bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonography for Serial Monitoring and Management of Cerebrospinal Fluid Dynamic Disorders After Decompressive Craniectomy
Authors: Zhu Meng , Zhang Jiahui , Li Huanting , Mu Shuang , Liu Wei , Deng Wenshuai , Liu Xin , He Zhaozhong , Gong Anjing , Feng Yugong
Published: July 2022

Objective:

Decompressive craniectomy (DC) is widely used to treat intracranial hypertension following severe head injury. However, impairments of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hydrodynamics such as hydrocephalus and subdural effusion are common complications that occur after DC. Therefore, monitoring of intracranial pressure is a staple of neurocritical care post-DC. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of transcranial duplex sonography (TDS) for serial monitoring and management of CSF disorders after DC.

Methods:

A total of 100 patients who underwent DC between June 2016 and May 2019 were recruited for the study. Transcranial duplex sonography examinations were performed between 1-day and 1-year post-DC. Transcranial duplex sonography was mainly used for monitoring changes in ventricle size and morphology, and also to monitor intraventricular hemorrhage, hydrocephalus, intracranial hygromas, and ventricle changes during CSF release procedures.

Results:

A total of 456 TDS examinations were performed on patients after DC. Of these, 402 were performed in the neuro–intensive care unit. Two patients had intraventricular hemorrhage and underwent TDS-guided external ventricular drainage. Twenty-nine patients were diagnosed with hydrocephalus. The results of TDS were consistent with those of cranial computed tomography. Three cases of ventriculoperitoneal shunt and 1 case of lumbar peritoneal shunt underwent valve pressure reset according to TDS, to obtain satisfactory ventricle size. Transcranial duplex sonography was used to monitor ventricle changes and control drainage volume during CSF release procedures, including 2 external ventricular drainage, 6 external lumbar drainage, and 10 lumbar punctures. Eighteen patients were detected with single or multiple intracranial effusions, including 16 subdural hygromas, 5 longitudinal fissure hygromas, and 6 brain cysts.

Conclusions:

Transcranial duplex sonography can efficiently help monitor changes in ventricle size and morphology and intracranial effusions. Due to its noninvasive nature, suitability for bedside application, real-time, and inexpensiveness, TDS can significantly replace cranial computed tomography and become part of the patient’s daily inspection work after DC.
Living Donor Liver Transplantation With Augmented Venous Outflow and Splenectomy
Authors: Fujiki Masato , Hashimoto Koji , Quintini Cristiano , Aucejo Federico , Kwon Choon H.D. , Matsushima Hajime , Sasaki Kazunari , Campos Luis , Eghtesad Bijan , Diago Teresa , Iuppa Giuseppe , D’amico Giuseppe , Kumar Shiva , Liu Peter , Miller Charles , Pinna Antonio
Published: July 2022

Objective:

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) using small grafts, especially left lobe grafts (H1234-MHV) (LLG), continues to be a challenge due to small-for-size syndrome (SFSS). We herein demonstrate that with surgical modifications, outcomes with small grafts can be improved.

Methods:

Between 2012 and 2020, we performed 130 adult LDLT using 61 (47%) LLG (H1234-MHV) in a single Enterprise. The median graft-to-recipient weight ratio was 0.84%, with graft-to-recipient weight ratio <0.7% accounting for 22%. Splenectomy was performed in 72 (56%) patients for inflow modulation before (n=50) or after (n=22) graft reperfusion. In LLG-LDLT, venous outflow was achieved using all three recipient hepatic veins. In right lobe graft (H5678) (RLG)-LDLT, the augmented graft right hepatic vein was anastomosed to the recipient’s cava with a large cavotomy. Outcome measures include SFSS, early allograft dysfunction (EAD), and survival.

Results:

Graft survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 94%, 90%, and 83%, respectively, with no differences between LLG (H1234-MHV) and RLG (H5678). Splenectomy significantly reduced portal flow without increasing the complication rate. Despite the aggressive use of small grafts, SFSS and EAD developed in only 1 (0.8%) and 18 (13.8%) patients, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression revealed model for end-stage liver disease score and LLG (H1234-MHV) as independent risk factors for EAD and splenectomy as a protective factor (odds ratio: 0.09; P=0.03). For LLG (H1234-MHV)-LDLT, patients who underwent prereperfusion splenectomy tended to have better 1-year graft survival than those receiving postreperfusion splenectomy.

