bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taxonomic Revision of the Spider Genus Actinopus Perty, 1833 (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Actinopodidae)
Authors: MIGLIO LAURA TAVARES , PÉREZ-MILES FERNANDO , BONALDO ALEXANDRE B.
Published: June 2021

Actinopus Perty, 1833 is characterized and redescribed, including 80 species occurring from Panama to Argentina. Eighteen previously known species are redescribed: A. rufipes (Lucas, 1834); A. longipalpis C. L. Koch, 1842; A. nattereri (Doleschall, 1871); A. crassipes (Keyserling, 1891); A. robustus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1892); A. wallacei F. O. P.-Cambridge, 1896; A. princeps Chamberlin, 1917; A. xenus Chamberlin, 1917; A. fractus Mello-Leitão, 1920; A. paranensis Mello-Leitão, 1920; A. pusillus Mello-Leitão, 1920; A. dubiomaculatus Mello-Leitão, 1923; A. trinotatus Mello-Leitão, 1938; A. cucutaensis Mello-Leitão, 1941; A. echinus Mello-Leitão, 1949; A. clavero Ríos-Tamayo & Goloboff, 2018; A. gerschiapelliarum Ríos-Tamayo & Goloboff, 2018; and A. palmar Ríos-Tamayo & Goloboff, 2018. Additionally, A. tarsalis Perty, 1833, the type species, A. insignis (Holmberg, 1881) and other 18 species recently described species from Argentina and Bolivia, are re-evaluated. Forty-two new species are described: Actinopus castelo sp. nov., A. apalai sp. nov., A. mairinquensis sp. nov., A. obidos sp. nov., A. buritiensis sp. nov., A. pinhao sp. nov., A. ducke sp. nov., A. hirsutus sp. nov., A. jaboticatubas sp. nov., A. confusus sp. nov., A. pampulha sp. nov., A. candango sp. nov., A. paraitinga sp. nov., A. cornelli sp. nov., A. vilhena sp. nov., A. harveyi sp. nov., A. itapitocai sp. nov., A. ipioca sp. nov., A. itaqui sp. nov., A. xingu sp. nov., A. mesa sp. nov., A. caxiuana sp. nov., A. utinga sp. nov., A. emas sp. nov., A. bocaina sp. nov., A. osbournei sp. nov., A. dioi sp. nov., A. tutu sp. nov., A. azaghal sp. nov., A. itacolomi sp. nov., A. parafundulus sp. nov., A. urucui sp. nov., A. reznori sp. nov., A. anselmoi sp. nov., A. guajara sp. nov., A. apiacas sp. nov., A. jamari sp. nov. from Brazil; A. laventana sp. nov. from Argentina and Uruguay; A. lomalinda sp. nov. from British Guiana and Colombia; A. concinnus sp. nov. from Venezuela and Brazil; A. pindapoy sp. nov. from Argentina; A. panguana sp. nov. from Peru. The females of A. dubiomaculatus and A. cucutaensis and the males of A. nattereri are described for the first time. New records are presented for A. clavero; A.crassipes; A. dubiomaculatus; A. fractus; A. gerschiapelliarum; A. nattereri; A. palmar; A. paranensis; A. princeps, A. pusillus, A. robustus and A. wallacei. Ten old species names are herein considered species inquirendae: A. caraiba (Simon, 1889); A. harti Pocock, 1895; A. liodon (Ausserer, 1875); A. nigripes (Lucas, 1834); A. pertyi Lucas, 1843; A. piceus (Ausserer, 1871); A. rojasi (Simon, 1889); A. rufibarbis Mello-Leitão, 1930; A. scalops (Simon, 1889) and A. valencianus (Simon, 1889). Most species presently recognized were included in 11 informal groups based mainly on male palpal characters. A key for these groups plus three species, not included in any group, but known from males, is presented.
All genera of the world: an introduction to the inventory
Authors: ZHANG ZHI-QIANG
Published: June 2021

The ’All genera of the world’ series was announced by Zhang (2020) when Megataxa was launched. It aims to publish a full list of all genera (living and fossil) in a current consensus classification, including species richness, type species, and synonyms/homonyms (if any) for each genus. Original references for the generic names, type species, and nomenclatural changes should be checked and listed. This series, when completed, will provide a basis for a full inventory of life on Earth. It is an extension of a previous series of papers to the family level for animal diversity (Zhang 2011, 2013). The series invites individual taxonomists or a large team to submit small articles or large monographs for their taxa.
All genera of the world: Order Thysanoptera (Animalia: Arthropoda: Insecta)
Authors: MOUND LAURENCE A. , HASTENPFLUG-VESMANIS ANDREA
Published: June 2021

There are 1270 genus-group names available in the Insect Order Thysanoptera by the end of 2020. Of these, 850 refer to currently accepted genera, including 65 genera of fossils. A further 420 genus-group names are placed in synonymy. Of the currently accepted genera 474 have been described since 1950. Despite this descriptive activity, the supra-generic classification of Thysanoptera genera remains poorly structured with relationships largely obscure and 50% of the genera monobasic.
All genera of the world: Order †Lophioneurida—fossil out-groups of Thripida (Animalia: Arthropoda: Insecta)
Authors: ULITZKA MANFRED R.
Published: June 2021

