bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges of delivering reproductive health services to forced displaced populations
Authors: Varshney N , Budhathoki S , Omar M
Published: October 2021

Background

Of the 80 million forced displaced persons worldwide, women and children bear greater morbidity and mortality, especially in conflict-affected regions. This is due to disruption in health service provision, breakdown of social institutions and increase in sexual and gender-based violence. Reproductive health (RH) service delivery as part of humanitarian health cluster services is outlined in the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP). This study explores the challenges of delivering RH services to forced-displaced populations, focussing on field level stakeholders in humanitarian settings.

Methods

Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders from non-governmental and United Nations agencies involved in delivering RH services to conflict-affected populations. Additionally, a scoping review, using the Arksey and O'Malley framework, of the literature was also conducted reviewing challenges of delivering RH programmes to women in forced displaced populations. An inductive and deductive thematic approach was used in data analysis.

Results

Eleven key informants (KIs) were interviewed from six conflict-affected countries including Syria, Afghanistan and Libya. Main emerging themes were: 1. Poor awareness of international guidelines (including the MISP) 2. Service provision barriers including lack of human resources 3. Attitudes towards SRH and women's rights 4. Disruption of health services due to COVID-19.

Conclusions

This study has highlighted the main challenges that the humanitarian actors delivering RH programmes in conflict-affected settings face. Implementation of international guidelines remains a key barrier. Key policy recommendations would be to standardise training for all RH providers, prioritise training in the MISP and address cultural attitudes towards RH. Further research exploring the use of WHO's essential medicines for RH and the long-term impact of COVID-19 on forced displaced females needs to be conducted.

Key messages

Providing basic essential reproductive health services to conflict affected populations remains a challenge, including implementation of standardised international guidance through the MISP. One key policy recommendation would be to prioritise training in MISP for conflict-affected humanitarian settings to ensure it is offered as part of the essential package.
Laboratory limits on the annihilation or decay of dark matter particles
Authors: Marrodán Undagoitia Teresa , Rodejohann Werner , Wolf Tim , Yaguna Carlos E
Published: October 2021

Constraints on the indirect detection of dark matter are usually obtained from observations of astrophysical objects—the Galactic Center, dwarf galaxies, M31, etc. Here we propose instead to look for the annihilation or decay of dark matter particles taking place inside detectors searching directly for dark matter or in large neutrino experiments. We show that the data from XENON1T and Borexino set limits on the annihilation and decay rates of dark matter particles with masses in the keV to few MeV range. All relevant final states are considered: annihilation into γγ and e−e+ and decays into γγ, γν, and e−e+. The expected sensitivities in XENONnT, DARWIN, JUNO, and THEIA are also computed. Though weaker than current astrophysical bounds, the laboratory limits (and projections) obtained are free from the usual astrophysical uncertainties associated with J-factors and unknown backgrounds, and may thus offer a complementary probe of the dark matter properties. We point out that current and future (astro)particle physics detectors might also be used to set analogous limits for different decays and dark matter masses above a few MeV.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for coronavirus disease 2019-related acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Short Briana , Abrams Darryl , Brodie Daniel
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

To understand the potential role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), highlighting evolving practices and outcomes.

Recent findings

The role for ECMO in COVID-19-related ARDS has evolved throughout the pandemic. Early reports of high mortality led to some to advocate for withholding ECMO in this setting. Subsequent data suggested mortality rates were on par with those from studies conducted prior to the pandemic. However, outcomes are evolving and mortality in these patients may be worsening with time.

ECMO has an established role in the treatment of severe forms of ARDS. Current data suggest adherence to the currently accepted algorithm for management of ARDS, including the use of ECMO. However, planning related to resource utilization and strain on healthcare systems are necessary to determine the feasibility of ECMO in specific regions at any given time. Utilization of national and local networks, pooling of resources and ECMO mobilization units are important to optimize access to ECMO as appropriate. Reported complications of ECMO in the setting of COVID-19-related ARDS have been predominantly similar to those reported in studies of non-COVID-19-related ARDS. Further high-quality research is needed.
COVID-19 mRNA vaccine allergy
Authors: Risma Kimberly A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

A known history of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of the vaccine is the only contraindication to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccination. It is important for pediatricians to understand the likelihood of an allergic reaction to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, including its excipients.

Recent findings

Episodes concerning for anaphylaxis were immediately reported following early administration of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines to adults. Although allergic type symptoms were reported equally in recipients of placebos and test vaccines in phase 3 clinical trials, post-authorization prospective studies state that 0.2–2% of vaccine recipients have experienced allergic reactions. Subsequent allergy testing of affected individuals has focused largely on evaluation of allergic sensitization to a novel vaccine excipient, polyethylene glycol (PEG). PEG is a polymer incorporated in numerous pharmaceutical products because of its favorable, inert properties. The results of allergy testing in adults to date indicate that IgE mediated anaphylaxis to PEG allergy is rarely identified after COVID-19 mRNA vaccine reactions. Numerous individuals with presumed anaphylaxis have tolerated a second vaccine after evaluation and testing by an allergist, suggesting either misdiagnosis or a novel immune mechanism.

