bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and pathological features of bronchiolitis obliterans requiring lung transplantation in paraneoplastic pemphigus associated with Castleman disease
Authors: Chen Wenhui , Zhao Ling , Guo Lijuan , Zhao Li , Niu Hongtao , Lian Huifang , Dai Huaping , Chen Jingyu , Wang Chen
Published: January 2022

Summary at a glance

Bronchiolitis obliterans in paraneoplastic pemphigus associated with Castleman disease possesses the progressive nature even when it is treated with intensive medical therapy. Antibodies were at least in low titers before the Lung transplant and remain negative after the procedure. Explanted lungs showed coexistence of cellular destructive bronchiolitis and constrictive bronchiolitis.

Background

Bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) in paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP) associated with Castleman disease (CD) possesses the progressive nature of pulmonary disease even when it is treated with intensive medical therapy. Lung transplantation (LT) offers an acceptable form of treatment.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of two cases of BO in PNP associated with CD who underwent LT between March 2017 and March 2020 at the China‐Japan Friendship Hospital. We also included one case from the literature.

Results

In this patient series, PNP was the primary clinical presentation in all patients, and it was accompanied by respiratory symptoms before/after CD excision. In spite of being treated with various combinations of immunosuppressive and anti‐inflammatory agents, the patients had great or total improvement in mucosal erosions, whereas their pulmonary function test (PFT) deteriorated gradually or sharply. The duration times from disease onset to timing of LT were 1, 2 and 5 years. All antibodies were negative or were present at low titers before the LT procedure and remain negative after the procedure. The histopathological features of explanted lungs showed cellular and coexistent destructive bronchiolitis and constrictive bronchiolitis in two cases. Granulation with numerous foamy macrophages, scattered giant cells and cholesterol clefts were especially prominent in case one.

Conclusion

BO in PNP associated with CD had poor clinical outcomes. LT was preferable choice in end‐stage BO when PNP and CD were controlled.
1011. LAUNAEA CERVICORNIS: Compositae
Authors: Hind Nicholas , Moore Richard , King Christabel
Published: January 2022

Launaea cervicornis (Boiss.) Font Quer & Rothm. (Compositae: Lactuceae: Hyoseridinae) is illustrated and described. The species is endemic to the Balearics, and is the dominant species in the limestone cliff‐top plant association Launaeion cervicornis (O. Bolòs & Vigo ex Y. Gil & Llorens) Rivas‐Martínez, Fernández‐González & Loidi) on the islands. Notes on cultivation, propagation, pests and diseases and availability are provided. The position of Launaea Cass. in the tribe Lactuceae (= Cichorieae) subtribe Hyoseridinae Less. is discussed, as is the position of the species within the genus, as the sole taxon in Launaea sect. Cervicornes N. Kilian. The reproductive biology of the species is discussed. The species exhibits a particularly short flowering time (per floret) and flowering period, maximizing on calm periods and an abundance of flower visitors/pollinators. The plant possesses three different dispersal mechanisms – anemochory (for solitary achenes), and atelechory and barochory for mature, unopened involucres. The former ensuring there is some movement away from the parent plant, and the latter two effectively ensuring that propagules are not instantly blown off the cliffs into the sea.
1015. INULA RHIZOCEPHALA: Compositae
Authors: Hind Nicholas , Strange Kit , King Christabel
Published: January 2022

Summary

Inula rhizocephala Schrenk (Compositae: Inuleae: Inulinae) is described and illustrated, together with a commentary on the discovery of Kew's current plant stock. Notes on cultivation, propagation, pests and diseases and availability are provided. It is highly likely that I. rhizocephala is an annual or biennial, or possibly a short‐lived perennial, since no perennating rootstock has been retained in either pot grown or Rock Garden plantings at Kew. The position of Inula rhizocephala in the genus, and within the tribe Inuleae subtribe Inulinae, is discussed. The author citation of the binomial Inula rhizocephala is also discussed as is the type material of I. rhizocephaloides, a synonym of I. rhizocephala, and aspects of the pollen presentation in the disc florets.
Recognition of broad thermal anomaly around the median tectonic line in central Kii peninsula, southwest Japan: Possible heat sources
Authors: Yamaoka Ken , Wallis Simon R.
Published: January 2022

Application of Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous material thermometry to samples of metasedimentary rock from the low‐grade Sanbagawa belt in the central Kii peninsula reveals a progressive decrease in temperature from ~390 °C close to the northern boundary, a major continental shear zone—the median tectonic line (MTL)—to ~270 °C and ~7 km to the south and roughly constant temperature distribution thereafter. Within the Sanbagawa belt, the thermal structure is not significantly modified by slip‐on fault boundaries between different geological units or folding. Meso‐ and microstructural observations combined with strain analysis using detrital grains in meta‐mudstone indicate a similar deformation history throughout the area and no correlation between ductile strain and temperature gradients. These observations suggest the observed thermal structure was developed after the main stages of ductile deformation of the Sanbagawa belt were complete and are not due to localized preferential exhumation along with the MTL. The observations also require a heat source along with the MTL. Order of magnitude estimates suggest the influx of warm fluid along the MTL are viable causes of the observed thermal anomaly. Although shear heating would be another possible explanation, thermal calculations require anomalous fast slip rates along the MTL and much greater frictional strength than generally considered reasonable. For these reasons, fluid infiltration is our preferred model.
Inculturation as Doctrinal Development: Shaping International Theological Categories
Authors: Kane Ross
Published: January 2022