The present paper presents a compilation of the generic names available in the fossil insect order Lophioneurida (Insecta: Thripida). It comprises 18 accepted genera, 4 synonyms and one invalid homonym.
Stratospheric vacillations in a minimal contour dynamics model
Authors: Hitchcock Peter
Published: June 2021

A low-dimensional dynamical system that describes dynamical variability of the stratospheric polar vortex is presented. The derivation is based on a linearized, contour-dynamics representation of quasigeostrophic shallow water flow on a polar f-plane. The model consists of a single linear wave mode propagating on a near-circular patch of constant potential vorticity (PV). The PV jump at the vortex edge serves as an additional degree of freedom. The wave is forced by surface topography, and interacts with the vortex through a simplified parameterization of diabatic wave/mean flow interaction. The approach can be generalized to other geometries.

The resulting three-component system depends on four non-dimensional parameters, and the structure of the steady state solutions can be determined analytically in some detail. Despite its extreme simplification, the model exhibits variability that is closely analogous to the Holton-Mass model, a well-known and more complex dynamical model of stratospheric variability. The present model exhibits two stable steady solutions, one consisting of a strong vortex with a small amplitude wave and the second consisting of a weak vortex with a large amplitude wave. Periodic and aperiodic limit cycles are also identified, analogous to similar solutions in the Holton-Mass model. Model trajectories also exhibit a number of behaviors that have been identified in observations. A key insight is that the time-mean state of the vortex is predominantly controlled by the properties of the linear mode, while the strength of the topographic forcing plays a far weaker role away from bifurcations.
Protest as One Political Act in Individuals’ Participation Repertoires: Latent Class Analysis and Political Participant Types
Authors: Oser Jennifer
Published: June 2021

This study advances research on the role of protest in individual-level participation repertoires by examining how latent class analysis can be used to identify distinctive types of political participants. This methodological approach requires shifting researchers’ traditional theoretical and analytical focus on protest as a single political act to the ways in which political actors combine protest with other political behaviors. From a theoretical perspective, the study examines the increased salience of research on the causes and consequences of protest in the context of individuals’ broader participation repertoires. From a methodological perspective, an illustrative analysis is conducted using the 2016 American National Election Studies survey to test theoretical expectations about the relationship between protest and civic duty. The study concludes with a discussion of how latent class analysis can be used to advance research on protest as one political act in individuals’ broader repertories of political participation.
Parents Outcomes of Parent-Mediated Intervention for Toddlers With Autism
Authors: Liu Xinyue , Schertz Hannah H.
Published: June 2021

Parent-mediated intervention can enhance parents’ competence in supporting parent–child social interactions. Research and current policy have highlighted the importance of building family capacity in supporting parents to help children with autism develop social communication abilities. Parents who experienced parent-mediated interventions have reported reduced parenting stress; however, few studies have examined parents’ learning outcomes from such interventions for children with autism. We assessed parents’ learning outcomes from participation in the Joint Attention Mediated Learning (JAML) intervention and explored differences in parents’ application of mediated learning principles between intervention and control groups. We used parent–child interaction videos to analyze parents’ application of mediated learning principles with their toddlers in home settings and found significant group differences in parents’ application of the principles at postintervention. Parents in the intervention group showed significant improvements in their competence in mediating child learning in unstructured parent–child interactions, but there were no significant gains for parents in the control group.
Using the CDC Worksite Health ScoreCard to Promote Organizational Change
Authors: Safeer Richard Scott , Lucik Meg Mia , Christel Katherine Claire
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

To measure the impact of tying adoption of evidence-based worksite health promotion (WHP) interventions to annual organizational strategic objectives, as measured by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Worksite Health ScoreCard (ScoreCard).

Design:

A prospective cohort study following Johns Hopkins Medicine (JHM) affiliates against industry-specific and large employer benchmarks from 2016-2020.

Settings:

JHM, the largest private employer in Maryland with facilities in Florida and the District of Columbia.

Subjects:

Twelve JHM affiliates representing over 40,000 employees.

Intervention:

A strategic objective was established annually based on the ScoreCard and organizational priorities.

Measures:

JHM affiliates measured their WHP efforts annually using the ScoreCard. CDC industry-specific and large employer benchmarks were collected for comparison.

Analysis:

ScoreCard data was assessed annually to measure deviations from CDC benchmarks, determine whether strategic objectives were met, and inform additional annual objectives.

Results:

JHM demonstrated improvement from 8.9 percentage points above industry-specific and 3.4 percentage points below large employer benchmarks in 2016, to 26.4 percentage points above industry-specific and 21.8 percentage points above large employer benchmarks in 2020.

