bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of an Immune Gene-Based Cisplatin Response Model and CD27 as a Therapeutic Target against Cisplatin Resistance for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Guo Ying , Yang Na , Li Gang , Yin Xiurong , Dong Lixia
Published: May 2022

Objective. Evidence demonstrates that the immune microenvironment is extensively associated with chemotherapy response of ovarian cancer (OV). Herein, this study is aimed at establishing a cisplatin response prediction model for OV on the basis of immune genes. Methods. The expression profiles of cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant OV specimens were integrated from multiple public datasets. The abundance scores of 22 immune cells were estimated with CIBERSORT algorithm. Differentially expressed immune genes (DEGs) were determined between cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant groups. Thereafter, a cisplatin response model was constructed based on prognostic DEGs with logistic regression analysis. The prediction performance was validated in independent cohorts. The possible relationships between the model and immunotherapy were then assessed. Results. Treg scores were significantly decreased in cisplatin-resistant than cisplatin-sensitive OV specimens, with the opposite results for naïve B cells and activated dendritic cells. Fourteen prognostic DEGs were identified and used to develop a cisplatin-response model. The response scores, estimated by the model, showed favorable performance in discriminating cisplatin-response and nonresponse samples. The response scores also presented significantly negative correlations with three well-known cisplatin-resistant pathways and a positive correlation with the expression of CD274 (PD-L1). Moreover, the decreased CD27 expression was observed in cisplatin-resistant groups, and OV specimens with higher CD27 expressions were more sensitive to cisplatin treatment. Conclusion. Altogether, our findings proposed a cisplatin response prediction model and identified CD27 that might be involved in cisplatin resistance. Further investigations suggested that CD27 could be a promising immunotherapeutic target for cisplatin-resistant subset of OV.
The Classification of Music and Art Genres under the Visual Threshold of Deep Learning
Authors: Zheng Zhiqiang
Published: May 2022

Wireless networks are commonly employed for ambient assisted living applications, and artificial intelligence-enabled event detection and classification processes have become familiar. However, music is a kind of time-series data, and it is challenging to design an effective music genre classification (MGC) system due to a large quantity of music data. Robust MGC techniques necessitate a massive amount of data, which is time-consuming, laborious, and requires expert knowledge. Few studies have focused on the design of music representations extracted directly from input waveforms. In recent times, deep learning (DL) models have been widely used due to their characteristics of automatic extracting advanced features and contextual representation from actual music or processed data. This paper aims to develop a novel deep learning-enabled music genre classification (DLE-MGC) technique. The proposed DLE-MGC technique effectively classifies the music genres into multiple classes by using three subprocesses, namely preprocessing, classification, and hyperparameter optimization. At the initial stage, the Pitch to Vector (Pitch2vec) approach is applied as a preprocessing step where the pitches in the input musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) files are transformed into the vector sequences. Besides, the DLE-MGC technique involves the design of a cat swarm optimization (CSO) with bidirectional long-term memory (BiLSTM) model for the classification process. The DBTMPE technique has gained a moderately increased accuracy of 94.27%, and the DLE-MGC technique has accomplished a better accuracy of 95.87%. The performance validation of the DLE-MGC technique was carried out using the Lakh MIDI music dataset, and the comparative results verified the promising performance of the DLE-MGC technique over current methods.
Effects of Etanercept on TNF‐α Inhibition in Rats with Adenine‐Induced Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Mendieta-Condado Edgar , Villaseñor-Tapia Elda Cristina , Gálvez-Gastelum Francisco Javier , Yáñez-Sánchez Irinea , Pizano-Martínez Oscar , Canales-Aguirre Alejandro , Márquez-Aguirre Ana Laura
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) constitutes a chronic inflammatory state associated with an increase in inflammatory mediators and profibrotic molecules such as tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α). Etanercept (ETA) is a TNF inhibitor widely used in treatment of autoimmune inflammatory diseases. However, the effects of TNF‐α inhibition in the establishment of CKD have not been fully elucidated. We evaluate the effects of TNF inhibition by ETA in adenine‐ (Ad‐) induced CKD in rats. Methods. Rats were divided into three groups: control, renal injury model, and model plus ETA (2 mg/kg, 3 times per week (w); sc). Renal injury was induced by Ad administration (100 mg/kg, daily for 2 or 4 w; orogastric). Serum TNF‐α levels and biochemical parameters for renal function were evaluated. Histopathological changes in the kidney were assessed using H&E and Masson’s trichrome staining and also immunostaining for tubular cells. Results. Ad administration produced a renal functional decline, tubular atrophy, interstitial inflammation, and fibrosis for 2 w, followed by renal anemia, several renal dysfunctions, tubular atrophy, and fibrosis at 4 w. A significant increase in serum TNF‐α levels was observed from 2 w of Ad administration and remained elevated up to 4 w. Treatment with ETA partially reduced kidney damage but was very effective to blocking serum TNF‐α. Conclusion. Although inhibition of TNF by ETA was very effective in reducing serum TNF‐α, this strategy was partially effective in preventing Ad‐induced CKD.
3D Reconstruction Method of Virtual and Real Fusion Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Zhu Wenyao , Zhou Shuyue
Published: May 2022