‘Doctrinal development’ and ‘inculturation’ are two of the most common terms in systematic theology for incorporating new ideas into Christian tradition. While these categories often carry geographic and racial associations, this article suggests that doctrinal development and inculturation be understood as distinct though interdependent. Applying these categories internationally, in any geography, makes clear that sometimes inculturation becomes doctrinal development. In discerning such development, the article suggests a distinction between two kinds of inculturation, one that remains geographically or culturally specific and another that could become a doctrinal development for the wider church. It then tests the usefulness of this distinction by applying it to theological proposals of Jürgen Moltmann and Kwame Bediako.
Long‐term renal outcome post‐multimodal computed tomography in stroke evaluation
Authors: Lim Julia , Goh Ian , Gwini Stella‐May , Stringer Felicity , Ng Zun Niang , Dohrmann Sara , Smith Heather , Clissold Benjamin
Published: January 2022

Recent studies have demonstrated the risk of contrast‐associated acute kidney injury (CA‐AKI) is low post‐multimodal computed tomography (MMCT) in the evaluation of acute stroke. We provide a complementary study with long‐term renal follow up. A retrospective analysis was performed on all suspected strokes from January 2019 to June 2020 for those who had undergone computed tomography angiography, computed tomography perfusion or both. We identified 776 cases, of which 538 were excluded. The incidence of CA‐AKI was 7.6% (n/N = 18/238; 95% confidence interval = 4.2–11.0). All CA‐AKI cases had renal confounders. No AKI at >30 days was found in 60.5% (n = 144) of all cases studied. The long‐term renal outcome post‐MMCT in stroke evaluation is favourable at >30 days.
The Dark Triad Traits, Humor Styles, and Schadenfreude: Others' Misery as the Devil's Laughing Stocks1
Authors: Yee Jian Wei , Lee Soon Li
Published: January 2022

This research investigated the relationships of the Dark Triad traits, humor styles, and schadenfreude with 169 participants who completed the Short Dark Triad, the Humor Style Questionnaire, and a measure of schadenfreude. Significant correlations imply that those with salient dark traits (psychopathy, Machiavellianism, narcissism) elicit pleasure from others' misfortune. Additionally, schadenfreude can be a product of self‐defeating and aggressive humor styles. Indirect effect analysis revealed the significance of the indirect effect of the measured aggressive humor style on the Dark Triad's direct effects on schadenfreude. These results imply that those with salient Dark Triad traits enjoy others' misery as a means to undermine them. Hence, individuals with salient Dark Triad traits tend to engage in downward social comparison.
Risk factors for hospitalization among adults aged ≥65 years with non‐typhoidal Salmonella infection linked to backyard poultry contact
Authors: Whitehill Florence M. , Stapleton G. Sean , Koski Lia , Sievert Dawn , Nichols Megin
Published: January 2022

Objective

We describe the epidemiology of live poultry‐associated salmonellosis (LPAS) and investigate potential risk factors associated with hospitalization among adults aged ≥65 years in the United States during 2008–2017. LPAS is a public health concern in the United States, especially among people with increased risk for hospitalization, such as older adults.

Sample

We analysed data from people aged ≥65 years with non‐typhoidal salmonellosis who reported live poultry contact within seven days prior to illness onset.

Procedure

We used logistic regression to estimate the odds of hospitalization associated with several risk factors including types of live poultry contact exposures.

Results

LPAS among older adults in this analysis resulted in high hospitalization rates. Salmonella Hadar infection was associated with increased hospitalization. Among older adults with LPAS, 109 individuals of 127 (86%) reported contact with live poultry at their or someone else's residence, and 85 of 105 with available information (81%) reported owning poultry.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Additional infection prevention information and education targeted at poultry‐owning older adults are needed to prevent illness and hospitalization.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Turbine Blade Fatigue Based on a Creep-Fatigue Prediction Model
Authors: Sun Debin , Huo Junzhou , An Shaoxia
Published: January 2022

To scrupulously predict the creep-fatigue life of materials, a creep life prediction model is first proposed in this study considering real-time creep damage derived from the Kachanov creep damage model; second, combined with the Chaboche fatigue damage model and the nonlinear coupling mechanism of continuous damage mechanics, a creep-fatigue life prediction model of material is ulteriorly presented in this paper; finally, the effectiveness of the creep-fatigue life model is corroborated by experiment data of DZ125, whose prediction results are in the ± 2.0 dispersion zone and then the creep-fatigue life of the turbine blade is calculated to compare with the experimental results of the blade specimen to further prove the practicability, whose error is about 3.2%, which can provide a theoretical reference for the damage prediction, durability analysis, and life prediction of the turbine blade.
An Improved Levenberg–Marquardt Approach With a New Reduced Form for the Identification of Parameters of the One-Diode Photovoltaic Model
Authors: Tchakpedeou Abdoul-Baki , Lare Yendoubé , Napo Kossi , Fousseni Arafat
Published: January 2022

