bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rules and validation processes for interoperable BIM data exchange
Authors: Lee Yong-Cheol , Eastman Charles M , Solihin Wawan
Published: August 2020

Diverse industries have recognized the significance of a neutral data standard for seamless building information modeling (BIM) data exchanges and adopted commonly agreed schemes such as the industry foundation classes (IFC) schema for enhancing BIM data interoperability. To selectively employ domain-specific data exchange requirements, the AEC-FM (the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Facility Management) industries have developed their own schema with a subset of the IFC schema, named a model view definition (MVD). However, because of latent human errors, inadequate MVD definitions, and error-prone data mapping problems, the adoption of IFC for exchanging and sharing BIM data is frequently limited with severe data integrity issues. This challenging situation requires the detailed examination of the limitations of the heterogeneous IFC translation processes of the current BIM authoring and application tools. To accomplish this objective, the authors thoroughly investigated the two MVDs, the Coordination View Version 2.0 and the Construction Operations Building Information Exchange, broadly used as an international standard for developing the IFC translation processes, and then identified their intrinsic requirements/rules and developed rule-based data validation processes. These new intrinsic knowledge of the two MVD specifications will be fundamental foundations to create coherent BIM data exchange systems that are currently scattered and dispersed in heterogeneous IFC translation processes and structures. Newly revealed rules pertaining to these two MVDs have been executed with IfcDoc, which is the IFC documentation tool. This BIM data validation process is expected to not only accurately evaluate the translation processes between BIM native data and IFC ones but also help industry professionals ensure the integrity and the accuracy of their BIM data according to the BIM data exchange standards using the two MVDs. In addition, the outcomes of this research study are expected to bolster the interoperable BIM adoption and offer the values of greater consistency of BIM data exchange.
Stereotactic body radiation therapy using CyberKnife for T1N0M0 lung cancer patients with severe pulmonary dysfunction
Authors: Abe Takanori , Ryuno Yasuhiro , Saito Satoshi , Aoshika Tomomi , Igari Mitsunobu , Hirai Ryuta , Kumazaki Yu , Kaira Kyoichi , Kagamu Hiroshi , Ishida Hironori , Noda Shin-ei , Kato Shingo
Published: August 2020

We retrospectively investigated the efficacy and safety of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for T1N0M0 lung cancer using CyberKnife (CK) among 13 patients with severe pulmonary dysfunction which was defined as forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1.0) of <1 L. The prescribed dose was 54 Gy in 3 fractions but adjusted for some patients if their tumors were in close proximity to the organs at risk (54 Gy/3 fractions: n = 11; 50 Gy/5 fractions: n = 1; 60 Gy/8 fractions: n = 1). During follow up (median follow-up: 27 months), we evaluated local control, overall survival and toxicity, using diagnostic imaging and laboratory tests. The patients’ median FEV1.0 was 0.84 L. Of the 13 patients, 3 were diagnosed as having lung cancer histologically and 10 diagnosed clinically. Their 2-year rates for overall survival and local control were 89 and 100%, respectively. So far, we have seen no adverse effects of grade 2 or higher. We concluded that CK-SBRT is effective and well tolerated for T1N0M0 lung cancer, even in patients with severe pulmonary dysfunction, but should be further evaluated with a larger cohort and longer follow-up periods.
Familial adenomatous polyposis: a case study
Authors: Yorke Joseph , Yamoah Francis Akwaw , Awoonor-Williams Ronald , Konney Thomas Okpoti , Acheampong Emmanuel , Adjei Ernest , Ababio Kwabena Acheamfour , Aning Daniel Gyawu , Afful-Yorke Dennis , Aidoo Freda Manu , Assim Claudia Gyamfua , Gyamfi Frank Enoch , Assim Raphael Owusu Sekyere , Konadu Saabea Owusu , Kuwornu David Elikplim , Acheampong Emmanuella Nsenbah
Published: August 2020

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an inherited syndrome characterized by several adenomatous polyps of the gastrointestinal (GI) mucosa. If treatment is not provided, an average individual with classic FAP will develop colorectal carcinoma around the age of 40 years. The incidence rate of FAP in developing countries like Ghana is unknown compared to advanced countries. We present the first FAP case of a 22-year-old Ghanaian female who presented with massive lower GI bleeding and underwent surgical management after a thorough investigation. The initial assumption that colonic polyps are scarce in native Africans may be more than what is perceived. This highlights the need for the availability of endoscopic services in Ghana.
Could bio-detection dogs be used to limit the spread of COVID-19 by travellers?
Authors: Jones Robert T , Guest Claire , Lindsay Steve W , Kleinschmidt Immo , Bradley John , Dewhirst Sarah , Last Anna , Logan James G
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 epidemic has had an unprecedented impact on the tourism sector. Trained disease detection dogs could be used for non-invasive screening at border entry points to reduce the likelihood of re-introduction of SARS-CoV-2 and limit the need for the self-isolation of all passengers.
Travel-related hepatitis E: a two-decade GeoSentinel analysis
Authors: Nicolini Laura Ambra P , Stoney Rhett J , Della Vecchia Andrea , Grobusch Martin , Gautret Philippe , Angelo Kristina M , van Genderen Perry J J , Bottieau Emmanuel , Leder Karin , Asgeirsson Hilmir , Leung Daniel T , Connor Bradley , Pandey Prativa , Toscanini Federica , Gobbi Federico , Castelli Francesco , Bassetti Matteo , Hamer Davidson H
Published: August 2020

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is widely distributed worldwide and is endemic in developing countries. Travel-related HEV infection has been reported at national levels, but global data are missing. Moreover, the global availability of HEV diagnostic testing has not been explored so far. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiology of HEV infections in returning travellers and availability of HEV diagnostic testing in the GeoSentinel surveillance network.