Conclusion:

Large employers face unique challenges in implementing WHP programs. Our study suggests embedding health promotion in annual strategic objectives may alleviate these challenges by prioritizing the goal and ensuring adequate resources to be successful. There are however, some limitations on using benchmarking data for comparison.
Atypical myopathy in 2 Bactrian camels
Authors: Hirz Manuela , Gregersen Henrike A. , Sander Johannes , Votion Dominique M. , Schänzer Anne , Köhler Kernt , Herden Christiane
Published: June 2021

Atypical myopathy (AM) is an acute seasonal rhabdomyolysis seen primarily in equids, caused by the ingestion of sycamore maple samaras containing hypoglycin A (HGA) and methylenecyclopropyl-glycine (MCPG). Toxic metabolites inhibit acyl-CoA dehydrogenases and enoyl-CoA hydratases, causing selective hyaline degeneration of type I muscle fibers. Two zoo-kept Bactrian camels ( Camelus bactrianus) with a fatal course of AM had sudden onset of muscle pain and weakness, recumbency, and dysphagia, accompanied by increased serum creatine kinase activity and detection in serum of HGA, MCPG, and metabolites. Medical treatment was ineffective. At postmortem examination, sycamore maple tree material was found within the first gastric compartment of the 2-y-old gelding. Although musculature was macroscopically normal, histologically, monophasic hyaline degeneration was marked within type I fibers of intercostal and hypoglossal muscles of the gelding, and in neck, tongue, and masticatory muscles of the cow. The ingestion of sycamore maple material can cause AM in Bactrian camels, and trees of the Sapindaceae family should be avoided in enclosures.
Circ_0000615 promotes high glucose-induced human retinal pigment epithelium cell apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress via miR-646/YAP1 axis in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Zeng Qiang , Luo YiTing , Fang Junxu , Xu Shuang , Hu Yuan-Hua , Yin Ming
Published: June 2021

Background:

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a common complication of diabetes mellitus, is the major cause of visual impairment and blindness. Circ_0000615 was found to be elevated in retina samples of diabetic patients. Hence, the detailed effects and molecular mechanisms of circ_0000615 in DN progression were explored.

Methods:

The levels of circ_0000615, microRNA (miR)-646 and YAP1 (yes-associated protein 1) were detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays. Cell viability, apoptosis, inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation were determined using cell counting kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, caspase3 activity analysis, Western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay, respectively. The binding interaction between miR-646 and circ_0000615 or YAP1 was determined using dual-luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and RNA pull-down assays.

Results:

Circ_0000615 was elevated in high glucose (HG)-induced human retinal pigment epithelium (HRPE) cells. Knockdown of circ_0000615 attenuated HG-triggered HRPE cell apoptosis, inflammation, and ROS generation. Mechanistically, miR-646 was confirmed to be a target of circ_0000615, inhibition of miR-646 reversed the protective effects of circ_0000615 knockdown on HG-evoked HRPE cell dysfunction. MiR-646 was verified to target YAP1, overexpression of YAP1 abolished the impairment induced by miR-646 on HG-induced HRPE cell damage. Besides that, we confirmed that circ_0000615 could regulate YAP1 expression via miR-646.

Conclusion:

Circ_0000615 contributed to HG-induced HRPE cell dysfunction via miR-646/YAP1 axis, suggesting a novel insight into the pathogenesis of DR and a potential candidate for DR treatment.
Effectiveness, Safety, and Acceptance of an Interim Orthosis in Patients with Diabetes in the Immediate Postoperative Chopart Surgery
Authors: Balduzzi Gianmario , De Giglio Roberto , Masserini Benedetta , Formenti Ilaria , Lodigiani Sara , Mondello Teresa , Mumoli Nicola , Pintaudi Basilio , Di Vieste Giacoma
Published: June 2021

Chopart amputation is the consequence of severe diabetes-related foot complications. A new interim orthosis allowing the patient a greater degree of mobility after Chopart surgery than currently used systems is now available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the new orthosis compared with traditional treatment. Safety and level of patient acceptance of the device were also investigated. We performed a retrospective case–control observational study involving people with diabetes who underwent Chopart amputation between January 2016 and January 2018. The sample of subjects treated with the innovative orthosis was compared with consecutive patients, who were treated with traditional management. The main study outcomes include major amputation occurrence, ulcer recurrence, healing time, and patient acceptance of the orthosis. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using the Italian validated version of the Orthotic Prosthetic User's Survey (OPUS) questionnaire. Overall, 27 subjects were enrolled using the new device (mean age 68.7 ± 8.4 years, 70.4% males, mean diabetes duration 22.7 ± 15 years). Clinical baseline characteristics were comparable between the cases and the controls. There was no difference between the groups in the healed wound rate (81.5% vs 80.0% for cases and the control group, respectively, P = .53). The ulcer recurrence rate was higher in the control group compared with subjects using the new orthosis (62.5% vs 24.0%, respectively, P = .04). The use of the innovative orthosis was associated with an 81% lower probability to have ulcer recurrence (odds ratio 0.19, 95% confidence interval 0.04-1.04). No between groups difference was detected for a major amputation rate. The wound healing time was faster for cases compared with controls (160.4 ± 114.1 vs 256.5 ± 112.9 days, P = .05). No adverse events related to the use of the new orthosis were recorded. Patient acceptance of the new orthosis was high. This orthosis can be recommended as an efficient, safe, and well-accepted device after Chopart amputation.
Metal-on-Metal Disease in High-Motion Wrist Arthroplasty
Authors: Rothe Christopher J. , Sivakumar Brahman S. , Buchan Craig A. , Graham David J.
Published: June 2021