With the continuous development of computer vision technology, people are paying more and more attention to the method of using computers to simulate actual 3D scenes, and the requirements for 3D reconstruction technology are getting higher and higher. Virtual and real fusion refers to combining the virtual environment generated by the computer with the actual scenes around the user through photoelectric display, sensors, computer graphics, multimedia, and other technologies. This is a technology that can obtain more convenient and direct expressions, and it is also a technique for expressing content more abundantly and accurately. The key to virtual and real fusion technology is the registration of virtual objects and real scenes. It means that the system should be able to correctly estimate the position and posture of the camera in the real world, and then place the virtual object where it should be. Machine learning is a multifield interdisciplinary subject that specializes in how computers simulate or realize human learning behaviors. It is the core of artificial intelligence and the fundamental way to make computers intelligent. Its applications are in all the fields of artificial intelligence. This article introduces the virtual-real fusion 3D reconstruction method based on machine learning, compares the performance of the method with other algorithms through experiments, and draws the following conclusion: the algorithm in this study is the fastest, with an average speed of 72.9% under different times. To evaluate the image acquisition indicators of each algorithm, the algorithm in this study has the lowest error rate. The matching accuracy of each algorithm is tested, and it is found that the average matching accuracy of the algorithm in this study is about 0.87, which is the highest.
Adolescent Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire: Investigating Psychometric Properties in Iranian Female Students
Authors: Zare Somayeh , Kaveh Mohammad Hossein , Ghanizadeh Ahmad , Nazari Mahin , Asadollahi Abdolrahim , Zare Razie
Published: May 2022

Objectives. Mental Health Literacy (MHL) is an important factor in promoting mental health. Assessing this structure is required for early recognition and intervention in mental health problems. To date, there was no tool to assess it among Iranian adolescents, so this study was aimed at examining the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Adolescent Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire (AMHLQ) among Iranian female students. Method. The study instrument was a Persian version of the AMHLQ prepared through a translation and back‐translation process. In this cross‐sectional study, 275 female students completed the AMHLQ, and the Adolescent Strengths, and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Results. Findings of content, construct validity tests, Cronbach’s alpha, and split‐half coefficient demonstrated that the AMHLQ had satisfactory validity and suitable reliability. The exploratory factor analysis showed four dimensions of the AMHLQ: (1) knowledge of mental health problems (α = 0.89); (2) erroneous beliefs/stereotypes (α = 0.89); (3) help‐seeking and first aid skills (α = 0.86); and (4) self‐help strategies (α = 0.74). Conclusion. The findings showed that the tool was confirmed by questions and subscales, and this questionnaire was a valid and reliable tool in assessing level differences of MHL and in determining the impact of programs designed to improve MHL in Iranian female adolescents.
Fed-Fi: Federated Learning Malicious Model Detection Method Based on Feature Importance
Authors: Zhou Chuanxin , Sun Yi , Wang Degang , Gao Qi
Published: May 2022

Federated learning, as a new security exchange paradigm, is widely used in medical care, driverless cars, finance, and other fields. However, federated learning still faces the problem of sybil attacks common in distributed frameworks. The existing schemes mainly defend against malicious model attacks with distance comparison, neural network, and confidence vote. But they are significantly limited in dealing with collusive sybil attacks. Therefore, we propose a federated learning malicious model detection method based on feature importance (Fed-Fi). Firstly, we screen important features by feature importance reasoning method based on LRP and compare the similarity based on Hamming distance between important features. Then, we adjust model learning rate adaptively to reduce the effect of collusive sybil attacks on the global model. The experimental results indicate that it can effectively resist the attack of collusive sybils in federated learning.
Intelligent Evaluation and Early Warning of Liquidity Risk of Commercial Banks Based on RNN
Authors: Yan Wei , Song Yinghua
Published: May 2022