Methods

This was a multicentre retrospective cross-sectional study. All confirmed and probable HEV travel-related infections reported in the GeoSentinel Network between 1999 and 2018 were evaluated. GeoSentinel sites were asked to complete a survey in 2018 to assess the availability and accessibility of HEV diagnostic procedures (i.e. serology and molecular tests) throughout the study period.

Results

Overall, 165 travel-related HEV infections were reported, mainly since 2010 (60%) and in tourists (50%). Travellers were exposed to hepatitis E in 27 countries; most travellers (62%) were exposed to HEV in South Asia. One patient was pregnant at the time of HEV infection and 14 had a concomitant gastrointestinal infection. No deaths were reported. In the 51% of patients with information available, there was no pre-travel consultation. Among 44 GeoSentinel sites that responded to the survey, 73% have access to HEV serology at a local level, while 55% could perform (at a local or central level) molecular diagnostics.

Conclusion

Reported access to HEV diagnostic testing is suboptimal among sites that responded to the survey; this could negatively affect diagnosing HEV. Pre-travel consultations before travel to South Asia and other low-income and high-prevalence areas with a focus on food and water precautions could be helpful in preventing hepatitis E infection. Improved HEV diagnostic capacity should be implemented to prevent and correctly diagnose travel-related HEV infection.
COVID-19 Pandemic Once Again Exposes the Weakest Link in Laboratory Services: Specimen Delivery
Authors: Lapić Ivana , Komljenović Sven , Knežević Josip , Rogić Dunja
Published: August 2020

Objective

Reorganization of the emergency department (ED) during the COVID-19 pandemic implied closure of the ED-dedicated laboratory and manual transport of all specimens to the dislocated central laboratory. The impact of such reorganization on laboratory turnaround time (TAT) was examined.

Methods

The TAT from blood sampling to specimen reception (TAT1), from specimen reception to test reporting (TAT2), and from sampling to test reporting (TAT3) were compared between the pandemic peak month in 2020 and the same month in 2019. We evaluated whether TAT2 fulfills the recommended 60-minute criteria.

Results

A statistically significant difference was observed for all comparisons (P <.001), with TAT1 prominently contributing to TAT3 prolongation (from 48 minutes to 108 minutes) and exceeding the recommended 60-minute criteria. The TAT2 was extended from 33 minutes to 49 minutes.

Conclusion

An ED reorganization compromised the usual laboratory services for patients in the ED, with manual specimen delivery being the main cause for TAT prolongation.
Steve Reich’s Signature Rhythm and an Introduction to Rhythmic Qualities
Authors: Yust Jason
Published: August 2020

The rhythm of Steve Reich’s Clapping Music (1972) features in so many of his pieces that it can be understood as a rhythmic signature. A theory of rhythmic qualities allows us to identify the signature rhythm’s significant features and relate it to other cyclic rhythms like the Central/West African “standard pattern,” from which it probably originates. Rhythmic qualities derive from the discrete Fourier transform, whose mathematical properties make the theory particularly robust. One property, described by the convolution theorem, predicts the effects of Reich’s diverse rhythmic canons. I apply the theory to Music for Pieces of Wood (1973) and Nagoya Marimbas (1994).
Economic Costs of Diseases and Deaths Attributable to Tobacco Use in India, 2017–2018
Authors: John Rijo M , Sinha Praveen , Munish Vineet Gill , Tullu Fikru T
Published: August 2020

Introduction

About 28.6% of Indian adults use tobacco. This study estimates the economic burden of deaths and diseases attributable to smoking and smokeless tobacco (SLT) use for persons aged ≥35 years.

Methods

The National Sample Survey data on healthcare expenditures, the Global Adult Tobacco Survey data on tobacco use prevalence, and relative risks of all-cause mortality from tobacco use were used to estimate the economic burden of diseases and deaths attributable to tobacco use in India, using a prevalence-based attributable-risk approach. Costs are estimated under the following heads: (1) direct medical and nonmedical expenditures; (2) indirect morbidity costs; and (3) indirect mortality costs of premature deaths.

Results

Total economic costs attributable to tobacco use from all diseases and deaths in India in the year 2017–2018 for persons 35 years or older amount to INR 1773.4 billion (US $27.5 billion), of which 22% is direct and 78% is indirect cost. Men bear 91% of the total costs. Smoking contributed 74% and SLT use contributed 26% of the costs.

