bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deterrence through Inflicting Costs: Between Deterrence by Punishment and Deterrence by Denial
Authors: Lupovici Amir
Published: July 2023

The strategy of deterrence by denial is widely used by different actors. Despite its prominence, however, the scholarship on deterrence by denial stands to be developed further. It lags behind scholarship on deterrence by punishment on two points: in identifying the conditions under which the strategy works and in examining elements affecting its adoption. Deterrence by denial also carries some conceptual ambiguity since its employment takes many significantly different forms and also because it overlaps with deterrence by punishment. Despite the emphasis in current scholarship on “inflicting costs” as a defining element of deterrence by punishment, costs arguably also play a significant role in deterrence by denial. To address these challenges, I distinguish between deterrence strategies by focusing on two main elements: the means the deterrer actor threatens to use (offensive or non-offensive) and the timing of the threatened use of these means (before or after the unwanted activity). This offers a more nuanced distinction between deterrence strategies and better encompasses the role of inflicting costs in deterrence by denial. I suggest that this research offers a useful point of departure to further theorize about deterrence by denial, and it sets a promising research agenda that is pertinent given the growing interest in deterrence by denial, especially in its application to cyber deterrence.
Natural cordiaquinones as strategies to inhibit the growth and biofilm formation of methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistantStaphylococcusspp
Authors: de Oliveira Mariana Araújo , Barros Ayslan Batista , de Araújo Gisele Santos , de Araújo Alyne Rodrigues , José dos Santos Soares Maria , de Oliveira Daiane Fernandes , Lima Filipe Camargo Dalmatti Alves , Batagin-Neto Augusto , Leite José Roberto de Souza de Almeida , Cesário Hozana Patrícia Silva de Freitas , Pessoa Otília Deusdênia Loiola , Filho José Delano Barreto Marinho , Araújo Ana Jérsia
Published: July 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of cordiaquinones B, E, L, N, and O against different Staphylococci strains, in addition to analyzing in silico the observed effect.

Methods and results

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined according to CLSI guidelines. The inhibition of biofilm formation was investigated at sub-MICs. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and density functional theory method were performed. The tested strains of Staphylococcus spp. were susceptible to cordiaquinones B, E, and L, among which cordiaquinone B exerted a bactericidal effect, confirmed by a bacterial growth curve study, against Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Cordiaquinones B and E showed lowest MBC values against S. saprophyticus. AFM revealed that cordiaquinone L reduced the mean cell size of S. saprophyticus. Cordiaquinones B and E inhibited the biofilm formation ability of S. aureus by ∼90%. The in silico analysis suggested that the antimicrobial activity of cordiaquinones is driven by their electron donation capability.

Conclusions

Cordiaquinones inhibit the growth and biofilm formation (virulence factor) of both methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococci strains, indicating their antimicrobial potential.
Optimization of solid-state fermentation for enhanced production of pectinolytic complex by Aspergillus tubingensis FAT43 and its application in fruit juice processing
Authors: Pavlović Marija , Šokarda Slavić Marinela , Ristović Marina , Stojanović Sanja , Margetić Aleksandra , Momčilović Miloš , Vujčić Zoran
Published: July 2023

The main goal of this study was to examine the efficiency of a newly isolated fungus from quince, Aspergillus tubingensis FAT43, to produce the pectinolytic complex using agricultural and industrial waste as the substrate for solid state fermentation. Sugar beet pulp was the most effective substrate inducer of pectinolytic complex synthesis out of all the waste residues examined. For endo-pectinolytic and total pectinolytic activity, respectively, statistical optimization using Placked-Burman Design and Optimal (Custom) Design increased production by 2.22 and 2.15-fold, respectively. Liquification, clarification, and an increase in the amount of reducing sugar in fruit juices (apple, banana, apricot, orange, and quince) processed with pectinolytic complex were identified. Enzymatic pre-treatment considerably increases yield (14%–22%) and clarification (90%). After enzymatic treatment, the best liquefaction was observed in orange juice, whereas the best clarification was obtained in apricot juice. Additionally, the pectinolytic treatment of apricot juice resulted in the highest increase in reducing sugar concentration (11%) compared to all other enzymatically treated juices. Optimizing the production of a highly active pectinolytic complex and its efficient utilization in the processing of fruit juices, including the generation of an increasing amount of waste, are the significant outcomes of this research.
Day and night: habitability of tidally locked planets with sporadic rotation
Authors: Shakespeare Cody J , Steffen Jason H
Published: July 2023