Confirmed anaphylactic reactions to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are rare, likely due to a lack of preexisting IgE against the vaccine components, including PEG.
Progress in understanding climate change's effects on children and youth
Authors: Brodie Nicola , Silberholz Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose of review

Climate change remains a major threat to the health and well-being of children globally. This article reviews the myriad health effects of climate change on children throughout their lives and discusses ways in which the general pediatrician can be an advocate for climate solutions.

Recent findings

Rising atmospheric temperatures, increased air pollution, and destabilized weather patterns all lead to adverse health outcomes for children and adverse obstetric outcomes. However, the impact of climate change is not evenly distributed. Children living in poverty are more likely to be adversely impacted by the changing climate.

Ongoing and emerging research suggests that children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The primary care pediatrician is encouraged to see this irrefutable evidence as a call to action for advocacy on behalf of our patients and the planet.
Photometric and Colorimetric Evaluation of Phototherapy Instruments for Syntonic Treatment of Visual Anomalies
Authors: López de la Fuente Carmen , Sánchez-Cano Ana Isabel
Published: October 2021

SIGNIFICANCE

Ocular light exposure therapy has been used in optometric therapies to improve binocular anomalies such as accommodative or vergence dysfunctions, amblyopia therapy or to increase the visual field. Currently, syntonic phototherapy is used worldwide by behavioral optometrists, vision trainers, or occupational therapists, among others, although these treatments are supported by only a few research studies that lack consensus on the efficacy of this approach.

PURPOSE

In this article, we highlight the optical characteristics of lamps without evaluating the efficacy of their use in optometric procedures.

METHODS

Our work analyzes four devices often used in clinical practice in terms of spectral power distribution, illuminance levels at the corneal plane, and both theoretical photopic and melanopic contributions to the visual system.

RESULTS

First, illuminance levels reaching the corneal plane depend on the characteristics of each lamp and their distance from where the eye should be positioned; for example, delta-theta filter photopic illuminance is 13.1, 93.7, 22.7, or 41.6 lux with the four evaluated devices. Second, filters or modes named the same differ in terms of their spectral power distribution. Third, substantial difference in color appearance has been found among the same configurations.

CONCLUSIONS

The spectral and iluminance characteristics of syntonic systems used for vision therapy vary widely, including variations among filters with the same identifying characteristics. This provides significant sources of variability, which limit the ability to conduct evidence-based medicine clinical trials to assess the true efficacy of syntonic therapy. This study furthers our knowledge of syntonic phototherapy from a technical perspective; however, longitudinal research examining patients' evolution pre-lighting and post-lighting treatments is required to justify and understand the effects of light exposure and its impact on optometric and ocular parameters more clearly.
Carboxypeptidase A1 (CPA1) Immunohistochemistry Is Highly Sensitive and Specific for Acinar Cell Carcinoma (ACC) of the Pancreas
Authors: Uhlig Ria , Contreras Hendrina , Weidemann Sören , Gorbokon Natalia , Menz Anne , Büscheck Franziska , Luebke Andreas M. , Kluth Martina , Hube-Magg Claudia , Hinsch Andrea , Höflmayer Doris , Fraune Christoph , Möller Katharina , Bernreuther Christian , Lebok Patrick , Sauter Guido , Wilczak Waldemar , Izbicki Jakob , Perez Daniel , Schrader Jörg , Steurer Stefan , Burandt Eike , Krech Rainer , Dum David , Krech Till , Marx Andreas , Simon Ronald , Minner Sarah , Jacobsen Frank , Clauditz Till S.
Published: October 2021

Carboxypeptidase A1 (CPA1) is a zinc metalloprotease that is produced in pancreatic acinar cells and plays a role in cleaving C-terminal branched-chain and aromatic amino acids from dietary proteins. This study assessed the utility of immunohistochemical CPA1 staining for diagnosing pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (ACC). A total of 12,274 tumor samples from 132 different tumor types and subtypes as well as 8 samples each of 76 different normal tissue types were interpretable by immunohistochemistry in a tissue microarray format. CPA1 was strongly expressed in acinar cells of all normal pancreas samples but not in any other normal tissues. CPA1 immunostaining was detected in 100% of 11 pancreatic ACCs and 1 mixed acinar endocrine carcinoma, but absent in 449 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, 75 adenocarcinomas of the ampulla Vateri, and 11,739 other evaluable cancers from 128 different tumor entities. A weak to moderate diffuse staining of epithelial and stromal cells of cancer tissues immediately adjacent to non-neoplastic pancreatic acinar cells often occurred and was considered to be caused by the diffusion of the highly abundant CPA1 from normal acinar cells that may have suffered some autolytic cell damage. In conclusion, our data show that CPA1 is a highly sensitive and largely specific marker for normal and neoplastic pancreatic acinar cells. CPA1 immunohistochemistry greatly facilitates the otherwise often difficult diagnosis of pancreatic ACC.
Extending Trauma Quality Improvement Beyond Trauma Centers
Authors: Jenkins Peter C. , Timsina Lava , Murphy Patrick , Tignanelli Christopher , Holena Daniel N. , Hemmila Mark R. , Newgard Craig
Published: October 2021