Conclusions

The economic costs of tobacco use amount to approximately 1.04% of India’s gross domestic product (GDP), while the excise tax revenue from tobacco in the previous year was only 12.2% of its economic costs. The direct medical costs alone amount to 5.3% of total health expenditure. The enormous costs imposed on the nation’s health care system due to tobacco use could potentially stress the public health care system and strain the economy and it warrants massive scaling up of tobacco control efforts in India.

Implications

The study finds that the economic burden from tobacco constitutes more than 1% of India’s GDP, and the direct health expenditures on treating tobacco-related diseases alone accounts for 5.3% of the total private and public health expenditures in India in a year. It shows that, for every INR 100 that is received as excise taxes from tobacco products, INR 816 of costs is imposed on society through its consumption. It establishes that tobacco consumption is a major resource drain on the national exchequer, and its effective regulation through comprehensive fiscal and non-fiscal policies is highly warranted.
Cigarette Smoking Reduction and Health Risks: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Joanne T , Anic Gabriella M , Rostron Brian L , Tanwar Manju , Chang Cindy M
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Studies have shown the health benefits of cigarette smoking cessation. However, the literature remains unclear about the relationship between smoking reduction and health risks. This comprehensive review and meta-analysis updates previous reviews with the newest estimates.

Aims and Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the association between smoking reduction and some health risks in observational studies. We defined the following smoking categories: heavy smokers smoked ≥15–20 cigarettes per day (CPD), moderate smokers smoked 10–19 CPD, and light smokers smoked <10 CPD. The relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using random-effect models.

Results

We identified 19 studies including four case–control and 15 cohort studies. Compared with continuing heavy smokers, we found decreased lung cancer risk for those who reduced CPD by more than 50% (RR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.52, 0.91), from heavy to moderate (RR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.46, 0.85), and from heavy to light (RR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.49, 0.72). We also found lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) for those who reduced from heavy to light smoking (RR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.67, 0.89) but not those who reduced by more than 50% and reduced smoking from heavy to moderate. We did not find any significant difference in all-cause mortality, all-cancer risks, and smoking-/tobacco-related cancer risk among those who reduced.

Conclusions

Substantial smoking reduction may decrease lung cancer risk but results on CVD (coronary heart disease and stroke combined) risk were mixed. The relationships between smoking reduction and other endpoints examined were not significant.

Implications

This meta-analysis helps clarify our understanding of various smoking reduction levels on some health risks. While smoking reduction may decrease risks of lung cancer, the relationships between smoking reduction and other endpoints, including all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease, remain unclear. Although smoking reduction may decrease lung cancer risks, the magnitude of lung cancer risk remain high. Among smokers, complete cessation remains the most effective approach for cancer and CVD prevention.
Immunogenicity of Inactivated Varicella Zoster Vaccine (ZVIN) in Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (auto-HSCT) Recipients
Authors: Boeckh Michael , Arvin Ann , Mullane Kathleen , Winston Drew J , Brown Janice (Wes) , Pergam Steven , Hurtado Kimberly , Pang Lei , Lee Ingi , Popmihajlov Zoran ,   on behalf of the V212 Protocol 001 Study Team
Published: August 2020

Background

Recipients of auto-HSCT have an increased risk of herpes zoster (HZ) infection; however, live attenuated varicella-zoster virus (VZV) vaccine is contraindicated in these patients. In this pivotal Phase III study (V212-001; NCT01229267) inactivated VZV vaccine (ZVIN) reduced the rate of HZ infection compared with placebo (estimated vaccine efficacy, 63.8%) and was well tolerated. Immunogenicity of ZVINin recipients of auto-HSCT was assessed in the Phase III study as an exploratory objective.

Methods

Adults undergoing auto-HSCT were randomized to receive either ZVIN(n = 560) or placebo (n = 564), administered in a 4-dose regimen. Doses 1 through 4 were administered ~30 days before and ~30, ~60, and ~90 days following auto-HSCT. VZV-specific immune responses were measured at Day 1, ~28 days post-vaccinations 3 and 4, and annually until the end of the study. VZV-specific antibody responses were measured by glycoprotein enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (gpELISA) in all patients; cell-mediated immune responses were measured by VZV interferon-gamma enzyme-linked immunospot (IFN-γ ELISPOT) assay in a randomized subset of patients (n = 403).

Results

Geometric mean titers (GMT) were significantly higher and the ratios of the gpELISA and IFN-γ ELISPOT were significantly greater in the ZVINgroup compared with the placebo group (Tables 1 and 2).

Conclusion

ZVIN elicited higher VZV-specific humoral and cell-mediated responses in adult auto-HSCT recipients when compared with placebo ~28 days and ~1 year post-dose 4. These results indicate that ZVIN is immunogenic in these patients who are ineligible for live attenuated HZ vaccine, which is consistent with previously observed clinical efficacy.