Tidally locked worlds provide a unique opportunity for constraining the probable climates of certain exoplanets. They are unique in that few exoplanet spin and obliquity states are known or will be determined in the near future: both of which are critical in modelling climate. A recent study shows the dynamical conditions present in the TRAPPIST-1 system make rotation and large librations of the substellar point possible for these planets, which are usually assumed to be tidally locked. We independently confirm the tendency for planets in TRAPPIST-1-like systems to sporadically transition from tidally locked libration to slow rotation using N-body simulations. We examine the nature and frequency of these spin states to best inform energy balance models which predict the temperature profile of the planet’s surface. Our findings show that tidally locked planets with sporadic rotation are able to be in both long-term persistent states and states with prolonged transient behaviour: where frequent transitions between behaviours occur. Quasi-stable spin regimes, where the planet exhibits one spin behaviour for up to hundreds of millennia, are likely able to form stable climate systems while the spin behaviour is constant. 1D energy balance models show that tidally locked planets with sporadic rotation around M-dwarfs will experience a relatively small change in substellar temperature due to the lower albedo of ice in an infrared dominant stellar spectrum. The exact effects of large changes in temperature profiles on these planets as they rotate require more robust climate models, like 3D global circulation models, to better examine.
Type Ia supernova observations combining data from the Euclid mission and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory
Authors: Bailey A C , Vincenzi M , Scolnic D , Cuillandre J-C , Rhodes J , Hook I , Peterson E R , Popovic B
Published: July 2023

The Euclid mission will provide first-of-its-kind coverage in the near-infrared over deep (three fields, ∼10–20 square degrees each) and wide (∼10 000 square degrees) fields. While the survey is not designed to discover transients, the deep fields will have repeated observations over a two-week span, followed by a gap of roughly six months. In this analysis, we explore how useful the deep field observations will be for measuring properties of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia). Using simulations that include Euclid’s planned depth, area, and cadence in the deep fields, we calculate that more than 3700 SNe between 0.0 < $z$ < 1.5 will have at least five Euclid detections around peak with signal-to-noise ratio larger than 3. While on their own, Euclid light curves are not good enough to directly constrain distances, when combined with legacy survey of space and time (LSST) deep field observations, we find that uncertainties on SN distances are reduced by 20–30  per cent for $z$ < 0.8 and by 40–50  per cent for $z$ > 0.8. Furthermore, we predict how well additional Euclid mock data can be used to constrain a key systematic in SN Ia studies – the size of the luminosity ‘step’ found between SNe hosted in high-mass (>1010 M⊙) and low-mass (<1010 M⊙) galaxies. This measurement has unique information in the rest-frame near-infrared (NIR). We predict that if the step is caused by dust, we will be able to measure its reduction in the NIR compared to optical at the 4σ level. We highlight that the LSST and Euclid observing strategies used in this work are still provisional and some level of joint processing is required. Still, these first results are promising, and assuming that Euclid begins observations well before the Nancy Roman Space Telescope (Roman), we expect this data set to be extremely helpful for preparation for Roman itself.
Probing the soft state evolution of 4U 1543-47 during its 2021 outburst using AstroSat
Authors: Husain Nazma , Bhargava Yash , Garg Akash , Mudambi Sneha Prakash , Misra Ranjeev , Sen Somasri
Published: July 2023

4U 1543-47 underwent its brightest outburst in 2021 after two decades of inactivity. During its decay phase, AstroSat conducted nine observations of the source spanning from 2021 July 1 to September 26. The first three observations were performed with an offset of 40 arcmin with AstroSat/LAXPC, while the remaining six were on-axis observations. In this report, we present a comprehensive spectral analysis of the source as it was in the High/Soft state during the entire observation period. The source exhibited a disc-dominated spectra with a weak high-energy tail (power-law index ≥2.5) and a high inner disc temperature (∼0.84 keV). Modelling the disc continuum with non-relativistic and relativistic models, we find inner radius to be significantly truncated at >10 Rg. Alternatively, to model the spectral evolution with the assumption that the inner disc is at the innermost stable circular orbit, it is necessary to introduce variation in the spectral hardening in the range ∼1.5–1.9.
The quenched satellite population around Milky Way analogues
Authors: Karunakaran Ananthan , Sand David J , Jones Michael G , Spekkens Kristine , Bennet Paul , Crnojević Denija , Mutlu-Pakdı̇l Burçı̇n , Zaritsky Dennis
Published: July 2023

We study the relative fractions of quenched and star-forming satellite galaxies in the Satellites Around Galactic Analogs (SAGA) survey and Exploration of Local VolumE Satellites (ELVES) program, two nearby and complementary samples of Milky Way-like galaxies that take different approaches to identify faint satellite galaxy populations. We cross-check and validate sample cuts and selection criteria, as well as explore the effects of different star-formation definitions when determining the quenched satellite fraction of Milky Way analogues. We find the mean ELVES quenched fraction (〈QF〉), derived using a specific star formation rate (sSFR) threshold, decreases from ∼50 per cent to ∼27 per cent after applying a cut in absolute magnitude to match that of the SAGA survey (〈QF〉SAGA ∼9 per cent). We show these results are consistent for alternative star-formation definitions. Furthermore, these quenched fractions remain virtually unchanged after applying an additional cut in surface brightness. Using a consistently derived sSFR and absolute magnitude limit for both samples, we show that the quenched fraction and the cumulative number of satellites in the ELVES and SAGA samples broadly agree. We briefly explore radial trends in the ELVES and SAGA samples, finding general agreement in the number of star-forming satellites per host as a function of radius. Despite the broad agreement between the ELVES and SAGA samples, some tension remains with these quenched fractions in comparison to the Local Group and simulations of Milky Way analogues.
APES: approximate posterior ensemble sampler
Authors: D P Vitenti Sandro , Barroso Eduardo J
Published: July 2023

