bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of honeycomb structure parameters on the mechanical properties of ZTAp/HCCI composites
Authors: Zhang Jiayi , Sui Yudong , Jiang Yehua , Zhou Mojin
Published: May 2022

Zirconia toughened alumina particles (ZTAp)/high chromium cast iron (HCCI) matrix honeycomb composites were successfully prepared by a non-pressure infiltration casting process. This paper systematically investigates the effect of pore size (6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm) on the compression resistance of honeycomb structure under the same wall thickness condition. Through the simulation software Ansys Workbench and compression performance test, it was found that the compression performance tends to increase gradually with the increase of the honeycomb pore size, and the optimal compression resistance is reached when the pore size is 12 mm. This optimum performance is attributed to the fact that the reinforcement mechanism of the composite depends not only on the load sharing of the reinforcing particles, but also on the strength of the matrix.
Kinetic study on the effect of iron on the grain growth of rutile-type TiO2 under in situ conditions
Authors: Xue Xin , Luo Xian , Long Yongfu , Zhang Lu , Yin Yue , Xu Benjun
Published: May 2022

There have been many studies on the growth kinetics of titanium dioxide and doped titanium dioxide. However, most calculated the grain size after isothermal treatment and cooling to room temperature; thus, the real grain size of titanium dioxide at the real-time temperature during heat treatment could not be obtained. This study thus aimed to obtain accurate grain information during the heat treatment process. In this study, titanium oxysulfate (TiOSO4) and ferric chloride (FeCl3·6H2O) were used to hydrolyze and precipitate TiO2 precursors containing impurity iron. Then, the sample was subjected to high-temperature in situ x-ray diffraction. Using the Williamson–Hall mapping method to process the x-ray diffraction information, the grain size could be used to characterize changes in the grain size, and the change law of TiO2 during the heat treatment process was studied. Furthermore, the effect of Fe doping on the growth of TiO2 crystals was examined through the crystal growth kinetics. The results revealed that when the Fe doping amount reached a certain level, it affected the growth mechanism of the rutile type titanium dioxide grains, thereby causing a change in the growth order. Specifically, an increase in the Fe doping amount increased the growth activation energy; that is, it inhibited the growth of rutile-type titanium dioxide grains.
Is the Hénon map able to predict the interaction dynamics between the knee and hip joints emerged during sit-to-stand movement?
Authors: Torbati Armin Hakkak Moghadam , Jami Shahab , Kobravi Hamid Reza
Published: May 2022

In this study, the performance of a two-dimensional Hénon map in predicting the interactive dynamics of the knee and hip joints emerging during a normative sit-to-stand movement was evaluated. The instantaneous values of the knee and hip joints were the model inputs, and the next values of the knee and hip joints were predicted by the Hénon map. The map predicted the desired relative behavior of the joints, showing synergetic coordination between the joints. The experimental data were recorded from four healthy participants and used to identify the Hénon map via a genetic algorithm. Model performance was quantitatively assessed by computing the calculated prediction error and analyzing the behavioral dynamics of the state spaces reconstructed via the captured kinematic data. According to the results, there was an obvious similarity between the dynamics of the state space trajectories of the identified model and those of the recorded data, not only in terms of stretching and folding dynamics, but also concerning generalized synchrony. The acceptable performance of the proposed modeling solution can also be demonstrated through these results.
The size of Betti tables of edge ideals arising from bipartite graphs
Authors: Erey Nursel , Hibi Takayuki
Published: May 2022

Let

pd
⁡
(
I
(
G
)
)

\operatorname {pd}(I(G))

and

reg
⁡
(
I
(
G
)
)

\operatorname {reg}(I(G))

respectively denote the projective dimension and the regularity of the edge ideal

I
(
G
)

I(G)

of a graph

G
G

. For any positive integer

n
n

, we determine all pairs

(
pd
⁡
(
I
(
G
)
)
,

reg
⁡
(
I
(
G
)
)
)

(\operatorname {pd}(I(G)),\, \operatorname {reg}(I(G)))

as

G
G

ranges over all connected bipartite graphs on

n
n

vertices.
Errant Humanity: Writing the Geopolitics of Migration
Authors: Parikh Crystal
Published: May 2022

This essay reviews three books—Lyndsey Stonebridge’s Placeless People: Writing, Rights, and Refugees (2018), Seyla Benhabib’s Exile, Statelessness, and Migration: Playing Chess with History from Hannah Arendt to Isaiah Berlin (2018), and the essay collection, edited by JoEllen DeLucia and Juliet Shields, Migration and Modernities: The State of Being Stateless, 1750–1850 (2019). Examples of a growing concern in the humanities and cultural studies with “the geopolitics of migration,” these books share an interest as to how the transposition of the sovereign state across the globe not only regularizes citizenship, territoriality, and rights discourses, but also makes the stateless—and the “rightlessness” marking those who are stateless—a permanent, constitutive feature of global modernity. Engaging political theory as well as political history, they consider exiles and refugees not as incidental to the political and legal institutions of modernity, but as critically illuminating of them. In particular, this review essay focuses on how, in the authors’ accounts, varied conceptions of the relations among law, politics, cultural difference, and social formations shape the possibility of political thinking.
Computational methods to assist in the discovery of pharmacological chaperones for rare diseases
Authors: Scafuri Bernardina , Verdino Anna , D'Arminio Nancy , Marabotti Anna
Published: May 2022