Disclosures

M. Boeckh, Merck: Investigator, Research Contractor and Scientific Advisor, Consulting fee and Research support; GlaxoSmithKline: Research Contractor, Research support; A. Arvin, Merck: Scientific Advisor, Consulting fee; K. Mullane, Merck: Scientific Advisor, Grant recipient; D. J. Winston, Merck: Grant Investigator and Scientific Advisor, Consulting fee and Grant recipient; J. Brown, Merck: Clinical adjudication and site investigator and Investigator, Consulting fee; Cellerant Therapeutics: Consultant, Cellerant developing and executing clinical trials of myeloid progenitor cells in neutropenia for which I hold the patent; S. Pergam, Merck: Consultant and Investigator, Consulting fee; K. Hurtado, Merck: Employee and Shareholder, Salary; L. Pang, Merck: Employee and Shareholder, Salary; I. Lee, Merck: Employee, Salary; Z. Popmihajlov, Merck & Co., Inc.: Employee and Shareholder, Salary
The Persistence of Fee Dispersion among Mutual Funds*
Authors: Cooper Michael J , Halling Michael , Yang Wenhao
Published: August 2020

Previous work shows large differences in fees for S&P 500 index funds and other funds and suggests that investors suffer wealth losses investing in high-fee funds when similar low-fee funds are available. In contrast, the neoclassical model of mutual funds (Berk and van Binsbergen, 2015, J. Financ. Econ., 118, 1–20) argues that percentage fees are irrelevant, as fund size will adjust in equilibrium such that net alphas are equal to zero. We show that fees matter from an investor perspective. We document (i) a strong negative association between net-of-fee fund performance and fees in a sample of all US and international equity funds, (ii) economically large, robust, persistent, and pervasive fee dispersion in the mutual fund industry, and (iii) important economic effects for investors. During the sample period, the mutual fund industry has generated a total value lost (i.e., a negative net value added) of 125 billion USD, coming predominantly from high-fee funds.
REM sleep-dependent short-term and long-term hourglass processes in the ultradian organization and recovery of REM sleep in the rat
Authors: Ocampo-Garcés Adrián , Bassi Alejandro , Brunetti Enzo , Estrada Jorge , Vivaldi Ennio A
Published: August 2020

Study Objectives

To evaluate the contribution of long-term and short-term REM sleep homeostatic processes to REM sleep recovery and the ultradian organization of the sleep wake cycle.

Methods

Fifteen rats were sleep recorded under a 12:12 LD cycle. Animals were subjected during the rest phase to two protocols (2T2I or 2R2I) performed separately in non-consecutive experimental days. 2T2I consisted of 2 h of total sleep deprivation (TSD) followed immediately by 2 h of intermittent REM sleep deprivation (IRD). 2R2I consisted of 2 h of selective REM sleep deprivation (RSD) followed by 2 h of IRD. IRD was composed of four cycles of 20-min RSD intervals alternating with 10 min of sleep permission windows.

Results

REM sleep debt that accumulated during deprivation (9.0 and 10.8 min for RSD and TSD, respectively) was fully compensated regardless of cumulated NREM sleep or wakefulness during deprivation. Protocol 2T2I exhibited a delayed REM sleep rebound with respect to 2R2I due to a reduction of REM sleep transitions related to enhanced NREM sleep delta-EEG activity, without affecting REM sleep consolidation. Within IRD permission windows there was a transient and duration-dependent diminution of REM sleep transitions.

Conclusions

REM sleep recovery in the rat seems to depend on a long-term hourglass process activated by REM sleep absence. Both REM sleep transition probability and REM sleep episode consolidation depend on the long-term REM sleep hourglass. REM sleep activates a short-term REM sleep refractory period that modulates the ultradian organization of sleep states.
Children Left Unattended in Parked Vehicles in India: An Analysis of 40 Fatalities from 2011 to 2020
Authors: Fatima Siddiqui Gulnaz , Vir Singh Mukesh , Shrivastava Anubha , Maurya Manisha , Tripathi Ambuj , Akhtar Siddiqui Shahid
Published: August 2020

Background

Fatalities in children left unattended in parked motor vehicles are being reported frequently in the last decade but little research has been done analysing the circumstances leading to such preventable deaths in India.

Objectives

To analyse circumstances leading to fatalities in children left unattended in parked motor vehicles in India.

Methods

This study was a descriptive analysis conducted on the basis of an Internet search of published news in major Indian newspapers/channels using different combination of keywords. We extracted data from the published news using a pre-determined tool.

Results

Between 2011 and 2020, there were 23 incidents that resulted in 40 fatalities across India mostly in summer months. Majority of children were 4–6 years of age (26/40). Ninety percent of children gained access to unattended vehicles for playing and getting locked accidentally (36/40) while remaining cases involved being forgotten (3/40) or intentionally left behind (1/40).

Conclusion

Majority of hyperthermia-related deaths occurred while children gained access to unattended vehicles for playing and getting locked accidentally.
XVIII Bibliography, Textual Criticism and Reference Works
Authors: Baker William
Published: August 2020

This chapter has four sections: 1: Periodicals; 2. Editions and Catalogues; 3. Bibliography, Associated Books and Articles, Histories, and Companions; 4. Shakespeare and Miscellaneous, Including Reference Materials. These sections are not inviolable. With some exceptions this review of the year’s work published in 2018 in the areas of bibliography, textual criticism, and reference materials is alphabetically arranged. Within the alphabetical arrangement by author there are some exceptions where publications are grouped under the respective authors rather than under editors of, for instance, the correspondence. There is also included in this chapter work that has been missed in some of the other chapters in this volume. Readers should be aware that coverage is largely limited to those items that have been received by the contributor, who would like to thank James Fergusson, James E. May, who contributed the section on the Eighteenth-Century Intelligencer, Patrick Scott, who contributed the items on Scottish literature, and Jan Webster for their assistance.
Risk Factors of Cage Subsidence in Patients Received Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Yao Yu-Cheng , Chou Po-Hsin , Lin Hsi-Hsien , Wang Shih-Tien , Liu Chien-Lin , Chang Ming-Chau
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

A retrospective cohort study.