This paper proposes a novel approach to generate samples from target distributions that are difficult to sample from using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. Traditional MCMC algorithms often face slow convergence due to the difficulty in finding proposals that suit the problem at hand. To address this issue, the paper introduces the approximate posterior ensemble sampler (APES) algorithm, which employs kernel density estimation and radial basis interpolation to create an adaptive proposal, leading to fast convergence of the chains. The APES algorithm’s scalability to higher dimensions makes it a practical solution for complex problems. The proposed method generates an approximate posterior probability that closely approximates the desired distribution and is easy to sample from, resulting in smaller autocorrelation times and a higher probability of acceptance by the chain. We compare the performance of the APES algorithm with the affine invariance ensemble sampler with the stretch move in various contexts, demonstrating the efficiency of the proposed method. For instance, on the Rosenbrock function, the APES presented an autocorrelation time 140 times smaller than the affine invariance ensemble sampler. The comparison showcases the effectiveness of the APES algorithm in generating samples from challenging distributions. This paper presents a practical solution to generating samples from complex distributions while addressing the challenge of finding suitable proposals. With new cosmological surveys set to deal with many new systematics, this method offers a practical solution for the upcoming era of cosmological analyses. The algorithms presented in this paper are available at https://github.com/NumCosmo/NumCosmo.
Dependence of galactic bars on the tidal density field in the SDSS
Authors: Deng Qi’an , Zu Ying , Alam Shadab , Yoon Yongmin
Published: July 2023

As a key driver of the secular evolution of disc galaxies, bar formation is potentially linked to the surrounding tidal field. We systematically investigate the dependence of bars on both the small (${\lt }2\, \mathrm{Mpc}\,h^{-1}$) and large (${\gt }5\, \mathrm{Mpc}\,h^{-1}$) scale tidal fields using galaxies observed in the range 0.01 < z < 0.11 by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). We characterize bar strength using the ellipticity of the isophote that corresponds to each bar, ebar, derived from its galaxy image after subtracting the 2D disc component. We demonstrate the efficacy of our bar detection method by performing an extensive comparison with the visual identifications from SDSS and the DESI Legacy Surveys. Using the Yang et al. SDSS group catalogue, we confirm the results from a recent study that the average ebar of galaxies within interacting clusters is higher than that within isolated ones at 0.01 < z < 0.06, but this small-scale tidal enhancement of bars disappears after we increase the cluster sample by a factor of 5 to z = 0.11. On large scales, we explore the dependence of ebar on α5, the tidal anisotropy of the density field defined over $5\, \mathrm{Mpc}\,h^{-1}$. We do not detect any such dependence for 98  per cent of the galaxies with α5 < 10. Intriguingly, among the 2  per cent with α5 ≥ 10, we detect some hint of a boost in bar strength in the underdense regions and a suppression in the overdense regions. Combining our results on both scales, we conclude that there is little evidence for the tidal dependence of bar formation in the local Universe, except for the extremely anisotropic environments.
Deep carbon cycling during subduction revealed by coexisting diamond-methane-magnesite in peridotite
Authors: Wang Xiaoxia , Xiao Yilin , Schertl Hans-Peter , Sobolev Nikolay V , Wang Yang-Yang , Sun He , Jin Deshi , Tan Dong-Bo
Published: July 2023

Identification of multiphase inclusions in peridotite suggests that released carbon from a subducting slab can be stored as diamond+methane+magnesite in the overlying mantle wedge, achieving deep carbon cycling.
Calcium Oxalate Crystals, the Plant ‘Gemstones’: Insights into Their Synthesis and Physiological Implications in Plants
Authors: Khan Mohd Ishfaq , Pandith Shahzad A , Shah Manzoor A , Reshi Zafar A
Published: July 2023

From simple algal forms to the most advanced angiosperms, calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals (CRs) occur in the majority of taxonomic groups of photosynthetic organisms. Various studies have demonstrated that this biomineralization is not a simple or random event but a genetically regulated coordination between calcium uptake, oxalate (OX) synthesis and, sometimes, environmental stresses. Certainly, the occurrence of CaOx CRs is old; however, questions related to their genesis, biosynthesis, significance and genetics exhibit robust evolution. Moreover, their speculated roles in bulk calcium regulation, heavy metal/OX detoxification, light reflectance and photosynthesis, and protection against grazing and herbivory, besides other characteristics, are gaining much interest. Thus, it is imperative to understand their synthesis and regulation in relation to the ascribed key functions to reconstruct future perspectives in harnessing their potential to achieve nutritious and pest-resistant crops amid anticipated global climatic perturbations. This review critically addresses the basic and evolving concepts of the origin (and recycling), synthesis, significance, regulation and fate vis-à-vis various functional aspects of CaOx CRs in plants (and soil). Overall, insights and conceptual future directions present them as potential biominerals to address future climate-driven issues.
The adaptation of root cell wall pectin to copper toxicity in two citrus species differing in copper tolerance: remodeling and responding
Authors: Lin Mei-lan , Lu Fei , Zhou Xin , Xiong Xing , Lai Ning-wei , Li-song Chen , Zeng-rong Huang
Published: July 2023