Metal-on-metal disease (MOMD) is a rare condition following arthroplasty and has predominantly been reported following hip and knee replacement. Isolated case reports exist with respect to MOMD following total wrist arthroplasty—however, the literature remains limited. Here, we present the history and radiographic and histopathologic features of such a case, and summarize the literature and provide management recommendations.
Impact of a Whole-Foods, Plant-Based Nutrition Intervention on Patients Living with Chronic Disease in an Underserved Community
Authors: Bansal Shipra , Connolly Meaghan , Harder Tasha
Published: June 2021

The current study evaluated the impact of a whole-foods, plant-based nutrition intervention on metabolic markers of patients with chronic disease in an underserved community setting. A retrospective analysis of metabolic biomarkers preintervention and postintervention was conducted on 31 patients with metabolic disease who attended an Eating for Life group visit series. Significant decreases were found for body mass index (BMI; −0.66 [−0.91 to −0.40] kg/m2), systolic blood pressure (−12 [−19 to −5] mm Hg), total cholesterol (−20 [−29 to −10] mg/dL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL; −11.6 [−17.5 to −5.5] mg/dL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL; −3.2 [−5.7 to −0.7] mg/dL, all Ps < .01). In participants with clinically abnormal preintervention data, the mean (95% CI) change significantly decreased for overweight (−0.45 [−0.85 to −0.05]) and obese (−0.76 [−1.13 to −0.39]) BMI, systolic blood pressure (−12 [−19 to −5] mm Hg), total cholesterol −22 [−40 to −4] mg/dL), and LDL (−15.6 [−23.8 to −7.4] mg/dL, all Ps ≤ .03). In conclusion, the Eating for Life model showed significant improvement in BMI, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and LDL in a federally qualified health center population. Group visits advocating for a whole-foods, plant-based diet may be effective in reducing chronic disease burden in underserved communities.
Role of awareness on cervical cancer screening uptake among HIV positive women in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Emru Kassahun , Abebaw Tsega-Ab , Abera Admas
Published: June 2021

Background:

Cervical cancer is the second commonest cancer among women living in less developed countries. Although cervical cancer screening for HIV-infected women has been started in different centers in Addis Ababa, there is a paucity of data on the uptake of this service, particularly among HIV-infected women.

Objective:

This study is aimed to assess the level and determinants of cervical cancer screening uptake among HIV-positive reproductive-age women in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire on 411 HIV-infected women aged 15–49 years in St. Paul’s and Zewditu Hospitals. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire on randomly selected study participants’ proportional allocation in the two hospitals. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess predictors of cervical cancer screening uptake.

Results:

Only 25.5% of HIV-positive reproductive-age women have been screened for cervical cancer. Respondents who have not heard about cervical cancer and the screening were 75% and 78% less likely to be screened compared to their counterparts, respectively.

Conclusion:

The uptake of cervical cancer screening was low in the study area. Awareness about cervical cancer screening was positively associated with cervical cancer screening uptake. Specific awareness programs focusing HIV positive women need to be implemented.
Bronchial brushing Xpert improves the diagnostic efficiency of sputum Xpert in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: He Yu , Wu Yan-Hua , Han Chao , Gong Huai-Zheng , Wang Mao-Shui
Published: June 2021

Background:

The role of bronchial brushing Xpert MTB/RIF (hereafter referred to as Xpert) in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) remains unclear. Therefore, a retrospective study was conducted aiming to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of bronchial brushing Xpert in patients with PTB.

Methods:

Between July 2018 and August 2019, suspected PTB patients who were admitted to our hospital and had bronchial brushing and matched sputum collection for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear, mycobacterial culture, and Xpert were included for further analysis. Subsequently, PTB was defined based on mycobacterial culture, and if an alternative diagnosis was established, ‘non-tuberculosis (TB)’ was considered. Comparison of bronchial brushing and matched sputum examination was performed between groups. Then, the differences in the sensitivities between bronchial brushing and sputum Xpert were examined using the chi-square test.

Results:

A total of 111 patients were included and divided into TB and non-TB groups (52 versus 59 patients). The sensitivities of Xpert against culture were calculated as follows: sputum, 44.2% (23/52); bronchial brushing, 59.6% (31/52); sputum and bronchial brushing, 69.2% (36/52). The specificities of all Xpert assays were the same (100.0%, 59/59). A significant difference was found in the comparison of the sensitivities of Xpert using sputum, bronchial brushing and both, and the sensitivity of Xpert on both sputum and bronchial brushing was higher than that on sputum alone ( p < 0.05). Moreover, it appears that bronchial brushing Xpert was more sensitive than sputum Xpert in the detection of PTB.

Conclusion:

Bronchial brushing Xpert improves the diagnostic efficiency of sputum Xpert in the detection of PTB.
Patterns of Technology Use Among Patients With Head and Neck Cancer and Implications for Telehealth
Authors: Warinner Chloe B. , Hayirli Tuna C. , Bergmark Regan W. , Sethi Rosh , Rettig Eleni M.
Published: June 2021

Objective

To describe baseline technology use within the head and neck cancer (HNC) population prior to the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data.

Setting

The NHIS is a survey of population health administered in person annually to a nationally representative sample of noninstitutionalized US residents via a complex clustered sampling design.

Methods

Data regarding technology use, cancer history, and demographics were extracted from the NHIS. The study population comprised individuals who completed the NHIS Sample Adult survey from 2012 to 2018 and self‐reported a cancer diagnosis. Poisson regression was used to evaluate associations between demographics and general or health‐related technology use and prevalence ratios reported.