Objective.

To determine the risk factors of cage subsidence in patients undergoing minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) and its correlation with patient-reported outcomes.

Summary of Background Data.

Cage subsidence is among the cage-related complications after TLIF and may lead to poor outcomes. Few studies have addressed the incidence of cage subsidence in MI-TLIF.

Methods.

This retrospective study of a prospectively collected database was conducted from October 2015 to October 2017. All patients received MI-TLIF with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. All levels were separated into the cage subsidence (CS group) and no cage subsidence (non-CS group) groups. Cage subsidence was evaluated using lateral radiographs and defined as more than 2 mm migration of the cage into the endplate of adjacent vertebral body. Patient demographics, perioperative details, and radiographic parameters were recorded. Cage-related parameters were cage height, cage insertion level, and cage position. Cage position was recorded using central point ration (CPR). Patient-reported outcome was analyzed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) preoperatively and at 2 years postoperatively.

Results.

Ninety-three patients (126 levels) were included. Mean age was 66.5 years with an average follow-up of 36.9 months. Overall incidence of cage subsidence was 34.1%. The CS group had significantly higher body mass index, less bone mineral density (BMD), shorter disc height, and higher CPR than the non-CS group. BMD, disc height, and CPR were significantly negatively correlated with depth of cage subsidence. ODI improvement was significantly lesser in the CS group than in the non-CS group. Fusion rate and complications were unrelated to cage subsidence.

Conclusion.

The BMD, disc height, and cage position were the most significant risk factors that were negatively correlated with depth of cage subsidence. Placing a TLIF cage anteriorly if possible may reduce the risk of cage subsidence.

Level of Evidence:3
Undisclosed Conflict of Interest Is Prevalent in Spine Literature
Authors: Tisherman Robert T. , Wawrose Richard A. , Chen Joseph , Donaldson William F. , Lee Joon Y. , Shaw Jeremy D.
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

Cohort study.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to determine the rate of accurate conflict of interest (COI) disclosure within three prominent subspecialty Spine journals during a 4-year period.

Summary of Background Data.

Industry–physician relationships are crucial for technological advancement in spine surgery but serve as a source of bias in biomedical research. The Open Payments Database (OPD) was established after 2010 to increase financial transparency.

Methods.

All research articles published from 2014 to 2017 in Spine, The Spine Journal (TSJ), and the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine (JNS) were reviewed in this study. In these articles, all author's COI statements were recorded. The OPD was queried for all author entries within the disclose period of the journal. Discrepancies between the author's self-reported COIs and the documented COIs from OPD were recorded.

Results.

A total of 6816 articles meeting inclusion criteria between 2014 and 2017 in Spine, TSJ, and JNS with 39,869 contributing authors. Overall, 15.8% of all authors were found to have an OPD financial relationship. Of 2633 authors in Spine with financial disclosures, 77.1% had accurate financial disclosures; 42.5% and 41.0% of authors with financial relationships in the OPD had accurate financial disclosures in TSJ and JNS, respectively. The total value of undisclosed conflicts of interest between 2014 and 2017 was $421 million with $1.48 billion in accurate disclosures. Of undisclosed payments, 68.7% were <$1000 and only 7.2% were >$10,000. Undisclosed payments included $180 million in research funding and $188 million in royalties.

Conclusion.

This study demonstrates that undisclosed COI is highly prevalent for authors in major Spine journals. This study indicates that there remains a need to standardize definitions and financial thresholds for significant COI as well as to shift the reporting burden for COI to journals who actively review potential COIs instead of relying on self-reporting.

Level of Evidence: 3
Facet Arthropathy Following Disc Replacement Versus Rehabilitation
Authors: Furunes Håvard , Berg Linda , Espeland Ansgar , Thoresen Hanne , Neckelmann Gesche , Brøgger Helga Maria , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Brox Jens Ivar , Storheim Kjersti , Hellum Christian
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

A prospective study of patients originally randomized to total disc replacement (TDR) or multidisciplinary rehabilitation.

Objective.

To assess the long-term development of facet arthropathy (FA) after TDR versus nonoperative treatment, and to analyze the association between FA and clinical outcome.

Summary of Background Data.

FA may appear or increase following TDR, but the natural course of FA is unclear, and no previous study has evaluated the long-term development of FA following TDR compared with nonoperative treatment.

Methods.