Pharmacological chaperones are chemical compounds able to bind proteins and stabilize them against denaturation and following degradation. Some pharmacological chaperones have been approved, or are under investigation, for the treatment of rare inborn errors of metabolism, caused by genetic mutations that often can destabilize the structure of the wild-type proteins expressed by that gene. Given that, for rare diseases, there is a general lack of pharmacological treatments, many expectations are poured out on this type of compounds. However, their discovery is not straightforward. In this review, we would like to focus on the computational methods that can assist and accelerate the search for these compounds, showing also examples in which these methods were successfully applied for the discovery of promising molecules belonging to this new category of pharmacologically active compounds.
NeoSplice: a bioinformatics method for prediction of splice variant neoantigens
Authors: Chai Shengjie , Smith Christof C , Kochar Tavleen K , Hunsucker Sally A , Beck Wolfgang , Olsen Kelly S , Vensko Steven , Glish Gary L , Armistead Paul M , Prins Jan F , Vincent Benjamin G
Published: May 2022

Motivation

Splice variant neoantigens are a potential source of tumor-specific antigen (TSA) that are shared between patients in a variety of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia. Current tools for genomic prediction of splice variant neoantigens demonstrate promise. However, many tools have not been well validated with simulated and/or wet lab approaches, with no studies published that have presented a targeted immunopeptidome mass spectrometry approach designed specifically for identification of predicted splice variant neoantigens.

Results

In this study, we describe NeoSplice, a novel computational method for splice variant neoantigen prediction based on (i) prediction of tumor-specific k-mers from RNA-seq data, (ii) alignment of differentially expressed k-mers to the splice graph and (iii) inference of the variant transcript with MHC binding prediction. NeoSplice demonstrates high sensitivity and precision (>80% on average across all splice variant classes) through in silico simulated RNA-seq data. Through mass spectrometry analysis of the immunopeptidome of the K562.A2 cell line compared against a synthetic peptide reference of predicted splice variant neoantigens, we validated 4 of 37 predicted antigens corresponding to 3 of 17 unique splice junctions. Lastly, we provide a comparison of NeoSplice against other splice variant prediction tools described in the literature. NeoSplice provides a well-validated platform for prediction of TSA vaccine targets for future cancer antigen vaccine studies to evaluate the clinical efficacy of splice variant neoantigens.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/Benjamin-Vincent-Lab/NeoSplice

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics Advances online.
Biotic Indicators for Ecological State Change in Amazonian Floodplains
Authors: Correa Sandra Bibiana , van der Sleen Peter , Siddiqui Sharmin F , Bogotá-Gregory Juan David , Arantes Caroline C , Barnett Adrian A , Couto Thiago B A , Goulding Michael , Anderson Elizabeth P
Published: May 2022

Riverine floodplains are biologically diverse and productive ecosystems. Although tropical floodplains remain relatively conserved and ecologically functional compared to those at higher latitudes, they face accelerated hydropower development, climate change, and deforestation. Alterations to the flood pulse could act synergistically with other drivers of change to promote profound ecological state change at a large spatial scale. State change occurs when an ecosystem reaches a critical threshold or tipping point, which leads to an alternative qualitative state for the ecosystem. Visualizing an alternative state for Amazonian floodplains is not straightforward. Yet, it is critical to recognize that changes to the flood pulse could push tropical floodplain ecosystems over a tipping point with cascading adverse effects on biodiversity and ecosystem services. We characterize the Amazonian flood pulse regime, summarize evidence of flood pulse change, assess potential ecological repercussions, and provide a monitoring framework for tracking flood pulse change and detecting biotic responses.
Quantifying bias in psychological and physical health in the UK Biobank imaging sub-sample
Authors: Lyall Donald M. , Quinn Terry , Lyall Laura M. , Ward Joey , Anderson Jana J. , Smith Daniel J. , Stewart William , Strawbridge Rona J. , Bailey Mark E. S. , Cullen Breda
Published: May 2022

UK Biobank is a prospective cohort study of around half-a-million general population participants, recruited between 2006 and 2010, with baseline studies at recruitment and multiple assessments since. From 2014 to date, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been pursued in a participant sub-sample, with the aim to scan around n = 100k. This sub-sample is studied widely and therefore understanding its relative characteristics is important for future reports. We aimed to quantify psychological and physical health in the UK Biobank imaging sub-sample, compared with the rest of the cohort. We used t-tests and χ2 for continuous/categorical variables, respectively, to estimate average differences on a range of cognitive, mental and physical health phenotypes. We contrasted baseline values of participants who attended imaging (versus had not), and compared their values at the imaging visit versus baseline values of participants who were not scanned. We also tested the hypothesis that the associations of established risk factors with worse cognition would be underestimated in the (hypothesized) healthier imaging group compared with the full cohort. We tested these interactions using linear regression models. On a range of cognitive, mental health, cardiometabolic, inflammatory and neurological phenotypes, we found that 47 920 participants who were scanned by January 2021 showed consistent statistically significant ‘healthy’ bias compared with the ∼450 000 who were not scanned. These effect sizes were small to moderate based on Cohen’s d/Cramer’s V metrics (range = 0.02 to −0.21 for Townsend, the largest effect size). We found evidence of interaction, where stratified analysis demonstrated that associations of established cognitive risk factors were smaller in the imaging sub-sample compared with the full cohort. Of the ∼100 000 participants who ultimately will undergo MRI assessment within UK Biobank, the first ∼50 000 showed some ‘healthy’ bias on a range of metrics at baseline. Those differences largely remained at the subsequent (first) imaging visit, and we provide evidence that testing associations in the imaging sub-sample alone could lead to potential underestimation of exposure/outcome estimates.
Adaptive Potential of Epigenetic Switching During Adaptation to Fluctuating Environments
Authors: Stajic Dragan , Bank Claudia , Gordo Isabel
Published: May 2022