Citrus species are prone to suffer from copper (Cu) toxicity because of improper application of Cu-based agrochemicals. Copper immobilization mediated by pectin methylesterase (PME) in the root cell wall (CW) is effective for Cu detoxification. However, the underlying mechanisms of the structural modification and stress responses of citrus root CW pectin to Cu toxicity have been less discussed. In the present study, seedlings of ‘Shatian pummelo’ (Citrus grandis L. Osbeck) and ‘Xuegan’ (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck), which differ in Cu tolerance, were irrigated with nutrient solution containing 0.5 (as control), 100, 300 or 500 μM Cu for 18 weeks in sandy culture or 24 h in hydroponics. At the end of treatments in the 18-week sandy culture, Cu toxicity on CW pectin content, Cu distribution, degree of pectin methylesterification (DPM) and the PME enzyme activity were discussed. At the genome-wide level, PME gene family was identified from the two citrus species, and qRT-PCR array of citrus PMEs under control and 300 μM Cu stress for 18 weeks were performed to screen the Cu-responsive PME genes. Moreover, the candidate genes that responded to Cu toxicity were further examined within 24 h. The results showed that Cu toxicity increased the root CW pectin content. The root CW pectin under Cu toxicity was remodeled by upregulation of the expression of the Cu-responsive PME genes followed by increasing PME activity, which mainly promoted low methylesterased pectin level and the Cu content on root CW pectin. Compared with C. sinensis, C. grandis root CW had a lower DPM and higher Cu content on the Cu-stressed root CW pectin, contributing to its higher Cu tolerance. Our present study provided theoretical evidence for root CW pectin remodeling in response to Cu toxicity of citrus species.
The earliest-diverging avemetatarsalian: a new osteoderm-bearing taxon from the Triassic (?Earliest Late Triassic) of Madagascar and the composition of avemetatarsalian assemblages prior to the radiation of dinosaurs
Authors: Nesbitt Sterling J , Patellos Emily , Kammerer Christian F , Ranivoharimanana Lovasoa , Wyss Andre´ R , Flynn John J
Published: July 2023

Understanding the evolution of the earliest avemetatarsalian (bird-line) archosaurs and inferring the morphology of the last common ancestor of Archosauria are hampered by a poor fossil record in critical temporal intervals. Here we describe an early-diverging avemetatarsalian from the ?Earliest Late Triassic (~235 Ma) ‘basal Isalo II’/Makay Formation of Madagascar, which helps bridge these gaps. This taxon, Mambachiton fiandohana gen. et sp. nov., is represented by well-preserved postcranial material and possibly a postfrontal bone. Features of the neck region include anteroposteriorly elongated vertebrae with laterally expanded dorsal ends of the neural spines with three pairs of osteoderms per cervical vertebra, lying dorsal to those vertebrae. Inclusion of Mambachiton in a phylogenetic analysis of archosauromorphs recovers it at the base of Avemetatarsalia, outside of the aphanosaur + ornithodiran clade. This new specimen indicates that osteoderms were present in the earliest avemetatarsalians, but were lost in more crownward lineages. The plesiomorphic morphology of the taxon also underscores the difficulty of identifying early avemetatarsalians from incomplete skeletons. This early-diverging avemetatarsalian occurring together with a lagerpetid and silesaurid in the ‘basal Isalo II’/Makay Formation of Madagascar documents the co-occurrence of multiple non-dinosaurian avemetatarsalian clades in Gondwana near the Middle–Late Triassic transition. Translated abstract (Malagasy and French) is provided in the Supplementary information.
Etiology, Risk Factors, and Management of Asherman Syndrome
Authors: Khan Zaraq
Published: July 2023

Asherman syndrome is characterized by a triad of symptoms including pain, menstrual abnormalities, and infertility and is a result of intrauterine scar tissue after instrumentation of a gravid uterus. Saline sonohysterogram is typically the most sensitive diagnostic tool; however, hysteroscopy is the criterion standard for diagnosis. Treatment includes hysteroscopic-guided lysis of adhesion, with restoration of the anatomy of the uterine cavity. Several modalities are used in an attempt to reduce the reformation of scar tissue after surgery; however, there is no consensus on the ideal method. Stem cells and platelet-rich plasma are being explored as means of regenerative therapy for the endometrium, but data remain limited. At present, most individuals can have restoration of menstrual function; however, lower pregnancy rates and obstetric complications are not uncommon. These complications are worse for patients with a higher grade of disease. Efforts are needed in standardizing classification, reducing uterine instrumentation of the gravid uterus, and referring patients to health care professionals with clinical expertise in this area.
Nitrous Oxide Improves Tissue Perfusion in Vascular Occlusion Management
Authors: Desyatnikova Stella , Mangieri Leandra
Published: July 2023