The study included 126 patients with chronic low back pain and degenerative changes in the lumbar intervertebral discs. The patients underwent pretreatment and 8-year follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 8-year follow-up computed tomography (CT) of the lumbar spine. The primary outcome measure was FA development (yes/no) on MRI at index level L4/L5 or L5/S1, defined as increased FA grade value from pretreatment to follow-up according to Weishaupt grading system. Secondary outcomes included the association between FA (on MRI and CT) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) or back pain as well as reoperations.

Results.

Increased index level FA grade was more frequent after TDR versus nonoperative treatment (36%, 25/69 vs. 2%, 1/57 of patients, P < 0.001), but was not related to change in ODI or back pain. At follow-up, index level FA grades were higher after TDR versus nonoperative treatment (odds ratio 4.0 MRI and 5.9 CT), but were not related to ODI less than or equal to 22. Four patients (6%) treated with TDR and no patients treated nonoperatively were operated for lateral recess stenosis with posterior decompression at the index level during follow-up.

Conclusion.

Index level FA development was more likely after TDR compared with nonoperative treatment but was not associated with the 8-year clinical outcome. Index level FA may have contributed to reoperations in the TDR group.

Level of Evidence: 2
“IV+V+VI” Circumferential Decompression Technique for Thoracic Myelopathy Caused by the Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament or Hard Disc Herniation
Authors: Chen Guanghui , Chen Zhongqiang , Li Weishi , Zeng Yan , Zhong Woquan , Sun Chuiguo
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

A retrospective study.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to describe a novel posterior approach, circumspinal decompression technique “IV+V+VI” for ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) or hard disc herniation (HDH) in thoracic spine and assess its safety and efficacy.

Summary of Background Data.

Thoracic myelopathy caused by OPLL or HDH is a rare but intractable disorder that can only be effectively treated with surgery. Nevertheless, few studies have reported on a detailed resection of OPLL or HDH using a single posterior approach and no consistent procedures have been established.

Methods.

Fifteen consecutive patients with single-level OPLL or HDH who were treated with this novel technique at our center between January 2016 and June 2017 were recruited. The perioperative complications, operation time, blood loss, pre- and postoperative neurological statuses were recorded and analyzed. Neurological status was evaluated with a modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scale and the neurological recovery rate was calculated using the Hirabayashi's Method.

Results.

All the included patients underwent one-stage posterior circumferential decompression. The average age at surgery was 43.3 ± 12.8 years. Eight cases were diagnosed with HDH, four with OPLL, and three with OPLL+OLF (ossification of the ligamentum flavum). The mean operation time was 109.9 ± 25.3 minutes with an average blood loss of 433.3 ± 221.8 mL. The mean follow-up period was 33.1 ± 7.5 months. Five patients experienced a dural tear, whereas another case experienced a transient numbness in the right lower limb. All these patients were treated conservatively and their neurological function recovered well at the final follow-up. The average JOA score increased from 5.8 ± 1.9 before surgery to 10.2 ± 1.0 postoperatively, and the average recovery rate was 87.2%.

Conclusion.

The “IV+V+VI” technique is a safe and effective method for thoracic OPLL and HDH resection. It can be used as a standard surgical procedure for thoracic spinal circumferential decompression.

Level of Evidence: 4
Influence of Hand Grip Strength on Surgical Outcomes After Surgery for Adult Spinal Deformity
Authors: Kwon Ohsang , Kim Ho-Joong , Shen Feng , Park Sang-Min , Chang Bong-Soon , Lee Choon-Ki , Yeom Jin S.
Published: August 2020

Study Design.

A prospective observational study.

Objective.

This study was done to examine the influence of hand grip strength (HGS) on surgical outcomes of adult spinal deformity (ASD) patients.

Summary of Background Data.

No study has investigated the relation between hand grip strength and treatment outcome of adult spinal deformity correction surgery.

Methods.

A total of 78 consecutive patients who underwent adult spinal deformity correction surgery were included in this study. Patients were assigned to either the high HGS (≥ 26 kg for men and ≥ 18 kg for women, n = 26) or the low HGS (< 26 kg for men and < 18 kg for women, n = 52) based on their preoperative measurements. The Oswestry disability index (ODI), EQ-5D, and visual analog scale (VAS) for back pain were assessed preoperatively, and 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively. The primary outcome measure was ODI scores 12 months after surgery. The secondary outcome measures included the overall ODI scores, EQ-5D, and VAS for back pain, assessed at each time point during the 12-months follow-up.

Results.

The ODI score at 12 months after surgery was significantly lower in the high HGS group than the low HGS group (P < 0.001), which was best predicted by a multivariate regression model including age, gender, BMI, HGS, and preoperative ODI scores. The overall ODI score, EQ-5D, and VAS for back pain had better outcomes in the high HGS group across each follow-up assessment (P < 0.001 for all follow-ups), while they improved significantly with time after surgery in both groups.

Conclusions.

Patients with higher preoperative HGS displayed better surgical outcomes, in terms of disability and health-related quality of life at 12 months after reconstructive spinal surgery for ASD.

