bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracerebroventricular delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a phase I study
Authors: Van Damme Philip , Tilkin Petra , Mercer Katarina Jansson , Terryn Joke , D’Hondt Ann , Herne Nina , Tousseyn Thomas , Claeys Kristl G , Thal Dietmar R , Zachrisson Olof , Almqvist Per , Nuttin Bart , Jerling Markus , Bernadotte Folke , Haegerstrand Anders , Robberecht Wim
Published: September 2020

We studied the feasibility, safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of intracerebroventricular delivery of recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In this phase I study in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the study drug was delivered using an implantable programmable pump connected to a catheter inserted in the frontal horn of the lateral cerebral ventricle. A first cohort received open label vascular endothelial growth factor (0.2, 0.8 and 2 µg/day), a second cohort received placebo, 0.8 or 2 µg/day of study dug. After the 3-month study period, all patients could participate in an open label extension study. In total, 18 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, seen at the University Hospitals in Leuven were included. The surgical procedure was well tolerated in most patients. One patient had transient postoperative seizures, due to an ischemic lesion along the catheter tract. The first 3-month study period was completed by 15/18 patients. Administration of 2 µg/day vascular endothelial growth factor resulted in sustained detectable levels in cerebrospinal fluid. A pulmonary embolus occurred in 3 patients, in 1 patient in the first 3-month study, and in 2 patients during the open label extension study. The study drug was well tolerated in the other patients, for up to 6 years in the open label extension study. Our study shows that intracerebroventricular administration of 2 µg/day of vascular endothelial growth factor to patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is feasible, results in detectable cerebrospinal fluid levels and is well tolerated in most patients. The most common serious adverse event was a pulmonary embolus.
Microelimination of Hepatitis C Among People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Coinfection: Declining Incidence and Prevalence Accompanying a Multicenter Treatment Scale-up Trial
Authors: Doyle Joseph S , van Santen Daniela K , Iser David , Sasadeusz Joe , O’Reilly Mark , Harney Brendan , Traeger Michael W , Roney Janine , Cutts Julia C , Bowring Anna L , Winter Rebecca , Medland Nick , Fairley Christopher K , Moore Richard , Tee B K , Asselin Jason , El-Hayek Carol , Hoy Jennifer F , Matthews Gail V , Prins Maria , Stoové Mark A , Hellard Margaret E
Published: September 2020

Background

Gay and bisexual men (GBM) are a key population affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection. We aimed to measure HCV treatment effectiveness and to determine the population impact of treatment scale-up on HCV prevalence and incidence longitudinally among GBM.

Methods

The co-EC Study (Enhancing Care and Treatment Among HCV/HIV Coinfected Individuals to Eliminate Hepatitis C Transmission) was an implementation trial providing HCV direct-acting antiviral treatment in Melbourne, Australia, during 2016–2018. Individuals with HCV/HIV coinfection were prospectively enrolled from primary and tertiary care services. HCV viremic prevalence and HCV antibody/viremic incidence were measured using a statewide, linked, surveillance system.

Results

Among 200 participants recruited, 186 initiated treatment during the study period. Sustained virological response in primary care (98% [95% confidence interval {CI}, 93%–100%]) was not different to tertiary care (98% [95% CI, 86%–100%]). From 2012 to 2019, between 2434 and 3476 GBM with HIV infection attended our primary care sites annually, providing 13 801 person-years of follow-up; 50%–60% received an HCV test annually, and 10%–14% were anti-HCV positive. Among those anti-HCV positive, viremic prevalence declined 83% during the study (54% in 2016 to 9% in 2019). HCV incidence decreased 25% annually from 1.7/100 person-years in 2012 to 0.5/100 person-years in 2019 (incidence rate ratio, 0.75 [95% CI, .68–.83]; P < .001).

Conclusions

High treatment effectiveness by nonspecialists demonstrates the feasibility of treatment scale-up in this population. Substantial declines in HCV incidence and prevalence among GBM provides proof-of-concept for HCV microelimination.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT02786758.
Amino Acids Whose Intracellular Levels Change Most During Aging Alter Chronological Life Span of Fission Yeast
Authors: Rallis Charalampos , Mülleder Michael , Smith Graeme , Au Yan Zi , Ralser Markus , Bähler Jürg
Published: September 2020

Amino acid deprivation or supplementation can affect cellular and organismal life span, but we know little about the role of concentration changes in free, intracellular amino acids during aging. Here, we determine free amino acid levels during chronological aging of nondividing fission yeast cells. We compare wild-type with long-lived mutant cells that lack the Pka1 protein of the protein kinase A signalling pathway. In wild-type cells, total amino acid levels decrease during aging, but much less so in pka1 mutants. Two amino acids strongly change as a function of age: glutamine decreases, especially in wild-type cells, while aspartate increases, especially in pka1 mutants. Supplementation of glutamine is sufficient to extend the chronological life span of wild-type but not of pka1Δ cells. Supplementation of aspartate, on the other hand, shortens the life span of pka1Δ but not of wild-type cells. Our results raise the possibility that certain amino acids are biomarkers of aging, and their concentrations during aging can promote or limit cellular life span.
Getting the right message: a content analysis and application of the health literacy INDEX tool to online HIV resources in Australia
Authors: Gray Corie , Crawford Gemma , Lobo Roanna , Maycock Bruce
Published: September 2020