With the downward pressure of China’s economy and the impact of the epidemic, the accumulated market risk has increased the liquidity pressure of the banking industry, and the mismatch between deposit maturity and loan maturity is the main cause for the increase of liquidity risk. The twenty-first century is the era of rapid and in-depth development of data management technology. The explosive growth of massive financial data makes the information data related to the liquidity risk of commercial banks present the characteristics of complexity, diversity, and heterogeneity. The traditional risk early warning model cannot deal with the influence between a large number of influencing factors and the nonlinear factors of commercial bank liquidity risk. Based on this transformation, the circular neural network model is introduced into the field of liquidity risk early warning of commercial banks from the perspective of the mismatch risk of financing maturity of commercial banks, and the driving factors and risk warning signs of liquidity risk of commercial banks are further analyzed from the institutional level, policy level, industry level, and micro commercial bank level. This paper uses network crawler technology, text analysis, and grounded analysis technology to intelligently identify the liquidity risk of commercial banks and establishes an early warning index system based on the influencing factors of commercial banks and internal liquidity risk. Also, it constructs an intelligent early warning model of commercial bank liquidity risk based on deep learning and uses the data of commercial banks from 2000 to 2020 for early warning. The results show that the constructed model has high accuracy, which can provide support for banks and relevant government departments to formulate and resolve bank liquidity risk.
Novel Variant in Exon 3 of the BMP4 Gene Resulted in Ectopic Posterior Pituitary, Craniocervical Junction Dysmorphism and Limb Anomaly
Authors: Calcaterra Valeria , Lamberti Rossella , Viggiano Claudia , Baldassarre Paola , Spaccini Luigina , Alfano Rosa Maria , Izzo Giana , Valentini Laura Grazia , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Pituitary differentiation involves a large number of transcription factors. In particular, BMP4 expression is fundamental for pituitary gland commitment from the ventral diencephalon, suppressing Shh expression in Rathke’s pouch. Pathogenic variants in BMP4 are reported in the literature with a broad phenotypic spectrum, including pituitary and brain malformations. Case Presentation. A five-year-old girl came to medical attention following a mild cervical trauma with onset of cervical pain. On clinical examination at birth, postaxial polydactyly type B of the left hand was observed and removed at 10 months of age. A cervical radiography was performed, and a suspicion of craniocervical junction malformation was made. A magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine was made, showing an ectopic posterior pituitary, associated with dysmorphism of the craniocervical junction. The anthropometric parameters were pubertal Tanner stage 1, weight 16 kg (z-score: −1.09), height 107 cm (z-score: −0.76), and BMI 14 kg/m2 (z-score: −0.92). Normal hormonal assessment was detected. Genetic analysis via next generation sequencing showed a novel de novo heterozygous variant (c.277 G > T, p.Glu93

∗

) in exon 3 of BMP4. Discussion. We described a novel mutation in BMP4, resulting in ectopic posterior pituitary with normal hormonal assessment, associated to craniocervical junction dysmorphism and limb anomaly. It is important to monitor patient’s growth and puberty and to screen the onset of symptoms related to the deficiency of one or more anterior as well as posterior pituitary hormones.
Bacterial Diversity and Community Structure of the Jujube Rhizosphere in Southern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
Authors: Liu Zhaoyang , Ji Bingcong , Zhang Yaqing , Liu Xunli
Published: May 2022

Jujube is an important economic crop in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Microbial diversity in the rhizosphere is essential for plant quality; however, soil bacterial diversity and community structure in the jujube rhizosphere have not been characterized in this region. In this study, we used pyrosequencing to analyze bacterial diversity and community structure at different growth stages in the jujube rhizosphere in Hetian, Kashi, and Aksu prefectures. These results revealed a greater bacterial diversity in the 8-year jujube rhizosphere as compared with the 3-year-old rhizosphere taken from the same sampling area. Moreover, samples obtained from Kashi prefecture showed the largest diversity among the different areas. The most abundant phyla across all soil samples were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes. Dominant phyla in the 8-year jujube rhizosphere accounted for the increased observed diversity. Furthermore, comparative analysis of the bacterial communities with respect to rhizosphere age and sampling areas revealed a significant correlation between soil properties and phyla diversity. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of jujube rhizosphere bacterial diversity and community structure in the southern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and we hope that our research provides a reference for future studies.
Gasto energético em paciente amputado transtibial com prótese e muletas
Authors: Gaspar Alexandra Passos , Ingham Sheila Jean McNeill , Chamlian Therezinha Rosane
Published: May 2022

Pacientes com amputação transtibial têm um maior gasto energético durante a marcha com a prótese, necessitando consumir 20% a mais de oxigênio quando comparados a indivíduos normais na mesma velocidade relativa. Fisher et al. estudaram o gasto energético em pacientes não amputados em uso de muletas em terreno plano e escadas; concluíram que o volume de oxigênio (VO2) destes indivíduos atingia 40% do máximo esperado para os mesmos e que a freqüência cardíaca chegava à 62% da máxima prevista e portanto, que o uso de muletas em pacientes cardiopatas deveria ser feito com restrições. O gasto energético durante a marcha com muletas axilares é aproximadamente duas vezes maior quando comparada à marcha normal. O objetivo deste trabalho é comparar o gasto energético em pacientes amputados de membro inferior com uso de prótese e muletas. O paciente foi avaliado em relação ao gasto energético com prótese e com muletas axilares através do teste de Shuttle. O instrumento para avaliação foi o K4b2Ò, espiromêtro portátil da Cosmed. Nossos dados mostram que o paciente possui menor gasto energético com a prótese e portanto, percorre uma distância maior do que com as muletas.
Perfil sociodemográfico e de saúde de solicitantes de refúgio no Rio de Janeiro, 2016–2017
Authors: Cavalcante João Roberto , Proença Raquel , Cano Ignacio , Trajman Anete , Faerstein Eduardo
Published: May 2022