Conclusions:

LLG (H1234-MHV) are feasible in adult LDLT with excellent outcomes comparable to RLG (H5678). Venous outflow augmentation and splenectomy help lower the threshold of using small-for-size grafts without compromising graft survival.
Liver Transplantation as a New Standard of Care in Patients With Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma? Results From an International Benchmark Study
Authors: Breuer Eva , Mueller Matteo , Doyle Majella B. , Yang Liu , Darwish Murad Sarwa , Anwar Imran J. , Merani Shaheed , Limkemann Ashley , Jeddou Heithem , Kim Steven C. , López-López Victor , Nassar Ahmed , Hoogwater Frederik J.H. , Vibert Eric , De Oliveira Michelle L. , Cherqui Daniel , Porte Robert J. , Magliocca Joseph F. , Fischer Lutz , Fondevila Constantino , Zieniewicz Krzysztof , Ramírez Pablo , Foley David P. , Boudjema Karim , Schenk Austin D. , Langnas Alan N. , Knechtle Stuart , Polak Wojciech G. , Taner C. Burcin , Chapman William C. , Rosen Charles B. , Gores Gregory J. , Dutkowski Philipp , Heimbach Julie K. , Clavien Pierre-Alain
Published: July 2022

Objective:

To define benchmark values for liver transplantation (LT) in patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC) enabling unbiased comparisons.

Background:

Transplantation for PHC is used with reluctance in many centers and even contraindicated in several countries. Although benchmark values for LT are available, there is a lack of specific data on LT performed for PHC.

Methods:

PHC patients considered for LT after Mayo-like protocol were analyzed in 17 reference centers in 2 continents over the recent 5-year period (2014–2018). The minimum follow-up was 1 year. Benchmark patients were defined as operated at high-volume centers (≥50 overall LT/year) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, with a tumor diameter <3 cm, negative lymph nodes, and with the absence of relevant comorbidities. Benchmark cutoff values were derived from the 75th to 25th percentiles of the median values of all benchmark centers.

Results:

One hundred thirty-four consecutive patients underwent LT after completion of the neoadjuvant treatment. Of those, 89.6% qualified as benchmark cases. Benchmark cutoffs were 90-day mortality ≤5.2%; comprehensive complication index at 1 year of ≤33.7; grade ≥3 complication rates ≤66.7%. These values were better than benchmark values for other indications of LT. Five-year disease-free survival was largely superior compared with a matched group of nodal negative patients undergoing curative liver resection (n=106) (62% vs 32%, P<0.001).

Conclusion:

This multicenter benchmark study demonstrates that LT offers excellent outcomes with superior oncological results in early stage PHC patients, even in candidates for surgery. This provocative observation should lead to a change in available therapeutic algorithms for PHC.
Phytochemical composition and bio-functional properties of
Apis mellifera
propolis from Kenya
Authors: Kegode Timothy M. , Bargul Joel L. , Mokaya Hosea O. , Lattorff H. Michael G.
Published: July 2022

There is an increased demand for natural products like propolis, yet little information is available about the chemical composition of African propolis and its bio-functional properties. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to quantify the phytochemicals and determine the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of
Apis mellifera
propolis (
n
= 59) sourced from various regions in Kenya. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the sampling region had a remarkable impact on the propolis's composition and bio-functional properties. Generally, the propolis contained high amounts of phytochemicals, particularly alkaloids (5.76 g CE/100 g) and phenols (2.24 g GAE/100 g). Furthermore, analysis of propolis by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) revealed various compounds with varying bio-functional activities. These compounds included triterpenoids alpha- and beta-amyrin, oleanen-3-yl-acetate, urs-12-en-24-oic acid, lanosta-8,24-dien-3-one, and hydrocarbons tricosane and nondecane, which have been reported to have either antimicrobial or antioxidant activities. The propolis samples collected from hotter climatic conditions contained a higher composition of phytochemicals, and additionally, they displayed higher antioxidant and antimicrobial activities than those obtained from cooler climatic conditions. Key findings of this study demonstrate the occurrence of relatively high phytochemical content in Kenya's propolis, which has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties; hence this potential could be harnessed for disease control.
Nesting success of red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) in marshes in an anthropogenic landscape
Authors: Robinson Scott K. , McChesney Holly M.
Published: July 2022

Recent analyses show significant population declines in many abundant avian species, especially marsh-nesting species including the red-winged blackbird (RWBL). Hypothesized causes include reduced nesting success resulting from changing land-use patterns and exposure to contaminants. Our goal was to test the hypothesis that landscape and nest characteristics as well as exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) correlate with nesting success. From 2008 to 2014, we measured clutch size, egg and nestling mass, hatching and fledging success and daily survival of 1293 RWBL nests from 32 marshes in the Hudson River valley of New York. Using generalized linear effect and survival models, we found that: (i) Julian date was negatively related to hatching success and clutch size but positively related to egg mass; (ii) nest height was negatively related to hatching success; (iii) nestling mass decreased with increased nest density and distance to edges; (iv) fledging success was significantly lower in nests closer to the ground that were far from water; and (v) clutch size and daily survival were higher in nests farther from water. Results showed that nesting success was correlated with variables associated with flooding, population density and predation and provided no support for the predicted negative effects of PCB exposure.
Exceptional diversity and selection pressure on coronavirus host receptors in bats compared to other mammals
Authors: Frank Hannah K. , Enard David , Boyd Scott D.
Published: July 2022