Level of Evidence: 2
HJHS 2.1 and HEAD-US assessment in the hemophilic joints: How do their findings compare?
Authors: De la Corte-Rodriguez Hortensia , Rodriguez-Merchan Emerito Carlos , Alvarez-Roman Maria Teresa , Martin-Salces Mónica , Martinoli Carlo , Jimenez-Yuste Víctor
Published: August 2020

In hemophilic patients methods are needed to better diagnose joint damage early, so that treatments can be adjusted to slow the progression of hemophilic arthropathy. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the Hemophilia Joint Health Score version 2.1 (HJHS 2.1) and hemophilia early arthropathy detection with ultrasound (HEAD-US) scales, as well as each of their individual items, to better understand the value each provides on the joint condition of patients with hemophilia. The study included data from patients with hemophilia older than 16 years of age, who attended a routine check-up. HJHS 2.1 and HEAD-US assessments were performed on the elbows, knees and ankles. We studied the correlations and agreements between the two scales and analyzed the relationship between the various items of the HJHS 2.1 (inflammation, duration, atrophy, crepitation, flexion deficit, extension deficit, pain, strength, gait) and HEAD-US (synovitis, cartilage and bone). The study included 203 joints from 66 patients with hemophilia (mean age, 34 years). We found a good correlation between the two scales (r = 0.717). However, HJHS 2.1 revealed only 54% of the cases with synovitis and 75% of the cases with osteochondral damage. HEAD-US detected several relevant physical and functional aspects in less than 53% of the cases. HJHS 2.1 and HEAD-US provide complementary data on joint disease in adults with hemophilia; both assessments should therefore, be made available. HEAD-US presented the added value of detecting early joint changes (synovitis and osteochondral damage), while HJHS 2.1 showed the added value of detecting relevant physical and functional changes.
Predictive factors of long-term follow-up in treatment of Korean alcoholics with naltrexone or acamprosate
Authors: Huh Sung Young , Kim Sung-Gon , Hong Tae Kyung
Published: August 2020

Medication is integral in treating alcohol use disorder. However, because of the small to medium effect size, much effort is being exerted to identify predicting factors for effective pharmacological treatment in alcohol abuse disorder. Rather than focusing on abstinence days, alcohol craving, or frequency of drinking, which has been the focus of previous studies. Recently, there have been several studies which focused on follow-up length as an indicator of pharmacological treatment effe ctiveness. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predicting factors of long-term follow-up in treating Korean alcoholics with naltrexone or acamprosate. A retrospective study was conducted. Medical records of all patients diagnosed from November 2008 to May 2017 with alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence at psychiatric clinics at PNUYH were reviewed. We examined total days of which naltrexone or acamprosate were prescribed, and investigated if there were predicting factors maintaining follow-up at least 180 days or more. With these data, logistic regression analysis was conducted. In naltrexone long group compared to naltrexone short group, factors of having medical comorbidities [odds ratio (OR) = 5.477, P = 0.012] showed higher OR. In acamprosate long group, factors of age (OR = 1.083, P = 0.030), and use of more than four psychotropic medications (OR = 7.107, P = 0.030), showed higher OR. In both medications, predicting factors were different from the other. Further study to investigate the reasons would provide us with a new insight.
Intravenous vortioxetine to accelerate onset of effect in major depressive disorder: a 7-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled exploratory study
Authors: Rancans Elmars , Zambori Janos , Dalsgaard Mads , Baayen Corine , Areberg Johan , Ettrup Anders , Florea Ioana
Published: August 2020

This 7-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled fixed-dose study (NCT03766867) explored the potential for accelerating the onset of antidepressant efficacy of single-dose intravenous (IV) vortioxetine at oral vortioxetine treatment initiation. Patients (ages 18–65 years) hospitalized per standard-of-care with major depressive disorder, who were currently treated with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor for a major depressive episode [Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score ≥ 30], received one dose of single-blind IV placebo (1-day placebo lead-in period) before being randomly switched to either single-dose IV vortioxetine 25 mg plus daily oral vortioxetine 10 mg (n = 39), or IV placebo plus daily oral placebo (n = 41). In the placebo lead-in period, patients improved slightly by 0.6 MADRS-6 point; however, at day 1 after randomization, both treatment groups had improved by approximately 3 MADRS-6 points (mean difference = −0.8;P = 0.263), the study thus not meeting its primary endpoint. Similar results were seen for other outcomes except a numerically larger improvement in anxiety symptoms with vortioxetine vs placebo. Pharmacokinetic data confirmed that IV vortioxetine facilitated reaching steady-state plasma concentration within 24 h. IV plus oral vortioxetine was well tolerated, with low levels of nausea as the most common adverse event.
The evolution of trust and trustworthiness
Authors: Kumar Aanjaneya , Capraro Valerio , Perc Matjaž
Published: August 2020