OBJETIVO Analisar o perfil sociodemográfico e as condições de saúde autorrelatadas por solicitantes de refúgio no Rio de Janeiro. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal de dados secundários, coletados de formulários de solicitação de refúgio preenchidos em 2016 e 2017, na Cáritas Arquidiocesana do Rio de Janeiro (Cáritas-RJ). Foram realizadas análises descritivas e calculadas frequências absolutas, relativas e intervalos de 95% de confiança. RESULTADOS Foram identificados formulários preenchidos por 818 solicitantes de refúgio, originários de 49 países diferentes, dos quais 126 (20,3%) eram apátridas, 510 (62,7%) do sexo masculino, 797 (97,4%) adultos, com idade média de 30,5 anos, 551 (73,5%) solteiros, 340 (44,1%) com ensino superior e 27 (4,0%) desempregados no país de origem antes da vinda para o Brasil. Entre os motivos declarados para solicitação de refúgio, destacaram-se o temor de perseguição por opinião política, violação de direitos humanos e risco de tortura. Para chegar ao Brasil, 629 (80,5%) viajaram somente de avião. Em relação às condições de saúde, 216 (29,0%) afirmaram ter algum sintoma, doença ou agravo em saúde, sendo as mais frequentes dores, problemas de visão, doenças infecciosas (incluindo HIV/aids) e hipertensão. Apenas 15 indivíduos (2,2%) relataram estar em algum tratamento médico ou psicológico; 42 (6,0%) relataram deficiências visuais, 14 (2,0%) relataram deficiências físicas e 4 (0,6%) deficiências auditivas. CONCLUSÕES Diferentemente de outros países, onde migrantes forçados de baixo grau de instrução entram por vias clandestinas marítimas ou terrestres, os solicitantes de refúgio residentes no Rio de Janeiro entre 2016 e 2017, eram, em sua maioria, adultos com ensino superior que migraram usando transporte aéreo. Apresentavam condições de saúde sensíveis à atenção primária que poderiam ser tratadas via acesso aos serviços públicos da atenção primária em saúde.
Aditivos alimentares na infância: uma revisão sobre consumo e consequências à saúde
Authors: Kraemer Mariana Vieira dos Santos , Fernandes Ana Carolina , Chaddad Maria Cecília Cury , Uggioni Paula Lazzarin , Rodrigues Vanessa Mello , Bernardo Greyce Luci , Proença Rossana Pacheco da Costa
Published: May 2022

OBJETIVO Discutir o contexto das publicações científicas sobre consumo de aditivos alimentares por crianças e as possíveis consequências à saúde nessa faixa etária. MÉTODOS Revisão de literatura, com busca realizada entre abril de 2020 e abril de 2021 nas bases de dados Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed e Google Acadêmico, bem como em sites de órgãos oficiais brasileiros e estrangeiros. Foram selecionados documentos oficiais e estudos publicados a partir do ano 2000. Para a busca, foram utilizados unitermos relacionados a aditivos alimentares, crianças, consumo alimentar e saúde. RESULTADOS Aditivos alimentares são substâncias adicionadas intencionalmente aos alimentos para fins tecnológicos. Os alimentos industrializados são as principais fontes de aditivos na alimentação e seu consumo ocorre desde a infância. Observa-se, contudo, que há limitações inerentes ao método científico no que tange à análise de consumo e de toxicidade de aditivos alimentares em humanos, ocasionando escassez de dados na literatura científica. Adicionalmente, dados existentes sugerem que os aditivos apresentam potencial tóxico maior em crianças, considerando que o peso corporal nessa faixa etária é menor em relação ao adulto. Esse contexto ressalta a necessidade de se observar o princípio da precaução, segundo o qual devem-se prevenir os riscos de dano. CONCLUSÕES Trata-se de cenário no qual a literatura aponta risco à saúde das pessoas e, em especial, das crianças, cujo dever de proteção deve ser ainda maior, com absoluta prioridade. Assim, pondera-se a relevância de um debate técnico-científico ampliado quanto ao estabelecimento de parâmetros específicos e mais rígidos para crianças, considerando consumo e toxicidade de aditivos, bem como as diversas fontes de exposição a essas substâncias.
Lectotypification in Helicanthes (Loranthaceae, Lorantheae)
Authors: DARSHETKAR ASHWINI M. , NADAF ALTAFHUSAIN B. , CHOUDHARY RITESH KUMAR , BARVKAR VITTHAL T.
Published: May 2022

N/A
Trichoderma bombaxalis sp. nov., isolated from rhizosphere soils of Lycium barbarum
Authors: YU SHUANG , WANG RUI , LIU HONG-WEI , ZHANG XUE , SUN JING-ZU
Published: May 2022

Trichoderma bombaxalis isolated from rhizosphere soils of five-year-old Lycium barbarum is described as a novel species. A combined approach is used to characterize T. bombaxalis including cultural and microscopic features, and phylogenetic analyses of the cascaded dataset of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, RNA polymerase II subunit (RPB2), and the translation elongation factor 1-α gene (TEF1-α). The phylogeny reveals that T. bombaxalis belongs to section Hypocreanum, and is closely related to T. austriacum, T. eucorticoides, T. sulphureum, T. subsulphureum and T. victoriense, but represents a novel taxon. These fungi are characterized by often producing verticillium-like conidiophores and ellipsoidal conidia. Distinctions between the new species and its close relatives are compared and discussed. The ability of T. bombaxalis to degrade cellulose and hemicellulose is also estimated.
Typifications of ten names related to Senna ser. Interglandulosae (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae)
Authors: SOUTO FLÁVIO SOUSA , AGRA MARIA DE FÁTIMA
Published: May 2022

