bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study On Fly Ash as a Partial Replacement Material in Highway Embankment
Authors: Ramalakshmi Dr. , Hari Krishna S.
Published: December 2020

Fly debris (FA)-is a side-effect failure extracted from coal terminated force plants by electrical / electrostatic clarifier. India does have the planet’s very largest coal reserves. In the current scenario, about 160 million tonnes of fly-debris have been produced, almost double in the last decade. A significant proportion of warm-force plants in India use bitumen and subbituminous coal and generate huge volumes of fly debris. High debris material (30 percent-half) of fossil fuels adds to these enormous fly debris volumes. Fly-debris is used in various sections such as block making, construction of streets and banks, concrete processing, agricultural uses, low-lying areas recovery, mines filling. Dust Dyke Raising the wasted enormous volume of fly debris has attracted analysts’ attention to explore new wide use techniques. Fly debris bank is one of the drive regions to mass disperse fly dust. As in India, the actual condition of street and dike fly debris use is just 6 percent. The present study refers to the potential uses as a dike material for fly debris. Fly debris does have the larger part of the important and good geophysical patent for its use as bank fill.
Electromagnetic absorption efficiency of aluminum doped composite materials recycled from waste Tetra Pak packages in the frequency range 1.8 GHz to 5 GHz
Authors: Kaya Ali İhsan , Çifci Ahmet , Gözel Mahmut Ahmet , Kahriman Mesud
Published: December 2020

Electromagnetic interference produced by high-speed electrical and electronic systems (i.e., base stations, mobile phones, radar, television and radio transmitters) that facilitate daily life also caused a pollution to be dealtwith as a part of daily life. Increasing use of electronic devices arising from the rapid developments in science and technology increased electromagnetic interference in electronic devices well besides the electromagnetic pollution in the environment. Therefore, there is a tremendous need to develop effective protection against the negative effects of electromagnetic interference. The objective of this paper is to make the composite boards from the recycling of Tetra Pak packages and to investigate the effect of aluminum additive on absorption efficiency of electromagnetic interference at various frequencies. Experimental results showed that as the ratio of aluminum additive rate in the composite material increased, the attenuation ratio increased.
Formulation and analysis of cost-effective environment-friendly metal cutting nanofluids using zinc oxide on turning of AISI 52100 steel using MQL
Authors: Mustafa Saed Enam , Ali Mohammed , Iqbal Asif , Shaikh Mohd Bilal Naim , Hassan Rafid
Published: December 2020

Many research works focused on using vegetable oils alone as cutting fluid and some with nanoparticles for better lubrication. But very few literature pieces are available for the use of environment-friendly nanoparticles and vegetable oils in machining. Also, the nanoparticles generally used for the research is expensive. With this paper’s help, some alternatives to conventional machining fluids are exposed through the formulation and analysis of nanofluids, which are economically feasible, effective lubricants, and environmentally friendly. For this, vegetable oils such as palm oil, peanut oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil, and castor oil are used to turn AISI 52100 (EN31) steels using tungsten carbide insert (VNMG160408) under the environment of a minimum quantity of lubrication. A newly developed environment-friendly metal cutting nanofluids of three base fluids is prepared with three zinc oxide concentrations. The most suitable nanoparticle inclusion ratio for nanofluid preparation is determined after machining at fixed levels of machining parameters.Further experiments and analyses are carried out based on Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array to identify the appropriate cutting parameters for optimization. A considerable reduction in surface roughness and the cutting temperature are achieved using an environmentally-friendly metal cutting nanofluids instead of the base fluids. A maximum reduction in surface roughness of about 57% is obtained for EN31 using palm oil-based metal cutting nanofluids with 0.125% of the nanoparticle. About 13% drop in cutting temperature is observed using sunflower and groundnut based metal cutting nanofluids, both with 0.125% concentration. Results also indicate that the environment-friendly metal cutting nanofluids used in the experiment can replace the conventional fluids used in most metal cutting industries.
Comparison of absorption simulation in semiconductor nanowire and nanocone arrays with the Fourier modal method, the finite element method, and the finite-difference time-domain method
Authors: Anttu Nicklas , Mäntynen Henrik , Sadi Toufik , Matikainen Antti , Turunen Jari , Lipsanen Harri
Published: December 2020

For the design of nanostructured semiconductor solar cells and photodetectors, optics modelling can be a useful tool that reduces the need of time-consuming and costly prototyping. We compare the performance of three of the most popular numerical simulation methods for nanostructure arrays: the Fourier modal method (FMM), the finite element method (FEM) and the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The difference between the methods in computational time can be three orders of magnitude or more for a given system. The preferential method depends on the geometry of the nanostructures, the accuracy needed from the simulations, whether we are interested in the total, volume-integrated absorption or spatially resolved absorption, and whether we are interested in broadband or narrowband response. Based on our benchmarking results, we provide guidance on how to choose the method.
On a Wing and a Prayer! An Exploration of Students’ Experiences of External Supervision
Authors: Cleak Helen , Zuchowski Ines , Cleaver Mark
Published: December 2020