Health literacy is considered by some as a determinant of health. Research suggests that different levels of health literacy may be associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) knowledge and behaviour, including willingness to test. This study assessed the health literacy demands of existing Australia HIV prevention resources available online using a health literacy assessment and content analysis. Two reviewers assessed 66 resources using the Health Literacy INDEX. Sixty-one (92%) scored below 50%, with an average score of 35.5%. A coding frame was developed to conduct a content analysis of the resources excluding videos, multiple webpages and booklets (n = 52). We coded for six categories of knowledge: HIV knowledge (100% of resources), transmission (96%), acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) knowledge (88%), testing (87%), consequence of infection (85%) and prevention (77%). We found that resources required a reading grade above grade 8, and very few resources considered audience appropriateness. There were missed opportunities to encourage HIV prevention or testing. Some resources used incorrect language to refer towards people living with HIV, and transmission and prevention messages were often inconsistent. Guidelines for developing HIV prevention resources are warranted to improve health literacy, accessibility and appropriateness of resources and ensure consistent messages and framing of HIV risk.
Low-pass whole genome bisulfite sequencing of neonatal dried blood spots identifies a role for RUNX1 in Down syndrome DNA methylation profiles
Authors: Laufer Benjamin I , Hwang Hyeyeon , Jianu Julia M , Mordaunt Charles E , Korf Ian F , Hertz-Picciotto Irva , LaSalle Janine M
Published: September 2020

Neonatal dried blood spots (NDBS) are a widely banked sample source that enables retrospective investigation into early life molecular events. Here, we performed low-pass whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) of 86 NDBS DNA to examine early life Down syndrome (DS) DNA methylation profiles. DS represents an example of genetics shaping epigenetics, as multiple array-based studies have demonstrated that trisomy 21 is characterized by genome-wide alterations to DNA methylation. By assaying over 24 million CpG sites, thousands of genome-wide significant (q < 0.05) differentially methylated regions (DMRs) that distinguished DS from typical development and idiopathic developmental delay were identified. Machine learning feature selection refined these DMRs to 22 loci. The DS DMRs mapped to genes involved in neurodevelopment, metabolism, and transcriptional regulation. Based on comparisons with previous DS methylation studies and reference epigenomes, the hypermethylated DS DMRs were significantly (q < 0.05) enriched across tissues while the hypomethylated DS DMRs were significantly (q < 0.05) enriched for blood-specific chromatin states. A ~28 kb block of hypermethylation was observed on chromosome 21 in the RUNX1 locus, which encodes a hematopoietic transcription factor whose binding motif was the most significantly enriched (q < 0.05) overall and specifically within the hypomethylated DMRs. Finally, we also identified DMRs that distinguished DS NDBS based on the presence or absence of congenital heart disease (CHD). Together, these results not only demonstrate the utility of low-pass WGBS on NDBS samples for epigenome-wide association studies, but also provide new insights into the early life mechanisms of epigenomic dysregulation resulting from trisomy 21.
Marine recreational fisheries — current state and future opportunities
Authors: Hyder Kieran , Maravelias Christos D , Kraan Marloes , Radford Zachary , Prellezo Raul
Published: September 2020

Marine recreational fisheries (MRF) have important social and economic benefits, but can impact fish stocks and the environment. The diverse and dispersed nature of these fisheries makes them challenging to study; a lack of data has made it more difficult to include them in fisheries management and the varied motivations of fishers makes their response to management measures hard to predict. Research into MRF is growing rapidly, so this themed article set aims to bring together MRF research to highlight the current evidence base and identify future opportunities. New survey methods were presented alongside analyses of existing data, which highlighted issues with methods, reconstruction of missing data, and factors influencing catch and effort. The manuscripts demonstrated the biological and economic impacts of MRF, and its self-subsidizing nature was recognized. Novel approaches for management, including improving compliance, were identified. Finally, the lack of funding for MRF was highlighted. Key research gaps are: governance that embeds MRF in fisheries management; integration of novel approaches and traditional surveys; risk-based approaches to identify impacts; understanding fish welfare; management that balances economic, social, and biological impacts and allows allocation between sectors; and understanding social benefits and their impacts on management and compliance.
Pointwise Inequalities for Sobolev Functions on Outward Cuspidal Domains
Authors: Eriksson-Bique Sylvester , Koskela Pekka , Malý Jan , Zhu Zheng
Published: September 2020

We show that the 1st-order Sobolev spaces $W^{1,p}(\Omega _\psi ),$$1<p\leq \infty ,$ on cuspidal symmetric domains $\Omega _\psi $ can be characterized via pointwise inequalities. In particular, they coincide with the Hajłasz–Sobolev spaces $M^{1,p}(\Omega _\psi )$.
Cross-ratio Dynamics on Ideal Polygons
Authors: Arnold Maxim , Fuchs Dmitry , Izmestiev Ivan , Tabachnikov Serge
Published: September 2020