Filler-related vascular occlusion (VO) treatment remains challenging despite established protocols, including high-dose pulsed hyaluronidase injections and ultrasound-guided targeted injections. Managing patients’ pain and anxiety during treatment presents additional difficulties. Nitrous oxide (N2O) has been found to be effective for analgesia and anxiolysis in minor procedures, with a 55% reduction in photodynamic therapy pain, and a visual analog scale reduction from 6.6 to 2.9 for aesthetic laser treatment pain. Use of N2O for analgesia, anxiolysis, or improvement of perfusion in VO has not been previously reported. We present two cases of filler-related VO management with high-dose hourly hyaluronidase injections and adjunctive use of self-administered 50% N2O. Pain and anxiety of the treatment were self-reported by the patients. Capillary refill and livedo reticularis were monitored for establishing VO diagnosis and treatment outcome. In both cases, self-administration of N2O led to contemporaneous improvement in skin perfusion. Patients reported decreased anxiety and pain during treatment. Hyaluronidase treatment led to permanent resolution of occlusion symptoms. N2O presents a promising adjunctive treatment option for relief of pain and anxiety, and potentially additional perfusion improvement. Further investigation is necessary to better define N2O’s role in treating VO.
Predictors of 3-month and 1-year visual outcomes after vitrectomy with subretinal tissue plasminogen activator injection for submacular hemorrhage
Authors: Miki Makoto , Miyata Manabu , Ooto Sotaro , Tamura Hiroshi , Ueda-Arakawa Naoko , Muraoka Yuki , Miyake Masahiro , Hata Masayuki , Takahashi Ayako , Kido Ai , Kogo Takahiro , Uji Akihito , Tsujikawa Akitaka
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

To investigate factors associated with 3-month or 1-year best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) after vitrectomy with subretinal tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) injection for submacular hemorrhage (SMH) and to identify the predictors of early displacement.

Methods:

This prospective cohort study included consecutive eyes with SMH complicating neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) or retinal macroaneurysm (RMA) that underwent vitrectomy with subretinal tPA injection and were followed up for at least 3 months. We identified parameters correlated with 3-month BCVA, 1-year BCVA, and 2-week displacement grade (0–3).

Results:

Twenty-nine eyes of 29 patients (73.1 ± 8.4 years; nAMD, 25 eyes) were included. Logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA improved 3 months after the surgery (baseline, 0.76 [20/115] ± 0.35; 3-month, 0.51 [20/65] ± 0.32; P = 0.006). In multivariable analyses, 1-year logMAR BCVA correlated with age (P = 0.007, β = 0.39) and SMH recurrence within 1 year after surgery (P <0.001, β = 0.65). Two-week displacement grade correlated with the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of SMH (P = 0.001, β = −0.54). Macular hole occurred in three eyes (10%) with small SMH size and was closed in all eyes via additional vitrectomy with an inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique.

Conclusions:

The recurrence of SMH negatively affected the 1-year visual outcome after vitrectomy with subretinal tPA injection for SMH. The CNR was a useful predictor of early SMH displacement but not of 1-year BCVA. Further research is necessary to determine the optimal treatment to prevent SMH recurrence.
CAVITARY CHOROIDAL NEVUS SHOWING THICKNESS FLUCTUATIONS IN RESPONSE TO ANTI-VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR THERAPY FOR DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Bijon Jacques , Ramtohul Prithvi , Naysan Jonathan , Freund K. Bailey
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to report the multimodal imaging features of a cavitary choroidal nevus showing thickness fluctuations that mirrored the response of diabetic macular edema (DME) to intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy.

Methods:

This is a retrospective case report. Multimodal imaging findings including fundus photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, OCT-angiography (OCTA), and B-scan ultrasonography were analyzed.

Results:

A woman in her 80s with a cavitary choroidal nevus and DME was treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy using a pro re nata regimen over 5 years. The choroidal nevus showed thickness fluctuations paralleling the response of DME to anti-VEGF therapy. Worsening of the DME was associated with marked increased choroidal lesion thickness on OCT. Conversely, resolution of DME after intravitreal anti-VEGF injections was followed by choroidal lesion flattening on OCT. Variations of the choroidal lesion thickness were mainly dependent on changes of intralesional hyporeflective caverns on OCT.

Conclusion:

Our report shows thickness variations of a cavitary choroidal nevus that paralleled the clinical course of DME treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on volume variations of a cavitary choroidal nevus after anti-VEGF therapy.
THE RETINAL DEEP CAPILLARY PLEXUS AS A VENOUS OUTFLOW SYSTEM: INSIGHTS FROM STURGE–WEBER SYNDROME
Authors: Thanos Aristomenis , Young Jonathan , Fortune Brad , Tang Stephen J.
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

To report on the venous abnormalities of a patient with Sturge–Weber syndrome.

Method:

Case report.

Patient:

A 29-year-old woman with a history of Sturge–Weber syndrome since infancy was referred for evaluation of possible diffuse choroidal hemangioma. Multimodal imaging, including ultra-widefield fluorescein, indocyanine green, and optical coherence tomography angiography, was performed.

Results:

Dilated fundus examination was remarkable for increased cupping of the optic disk in the right eye, venous tortuosity, and marked dilation of the choroidal vessels. Ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography confirmed marked venous tortuosity and dilation, as well as anastomoses of the retinal veins ipsilateral to the port wine stain. Indocyanine green angiography revealed marked engorgement of the vortex veins and choroidal vasculature. Optical coherence tomography angiography revealed dilated vascular channels in the deep capillary plexus that were directly anastomosing to the superficial capillary plexus, but not the intermediate capillary plexus. Engorgement of the ampullae of the deep capillary plexus vortex system was also observed. The normal contralateral eye was used as comparison for all imaging studies.