Results

Patients with HNC were less likely to use general technology (computers, internet, or email) when compared with other patients with cancer (60% vs 73%, P <. 001), although this difference was not statistically significant after controlling for sociodemographic factors. Among patients with HNC, older age, lower education, and lower income were negatively associated with general technology use (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR], 0.71 [95% CI, 0.59‐0.87] for age 65‐79 years vs <50 years; aPR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.51‐0.85] for high school vs master; aPR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.48‐0.91] for income 100%‐200% vs >400% federal poverty level). Older age and lower education were negatively associated with health‐related technology use (aPR, 0.46 [95% CI, 0.32‐0.67] for age 65‐79 years vs <50 years; aPR, 0.47 [95% CI, 0.30‐0.74] for high school vs master).

Conclusion

Socioeconomic disparities exist in technology use rates among patients with HNC. Access to technology may pose a barrier to telehealth visits for many patients with HNC due to the unique socioeconomic demographics of this patient population.
Induction of ferroptosis by ATF3 elevation alleviates cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer by restraining Nrf2/Keap1/xCT signaling
Authors: Fu Dazhi , Wang Chunxiao , Yu Lei , Yu Rui
Published: June 2021

Background

Currently, resistance against cisplatin (DDP) is a frequent problem for the success of advanced gastric carcinoma (GC) chemotherapy. Here, we sought to investigate the function of activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) n GC chemoresistance.

Methods

Expression of ATF3 was determined in GC cell lines (MNK45, SGC7901, and BGC823) and cisplatin (DDP)-resistant cells (SGC7901/DDP and BGC823/DDP). Biological informatics was performed to analyze ATF3 expression and prognosis in GC patients. Cisplatin resistance was evaluated. Ferroptosis was detected after ATF3 transfection of cells. The underlying molecular mechanism was also investigated.

Results

Transcripts of ATF3 were decreased in GC cells and GC tissues. Kaplan–Meier plotter analysis revealed that ATF3 expression was positively related to the overall survival of GC patients. In particular, lower levels of ATF3 were observed in cisplatin-resistant SGC7901/DDP and BGC823/DDP relative to their parental cells. Notably, ATF3 elevation sensitized cisplatin-resistant cells to cisplatin. Mechanically, compared with parental cells, SGC7901/DDP and BGC823/DDP cells exhibited lower ferroptosis evident by lower ROS, MDA and lipid peroxidation and higher intracellular GSH levels. However, ATF3 elevated ferroptosis in SGC7901/DDP and BGC823/DDP cells. Intriguingly, ATF3 overexpression together with ferroptosis activator erastin or RSL3 treatment further enhanced ferroptosis and cisplatin resistance; however, the ferroptosis suppressor liproxstatin-1 reversed the function of ATF3 in ferroptosis and cisplatin resistance. Additionally, cisplatin-resistant cells exhibited stronger activation of Nrf2/Keap1/xCT signaling relative to parental cells, which was restrained by ATF3 up-regulation. Importantly, restoring Nrf2 signaling overturned ATF3-mediated ferroptosis and cisplatin resistance.

Conclusion

ATF3 may sensitize GC cells to cisplatin by induction of ferroptosis via blocking Nrf2/Keap1/xCT signaling, supporting a promising therapeutic approach for overcoming chemoresistance in GC.
Review of Recent Progress on Vertical GaN-Based PN Diodes
Authors: Pu Taofei , Younis Usman , Chiu Hsien-Chin , Xu Ke , Kuo Hao-Chung , Liu Xinke
Published: June 2021

As a representative wide bandgap semiconductor material, gallium nitride (GaN) has attracted increasing attention because of its superior material properties (e.g., high electron mobility, high electron saturation velocity, and critical electric field). Vertical GaN devices have been investigated, are regarded as one of the most promising candidates for power electronics application, and are characterized by the capacity for high voltage, high current, and high breakdown voltage. Among those devices, vertical GaN-based PN junction diode (PND) has been considerably investigated and shows great performance progress on the basis of high epitaxy quality and device structure design. However, its device epitaxy quality requires further improvement. In terms of device electric performance, the electrical field crowding effect at the device edge is an urgent issue, which results in premature breakdown and limits the releasing superiorities of the GaN material, but is currently alleviated by edge termination. This review emphasizes the advances in material epitaxial growth and edge terminal techniques, followed by the exploration of the current GaN developments and potential advantages over silicon carbon (SiC) for materials and devices, the differences between GaN Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) and PNDs as regards mechanisms and features, and the advantages of vertical devices over their lateral counterparts. Then, the review provides an outlook and reveals the design trend of vertical GaN PND utilized for a power system, including with an inchoate vertical GaN PND.
Challenging diagnosis of leprosy in a psychotic homeless patient with atypical clinical manifestations: an interesting case report
Authors: Gunawan Hendra , Johan Reyshiani , Achdiat Pati Aji , Suwarsa Oki
Published: June 2021

Background

A decision to diagnose certain skin diseases in patient undergoing psychotic break is challenging; this includes establishing the diagnosis of leprosy. Diagnosis of leprosy is established if there is at least one of the three cardinal signs of leprosy. Histopathological examination is not a gold standard, but remains useful in atypical or clinically suspicious cases.