Epigenetic regulation of gene expression allows for the emergence of distinct phenotypic states within the clonal population. Due to the instability of epigenetic inheritance, these phenotypes can intergenerationally switch between states in a stochastic manner. Theoretical studies of evolutionary dynamics predict that the phenotypic heterogeneity enabled by this rapid epigenetic switching between gene expression states would be favored under fluctuating environmental conditions, whereas genetic mutations, as a form of stable inheritance system, would be favored under a stable environment. To test this prediction, we engineered switcher and non-switcher yeast strains, in which the uracil biosynthesis gene URA3 is either continually expressed or switched on and off at two different rates (slow and fast switchers). Competitions between clones with an epigenetically controlled URA3 and clones without switching ability (SIR3 knockout) show that the switchers are favored in fluctuating environments. This occurs in conditions where the environments fluctuate at similar rates to the rate of switching. However, in stable environments, but also in environments with fluctuation frequency higher than the rate of switching, we observed that genetic changes dominated. Remarkably, epigenetic clones with a high, but not with a low, rate of switching can coexist with non-switchers even in a constant environment. Our study offers an experimental proof of concept that helps defining conditions of environmental fluctuation under which epigenetic switching provides an advantage.
Not Too Old for TikTok: How Older Adults Are Reframing Aging
Authors: Ng Reuben , Indran Nicole
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives

Although reputed for being the virtual playground of teenagers, TikTok has since made its way to older adults, some of whom have become content creators with millions of followers. Despite their immense sway over audiences, as well as their potential to reconfigure socially constructed notions of aging, these older TikTok personalities have been given scant attention in gerontological literature. We fill this gap by exploring how older adults use TikTok to engage in discourses on old age.

Research Design and Methods

We compiled the most viewed videos of users aged 60 and older with at least 100,000 followers, generating 1,382 videos with over 3.5 billion views. Videos that did not feature older adults engaging in discourses on aging were excluded, resulting in 348 videos for content analysis. Both inductive and deductive approaches guided the qualitative analysis.

Results

Three themes emerged: Nearly 3 in 4 videos featured older adults “Defying Age Stereotypes” (71%; Theme 1), 18% featured them “Making Light of Age-Related Vulnerabilities” (Theme 2), and 11% involved older adults “Calling out Ageism” (Theme 3).

Discussion and Implications

This is the first known study exploring how older adults consciously engage in discourses of aging through their participation on TikTok. Our findings highlight the potential for older adults to be put at the vanguard of a movement aimed at challenging socially constructed notions of old age.
Temperature and Season Influence Phagocytosis by B1 Lymphocytes in the Mojave Desert Tortoise
Authors: Slama Summer L , Williams Grace S , Painter Mariah N , Sheedy Maxwell D , Sandmeier Franziska C
Published: May 2022

Synopsis

Lymphocytes are usually interpreted as functioning in adaptive immunity despite evidence that large proportions of these cells (B1 lymphocytes) have innate immune functions, including phagocytosis, in the peripheral blood of ectothermic vertebrates. We used a recently optimized assay to assess environmental influences on phagocytic activity of lymphocytes isolated from the Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii). Previous studies suggest that lymphocytes in this species are associated with reduced pathogen loads, especially in cooler climates, and that lymphocyte numbers fluctuate seasonally. Thus, we evaluated thermal dependence of phagocytic activity in vitro and across seasons. While B1 lymphocytes appeared to be cold-adapted and always increased phagocytosis at cool temperatures, we also found evidence of thermal acclimation. Tortoises upregulated these lymphocytes during cooler seasons in the fall as their preferred body temperatures dropped, and phagocytosis also increased in efficiency during this same time. Like many other ectothermic species, populations of desert tortoises are in decline, in part due to a cold-adapted pathogen that causes chronic respiratory disease. Future studies, similarly focused on the function of B1 lymphocytes, could serve to uncover new patterns in thermal acclimation of immune functions and disease ecology across taxa of ectothermic vertebrates.
Hypoglycaemia incidence with a simple, low-dose insulin protocol for adult diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Patel Niti , Cusumano Michael , Lorenson Jessica
Published: May 2022

Objective

The objective of this study is to validate the glycaemic safety of a simple insulin protocol using weight-based insulin rates adapted from American guidance for the management of adult diabetic ketoacidosis.