Building a highly accurate model for solar cells and photovoltaic (PV) modules based on experimental data is becoming increasingly important for the simulation, evaluation, control, and optimization of PV systems. Powerful, accurate, and more robust optimization algorithms are needed to solve this problem. In this study, a new optimization approach based on the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm (ImLM) is proposed to estimate the parameters of PV cells and modules and simulate their electrical behavior under all environmental conditions efficiently and accurately. To avoid the premature convergence of the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm and the long computation time caused by a bad choice of initial values, we propose a new approach. This is a new reduced form leading to a nonlinear relationship of the series resistance and thus allowing to calculate the optimal initial values of the model parameters. Comparisons with other published methods show that the proposed approach gives not only a more accurate final solution but also a fast convergence speed and a better stability. Furthermore, tests on three PV modules of different technologies (multi-crystalline, thin film, and monocrystalline) reveal that the proposed algorithm performs well at different irradiations and temperatures. These results confirm that the ImLM approach is a valuable tool and can be an effective and efficient alternative for extracting PV model parameters and simulating PV module behavior under different conditions.
A New Two-Stage Degradation Model for the Preload of Linear Motion Ball Guide Considering Machining Errors
Authors: Wang Xiao-Yi , Feng Hu-Tian , Zhou Chang-Guang , Chen Zeng-Tao , Xie Jing-Lun
Published: January 2022

Preload, which is widely applied in linear motion ball guide (LMBG) to eliminate clearance and increase stiffness, gradually decreases owing to wear, resulting in the degradation of the load-bearing capability and dynamic response of LMBG. However, no solution can be found on the modeling of the preload degradation of LMBG considering raceway profile error, ball diameter error, etc. Therefore, this paper presented a new two-stage degradation model to predict the preload variation of LMBG with considering machining errors. The model was experimentally verified with the prediction accuracy much higher than the model considering no machining errors at either of the two wear stages, which demonstrates the effectiveness of considering machining errors. Additionally, the effects of waviness errors, external load, and feed speed on the preload degradation of LMBG were discussed. The simulation results indicate that the preload loss rate rises with the increase of waviness error, external load and feed speed. For obtaining a longer effective service life of LMBG, it is helpful to select appropriate external load and feed speed conditions and improve the processing technique as well as the machined surface quality.
Primary Parametric Amplification in a Weakly Forced Mathieu Equation
Authors: Ramakrishnan Venkatanarayanan , Feeny Brian F.
Published: January 2022

The present study deals with the response of a forced Mathieu equation with damping, with weak harmonic direct excitation at the same frequency as the parametric excitation. A second-order perturbation analysis using the method of multiple scales unfolds parametric amplification at primary resonance. The parametric effect on the primary resonance behavior occurs with a slow time scale of second-order, although the effect on the steady-state response is of order 1. As the parametric excitation level increases, the response at primary resonance stretches before becoming unbounded and unstable. Analytical expressions for predicting the response amplitudes are presented and compared with numerical results for a specific set of system parameters. Dependence of the amplification behavior, and indeed possible deamplification, on parameters is examined. The effect of parametric excitation on the response phase behavior is also presented.
Harnessing optoelectronic noises in a photonic generative network
Authors: Wu Changming , Yang Xiaoxuan , Yu Heshan , Peng Ruoming , Takeuchi Ichiro , Chen Yiran , Li Mo
Published: January 2022

Integrated optoelectronics is emerging as a promising platform of neural network accelerator, which affords efficient in-memory computing and high bandwidth interconnectivity. The inherent optoelectronic noises, however, make the photonic systems error-prone in practice. It is thus imperative to devise strategies to mitigate and, if possible, harness noises in photonic computing systems. Here, we demonstrate a photonic generative network as a part of a generative adversarial network (GAN). This network is implemented with a photonic core consisting of an array of programable phase-change memory cells to perform four-element vector-vector dot multiplication. The GAN can generate a handwritten number (“7”) in experiments and full 10 digits in simulation. We realize an optical random number generator, apply noise-aware training by injecting additional noise, and demonstrate the network’s resilience to hardware nonidealities. Our results suggest the resilience and potential of more complex photonic generative networks based on large-scale, realistic photonic hardware.
Optimal number and orientation of anterior segment OCT images to measure ocular biometric parameters in angle closure eyes: the Chinese American Eye Study
Authors: Shan Jing , Pardeshi Anmol , Jiang Xuejuan , Richter Grace M , McKean-Cowdin Roberta , Varma Rohit , Xu Benjamin Y
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To assess the optimal number and orientation of anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) images for accurately measuring ocular biometric parameters in angle closure eyes.