Case presentation

We report for the first time, an interesting case of leprosy with atypical clinical manifestations in a psychotic homeless male with unknown history of present illness. Upon examination, hypopigmented macules, hyperpigmented macules, and plaques were observed, with unclear sensation impairment. Peripheral nerve thickening and acid-fast bacilli from slit-skin smear were not found. Histopathological examination from hypopigmented macule on the upper right limb showed no granulomatous reaction and other histopathological features of leprosy. Although the condition did not fulfill the cardinal signs of leprosy, we found lagophthalmos, claw hands, pseudomutilation of fingers and toes. Therefore, the diagnosis of suspected leprosy was established. The patient was hospitalized and attempts to administer oral rifampicin and clofazimine were made. Several days after treatment, annular erythematous macules appeared on the patient’s face, abdomen, and back. Histopathological examination results on sample taken from erythematous macule and right sural nerve were consistent with the diagnosis of leprosy with reversal reaction.

Conclusion

In certain conditions, histopathological examination of the skin and nerves are a highly rewarding test in establishing a diagnosis of leprosy.
Assessment of breast arteries and lymph nodes by 3D MR angiography enhancement imaging: feasibility and pilot clinical results
Authors: Liu Yang , Hou Jiaxin , Zhu Zhijun , Liu Bingguang , Cao Manrui , Qin Wenjian
Published: June 2021

Background

Conventional dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance (MR) hardly achieves a good imaging performance of arteries and lymph nodes in the breast area. Therefore, a new imaging method is needed for the assessment of breast arteries and lymph nodes.

Methods

We performed prospective research. The research included 52 patients aged from 25 to 64 between June 2019 and April 2020. The isotropic e-THRIVE sequence scanned in the coronal direction after DCE-THRIVE. Reconstructed images obtained by DCE-THRIVE and the coronal e-THRIVE were compared mainly in terms of the completeness of the lateral thoracic artery, thoracodorsal artery, and lymph nodes. We proposed a criterion for evaluating image quality. According to the criterion, images were assigned a score from 1 to 5 according to the grade from low to high. Two board-certified doctors evaluated images individually, and their average score was taken as the final result. The chi-square test was used to assess the difference.

Results

The coronal e-THRIVE score is 4.60, which is higher than the DCE-THRIVE score of 3.48, there are significant differences between the images obtained by two sequences (P = 1.2712e−8). According to the score of images, 44 patients (84.61%) had high-quality images on the bilateral breast. Only 3 patients’ (5.77%) images were not ideal on both sides. The improved method is effective for most patients to get better images.

Conclusions

The proposed coronal e-THRIVE scan can get higher quality reconstruction images than the conventional method to visualize the course of arteries and the distribution of lymph nodes in most patients, which will be helpful for the clinical follow-up treatment.
Interns’ perspectives on impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the medical school to residency transition
Authors: Winn Ariel S. , Weaver Matthew D. , O’Donnell Katherine A. , Sullivan Jason P. , Robbins Rebecca , Landrigan Christopher P. , Barger Laura K.
Published: June 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in disruptions to medical school training and the transition to residency for new post-graduate year 1 resident-physicians (PGY1s). Therefore, the aim of this study was to understand the perspectives of United States PGY1s regarding the impact of the pandemic on these experiences. Our secondary aims were to understand how desire to practice medicine was impacted by the pandemic and whether PGY1s felt that they were able to meaningfully contribute to the COVID-19 response as students.

Method

We conducted a national, cross-sectional study of PGY1s who had recently graduated from medical school in 2020. A survey was distributed to PGY1s from across specialties, in programs distributed throughout the United States. It included questions about medical school training during the pandemic, impact on graduation timing and transition to internship, concerns about caring for patients with COVID-19, desire to practice medicine, and ability to meaningfully contribute to the pandemic. Findings are presented using descriptive statistics and univariate logistic regression models.

Results

1980 PGY1s consented to participate, 1463 completed the survey (74%), and 713 met criteria for this analysis. 77% of PGY1s reported that the pandemic adversely affected their connection with their medical school communities, and 58% reported that the pandemic impeded their preparation for intern year. 4% of PGY1s reported graduating medical school and practicing as an intern earlier than their expected graduation date. While the majority of PGY1s did not have a change in desire to practice medicine, PGY1s with concerns regarding personal health or medical conditions (OR 4.92 [95% CI 3.20–7.55] p < 0.0001), the health or medical conditions of others in the home (OR 4.41 [2.87–6.77], p < 0.0001]), and PGY1s with children (OR 2.37 [1.23–4.58], p < 0.0001) were more likely to report a decreased desire.

Conclusions

The COVID pandemic disrupted the social connectedness and educational experiences of a majority of PGY1 residents in a sample of trainees in United States training programs. Those with health concerns and children had particularly challenging experiences. As the current and subsequent classes of PGY1s affected by COVID-19 proceed in their training, ongoing attention should be focused on their training needs, competencies, and well-being.
High-resolution spectral information enables phenotyping of leaf epicuticular wax in wheat
Authors: Camarillo-Castillo Fátima , Huggins Trevis D. , Mondal Suchismita , Reynolds Matthew P. , Tilley Michael , Hays Dirk B.
Published: June 2021

Background

Epicuticular wax (EW) is the first line of defense in plants for protection against biotic and abiotic factors in the environment. In wheat, EW is associated with resilience to heat and drought stress, however, the current limitations on phenotyping EW restrict the integration of this secondary trait into wheat breeding pipelines. In this study we evaluated the use of light reflectance as a proxy for EW load and developed an efficient indirect method for the selection of genotypes with high EW density.