Field education is a core component of social work courses globally and has been recognised as providing significant learning opportunities to develop professional practice. Evidence highlights the strong correlation between student satisfaction with their supervisory relationship and their satisfaction with placement, but current practices have resulted in more reliance on placements with a variety of supervisory arrangements, which may be compromising a quality and supportive supervisory relationship. This article reports on an Australian online survey of 284 social work students about their experience of supervision, focusing on 119 students who received external supervision. Both quantitative ratings and qualitative comments showed that students generally described their external supervision as valuable and offered space to reflect critically on practice. Nevertheless, many felt disadvantaged without a social work presence onsite and not being observed or observing social work practice. Concerns were raised about task supervisors who offered supervision ‘on the run’ and had limited understanding of social work roles and values. Many students struggled on placement and felt that, once placement was confirmed, they received minimal support from University staff. Findings should alert field education programmes that students require consistent and ongoing involvement.
Hepatitis C Virus Transmission Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Amsterdam: External Introductions May Complicate Microelimination Efforts
Authors: Koopsen Jelle , Parker Edyth , Han Alvin X , van de Laar Thijs , Russell Colin , Hoornenborg Elske , Prins Maria , van der Valk Marc , Schinkel Janke
Published: December 2020

Background

It is unclear whether unrestricted access and high uptake of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) is sufficient to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) in high-risk populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM). This study presents historic trends and current dynamics of HCV transmission among MSM in Amsterdam based on sequence data collected between 1994 and 2019.

Methods

Hypervariable region 1 sequences of 232 primary HCV infections and 56 reinfections were obtained from 244 MSM in care in Amsterdam. Maximum-likelihood phylogenies were constructed for HCV genotypes separately, and time-scaled phylogenies were constructed using a Bayesian coalescent approach. Transmission clusters were determined by Phydelity and trends in the proportion of unclustered sequences over time were evaluated using logistic regression.

Results

Seventy-six percent (218/288) of sequences were part of 21 transmission clusters and 13 transmission pairs. Transmission cluster sizes ranged from 3 to 44 sequences. Most clusters were introduced between the late 1990s and early 2010s and no new clusters were introduced after 2012. The proportion of unclustered sequences of subtype 1a, the most prevalent subtype in this population, fluctuated between 0% and 20% in 2009–2012, after which an increase occurred from 0% in 2012 to 50% in 2018.

Conclusions

The proportion of external introductions of HCV infections among MSM in Amsterdam has recently increased, coinciding with high DAA uptake. Frequent international transmission events will likely complicate local microelimination efforts. Therefore, international collaboration combined with international scale-up of prevention, testing, and treatment of HCV infections (including reinfections) is warranted, in particular for local microelimination efforts.
Identification of a Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 and Neurosyphilis Cluster in Vermont
Authors: Singh Devika , Switzer William M , Belcher Roy , Daltry Daniel , Read Jennifer S
Published: December 2020

Background

Rates of syphilis in the United States have more than doubled over the last several decades, largely among men who have sex with men (MSM). Our study characterizes a cluster of neurosyphilis cases among people with human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) in Vermont in 2017–2018.

Methods

Vermont Department of Health disease intervention specialists conduct interviews with newly diagnosed HIV-1 cases and pursue sexual networking analyses. Phylogenetic and network analyses of available Vermont HIV-1 polymerase (pol) sequences identified clusters of infection. Fishers-exact and independent t-tests were used to compare people with HIV-1 within or outside an identified cluster.

Results

Between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2018, 38 residents were diagnosed with HIV-1 infection. The mean age was 35.5 years, 79% were male and 82% were White. Risk factors for HIV-1 included MSM status (79%) and methamphetamine use (21%). Eighteen cases (49%) had HIV-1 viral loads (VLs) >100 000 copies/mL and 47% had CD4 cell counts <200/mm3. Eleven of the 38 (29%) had positive syphilis serology, including four (36%) with neurosyphilis. Sexual networking analysis revealed a ten-person cluster with higher VLs at diagnosis (90% with VLs > 100 000 copies/mL vs 33%, P = 0.015). Phylogenetic analysis of pol sequences showed a cluster of 14 cases with sequences that shared 98%–100% HIV-1 nucleotide identity.

Conclusions

This investigation of newly infected HIV-1 cases in Vermont led to identification of a cluster that appeared more likely to have advanced HIV-1 disease and neurosyphilis, supported by phylogenetic and network analyses.
Physiological implications of life at the forest interface of oil palm agriculture: blood profiles of wild Malay civets (Viverra tangalunga)
Authors: Evans Meaghan N , Guerrero-Sanchez Sergio , Kille Peter , Müller Carsten T , Bakar Mohd Soffian Abu , Goossens Benoit
Published: December 2020