Methods

Subjects with angle closure, defined as>3 quadrants of non-visible pigmented trabecular meshwork on static gonioscopy, were selected from the Chinese American Eye Study. Mean angle opening distance (AOD500) was calculated using four images (0°−180°, 45°−225°, 90°−270° and 135°−315° meridians) from one eye per subject. Ten eyes from each quartile of AOD500 measurements were randomly selected for detailed 32-image analysis of 10 biometric parameters, including AOD500, iris curvature (IC), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens vault (LV), and anterior chamber area (ACA). Mean and range of measurements from 1, 2, 4, 8 or 16 images were compared with 32-image values for all parameters.

Results

40 out of 335 eyes with angle closure were selected for 32-image analysis. Deviation from the 32-image mean was between 0.44% and 19.31% with one image, decreasing to 0.08% to 4.21% with two images for all parameters. Deviation from the 32-image range of measurements was between 54.67% to 88.94% with one image, decreasing to <7.00% with eight images for all parameters except ACD and ACA. Orienting the first image analysed along the 25°−205° meridian better approximated the range of measurements when four or fewer images were analysed.

Conclusions

Sectoral anatomical variations in angle closure eyes are easily misrepresented based on current AS-OCT imaging conventions. A revised multi-image approach can better capture the mean and range of biometric measurements.
Validity of ICD-10 codes for COVID-19 patients with hospital admissions or ED visits in Canada: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Guosong , D'Souza Adam G , Quan Hude , Southern Danielle A , Youngson Erik , Williamson Tyler , Eastwood Cathy , Xu Yuan
Published: January 2022

Objective

To evaluate the validity of COVID-19 International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes and their combinations.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Acute care hospitals and emergency departments (EDs) in Alberta, Canada.

Participants

Patients who were admitted to hospital or presented to an ED in Alberta, as captured by local administrative databases between 1 March 2020 and 28 February 2021, who had a positive COVID-19 test and/or a COVID-19-related ICD-10 code.

Main outcome measures

The sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV) and 95% CIs for ICD-10 codes were computed. Stratified analysis on age group, sex, symptomatic status, mechanical ventilation, hospital type, patient intensive care unit (ICU) admission, discharge status and season of pandemic were conducted.

Results

Two overlapping subsets of the study population were considered: those who had a positive COVID-19 test (cohort A, for estimating sensitivity) and those who had a COVID-19-related ICD-10 code (cohort B, for estimating PPV). Cohort A included 17 979 ED patients and 6477 inpatients while cohort B included 33 675 ED patients and 18 746 inpatients. Of inpatients, 9.5% in cohort A and 8.1% in cohort B received mechanical ventilation. Over 13% of inpatients were admitted to ICU. The length of hospital stay was 6 days (IQR: 3–14) for cohort A and 8 days (IQR: 3–19) for cohort B. In-hospital mortality was 15.9% and 38.8% for cohort A and B, respectively. The sensitivity for ICD-10 code U07.1 (COVID-19, virus identified) was 82.5% (81.8%–83.2%) with a PPV of 93.1% (92.6%–93.6%). The combination of U07.1 and U07.3 (multisystem inflammatory syndrome associated with COVID-19) had a sensitivity of 82.5% (81.9%–83.2%) and PPV of 92.9% (92.4%–93.4%).

Conclusions

In Alberta, ICD-10 COVID-19 codes (U07.1 and U07.3) were coded well with high validity. This indicates administrative data can be used for COVID-19 research and pandemic management purposes.
Pandemonium: a clustering tool to partition parameter space—application to the B anomalies
Authors: Laa Ursula , Valencia German
Published: January 2022

We introduce the interactive tool to cluster model predictions that depend on a set of parameters. The model predictions are used to define the coordinates in observable space which go into the clustering. The results of this partitioning are then visualized in both observable and parameter space to study correlations between them. The tool offers multiple choices for coordinates, distance functions and linkage methods within hierarchical clustering. It provides a set of diagnostic statistics and visualization methods to study the clustering results in order to interpret the outcome. The methods are most useful in an interactive environment that enables exploration, and we have implemented them with a graphical user interface in R. We demonstrate the concepts with an application to phenomenological studies in flavor physics in the context of the so-called B anomalies, exploring the tension between $$P_5^\prime $$

P
5
′

and $$R_K$$

R
K

and quantifying the resolution in parameter space that can be provided by a given observable set.
Medical Applications of Fullerenes and Metallofullerenes
Authors: Wilson Lon J.
Published: January 2022

Since the discovery of fullerenes and the subsequent incorporation of metal atoms within their carbon cage in 1985, intense interest has focused on these unique molecules. Research has greatly extended our knowledge of the chemical and biological properties of empty fullerenes, but comparatively little is yet known about endohedral metallofullerenes because of their low production yields (102-103 times lower than for empty fullerenes), low solution solubilities, difficult purification, and air sensitivity.
Impact of Investment Openness on National External Wealth: Based on Valuation Effects Perspective
Authors: Liu Kun , Lu Lingchen , Xu Jianwei
Published: January 2022

