection, no fathers incur a sustained wage penalty for taking paternity leave, although distributed fixed-effects models reveal the highest-wage fathers receive a temporary penalty that we attribute to signaling. All fathers who also take solo paternal leave have decreasing post-leave wage trajectories. Only lower-wage fathers accrue significant penalties, however, suggesting that taking the leave shifts their priorities more toward family. We conclude the repercussions of taking shorter or longer family leaves and their sources differ across fathers’ wage distribution.
Affective Economies in Blood Banks and Biobanks: Vital Accounting from US Transfusion Medicine to Genetic Research, 1935–1990
Authors: Metcalf Kathryne
Published: August 2021

Medical blood banks and research biobanks are frequently figured as immobile middlemen in the larger machinations of biomedicine, possessing little power to influence the meaning or mobilisation of the biomaterials they accumulate. However, as the institutions that facilitate the collection and circulation of blood for a variety of purposes, blood and biobanks—much like their financial namesakes—legitimate certain practices and constitute the conditions of possibility for others. By following the ‘banking’ metaphor from its origins in 1930s US blood banking through global research specimen collection in the latter half of the century, this essay argues that economic rhetoric has worked to reproduce systems of classed and raced inequity within the circulation of blood through US medicine and research, in turn shifting the affective valences of raced and classed bodies as donors, patients and research subjects.
Rapid changes in overnight blood pressure after transitioning to early-morning shiftwork
Authors: McHill Andrew W , Velasco Josie , Bodner Todd , Shea Steven A , Olson Ryan
Published: August 2021

Risk for adverse cardiovascular events increases when blood pressure does not decrease at night (“non-dipping,” <10% decrease from daytime blood pressure). Shiftwork alters relationships between behaviors and endogenous circadian rhythms (i.e., circadian disruption along with variable sleep timing), and chronic shiftwork increases cardiovascular disease risk. To determine whether transitioning into shiftwork changes the overnight blood pressure dipping pattern, we leveraged a natural experiment that occurs when newly-hired bus operators transition from a daytime training schedule into an early-morning shiftwork or daywork schedule. Twenty participants were studied in a 90-day protocol upon new employment and underwent cardio-metabolic health assessments, including ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and weekly sleep-wake diaries. Measurements were repeated after ~30 and 90 days after transitioning to a day or an early-morning shiftwork schedule. Newly-hired shiftworkers displayed dramatic changes in overnight blood pressure, with 62% converting from a healthy dipping blood pressure to the nondipping pattern, resulting in 93% of shiftworkers displaying a nondipping phenotype at 90-days. In contrast, 50% of dayworkers had a nondipping profile at baseline and this decreased to 0% at 90-days, a significant difference from shiftworkers (p = .001). At 90-days, overnight blood pressure dipping was ~7% less in shiftworkers than dayworkers (–6.3% [95%CI –3.7 to –8.8%] vs –13.1% [–10.3 to –15.9%]: p < .01), with changes in dipping associated with changes in sleep timing variability (r2 = .28, p = .03). The observed changes in overnight blood pressure dipping in newly-hired early-morning shiftworkers, which were associated with sleep timing variability, may be an early warning sign of increased cardiovascular risk among shiftworkers.
Phylogenomic and Macroevolutionary Evidence for an Explosive Radiation of a Plant Genus in the Miocene
Authors: Kong Hanghui , Condamine Fabien L , Yang Lihua , Harris A J , Feng Chao , Wen Fang , Kang Ming
Published: August 2021

Mountain systems harbor a substantial fraction of global biodiversity and, thus, provide excellent opportunities to study rapid diversification and to understand the historical processes underlying the assembly of biodiversity hotspots. The rich biodiversity in mountains is widely regarded as having arisen under the influence of geological and climatic processes as well as the complex interactions among them. However, the relative contribution of geology and climate in driving species radiation is seldom explored. Here, we studied the evolutionary radiation of Oreocharis (Gesneriaceae), which has diversified extensively throughout East Asia, especially within the Hengduan Mountains (HDM), using transcriptomic data and a time calibrated phylogeny for 88% (111/126) of all species of the genus. In particular, we applied phylogenetic reconstructions to evaluate the extent of incomplete lineage sorting accompanying the early and rapid radiation in the genus. We then fit macroevolutionary models to explore its spatial and diversification dynamics in Oreocharis and applied explicit birth–death models to investigate the effects of past environmental changes on its diversification. Evidence from 574 orthologous loci suggest that Oreocharis underwent an impressive early burst of speciation starting ca. 12 Ma in the Miocene, followed by a drastic decline in speciation toward the present. Although we found no evidence for a shift in diversification rate across the phylogeny of Oreocharis, we showed a difference in diversification dynamics between the HDM and non-HDM lineages, with higher diversification rates in the HDM. The diversification dynamic of Oreocharis is most likely positively associated with temperature-dependent speciation and dependency on the Asian monsoons. We suggest that the warm and humid climate of the mid-Miocene was probably the primary driver of the rapid diversification in Oreocharis, while mountain building of the HDM might have indirectly affected species diversification of the HDM lineage. This study highlights the importance of past climatic changes, combined with mountain building, in creating strong environmental heterogeneity and driving diversification of mountain plants, and suggests that the biodiversity in the HDM cannot directly be attributed to mountain uplift, contrary to many recent speculations.[East Asian monsoons; environmental heterogeneity; Hengduan Mountains; incomplete lineage sorting; Oreocharis; past climate change; rapid diversification; transcriptome.]
Trajectory of Pain, Functional Limitation, and Parental Coping Resources Following Pediatric Short-stay Surgery
Authors: Jaaniste Tiina , Wood Jordan G. , Johnson Anya , Nguyen Helena , Chan David Bertrand , Powell Alexandra , Pfeiffer Genevieve , Wong Brandon , Champion G. David
Published: August 2021