Agricultural development is a major threat to global biodiversity, and effective conservation actions are crucial. Physiological repercussions of life alongside human-modified landscapes can undermine adaptable species’ health and population viability; however, baseline data are lacking for many wildlife species. We assessed the physiological status of a generalist carnivore, the Malay civet (Viverra tangalunga), persisting within an extensively human-modified system in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. We characterized hematology and serum biochemistry panels from civets sampled across a mosaic landscape comprising tropical forest fragments and oil palm plantations. Intra-population variation in certain blood parameters were explained by expected biological drivers such as sex, age category and sampling season. Furthermore, we determined several erythrocyte measures, immune cell counts and dietary biochemistry markers significantly varied with proximity to oil palm plantation boundaries. These findings were supported by a case study, whereby blood profiles of GPS collared male civets were contrasted based on their exclusive use of forests or use of oil palm plantations. These data provide robust and valuable first insights into this species’ physiological status and suggest agricultural landscapes are impacting the persisting population.
Associating Site Characteristics With Distributions of Pestiferous and Predaceous Arthropods in Soybean
Authors: Greene A Daniel , Reay-Jones Francis P F , Kirk Kendall R , Peoples Brandon K , Greene Jeremy K
Published: December 2020

Although site-specific pest management has the potential to decrease control costs and environmental impact associated with traditional pest management tactics, the success of these programs relies on the accurate characterization of arthropod distributions within a crop. Because potential correlation of insect counts with remotely sensed field attribute data could help to decrease the costs associated with and need for fine-scale spatial sampling, we chose to determine which within-field variables would be informative of soybean arthropod counts in an attempt to move toward site-specific pest management in this crop. Two soybean fields were grid-sampled for pestiferous and predaceous arthropods, plant productivity estimates, and abiotic variable characterization in 2017–2018. Negative binomial, zero-inflated models were used to estimate presence and counts of soybean arthropod taxa based on normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), soybean plant height, soil electrical conductivity (ECa), elevation, and calendar week. Among all variables, calendar week was the most reliable predictor of arthropod counts, as it was a significant predictor for a majority of all taxa. Additionally, counts for a majority of pestiferous taxa were significantly associated with distance from the field edge, elevation, soybean plant height, and NDVI. Although site-specific pest management has the potential for reduced management inputs and increased profitability over conventional management (i.e., whole-field) practices, management zones must first be clearly defined based on the within-field variability for the variables of interest. If site-specific pest management practices are to be applied in soybean, calendar week (and associated soybean phenology), soybean plant height (and associated elevation), and NDVI may be useful for describing the distributions of pests, such as kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria (Hemiptera: Plataspidae) (Fabricius), green cloverworm, Hypena scabra (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) (Fabricius), velvetbean caterpillar, Anticarsia gemmatalis (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) (Hübner), and soybean looper, Chrysodeixis includens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) (Walker).
Kv1.3 Channel Inhibition Limits Uremia-Induced Calcification in Mouse and Human Vascular Smooth Muscle
Authors: Cazaña-Pérez Violeta , Cidad Pilar , Navarro-González Juan F , Rojo-Mencía Jorge , Jaisser Frederic , López-López José R , Alvarez de la Rosa Diego , Giraldez Teresa , Pérez-García Maria Teresa
Published: December 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly increases cardiovascular risk. In advanced CKD stages, accumulation of toxic circulating metabolites and mineral metabolism alterations triggers vascular calcification, characterized by vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) transdifferentiation and loss of the contractile phenotype. Phenotypic modulation of VSMC occurs with significant changes in gene expression. Even though ion channels are an integral component of VSMC function, the effects of uremia on ion channel remodeling has not been explored. We used an in vitro model of uremia-induced calcification of human aorta smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) to study the expression of 92 ion channel subunit genes. Uremic serum-induced extensive remodeling of ion channel expression consistent with loss of excitability but different from the one previously associated with transition from contractile to proliferative phenotypes. Among the ion channels tested, we found increased abundance and activity of voltage-dependent K+ channel Kv1.3. Enhanced Kv1.3 expression was also detected in aorta from a mouse model of CKD. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation of Kv1.3 decreased the amount of calcium phosphate deposition induced by uremia, supporting an important role for this channel on uremia-induced VSMC calcification.
A Slc25a46 Mouse Model Simulating Age-Associated Motor Deficit, Redox Imbalance, and Mitochondria Dysfunction
Authors: Gao Li , Wang Min , Liao Linfeng , Gou Na , Xu Piao , Ren Zhengyu , Yao Maojin , Yuan Erdong , Yang Xinquan , Ren Jiaoyan
Published: December 2020