Objective:

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) conducts a robust quality improvement program for ACS-verified trauma centers, yet many injured patients receive care at non-accredited facilities. This study tested for variation in outcomes across non-trauma hospitals and characterized hospitals associated with increased mortality.

Summary Background Data:

The study included state trauma registry data of 37,670 patients treated between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2015. Clinical data were supplemented with data from the American Hospital Association and US Department of Agriculture, allowing comparisons among 100 nontrauma hospitals.

Methods:

Using Bayesian techniques, risk-adjusted and reliability-adjusted rates of mortality and interfacility transfer, as well as Emergency Departments length-of-stay (ED-LOS) among patients transferred from EDs were calculated for each hospital. Subgroup analyses were performed for patients ages >55 years and those with decreased Glasgow coma scores (GCS). Multiple imputation was used to address missing data.

Results:

Mortality varied 3-fold (0.9%–3.1%); interfacility transfer rates varied 46-fold (2.1%–95.6%); and mean ED-LOS varied 3-fold (81–231 minutes). Hospitals that were high and low statistical outliers were identified for each outcome, and subgroup analyses demonstrated comparable hospital variation. Metropolitan hospitals were associated increased mortality [odds ratio (OR) 1.7, P = 0.004], decreased likelihood of interfacility transfer (OR 0.7, P ≤ 0.001), and increased ED-LOS (coef. 0.1, P ≤ 0.001) when compared with nonmetropolitan hospitals and risk-adjusted.

Conclusions:

Wide variation in trauma outcomes exists across nontrauma hospitals. Efforts to improve trauma quality should include engagement of nontrauma hospitals to reduce variation in outcomes of injured patients treated at those facilities.
Regulation of protein secretion through chemical regulation of endoplasmic reticulum retention signal cleavage
Authors: Praznik Arne , Fink Tina , Franko Nik , Lonzarić Jan , Benčina Mojca , Jerala Nina , Plaper Tjaša , Roškar Samo , Jerala Roman
Published: October 2021

Secreted proteins, such as hormones or cytokines, are key mediators in multicellular organisms. Protein secretion based on transcriptional control is rather slow, as proteins requires transcription, translation, followed by the transport from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) through the conventional protein secretion (CPS) pathway towards the plasma membrane. An alternative faster bypass would be valuable. Here we present two genetically encoded orthogonal secretion systems, which rely on the retention of pre-synthesized proteins on the ER membrane (membER, released by cytosolic protease) or inside the ER lumen (lumER, released by ER luminal protease), respectively, and their release by the chemical signal-regulated proteolytic removal of an ER-retention signal, without triggering ER stress due to protein aggregates. Design of orthogonal chemically-regulated split proteases enables precise combination of signals into logic functions and was demonstrated on a chemically regulated insulin secretion. Regulation of ER escape represents a platform for the design of fast responsive and tightly-controlled modular and scalable protein secretion system.

Abstract Figure

Abstract figure:

membER and lumER system.

By equipping a protein of interest (POI) with an N-terminal signaling sequence, which initiates the transport of proteins into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and a C-terminal KDEL ER retention sequence for luminal proteins or a KKXX sequence for transmembrane proteins, we can retain those proteins inside the ER and cis-Golgi apparatus (GA) through retrograde transport. Insertion of a protease cleavage site adjacent to the retention signal allows for the regulated fast secretion through proteolytic cleavage. The membrane bound, ER membrane (membER) and ER-luminal (lumER) systems allow for the controlled secretion of pre-synthesized protein, stored inside the ER. This platform enables release of target proteins several hours faster than systems relying transcription and translation.
Optogenetic activation of basolateral amygdala projections to nucleus accumbens core promotes cue-induced expectation of reward but not instrumental pursuit of cues
Authors: Servonnet Alice , Rompré Pierre-Paul , Samaha Anne-Noël
Published: October 2021