Objectives:

Although there are many benefits of short-stay hospital admissions for high volume, pediatric surgical procedures, this model of care places greater responsibility on parents for the management of children’s pain. This study aimed to document the trajectory of child pain outcomes and a range of parent-reported functional outcomes following discharge from a short-stay surgical admission. Moreover, we aimed to document the trajectory of parental perceived personal coping resources. Second, we assessed whether parental dispositional factors, assessed before hospital discharge, predicted the child’s pain intensity and parent-reported functional recovery.

Methods:

Participants included children (aged 4 to 14 y) admitted for a short-stay tonsillectomy or appendectomy, and their parents. Parents completed a questionnaire before discharge from hospital. Demographic and surgical information was recorded from medical records. Following discharge, daily assessments of pain and functioning were carried out over a 10-day period using iPods or mobile phones. Predischarge and postdischarge data were obtained for 55 child and parent dyads.

Results:

Pain intensity scores returned to low levels (2/10 or less) by day 5 for appendectomy and day 10 for tonsillectomy. Parents’ perceived personal coping resources increased more slowly following tonsillectomy than appendectomy. Controlling for time since surgery and parental coping resources, parental pain-related catastrophizing was a significant predictor of child pain and functional recovery.

Discussion:

Short-stay surgery results in parents facing considerable burden in managing their child’s pain and functional impairment over a 10-day period. The potential value of screening for parental pain-related catastrophizing before discharge from hospital warrants further consideration and may enable identification of children likely to experience poorer recovery.
Determining C2 Pedicle Screw Placement Feasibility in the Pediatric Population: A Computed Tomographic Safe Zone Analysis
Authors: Hirase Takashi , Zhuge Wu , Phelps Christopher I. , Kushwaha Vivek P. , Marco Rex A.W.
Published: August 2021

Background:

Due to high rates of anatomic variability of the C2 pedicle, thin-sliced pedicular-oriented computed tomography (CT) and 3-dimensional reconstructive CT technologies have been introduced to predict safe C2 pedicle screw placement. However, this technology may not be readily available in all centers. The purpose of this study was to perform a C2 pedicle safe zone analysis using standard sagittal CT scans to predict the feasibility of C2 pedicle screw placement in a pediatric population and to compare the results with our previously obtained safe zone analysis from the adult population.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed at a single level I trauma center of pediatric patients who completed CT scans of the cervical spine. The feasibility of C2 pedicle screw placement was analyzed using our previously described C2 pedicle safe zone analysis technique. The risk profiles were compared with our previously obtained safe zone analysis from the adult population.

Results:

Thirty-nine consecutive patients with a mean age of 7.8±4.4 years and 78 total pedicles were included in the study. Fourteen pedicles (18%) were considered low risk, 37 (47%) were moderate risk, and 27 (35%) were high risk for vertebral artery injury. Individual patients were found to have a significant amount of side-to-side variability between pedicles with 21 patients (54%) having left and right pedicles with different risk profiles. Four patients (10%) demonstrated low risk profiles in bilateral pedicles. There was no significant difference between the risk profiles of pediatric and adult patients.