Senna Mill. (Caesalpinioideae-Leguminosae) comprises approximately 350 species distributed in the Americas, Asia, Africa, Madagascar, Australia, and Pacific Islands. It is a taxonomically complex group and, for more than two centuries, Senna was considered part of Cassia L. The segregation of Cassia, belonging to the subtribe Cassiinae H.S. Irwin & Barneby, into three distinct genera (Cassia senso stricto, Chamaecrista [L.] Moench, and Senna) was based on floral and fruit morphologies. In this work we lectotypified ten names related to the Senna ser. Interglandulosae (Benth.) H.S. Irwin & Barneby (Cassia acuruensis Benth., C. aversiflora Herb., C. centijuga Wawra, C. holwayana Rose, C. huancabambae Harms, C. lindleyana Gardner, C. mutissiana Kunth, C. selloi G. Don, C. semifalcata Vell., and C. verrucosa Vogel) and designate an epitype for C. aversiflora.
Swertia pahalgamensis (Gentianaceae), a new species from Kashmir Himalaya, India
Authors: ISLAM TAJAMUL , KHUROO ANZAR AHMAD , NAWCHOO IRSHAD A.
Published: May 2022

Swertia pahalgamensis (Gentianaceae), a new species from Kashmir Himalaya, India is described here with photographic illustrations. The new species resembles with Swertia thomsonii in some morphological characters, but differs clearly in having basal leaves elliptic-spathulate with acute apices, petals yellowish green, ovate, sub-obtuse apices, nectar guides with prominent bluish straight lines, nectaries viscous, sub-confluent, round to cushion-shaped, number, size and orientation of fimbriae, anthers oblong, seeds oval-round with wider wings.
A new species and new records of Gnorimoschemini (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae) from Ecuador
Authors: BIDZILYA OLEKSIY , CHANG PATRICIA ESTHER CORRO
Published: May 2022

Scrobipalpula onorei sp. nov. is described from Las Pampas, Ecuador. The species is tentatively placed near Scrobipalpula densata (Meyrick, 1917) and S. caustonae Landry, 2010 based on both having a slender, elongate phallus and a bipartite corpus bursae without a signum. Eurysacca media Povolný, 1986 is recorded for the first time from Ecuador. Sexual dimorphism in structures of abdominal segments VII–VIII are described for the first time for E. media. The female of this species has patches of melanized scales on abdominal segment VII. The diagnosis of the species is updated with descriptions and illustration of additional details of external morphology and characters of male and female genitalia. We also provide an annotated list of Gnorimoschemini from Ecuador.
Review of some mites of the genus Ololaelaps Berlese (Acari, Laelapidae) in Russia, with description of a new species
Authors: JOHARCHI OMID , STANYUKOVICH MARIA K. , ASYAMOVA OLGA S. , DÖKER ISMAIL , TOLSTIKOV ANDREI V.
Published: May 2022

This study provides additional morphological information and new illustrations for three species of Ololaelaps Berlese described by Bregetova & Koroleva (1964) from Russia—O. caucasicus, O. sellnicki and O. ussuriensis—to supplement the original descriptions. Since holotypes for these three species were not designated, a lectotype is chosen from among the syntypes of each examined species. We describe the adult male and female of Ololaelaps altaiensis Joharchi sp. nov., from specimens collected from moss on the shore of the Teletskoye Lake, in Altai Mountains, Russia. The new species is distinguished from other Ololaelaps species by its short peritremes, ending near the middle of coxae II. The new species also has elongate paradactyli, extending well beyond the pretarsal claws; this feature appears to be correlated with the species’ semiaquatic habitat, and such correlation between tarsal morphology and ecology occurs in other species of Ololaelaps and of Gaeolaelaps with similar habitats.
Report of suctorian ciliates (Ciliophora, Suctorea) as epibionts on meiobenthic nematodes in an oxygen minimum zone of the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean
Authors: CHATTERJEE TAPAS , SAUTYA SABYASACHI , DOVGAL IGOR , GAIKWAD SANTOSH
Published: May 2022

Three suctorian ciliate species, Paracineta livadiana (Mereschkowsky, 1881), Loricophrya bosporica Sergeeva & Dovgal, 2014 and Acinetopsis lynni Baldrighi et al., 2020 are found as epibionts on meiobenthic nematodes in an oxygen minimum zone of the Arabian Sea. All three species are recorded here for the first time from the Indian Ocean.
Hospital and Professional Charges and Reimbursement Patterns in Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Casar Berazaluce Alejandra M. , Frischer Jason S.
Published: May 2022

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an expensive therapeutic modality. We sought to identify the main charge contributors to patient bills and analyze their patterns of reimbursement. We additionally sought to evaluate the impact of 2015 Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code changes in professional billing for pediatric surgeons.

Methods

A retrospective review of ECMO cases at a standalone quaternary children’s hospital between 2008-2017 was performed. Itemized hospital and professional bills were analyzed.