Two ideal polygons, $(p_1,\ldots ,p_n)$ and $(q_1,\ldots ,q_n)$, in the hyperbolic plane or in hyperbolic space are said to be $\alpha $-related if the cross-ratio $[p_i,p_{i+1},q_i,q_{i+1}] = \alpha $ for all $i$ (the vertices lie on the projective line, real or complex, respectively). For example, if $\alpha = -1$, the respective sides of the two polygons are orthogonal. This relation extends to twisted ideal polygons, that is, polygons with monodromy, and it descends to the moduli space of Möbius-equivalent polygons. We prove that this relation, which is generically a 2-2 map, is completely integrable in the sense of Liouville. We describe integrals and invariant Poisson structures and show that these relations, with different values of the constants $\alpha $, commute, in an appropriate sense. We investigate the case of small-gons and describe the exceptional ideal pentagons and hexagons that possess infinitely many $\alpha $-related polygons.
Domesticating Gay Apps: An Intersectional Analysis of the Use of Blued Among Chinese Gay Men
Authors: Miao Weishan , Chan Lik Sam
Published: September 2020

Drawing on domestication theory and intersectionality theory, this study explores the multiple roles dating apps play in Chinese gay men’s lives amid changing personal and social circumstances. We present in-depth narratives of three Blued users from different generations and classes with unique relationship statuses. The app’s geo-locative features strengthened the gay capital of our younger participant but threatened our middle-aged, closeted participant. Although coming from a homophobic generation, our senior participant had no issue becoming an online celebrity on the app because his wife had passed away, pointing out the intersectional influence of generational and relational backgrounds. Our participants’ socio-economic positions also shaped whom they would interact with on Blued and how these interactions took place. These observations illustrate the relationship between users’ intersectional positions and their domestication of Blued, complementing existing dating app studies that skew toward younger users and focus only on certain elements of app use.
Between Script and Ornament: Delftware Decorated with Pseudo-Chinese Characters, 1680–1720
Authors: van Noord Willemijn
Published: September 2020

In the late seventeenth century, Dutch Delftware manufacturers developed refined ceramics with an entirely new decoration of pseudo-Chinese characters. The application of this extraordinary design did not replicate Chinese porcelain examples and today it is usually dismissed as made up and meaningless. However, illegible script—be it foreign or ‘pseudo’—in any form of art has, if not a specific semantic meaning, a certain agency to evoke particular spheres of authenticity and remoteness and therefore deserves further investigation. Moreover, closer examination of these decorations and their sources of inspiration—both Dutch and Chinese, ceramic and print—reveals that there is a wide spectrum of authenticity and intentionality that ranges between script that appears to have been invented and symbols that show resemblance to actual Chinese characters. This article focusses on the transfer and reinterpretation of script as a decorative design, and how the presence of characters negotiates the relationship between Delftware and Chinese porcelain. By comparing the pseudo-characters on Delftware to pseudo-scripts on other materials, the function of pseudo-script as a design and its relationship to materiality is explored. As characters were appropriated and applied in different contexts, their connotations swayed between Chineseness and foreignness, script and ornament.
Occurrence and molecular identification of zoonotic microsporidia in pet budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) in Turkey
Authors: Pekmezci Didem , Yetismis Gamze , Esin Cagatay , Duzlu Onder , Colak Zeynep Nurselin , Inci Abdullah , Pekmezci Gokmen Zafer , Yildirim Alparslan
Published: September 2020

Encephalitozoon spp. and Enterocytozoon bieneusi are well-known microsporidian pathogens, recently classified as fungi, infecting humans and reptiles, mammals, and birds. Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulates) are the most preferred captive pet birds in the households. Prevalence and molecular data on microsporidian species in budgerigars are scarce worldwide. The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence and genotypes of Encephalitozoon spp. and E. bieneusi in budgerigars, and to reveal their zoonotic potential. A total of 143 fecal samples were collected from owned healthy budgerigars in Turkey. Encephalitozoon spp. and E. bieneusi were examined by nested PCR targeting the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and sequenced for identifying Encephalitozoon spp. and E. bieneusi. The overall prevalence of E. hellem and E. bieneusi was 14.7% (21/143) and 3.5% (5/143), respectively. Two genotypes of E. hellem were identified, including one known 1A (n = 18) and a novel TURK1B (n = 3). In addition, we determined two E. bieneusi genotypes, including one known N (n = 2) and a novel TURKM1 (n = 3). E. hellem 1A and novel TURK1B clustered as a sister taxon, and genotype N and novel TURKM1 genotypes fall into group 2 of E. bieneusi in the phylogenetic tree. Novel genotypes of E. hellem and E. bieneusi were described for the first time in the avian host. Moreover, E. bieneusi genotype N was first detected in avian hosts in the present study. This study contributes to the current knowledge on the molecular epidemiology and transmission dynamics of E. hellem and E. bieneusi.
Reanalyses of the sunspot observations of Fogelius and Siverus: two ‘long-term’ observers during the Maunder minimum
Authors: Hayakawa Hisashi , Iju Tomoya , Uneme Shoma , Besser Bruno P , Kosaka Shunsuke , Imada Shinsuke
Published: September 2020