Conclusion:

These findings support the notion of generalized venous hypertension state in adult eyes with Sturge–Weber syndrome and corroborate previous evidence that the deep capillary plexus acts as a venous outflow system.
POSTERIOR VITREOUS MEMBRANE FINDINGS ON OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY RELATED TO COLLAGEN TYPE IV ABNORMALITIES
Authors: de Hoog Joeri , Govers Birgit Marlies , Burggraaff Marloes Christien , Keijser Sander
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

The pathological mechanisms of abnormal collagen type IV predisposing to macular hole formation in Alport syndrome are hypothesized to be related to defective Bruch membrane leading to ruptured intraretinal cysts. However, abnormal collagen type IV may also predispose to macular hole formation due to vitreous cortex abnormalities.

Methods:

An observational case series of optical coherence tomography findings in three patients.

Results:

In two patients diagnosed with Alport syndrome and in one patient with a possibly pathogenic genetic variant in COL4A3, we observed a remarkable posterior vitreous cortex with a vitreoschisis-like appearance on optical coherence tomography. Two of these patients developed a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, of which one was caused by a giant retinal tear, and one patient developed a macular hole. During surgery, a firmly adherent vitreous cortex was observed centrally in the left eye and in the midperiphery in the right eye in one patient with a macular hole and giant retinal tear, respectively.

Conclusion:

These new vitreous cortex findings in patients with Alport syndrome are possibly related to pathogenic genetic variants affecting type IV collagen. Abnormal type IV collagen may cause pathological vitreoretinal traction, potentially leading to an increased risk of macular holes and rhegmatogenous retinal detachments.
The Utility of Corneal Cultures in Bacterial Keratitis
Authors: Hsu Jerry , Gupta Anita
Published: July 2023

Objectives:

To determine the utility and use of corneal cultures in bacterial keratitis.

Methods:

Retrospective single-center chart review of patients with bacterial keratitis who showed a positive corneal culture result from January 2017 to December 2021.

Results:

Seventy-four cases of bacterial keratitis in 73 patients with positive cultures were identified. The most common organisms were Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus species. In total, 87.8% of cases were started on fortified antibiotics initially. All organisms isolated were susceptible to empiric antibiotics used (n=54). In 47.3% of cases, an antibiotic was discontinued once culture results became available, most often fortified vancomycin. Within the 27 Pseudomonas cases, consisting of predominantly contact lens wearers, at least one fortified antibiotic was discontinued in 66.7% of cases after a positive culture result.

Conclusions:

Multidrug resistance was infrequent in the study population. Empiric antibiotic therapy is still effective in bacterial corneal ulcers. Corneal cultures may have utility in antibiotic de-escalation.
Comparison of a Novel, Flavor-optimized, Polyethylene Glycol and Sulfate Bowel Preparation With Oral Sulfate Solution in Adults Undergoing Colonoscopy
Authors: Bhandari Raj , Goldstein Michael , Mishkin Daniel S. , McGowan John , Cleveland Mark vB. , Di Palma Jack A.
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

A new bowel preparation for colonoscopy has been developed containing poorly absorbed sulfate salts and polyethylene glycol 3350, which retain water within the intestinal lumen resulting in copious diarrhea, thereby cleansing the bowel. The product was formulated to be safe and effective with a sports drink-like flavor. This study evaluated the new flavored polyethylene glycol and sulfate solution (FPSS) compared with a Food and Drug Administration-approved bowel preparation containing sulfate salts only [oral sulfate solution (OSS)].

Methods:

Five hundred adults were enrolled in this multicenter, noninferiority study. Subjects were assigned FPSS or OSS administered in split-dose regimens (PM/AM). FPSS subjects took 2 L of the flavored osmotic solution (1 L at night and 1 L in the morning). OSS was taken according to its approved labeling. Colonoscopies were graded globally and segmentally by blinded local investigators using a 4-point scale (excellent, good, fair, and poor), with “good” and “excellent” considered successful. Safety was assessed by adverse events (AEs) and laboratory testing.

Results:

A high rate of cleansing success was seen with FPSS (94%), which was noninferior to OSS (94%). This conclusion was confirmed by blinded central readers. Segmental success rates were >90% for both preparations, including the right colon. Questionnaire ratings indicated the FPSS experience was preferred over OSS with 87% of FPSS subjects noting their preparation was “tolerable” to “very easy” to consume versus 74% for OSS. The majority of FPSS subjects agreed their preparation tasted like a sports drink. Gastrointestinal symptoms were the most common AEs. There was no difference between preparations for any AE and no clinically significant differences in laboratory parameters.

Conclusions:

The new sports drink-like flavored preparation achieved a high level of cleansing in the study, demonstrating noninferiority to OSS. FPSS was well-tolerated with low rates of expected gastrointestinal symptoms. The optimized flavor of FPSS resulted in significantly better acceptance ratings.
Pediatric Short Bowel Syndrome: Real-World Evidence on Incidence and Hospital Resource Use From a Finnish Data Lake
Authors: Puttonen Minna , Tuominen Samuli , Ukkola-Vuoti Liisa , Lassenius Mariann I. , Virtanen Heidi , Merras-Salmio Laura , Pakarinen Mikko P.
Published: July 2023

Objectives:

Little is known about the epidemiology and healthcare burden of pediatric intestinal failure (IF). We aimed to assess the incidence, prevalence, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and related costs of pediatric short bowel syndrome (SBS) using follow-up data from the largest hospital district in Finland.