Methods

Measures of hypoglycaemia were retrospectively assessed in a single cohort of inpatient adults. The primary outcome was incidence of hypoglycaemia during insulin infusion.

Key findings

Hypoglycaemia during infusion occurred in 6/81 patients (7% [95% CI 3–16%]). Five of these occurrences were associated with protocol nonadherence.

Conclusions

The glycaemic safety of a novel, variable-rate insulin protocol directly incorporating weight-based infusion rates is supported by this single-centre study.
Culex vishnui(Diptera: Culicidae): An Overlooked Vector of Arboviruses in South-East Asia
Authors: Maquart Pierre-Olivier , Chann Leakena , Boyer Sebastien
Published: May 2022

Culex vishnui Theobald, 1901, a main vector of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), is widely distributed in the Oriental region where it often accounts for a great part of the culicid fauna. This species also has been found naturally infected with at least 13 other arboviruses of medical and veterinary importance. Females blood feed predominantly upon pigs and birds, but may readily bite cattle and humans. Because of its abundance, medical importance, and presence throughout ecological gradients among urban, peri-urban, and rural areas, Cx. vishnui potentially may serve as a bridge vector transmitting viruses from natural and wild hosts to humans. Being zoo- and anthropophagic, omnipresent in the Oriental region, and presenting strong resistance to many insecticide families, this overlooked mosquito species may pose a serious health risk in one of the most densely populated regions of the world.
Performance of the Sofia SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Pediatric Patients
Authors: Freeman Megan Culler , Freeman Tanner J , Iagnemma Jennifer , Rasmussen Jayne , Heidenreich Kelly , Wells Alan , Hoberman Alejandro , Mitchell Stephanie L
Published: May 2022

The sensitivity and specificity of SARS-CoV-2 antigen tests have not been widely assessed in children. We evaluated children presenting to outpatient care with Quidel Sofia SARS-CoV-2 antigen test (Sofia-Ag-RDT) compared against Cepheid Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2/Flu/RSV reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction test from November 2020 to April 2021. Sofia-Ag-RDT had the highest sensitivity in symptomatic (82%; 95% confidence interval, 68%-91%) children.
First case report of uterine perforation and bowel incarceration following a clandestine abortion in Morocco
Authors: Deflaoui Tarik , Jabi Rachid , Derkaoui Anas , Merhoum Abdelali , Kradi Yassin , Bouziane Mohammed
Published: May 2022

Uterine perforation is a rare complication of abortion. It becomes much rarer when associated with a small bowel incarceration at the uterine breach. Its diagnosis can be suspected clinically, but radiology remains more sensitive for diagnosis. Surgery is the cornerstone in treating this entity as it provides both diagnostic and therapeutic management. A multidisciplinary therapeutic approach should be immediately performed to ensure a good prognosis. In this report, we describe a case of small intestine incarceration in the breach of a uterine perforation that occurred in the weeks following a clandestine abortion.
N-dependent dynamics of root growth and nitrate and ammonium uptake are altered by the bacterium Herbaspirillum seropedicae in the cereal model Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Kuang Weiqi , Sanow Stefan , Kelm Jana M , Müller Linow Mark , Andeer Peter , Kohlheyer Dietrich , Northen Trent , Vogel John P , Watt Michelle , Arsova Borjana
Published: May 2022

Nitrogen (N) fixation in cereals by root-associated bacteria is a promising solution for reducing use of chemical N fertilizers in agriculture. However, plant and bacterial responses are unpredictable across environments. We hypothesized that cereal responses to N-fixing bacteria are dynamic, depending on N supply and time. To quantify the dynamics, a gnotobiotic, fabricated ecosystem (EcoFAB) was adapted to analyse N mass balance, to image shoot and root growth, and to measure gene expression of Brachypodium distachyon inoculated with the N-fixing bacterium Herbaspirillum seropedicae. Phenotyping throughput of EcoFAB-N was 25–30 plants h−1 with open software and imaging systems. Herbaspirillum seropedicae inoculation of B. distachyon shifted root and shoot growth, nitrate versus ammonium uptake, and gene expression with time; directions and magnitude depended on N availability. Primary roots were longer and root hairs shorter regardless of N, with stronger changes at low N. At higher N, H. seropedicae provided 11% of the total plant N that came from sources other than the seed or the nutrient solution. The time-resolved phenotypic and molecular data point to distinct modes of action: at 5 mM NH4NO3 the benefit appears through N fixation, while at 0.5 mM NH4NO3 the mechanism appears to be plant physiological, with H. seropedicae promoting uptake of N from the root medium.Future work could fine-tune plant and root-associated microorganisms to growth and nutrient dynamics.
Police recruitment videos and their relevance for attracting officers
Authors: Simpson Rylan
Published: May 2022

