bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renin–angiotensin system blockade in the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Cohen Jordana B , South Andrew M , Shaltout Hossam A , Sinclair Matthew R , Sparks Matthew A
Published: January 2021

In the early months of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a hypothesis emerged suggesting that pharmacologic inhibitors of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) may increase COVID-19 severity. This hypothesis was based on the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a counterregulatory component of the RAS, as the binding site for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), allowing viral entry into host cells. Extrapolations from prior evidence led to speculation that upregulation of ACE2 by RAS blockade may increase the risk of adverse outcomes from COVID-19. However, counterarguments pointed to evidence of potential protective effects of ACE2 and RAS blockade with regard to acute lung injury, as well as substantial risks from discontinuing these commonly used and important medications. Here we provide an overview of classic RAS physiology and the crucial role of ACE2 in systemic pathways affected by COVID-19. Additionally, we critically review the physiologic and epidemiologic evidence surrounding the interactions between RAS blockade and COVID-19. We review recently published trial evidence and propose important future directions to improve upon our understanding of these relationships.
Analyzing Mass Attitudes Toward the International Court of Justice
Authors: Justwan Florian , Fisher Sarah K , Kerr Ashley , Berejikian Jeffrey D
Published: January 2021

This paper analyzes public attitudes about the International Court of Justice (ICJ). We explore two questions: (1) Why are some people in favor of submitting their country's disputes to the ICJ while others are opposed? (2) How can we explain variations in public support for compliance with a costly ICJ ruling? We argue that individual-level attitudes about both issues are driven by different psychological dynamics. While we expect that cost–benefit calculations and cosmopolitan social identity will affect attitudes in both contexts, people's views on compliance should also be shaped by their level of social dominance orientation (SDO). Our statistical analysis is based on original survey data, collected in Belize in April 2019. We obtain three main findings. First, people's ex ante beliefs about the costs of an ICJ ruling have tangible effects on attitudes toward ICJ adjudication. As predicted, higher expected costs lead to decreased support for adjudication. Second, cosmopolitanism is positively associated with support for adjudication, but it has no effect on attitudes about compliance with international court rulings. Third, high-SDO respondents are less likely to favor the implementation of a costly ICJ verdict. However, SDO only reduces support for compliance in individuals with narrow social identity attachments.
Comparative genomics of white and opaque cell states supports an epigenetic mechanism of phenotypic switching in Candida albicans
Authors: Beekman Chapman N , Cuomo Christina A , Bennett Richard J , Ene Iuliana V
Published: January 2021

Several Candida species can undergo a heritable and reversible transition from a ‘white’ state to a mating proficient ‘opaque’ state. This ability relies on highly interconnected transcriptional networks that control cell-type-specific gene expression programs over multiple generations. Candida albicans, the most prominent pathogenic Candida species, provides a well-studied paradigm for the white-opaque transition. In this species, a network of at least eight transcriptional regulators controls the balance between white and opaque states that have distinct morphologies, transcriptional profiles, and physiological properties. Given the reversible nature and the high frequency of white-opaque transitions, it is widely assumed that this switch is governed by epigenetic mechanisms that occur independently of any changes in DNA sequence. However, a direct genomic comparison between white and opaque cells has yet to be performed. Here, we present a whole-genome comparative analysis of C. albicans white and opaque cells. This analysis revealed rare genetic changes between cell states, none of which are linked to white-opaque switching. This result is consistent with epigenetic mechanisms controlling cell state differentiation in C. albicans and provides direct evidence against a role for genetic variation in mediating the switch.
Treatment of the X chromosome in mapping multiple quantitative trait loci
Authors: Tran Quoc , Broman Karl W
Published: January 2021

Statistical methods to map quantitative trait loci (QTL) often neglect the X chromosome and may focus exclusively on autosomal loci. But the X chromosome often requires special treatment: sex and cross-direction covariates may need to be included to avoid spurious evidence of linkage, and the X chromosome may require a separate significance threshold. In multiple-QTL analyses, including the consideration of epistatic interactions, the X chromosome also requires special care and consideration. We extend a penalized likelihood method for multiple-QTL model selection, to appropriately handle the X chromosome. We examine its performance in simulation and by application to a large eQTL data set. The method has been implemented in the package R/qtl.
Improved contiguity of the threespine stickleback genome using long-read sequencing
Authors: Nath Shivangi , Shaw Daniel E , White Michael A
Published: January 2021