The mitochondrial theory of aging postulates that accumulation of mtDNA mutations and mitochondrial dysfunction are responsible for producing aging phenotypes. To more comprehensively explore the complex relationship between aging and mitochondria dysfunction, we have developed a mouse model with Slc25a46 knockout, a nuclear gene described as encoding mitochondrial carriers, by CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to mimic some typical aging phenotypes in human. Slc25a46−/− mice present segmental premature aging phenotypes characterized by shortened life span of no more than 2 months, obviously defective motor ability, gastrocnemius muscle atrophy, and imbalance of redox level in brain and liver. The underlying mechanism for multiple organ disorder may attribute to mitochondrial dysfunction, which is mainly manifested in the damaged mitochondrial structure (eg, vacuolar structure, irregular swelling, and disorganized cristae) and an age-associated decrease in respiratory chain enzyme (mainly complex I and IV) activity. In summary, our study suggests that the Slc25a46−/− mouse is a valid animal model for segmental aging-related pathologies studies based on mitochondrial theory, generating a new platform to both understand mechanisms between aging and mitochondria dysfunction as well as to design mitochondria-based therapeutic strategies to improve mitochondrial quality, and thereby the overall healthspan.
Accelerating full waveform inversion through Adaptive Gradient Optimization methods and Dynamic Simultaneous Sources
Authors: Bernal-Romero Marcos , Iturrarán-Viveros Ursula
Published: December 2020

Full-Waveform Inversion (FWI) is a procedure based on the minimization of a misfit (or cost) function applied to the difference between synthetic waveforms and real seismic traces that derives high-resolution velocity models. This is achieved through the iterative adjustment of the velocity model and/or some other physical parameters of the Earth’s subsurface, which generally implies large computational effort. In order to minimize this cost function we explore the use of Adaptive Gradient Optimization (AGO), a variant of Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD) methods, combining them with a dynamic simultaneous sources strategy that allow us to reduce the computational cost involved in this process. AGO methods are computationally efficient, have little memory requirements and have the capability of adapting the step-length according to the optimization process’ evolution. Since a precise calibration of the step-length is needed to ensure efficiency, the AGOs are well-suited for this task because they are able to adapt the step-length according to the optimization’s development. In this work, we propose a simple non-linear relationship that allows an adjustment of the step-length with respect to the frequencies used in the multiscale FWI, avoiding the line-search strategy’s high computational burden. Additionally, the application of this new step-length rule into the AGO methods with a dynamic simultaneous sources strategy, allow us to concurrently accelerate and significantly improve the FWI’s numerical performance and results. We compare the performance and final results of seven AGO methods, using two different FWI misfit functionals (based on L1 and L2 norms) applied to estimate the final velocity models of two benchmark acoustic models: the Marmousi and the Canadian overthrust BP velocity models.
Modified ultrafiltration reduces postoperative blood loss and transfusions in adult cardiac surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Low Zhao Kai , Gao Fei , Sin Kenny Yoong Kong , Yap Kok Hooi
Published: December 2020

OBJECTIVES

Cardiopulmonary bypass in cardiac surgery has been associated with several deleterious effects including haemodilution and systemic inflammation. Modified ultrafiltration (MUF) has been well established in paediatric cardiac surgery in counteracting postperfusion syndrome. However, MUF is less commonly used in adult cardiac surgery. In this meta-analysis, we compared clinical outcomes in adult patients who underwent cardiopulmonary bypass with and without MUF.

METHODS

Electronic searches were performed using Pubmed, Ovid Medline, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library until April 2020. Selection criteria were randomized studies of adult cardiac surgery patients comparing MUF versus no MUF. Primary outcomes were postoperative mortality, haematocrit, blood transfusion, chest tube drainage, duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay and duration of mechanical ventilation.

RESULTS

Thirteen randomized controlled trials were included, comprising 626 patients in the MUF group, and 610 patients in the control (no-MUF) group. There was a significantly improved postoperative haematocrit [mean difference 2.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–4.73, P = 0.009], lower chest tube drainage (mean difference −105 ml, 95% CI −202 to −7 ml, P = 0.032), lower postoperative blood transfusion rate (mean difference −0.73 units, 95% CI −0.98 to −0.47 units, P < 0.0001) and shorter duration of ICU stay (mean difference −0.13 days, 95% CI −0.27 to −0.00 days, P = 0.048) in the MUF group. There was no difference in ventilation time (mean difference −0.47 h, 95% CI −2.05 to 1.12 h, P = 0.56) or mortality rates (odds ratio 0.62, 95% CI 0.28–1.33, P = 0.22). There were no reported complications associated with MUF.

CONCLUSIONS

MUF is a safe and feasible option in adult cardiac patients, with significant benefits including improved postoperative haematocrit, as well as reduced postoperative chest tube bleeding, transfusion requirements and duration of ICU stay.
Measures used to assess the burden of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli infections in humans: a scoping review
Authors: McDonald Kathryn L , Garland Sarah , Carson Carolee A , Gibbens Kimberly , Parmley E Jane , Finley Rita , MacKinnon Melissa C
Published: December 2020

Background

ESBL-producing bacteria pose a serious challenge to both clinical care and public health. There is no standard measure of the burden of illness (BOI) of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-EC) in the published literature, indicating a need to synthesize available BOI data to provide an overall understanding of the impact of ESBL-EC infections on human health.

Objectives

To summarize the characteristics of BOI reporting in the ESBL-EC literature to (i) describe how BOI associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is measured and reported; (ii) summarize differences in other aspects of reporting between studies; and (iii) highlight the common themes in research objectives and their relation to ESBL-EC BOI.