Results

Cuticular waxes affect the light that is reflected, absorbed and transmitted by plants. The narrow spectral regions statistically associated with EW overlap with bands linked to photosynthetic radiation (500 nm), carotenoid absorbance (400 nm) and water content (~ 900 nm) in plants. The narrow spectral indices developed predicted 65% (EWI-13) and 44% (EWI-1) of the variation in this trait utilizing single-leaf reflectance. However, the normalized difference indices EWI-4 and EWI-9 improved the phenotyping efficiency with canopy reflectance across all field experimental trials. Indirect selection for EW with EWI-4 and EWI-9 led to a selection efficiency of 70% compared to phenotyping with the chemical method. The regression model EWM-7 integrated eight narrow wavelengths and accurately predicted 71% of the variation in the EW load (mg·dm−2) with leaf reflectance, but under field conditions, a single-wavelength model consistently estimated EW with an average RMSE of 1.24 mg·dm−2 utilizing ground and aerial canopy reflectance.

Conclusions

Overall, the indices EWI-1, EWI-13 and the model EWM-7 are reliable tools for indirect selection for EW based on leaf reflectance, and the indices EWI-4, EWI-9 and the model EWM-1 are reliable for selection based on canopy reflectance. However, further research is needed to define how the background effects and geometry of the canopy impact the accuracy of these phenotyping methods.
Estimating the tolerance of brachial plexus to hypofractionated stereotactic body radiotherapy: a modelling-based approach from clinical experience
Authors: Kapitanova Irina , Biswas Sharmi , Divekar Sabrina , Kemmerer Eric J. , Rostock Robert A. , Forster Kenneth M. , Grimm Rachel J. , Scofield Carla J. , Grimm Jimm , Emami Bahman , Mahadevan Anand
Published: June 2021

Background

Brachial plexopathy is a potentially serious complication from stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) that has not been widely studied. Therefore, we compared datasets from two different institutions and generated a brachial plexus dose–response model, to quantify what dose constraints would be needed to minimize the effect on normal tissue while still enabling potent therapy for the tumor.

Methods

Two published SBRT datasets were pooled and modeled from patients at Indiana University and the Richard L. Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center from 1998 to 2007, as well as the Karolinska Institute from 2008 to 2013. All patients in both studies were treated with SBRT for apically located lung tumors localized superior to the aortic arch. Toxicities were graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, and a probit dose response model was created with maximum likelihood parameter fitting.

Results

This analysis includes a total of 89 brachial plexus maximum point dose (Dmax) values from both institutions. Among the 14 patients who developed brachial plexopathy, the most common complications were grade 2, comprising 7 patients. The median follow-up was 30 months (range 6.1–72.2) in the Karolinska dataset, and the Indiana dataset had a median of 13 months (range 1–71). Both studies had a median range of 3 fractions, but in the Indiana dataset, 9 patients were treated in 4 fractions, and the paper did not differentiate between the two, so our analysis is considered to be in 3–4 fractions, one of the main limitations. The probit model showed that the risk of brachial plexopathy with Dmax of 26 Gy in 3–4 fractions is 10%, and 50% with Dmax of 70 Gy in 3–4 fractions.

Conclusions

This analysis is only a preliminary result because more details are needed as well as additional comprehensive datasets from a much broader cross-section of clinical practices. When more institutions join the QUANTEC and HyTEC methodology of reporting sufficient details to enable data pooling, our field will finally reach an improved understanding of human dose tolerance.
Maternal bile acid profile and subtype analysis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
Authors: Shao Yong , Chen Siyu , Li Huan , Tang Qin , Xu Di
Published: June 2021

Background

ICP pregnant women have a unique profile of serum bile acid metabolism, thus the early and accurate identification of ICP patients is beneficial to early appropriate treatment and improvement of pregnancy outcomes. In this study, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was used to analyze the 15 types of serum bile acid profiles among patients with ICP in third trimester, patients with cholelithiasis, and patients with hepatitis B virus. The ICP diagnostic model established by partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was used to screen the differential bile acids for clinical subtypes of ICP. 144 cases of ICP patients were involved in this study, and divided into four subgroups according to serum level of TBA, DBIL, and ALT.