The solar activity during the Maunder minimum (MM; 1645–1715) has been considered significantly different from the one captured in modern observations, in terms of sunspot group number and sunspot positions, whereas its actual amplitudes and distributions are still under active discussions. In its core period (1650/1660–1700), Martin Fogelius and Heinrich Siverus have formed significant long-term series in the existing data bases. With numerous spotless days, they have been considered as the 13th and 7th most active observers before the end of the MM. In this study, we have analysed their original archival records, revised their data, have removed significant contaminations of the apparent ‘spotless days’ in the existing data bases, and cast caveats on the potential underestimation of the solar-cycle amplitude in the core MM. Still, they reported at best one sunspot group throughout their observational period and confirm the significantly suppressed solar cycles during the MM. This is also supported from the contemporary observations of Hook and Willoughby, analysed in this study. Based on their revised data, we have also derived positions of notable sunspot groups, which Siverus recorded in 1671 (≈N7.5° ± 2.5°), in comparison with those of Cassini's drawings (≈N10° ± 1°). Their coincidence in position and chronology in corrected dates indicates these sunspot groups were probably the same recurrent active region (AR) and its lifespan was significantly long (≥35 d) even during the MM.
Extinction-free Census of AGNs in the AKARI/IRC North Ecliptic Pole Field from 23-band infrared photometry from Space Telescopes
Authors: Wang Ting-Wen , Goto Tomotsugu , Kim Seong Jin , Hashimoto Tetsuya , Burgarella Denis , Toba Yoshiki , Shim Hyunjin , Miyaji Takamitsu , Hwang Ho Seong , Jeong Woong-Seob , Kim Eunbin , Ikeda Hiroyuki , Pearson Chris , Malkan Matthew , Oi Nagisa , Santos Daryl Joe D , Małek Katarzyna , Pollo Agnieszka , Ho Simon C-C , Matsuhara Hideo , On Alvina Y L , Kim Helen K , Hsiao Tiger Yu-Yang , Huang Ting-Chi
Published: September 2020

In order to understand the interaction between the central black hole and the whole galaxy or their co-evolution history along with cosmic time, a complete census of active galactic nucleus (AGN) is crucial. However, AGNs are often missed in optical, UV, and soft X-ray observations since they could be obscured by gas and dust. A mid-infrared (MIR) survey supported by multiwavelength data is one of the best ways to find obscured AGN activities because it suffers less from extinction. Previous large IR photometric surveys, e.g. Wide field Infrared Survey Explorer and Spitzer, have gaps between the MIR filters. Therefore, star-forming galaxy-AGN diagnostics in the MIR were limited. The AKARI satellite has a unique continuous nine-band filter coverage in the near to MIR wavelengths. In this work, we take advantage of the state-of-the-art spectral energy distribution modelling software, cigale, to find AGNs in MIR. We found 126 AGNs in the North Ecliptic Pole-Wide field with this method. We also investigate the energy released from the AGN as a fraction of the total IR luminosity of a galaxy. We found that the AGN contribution is larger at higher redshifts for a given IR luminosity. With the upcoming deep IR surveys, e.g. JWST, we expect to find more AGNs with our method.
Redundant-baseline calibration of the hydrogen epoch of reionization array
Authors: Dillon Joshua S , Lee Max , Ali Zaki S , Parsons Aaron R , Orosz Naomi , Nunhokee Chuneeta Devi , La Plante Paul , Beardsley Adam P , Kern Nicholas S , Abdurashidova Zara , Aguirre James E , Alexander Paul , Balfour Yanga , Bernardi Gianni , Billings Tashalee S , Bowman Judd D , Bradley Richard F , Bull Phil , Burba Jacob , Carey Steve , Carilli Chris L , Cheng Carina , DeBoer David R , Dexter Matt , de Lera Acedo Eloy , Ely John , Ewall-Wice Aaron , Fagnoni Nicolas , Fritz Randall , Furlanetto Steven R , Gale-Sides Kingsley , Glendenning Brian , Gorthi Deepthi , Greig Bradley , Grobbelaar Jasper , Halday Ziyaad , Hazelton Bryna J , Hewitt Jacqueline N , Hickish Jack , Jacobs Daniel C , Julius Austin , Kerrigan Joshua , Kittiwisit Piyanat , Kohn Saul A , Kolopanis Matthew , Lanman Adam , Lekalake Telalo , Lewis David , Liu Adrian , Ma Yin-Zhe , MacMahon David , Malan Lourence , Malgas Cresshim , Maree Matthys , Martinot Zachary E , Matsetela Eunice , Mesinger Andrei , Molewa Mathakane , Morales Miguel F , Mosiane Tshegofalang , Murray Steven , Neben Abraham R , Nikolic Bojan , Pascua Robert , Patra Nipanjana , Pieterse Samantha , Pober Jonathan C , Razavi-Ghods Nima , Ringuette Jon , Robnett James , Rosie Kathryn , Santos Mario G , Sims Peter , Smith Craig , Syce Angelo , Tegmark Max , Thyagarajan Nithyanandan , Williams Peter K G , Zheng Haoxuan
Published: September 2020

In 21-cm cosmology, precision calibration is key to the separation of the neutral hydrogen signal from very bright but spectrally smooth astrophysical foregrounds. The Hydrogen Epoch of Reionization Array (HERA), an interferometer specialized for 21-cm cosmology and now under construction in South Africa, was designed to be largely calibrated using the self-consistency of repeated measurements of the same interferometric modes. This technique, known as redundant-baseline calibration resolves most of the internal degrees of freedom in the calibration problem. It assumes, however, on antenna elements with identical primary beams placed precisely on a redundant grid. In this work, we review the detailed implementation of the algorithms enabling redundant-baseline calibration and report results with HERA data. We quantify the effects of real-world non-redundancy and how they compare to the idealized scenario in which redundant measurements differ only in their noise realizations. Finally, we study how non-redundancy can produce spurious temporal structure in our calibration solutions – both in data and in simulations – and present strategies for mitigating that structure.
Galaxy cluster mass estimation with deep learning and hydrodynamical simulations
Authors: Yan Z , Mead A J , Van Waerbeke L , Hinshaw G , McCarthy I G
Published: September 2020