Methods and results

Two literature searches, run in 2013 and 2018, were conducted to capture published studies evaluating the BOI associated with ESBL-EC infections in humans. These searches identified 1723 potentially relevant titles and abstracts. After relevance screening of titles and abstracts and review of full texts, 27 studies were included for qualitative data synthesis. This review identified variability in the reporting and use of BOI measures, study characteristics, definitions and laboratory methods for identifying ESBL-EC infections.

Conclusions

Decision makers often require BOI data to make science-based decisions for the implementation of surveillance activities or risk reduction policies. Similarly, AMR BOI measures are important components of risk analyses and economic evaluations of AMR. This review highlights many limitations to current ESBL-EC BOI reporting, which, if improved upon, will ensure data accessibility and usefulness for ESBL-EC BOI researchers, decision makers and clinicians.
A rare case of peritoneal Xanthogranuloma in a 23-year-old woman
Authors: Kudra Danial Aghyad , Klaho Abdulqader , Abou Redn Abdulaziz , Al-Najjari Zeina , Tarabishi Joudi , Chabarek Sara , Sankari Tarabishi Ahmad , Alhaj Ahmad
Published: December 2020

Xanthogranuloma is a very rare tumor when it comes to abdomen. Macroscopically, it is characterized by formation of multiple, golden yellow or bright yellow nodules, whereas histologically, the lesion is predominantly composed of foamy cells mixed with acute and chronic inflammatory cells. We report a case of 23-year-old woman presented to the hospital with chronic constipation, colic abdominal pain and recurrent vomiting. The patient had a history of sigmoid colon volvulus. Radiological investigations showed sigmoid colon elongation, multi-density formations in the left iliac region and pelvis and a small amount of pelvic fluid. Laparoscopy followed by excisional biopsy of the formations were made, and pathological examination showed Xanthogranuloma with no ovarian parenchyma. Hence, Xanthogranuloma should be considered as a differential diagnosis for idiopathic abdominal pain. Laparoscopy and excisional biopsy are suggested procedures when short-term therapy is concerned.
Resection of a giant mediastinal atypical lipomatous tumor involving the esophagus
Authors: Suzuki Takaya , Sato Taku , Hasumi Tohru
Published: December 2020

Liposarcoma is one of the common soft tissue tumors but barely arises from the mediastinum. Complete surgical resection with a negative surgical margin is required for the treatment; however, mediastinal liposarcomas tend to be large due to its slow-growing nature. A 57-year-old man was referred to us for having an abnormal mediastinal shadow in a chest X-ray. Computed tomography scanning revealed a giant posterior mediastinal tumor, completely involving the esophagus. Because of the unusual size and location of the tumor, we took a bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic approach. First, the soft lipomatous compartment of the tumor was dissected from the esophagus and the descending aorta via the left thoracic cavity complete thoracoscopic procedure. Then, the patient was placed in the left lateral position, and the solid part of the tumor was completely resected using 13 cm of right-side thoracotomy. There was no complication or local recurrence in the first 26 months of follow-up.
Artemisinin resistance surveillance in African Plasmodium falciparum isolates from imported malaria cases to Italy
Authors: L'Episcopia Mariangela , Bartoli Tommaso Ascoli , Corpolongo Angela , Mariano Andrea , D’Abramo Alessandra , Vulcano Antonella , Paglia Maria G , Perrotti Edvige , Menegon Michela , Nicastri Emanuele , Severini Carlo
Published: December 2020

Background

Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria is a significant public health problem in returning travellers, and artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) remains the first choice for treatment. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the P. falciparum kelch 13 (Pfk13) gene have been associated with artemisinin (ART) resistance. Moreover, the increase in the P. falciparum plasmepsin 2 (Pfpm2) gene copy number was shown to be linked with reduced susceptibility of P. falciparum to piperaquine (PPQ), a partner drug in an ACT regimen. Active molecular surveillance for imported drug-resistant malaria parasites is a pivotal activity to provide adequate chemoprophylaxis and treatment guidelines.

Methods

A retrospective study to review imported P. falciparum malaria in patients admitted to Spallanzani Institute between 2014 and 2015 was conducted. Information collected included clinic and epidemiological characteristics such as age, gender, country of origin, time since arrival to our country, travel history. All P.falciparum isolates were analysed for SNPs in the Pfk13 gene and for copy number variations in the Pfpm2 gene.

Results

P. falciparum malaria was identified in 54 travellers. The mean age was 37 years, 44 were males. All cases were imported from non-EU countries. In the Pfk13 gene two mutations (R561R and F673L) were detected. Six P. falciparum isolates carried two copies of Pfpm2 gene, and one three copies, representing ≈16% of the analysed isolates.