Police continue to cite struggles of attracting applicants to their agencies. One means by which police attempt to attract applicants is via their recruitment videos. As part of the present research, I employ content analysis to descriptively assess the material contained within a large sample of recruitment videos from police agencies across the USA (N = 567). Trained coders reviewed each video and coded them for an array of different variables, including video characteristics, officer representation, informational content, and behavioural content. The analyses reveal that in addition to including some technical information about the job, many videos also feature high-speed driving, the use of firearms, the demonstration of canine as well as special weapons and tactics units, and an emphasis on men, masculinity, and physicality. Although many videos still highlight some community-oriented behaviours, such behaviours are often less salient than the former. By cataloging recruitment videos, I both identify and interrogate the behaviours highlighted by police as part of their recruiting efforts and discuss the associated implications for people’s potential interest in policing careers.
Beam emittance growth due to the strong space-charge field at low energy of a high-intensity ion linac and its mitigation using an octupole magnetic field
Authors: Chimura Motoki , Harada Hiroyuki , Kinsho Michikazu
Published: May 2022

In the low-energy region of a high-intensity ion linac, a strong space-charge field causes a rapid beam emittance growth over a short distance of only a few meters. The beam emittance growth leads to beam loss and machine activation, raising a serious issue for regular maintenance of the accelerator component and beam power ramp-up. We studied the mechanism of beam emittance growth due to the space-charge field based on three-dimensional particle-tracking simulation and theoretical considerations. Numerical simulations of the high-intensity H− (negative hydrogen) linac at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex shows that the nonlinear terms in the space-charge field directly cause beam emittance growth and beam halo formation. We also propose a method to mitigate the beam emittance growth by using an octupole magnetic field, which arises as one of the nonlinear terms in the space-charge field. By applying this method in the simulation we have succeeded in mitigating the beam emittance growth.
Toward diagnosing neutrino non-unitarity through CP phase correlations
Authors: Minakata Hisakazu
Published: May 2022

We discuss correlations between the neutrino-mass-embedded Standard Model CP phase δ and the phases that originate from new physics which cause neutrino-sector unitarity violation (UV) at low energies. This study aims to provide one of the building blocks for machinery to diagnose non-unitarity, our ultimate goal. We extend the perturbation theory of neutrino oscillation in matter proposed by Denton et al. (DMP) to include the UV effect expressed by the α parametrization. By analyzing the DMP-UV perturbation theory to first order, we are able to draw a complete picture of the δ–UV phase correlations in the whole kinematical region covered by terrestrial neutrino experiments. Two regions exist with characteristically different patterns of the correlations: (i) the chiral-type $[e^{- i \delta } \alpha _{\mu e}, \, e^{ - i \delta } \alpha _{\tau e}, \, \alpha _{\tau \mu }]$ (Particle Data Group convention) correlation in the entire high-energy region $\vert \rho E \vert \gtrsim 6 \, (\text{g/cm}^3)$ GeV, and (ii) (blobs of the α parameters)–e±iδ correlation anywhere else. Some relevant aspects for the measurement of the UV parameters, such as the necessity of determining all the αβγ elements at once, are also pointed out. Subject Index: B52, B54
Pathways for assessing interdisciplinarity: A systematic review
Authors: Laursen Bethany K , Motzer Nicole , Anderson Kelly J
Published: May 2022

In many sectors and in many respects, interdisciplinarity has made progress in recent decades, but less so when it comes to evaluating interdisciplinary work. Challenges remain, especially regarding what counts as ‘good’ interdisciplinarity. While previous reviews describe broad trends contributing to these challenges, high-level observations are less suited to: (1) pinpointing underlying sources of persistent evaluative issues, (2) capturing less frequent counterexamples and emerging trends, and (3) providing practical guidance for moving the field forward. This article presents a novel approach for excavating and analyzing assessment designs within and across a wide range of published studies. It is the first study to structure its review of interdisciplinary evaluation around the basics of evaluation theory, creating a simplified model of assessment design choices called an assessment pathway. It further stands alone as an extensive systematic review of the interdisciplinary literature uniquely placed within the context of evaluation, encompassing 20 years, 142 studies, 1,006 assessment pathways, and 19,114 data points. Results show that while interdisciplinary assessments to date excel at variation, only 12% of identified pathways contain the minimum elements required to reach an evaluative judgment. Increased attention to evaluation theory can catalyze progress and provide structure and shared language to a highly varied domain. Readers can visually explore the full dataset online and download it from Harvard’s Dataverse.
Responsible Hedge Funds
Authors: Liang Hao , Sun Lin , Teo Melvyn
Published: May 2022

Hedge funds that endorse the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) underperform other hedge funds after adjusting for risk but attract greater investor flows, accumulate more assets, and harvest greater fee revenues. Consistent with an agency explanation, the underperformance is driven by PRI signatories with low environmental, social, and governance (ESG) exposures and is greater for hedge funds with poor incentive alignment. To address endogeneity, we exploit regulatory reforms that enhance stewardship and show that the ESG exposure and relative performance of signatory funds improve post reforms. Our findings suggest that some hedge funds endorse responsible investment to pander to investor preferences.
Occupational exposure in automobile repair workshops: toxicological effects of contaminated soil in Wistar rats
Authors: Taiwo Odunayo Anthonia , Dosumu Oluwatosin Adebisi , Akomolafe Omoyemi Victoria , Oni Eniola Oluwayemisi , Adefuye Adefemi Oluwasegun , Shofunde Abiodun Abayomi , Samuel Omolola Mary , Ojo Oluwafemi Adeleke
Published: May 2022

Background

Automobile repair workshops contribute immensely to the generation of soil and water contamination. This study was conducted to compare the soil microbial load, heavy metals, and consequent toxicological effects, in three (3) automobile mechanic sites.