Conclusions:

There is a considerable amount of anatomic variability within the pediatric C2 pedicles. Using this simple and accessible technique during the review of preoperative imaging, C2 pedicle screw placement may be considered in appropriately selected pediatric patients.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Deficiency of Procollagen C-Proteinase Enhancer 1 in Mice has No Major Impact on Cardiac Collagen and Function Under Basal Conditions
Authors: Sansilvestri-Morel Patricia , Harouki-Crochemore Najah , Bertin Florence , Bertheux Hélène , Vermeil de Conchard Guy , Diguet Nicolas , Desfosses Emilie , Lecomte Mathilde , Gonzalez Arantxa , Diez Javier , Tupinon-Mathieu Isabelle , Delerive Philippe
Published: August 2021

Maturation of fibrillar collagen is known to play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of myocardial fibrosis. Procollagen C-proteinase enhancer 1 (PCPE1) has a key role in procollagen maturation and collagen fibril formation. The phenotype of both male and female PCPE1 knock-out mice was investigated under basal conditions to explore the potential of PCPE1 as a therapeutic target in heart failure. Global constitutive PCPE1−/− mice were generated. Serum procollagen I C-terminal propeptide, organ histology, and cutaneous wound healing were assessed in both wild type (WT) and PCPE1−/− mice. In addition, the cardiac expression of genes involved in collagen metabolism was investigated and the total and insoluble cardiac collagen contents determined. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography. No differences in survival, clinical chemistry, or organ histology were observed in PCPE1−/− mice compared with WT. Serum procollagen I C-terminal propeptide was lower in PCPE1−/− mice. Cardiac mRNA expression of Bmp1, Col1a1, Col3a1, and Loxl2 was similar, whereas Tgfb and Loxl1 mRNA levels were decreased in PCPE1−/− mice compared with sex-matched WT. No modification of total or insoluble cardiac collagen content was observed between the 2 strains. Ejection fraction was slightly decreased in PCPE1−/− male mice, but not in females. Finally, wound healing was not altered in PCPE1−/− mice. PCPE1 deficiency does not trigger any major liabilities and does not affect cardiac collagen content nor its function under basal conditions. Further studies are required to evaluate its role under stressed conditions and determine its suitability as a therapeutic target for heart failure.
Association of proteinuria and hypertension with incident atrial fibrillation in an elderly population: nationwide data from a community-based elderly cohort
Authors: Park Yoon Jung , Yang Pil-Sung , Yu Hee Tae , Kim Tae-Hoon , Jang Eunsun , Uhm Jae-Sun , Pak Hui-Nam , Lee Moon-Hyoung , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Joung Boyoung
Published: August 2021

Objective:

The excess risk of atrial fibrillation in relation to the presence of proteinuria associated with hypertension has not been well elucidated. We aimed to determine the effect of hypertension and/or proteinuria on the incidence of atrial fibrillation. Second, we evaluated whether the associations with temporal changes in proteinuria status on the incidence of atrial fibrillation.

Methods and results:

A total of 85 434 participants with hypertension and 125 912 participants without hypertension with age at least 60 years from the Korea National Health Insurance Service-Senior cohort were included. Amongst controls (participants without proteinuria and hypertension), hypertension only, proteinuria only, and hypertension with proteinuria groups, the adjusted incidences of atrial fibrillation were 0.51, 0.69. 0.78 and 0.99 per 100 person-years, respectively after inverse probability of treatment weighting. Compared with controls, the weighted risks of atrial fibrillation in the hypertension only, proteinuria only and hypertension with proteinuria groups were increased by 37% (hazard ratio 1.37, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.30–1.44, P = 0.001), 55% (hazard ratio 1.55, 95% CI 1.28–1.88, P < 0.001), and 98% (hazard ratio 1.98, 95% CI 1.62–2.43, P < 0.001), respectively. Populations who had proteinuria in the first examination had an increased risk of atrial fibrillation even in the group whereby the proteinuria was resolved on the second examination (hazard ratio 1.36, 95% CI 1.12–2.31, P < 0.001). The presence of proteinuria in first and second analysis had the highest risk of incident atrial fibrillation (hazard ratio 1.61, 95% CI 1.12–2.31).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, hypertension and/or proteinuria were associated with increased risk of atrial fibrillation, with the greatest risks when both are present. Proteinuria could be a useful factor for predicting atrial fibrillation development.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FOVEAL MICROVASCULATURE IN CHILDREN WITH MARFAN SYNDROME
Authors: Chen Hui , Ng Kit Yee , Li Songshan , Jin Guangming , Cao Qianzhong , Lian Zhangkai , Luo Xiaoling , Ding Xiaoyan , Zheng Danying
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To investigate the characteristics of foveal microvasculature in children with Marfan syndrome (MFS).

Methods:

Ninety eyes from 45 MFS patients and 76 eyes from 38 healthy individuals of age-matched, sex-matched, and axial length-matched were enrolled. Characteristics of the superficial capillary plexus including the vessel density, perfusion density, and foveal avascular zone were analyzed by optical coherence tomography angiography.