Conclusions

None of the SNPs known to be associated with ART resistance were detected in the examined parasites. Our results provide evidence that Pfpm2 duplications (associated with piperaquine resistance) occur in Africa, emphasizing the necessity to better decode the genetic background associated with PPQ resistance. Further epidemiological investigations in Pfpm2 amplification along with mutations in the Pfk13 gene will be useful for developing and updating anti-malarial guidance in travellers.
Research on climate change and migration where are we and where are we going?
Authors: Ferris Elizabeth
Published: December 2020

Today the issue of climate change-induced mobility—whether displacement, migration, or relocation—is receiving increased interest from policy-makers, academics, and the general public. Many are turning to the academic community for answers to basic questions (how many people are expected to move? when? where?) and for directions for future policies (what measures can support people to remain in their communities? If people have to move, how can the disruption be minimized—for those moving and for the affected communities?). While there is a growing body of literature on the issue, the academic community writ large is presently unable to provide consistent comprehensive evidence or guidance on these issues. Most obviously, there is no consensus about what terminology to use—climate change refugee? Environmental migrant? [e.g. Dun and Gemenne 2008. ‘Defining Environmental Migration’, Forced Migration Review, 31: 10–11]. Nor is there consensus on how many people are expected to move; different research projects use different time frames (2030, 2050, 2100, etc.), are based on different assumptions, and (not surprisingly) come up with different estimates, ranging from 50 million to 1 billion migrants associated with the effects of climate change during this century [e.g. Stern, N. (2006) ‘Stern review on the economics of climate change. Executive Summary’. London: HM Treasury. Baird 2007. Human Tide: The Real Migration Crisis: A Christian Aid Report. London: Christian Aid; UN Development Programme (UNDP) (2007/2008). Human Development Report: Fighting Climate Change, Human Solidarity in a Divided World; Kolmannskog 2009, Climate Change, Disaster, Displacement and Migration: Initial Evidence from Africa. New Issues in Refuge Research (Research Paper No. 180). Geneva: UNHCR; Warner 2009. Global Environmental Change and Migration: Governance Challenges. Global Environmental Change].
The nature of giant clumps in high-z discs: a deep-learning comparison of simulations and observations
Authors: Ginzburg Omri , Huertas-Company Marc , Dekel Avishai , Mandelker Nir , Snyder Gregory , Ceverino Daniel , Primack Joel
Published: December 2020

We use deep learning to explore the nature of observed giant clumps in high-redshift disc galaxies, based on their identification and classification in cosmological simulations. Simulated clumps are detected using the 3D gas and stellar densities in the VELA zoom-in cosmological simulation suite, with ${\sim}25\ \rm {pc}$ maximum resolution, targeting main-sequence galaxies at 1 < z < 3. The clumps are classified as long-lived clumps (LLCs) or short-lived clumps (SLCs) based on their longevity in the simulations. We then train neural networks to detect and classify the simulated clumps in mock, multicolour, dusty, and noisy HST-like images. The clumps are detected using an encoder–decoder convolutional neural network (CNN), and are classified according to their longevity using a vanilla CNN. Tests using the simulations show our detector and classifier to be ${\sim}80{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ complete and ${\sim}80{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ pure for clumps more massive than ∼107.5 M⊙. When applied to observed galaxies in the CANDELS/GOODS S+N fields, we find both types of clumps to appear in similar abundances in the simulations and the observations. LLCs are, on average, more massive than SLCs by ∼0.5 dex, and they dominate the clump population above Mc ≳ 107.6 M⊙. LLCs tend to be found closer to the galactic centre, indicating clump migration to the centre or preferential formation at smaller radii. The LLCs are found to reside in high-mass galaxies, indicating better clump survivability under supernova feedback there, due to clumps being more massive in these galaxies. We find the clump masses and radial positions in the simulations and the observations to agree within a factor of 2.
EXTH-33. VALPROIC ACID ENHANCES THE ANTI-PROLIFERATIVE EFFECT OF TUMOR-TREATING FIELDS ON PATIENT-DERIVED GLIOSARCOMA CELLS IN VITRO
Authors: Michelhaugh Sharon , Mittal Sandeep
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Valproic acid (VPA) is an anti-epileptic drug often prescribed for glioma-associated seizures. VPA is also investigated as a potential anti-proliferative cancer treatment due to its histone deacetylase inhibitor activity. Tumor-treating fields (TTFields) are an FDA-approved therapy that reduce proliferation of tumor cells by interfering with microtubule formation during mitosis. In this study, we determined whether the combination of VPA with TTFields in comparison to each treatment alone would alter proliferation or cytotoxicity in patient-derived gliosarcoma cells.

METHODS

Gliosarcoma cells were grown in DMEM/F12 media with 10% fetal bovine serum and gentamicin. Prior to TTFields application and VPA incubation, cells were plated on plastic coverslips (1×104cells/coverslip) and incubated overnight. TTFields were applied to cells at 200 kHz optimal frequency (field intensity of ~1.6 V/cm) for 14 days and/or incubated with VPA at concentrations of 0, 0.25, 0.5, or 1mM. Proliferation was assessed by quantifying total RNA from each coverslip (n=3–4/group). Cytotoxicity was assessed by measuring lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) released into the media (n=8/group). Groups were compared by t-tests.