Trust and trustworthiness form the basis for continued social and economic interactions, and they are also fundamental for cooperation, fairness, honesty, and indeed for many other forms of prosocial and moral behaviour. However, trust entails risks, and building a trustworthy reputation requires effort. So how did trust and trustworthiness evolve, and under which conditions do they thrive? To find answers, we operationalize trust and trustworthiness using the trust game with the trustor’s investment and the trustee’s return of the investment as the two key parameters. We study this game on different networks, including the complete network, random and scale-free networks, and in the well-mixed limit. We show that in all but one case, the network structure has little effect on the evolution of trust and trustworthiness. Specifically, for well-mixed populations, lattices, random and scale-free networks, we find that trust never evolves, while trustworthiness evolves with some probability depending on the game parameters and the updating dynamics. Only for the scale-free network with degree non-normalized dynamics, we find parameter values for which trust evolves but trustworthiness does not, as well as values for which both trust and trustworthiness evolve. We conclude with a discussion about mechanisms that could lead to the evolution of trust and outline directions for future work.
A model of the optimal selection of crypto assets
Authors: Bartolucci Silvia , Kirilenko Andrei
Published: August 2020

We propose a modelling framework for the optimal selection of crypto assets. We assume that crypto assets can be described according to two features:security(technological) andstability(governance). We simulate optimal selection decisions of investors, being driven by (i) their attitudes towards assets’ features, (ii) information about the adoption trends, and (iii) expected future economic benefits of adoption. Under a variety of modelling scenarios—e.g. in terms of composition of the crypto assets landscape and investors’ preferences—we are able to predict the features of the assets that will be most likely adopted, which can be mapped to macro-classes of existing crypto assets (stablecoins, crypto tokens, central bank digital currencies and cryptocurrencies).
Firing patterns of gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons are sculpted by their biologic state
Authors: Penix Jonathon , DeFazio R. Anthony , Dulka Eden A. , Schnell Santiago , Moenter Suzanne M.
Published: August 2020

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons form the final pathway for the central neuronal control of fertility. GnRH is released in pulses that vary in frequency in females, helping drive hormonal changes of the reproductive cycle. In the common fertility disorder polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), persistent high-frequency hormone release is associated with disrupted cycles. We investigated long- and short-term action potential patterns of GnRH neurons in brain slices before and after puberty in female control and prenatally androgenized (PNA) mice, which mimic aspects of PCOS. A Monte Carlo (MC) approach was used to randomize action potential interval order. Dataset distributions were analysed to assess (i) if organization persists in GnRH neuron activity
in vitro
, and (ii) to determine if any organization changes with development and/or PNA treatment. GnRH neurons in adult control, but not PNA, mice produce long-term patterns different from MC distributions. Short-term patterns differ from MC distributions before puberty but become absorbed into the distributions with maturation, and the distributions narrow. These maturational changes are blunted by PNA treatment. Firing patterns of GnRH neurons in brain slices thus maintain organization dictated at least in part by the biologic status of the source and are disrupted in models of disease.
Feeding, hunger, satiety and serotonin in invertebrates
Authors: Tierney Ann Jane
Published: August 2020

The serotonergic modulation of feeding behaviour has been intensively studied in several invertebrate groups, including Arthropoda, Annelida, Nematoda and Mollusca. These studies offer comparative information on feeding regulation across divergent phyla and also provide general insights into the neural control of feeding. Specifically, model invertebrates are ideal for parsing feeding behaviour into component parts and examining the underlying mechanisms at the levels of biochemical pathways, single cells and identified neural circuitry. Research has found that serotonin is crucial during certain phases of feeding behaviour, especially movements directly underlying food intake, but inessential during other phases. In addition, while the serotonin system can be manipulated systemically in many animals, invertebrate model organisms also allow manipulations at the level of single cells and molecules, revealing limited and precise serotonergic actions. The latter highlight the importance of local versus global modulatory effects of serotonin, a potentially significant consideration for drug and pesticide design.
Tichowtungia aerotolerans gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel representative of the phylum Kiritimatiellaeota and proposal of Tichowtungiaceae fam. nov., Tichowtungiales ord. nov. and Tichowtungiia class. nov.
Authors: Mu Da-Shuai , Zhou Liu-Yan , Liang Qi-Yun , Chen Guan-Jun , Du Zong-Jun
Published: August 2020

Kiritimatiellaeotais widespread and ecologically important in various anoxic environments. However, the portion of culturable bacteria within this phylum is quite low and, in fact, there is only one currently described species. In this study, a novel anaerobic, non-motile, coccoid, Gram-stain-negative bacterial strain, designated S-5007T, was isolated from surface marine sediment. The 16S rRNA gene sequence was found to have very low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to the nearest known type strain,Kiritimatiella glycovoransL21-Fru-ABT(84.9 %). The taxonomic position of the novel isolate was investigated using a polyphasic approach and comparative genomic analysis. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA genes and genomes indicated that strain S-5007Tbranched within the radiation of the phylumKiritimatiellaeota. Different from the type strain, strain S-5007Tcan grow under microaerobic conditions, and the genomes of strain S-5007Tand the other strains in its branch have many more antioxidant-related genes. Meanwhile, other different metabolic features deduced from genome analysis supported the separate evolution of the proposed class (strain S-5007Tbranch) andK. glycovoransL21-Fru-ABT. Based on phylogenetic and phenotypic characterization studies,Tichowtungia aerotoleransgen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed with S-5007T(=MCCC 1H00402T=KCTC 15876T) as the type strain, as the ﬁrst representative of novel taxa,Tichowtungialesord. nov.,Tichowtungiaceaefam. nov. inTichowtungiiaclass. nov.