We evaluate the ability of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to predict galaxy cluster masses in the BAHAMAS hydrodynamical simulations. We train four separate single-channel networks using: stellar mass, soft X-ray flux, bolometric X-ray flux, and the Compton y parameter as observational tracers, respectively. Our training set consists of ∼4800 synthetic cluster images generated from the simulation, while an additional ∼3200 images form a validation set and a test set, each with 1600 images. In order to mimic real observation, these images also contain uncorrelated structures located within 50 Mpc in front and behind clusters and seen in projection, as well as instrumental systematics including noise and smoothing. In addition to CNNs for all the four observables, we also train a ‘multichannel’ CNN by combining the four observational tracers. The learning curves of all the five CNNs converge within 1000 epochs. The resulting predictions are especially precise for halo masses in the range $10^{13.25}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }\lt M\lt 10^{14.5}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$, where all five networks produce mean mass biases of order ≈1 per cent with a scatter of ≲20 per cent. The network trained with Compton y parameter maps yields the most precise predictions. We interpret the network’s behaviour using two diagnostic tests to determine which features are used to predict cluster mass. The CNNs trained with stellar mass images detect galaxies (not surprisingly), while CNNs trained with gas-based tracers utilize the shape of the signal to estimate cluster mass.
Spectral and imaging properties of Sgr A* from high-resolution 3D GRMHD simulations with radiative cooling
Authors: Yoon D , Chatterjee K , Markoff S B , van Eijnatten D , Younsi Z , Liska M , Tchekhovskoy A
Published: September 2020

The candidate supermassive black hole in the Galactic Centre, Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*), is known to be fed by a radiatively inefficient accretion flow (RIAF), inferred by its low accretion rate. Consequently, radiative cooling has in general been overlooked in the study of Sgr A*. However, the radiative properties of the plasma in RIAFs are poorly understood. In this work, using full 3D general–relativistic magnetohydrodynamical simulations, we study the impact of radiative cooling on the dynamical evolution of the accreting plasma, presenting spectral energy distributions and synthetic sub-millimetre images generated from the accretion flow around Sgr A*. These simulations solve the approximated equations for radiative cooling processes self-consistently, including synchrotron, bremsstrahlung, and inverse Compton processes. We find that radiative cooling plays an increasingly important role in the dynamics of the accretion flow as the accretion rate increases: the mid-plane density grows and the infalling gas is less turbulent as cooling becomes stronger. The changes in the dynamical evolution become important when the accretion rate is larger than $10^{-8}\, M_{\odot }~{\rm yr}^{-1}$ ($\gtrsim 10^{-7} \dot{M}_{\rm Edd}$, where $\dot{M}_{\rm Edd}$ is the Eddington accretion rate). The resulting spectra in the cooled models also differ from those in the non-cooled models: the overall flux, including the peak values at the sub-mm and the far-UV, is slightly lower as a consequence of a decrease in the electron temperature. Our results suggest that radiative cooling should be carefully taken into account in modelling Sgr A* and other low-luminosity active galactic nuclei that have a mass accretion rate of $\dot{M} \gt 10^{-7}\, \dot{M}_{\rm Edd}$.
A pilot search for extragalactic OH absorption with FAST
Authors: Zheng Zheng , Li Di , Sadler Elaine M , Allison James R , Tang Ningyu
Published: September 2020

OH absorption is currently the only viable way to detect OH molecules in non-masing galaxies at cosmological distances. There have been only six such detections at z > 0.05 to date and so it is hard to put a statistically robust constraint on OH column densities in distant galaxies. We carried out a pilot OH absorption survey towards eight associated and one intervening H i 21-cm absorbers using the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST). We were able to constrain the OH abundance relative to H i ([OH]/[H i]) to be lower than 10−6 ∼ 10−8 for redshifts z∈ [0.1919, 0.2241]. Although no individual detection was made, stacking three associated absorbers free of RFI provides a sensitive OH column density 3σ upper-limit $\sim 1.57 \times 10^{14} (T_x^{\rm OH}/10\,\mathrm{ K})(1/f_\mathrm{ c}^{\rm OH})\mathrm{ cm}^{-2}$, which corresponds to a [OH]/[H i] < 5.45 × 10−8. Combining with archival data, we show that associated absorbers have a slightly lower OH abundance than intervening absorbers. Our results are consistent with a trend of decreasing OH abundance with decreasing redshift.
Genomic Targets of Positive Selection in Giant Mice from Gough Island
Authors: Payseur Bret A , Jing Peicheng
Published: September 2020