Reward-associated conditioned stimuli (CS) can acquire predictive value, evoking conditioned approach behaviors that prepare animals to engage with forthcoming rewards. Such CS can also acquire conditioned reinforcing value, becoming attractive and pursued. Through their predictive and conditioned reinforcing properties, CS can promote adaptive (e.g., locating food) but also maladaptive responses (e.g., drug use). Basolateral amygdala neurons projecting to the nucleus accumbens core (BLA→NAc core neurons) mediate the response to appetitive CS, but the extent to which this involves effects on the predictive and/or conditioned reinforcing properties of CS is unclear. Thus, we examined the effects of optogenetic stimulation of BLA→NAc core neurons on conditioned approach behavior and on the instrumental pursuit of a CS, the latter a measure of conditioned reinforcement. Water-restricted, adult male rats learned that a light-tone compound cue (CS) predicts water delivery. Pairing optogenetic stimulation of BLA→NAc core neurons with CS presentation potentiated conditioned approach behavior, and did so even under extinction conditions, when water was omitted. This suggests that BLA→NAc core neurons promote cue-induced expectation of rewards. Rats also received instrumental conditioning sessions during which they could lever press for CS presentations, without water delivery. Optogenetic stimulation of BLA→NAc core neurons either during these instrumental test sessions or during prior CS-water conditioning did not influence lever responding for the CS. This suggests that BLA→NAc core neurons do not influence the conditioned reinforcing effects of CS. We conclude that BLA→NAc core neurons promote cue-induced control over behavior by increasing cue-triggered anticipation of rewards, without influencing cue ‘wanting’.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Environmental cues associated with rewards guide animals toward rewards essential for survival such as food. Reward-associated cues can also evoke maladaptive responses such as in addiction. Reward cues guide behavior in two major ways. First, they evoke approach toward imminent rewards, preparing animals to engage with these rewards. Second, cues can become attractive themselves, such that animals will learn new behaviors simply to obtain them. Here we show that activation of basolateral amygdala neurons projecting to the nucleus accumbens core increases cue-induced approach to the location of reward, without influencing the pursuit of reward cues. Thus, these amygdala-to-accumbens neurons promote cue-induced expectation of reward, without changing the attractiveness of cues.
A CRISPR-Cas9-based system for the dose-dependent study of DNA double-strand breaks sensing and repair
Authors: Coiffard Jocelyn , Kumanski Sylvain , Santt Olivier , Pardo Benjamin , Moriel-Carretero María
Published: October 2021

The integrity of DNA is put at risk by different lesions, among which double strand breaks (DSBs) occur at low frequency, yet remain one of the most life-threatening harms. The study of DSB repair requests tools provoking their accumulation, and include the use of chemical genotoxins, ionizing radiations or the expression of sequence-specific nucleases. While genotoxins and irradiation allow for dose-dependent studies, nuclease expression permits assessments at precise locations. In this work, we have exploited the repetitiveness of the Ty transposon elements in the genome ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeand the cutting activity of the RNA-guided Cas9 nuclease to create a tool that combines sequence specificity and dose-dependency. In particular, we can achieve the controlled induction of 0, 1, 15 or 59 DSBs in cells with an otherwise identical genetic background. We make the first application of this tool to better understand the behavior of the apical kinase of the DNA damage response Tel1 in the nuclear space. We found that Tel1 is capable of forming nuclear foci, which are clustered by condensing when DSBs occur in Ty elements. In striking contrast with other DSB-related protein foci, Tel1 foci are in tight contact with the nuclear periphery, therefore suggesting a role for the nuclear membrane in their congregation.
Developmental Dynamics of RNA Translation in the Human Brain
Authors: Duffy Erin E. , Finander Benjamin , Choi GiHun , Carter Ava C. , Pritisanac Iva , Alam Aqsa , Luria Victor , Karger Amir , Phu William , Sherman Maxwell A. , Assad Elena G. , Khitun Alexandra , Crouch Elizabeth E. , Ganesh Sanika , Berger Bonnie , Sestan Nenad , O’Donnell-Luria Anne , Huang Eric , Griffith Eric C. , Forman-Kay Julie D. , Moses Alan M. , Kalish Brian T. , Greenberg Michael E.
Published: October 2021