In recent years, the rise of investment protectionism has led to the decline of investment openness all over the world. Based on the perspective of valuation effects which affects changes in national external wealth, we carry out empirical analysis and find that investment openness has inhibitory effect on national external wealth in the short term but promotes it in the lag period. Furthermore, we use the open economy macroeconomic theory (NOEM) to construct DSGE model and find that reducing the degree of investment openness will lead to the rise of domestic investment asset prices and produce positive valuation effects, which will lead to the short term increase of national external wealth. However, this effect has poor persistence. In the long run, the reduction of openness will hinder transnational investment, reduce the income of transnational investment, and eventually lead to the deterioration of national external wealth. The DSGE model we constructed can be applicable for solving some problems for open economic policy. From the conclusion we have acquired, it is indicated that nations who want to maintain the steady growth of the external wealth should continue to improve investment openness and international investment environment, alleviate investment information asymmetry, and avert increasing investment protectionism.
Modeling the Impact of Virtual Contact Network with Community Structure on the Epidemic Spreading
Authors: Zhou Jianlin , Liu Haiyan
Published: January 2022

The epidemic spreading is closely related to the spread of information, and it will coevolve with the information transmission. Considering that the network structure has a significant impact on network dynamics and the virtual contact networks have obvious community structures in reality, in this article, we built a multiplex network, which contains a community structure to explore the interplay of the coupled spread dynamics. We first use a microscopic Markov chain approach to characterize the coupled disease‐awareness dynamics and then analyze the effect of different factors on the coevolution of information dissemination and epidemic spreading based on the Monte Carlo simulation. The simulation results show that promoting the dissemination of information is indeed conducive to suppressing the spread of disease, but changing the process of disease transmission has no obvious effect on the information dissemination. The analysis also reveals that increasing the information transmission rate or decreasing the information recovery rate can promote the spread of information and inhibit the spread of diseases. In addition, taking preventive behaviors or decreasing the long‐distance jump also helps slow the epidemic spreading.
Reforma trabalhista e relações de trabalho no Brasil: por quem os sinos dobram?
Authors: Cunha Sebastião Ferreira da , Silva Andriele Magioli da , Souza Filho Rondon Ferreira de , Carvalho Joelson Gonçalves de , Molina Wagner de Souza Leite
Published: January 2022

As reformas trabalhistas de 2017 são a mais abrangente alteração sofrida pela CLT desde seu lançamento. Este artigo compara as novas leis e o posicionamento sobre o tema por parte da CNI e do DIEESE, entidades que representam dois dos grupos sociais mais afetados: patrões industriais e trabalhadores. A partir do referencial da economia neoclássica e dos estudos de Dunlop sobre Sistemas de Relações Industriais, demonstra-se que a reforma atende diretamente aos interesses patronais, em detrimento dos pontos de vista colocados pela entidade dos trabalhadores, refletindo uma correlação de forças muito desfavorável a estes últimos, e lançando dúvidas sobre a capacidade explicativa dos sistemas “equilibrados” de Dunlop. O método consiste em apresentar as alterações na legislação, contrastando-as com o posicionamento das entidades. Verifica-se 100% de convergência entre as novas leis e a visão da CNI, com ampla rejeição por parte do DIEESE, o que indica a lógica por trás das reformas: a recomendação (neoclássica) de flexibilização do mercado de trabalho, argumento caro ao patronato, mas problematizado por váriosestudos acadêmicos na área das relações de trabalho.
Leveraging Spiking Deep Neural Networks to Understand the Neural Mechanisms Underlying Selective Attention
Authors: Sörensen Lynn K. A. , Zambrano Davide , Slagter Heleen A. , Bohté Sander M. , Scholte H. Steven
Published: January 2022

Spatial attention enhances sensory processing of goal-relevant information and improves perceptual sensitivity. Yet, the specific neural mechanisms underlying the effects of spatial attention on performance are still contested. Here, we examine different attention mechanisms in spiking deep convolutional neural networks. We directly contrast effects of precision (internal noise suppression) and two different gain modulation mechanisms on performance on a visual search task with complex real-world images. Unlike standard artificial neurons, biological neurons have saturating activation functions, permitting implementation of attentional gain as gain on a neuron's input or on its outgoing connection. We show that modulating the connection is most effective in selectively enhancing information processing by redistributing spiking activity and by introducing additional task-relevant information, as shown by representational similarity analyses. Precision only produced minor attentional effects in performance. Our results, which mirror empirical findings, show that it is possible to adjudicate between attention mechanisms using more biologically realistic models and natural stimuli.
Alpha Oscillations Are Involved in Localizing Touch on Handheld Tools
Authors: Fabio Cécile , Salemme Romeo , Koun Eric , Farnè Alessandro , Miller Luke E.
Published: January 2022