Results:

The vessel density and the circularity index of the foveal avascular zone were significantly decreased in the MFS group compared with the controls (P = 0.017 and P = 0.004 respectively). In MFS group, the central vessel density (P = 0.003) and perfusion density (P = 0.001) were negatively correlated with the best-corrected visual acuity. The foveal avascular zone area was correlated with the aortic diameters (P = 0.001) and the paratemporal perfusion density was correlated with the ejection fraction (P = 0.003). Moreover, the paratemporal perfusion density and the circularity index of foveal avascular zone were found to be correlated with the aortic Z-score (P < 0.001 and P = 0.003 respectively).

Conclusion:

Retinal microvascular decrease and its correlation with best-corrected visual acuity and cardiac functions were observed in the MFS group. The optical coherence tomography angiography may help to characterize the underlying pathophysiology features of MFS and enable early detection and prevention of vascular changes in MFS.
A Novel Surgical Approach for Big Sheet Allogenic Retinal Pigment Epithelium–Bruch Membrane Complex Transplantation Into the Subretinal Space
Authors: Hu Yuntao , Du Yu , Jin Ying , Feng Kang , Chen Huijin , Han Liang , Qu Hongqiang , Ma Zhizhong
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

Allogenic transplantation of retinal pigmented epithelium monolayer sheet has experienced bottlenecks due to imperfect surgical techniques. In this study, we developed a novel approach for allogenic transplantation of big sheets of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)–Bruch membrane complex.

Methods:

RPE–Bruch membrane complex sheets of 5 × 6 mm2 to 10 × 10 mm2 were taken from donated eyes. Through a novel approach, the sheets of RPE–Bruch membrane complex were transplanted into the subretinal space of eight eyes (8 patients) with late-stage retinitis pigmentosa. The patients were followed up for 5 ± 2 months.

Results:

All RPE–Bruch membrane complexes were successfully inserted into the subretinal space during the surgery. Follow-up examinations also showed that the grafts attached well to the transplantation site. No rejection or retinal detachment was found.

Conclusion:

Through our technique, big sheets of allogenic RPE–Bruch membrane complexes could be implanted into the subretinal space smoothly. This novel approach may be useful for big sheet of allogenic RPE-derived or stem cells-derived RPE transplantation in the treatment of RP and other retinal dystrophic diseases.
Enhancing Scleral Buckling Surgery Using an Illuminated Scleral Depressor
Authors: Mariacher Siegfried , Khalil Haidar , Bolz Matthias
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

To report a technique for scleral buckling surgery under the operating microscope with wide-field viewing.

Methods:

The identification and reliable marking of retinal breaks is one of the key steps for successful surgery in scleral buckling. For sufficient visualization of retinal breaks, some kind of indentation and illumination is necessary. In this technique, one instrument (Visible Periphery illuminated scleral indentor; Oertli Instrumente AG, Switzerland) combines scleral depression, illumination, and color marking (using a surgical marking pen) of the corresponding sclera above the retinal break.

Results:

The illuminated scleral depressor enables the surgeon to safely and precisely mark the retinal break while stabilizing and rotating the eye with the other hand. This technique simplifies scleral buckling surgery by improving the handling and visualization of marking retinal breaks at the corresponding scleral. Neither intraoperative indirect ophthalmoscopy nor sclerotomies for chandelier light systems or any intraocular instrument are necessary.

Conclusion:

The illuminated scleral depressor facilitates scleral buckling surgery in a convenient way for easy and precise scleral marking of the retinal breaks even in challenging situations and positions of retinal breaks under the operating microscope with wide-field viewing. Indirect ophthalmology or other illumination sources are no longer needed.
PERIPAPILLARY PACHYCHOROID SYNDROME
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Azad Shorya V. , Verma Saurabh , Surve Abhidnya , Vohra Rajpal , Venkatesh Pradeep
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

Available literature on peripapillary pachychoroid syndrome (PPS) is very limited. The purpose of this study is to evaluate features of PPS using multimodal imaging and shed further light on this entity.

Methods:

This is a retrospective case series at a tertiary eye-care center. Patients with features of pachychoroid with preferential choroidal thickening in nasal macula along with pachyvessels were identified and included for analysis. The patients underwent fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, optical coherence tomography, fundus fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine angiography. Images were separately analyzed by two different retina specialists.

Results:

A total of 27 eyes of 14 patients with mean age of 52.2 years were included. Seven patients had bilateral PPS, whereas six had unilateral; one patient had only one seeing eye. A total of 21 eyes with PPS were studied. 52.4% of the eyes revealed retinal pigment epithelium gravitational tracks, outer retinal atrophy, and serous PEDs. None of the eyes showed choroidal folds. Fundus fluorescein angiography showed late leakage at macula in 33% eyes. Fundus autofluorescence showed features of PPS to be similar to central serous chorioretinopathy in most cases.

Conclusion:

Peripapillary pachychoroid syndrome shares common findings with central serous chorioretinopathy and seems to be a subset of central serous chorioretinopathy than a separate entity in pachychoroid disease spectrum.