The precise regulation of gene expression is fundamental to neurodevelopment, plasticity, and cognitive function. While several studies have deeply profiled mRNA dynamics in the developing human brain, there is a fundamental gap in our understanding of accompanying translational regulation. We perform ribosome profiling from more than 70 human prenatal and adult cortex samples across ontogeny and into adulthood, mapping translation events at nucleotide resolution. In addition to characterizing the translational regulation of annotated open reading frames (ORFs), we identify thousands of previously unknown translation events, including small open reading frames (sORFs) that give rise to human- and/or brain-specific microproteins, many of which we independently verify using size-selected proteomics. Ribosome profiling in stem cell-derived human neuronal cultures further corroborates these findings and shows that several neuronal activity-induced long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), including LINC00473, a primate-specific lncRNA implicated in depression, encode previously undescribed microproteins. Physicochemical analysis of these brain microproteinss identifies a large class harboring arginine-glycine-glycine (RGG) repeats as strong candidates for regulating RNA metabolism. Moreover, we find that, collectively, these previously unknown human brain sORFs are enriched for variants associated with schizophrenia. In addition to significantly expanding the translational landscape of the developing brain, this atlas will serve as a rich resource for the annotation and functional interrogation of thousands of previously unknown brain-specific protein products.
A review of integrated library systems and web-scale discovery services in India
Authors: Balaji B. Preedip , M. S. Vinay , K. V. Anitha , Khan Mohd Raqib , E. Edwin , B.G. Shalini
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine integrated library systems (ILS) and web-scale discovery services (WSDS) of the National Institute of Ranking Framework’s (NIRF) top-ranked universities for the “Overall” category in the 2020 rankings. Further, the authors analyse how the ILS-WSDS transitions work in the academic libraries of higher educational institutions (HEIs) in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The 200 top-ranked institutions in the NIRF rankings 2020 were chosen to evaluate their ILS-WSDS systems available through their library websites. Out of ten categories of NIRF rankings, the “Overall” category was selected as the institutions ranked under this category are discipline-independent and have a minimum of 1,000 full-time students in their undergraduate and graduate programmes.

Findings

The authors found that Koha is a leading ILS with 52 libraries (26%), followed by LibSys with 18 institutions (9%), SOUL with ten institutions (5%), AutoLib with eight institutions (4%), VTLS and NewGenLib with four institutions each (2%) and SLIM with three institutions (1.5%). In regards to WSDS, 73 institutions use Knimbus (36.5%), followed by 12 institutions using EBSCO Discovery Services (6%), two institutions using Ex Libris Summon and others include LS Discovery, VuFind and independent platform each at 0.5%. At the core of technology adoption, for the ILS to WSDS transitions, the uptake is found to be rather slow.

Originality/value

Many studies have explored ILS and WSDS India. However, this study attempts to assess the ILS in comparison with discovery services at academic libraries in the top ranking HEIs in India.
The role of capabilities in shaping sustainable supply chain flexibility and enhancing circular economy-target performance: an empirical study
Authors: Bag Surajit , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir
Published: October 2021

Purpose

A circular economy is a popular approach considered by many firms to address sustainable development goals strategically. Literature indicates that collaborative relationships among supply chain partners facilitate circular economy practices. However, there is a dearth of studies in lower-middle-income countries indicating the unique challenges industries face whilst practising circular economy principles and how the challenges can be overcome. To address the calls of previous researchers, this study aims to explore the following relationships: engagement and alliance capability whilst data analytics capability plays a mediating role; the relationship between alliance and data analytics capability with sustainable supply chain flexibility whilst industry dynamism is considered as a moderating variable and the relationship between sustainable supply chain flexibility and circular economy-target performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was performed and data was collected from 760 employees of Indian firms. Covariance-based structural equation modelling was applied to perform the path analysis to determine a firm’s capabilities in shaping sustainable supply chain flexibility and enhancing circular economy target performance.

Findings

Drawing upon dynamic capability theory, it was first established that engagement capability has a positive and significant influence on alliance capability, whilst data analytics capability played a partial mediating role. Second, it was established that alliance capability and data analytics capability significantly affect sustainable supply chain flexibility, whilst industry dynamism played a moderating role. Finally, it was clear that sustainable supply chain flexibility had a significant and positive effect on circular economy target performance, ultimately enhancing sustainability.

Originality/value

This study advances the circular economy literature by recommending that firms must consider some critical operational level capabilities to develop their dynamic capability, i.e. sustainable supply chain flexibility, to better meet the competitive market conditions in turbulent business environments.
Political tolerance in Canada: Are religious Canadians and Americans more intolerant?
Authors: Reimer Sam
Published: October 2021

Political tolerance, defined as a willingness to grant civil liberties to disliked groups, has historically been viewed as necessary for liberal democracies. Canada is known as a tolerant country, but very little research exists on political tolerance in Canada. Using the “least‐liked” measure of political tolerance, I show that Canada has lower levels of political tolerance than the U.S., and that religiosity—particularly committed and conservative religiosity—is unrelated to political tolerance.
Emotions and involvement of foster carers preparing to welcome children arriving from war zones
Authors: Euillet Séverine , Hilbold Mej , Ganne Claire , Faisca Elodie , Turlais Amélie
Published: October 2021

In France, the fosterage of children arriving from war zones is rather marginal and does require the consideration of two major issues: emotions and commitment, both at stake among the foster carers. These issues can be apprehended through the way in which professionals conceive their work, their relationship with the child, but also the singular and specific nature of these children's situation. We, therefore, conducted a qualitative study in the field of Educational Sciences using semi‐structured interviews to gather the experience of 11 foster carers preparing to welcome French children coming from war zones. The analysis of their discourses shows that this exceptional situation reinforces their involvement and their emotional bond. The time devoted to the preparation of the child's reception is precious as it gives meaning to the work, arouses ambivalent emotions and builds an imaginary child.
Comparative analysis of phasic left atrial strain and left ventricular posterolateral strain pattern to discriminate Fabry cardiomyopathy from other forms of left ventricular hypertrophy
Authors: Frumkin David , Mattig Isabel , Laule Nina , Al Daas Maamoun , Canaan‐Kühl Sima , Knebel Fabian , Stangl Karl , Brand Anna
Published: October 2021

Background

“Classical” echocardiographic signs of Fabry cardiomyopathy (FC), such as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), posterolateral strain impairment (PLSI), and papillary muscle hypertrophy may be of limited diagnostic accuracy in clinical practice. Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic value of left atrial (LA) strain impairment compared to “classical” echocardiographic findings to discriminate FC.