The sense of touch is not restricted to the body but can also extend to external objects. When we use a handheld tool to contact an object, we feel the touch on the tool and not in the hand holding the tool. The ability to perceive touch on a tool actually extends along its entire surface, allowing the user to accurately localize where it is touched similarly as they would on their body. Although the neural mechanisms underlying the ability to localize touch on the body have been largely investigated, those allowing to localize touch on a tool are still unknown. We aimed to fill this gap by recording the electroencephalography signal of participants while they localized tactile stimuli on a handheld rod. We focused on oscillatory activity in the alpha (7–14 Hz) and beta (15–30 Hz) ranges, as they have been previously linked to distinct spatial codes used to localize touch on the body. Beta activity reflects the mapping of touch in skin-based coordinates, whereas alpha activity reflects the mapping of touch in external space. We found that alpha activity was solely modulated by the location of tactile stimuli applied on a handheld rod. Source reconstruction suggested that this alpha power modulation was localized in a network of fronto-parietal regions previously implicated in higher-order tactile and spatial processing. These findings are the first to implicate alpha oscillations in tool-extended sensing and suggest an important role for processing touch in external space when localizing touch on a tool.
“Against Muhammad’s Perfidy”: The Jesuit Francisco Combés and His Relación de las islas Filipinas (c.1654)
Authors: Coello de la Rosa Alexandre
Published: January 2022

This article analyzes the centrality of the Jesuit missionaries as indispensable agents in re-establishing negotiations with the Muslims of Mindanao and Sulu. In doing so, I discuss an unpublished Jesuit report: the Relación de las islas Filipinas (Manila, 1654) by the Jesuit Juan Francisco Combés (1620–65), which willfully conflated religious conversion with military intervention and conquest in the interests of securing a permanent base of operations in the southern Philippines. Spanish hegemony in the region was always contested. Therefore, Jesuit superiors strove to convince the civil authorities of Manila, and particularly the governor of the Philippines, don Sabiniano Manrique de Lara (in office 1653–63), to leave definitively the military strongholds in the Moluccas and instead to reinforce the military presidios located in the southern islands of Mindanao as the best way to stop the Muslim raids. Finally, the postscript analyzes the martyrdom of the Jesuits Alejandro López (1604–55) and Juan de Montiel (1632–55) as a propagandistic tool to cement the Jesuit contribution to the Spanish conquest and identify it with Catholic evangelization.
Three new species of Lychnophorinae from the Brazilian Central Plateau (Asteraceae: Vernonieae)
Authors: LOEUILLE BENOÎT , DE A. BRINGEL JR. JOÃO BERNARDO , E.Q. FARIA JR. JAIR , F.M. VALLS JOSÉ
Published: January 2022

Three new species from the Brazilian Cerrado phytogeographic domain, Eremanthus tomentosus, Lychnophora goiana and L. planaltina, are hereby described and illustrated. Eremanthus tomentosus occurs in southeastern Goiás, Distrito Federal and western Minas Gerais. It is characterized by its petiolate, adaxially tomentose leaves, heads fused for 3/4 of length, florets with villose corolla tube and cypsela with reddish glands at the base. Lychnophora goiana belongs to the L. granmogolensis species complex and is endemic to Serra Geral de Goiás in northeastern Goiás. It differs from other species of the complex by its outer pappus setae longer than or equal to the length of the cypsela, also displaying a unique combination of leaf characteristics (sparse tufts of small trichomes at the insertion, midrib adaxially impressed and abaxially winged and flattened). Lychnophora planaltina is endemic to the campos rupestres of Distrito Federal and is characterized by its adaxially bullate glaucous leaves, solitary syncephalium, heads with deciduous phyllaries and sparsely sericeous cypsela. The affinities of these species are discussed.
Development of Monoclonal B-cell Lymphocytosis Shortly After Treatment with Nivolumab and Subsequent Progression to Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Jamali Arsia , Nemovi Khashayar , Kaur Jaspreet , Dasanu Constantin A
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as programmed death (PD)-1 inhibitor nivolumab, are currently widely used in treatment of various malignancies. Due to their widespread application, any new potential adverse effects due to these agents necessitate careful assessment.

Case report

We report a case of an 81-year-old man with recurrent high-risk malignant melanoma who underwent a 12-month adjuvant treatment with nivolumab. Shortly after the course of nivolumab, he developed monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL) which subsequently progressed to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Management and outcome

The patient is currently doing clinically well in Rai stage 0. Malignant melanoma remains in remission.

Conclusion

Considering the pathophysiologic plausibility of nivolumab inducing B-cell dysregulation via PD-1 inhibition, we suggest further studies on potential association between nivolumab and B-cell malignancies.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm treated with frontline HCVAD
Authors: Pemmaraju Naveen , Wilson Nathaniel R. , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Sasaki Koji , Khoury Joseph D. , Jain Nitin , Borthakur Gautam , Ravandi Farhad , Daver Naval , Kadia Tapan , DiNardo Courtney , Jabbour Elias , Pierce Sherry , Qazilbash Muzaffar , Konopleva Marina , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: January 2022