Method

Soil samples were randomly collected from 3 different auto mechanic workshop in Abeokuta town of Ogun-State, Nigeria. Bacterial and fungal counts were done via standard procedures. High-performance liquid chromatography was employed for the aflatoxin quantification. Also, 24 Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 6), group 1—Control animals: orally administered distilled water, Group 2—administered soil sample solution from Ita Oshin mechanic site (I M), Group 3—administered soil sample solution from Ajebo mechanic site (A M), while Group 4—administered soil sample solution from Laderin mechanic site (L M), for two (2) weeks. Conventional methods were used to determine some physical and biochemical parameters in the rat’s serum and tissues.

Results

Eight bacterial and fungal genera were identified from the soil samples with Bacillus subtilis and Aspergillus niger occurring most frequently. The levels of heavy metals (lead, zinc, chromium, and cadmium) analyzed were higher than the WHO permissible heavy metal limits in all samples. The activity of liver function enzymes ALP, AST, and ALT was significantly increased in the serum of animals exposed to the 3 soil solution samples when compared with the control group, with the highest recorded at Site II.

Conclusion

High level of heavy metals and aflatoxins could predispose to several health-related hazards when humans are exposed to contaminated soil solutions around and within automobile mechanic areas.
Viromics Reveals the Viral Diversity in Cultivated and Wild Kiwifruit
Authors: Zhao Lei , Wang Jingke , Sujata Shrestha , Sun Jiaxiu , Wang Yicheng , Hou Caiting , Cao Mengji , Wu Yunfeng
Published: May 2022

China, the center of origin of kiwifruit, has the largest kiwifruit cultivation and production area worldwide, and Shaanxi Province is the major kiwifruit-growing region in China. However, our knowledge of kiwifruit viruses is largely skewed toward their pathology in cultivated orchards, and little is known about viral diversity in wild kiwifruit. To determine the viral diversity in cultivated and wild kiwifruit, 32 cultivated kiwifruit samples from Shaanxi Province and 30 wild kiwifruit samples from the Qinling Mountains were collected and subjected to high-throughput sequencing in this study. Eleven known viruses were found among the 32 cultivated kiwifruit samples, and 8 known viruses and 2 new viruses were found among the 30 wild kiwifruit samples. One of the two new viruses, Actinidia yellowing virus 3 (AcYV3), a member of the genus Idaeovirus, may be associated with severe yellowing of kiwifruit leaves. In addition, more than 50 nearly full-length genome sequences of known viruses were obtained. The detection rates, recombination, and molecular variation of these viruses were further analyzed. The results obtained in this study provide valuable information for understanding the virome of cultivated and wild kiwifruit.
Under the Helmet: Perioperative Concussion—Review of Current Literature and Targets for Research
Authors: Abcejo Arnoley S. , Pasternak Jeffrey J.
Published: May 2022

Patients with recent concussion experience disruption in neurocellular and neurometabolic function that may persist beyond symptom resolution. Patients may require anesthesia to facilitate diagnostic or surgical procedures following concussion; these procedures may or may not be related to the injury that caused the patient to sustain a concussion. As our knowledge about concussion continues to advance, it is imperative that anesthesiologists remain up to date with current principles. This Focused Review will update readers on the latest concussion literature, discuss the potential impact of concussion on perianesthetic care, and identify knowledge gaps in our understanding of concussion.
Intraocular Peak Pressure in Patients Under Treatment With Fixed Combination of Bimatoprost/Timolol/Brimonidine Once Daily Versus Twice Daily
Authors: Susanna Bianca N. , Susanna Carolina N. , Susanna Fernanda N. , Mota Rodrigo T. , Barbosa Gabriel C.S. , Lima Vagner L. , Susanna Remo
Published: May 2022

Précis:

We investigate the efficacy of triple-fixed-combination of bimatoprost/brimonidine/timolol once and twice a day, demonstrating higher intraocular pressure reduction with once-a-day use, and discuss possible implications based on previous literature.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of a fixed combination bimatoprost-timolol-brimonidine (Triplenex) instilled once-daily with twice-daily in primary open angle glaucoma.

Patients and Methods:

A randomized clinical trial at a public eye care institution. Thirty patients with primary open angle glaucoma were followed up for 3 months. The right and left eyes of these patients were randomly assigned to once-daily (10:00 pm) or twice-daily (10:00 am; 10:00 pm) regimens of fixed combination bimatoprost-timolol-brimonidine. Intraocular pressure peaks were obtained with the water drinking test before the introduction of this medication (basal WDT0), 1 month (WDT1), 2 months (WDT2), and 3 months (WDT3) after starting the use of the fixed combination of bimatoprost/timolol/brimonidine (Triplenex). Variation from peak intraocular pressure at WDT3 to peak at WDT0 was compared within groups of 2 versus once-daily regimen.