Methods

In standard echocardiographic assessments, we retrospectively analyzed the diagnostic value of the “classical” red flags of FC as well as LA strain in 20 FC patients and in 20 subjects with other causes of LVH. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to assess the respective diagnostic accuracy.

Results

FC was confirmed in 20 patients by genetic testing. In the LVH group, 12 patients were classified by biopsy to have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, two had hypertensive heart disease, and six LVH combined with borderline myocarditis. Global and regional left ventricular (LV) strain was not significantly different between groups while LA strain was significantly impaired in FC (Left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) 19.1%±8.4 in FC and 25.6%±8.9 in LVH, p = 0.009; left atrial conduction strain (LAScd) ‐8.4%±4.9 in FC and ‐15.9%±8.4 in LVH, p < 0.01). LAScd, with an area under the curve (AUC) of .81 (95% confidence interval [CI] .66–.96) showed the highest diagnostic accuracy to discriminate FC. The PLSI pattern showed an AUC of .49, quantification of papillary muscle hypertrophy an AUC of .47.

Conclusion

Adding LA strain analysis to a comprehensive echocardiographic work‐up of unclear LVH may be helpful to identify FC as a possible cause.
Anticoagulation prescribing practice following ischaemic strokes in the setting of non‐valvular atrial fibrillation
Authors: Tan Shuangyue , Williams Cameron , Choi Philip
Published: October 2021

It is well established that anticoagulation following an ischaemic stroke in the setting of non‐valvular atrial fibrillation is an effective means of secondary prevention. However, there is a lack of a solid evidence base to guide both the agent choice and the optimal timing in which to initiate anticoagulation therapy. The decision is complex, and consideration is required to balance the risks between recurrent strokes and potentially causing or exacerbating parenchymal haemorrhages. A clinical audit was performed at a high‐volume primary stroke centre looking at anticoagulation prescribing practices among neurologists. We found apixaban was by far the anticoagulation of choice for non‐valvular atrial fibrillation. The median time to anticoagulation initiation was Day 1 post transient ischaemic attack, Day 2 post small infarcts, Day 4 post moderate infarcts and Day 5 post large infarcts.
Pre‐eruptive intracoronal radiolucencies in permanent dentition of children in Tamil Nadu—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Asokan Sharath , Geethapriya P. R. , Varshini R Kirthi , CS Sri Darshini
Published: October 2021

Background

Pre‐eruptive intracoronal radiolucency (PEIR) poses a challenge to paediatric dentists as it cannot be clinically detected.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence and coexisting factors of PEIR in permanent teeth of children and adolescents in western Tamil Nadu, India.

Design

This cross‐sectional study assessed 5012 digital panoramic radiographs of children and adolescents below 14 years of age obtained from private digital imaging centers, dental clinics, and dental colleges located in five districts of western Tamil Nadu. The prevalence and PEIR and its coexisting factors were assessed by two independent calibrated investigators. Data were analyzed using the chi‐square test.

Results

The subject prevalence and tooth prevalence of PEIR were estimated to be 3.2% and 0.4%, respectively. Maxillary canines and mandibular premolars were commonly involved. Majority of the lesions were limited to less than one‐third of dentin thickness (74%) and distal aspect of the crown (45.1%). Ectopic positioning (9.3%) and dental caries in the preceding primary tooth (9.9%) were the most common coexisting factors.

Conclusion

Pre‐Eruptive Intracoronal Radiolucency defects were commonly seen in maxillary canines, mandibular premolars, and distal aspect of the crown involving less than one‐third dentin thickness. Ectopic positioning and caries in primary teeth were commonly seen along with the PEIR defects.
Soil water depletion of peanut subspecies as influenced by water‐use traits and soil water availability
Authors: Zurweller Brendan A. , Rowland Diane L. , Tillman Barry L. , Payton Paxton , Erickson J. , Racette Kelly , Carter Ethan
Published: October 2021