Methods:

This retrospective registry study utilized electronic healthcare data covering all pediatric patients with SBS-IF born between 2010 and 2019 at the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa in Finland. Patients were followed from birth until the end of 2020 and compared to control patients, all from the same hospital system.

Results:

In total, 38 patients with SBS-IF and 1:5 matched controls were included, with median follow-up time of almost 6 years from birth. Over half of the patients were born early preterm (gestational age ≤30 weeks). The incidence of pediatric SBS-IF was 24 per 100,000 live births. The HCRU was higher compared to controls and most of the inpatient days incurred during the first year of the SBS-IF patients’ life. The average hospital-based HCRU costs were €221,000 for the first year and €57,000 for whole follow-up annually. The costs were higher for the early preterm patients and accumulated mainly from inpatient days.

Conclusions:

SBS-IF is a rare disease with a relatively low number of patients treated at each hospital district. The burden on the hospital system, as well as the patient’s family, is especially high at the onset as the newborns with SBS-IF spend a significant part of their first year of life in the hospital.
Do Polymorphisms Predict Hypnotherapy Response in Children With Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders: An Explorative Study
Authors: de Bruijn Clara M.A. , Hovy Stefan W. , Tromp Ellen , Benninga Marc A. , Hall Kathryn T. , Vlieger Arine M.
Published: July 2023

Genetic variations, in specific COMT, OPRM1, and MAO-A polymorphisms, have been associated with hypnotizability in adults. The aim of this exploratory study was to investigate whether these polymorphisms are also associated with response to hypnotherapy (HT) in children. Patients (8–18 years, n = 260) diagnosed with a functional abdominal pain disorder (FAPD) from a previous trial assessing HT efficacy were approached for participation and 144 agreed to collect a buccal sample. Primary aim was to explore the association between COMT, OPRM1, and MAO-A polymorphisms with treatment success (TS) after 3-month HT. Additionally, associations between these polymorphisms and adequate relief, anxiety, depression, quality of life, somatization, hypnotic susceptibility, expectations, pain beliefs, and coping strategies were evaluated. Participants with different variations of COMT, MAO-A, and OPRM1 achieved similar TS levels (P > 0.05). No associations were found between these polymorphisms and secondary outcomes. This suggest that in pediatric patients with FAPDs, COMT, OPRM1, and MAO-A polymorphisms do not predict HT response.
Predicting Complications in Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Braun Sterling E. , Sinik Lauren M. , Meyer Anne M. , Larson Kelsey E. , Butterworth James A.
Published: July 2023

Importance

Necrosis of the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is the Achilles heel of nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM), and it can be difficult to assess which patients are at risk of this complication (Ann Surg Oncol 2014;21(1):100–106).

Objective

To develop and validate a model that accurately predicts NAC necrosis in a prospective cohort.

Design

Data were collected from a retrospectively reviewed cohort of patients who underwent NSM and immediate breast reconstruction between January 2015 and July 2019 at our institution, a high -volume, tertiary academic center. Preoperative clinical characteristics, operative variables, and postoperative complications were collected and linked to NAC outcomes. These results were utilized to train a random-forest classification model to predict necrosis. Our model was then validated in a prospective cohort of patients undergoing NSM with immediate breast reconstruction between June 2020 and June 2021.

Results

Model predictions of NAC necrosis in the prospective cohort achieved an accuracy of 97% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89–0.99; P = 0.009). This was consistent with the accuracy of predictions in the retrospective cohort (0.97; 95% CI, 0.95–0.99). A high degree of specificity (0.98; 95% CI, 0.90–1.0) and negative predictive value (0.98; 95% CI, 0.90–1.0) were also achieved prospectively. Implant weight was the most predictive of increased risk, with weights greater than 400 g most strongly associated with NAC ischemia.

Conclusions and Relevance

Our machine learning model prospectively predicted cases of NAC necrosis with a high degree of accuracy. An important predictor was implant weight, a modifiable risk factor that could be adjusted to mitigate the risk of NAC necrosis and associated postoperative complications.
Boldness is not associated with dynamic performance capacity in hermit crabs
Authors: Courtene-Jones Winne , Briffa Mark
Published: July 2023

Boldness, the way an individual reacts to risk, is a commonly studied personality trait in animals. Consistent among-individual differences in startle response durations (latency to recover from a startling stimulus) are frequently assumed to reflect variation in boldness. An alternative explanation is that these latencies are not directly driven by variation in responses to information on risk, but by underlying differences in dynamic performance capacities. Here we investigate this possibility by analysing relationships between locomotory speed, a measure of whole-body dynamic performance capacity in hermit crabs, and startle response duration, a repeatable latency measure used as an index of boldness. Individuals differed in mean startle response duration, in the consistency of their startle responses, in their reaction norms across repeated observations, and mean startle responses increased with crab mass. However, there were no relationships between startle responses and locomotory speed. This indicates that startle responses do not reflect underlying performance capacities and suggests that they provide insight into differences in how individuals respond to risky situations. Since similar latencies are used as measures of boldness in other animals, we suggest that potential relationships between apparent boldness and performance capacity should be tested.
European Union Reference Laboratories support the National food, feed and veterinary Reference Laboratories with rolling out whole genome sequencing in Europe
Authors: Michelacci Valeria , Asséré Adrien , Cacciò Simone , Cavaiuolo Marina , Mooijman Kirsten , Morabito Stefano , Pedersen Susanne Karlsmose , Sayeb Maroua , Segerman Bo , Simonsson Magnus , Skarin Hanna , Tozzoli Rosangela , van Hoek Angela , Hendriksen Rene Sjøgren
Published: July 2023