Results:

Sixty eyes of 30 patients (age: 70.67±9.70 y) were included in this study. Baseline clinical characteristics were comparable between groups. The mean reduction in peak intraocular pressure from WDT0 to WDT3 was 6.1±6.1 mm Hg (30.5%) in the eyes receiving 1 drop per day and 4.3±5.7 mm Hg (21.5%) in the eyes receiving 2 drops per day (P=0.023). Mean reduction in peak intraocular pressure considering all WDT was also higher in the group with once-a-day treatment (5.90±6.03 vs. 4.46±4.28 mm Hg, P=0.006).

Conclusion:

Fixed combination of bimatoprost 0.01%, brimonidine tartrate 0.15%, and timolol maleate 0.5% once-a-day is more effective in reducing peak intraocular pressure as measured by the WDT than twice-a-day dosing.
2021 Taiwan Stroke Society Guidelines of blood pressure control for ischemic stroke prevention
Authors: Chi Nai-Fang , Chung Chih-Ping , Cheng Hao-Ming , Liu Chi-Hung , Lin Chun-Jen , Hsu Li-Chi , Tang Sung-Chun , Lee Jiunn-Tay , Po Helen L. , Jeng Jiann-Shing , Wang Tzung-Dau , Lee I-Hui ,   Taiwan Stroke Society Guideline Consensus Group
Published: May 2022

Background:

Since the publication of the 2015 Taiwan Stroke Society Blood Pressure for Treatment and Prevention of Stroke Guideline (2015 TSS BP Guideline), several new clinical studies have addressed whether a stricter blood pressure (BP) target would be effective for stroke prevention.

Methods:

TSS guideline consensus group provides recommendations on BP targets for stroke prevention based on updated evidences.

Results:

The present guideline covers five topics: (1) diagnosis of hypertension; (2) BP control and primary prevention of ischemic stroke; (3) BP control and secondary prevention of ischemic stroke; (4) BP control and secondary prevention of large artery atherosclerosis ischemic stroke; and (5) BP control and secondary prevention of small vessel occlusion ischemic stroke.

Conclusion:

The BP target for most stroke patients with hypertension is <130/80 mm Hg.
Comparison of a home sleep test with in-laboratory polysomnography in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
Authors: Hung Chuan-Jen , Kang Bor-Hwang , Lin Yaoh-Shiang , Su Hsing-Hao
Published: May 2022

Background:

In-laboratory, polysomnography (PSG) is the gold standard for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). However, the long waiting list and sleeping at a hospital make patients hesitate to undergo the examination, thereby delaying diagnosis. During coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, sleep labs are almost closed, and the delay is worsening. The home sleep test (HST) enables subjects to be tested at home, a familiar and comfortable environment, without a long waiting list. This study assessed the accuracy of a type III HST in diagnosing OSAS in the Taiwanese population and identified factors affecting the diagnostic accuracy.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 67 patients with clinically suspected OSAS. All patients were allocated to receive both PSG and the HST. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) measured through PSG was used as the standard. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the HST in diagnosing and evaluating the severity of OSAS were analyzed.

Results:

Among the 67 patients, no significant difference was noted in the average AHI values obtained using PSG and the HST (p = 0.103). The AHI obtained from HST was significantly correlated with that obtained from PSG, with the correlation coefficient being 0.779 (p < 0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the HST in diagnosing OSAS were 94.9%, 62.5%, and 91.0%, respectively, and 80.0%, 74.1%, and 77.6% in diagnosing moderate to severe OSAS. Furthermore, the difference in AHIs measured using the two tests were positively correlated with the severity of sleep apnea.

Conclusion:

The HST used in preliminary screening of patients with suspected OSAS achieved an accuracy of >90%. For patients with moderate to severe OSAS, the accuracy was below 80%. Therefore, for patients who receive an OSAS diagnosis through the HST, arrangement of PSG is recommended for determining the severity of the OSAS and giving proper treatment.
MYB RNA In Situ Hybridization Is a Useful Diagnostic Tool to Distinguish Breast Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma From Other Triple-negative Breast Carcinomas
Authors: Butcher Monica R. , White Marissa J. , Rooper Lisa M. , Argani Pedram , Cimino-Mathews Ashley
Published: May 2022

Breast adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC) has overlapping features with basal-like triple-negative breast carcinoma (TNBC), yet carries a more favorable prognosis, and accurate diagnosis is critical. Like salivary gland AdCC, breast AdCC demonstrates recurrent alterations in the MYB gene. Novel chromogenic RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) for MYB has emerged as sensitive and specific for salivary gland AdCC. Here, we evaluate MYB RNA ISH in invasive ductal carcinomas (IDCs) including basal-like TNBC, and in the histologic mimics ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and collagenous spherulosis. MYB RNA ISH was also performed on previously constructed tissue microarrays containing 78 evaluable IDC, including 30 basal-like TNBC (EGFR+ and/or CK5/6+), 19 luminal A (ER+/HER-2−), 12 HER-2+ (ER−/HER-2+), 11 non–basal-like TNBC, and 6 luminal B (ER+/HER-2+). MYB RNA ISH overexpression was seen in 100% (n=18/18) of primary breast AdCC and 10% (n=8/78) of IDC (P<0.0001). MYB RNA ISH was overexpressed in 37% (n=7/19) of luminal A and 8% (n=1/12) of HER-2+ IDC, and in no cases of TNBC or luminal B IDC. The majority (67%, n=8/12) of DCIS and all (n=7) cases of collagenous spherulosis demonstrated overexpression of MYB RNA. MYB gene rearrangement was detected in 67% (n=4/6) evaluable AdCC. Although MYB RNA ISH overexpression cannot be used to distinguish between cribriform DCIS or collagenous spherulosis and AdCC, MYB RNA ISH is absent in basal-like TNBC and rare in ER+ or HER-2+ IDC. MYB RNA ISH could be a useful, sensitive, and rapid diagnostic adjunct in the workup of a triple-negative carcinoma in the breast.
A Multifactorial Analysis of Extracranial Carotid Disease: A Comprehensive Approach to Sonographic Criteria
Authors: Silva Fernanda Costa Sampaio , Aras Júnior Roque
Published: May 2022