A key challenge in understanding how organisms adapt to their environments is to identify the mutations and genes that make it possible. By comparing patterns of sequence variation to neutral predictions across genomes, the targets of positive selection can be located. We applied this logic to house mice that invaded Gough Island (GI), an unusual population that shows phenotypic and ecological hallmarks of selection. We used massively parallel short-read sequencing to survey the genomes of 14 GI mice. We computed a set of summary statistics to capture diverse aspects of variation across these genome sequences, used approximate Bayesian computation to reconstruct a null demographic model, and then applied machine learning to estimate the posterior probability of positive selection in each region of the genome. Using a conservative threshold, 1,463 5-kb windows show strong evidence for positive selection in GI mice but not in a mainland reference population of German mice. Disproportionate shares of these selection windows contain genes that harbor derived nonsynonymous mutations with large frequency differences. Over-represented gene ontologies in selection windows emphasize neurological themes. Inspection of genomic regions harboring many selection windows with high posterior probabilities pointed to genes with known effects on exploratory behavior and body size as potential targets. Some genes in these regions contain candidate adaptive variants, including missense mutations and/or putative regulatory mutations. Our results provide a genomic portrait of adaptation to island conditions and position GI mice as a powerful system for understanding the genetic component of natural selection.
Steroids as treatment for glomerulonephritis: time for a rethink
Authors: Hendra Heidy , Salama Alan D
Published: September 2020

Glucocorticoids have been a cornerstone of treatment for inflammatory and autoimmune kidney diseases for almost 70 years, yet it is fair to say, we still do not know how ‘best’ to use them. Significant adverse events are associated with their continued use, which contribute to premature patient mortality. Steroid avoidance or minimization is possible and has been tested in various glomerular diseases, as a result of novel agents or innovative regimens using established therapeutics. It is now time to seriously address our use of steroids and educate physicians on better ways of managing inflammatory kidney diseases.
Bank of Japan Equity Purchases: The (Non-)Effects of Extreme Quantitative Easing*
Authors: Charoenwong Ben , Morck Randall , Wiwattanakantang Yupana
Published: September 2020

From January 2011 through March 2018, the Bank of Japan purchased equity index exchange-traded funds (ETFs) worth about 3.5% of GDP. Identification of the effect of central bank ETF purchases on stock valuations and corporate responses is via differently-weighted and changing stock indices. BOJ purchases lift valuations, increase share issuances, and increase total assets. On average, the latter increase is due to cash and short-term securities rather than capital investment. However, firms with worse corporate governance do increase capital investment. These findings suggest central bank equity purchases are a problematic tool for stimulating economic growth through high broad-based private-sector corporate investment.
EVALUATION OF NEUTRON AMBIENT DOSE EQUIVALENT IN CARBON-ION RADIOTHERAPY WITH ENERGY SCANNING
Authors: Matsumoto Shinnosuke , Yonai Shunsuke
Published: September 2020

In carbon-ion radiotherapy (CIRT), secondary neutrons are produced by nuclear interactions in the beamline devices or patient. Herein, the characteristics of secondary neutrons in CIRT with energy scanning (ES) were evaluated. Neutron ambient dose equivalents (H*(10)) were measured using WENDI-II. The neutron energy spectrum was calculated using the Monte Carlo simulation. Measurement and calculation were performed under realistic case scenarios using maximum beam energies (Emax) of 290, 350 and 400 MeV u −1. Moreover, H*(10) in ES was compared with H*(10) in range-shifter scanning (RS) and hybrid scanning (HS). H*(10) in Emax = 290 MeV u−1 was 65% less than that in Emax = 400 MeV u−1. At Emax = 350 MeV u−1, H*(10) in ES at θ = 120 was 42% of that at θ = 60. The neutron dose in ES CIRT decreased to approximately 60 and 70% of that in RS and HS CIRT, respectively, at 50-cm distance from the beam axis.
THE EFFICACY OF RADPAD AS A RADIATION PROTECTION TOOL IN CT FLUOROSCOPY GUIDED LUNG BIOPSIES
Authors: Lawson Michael , Kuganesan Ahilan , Parry Georgia , Badawy Mohamed Khaldoun
Published: September 2020

Computed tomography fluoroscopy is now the preferred technique for percutaneous lung biopsies. However, concern regarding operator and patient radiation dose remains, which warrants further exploration into dose optimisation tools. This phantom-study aims to assess the dose reduction capabilities of RADPAD, a single-use patient drape designed to decrease staff exposure to scattered radiation. Dosemeters at the waist and eye levels were used to determine the whole-body and lens exposure during simulated lung biopsy procedures while using RADPAD and other combinations of personal protective equipment. RADPAD resulted in a 36% and 38% dose reduction for whole-body and eye exposure, respectively. However, when used in combination with radioprotective eyewear and aprons, RADPAD did not reduce the radiation dose further. Consequently, the use of standard personal protective equipment is a more cost-effective option for staff dose reduction. RADPAD is useful in the reduction of radiation dose to unprotected regions.
Social and affective neuroscience: an Australian perspective
Authors: Kumfor Fiona , Tracy Lincoln M , Wei Grace , Chen Yu , Domínguez D. Juan F , Whittle Sarah , Wearne Travis , Kelly Michelle
Published: September 2020

Abtract

While research in social and affective neuroscience has a long history, it is only in the last few decades that it has been truly established as an independent field of investigation. In the Australian region, despite having an even shorter history, this field of research is experiencing a dramatic rise. In this review, we present recent findings from a survey conducted on behalf of the Australasian Society for Social and Affective Neuroscience (AS4SAN) and from an analysis of the field to highlight contributions and strengths from our region (with a focus on Australia). Our results demonstrate that researchers in this field draw on a broad range of techniques, with the most common being behavioural experiments and neuropsychological assessment, as well as structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging. The Australian region has a particular strength in clinically driven research, evidenced by the types of populations under investigation, top cited papers from the region, and funding sources. We propose that the Australian region has potential to contribute to cross-cultural research and facilitating data sharing, and that improved links with international leaders will continue to strengthen this burgeoning field.
Right-Wing Stewards: The Promoting Effect of Religiosity on Environmental Concern among Political Conservatives in a Global Context
Authors: Hekmatpour Peyman
Published: September 2020