Pandemics originating from non-human animals highlight the need to understand how natural hosts have evolved in response to emerging human pathogens and which groups may be susceptible to infection and/or potential reservoirs to mitigate public health and conservation concerns. Multiple zoonotic coronaviruses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV), SARS-CoV-2 and Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (MERS-CoV), are hypothesized to have evolved in bats. We investigate angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the host protein bound by SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, and dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 (DPP4 or CD26), the host protein bound by MERS-CoV, in the largest bat datasets to date. Both the ACE2 and DPP4 genes are under strong selection pressure in bats, more so than in other mammals, and in residues that contact viruses. Additionally, mammalian groups vary in their similarity to humans in residues that contact SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV, and increased similarity to humans in binding residues is broadly predictive of susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2. This work augments our understanding of the relationship between coronaviruses and mammals, particularly bats, provides taxonomically diverse data for studies of how host proteins are bound by coronaviruses and can inform surveillance, conservation and public health efforts.
Quantifying the unexpected: A scientific approach to Black Swans
Authors: De Marzo Giordano , Gabrielli Andrea , Zaccaria Andrea , Pietronero Luciano
Published: July 2022

Many natural and socioeconomic systems are characterized by power-law distributions that make the occurrence of extreme events not negligible. Such events are sometimes referred to as Black Swans, but a quantitative definition of a Black Swan is still lacking. Here, by leveraging on the properties of Zipf-Mandelbrot law, we investigate the relations between such extreme events and the dynamics of the upper cutoff of the inherent distribution. This approach permits a quantification of extreme events and allows to classify them as White, Gray, or Black Swans. Our criterion is in accordance with some previous findings but also allows us to spot new examples of Black Swans, such as Lionel Messi and the Turkish Airlines Flight 981 disaster. The systematic and quantitative methodology we developed allows a scientific and immediate categorization of rare events, also providing insight into the generative mechanism behind Black Swans.

Published by the American Physical Society
2022
Native SAD phasing at room temperature
Authors: Greisman Jack B. , Dalton Kevin M. , Sheehan Candice J. , Klureza Margaret A. , Kurinov Igor , Hekstra Doeke R.
Published: July 2022

Single-wavelength anomalous diffraction (SAD) is a routine method for overcoming the phase problem when solving macromolecular structures. This technique requires the accurate measurement of intensities to determine differences between Bijvoet pairs. Although SAD experiments are commonly conducted at cryogenic temperatures to mitigate the effects of radiation damage, such temperatures can alter the conformational ensemble of the protein and may impede the merging of data from multiple crystals due to non-uniform freezing. Here, a strategy is presented to obtain high-quality data from room-temperature, single-crystal experiments. To illustrate the strengths of this approach, native SAD phasing at 6.55 keV was used to solve four structures of three model systems at 295 K. The resulting data sets allow automatic phasing and model building, and reveal alternate conformations that reflect the structure of proteins at room temperature.
Psychological empowerment and employee engagement: role of job satisfaction and religiosity in Nigeria
Authors: Nwachukwu Chijioke , Vu Hieu Minh , Chládková Helena , Agboga Richard Selase
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the mediating role of job satisfaction in the relationship between psychological empowerment and employee engagement. There is also an investigation of the moderating effect of religiosity on psychological empowerment and job satisfaction as well as job satisfaction and employee engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from 265 employees working in the service industry in Nigeria. The hypotheses were tested and analysed using structural equation modelling and bootstrapping procedure.

Findings

The results show that the direct relationship between psychological empowerment and employee engagement was partially mediated by job satisfaction. Intrinsic religiosity (IR) was found to have a moderating effect on job satisfaction and employee engagement. IR and extrinsic religiosity (ER) does not moderate the impact of psychological empowerment on job satisfaction and employee engagement. ER was found to have a negative insignificant moderating effect on job satisfaction and employee engagement.

Research limitations/implications

A cross-sectional study reveals the relationship between variables at one point in a time. As such this study may not precisely predict the dominant pattern of the association over time. Future research can use longitudinal study to establish a dominant pattern of relationships.

Practical implications

This study informs human resource practitioners and scholars by demonstrating that religiosity and job satisfaction are important factors that should be considered in managing and keeping employees engaged.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first atte`mpts to enrich the literature in the fields of psychological empowerment and employee engagement by highlighting organisational mechanisms that amplify the relationship.
Investigating the criminal thinking styles of mentally disordered offenders within the UK
Authors: Spruin Elizabeth , Dunleavy Tara , Mitchell Chloe , Siesmaa Belinda
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the utility and reliability of the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (PICTS) to investigate the criminal cognitions of mentally disordered offenders (MDOs) from the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The reliability and validity of the PICTS scales were investigated within an MDO sample from the UK (N = 45) and compared to PICTS data from the USA and general offenders in the UK.