The present study brings a pictorial review aimed to discuss the multifactorial interpretation of extracranial carotid atheromatous disease, contemplating not only the degree of stenosis but also the arterial flow patterns, the intima-media thickness and the morphological characteristics of the atheromatous plaque. We merged the recommendations contained in the different reference literature on the topic to give a comprehensive approach to ultrasound criteria for diagnostic carotid examination. We infer that the carotid ultrasound evaluation must include important predictors of cardiovascular risk, which should be written in the ultrasound reports, thus allowing the adequate clinical approach to the disease.
Intraoperative Invasive Blood Pressure Monitoring in Flap-Based Lower Extremity Reconstruction
Authors: Haffner Zoë K. , Dekker Paige K. , Abu El Hawa Areeg A. , Bekeny Jenna C. , Kim Kevin G. , Fan Kenneth L. , Evans Karen K.
Published: May 2022

Background

Despite the lack of clear indications for the use of intra-arterial lines (IALs) for intraoperative hemodynamic monitoring, they are often used in a variety of settings. In this retrospective review of patients undergoing free tissue transfer (FTT) for lower extremity (LE) reconstruction, we sought to (1) identify patient factors associated with IAL placement, (2) compare hemodynamic measurements obtained via IAL versus noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) monitoring, and (3) investigate whether method of hemodynamic monitoring affected intraoperative administration of blood pressure–altering medications.

Methods

Patients undergoing LE FTT from January 2017 through June 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were pair matched based on flap donor site, sex, and body mass index to identify patient factors associated with IAL placement. Methods previously described by Bland and Altman (Lancet.1986;327:307–310) were used to investigate agreement between IAL and NIBP measurements.

Results

Sixty-eight patients were included with 34 patients in the IAL group and 34 in the NIBP group. Older patients (P= 0.03) and those with a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (P= 0.05) were significantly more likely to have an IAL placed. Agreement analysis demonstrated that mean arterial pressures calculated from IAL readings were as much as 31 points lower or 28 points higher than those from NIBP. Bias calculations with this extent of difference suggest poor correlation between IAL readings and NIBP (R2= 0.3027). There was no significant difference between groups in rate of administration of blood-pressure altering medications.

Conclusions

Surgeons should consider the risks and benefits of IAL placement on a case-by-case basis, particularly for patients who are young and healthy. Our findings highlight the need for clearer guidance regarding the use of IAL in patients undergoing LE FTT.
Myofascial Flap Closure Decreases Complications in Complex Surgery of the Craniocervical Junction in Ehlers-Danlos Patients
Authors: Norman Sofya , Chae John K. , Marano Andrew A. , Baaj Ali A. , Greenfield Jeffrey P. , Otterburn David M.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) are at elevated risk for soft tissue complications when undergoing decompression with or without fusion of the craniocervical junction. We have previously shown that muscle flap closure can decrease reoperative rates. This study investigated whether myofascial flap closure improved clinical outcomes after simple or complex surgery of the craniocervical junction in EDS patients specifically.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of EDS patients who had undergone surgery for Chiari malformation at the Weill Cornell Medical Center between 2013 and 2020. Postoperative complications were recorded, including infection, wound dehiscence, seroma, hematoma, hardware removal, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, reoperation, and pseudomeningocele. Patients were stratified by type of closure and type of surgery. Fisher exact test was used for statistical comparison.

Results

Between 2013 and 2020, 62 EDS patients who had surgery of the cervicocranial junction were reviewed. Of these, 31 patients had complex surgery with myofascial flap closure and 22 had simple surgery with traditional closure. The mean age at the time of surgery was 21.3 years. There were no significant differences in wound complications or reoperation rates between the simple surgery and complex surgery groups. In addition, there were no significant differences in complications between complex surgery with flap closure and simple surgery with traditional closure. Our CSF cutaneous fistula rate was 0%, considerably lower than rates reported in the literature, and, in one case, a patient developed a postoperative pseudomeningocele secondary to a dural leak, but the myofascial flap closure prevented its progression.

Conclusions

Patients with EDS undergoing surgery of the cervicocranial junction may benefit from myofascial flap closure. Flap closure reduced complications after complex surgery of the craniocervical junction to the level of simple surgery. Our CSF leak rate was exceptionally low and only one patient experienced pseudomeningocele. Myofascial flaps are safe to perform in the EDS cohort and prevented CSF cutaneous fistula formation.