While the cost and time for assembling a genome has drastically decreased, it still remains a challenge to assemble a highly contiguous genome. These challenges are rapidly being overcome by the integration of long-read sequencing technologies. Here, we use long-read sequencing to improve the contiguity of the threespine stickleback fish (Gasterosteus aculeatus) genome, a prominent genetic model species. Using Pacific Biosciences sequencing, we assembled a highly contiguous genome of a freshwater fish from Paxton Lake. Using contigs from this genome, we were able to fill over 76.7% of the gaps in the existing reference genome assembly, improving contiguity over fivefold. Our gap filling approach was highly accurate, validated by 10X Genomics long-distance linked-reads. In addition to closing a majority of gaps, we were able to assemble segments of telomeres and centromeres throughout the genome. This highlights the power of using long sequencing reads to assemble highly repetitive and difficult to assemble regions of genomes. This latest genome build has been released through a newly designed community genome browser that aims to consolidate the growing number of genomics datasets available for the threespine stickleback fish.
KH domain containing RNA-binding proteins coordinate with microRNAs to regulate Caenorhabditis elegans development
Authors: Haskell Dustin , Zinovyeva Anna
Published: January 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, but the extent to which these key regulators of gene expression coordinate their activities and the precise mechanisms of this coordination are not well understood. RBPs often have recognizable RNA binding domains that correlate with specific protein function. Recently, several RBPs containing K homology (KH) RNA binding domains were shown to work with miRNAs to regulate gene expression, raising the possibility that KH domains may be important for coordinating with miRNA pathways in gene expression regulation. To ascertain whether additional KH domain proteins functionally interact with miRNAs during Caenorhabditis elegans development, we knocked down twenty-four genes encoding KH-domain proteins in several miRNA sensitized genetic backgrounds. Here, we report that a majority of the KH domain-containing genes genetically interact with multiple miRNAs and Argonaute alg-1. Interestingly, two KH domain genes, predicted splicing factors sfa-1 and asd-2, genetically interacted with all of the miRNA mutants tested, whereas other KH domain genes showed genetic interactions only with specific miRNAs. Our domain architecture and phylogenetic relationship analyses of the C. elegans KH domain-containing proteins revealed potential groups that may share both structure and function. Collectively, we show that many C. elegans KH domain RBPs functionally interact with miRNAs, suggesting direct or indirect coordination between these two classes of post-transcriptional gene expression regulators.
Lilikoi V2.0: a deep learning–enabled, personalized pathway-based R package for diagnosis and prognosis predictions using metabolomics data
Authors: Fang Xinying , Liu Yu , Ren Zhijie , Du Yuheng , Huang Qianhui , Garmire Lana X
Published: January 2021

Background

previously we developed Lilikoi, a personalized pathway-based method to classify diseases using metabolomics data. Given the new trends of computation in the metabolomics field, it is important to update Lilikoi software.

Results

here we report the next version of Lilikoi as a significant upgrade. The new Lilikoi v2.0 R package has implemented a deep learning method for classification, in addition to popular machine learning methods. It also has several new modules, including the most significant addition of prognosis prediction, implemented by Cox-proportional hazards model and the deep learning–based Cox-nnet model. Additionally, Lilikoi v2.0 supports data preprocessing, exploratory analysis, pathway visualization, and metabolite pathway regression.

Conculsion

Lilikoi v2.0 is a modern, comprehensive package to enable metabolomics analysis in R programming environment.
A framework for mapping local knowledge on ciguatera and artisanal fisheries to inform systematic conservation planning
Authors: André Laure Vaitiare , Van Wynsberge Simon , Chinain Mireille , Gatti Clémence Mahana Iti , Dempsey Alexandra , Andréfouët Serge
Published: January 2021