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a clinically aggressive blood cancer, often involving the skin, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and central nervous system (CNS) in 20% to 30% of patients. Despite significant progress in CD123- and BCL-2–targeted therapy, most patients are not cured without hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), and CNS relapses occur quite frequently. Combination approaches with targeted and chemotherapy agents plus incorporation of prophylactic CNS-directed therapy are urgently needed. In this setting, we sought to analyze outcomes using the cytotoxic chemotherapy backbone regimen hyperfractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, adriamycin, and dexamethasone (HCVAD). We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with BPDCN (n = 100), evaluating complete remission (CR) and median overall survival (OS) among 3 groups: those who received frontline HCVAD-based therapy (n = 35), SL-401 (n = 37), or other regimens (n = 28). HCVAD-based regimens yielded higher CR (80% vs 59% vs 43%; P = .01). There was no significant difference in OS (28.3 vs 13.7 vs 22.8 months; P = .41) or remission duration probability among treatment groups (38.6 vs not reached vs 10.2 months; P = .24). HSCT was performed in 51% vs 49% vs 38%, respectively (P = .455). These results suggest a continued important role for HCVAD-based chemotherapy in BPDCN, even in the modern targeted-therapy era, with high CR rates in the frontline setting. Further studies must establish the clinical activity, feasibility, and safety of doublet/triplet combinations of targeted therapies plus cytotoxic agents and the addition of CNS prophylaxis, with the ultimate goal of durable long-term remission for patients with BPDCN.
COVID-19 masquerading as a non-convulsive status epilepticus
Authors: Moorthamers Sofie , Preseau Thierry , Sanoussi Saïd , Gazagnes Marie-Dominique
Published: January 2022

Since the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), more and more atypical presentations of COVID-19 are being reported. Here, we present and discuss non-convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) as presenting symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection at the Emergency Department.
Intelligent fluorescence image analysis of giant unilamellar vesicles using convolutional neural network
Authors: Lee Il-Hyung , Passaro Sam , Ozturk Selin , Ureña Juan , Wang Weitian
Published: January 2022

Background

Fluorescence image analysis in biochemical science often involves the complex tasks of identifying samples for analysis and calculating the desired information from the intensity traces. Analyzing giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) is one of these tasks. Researchers need to identify many vesicles to statistically analyze the degree of molecular interaction or state of molecular organization on the membranes. This analysis is complicated, requiring a careful manual examination by researchers, so automating the analysis can significantly aid in improving its efficiency and reliability.

Results

We developed a convolutional neural network (CNN) assisted intelligent analysis routine based on the whole 3D z-stack images. The programs identify the vesicles with desired morphology and analyzes the data automatically. The programs can perform protein binding analysis on the membranes or state decision analysis of domain phase separation. We also show that the method can easily be applied to similar problems, such as intensity analysis of phase-separated protein droplets. CNN-based classification approach enables the identification of vesicles even from relatively complex samples. We demonstrate that the proposed artificial intelligence-assisted classification can further enhance the accuracy of the analysis close to the performance of manual examination in vesicle selection and vesicle state determination analysis.

Conclusions

We developed a MATLAB based software capable of efficiently analyzing confocal fluorescence image data of giant unilamellar vesicles. The program can automatically identify GUVs with desired morphology and perform intensity-based calculation and state decision for each vesicle. We expect our method of CNN implementation can be expanded and applied to many similar problems in image data analysis.
Standardization of evaluation method and prognostic significance of histological response to preoperative chemotherapy in high-grade non-round cell soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Oda Yoshinao , Tanaka Kazuhiro , Hirose Takanori , Hasegawa Tadashi , Hiruta Nobuyuki , Hisaoka Masanori , Yoshimoto Masato , Otsuka Hiroshi , Bekki Hirofumi , Ishii Takeaki , Endo Makoto , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Hiruma Toru , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Katagiri Hirohisa , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Kawai Akira , Nakayama Robert , Kawashima Hiroyuki , Takenaka Satoshi , Emori Makoto , Watanuki Munenori , Yoshida Yukihiro , Okamoto Takeshi , Mizusawa Junki , Fukuda Haruhiko , Ozaki Toshifumi , Iwamoto Yukihide , Nojima Takayuki
Published: January 2022

Background

Preoperative chemotherapy is widely applied to high-grade localized soft tissue sarcomas (STSs); however, the prognostic significance of histological response to chemotherapy remains controversial. This study aimed to standardize evaluation method of histological response to chemotherapy with high agreement score among pathologists, and to establish a cut-off value closely related to prognosis.

Methods

Using data and specimens from the patients who had registered in the Japan Clinical Oncology Group study, JCOG0304, a phase II trial evaluating the efficacy of perioperative chemotherapy with doxorubicin (DOX) and ifosfamide (IFO), we evaluated histological response to preoperative chemotherapy at the central review board.

Results

A total of 64 patients were eligible for this study. The percentage of viable tumor area ranged from 0.1% to 97.0%, with median value of 35.7%. Regarding concordance proportion between pathologists, the weighted kappa coefficient (κ) score in all patients was 0.71, indicating that the established evaluation method achieved substantial agreement score. When the cut-off value of the percentage of the residual tumor area was set as 25%, the p-value for the difference in overall survival showed the minimum value. Hazard ratio of the non-responder with percentage of the residual tumor < 25%, to the responder was 4.029 (95% confidence interval 0.893–18.188, p = 0.070).