This article studies the relationship between individuals’ religiosity, political ideology, and environmental concern, in a cross-national setting. Drawing data from multiple waves of the World Values Survey (1999–2009), the final sample of this study includes 44,391 respondents nested in 43 countries. By using a multi-level modeling technique, the study finds that religiosity is positively associated with respondents’ environmental concerns in terms of willingness to pay for the environment, agreement with increased taxes to prevent environmental pollution, and choosing environmental protection over economic interests. Political ideology, measured via individuals’ self-placement on a left-right continuum, does not have a meaningful relationship with environmental concern in a global setting. Nevertheless, there is an interaction effect between religiosity and political ideology. Increased religiosity, particularly among more conservative individuals, is associated with a higher probability of environmental concern. Comparatively, religiosity virtually does not affect liberals’ concern for the natural environment. The gap between liberals and conservatives regarding the natural environment is more pronounced at lower levels of religiosity; as religiosity increases, the gap starts to narrow. Results suggest that religion has the potential to elevate some of the political barriers on the way towards reaching a collective environmental consciousness.
Dengue and post-infection fatigue: findings from a prospective cohort—the Colombo Dengue Study
Authors: Sigera Ponsuge C , Rajapakse Senaka , Weeratunga Praveen , De Silva Nipun L , Gomes Laksiri , Malavige Gathsaurie N , Rodrigo Chaturaka , Fernando Sumadhya D
Published: September 2020

Background

Previous studies on post-infection fatigue in dengue are few but suggest that up to 25% of dengue patients may suffer from fatigue. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and associations of post-infection fatigue in dengue patients compared with non-dengue fever patients.

Methods

Post-infection fatigue and its demographic and clinical associations were assessed in adult dengue and non-dengue fever patients 2 months after the acute infection in a prospective cohort study in Sri Lanka. Fatigue at 2 months (primary endpoint) was assessed with the fatigue questionnaire as a dichotomous outcome based on a pre-recommended cut-off (score ≥4) and as the total score from the questionnaire (higher score indicates more fatigue).

Results

Of 260 patients, 158 had dengue and, of these, 51 (32%) had fatigue at 2 months. Risk was higher in dengue patients (vs non-dengue; relative risk [RR] 4.93 [95% confidence interval {CI} 2.3 to 10.4]) and more so in female dengue patients (vs male dengue patients; RR 2.45 [95% CI 1.24 to 4.86]). Severe dengue patients had a higher mean fatigue score (p=0.024).

Conclusions

Post-infection fatigue is an underappreciated burden of this widely prevalent infection. Our findings are useful to triage patients at risk of fatigue for follow-up.
Congress2019 poster winners
Authors: Stieffel Michelle , Ducoing Jenifer , Monteleone Ashley , Held Haleigh , Chirinos Leslie , Babin Kaylee , Lehman Joanna L. , Harris Patricia A.
Published: September 2020

The following articles represent the first place and runner-up winners from the Nursing Management Congress2019 poster contest. Both posters were presented and recognized at last year's Congress in New Orleans. Congratulations to our winners!
Pills to Powder: A 17-Year Transition From Prescription Opioids to Heroin Among US Adolescents Followed Into Adulthood
Authors: McCabe Sean Esteban , Boyd Carol J. , Evans-Polce Rebecca J. , McCabe Vita V. , Schulenberg John E. , Veliz Philip T.
Published: September 2020

Objectives:

To examine the longitudinal relationships between US adolescents’ prescription opioid use and misuse and any subsequent heroin use in adulthood.

Methods:

Nationally representative samples of adolescents from 25 independent cohorts were surveyed via self-administered questionnaires and followed from ages 18 to 35 (n = 11,012). Adolescents were divided into 5 subgroups based on survey responses at age 18: no lifetime exposure to prescription opioids (population controls), medical prescription opioid use without a history of nonmedical misuse (medical use only), medical use followed by nonmedical misuse, nonmedical misuse followed by medical use, and nonmedical misuse only. These 5 subgroups were compared on their risk for any heroin use through age 35 (1993–2017). Adolescents who reported lifetime heroin use at age 18 were excluded.

Results:

Adolescents who reported nonmedical prescription opioid misuse followed by medical use or nonmedical misuse only had greater odds of any heroin use in adulthood than population controls. More recent cohorts of adolescents who reported nonmedical misuse or medical use only (compared to older cohorts) had greater odds of any heroin use in adulthood relative to population controls. Nearly 1 in 3 adolescents in recent cohorts who reported nonmedical prescription opioid misuse transitioned to any heroin use.

Conclusions:

There is increased risk for heroin use among adolescents who initiated nonmedical misuse or adolescents prescribed opioids in more recent cohorts. These findings indicate historical variation and reinforce the critical role of vigilant monitoring and drug screening to detect high-risk individuals who would benefit from an intervention to reduce later heroin use.
The Influence of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors on Lumbar Arthrodesis
Authors: Pirkle Sean , Bhattacharjee Sarah , El Dafrawy Mostafa , Leucht Philipp , Shi Lewis L. , Lee Michael J.
Published: September 2020

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis using the PearlDiver national insurance claims database.