Findings

The findings showed that the PICTS functioned in a similar way when used in MDO and non-MDO populations, indicating that from a psychometric perspective, the PICTS scales produce consistent results across both populations. Evidence is further provided to indicate that MDOs from the UK endorse criminal cognitions at a similar level to those in the USA and at a significantly higher level than general UK offenders.

Practical implications

The implications and insight that these findings provide into the criminal cognitions of MDOs are discussed, with specific focus on the significant difference between general offenders and offenders with serious mental illness.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to use the PICTS with MDOs in the UK, comparing the criminal thinking styles of MDOs and non-MDOs.
Recovery college intervention for people living with BPD
Authors: Lane Colette
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Literature regarding recovery has focussed on diagnoses such as schizophrenia, with few papers focussing on borderline personality disorder (BPD). This is a significant area in need of change because a lack of research concentrating on recovery from BPD could be seen to perpetuate the view that recovery from this condition may not be possible. Recovery Colleges (RCs) in the UK began in 2009and aim to offer co-produced and co-facilitated psychoeducational courses to encourage recovery and enable people to develop skills and knowledge so they become experts in the self-management of their difficulties. Given the gaps within the recovery literature, it is unclear how Recovery Colleges can support recovery for people diagnosed with BPD. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of a Recovery College course for people diagnosed with BPD.

Design/methodology/approach

Using participatory methods, this paper aims to explore the question of what personal recovery looks like for people with BPD and how this may prove useful in developing future practice in RCs. Qualitative feedback data was collected from 51 managing intense emotions courses delivered to 309 students using a patient reported experience measure between Autumn 2015 and Autumn 2021.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that people with BPD can experience recovery, whilst still experiencing symptoms, as long as they receive appropriate co-produced, recovery-orientated support and services.

Practical implications

Further research in this area could help shape future clinical practice by embedding a recovery-focussed programme into community services.

Originality/value

Literature regarding recovery has focussed on diagnoses such as schizophrenia withfew papers focussing on BPD. This is an area in need of change because a lack of research on recovery from BPD could be seen to perpetuate the view that recovery from this condition may not be possible. RCs offer co-produced and co-facilitated psychoeducational courses around recovery, enabling people to develop skills and knowledge to become experts in the self-management of their difficulties. Given the gaps within the recovery literature it is unclear how RCs can support recovery for this group of service users.
Amelanotic/hypopigmented melanoma in a sibship with oculocutaneous albinism
Authors: Maas Ellie J. , Wallingford Courtney K. , McGuire Jessica J. , Rutjes Chantal , Smit Darren J. , Betz‐Stablein Brigid , Sturm Richard A. , Soyer H. Peter , McInerney‐Leo Aideen M.
Published: July 2022

Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a rare condition characterized by hypopigmentation. A female proband and her sister, both with primary amelanotic/hypopigmented melanoma, underwent three‐dimensional total‐body photography and dermoscopy. Both sisters had exome sequencing along with their brother, who had OCA but no history of melanoma. Imaging analysis was consistent with OCA in terms of individual typology angle scores, degree of sun damage, and high naevus counts. Exome data filtered for variants in known OCA and melanoma/naevi susceptibility genes (n = 98) found all siblings were compound heterozygous for TYR mutations (Arg402Ter and Val275Phe), previously reported as causative OCA variants. A rare missense variant in PARP1 (p.Pro377Ser) was solely present in the melanoma‐unaffected brother, which is noteworthy as this was previously reported as potentially protective in a familial melanoma pedigree positive for CDKN2A mutations. Evaluation and confirmation of functional impact in larger cohorts could personalize melanoma screening in OCA.
Survival of the fattest: How body fat and migration influence survival in highly seasonal environments
Authors: Denryter Kristin , Conner Mary M. , Stephenson Thomas R. , German David W. , Monteith Kevin L.
Published: July 2022

Energy stores and migration are important adaptations for animals in seasonal environments, but their roles may vary relative to an animal's endogenous and exogenous environment. In partially migratory populations, migrants and residents experience different seasonal environments; thus, the influence of energy stores on survival may differ relative to migratory tactic, with potential consequences to survival and fitness.

Using data from Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis sierrae; hereafter, Sierra bighorn), we tested the hypothesis that body fat (energy stores) buffers animals against their environment, but that buffering capacity differs across environments experienced by high‐elevation residents (using a single range year‐round), traditional migrants (making 1 round‐trip movement between high‐ and low‐elevation ranges during winter) and vacillating migrants (making ≥2 round trips between high‐ and low‐elevation ranges during winter). We predicted that: for animals with high levels of body fat, survival would be high regardless of migratory tactic; residents would require larger stores of body fat to survive than migrants; energy stores would be least influential to survival for vacillating migrants.

High levels of body fat in autumn (≥14% for females and ≥19% for males) largely buffered animals against harsh environments (survival >0.90) regardless of migratory tactic. At lower levels of body fat, traditional migrants had higher survival than residents. Vacillating migrants exhibited nearly 100% survival with no detectable effect of body fat on survival.