Conclusion

The standardized evaluation method of pathological response to preoperative chemotherapy showed a substantial agreement in the weighted κ score. The evaluation method established here was useful for estimating of the prognosis in STS patients who were administered perioperative chemotherapy with DOX and IFO.

Trial registration

UMIN Clinical Trials Registry C000000096. Registered 30 August, 2005 (retrospectively registered).
Anticipating the direction of symptom progression using critical slowing down: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Schreuder Marieke J. , Wigman Johanna T. W. , Groen Robin N. , Weinans Els , Wichers Marieke , Hartman Catharina A.
Published: January 2022

Background

As complex dynamic systems approach a transition, their dynamics change. This process, called critical slowing down (CSD), may precede transitions in psychopathology as well. This study investigated whether CSD may also indicate the direction of future symptom transitions, i.e., whether they involve an increase or decrease in symptoms.

Methods

In study 1, a patient with a history of major depression monitored their mental states ten times a day for almost eight months. Study 2 used data from the TRAILS TRANS-ID study, where 122 young adults at increased risk of psychopathology (mean age 23.64±0.67 years, 56.6% males) monitored their mental states daily for six consecutive months. Symptom transitions were inferred from semi-structured diagnostic interviews. In both studies, CSD direction was estimated using moving-window principal component analyses.

Results

In study 1, CSD was directed towards an increase in negative mental states. In study 2, the CSD direction matched the direction of symptom shifts in 34 individuals. The accuracy of the indicator was higher in subsets of individuals with larger absolute symptom transitions. The indicator’s accuracy exceeded chance levels in sensitivity analyses (accuracy 22.92% vs. 11.76%, z=-2.04, P=.02) but not in main analyses (accuracy 27.87% vs. 20.63%, z=-1.32, P=.09).

Conclusions

The CSD direction may predict whether upcoming symptom transitions involve remission or worsening. However, this may only hold for specific individuals, namely those with large symptom transitions. Future research is needed to replicate these findings and to delineate for whom CSD reliably forecasts the direction of impending symptom transitions.
Factors affecting spine–femur discordance in the percentage of young adult mean on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in the elderly population: a retrospective study
Authors: Akiyama Shoshi , Tanaka Takaaki , Udaka Jun , Inagaki Naoya , Kumagae Yoshio , Chazono Masaaki , Matsuoka Tatsuki , Saito Mitsuru
Published: January 2022

Background

Several retrospective studies have reported spine–femur discordance in bone mineral density (BMD) values. However, the average age of individuals in these studies was the mid-50s, which is younger than the typical age of individuals requiring treatment for primary osteoporosis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate factors associated with discordance in the percentage of young adult mean (YAM) between the lumbar spine and femoral neck in the elderly population.

Methods

We evaluated 4549 dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) measurements obtained from 2161 patients (269 men and 1892 women) between January 2014 and December 2017 at our hospital. For individuals with more than one eligible set of measurements, the first record was used. We investigated each patient’s age, sex, body mass index, current smoking status, alcohol consumption, use of steroids, presence of diabetes mellitus, and presence of rheumatoid arthritis.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 76.4 ± 8.9 years. Older age (p <  0.001), male sex (p <  0.001), and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.007) were significantly associated with spine–femur discordance in the percentage of YAM.

Conclusion

The frequency and magnitude of spine–femur discordance in the percentage of YAM from DXA scans increased with age. Notably, more than 77.4% of patients in their 90s had spine–femur discordance > 10% of YAM. Furthermore, the frequency of spine–femur discordance was higher in men and in patients with diabetes mellitus, suggesting that the percentage of YAM at the lumbar spine may not be reliable for diagnosis of osteoporosis in patients with these factors.
A feasibility study of a cognitive behavioral based stress management intervention for nursing students: results, challenges, and implications for research and practice
Authors: Terp Ulrik , Bisholt Birgitta , Hjärthag Fredrik
Published: January 2022

Background

Stress related psychological problems are growing in nursing education and constitute an essential challenge for educators. This makes research about strategies and interventions to meet these problems important. Stress management interventions need to be tested for feasibility and acceptability, before conducting large scale RCTs. The objective of our study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a newly developed cognitive behavioral stress management intervention for nursing students.

Methods

Data were collected using a combination of standardized measurements and newly created questionnaires in combination with qualitative data. Our data included recruitment capability, sample characteristics, intervention acceptability and preliminary evaluation of participant psychological changes.

Results

Findings suggested that the feasibility of conducting a full-scale evaluation was confirmed for intervention acceptability, data collection procedures, and adherence. However, difficulties relating to recruitment capability and homework were identified. All aspects taken together, the intervention was found feasible and acceptable to nursing students, and thus a potential stress management intervention for the nurse education context.

Conclusions

Overall, this study provides an insight into the challenges and complexities of developing and evaluating a new brief cognitive behavioral based stress management training intervention in a nurse education setting.