RESULTS

RNA yields from cells treated with only VPA were unchanged compared to control. TTFields treatment alone reduced RNA yield from 14.85±4.23 to 8.92±1.39 µg (mean± SD; P< 0.05). The addition of 1mM VPA to TTFields further reduced RNA yield to 5.48±1.5 µg (P< 0.03), although VPA alone had no effect. Additionally, 1mM VPA increased media LDH from 4.00±1.3 to 6.68±1.7 AU (mean± SD; P< 0.01), while TTFields alone also increased media LDH to 5.67±0.99 AU (P< 0.02). Media LDH levels due to combined TTFields and 1mM VPA treatment was 5.86±1.2 AU (not statistically different from either alone).

CONCLUSIONS

In patient-derived gliosarcoma cells, TTFields and VPA individually elicited modest cytotoxicity. However, TTFields plus VPA combination treatment reduced proliferation more than TTFields alone, though VPA treatment alone did not induce an anti-proliferative effect.
First in Man Pilot Feasibility Study in Extracranial Carotid Robotic-Assisted Endovascular Intervention
Authors: Desai Virendra R , Lee Jonathan J , Sample Trevis , Kleiman Neal S , Lumsden Alan , Britz Gavin W
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Robotic-assistance in endovascular intervention represents a nascent yet promising innovation.

OBJECTIVE

To present the first human experience utilizing robotic-assisted angiography in the extracranial carotid circulation.

METHODS

Between March 2019 and September 2019, patients with extracranial carotid circulation pathology presenting to Houston Methodist Hospital were enrolled.

RESULTS

A total of 6 patients met inclusion criteria: 5 underwent diagnostic angiography only with robotic-assisted catheter manipulation, while 1 underwent both diagnostic followed by delayed therapeutic intervention. Mean age was 51 +/− 17.5 yr. Mean anesthesia time was 158.7 +/− 37.9 min, mean fluoroscopic time was 22.0 +/− 7.3 min, and mean radiation dose was 815.0 +/− 517.0 mGy. There were no technical complications and no clinical deficits postprocedure. None of the cases required conversion to manual neurovascular intervention (NVI).

CONCLUSION

Incorporating robotic technology in NVI can enhance procedural technique and diminish occupational hazards. Its application in the coronary and peripheral vascular settings has established safety and efficacy, but in the neurovascular setting, this has yet to be demonstrated. This study presents the first in human feasibility experience of robotic-assisted NVI in the extracranial carotid circulation.
MGMT-Positive vs MGMT-Negative Patients With Glioblastoma: Identification of Prognostic Factors and Resection Threshold
Authors: Katsigiannis Sotirios , Grau Stefan , Krischek Boris , Er Kadir , Pintea Bogdan , Goldbrunner Roland , Stavrinou Pantelis
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

The importance of the O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status as a predictive factor for the response to chemotherapy with temozolomide is well established. Its significance though at stratifying glioblastoma (GBM) patients in regard to their prognostic factors and the impact of surgical approach on them has not been identified.

OBJECTIVE

To reveal possible differences in the prognostic factors and the impact of surgery between GBM patients stratified according to their MGMT status.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed 186 patients with a newly diagnosed primary supratentorial GBM treated with surgical resection followed by standard radiation and chemotherapy. A prospective quantitative volumetric analysis of tumor characteristics identified on magnetic resonance imaging was performed.

RESULTS

For the 109 patients with unmethylated MGMT promoter, extent of resection (EOR) represented independent predictor of survival, whereas residual tumor volume (RTV), Karnofsky Performance Score, and age were found to be independent prognostic factors of survival for the 77 patients with methylated MGMT promoter. For the group of patients with unmethylated and the group with methylated MGMT promoter, an EOR threshold of 70% and 98% and an RTV threshold of 1.5 and 1 cm3 were identified, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The selection of patients according to the MGMT promoter methylation status resulted in different prognostic factors and different resection thresholds for each patient population. A survival benefit seen from 70% EOR threshold in patients with MGMT unmethylated GBM supports the doctrine of maximum safe resection rather than the “all-or-nothing” approach.
A Scoping Review of Burnout in Neurosurgery
Authors: Mackel Charles E , Nelton Emmalin B , Reynolds Renée M , Fox W Christopher , Spiotta Alejandro M , Stippler Martina
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Burnout is a negative workplace syndrome of emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and perceived professional inefficacy that risks the patient-provider relationship, patient care, and physician well-being.

OBJECTIVE

To assimilate the neurosurgical burnout literature in order to classify burnout among domestic and international neurosurgeons and trainees, identify contributory factors, and appraise the impact of wellness programs.

METHODS

A scoping review identified the available literature, which was reviewed for key factors related to burnout among neurosurgeons. Two researchers queried PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and Web of Science for articles on burnout in neurosurgery and reduced 1610 results to 32 articles.

RESULTS

A total of 32 studies examined burnout in neurosurgery. A total of 26 studies examined prevalence and 8 studies detailed impact of wellness programs. All were published after 2011. Burnout prevalence was measured mostly through the Maslach Burnout Inventory (n = 21). In 4 studies, participants defined their own understanding of “burnout.” Domestically, burnout prevalence was 11.2% to 67% among residents and 15% to 57% among attendings. Among trainees, poor operative experience, poor faculty relationships, and social stressors were burnout risks but not age, sex, or marital status. Among attendings, the literature identified financial or legal concerns, lack of intellectual stimulation, and poor work-life balance as risks. The impact of wellness programs on trainees is unclear but group exercises may offer the most benefit.