Millions of people’s livelihoods rely on artisanal fisheries. However, in many regions fishers are increasingly facing ciguatera poisoning, a seafood-borne illness. The toxin, produced by benthic dinoflagellates, can spread through marine food webs and to humans by direct consumption. Ciguatera risk can play a major role in fisher’s activities but has never been considered in any marine spatial plans thus far. To fill this gap, we examined if integrating ciguatera in systematic conservation plans could affect these decisions. We developed through map-based interviews, a novel seven-step framework to collect and map local knowledge on ciguatera risk and fisheries activities with two innovations: (i) better mapping of fishing grounds by combining geomorphological habitat and fishing gear information, and (ii) integrating ciguatera risk directly into systematic spatial planning designs and scenarios conceived to maximize benthic habitat conservation while minimizing impacts to fishers. The approach is illustrated for Raivavae Island, in French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean. We found that integrating ciguatera significantly improved prioritization solutions with a 24–38% decrease of costs to fishers compared with scenarios based solely on fishery data. This framework was designed for scientists and managers to optimize the implementation of conservation plans and could be generalized to ciguatera-prone areas.
Huehue constitutionalism
Authors: Xavier Fernando César Costa
Published: January 2021

The article describes the characteristics of the disruptive behavior of Brazilian users in multiplayer online games (MOGs), which has come to be termed—including in the literature—as huehue. It then argues that the main features pointed out—spamming, trolling, and griefing—could also be perceived to some extent in the behavior of players acting in Brazilian high politics. The persona behind this disruptive subjectivity, so characteristic of Brazilian culture, could be called “griefer” (in Portuguese: zoeiro). “Huehue constitutionalism” or “griefer constitutionalism” would be a type of dysfunctional constitutional environment, markedly Brazilian, characterized by the fact that, in the political game, subjects who perform constitutional functions feel free to act, raising the levels of disruptive behavior to unprecedented levels (huehueing), so that while benefiting from constitutional rules to act freely, they abuse and corrupt the democratic stability proper to constitutional order. Although more serious in terms of dysfunctionality than the so-called “constitutional rot,” huehue constitutionalism would foreshadow a moment of constitutional crisis and would be sufficient to thwart any attempt at experimenting with popular collaborative constitutionalism using digital tools.
Human papillomavirus vaccination and all-cause morbidity in adolescent girls: a cohort study of absence from school due to illness
Authors: Hviid Anders , Thorsen Nicklas M , Thomsen Louise N , Møller Frederik T , Wiwe Andreas , Frisch Morten , Valentiner-Branth Palle , Rytter Dorte , Mølbak Kåre
Published: January 2021

Background

A growing body of evidence supports the safety of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines. However, concerns about autonomic dysfunction syndromes and non-specific symptoms continue to linger. These conditions are not easily captured by traditional diagnostic classification schemes and call for innovative approaches to the study of vaccine safety which take more general measures of all-cause morbidity into account.

Methods

Taking advantage of the unique Danish registers, including regional registration of absence from school, we conducted a cohort study of 14 068 adolescent Danish girls attending 5th through 9th grade in public schools in the municipality of Copenhagen during 1 August 2013–23 January 2018. We obtained time-varying HPV vaccination status and demographic information from nationwide registers. Using Poisson regression with random effects, we estimated rate ratios (RRs) of absence due to illness, comparing HPV-vaccinated girls with unvaccinated girls with adjustment for grade, season, calendar period, demographic factors and random effects at the individual, class and school levels.

Results

Our study included 6 206 188 school days with 213 221 days of absence from school due to illness (absence rate, 3.4%). Comparing absence rates due to illness in HPV-vaccinated and unvaccinated girls yielded an adjusted RR of 1.00 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.98–1.03).

Conclusions

Our study provides an important and novel contribution to HPV vaccine safety. Using absence from school records, we were able to address important safety concerns without relying on medical diagnoses. We conclude that HPV vaccination does not increase the risk of morbidity in any manner that manifests as absence from school due to illness.
Evidence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Replication and Tropism in the Lungs, Airways, and Vascular Endothelium of Patients With Fatal Coronavirus Disease 2019: An Autopsy Case Series
Authors: Bhatnagar Julu , Gary Joy , Reagan-Steiner Sarah , Estetter Lindsey B , Tong Suxiang , Tao Ying , Denison Amy M , Lee Elizabeth , DeLeon-Carnes Marlene , Li Yan , Uehara Anna , Paden Clinton R , Leitgeb Brooke , Uyeki Timothy M , Martines Roosecelis B , Ritter Jana M , Paddock Christopher D , Shieh Wun-Ju , Zaki Sherif R
Published: January 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to produce substantial morbidity and mortality. To understand the reasons for the wide-spectrum complications and severe outcomes of COVID-19, we aimed to identify cellular targets of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) tropism and replication in various tissues.