Objective:

To investigate the relationship between chronic preoperative selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) prescriptions and nonunion following spine fusion surgery.

Summary of Background Data:

Contemporary literature has linked SSRIs to decreased bone mineral density and increased rates of future bone fracture. Furthermore, a recent murine model has suggested a potential role in the quality of fracture healing itself.

Methods:

All single-level lumbar fusion patients were identified. The rate of nonunion diagnosis between 6 and 24 months following surgery was assessed. A stratified analysis of chronic SSRI use and a number of comorbidities was conducted, followed by a multiple logistic regression analysis of nonunion accounting for qualifying risk factors. Finally, subanalyses of individual procedure codes were carried out.

Results:

In total, 7905 single-level lumbar fusion patients were included. In the multivariate analysis, chronic SSRI [odds ratio (OR): 1.558, P=0.004] and tobacco use (OR: 1.500, P=0.011) were identified as independent risk factors for nonunion, whereas patient age over 60 years (OR: 0.468, P<0.001) was observed to be negatively associated with nonunion. In the individual procedure subanalyses, SSRIs were significantly associated with nonunion in 2 of 3 univariate analyses and observed to be an independent risk factor for nonunion in 2 of the 3 procedure populations.

Conclusions:

These data suggest that patients treated concomitantly for mental health disorders with SSRIs before arthrodesis may be at an increased risk of postoperative nonunion. Closer follow-up may be indicated in this patient population.
Radiation Exposure to Scrub Nurse, Assistant Surgeon, and Anesthetist in Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion Surgery Comparing 2D Conventional Fluoroscopy With 3D Fluoroscopy-based Navigation
Authors: Klingler Jan-Helge , Scholz Christoph , Hohenhaus Marc , Volz Florian , Naseri Yashar , Krüger Marie T. , Vasilikos Ioannis , Roelz Roland , Brönner Johannes , Hoedlmoser Herbert , Sircar Ronen , Hubbe Ulrich
Published: September 2020

Study Design:

A randomized controlled trial.

Objective:

To compare the radiation exposure with the scrub nurse, assistant surgeon, and anesthetist during minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion using conventional 2-dimensional (2D) fluoroscopy or 3D fluoroscopy-based navigation.

Summary of Background Data:

Minimally invasive spinal fusion techniques are related to higher radiation exposures compared with open techniques. Especially the routinely exposed surgical staff faces the risks of increased radiation exposure.

Methods:

In total, 41 patients with planned monosegmental minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion were randomized into the intraoperative imaging techniques 2D fluoroscopy or 3D navigation. Eye lens and film dosemeters were attached to defined locations of the scrub nurse, assistant surgeon, and anesthetist. Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon-matched pairs signed-rank test were used to compare dosemeter readings. This study was registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00004514).

Results:

The radiation exposure per surgery was low for the scrub nurse, assistant surgeon, and anesthetist in both the 2D fluoroscopy and 3D navigation groups. The maximum average value of 0.057±0.031 mSv was measured on the unprotected chest of the assistant surgeon and was thus slightly above the lower detection limit of the dosemeters (0.044 mSv). The annual occupational dose limit would be exceeded at the earliest after 571 operations for the unprotected eye lens of the assistant surgeon.

Conclusions:

Minimally invasive lumbar fusion surgery is possible with comparatively low radiation exposure to the assisting operating room personnel without exceeding the annual maximum occupational radiation exposure. However, there is no definite dose value below which ionizing radiation poses no risk. Consequently, radiation sparing work routines should be strictly followed.
Artificial Intelligence in Spine Care
Authors: Gutman Michael J. , Schroeder Gregory D. , Murphy Hamadi , Flanders Adam E. , Vaccaro Alexander R.
Published: September 2020

Artificial intelligence is an exciting and growing field in medicine to assist in the proper diagnosis of patients. Although the use of artificial intelligence in orthopedics is currently limited, its utility in other fields has been extremely valuable and could be useful in orthopedics, especially spine care. Automated systems have the ability to analyze complex patterns and images, which will allow for enhanced analysis of imaging. Although the potential impact of artificial intelligence integration into spine care is promising, there are several limitations that must be overcome. Our goal is to review current advances that machine learning has been used for in orthopedics, and discuss potential application to spine care in the clinical setting in which there is a need for the development of automated systems.
Cardiac Manifestations of Systemic Lupus Erythematous: An Overview of the Incidence, Risk Factors, Diagnostic Criteria, Pathophysiology and Treatment Options
Authors: Zagelbaum Ward Nicole K. , Linares-Koloffon Carlos , Posligua Alba , Gandrabur Liliya , Kim Woo Young , Sperber Kirk , Wasserman Amy , Ash Julia
Published: September 2020

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex connective tissue disease that can potentially affect every organ of the human body. In some cases, SLE may present with diverse cardiac manifestations including pericarditis, myocarditis, valvular disease, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and arrhythmias. Heart disease in SLE is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. It is unclear whether traditional treatments for coronary artery disease significantly impact mortality in this population. Current therapeutic agents for SLE include glucocorticoids, hydroxychloroquine, mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, and B cell-directed therapies. This article will provide a comprehensive review and update on this important disease state.