While improved crop water‐deficit tolerance is considered of primary importance, many phenotyping efforts focusing on quantifying structural root traits make assumptions about architecture representing root function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to quantify whole plant water‐use traits among disparate peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes and determine their impact on water‐deficit tolerance. Mini‐rhizotrons were installed to evaluate genotypic root architecture and developmental changes to two irrigation regimes imposed during early development. Following the early‐season irrigation regimes, above‐ and below‐ground traits were studied across a range of soil water conditions through measures of: (a) leaf‐level gas exchange and (b) soil water depletion quantified using a novel soil water probe inserted into mini‐rhizotrons allowing for matched root architecture and soil water depletion measures. While differential water treatments influenced root system architecture development among the genotypes, soil water depletion locations were primarily determined by water availability in the soil profile, not simply by having greater root length at a given soil location. This contradicts the assumption that greater root presence is a consistent indicator of increased root activity. Phenotypic selection of root traits for improving the efficiency of crop water use should consider both structural and functional traits in relation to the intended production environments slated for future cultivar development.
Prediction method of shelf life of damaged Korla fragrant pears
Authors: Yu Shihui , Lan Haipeng , Li Xiaolong , Zhang Hong , Zeng Yong , Niu Hao , Niu Xiyue , Xiao Ailing , Liu Yang
Published: October 2021

To scientifically and effectively predict the shelf life of damaged Korla fragrant pears, this paper explores the effects of maturity, storage temperature, and damage degree on their shelf life, which was furthermore predicted employing three neural network modeling methods: Back Propagation Neural Network, General Regression Neural Network (GRNN), and Adaptive Network‐based Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS). A prediction model was then built to achieve the optimal prediction of the shelf life of damaged Korla fragrant pears. The results suggest that maturity, storage temperature, and damage degree exert a significant effect on the shelf life of fragrant pears, and are inversely proportional to the shelf life length; the damaged fragrant pears still have storage value, which can be stored at low temperature according to different damage degree to prolong the shelf life of damaged fragrant pears; the prediction model of maturity, storage temperature, and damage degree on the shelf life of fragrant pears is built based on well‐trained neural networks using the GRNN and ANFIS model, and the ANFIS model with gaussmf input membership function yields the best performance in predicting the shelf life of damaged fragrant pears (root mean square error = 3.5190; R2 = 0.9881). The results offer theoretical guidance for the selection of optimal storage conditions and the effective prediction of the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.

Practical applications

Before the Korla fragrant pears are stored in the warehouse, the practitioners will directly discard damaged fruits, causing a lot of waste and economic losses. The damaged fragrant pears can be temporarily stored and preserved, and they can be processed and sold in time before the end of the critical shelf life, thereby increasing the economic income of practitioners. Therefore, three neural networks—Back Propagation Neural Network, General Regression Neural Network, and Adaptive Network‐based Fuzzy Inference System—are evaluated for their ability to predict the shelf life of damaged fragrant pears. A shelf life model of damaged fragrant pears is then constructed and screened out, and employed to realize the prediction of the shelf life of damaged fragrant pears. This method is also suitable for predicting the shelf life of other damaged fruits.
Human semicircular canal form: Ontogenetic changes and variation of shape and size
Authors: Cárdenas‐Serna Marcela , Jeffery Nathan
Published: October 2021

The semicircular canals (SCCs) transduce angular acceleration of the head into neuronal signals, and their morphology has been used to infer function. Once formed, the bony labyrinth, that surrounds the canals, is tightly regulated and has a very low bone turnover. However, relaxed postnatal inhibition of bone remodelling later in ontogeny may allow for some organised adjustments of shape and size or for greater stochastic variation. In the present study, we test the hypotheses that after birth, the shape and size of the bony canal changes or becomes more variable, or both. We study microCT scans of human perinatal and adult temporal bones using a combination of geometric morphometric analysis and cross‐sectional measures. Results revealed marginal differences of size (<5%), of cross‐sectional shape and of measurement variability. Geometry of the three canals together and their cross‐sectional areas were, however, indistinguishable between perinates and adults. These mixed findings are indicative of diminutive levels of relaxed inhibition superimposed over a constrained template of SCC morphology.
Ecological studies of colonized invertebrate communities on cultivated seaweeds in a typical mariculture zone, China
Authors: Wang Qing , Ren Hui , Yang Yufeng
Published: October 2021

The invertebrate communities on floating cultivated seaweeds were studied by both field surveys and experiments in order to analyze community structure in a typical mariculture zone, Nanao, South China. Samples of invertebrates were collected from the water and the thalli of the seaweeds, Gracilaria lemaneiformis and G. chouae. The results showed that both species were rapidly colonized by invertebrates after being introduced into the mariculture region. The communities on the seaweeds were significantly different from those in the ambient waters. Invertebrate abundance was much higher in the seaweed than in the water. The high proportion of larvae indicates that these species are using the seaweed thalli as a platform for reproduction. Therefore, large‐scale seaweed cultivation is beneficial for colonization of invertebrates and shelters higher numbers of copepod larvae than in the sea. This drives ecological changes in the invertebrate communities in coastal ecosystems and facilitates interactions with other communities and higher trophic levels in the cultivated seaweed food web. We propose a conceptual model that summarizes the results from this study and guides future studies on the relationships between seaweed and the invertebrate community.
Food web aggregation: effects on key positions
Authors: Giacomuzzo Emanuele , Jordán Ferenc
Published: October 2021