Methods

We evaluated RNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded autopsy tissues from 64 case patients (age range, 1 month to 84 years; 21 COVID-19 confirmed, 43 suspected COVID-19) by SARS-CoV-2 reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). For cellular localization of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and viral characterization, we performed in situ hybridization (ISH), subgenomic RNA RT-PCR, and whole-genome sequencing.

Results

SARS-CoV-2 was identified by RT-PCR in 32 case patients (21 COVID-19 confirmed, 11 suspected). ISH was positive in 20 and subgenomic RNA RT-PCR was positive in 17 of 32 RT-PCR–positive case patients. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was localized by ISH in hyaline membranes, pneumocytes, and macrophages of lungs; epithelial cells of airways; and endothelial cells and vessel walls of brain stem, leptomeninges, lung, heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas. The D614G variant was detected in 9 RT-PCR–positive case patients.

Conclusions

We identified cellular targets of SARS-CoV-2 tropism and replication in the lungs and airways and demonstrated its direct infection in vascular endothelium. This work provides important insights into COVID-19 pathogenesis and mechanisms of severe outcomes.
Novel Sterile Insect Technology Program Results in Suppression of a Field Mosquito Population and Subsequently to Reduced Incidence of Dengue
Authors: de Castro Poncio Lisiane , dos Anjos Filipe Apolinário , de Oliveira Deborah A , Rebechi Débora , de Oliveira Rodrigo Neves , Chitolina Rodrigo Faitta , Fermino Marise Lopes , Bernardes Luciano G , Guimarães Danton , Lemos Pedro A , Silva Marcelo N E , Silvestre Rodrigo G M , Bernardes Emerson Soares , Paldi Nitzan
Published: January 2021

Background

There is a steady rise in the global incidence of Aedes-borne arbovirus disease. It has become urgent to develop alternative solutions for mosquito vector control. We developed a new method of sterilization of male mosquitoes with the goal to suppress a local Aedes aegypti population and to prevent the spread of dengue.

Methods

Sterile male mosquitoes were produced from a locally acquired Ae. aegypti colony by using a treatment that includes double-stranded RNA and thiotepa. A field study was conducted with sterile mosquito releases being performed on a weekly basis in predefined areas. There were 2 intervention periods (INT1 and INT2), with treatment and control areas reversed between INT1 and INT2.

Results

During INT1, releases in the treated area resulted in up to 91.4% reduction of live progeny of field Ae. aegypti mosquitoes recorded over time, while the control neighborhoods (no releases of sterile male mosquitoes) remained highly infested. The successful implementations of the program during INT1 and INT2 were associated with 15.9-fold and 13.7-fold lower incidences of dengue in the treated area compared to the control areas, respectively.

Conclusions

Our data show the success of this new sterile insect technology-based program in preventing the spread of dengue.
Antimicrobial resistance among uropathogens in the Asia-Pacific region: a systematic review
Authors: Sugianli Adhi Kristianto , Ginting Franciscus , Parwati Ida , de Jong Menno D , van Leth Frank , Schultsz Constance
Published: January 2021

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in urinary tract infections (UTI) is a global public health problem. However, estimates of the prevalence of AMR, required for empirical treatment guidelines, are lacking for many regions.

Objectives

To perform a systematic review and summarize the available information about AMR prevalence among urinary Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, the two priority uropathogens, in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC).

Methods

PubMed, EBSCO and Web of Science databases were searched for articles (2008–20), following PRISMA guidelines. The prevalence of resistance was calculated and reported as point estimate with 95% CI for antimicrobial drugs recommended in WHO treatment guidelines. Data were stratified by country and surveillance approach (laboratory- or population-based surveillance). The quality of included articles was assessed using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

Results

Out of 2400 identified articles, 24 studies, reporting on 11 (26.8%) of the 41 APAC countries, met the inclusion criteria. Prevalence of resistance against trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone ranged between 33% and 90%, with highest prevalence reported from Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Resistance against nitrofurantoin ranged between 2.7% and 31.4%. Two studies reported data on fosfomycin resistance (1.8% and 1.7%). Quality of reporting was moderate.