Results

Top charges included room rates, nitric oxide, medications, invasive support and monitoring, and laboratory testing. Average reimbursement was ∼60% for hospital and ∼36% for professional bills. CPT code changes in 2015 represented a 65% reduction in RVUs and 46% reduction in professional charges. Medicaid reimbursement for professional billing remained stable at 9%, and commercial reimbursement fell from 70% to 59% during the study period.

Conclusions

The main drivers of ECMO charges are unrelated to ECMO supplies or surgery. Evidence-based guidelines for ECMO management could make a difference in healthcare expenditure. Modern CPT codes depreciate RVUs and professional charges, compromising revenue. As the infrastructure required to provide this service is costly, diminishing returns may limit access to this therapy.
Decoding Loafers’ College: Social Exclusion and Critical Pedagogic Possibilities
Authors: Dey Subroto
Published: May 2022

In the last few decades, universities in India have witnessed the joining of a record number of students from marginalized communities and oftentimes struggle. This expansion of access has brought about changes within classrooms and college campuses, sometimes giving rise to contention and causing numerous conflicts as well. Centered around my experiences of teaching in a working-class college in Bangalore, a metropolitan city in Southern India, this paper offers reflections on education in challenging circumstances. Further, the essay explores the possibilities of democratic pedagogic practices through the theoretical framework of Maitri.
COVID-19 Containment: Comparisons and Suggestions for Global Response
Authors: Cheng Sixiang , Zhao Yuxin , Kaminga Atipatsa Chiwanda , Wang Xiaofen , Zhang Xinping , Xu Huilan
Published: May 2022

Background

The 2019-nCoV (COVID-19) is spreading at an alarming rate worldwide. Therefore, it is currently one of the biggest global health challenges. This research review describes the differences in response to the coronavirus epidemic between countries across the world. In addition, an opinion that the experience of China in response against the epidemic would play an important role globally in the battle against the novel coronavirus has been discussed as well as the insufficient and delayed response by other countries.

Objectives

To provide an overview of China’s experience in the control and prevention of the COVID-19, and compare it to that of other countries.

Methods

Relevant literature for this review was obtained from the Chinese government website; the World Health Organization website; Johns Hopkins University website; the European Centre for Disease Prevention website; and the PubMed databases. In addition, related news channels were used to obtain information.

Results

China’s experience in the fight against COVID-19 provides valuable insight into the handling of this epidemic, and suggests that promoting cooperation between countries is imperative for effective control and prevention measures against this global virus pandemic.

Conclusions

China’s experience suggests that the following measures were effective in the fight against COVID-19: “social isolation,” “medical observation,” “social distancing” or “limited contact with people,” “self-protection,” and combined modern public health intervention measures. These findings could help control outbreaks in other countries and regions across the world.
The nexus between the Baltic governments and think tanks as instruments of foreign and security policy
Authors: Bardauskaitė Danguolė
Published: May 2022

This study aims to unveil the nexus between the governments of the Baltic states and think tanks (TTs), which work on foreign and security policy. The article argues that the Baltic governments wish to use TTs as instruments of foreign policies, as they are highly interested in influencing well-known TTs abroad to further their national interests. The Baltic states undertake a good deal of effort to contribute to debates in the capitals of the powerful nations through the TT channel, hoping that some form of support can be gained for their positions in the international arena. Meanwhile, the governments expect domestic TTs to be visible internationally and influence policy debates by sending Baltic-favourable messages to foreign policy communities. On the other side of the nexus, TTs adapt to government expectations while also trying to maintain some level of independence. The process of using TTs as instruments to further the aims of governments is based mainly on the perceptions of government officials themselves, who are convinced that TTs should serve policy goals. Governments dominate the nexus because TTs depend on governmental support and/or wish to be helpful in furthering governmental goals.
“Who you know affects what you know”: Knowledge transfer in the university–private partnership – a social capital perspective
Authors: Hakami Maram , Pradhan Sojen , Mastio Emmanuel
Published: May 2022

The research literature on university–private partnerships shows that these partnerships can contribute significantly to the building of a knowledge-based economy. At the heart of this contribution is the practice of knowledge transfer. Through the analytical lens of social capital theory, this paper reports on a systematic review of 23 studies, from 2000 to 2021, on partnerships between universities and private sector organisations. The findings reveal inconsistencies in knowledge transfer, especially from the perspective of the cognitive frame of this theory. Based on these findings, a more rigorous theoretical framework is proposed for the enhancement of knowledge transfer in such partnerships, as moderated by the intermediary factor, and future research directions are suggested.
Fear, disgust, hate: negative emotions evoked by animals in ancient literature
Authors: Kostuch Lucyna
Published: May 2022