Collectively, these results support the hypothesis that body fat buffers animals against harsh environments but that the buffering capacity differed relative to the environment and highly flexible behaviours (i.e. vacillating migration) can allow animals to decouple survival from body fat.

Our work reveals that synergies between physiological and behavioural adaptations of animals in highly seasonal environments carry potential fitness consequences for individuals and demographic consequences for populations. Interactions among these adaptations are key to understanding nutritional prerequisites for persistence in variable environments.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Flower strips and remnant semi‐natural vegetation have different impacts on pollination and productivity of sunflower crops
Authors: Mota Lucie , Hevia Violeta , Rad Carlos , Alves Joana , Silva António , González José A. , Ortega‐Marcos Jorge , Aguado Oscar , Alcorlo Paloma , Azcárate Francisco M. , Chapinal Libertad , López César A. , Loureiro João , Marks Evan A. N. , Siopa Catarina , Sousa José Paulo , Castro Sílvia
Published: July 2022

Intensification of agricultural landscapes to fulfil increased global food demands has dramatically impacted biodiversity and ecosystem services. Several pollinator groups, which are vital for the maintenance of pollinator‐dependent crops, have been severely affected by this intensification process. Management tools, such as the implementation of agri‐environmental schemes, have been widely proposed to improve pollinator's communities and pollination services, although the effectiveness of wildflower strips in comparison to existing natural or semi‐natural habitats and the impact on yield has not been fully demonstrated.

Here, we aimed to assess the effect of flower strips implementation near sunflower fields in two intensive agricultural regions and to quantify their impact on visitation rates and sunflower productivity. Data were obtained in two regions in Spain (Burgos and Cuenca) in sunflower fields with associated semi‐natural vegetation (SNVs), with implemented wildflower strips (WFSs) and without vegetation structures (NonVs). Visitation rates were monitored over 2 years by direct observations, and both sunflower seed production and weight were assessed in 52 fields per year.

Our results revealed regional and inter‐annual variation in visitation rates, likely driven by structural differences in the landscapes studied. In Cuenca, characterized by more heterogeneous and floral resources‐richer landscapes, the effects of WFSs were significant in the second year of implementation, with higher visitation rates and productivity values in fields with implemented wildflower strips compared to those without. In contrast, in Burgos, no consistent effects among field treatments between years were observed.

Synthesis and applications. The implementation of flower strips or maintenance of remnant semi‐natural habitats adjacent to sunflower fields showed context‐dependent effects on pollinator visitation rates and crop yield. In highly simplified agroecosystems, these interventions may be insufficient or may need longer times to produce significant effects. Yet, in regions where natural and semi‐natural patches were already present, the implementation of flower strips was a successful strategy to promote pollinators and sunflower productivity.
The effects of natural enemies on herb diversity in a temperate forest depend on species traits and neighbouring tree composition
Authors: Jia Shihong , Wang Xugao , Hao Zhanqing , Bagchi Robert
Published: July 2022

There is mounting evidence that top‐down control by natural enemies helps maintain plant diversity in natural ecosystems. Previous work has concentrated on either forest trees or grassland herbs. Our knowledge of how natural enemies affect herb diversity in forests is limited.

We used fungicides and insecticide to experimentally examine the effects of fungi and insects on herb abundance and diversity at the community‐wide scale and within groups of species with certain traits. We also assessed how the effects of fungi and insects on herb assemblages were modified by neighbouring tree diversity and composition in an old‐growth temperate forest.

We found that fungicides increased overall herb abundance by 7% while decreasing herb diversity by 5%. This effect of fungicides on both herb abundance and diversity weakened with the increase of neighbouring tree diversity. Insecticide did not affect either herb abundance or diversity noticeably, except in areas dominated by deciduous trees where insecticide application reduced herb diversity.

Fungicides and insecticide decreased the diversity of relatively less defended species (i.e. thin‐leaved and non‐clonal) but had no effect on the diversity of herbs with stronger defensive traits (i.e. thick‐leaved and clonal). Fungicides increased the abundance of non‐mycorrhizal (NM) species but not arbuscular‐mycorrhizal (AM) species, although the effect of fungicides on herb diversity was unrelated to species' mycorrhizal association. Insecticide had stronger effects on the abundance and diversity of NM species than AM species.