Food webs are often simulated dynamically to explore how trophic interactions influence resource and consumer abundances. As large trophic networks cannot be simulated in their original size – it would be too computationally expansive – they are shrunk by aggregating species together. However, key species may get lumped during this process, masking their unique role in their ecosystem. Therefore, a more systematic understanding of the aggregation effects on key positions is needed. Here, we study how six aggregation methods change 24 importance indices used to find key species in food webs. Our work was carried out on 76 aquatic food webs from the Ecopath with Ecosim database (EcoBase). The aggregation methods we considered were: 1) hierarchical clustering with the Jaccard index; 2) hierarchical clustering with the REGE index; 3) clustering within classic food web modules, which we refer to as ‘density‐based' modules; 4) clustering within ‘predator‐based modules' in which species fed on the same preys; 5) clustering within ‘prey‐based modules' in which species are fed upon by the same predators; and 6) clustering within ‘groups' in which species share the same probability to interact with other groups. Hierarchical clustering with the REGE index produced the best results. Therefore, we recommend using it if we were interested in maintaining the identity of key species. The other algorithms could also be used to study specific network processes. However, we need to consider the bias they produce when masking important species.
Portal Setup: the Key Point in the Learning Curve for Hip Arthroscopy Technique
Authors: Haipeng Li , Ji Li , Juanli Zhu , Lijun Shi , Yujie Liu , Zhongli Li , Zhigang Wang , Lu Kong , Chunbao Li
Published: October 2021

Objective

To analyze the learning curve experience of hip arthroscopy based on patient demographics, surgical time, portal setup time, and postoperative complications and to find the key point in the learning curve.

Methods

From May 2016 to February 2019, a prospective study on the learning curve experience of hip arthroscopy was performed in our hospital. We evaluated the first 50 consecutive hip arthroscopy procedures performed by a single surgeon. There were nine females and 41 males with a mean age of 30.8 years. We divide the patients into early group and late group according to the date of their operation, with each group including 25 patients. Data on patient demographics, types of procedure, surgical time, portal setup time, and postoperative complications were collected. Functional scores were assessed with the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS).

Results

Patients were followed up for 16.4 months on average (range, 13–27 months). The early group of patients had a mean age of 35.2 years and the late group a mean age of 26.5 years. The most common procedures performed for the early group were debridement (17 patients, 68%), and in the late group, most patients underwent labral repair (18 patients, 72%). Mean total surgical time was 168 min for the early group and 143 min for the late group, and there was no statistically significant difference between two groups. The portal setup time in the early group and late group was 40.2 ± 12.4 min and 18.5 ± 6.2 min, respectively (P < 0.001), and the portal setup time was significantly longer in the early group. Further analysis of the learning curve of portal setup showed that the average portal setup time was not statistically significant changed after 30 cases. There were six complications including iatrogenic cartilage injury and iatrogenic labrum injury in the early group and five complications including perineal crush injury and nerve stretch injury in the late group. The functional score of patients in the late group was significantly higher than that in the early group during follow‐up.

Conclusion

The steep learning curve of hip arthroscopy is mainly caused by the challenge of portal setup and portalrelated complications were more common in the early group than in the late group. Surgical time is not an effective indicator for evaluating progress on the learning curve of hip arthroscopy.
Application of fuzzy logic for adaptability and stability studies in flood‐irrigated rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: da Silva Júnior Antônio Carlos , da Silva Michele Jorge , da Costa Weverton Gomes , de Sousa Ithalo Coelho , Cruz Cosme Damião , Nascimento Moysés , Soares Plínio César
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to use fuzzy logic as an auxiliary tool in the assessment of adaptability and stability, using grain‐yield data from flood‐irrigated rice, evaluated in different agricultural years. Eighteen rice genotypes belonging to flood‐irrigated rice breeding programme were evaluated over four agricultural years, 2012/2013 to 2015/2016, totalling 12 environments (3 sites × 4 years). The methodologies of Eberhart and Russell (1966), Lin and Binns (1988) modified by Carneiro (1998) and Centroid's were used. Fuzzy logic was applied to the results of these methodologies as a tool for interpretation and decision‐making regarding the recommendation of genotypes. Performances of the different flood‐irrigated rice genotypes were influenced by environmental conditions, thereby justifying the use of multiple adaptability and stability methodologies. The use of fuzzy logic in the selection of flood‐irrigated rice genotypes is a useful and promising tool in breeding programmes, allowing information from different parameters to be used to understand the influence of environmental variations on the performance of crop genotypes.