Ancient literature contains thoughts, observations and opinions about animals causing fear, disgust or hate that can be of great interest to scientists researching the problem of phobias, fears and anxieties in history. So in this article, it is argued that we can go as far back as ancient times in the research on the history of animal phobias (or, speaking more generally, in research on the entire spectrum of negative emotions evoked by animals in individuals or in entire social groups or societies). In that period, the phenomenon was observed and described in an anecdotal form, and attempts to establish the causes of this phenomenon were undertaken. This article discusses these early ideas about phobias, fears and anxieties related to animals.
Sacrificing long hair and the domestic sphere: Reporting on female medical workers in Chinese online news during Covid-19
Authors: Sun Xinmei , Chałupnik Małgorzata
Published: May 2022

In the context of the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, female medical staff constituted a large proportion of frontline healthcare workers in China, with 50% of doctors and over 90% of nurses being women. In this paper, we aim to examine how these medical workers were represented at the start of the pandemic in online news reports posted on one of China’s most popular social media platforms, Weibo. In the paper, we draw upon corpus-based critical discourse analysis, comparing representations of female medical workers to those of medical workers in general. We observe that not only are female medical workers portrayed through a predominantly gendered lens, but they are also subordinated to the needs of the state. We consider the role played by state-controlled media in regulating the position of (working) women in society and probe into rhetorical means through which this is achieved.
Assessing Dysfunctional Expectations in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Development and Validation of the Posttraumatic Expectations Scale (PTES)
Authors: Herzog Philipp , Kaiser Tim , Rief Winfried , Brakemeier Eva-Lotta , Kube Tobias
Published: May 2022

Dysfunctional expectations are a particularly important subset of cognitions that influence the development and maintenance of various mental disorders. This study aimed to develop and validate a scale to assess dysfunctional expectations in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the “Posttraumatic Expectations Scale” (PTES). In a cross-sectional study, 70 PTSD patients completed the PTES, the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (PTCI), as well as measures of the severity of symptoms of PTSD and depression. The results show that the PTES has excellent internal consistency and correlates significantly with the PTCI and PTSD symptom severity. A regression analysis revealed that the PTES explained variance of PTSD symptom severity above the PTCI, supporting the incremental validity of the PTES. While the original version of the PTES comprises 81 items, short scales were constructed using the BISCUIT (best items scales that are cross-validated, unit-weighted, informative and transparent) method. The current findings provide preliminary psychometric evidence suggesting that the PTES is an internally consistent and valid novel self-report measure in patients with PTSD. However, conclusions about the psychometric properties of the PTES are limited because of the absence of criterion-related validity, factor structure evidence, variability over time/response to intervention, and test–retest reliability. Future research should use the PTES in large-scale longitudinal studies to address these aspects to further validate the scale.
An excellent harmonic feedforward-sliding mode output feedback hybrid algorithm for helicopter active vibration control
Authors: Lang Kai , Shang Lina , Xia Pinqi , Song Laishou
Published: May 2022

Higher harmonic control algorithms in frequency domain are generally used for active vibration control of helicopter fuselage. However, these algorithms are inefficient to control transient vibration caused by rapid changing of helicopter flight conditions. Time domain feedback algorithms are efficient to control the transient vibration. In this paper, an excellent harmonic feedforward-sliding mode output feedback hybrid algorithm by combining frequency and time domain algorithms is presented to improve the effect and performance of active vibration control of helicopter fuselage, meanwhile to avoid the requirement of full state information of control system due to using the time domain algorithms. The convergence criterions of the harmonic feedforward algorithm and the hybrid algorithm are theoretically derived, respectively. The convergence speed of the hybrid algorithm is theoretically proved to be faster than that of the harmonic feedforward algorithm. Active vibration control simulation and experiment on a dynamically similar and geometrically scaled frame structure of a helicopter fuselage verify the proposed hybrid algorithm with excellent control effect and performance.
Inverse drainage Nd:YAG membranotomy for pre-macular hemorrhage
Authors: Babu Naresh , Kohli Piyush , Rajan Renu P , Ramasamy Kim
Published: May 2022

Aim

To report the outcomes of the “inverse drainage Nd:YAG laser membranotomy” technique for the management of pre-macular hemorrhage (PMH), which has its inferior margin near the fovea.

Methods

This retrospective study included eyes with PMH, with its inferior margin located within 0.5 disc-diameter (DD) of the fovea. Laser membranotomy was performed near the superior margin of PMH followed by intravitreal injection of 0.3 mL undiluted sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas. The patients were advised to maintain a prone position for three days.

Results

Twenty patients (20 eyes) with a mean age of 46.1 ± 18.6 years were included in the study. The mean duration of symptoms was 6.9 ± 7.0 days. The mean size of PMH was 4.1 ± 1.2DD. The causes of PMH were Valsalva retinopathy (n = 11) and retinal artery macroaneurysm (RAM, n = 9). The mean maximum height of the blood collection, measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT), within 1 disc-diameter from the inferior and superior borders of the PMH was 738.9 ± 232.9μm and 1240.6 ± 338.1μm respectively ( p = 0.001). The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from logMAR 1.32 ± 0.44 (Snellen equivalent, 20/418) to logMAR 0.11 ± 0.20 (Snellen equivalent, 20/26) ( p = 0.001). Vitrectomy was not required in any case. Persistent pre-macular cavity, macular hole, epiretinal membrane (ERM), intra-ocular pressure spike, or rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) was not noted in any patient.