Synthesis. We conclude that fungi and insect herbivores are critical to regulating herb abundance and diversity in this temperate forest, with their effects dependent on species' traits and neighbouring tree diversity and composition. Our results highlight the importance of top‐down control of understory herb communities by natural enemies in temperate forests, advancing our understanding of the processes shaping plant diversity in natural ecosystems.
Forensic cardiac device analysis at the Los Angeles County Department of the Coroner: A 20‐year experience
Authors: Bernardes‐Souza Breno , Tiecher Ricardo D. , Do Duc H. , Saint‐Martin Pauline , Sathyavagiswaran Lakshmanan , Ukpo Odey C. , Rogers Christopher B. , Boyle Noel G.
Published: July 2022

Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) store information continuously; however, the log of these devices is rarely analyzed in forensic practice. We retrospectively reviewed all cases referred for CIED interrogation by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner‐Coroner between 2001 and 2020. According to the Department's practice, CIED interrogation may be requested for decedents in which details or cause of death are not clear from autopsy and clinical history. The CIED analysis was considered informative for the coroner's investigation either if it detected an arrhythmia or malfunction likely related to decedent's terminal event or if it was essential to determine time of death or identity of decedent. A total of 57 CIEDs were evaluated during the 20‐year period. In almost half of cases (26/57: 45.6%), device analysis was informative for coroner's investigation. Arrhythmias likely related to terminal event were commonly detected (21/57: 36.8%). Device malfunction was identified as the likely cause of death in almost 10% of decedents (5/57: 8.8%), including three cases of battery depletion (3/57: 5.3%), one case of misclassification of ventricular tachycardia as supraventricular tachycardia with failure to deliver therapy (1/57: 1.7%), and one case of lead failure due to a broken pacing wire (1/57: 1.7%). Not infrequently, CIED interrogation was essential for determination of time of death (9/57: 15.8%), and there was one case (1/57: 1.7%) in which interrogation was essential for identifying the decedent. Our study shows that postmortem CIED interrogation can provide unique information regarding mechanism and time of death, and decedent's identity.
Statistics in a Civil War
Authors: Gebregziabher Mulugeta , Cochran James J.
Published: July 2022

Ukraine is not the only country whose health-care system has been ravaged by conflict. Here, Mulugeta Gebregziabher and James J. Cochran describe the huge challenges of gathering reliable data on the catastrophic effect of civil war in Tigray, Ethiopia
My Prostate Predictions
Authors: Rothman James
Published: July 2022

When James Rothman was prescribed the drug bicalutamide to manage his cancer, he decided to put his decades of statistical experience to good use. But what would his doctor think?
Algeria and China: Shifts in political and military relations
Authors: Zoubir Yahia H.
Published: July 2022

This article studies China's political and military relations with Algeria, a North African middle power. It tries to do through Role Theory, which has been enriched by incorporating the notion of hedging. The National Role Conception provides a good framework, for it shows that the overlapping roles of Algeria and China have helped consolidate their ties. Both China and Algeria have expectations from one another; the article demonstrates that though each has fulfilled the other's expectations, China has not fully done so regarding the conflict in Western Sahara without however resulting in distrust or tensions between the two. On the contrary, in view of the reconfiguration taking place in the international system, as well as in the immediate environment, the article advances the proposition that Algeria, historically a staunch nonaligned nation, has recently hedged China to defend against mounting threats. Algeria hedges China as ‘geopolitical insurance policy’. Furthermore, Algeria participated at the 14th BRICS Summit in June 2022; its eventual membership will consolidate Sino‐Algerian relations and will enable both countries to continue playing their self‐attributed roles.
Comparison of different neoadjuvant treatments for resectable locoregional esophageal cancer: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Bao Yongxing , Ma Zeliang , Yuan Meng , Wang Yang , Men Yu , Hui Zhouguang
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The best pattern of neoadjuvant therapy for resectable locoregional esophageal cancer has not been determined. Our study evaluated the efficacy and postoperative events of different treatments using the Bayesian network meta‐analysis.

Methods

We systematically tracked randomized clinical trials from the Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases. The following treatments were included: neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by surgery (NCRT + S), neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery (NCT + S), neoadjuvant radiotherapy followed by surgery (NRT + S), and surgery alone (S). The Revised Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tools were used to assess the quality of included trials. Overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival or disease‐free survival (PFS/DFS) were assessed through hazard ratios (HR). Locoregional recurrence, distant metastasis, postoperative mortality, and postoperative morbidity were assessed through odds ratios (OR). These outcomes were compared between different treatments through Bayesian network meta‐analysis.

Results

Twenty trials with 4384 patients were included. Compared with S, only NCRT + S could significantly improve OS for patients with esophageal cancer (HR = 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68–0.88). NCRT + S and NCT + S significantly improved PFS/DFS compared with S (NCRT + S vs. S, HR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.63–0.81; NCT + S vs. S, HR = 0.81, 95% CI 0.69–0.97). NCRT + S significantly reduced both locoregional recurrence (OR = 0.67, 95% CI 0.51–0.88) and distant metastasis (OR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.45–0.90) compared with S. There were no differences in postoperative morbidity between the four treatments. However, NCRT + S also increased postoperative mortality compared with S (OR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.09–2.82) and NCT + S (OR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.11–3.51).