CONCLUSION

Noticeable methodological differences in studies on trainee and attending burnout contribute to a wide range of neurosurgery burnout estimates and yield significant knowledge gaps. Environment may have greater impact on trainee burnout than demographics. Wellness programs should emphasize solidarity.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Aging: Multimorbidity in Older People With HIV in One Nonurban Southeastern Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Clinic
Authors: Arant Elizabeth C , Harding Ceshae , Geba Maria , Targonski Paul V , McManus Kathleen A
Published: December 2020

Background

Age-related chronic conditions are becoming more concerning for people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH). We aimed to identify characteristics associated with multimorbidity and evaluate for association between multimorbidity and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) outcomes.

Methods

Cohorts included PWH aged 45–89 with ≥1 medical visit at one Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) Southeastern HIV clinic in 2006 (Cohort 1) or 2016 (Cohort 2). Multimorbidity was defined as ≥2 chronic diseases. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess for associations between characteristics and multimorbidity and between multimorbidity and HIV outcomes.

Results

Multimorbidity increased from Cohort 1 (n = 149) to Cohort 2 (n = 323) (18.8% vs 29.7%, P < .001). Private insurance was associated with less multimorbidity than Medicare (Cohort 1: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.02–0.63; Cohort 2: aOR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.27–1.00). In Cohort 2, multimorbidity was associated with female gender (aOR, 2.57; 95% CI, 1.22–5.58). In Cohort 1, black participants were less likely to be engaged in care compared with non-black participants (aOR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.61–0.87). In Cohort 2, participants with rural residences were more likely to be engaged in care compared with those with urban residences (aOR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.10–1.38). Multimorbidity was not associated with differences in HIV outcomes.

Conclusions

Although PWH have access to RWHAP HIV care, PWH with private insurance had lower rates of multimorbidity, which may reflect better access to preventative non-HIV care. In 2016, multimorbidity was higher for women. The RWHAP and RWHAP Part D could invest in addressing these disparities related to insurance and gender.
Reliability and Validity of Physical Tools and Measurement Methods to Quantify Hand Swelling: A Systematic Review
Authors: Llanos Catalina , Gan Ellen Yanxiang , Chen Jophie , Lee Mi-Joung , Kilbreath Sharon L , Dylke Elizabeth S
Published: December 2020

Objective

Hand swelling may result from injury or trauma. Various physical assessment tools and measurement methods can be used to quantify the volume or size of the hand or fingers; however, the reliability and validity of each tool and measurement method have not been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of physical assessment tools and methods used to quantify hand and finger volume orsize.

Methods

MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched using key terms related to swelling, edema, volume, size, hand, measures, reliability, and validity. Cross-sectional or longitudinal studies that assessed reliability and/or validity of physical assessment tools or measurement methods to quantify hand swelling were included. Two examiners independently extracted data from the included articles and appraised the articles’ quality using the Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments methodology. Data extracted from studies analyzing reliability and validity were grouped by type of assessment tool and measurement method.

Results

Five physical assessment tools used for quantification of hand swelling were evaluated, including tape measure, water volumeter, bioimpedance spectroscopy, ring gauge, 3-dimensional techniques. All assessment tools had good to excellent reliability (ICC = 0.74 − 0.99), and moderate to high validity (Pearson coefficient = 0.58 − 0.99), for quantification of the volume or size of the hand or fingers.

Conclusion

All measurement methods with these tools had good to excellent reliability and moderate to high validity. The evidence underpinning the figure-of-eight technique, which uses a tape measure, was the highest. Because these physical assessment tools and measurement methods assess different aspects and regions of the hand, which one is selected depends on the region of interest for assessment and the availability of tools.

Impact

Reliable tools and measurement methods are available to measure the size or volume of the hand and fingers, either together or separately. The best tool will depend on the aim of assessment and tool availability.

Lay Summary

Hand swelling can occur with injuries, burns, or lymphedema. This review shows that tools are available to accurately measure swelling in any part of thehand.
A Theory of Narrow Thinking
Authors: Lian Chen
Published: December 2020

Unlike in standard models, decision makers often narrowly bracket and make each decision in isolation. I develop a new approach, which I term narrow thinking, to systematically model narrow bracketing. The definition of narrow thinking is that different decisions are based on different, non-nested, information. As a result, the narrow thinker makes each decision with imperfect knowledge of other decisions and faces difficulties coordinating her multiple decisions. The narrow thinker effectively cares less about her other decisions when making each decision. The main application of narrow thinking is to provide a smooth model of mental accounting without requiring the decision maker to have explicit budgets. My approach generates unique predictions about how the degree of mental accounting depends on expenditure shares and cognitive limitations. It also illustrates how narrow bracketing and mental accounting can be explained by the same underlying friction.