Conclusion

This technique can be safely used to treat eyes with PMH having its inferior margin near the fovea.
Increased risk of high-grade heterotopic ossification using direct lateral approach versus a muscle-sparing anterolateral approach to the hip: radiological results from a randomised trial in patients with a femoral neck fracture treated with hemiarthroplasty
Authors: Tellefsen Raymond A , Ugland Terje , Bjørndal Maria M , Ugland Stein , Pripp Are Hugo , Nordsletten Lars
Published: May 2022

Background and purpose:

Hemiarthroplasty is a common treatment in patients with displaced femoral neck fracture. Due to positive claims of less pain, earlier mobilisation and favourable functional outcome, the anterior approaches to the joint are gaining in popularity. This randomised controlled trial investigated if component placement and heterotopic ossification differed between a muscle sparing anterior approach and a direct lateral approach.

Patients and methods:

150 patients operated with an uncemented hemiarthroplasty, were randomised to anterolateral or direct lateral approach and assessed postoperatively radiologically. Measurements included leg-length discrepancy, femoral offset, femoral stem position, canal fill ratio and the presence of heterotopic ossification after 12 months.

Results:

There was an increased risk of high-grade heterotopic ossification in the direct lateral approach ( p < 0.05). We found no statistically significant differences in leg-length discrepancy, femoral stem position or femoral offset.

Conclusions:

Hemiarthroplasty performed in the direct lateral approach resulted in a higher incidence of Brooker grade 3 heterotopic ossification. Our results support equal geometrical restoration and similar component placement with both approaches.

Clinical trial registry:

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03974698 Uncemented Hemiarthroplasty, Radiological Features Comparing Lateral Versus Anterolateral Approach https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03974698?term=raymond+tellefsen…draw=2…rank=1
Hemodialysis vascular access in elderly patients: A comprehensive review
Authors: Yan Teófilo , Gameiro Joana , Grilo João , Filipe Rui , Rocha Ernesto
Published: May 2022

The number of elderly patients initiating hemodialysis (HD) increased considerably over the past decade. Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are the preferred vascular access (VA) type in most HD patients. Choice of VA for older hemodialysis patients presents a challenge. The higher incidence of comorbidities, longer AVF maturation times, risk of primary failure, risk of patency loss, and shorter life expectancy are important factors to consider. In this review we provide a comprehensive analysis on maturation rates, primary failure, patency, and mortality regarding vascular access in patients older than 75 years of age.
A Case of Late-Onset Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder Associated With Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia
Authors: Ra Seung Won , Lim Soyeoun , Cha Hee jeong , Kim Sunyoung
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Systemic diseases can be found in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) as a co-existing disease with paraneoplastic syndrome, sarcoidosis, or connective tissue disease. Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP) in NMOSD with no evidence of these systemic disorders has rarely been reported.

Case presentation:

We present a 75-year-old patient who showed multifocal longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis and bilateral lung lesions that was seropositive for aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody. The patient initially presented with chronic cough, myalgia, and severe bilateral truncal neuropathic pain, and initial chest computed tomography demonstrated multifocal consolidations with reversed halo sign involving both lobes. Since this patient was over 50 years of age, our differential diagnoses included lung cancer and sarcoidosis. Through extensive studies including lung biopsy, an idiopathic type of diffuse interstitial lung disease—cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP)—was finally diagnosed. The patient was treated with high-dose methylprednisolone and it was tapered with oral steroids; mycophenolate mofetil was later added to the regimen. After treatment, the severe neuropathic pain and multifocal lung consolidation resolved.

Conclusion:

Herein, we presented a case of late-onset NMO with nonneoplastic, nonsarcoidosis, diffuse interstitial lung lesions, which is the finding of COP.
Staff perspectives on barriers to and facilitators of quality of life, health, wellbeing, recovery and reduced risk for older forensic mental-health patients: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Walker Kate , Yates Jen , Dening Tom , Völlm Birgit , Tomlin Jack , Griffiths Chris
Published: May 2022

Objectives

There is a lack of research informing service delivery for older forensic mental health patients. This study explored service provision in forensic mental health inpatient and community services in England, investigating what is required for progress in terms of quality of life, health, wellbeing, recovery and reduced risk, and the barriers and facilitators associated with this.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 48 members of staff working with older forensic mental health patients in secure inpatient units or the community in England. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Two global themes ‘What works’ and ‘What doesn’t work’ were identified comprising themes representing environmental, interpersonal and individual factors. ‘What works’ included: positive social support and relationships; individualised holistic patient-centred care; hub and spoke approach to patient care; and suitable environments. ‘What doesn’t work’ included: absence of/or maladaptive relationships with family and friends; gaps in service provision; and unsuitable environments.

Conclusions

For older patients to progress to improved quality of life, health, wellbeing and reduced risk, multilevel and comprehensive support is required, comprising a range of services, interventions, and multidisciplinary input, and individualised to each patient’s needs. The physical environment needs to be adapted for older patients and provide a social environment that seeks to include supportive families, friends and expert professional input. A clear patient progression pathway is required; this must be reflected in policy and provision.