Conclusion

NCRT + S is the most efficient neoadjuvant treatment for resectable locoregional esophageal cancer. However, NCRT + S increases the risk of postoperative mortality but not morbidity.
Morphological importance of coronary ostia in equine
Authors: Pereira Vitor P. , Seyfert Carlos E. , Santos João M. L. , de Morais‐Pinto Luciano
Published: July 2022

The position of the coronary ostia was investigated in 70 segments of the aorta from young adult crossbred horses. After fixation with a 4% buffered aqueous formaldehyde solution and cautious dissection of the aortic bulb, the morphometric relationships between the coronary ostium and the aortic valvar elements were digitally analysed with the support of Image‐Pro Plus® software. In horses, the left coronary ostium was near to the right valvular commissure in all cases (100%) analysed in this study. The left coronary ostium was at the level of the intercommissural line in 57.1% and below it in 42.9%. The right coronary ostium was near to the left valvular commissure in 58.6% (2.14 ± 0.32 cm) and close to the right valvular commissure in 41.4% (2.27 ± 0.40 cm). Concerning the intercommissural line, the right coronary ostia was at its level in 24.3% and below it in 75.7%. Accessory coronary ostia were observed in 8.6% of the specimens. In view of the results, it was possible to assume that the positions of the coronary ostia in equines tend towards a standard morphological disposition. Thus, perfusion of the left coronary artery occurs partly more frequently in ventricular systole and complete perfusion occurs less frequently in ventricular diastole. For the right coronary artery, perfusion is mostly complete in diastole and partially in ventricular systole.
Dramatic effects but fast adaptation: Changes in life satisfaction and different facets of affective well‐being around the death of a partner and death of a child
Authors: Asselmann Eva , Specht Jule
Published: July 2022

Although everyone would agree that bereavement is extremely stressful, surprisingly little is known about changes in different facets of affective well‐being in the years surrounding the death of a loved one. On the basis of the Socio‐Economic Panel Study, we examined changes in cognitive well‐being (life satisfaction) and different facets of affective well‐being (happiness, sadness, anxiety, and anger) in the years around the death of a partner (N = 989) and child (N = 276). Data on the death of a partner and child as well as cognitive and affective well‐being were assessed yearly since 2007. Multilevel analyses revealed that both events were associated with very large well‐being impairments (>1 SD) that were most pronounced for sadness, happiness, and life satisfaction in the first year of bereavement. Afterwards, bereaved individuals managed to recover impressively well: Levels of life satisfaction, happiness, and sadness were on average similar 5 years after losing a partner or child compared with 5 years before the respective loss. Our findings suggest (a) that many individuals tend to be capable to even cope with highly stressful loss experiences and (b) that Set‐Point Theory not only applies to life satisfaction but also different facets of affective well‐being around the death of a loved one.
Commentary: Against the widespread use of other types of PD diagnosis – a commentary on the May 2022 debate (should CAMH professionals be diagnosing personality disorder in adolescence?)
Authors: Garralda M. Elena
Published: July 2022

Recent debate papers in Child and Adolescent Mental Health (Debate CAMH, May 2022) advocate a more widespread and appropriate use by CAMH clinicians of borderline personality disorder diagnoses. This paper makes the case against the widespread use of other types of PD diagnosis in children and young people. Nevertheless, it would be of interest to establish to what extent adult PDs have their roots in early neurodevelopmental anomalies, and ascertainment of personality traits can help clarify children's response to environmental or traumatic stresses in those presenting with problems such as at the interface between physical and mental health.
A drug‐disease model for predicting survival in an Ebola outbreak
Authors: Toroghi Masood Khaksar , Al‐Huniti Nidal , Davis John D. , DiCioccio A. Thomas , Rippley Ronda , Baum Alina , Kyratsous Christos A. , Sivapalasingam Sumathi , Kantrowitz Joel , Kamal Mohamed A.
Published: July 2022

REGN‐EB3 (Inmazeb) is a cocktail of three human monoclonal antibodies approved for treatment of Ebola infection. This paper describes development of a mathematical model linking REGN‐EB3’s inhibition of Ebola virus to survival in a non‐human primate (NHP) model, and translational scaling to predict survival in humans. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data from single‐ and multiple‐dose REGN‐EB3 studies in infected rhesus macaques were incorporated. Using discrete indirect response models, the antiviral mechanism of action was used as a forcing function to drive the reversal of key Ebola disease hallmarks over time, for example, liver and kidney damage (elevated alanine [ALT] and aspartate aminotransferases [AST], blood urea nitrogen [BUN], and creatinine), and hemorrhage (decreased platelet count). A composite disease characteristic function was introduced to describe disease severity and integrated with the ordinary differential equations estimating the time course of clinical biomarkers. Model simulation results appropriately represented the concentration‐dependence of the magnitude and time course of Ebola infection (viral and pathophysiological), including time course of viral load, ALT and AST elevations, platelet count, creatinine, and BUN. The model estimated the observed survival rate in rhesus macaques and the dose of REGN‐EB3 required for saturation of the pharmacodynamic effects of viral inhibition, reversal of Ebola pathophysiology, and survival. The model also predicted survival in clinical trials with appropriate scaling to humans. This mathematical investigation demonstrates that drug‐disease modeling can be an important translational tool to integrate preclinical data from an NHP model recapitulating disease progression to guide future translation of preclinical data to clinical study design.
Curbing the usage of conflict minerals: A supply network perspective
Authors: Zhang Han , Aydin Goker , Heese Hans Sebastian
Published: July 2022