Results

(1) The differential serum bile acid profiles of ICP group and normal pregnant women were DCA, TDCA, TCA, GDCA and GLCA. (2) The differential serum bile acid profiles of the ICP1 group (ICP with jaundice) and normal pregnant women were TCDCA, TCA, GCA, GCDCA, TUDCA and GUDCA. (3) The differential serum bile acid profiles of the ICP3 group (Hyperchoicemia of pregnancy) and normal pregnant group was GUDCA, LCA, GLCA, UDCA, TUDCA, CDCA, and TLCA (P < 0.05). (4) The differential serum bile acid profiles of ICP4 group (idiopathic aminotransferase abnormality during pregnancy) and normal pregnant group was UDCA, GUDCA, TUDCA, GCA and GLCA (P < 0.05). (5) The occurrence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid, premature delivery and cesarean section in ICP1 group was significantly higher than normal group, ICP2 group, ICP3 group, and ICP4 group (P < 0.05); The occurrence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid, premature delivery and cesarean section in ICP2 group, ICP3 group, and ICP4 group was significantly higher than normal group (P < 0.05), but no difference was found among ICP2 group, ICP3 group, and ICP4 group (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Maternal serum bile acid profiles are useful to differentiate the four subtypes of ICP. ICP with jaundice could be an important predictor of adverse pregnancy outcomes of ICP.
Inverse association of falciparum positivity with endemic Burkitt lymphoma is robust in analyses adjusting for pre-enrollment malaria in the EMBLEM case-control study
Authors: Peprah Sally , Ogwang Martin D. , Kerchan Patrick , Reynolds Steven J. , Tenge Constance N. , Were Pamela A. , Kuremu Robert T. , Wekesa Walter N. , Masalu Nestory , Kawira Esther , Otim Isaac , Legason Ismail D. , Ayers Leona W. , Bhatia Kishor , Goedert James J. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Mbulaiteye Sam M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Falciparum and endemic Burkitt lymphoma (eBL) are co-endemic in Africa, but the malaria experience in eBL patients is unknown. A lower prevalence of falciparum has been reported in eBL patients, but those results are anecdotally attributed to pre-enrollment anti-malaria treatment.

Methods

We studied 677 eBL patients and 2920 community controls aged 0–15 years enrolled in six regions in Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya during 2010–2016. Falciparum was diagnosed using thick blood film microscopy (TFM) and antigen-capture rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). Guardians of the children answered a 40-item structured questionnaire about their child’s pre-enrollment lifetime malaria history and treatment, demographics, socioeconomics, animal exposures, fevers, and hospitalizations. We utilized exploratory factor analysis to reduce the 40 questionnaire variables into six factors, including Inpatient malaria and Outpatient malaria factors that were surrogates of pre-enrollment anti-malaria treatment. The six factors accounted for 83–90% of the variance in the questionnaire data. We calculated odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (OR 95% CI) of association of eBL with falciparum positivity, defined as positive both on TFM or RDTs, or only RDTs (indicative of recent infection) or TFM (indicative of current falciparum infection) versus no infection, using multivariable logistic regression, controlling for group of age (0–2, 3–5, 6–8, 9–11 and 12–15 years), sex, and study site and the afore-mentioned pre-enrollment factors.

Results

The prevalence of falciparum infection was 25.6% in the eBL cases and 45.7% in community controls (aOR = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.40, 0.47; P < 0.0001). The results were similar for recent falciparum infection (6.9% versus 13.5%, aOR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.50; P < 0.0001) and current falciparum infection (18.7% versus 32.1%, aOR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.43, 0.51; P < 0.0001). These aORs for any, recent and current falciparum infection did not change when we adjusted for pre-enrollment factors (aORs = 0.46, =0.44, and = 0.51, respectively) were significantly lower in stratified analysis for any infection in children < 5 years (aOR = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.75) or ≥ 10 years (aOR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.32, 0.71).

Conclusion

Our study results reduce support for pre-enrollment antimalaria treatment as a sole explanation for the observed lower falciparum prevalence in eBL cases and open a space to consider alternative immunology-based hypotheses.
The cerebral mechanism of acupuncture for chronic insomnia with gastrointestinal disorder: protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Peng Wei , Hong Xiaojuan , Huangfu Yaru , Sun Zhao , Shen Wei , Feng Fen , Gong Liang , Shen Zhifu , Guo Baojun , Zhang Leixiao , Wang Yanan , Zhao Ying , Zhu Tianmin , Hu Youping , Yu Siyi
Published: June 2021

Background

Many patients with chronic insomnia disorder (CID) have gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. First-line insomnia medications do not treat GI problems. Acupuncture has a comprehensive regulative action on both CID and GI disorder and is receiving increasing attention. Recent studies indicate that both CID and GI diseases may cause abnormal brain activity. However, the neurological mechanism underlying the effect of acupuncture on such diseases is still unclear. The aim of this study is to explore the pathological mechanisms of CID with GI discomfort, as well as the main response characteristics of acupuncture treatment from multiple perspectives using multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

A total of 60 participants with CID and GI disorders will be randomly divided into two groups (real acupuncture group and sham acupuncture group; ratio of 1:1). Patients will receive 20 sessions (five sessions per week) of real acupuncture treatment or sham acupuncture treatment. The primary outcome is the aggregate score on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Secondary outcomes are scores on the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, and Self-Rating Depression Scale. Multimodal MRI scans and clinical assessments will be performed both at baseline and post-treatment. Another 30 age-, sex-, and education-matched healthy subjects will be recruited as controls and will receive MRI scans and clinical evaluations.

Discussion

This study aims to provide scientific evidence for the mechanism of acupuncture in treating CID with GI disorder using multimodal MRI imaging data on brain structure, function, and metabolism.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800017092 (URL:http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=27173). Registered on July 11, 2018.