The Inter European Union Reference Laboratories (EURLs) Working Group on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) involves eight EURLs for microbiological food and feed hazards and has been working since 2017 to promote the adoption of NGS by the National Reference Laboratories (NRLs) in the European Union. This work illustrates the results of the first 5 years of activity. By working together, the EURLs involved have released guidance documents for assisting NRLs in all the steps of NGS, helping the transition from classical molecular methods towards whole genome sequencing while ensuring harmonization, with the final aim of improving preparedness in the use of NGS to characterize microbial hazards and trace the sources of infection.
The youth of tamale metropolis: understanding energy drink consumption, perceptions and related factors
Authors: Kobik Williams , Aryee Paul Armah
Published: July 2023

Energy drinks have become a popular choice for young people seeking physical and cognitive boosts, with ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, and B vitamins aimed at improving academic, athletic, and alertness levels. However, the popularity of these drinks is also driven by low prices, taste, brand loyalty, and gendered marketing, with boys being more likely to consume them. Despite the supposed benefits, energy drinks have been associated with high-risk behaviours, deaths, and adverse health effects, especially related to cardiovascular risk. Meanwhile, in Ghana, the use of energy drinks is on the rise. Hence, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and consumption pattern, perception, and factors associated with ED consumption among the youth of the Tamale Metropolis. The study was cross-sectional consisting of 541 participants. The group consisted of 340 males and 201 females, between the ages of 15 and 45. A questionnaire was utilized to obtain data on the respondents’ consumption patterns and perceptions of EDs, as well as their socio-demographic characteristics. The results of the study indicated that a large percentage of the respondents, 98.7%, had consumed energy drinks before, while 78.7% currently consume them. Respondents believed that energy drinks provided additional energy (81.00%) and reduced stress (62.30%). However, they also perceived side effects such as insomnia (60.60%) and restlessness (51.40%). Although the majority of respondents (83.4%) were unaware of the classification of energy drinks and their ingredients, side effects, and benefits. Age, marital status, level of education, work intensity, EDs served at gatherings, and knowledge of EDs was significantly associated with ED consumption (p < .05). Consumption was higher among those aged 26 to 35 years, singles, individuals with no formal education, and those with high work intensity. Energy drinks were consumed by the majority of the youth. The high consumption was also associated with low knowledge levels. It is recommended that public health and nutrition professionals should engage in further advocacy efforts to improve the youth’s perception of EDs in a positive manner. In addition, lawmakers should use legislation to influence consumption rates and safeguard the health of consumers.
Decoding semantics from dynamic brain activation patterns: From trials to task in EEG/MEG source space
Authors: Magnabosco Federica , Hauk Olaf
Published: July 2023

The temporal dynamics within the semantic brain network and its dependence on stimulus and task parameters are still not well understood. Here, we addressed this by decoding task as well as stimulus information from source-estimated EEG/MEG data. We presented the same visual word stimuli in a lexical decision (LD) and three semantic decision (SD) tasks. The meanings of the presented words varied across five semantic categories. Source space decoding was applied over time in five ROIs in the left hemisphere (Anterior and Posterior Temporal Lobe, Inferior Frontal Gyrus, Primary Visual Areas, and Angular Gyrus) and one in the right hemisphere (Anterior Temporal Lobe). Task decoding produced sustained significant effects in all ROIs from 50-100 ms, both when categorising tasks with different semantic demands (LD-SD) as well as for similar semantic tasks (SD-SD). In contrast, semantic word category could only be decoded in lATL, rATL, PTC and IFG, between 250-500 ms. Furthermore, we compared two approaches to source space decoding: Conventional ROI-by-ROI decoding and combined-ROI decoding with back-projected activation patterns. The former produced more reliable results for word-category decoding while the latter was more informative for task-decoding. This indicates that task effects are distributed across the whole semantic network while stimulus effects are more focal. Our results demonstrate that the semantic network is widely distributed but that bilateral anterior temporal lobes together with control regions are particularly relevant for the processing of semantic information.

Significance Statement

Most previous decoding analyses of EEG/MEG data have focussed on decoding performance over time in sensor space. Here for the first time we compared two approaches to source space decoding in order to reveal the spatio-temporal dynamics of both task and stimulus features in the semantic brain network. This revealed that even semantic tasks with similar task demands can be decoded across the network from early latencies, despite reliable differences in their evoked responses. Furthermore, stimulus features can be decoded in both tasks but only for a subset of ROIs and following the earliest task effects. These results inform current neuroscientific models of controlled semantic cognition.