An important source of funds for the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the revenue from mineral mining. NGOs and legislators made efforts to require manufacturers that use “conflict minerals” to learn and disclose their sources. In the mineral supply chain, the critical link between mines and manufacturers is smelters. We study equilibrium sourcing decisions in the supply network consisting of manufacturers and smelters. We show the equilibrium depends on the total demand of “compliance‐prone” manufacturers, which would choose to be compliant if the prices of certified and noncertified metals were equal. We identify the conditions for the existence of several types of equilibrium: an all‐certified equilibrium where all smelters become certified; an equilibrium where both metal types coexist with no shortage of certified metal; and an equilibrium where both metal types coexist with a shortage of certified metal. In the event that an all‐certified equilibrium is out of reach, we identify how the usage of conflict minerals changes as an NGO or a legislative body targets additional manufacturers. Our model does not incorporate deliberate choices by the mines to become verified conflict‐free, that may enhance the effect of the penalties in the long run. However, in the short‐to‐intermediate run, for a given pool of mines that are verified, an implication of our results is that imposing penalties on manufacturers goes only so far: If penalties induce sufficiently many manufacturers to become compliance‐prone, certified metal may become so expensive that some compliance‐prone manufacturers will not comply.
Preclinical pharmacology of RA15127343: In vitro and in vivo activity of a novel ultralong‐acting basal insulin
Authors: Werner Ulrich , Bielohuby Maximilian , Korn Marcus , Riedel Jens , Will Martin , Méndez María
Published: July 2022

Aim

To report the in vitro and in vivo preclinical pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) properties of RA15127343, a novel ultralong‐acting insulin analogue targeting once‐weekly administration, in female Göttingen minipigs.

Methods

In vitro binding and activation of human insulin receptor isoforms (IR‐A/IR‐B), glucose uptake in rat myocytes, as well as mitogenic activity of RA15127343 were evaluated. In vivo, the PK and PD activities of RA15127343 were assessed in female, normoglycaemic Göttingen minipigs. The half‐life (t1/2) and time to maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) of subcutaneously (SC) administered RA15127343 (10/30/45/60 nmol/kg) were estimated. In vivo blood glucose and endogenous plasma C‐peptide concentrations after single SC administration (10/30/45/60 nmol/kg) or repeated dosing (15 nmol/kg) were analysed.

Results

In comparison to human insulin, RA15127343 showed lower in vitro binding affinity (19.9/6.31 μM vs. 1.10/1.14 nM) and activation (2.054 μM/669.6 nM vs. 26.04/18.24 nM) of IR‐A/IR‐B, lower potency to activate glucose uptake (855.2 vs. 3.37 nM) and lower mitogenic activity (17.92 μM vs. 10.78 nM; proliferation in MCF7 cells). In vivo, the mean t1/2 and Tmax of RA15127343 after SC administration ranged from 48 to 59 and 30 to 39 hours, respectively. Blood glucose and plasma C‐peptide concentrations were significantly lower with RA15127343 (single/repeated doses) versus vehicle.

Conclusions

RA15127343 showed an ultra‐long t1/2 with a slow onset of action. The preclinical pharmacological outcomes suggest RA15127343 could be a potential ultralong‐acting insulin analogue with low risk of hypoglycaemia in humans.
Non‐native stinging ant interactions with native anurans
Authors: Warren Robert J. , Solomon Corinna
Published: July 2022

Native predators may ignore or avoid non‐native prey because they do not recognize the novel organisms as food, or the invasive prey may bring antipredatory defences against which the native predators have not co‐evolved a sufficient attack. Non‐native ants successfully invade novel habitats worldwide and, in eastern North America, several invasive ant species bring venomous stings in quantities that far exceed that of native ant species. Ants make up a considerable portion of anuran diets, and we investigated how several native anurans reacted to the invasion of the non‐native European fire ant (Myrmica rubra). Myrmica rubra has a venomous sting, and it occurs in aggressive swarms that can deliver multiple stings. Despite these defences, based on field observations, we expected that leopard frogs (Lithobates pipiens) might consume the abundant ants. We also predicted that habitat niche differences from the moisture‐dependent ants would limit consumption by the more terrestrial American toads (Anaxyrus americanus) and more aquatic green frogs (Lithobates clamitans). Our results suggested that none of the anuran species make use of the M. rubra swarms. The anurans, particularly A. americanus, consumed ample native ants in the field, but not M. rubra ants. In the laboratory, A. americanus ate several M. rubra ants, and L. pipiens a few, but experienced anuran individuals collected from M. rubra‐invaded habitat were less likely to eat the ants in laboratory. Hence, at best, M. rubra invasion appears to supplant rather than supplement anuran food resources.