Conclusions

We show very high prevalence estimates of AMR against antibiotics commonly used for the empirical treatment of UTI, in the limited number of countries in the APAC for which data are available. Novel feasible and affordable approaches that facilitate population-based AMR surveillance are needed to increase knowledge on AMR prevalence across the region.
Serum Albumin Concentration on Admission as a Predictor of Morbidity and Mortality in Patients With Burn Injuries
Authors: Bandeira Nilmar G , Barroso Marcus Vinícius V S , Matos Marcos Antônio A , Filho Alexandre L M , Figueredo Adson A , Gravina Paula R , Klein Sibele O T
Published: January 2021

Efforts have been made to determine new predictors of morbidity and mortality in patients with severe burn injuries. This prospective cohort study aimed to determine the association of serum albumin concentration on admission and renal failure, pulmonary infection, sepsis, and death in patients with burn injuries. We included 141 patients, aged >18 years, who were admitted to our institution between April and August 2018. Among them, 59.1% were male and 83.8% had burns covering <20% of the body surface area. Scalds were the most common cause of burns (34.8%). Twelve patients died, of whom eight (66.6%) had an Abbreviated Burn Severity Index (ABSI) ≥8. Patients with serum albumin ≤2.2 g/dL had a higher mortality rate than those with >2.2 g/dL (odds ratios [OR]: 18.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.9 to 70.8). Serum albumin ≤2.2 g/dL was also significantly associated with pulmonary infection (OR: 13.1, 95% CI: 3.8 to 45.7), renal failure (OR: 30.2, 95% CI: 7.4 to 122.3), and sepsis (OR: 16.9, 95% CI: 4.9 to 58.3). Serum albumin concentration cut-points and ABSIs were determined to be death predictors using areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs). The AUCs with albumin or ABSI alone were 0.89 (95% CI: 0.79 to 0.98) and 0.92 (95% CI: 0.87 to 0.96), respectively. The AUC including both albumin and ABSI was 0.96 (95% CI: 0.90 to 0.98), indicating that the combination is a better death predictor than either measure alone. We confirmed that burn patients with a serum albumin concentration ≤2.2 g/dL on admission have substantially increased morbidity and mortality.
Short-Time Work and Unemployment in and after the Great Recession
Authors: Kopp Daniel , Siegenthaler Michael
Published: January 2021

We study whether the Swiss short-time work (STW) program reduced unemployment in and after the Great Recession using quarterly establishment-level panel data linking administrative data sources. We compare changes in layoffs into unemployment, employment, and establishment survival between establishments that applied successfully and establishments that applied unsuccessfully for STW at cantonal employment agencies. The unsuccessful establishments provide a valid counterfactual for the successful ones because cantonal approval practices are partly idiosyncratic. We find that STW increases establishment survival and prevents rather than postpones dismissals. The 7,857 establishments treated in 2009 would have dismissed 20,600 additional workers into unemployment (0.47% of the labor force) until 2012. Most workers would have been dismissed in the quarters immediately following the application, and more than a third would have become long-term unemployed. The savings on unemployment benefits may have compensated for the spending on STW benefits.
A One-class Classifier Based on a Hybrid Topology to Detect Faults in Power Cells
Authors: Jove Esteban , Casteleiro-Roca José-Luis , Quintián Héctor , Zayas-Gato Francisco , Vercelli Gianni , Calvo-Rolle José Luis
Published: January 2021

The use of batteries became essential in our daily life in electronic devices, electric vehicles and energy storage systems in general terms. As they play a key role in many devices, their design and implementation must follow a thorough test process to check their features at different operating points. In this circumstance, the appearance of any kind of deviation from the expected operation must be detected. This research deals with real data registered during the testing phase of a lithium iron phosphate—LiFePO4—battery. The process is divided into four different working points, alternating charging, discharging and resting periods. This work proposes a hybrid classifier, based on one-class techniques, whose aim is to detect anomalous situations during the battery test. The faults are created by modifying the measured cell temperature a slight ratio from their real value. A detailed analysis of each technique performance is presented. The average performance of the chosen classifier presents successful results.
Performance of a Rapid Diagnostic Test for Influenza in a Tertiary Military Hospital, Philippines
Authors: Velasco John Mark , Valderama Maria Theresa , Diones Paula Corazon , Navarro Fatima Claire , Develos Maribel , Lopez Ma. Nila , Liao Cynthia , Chua Domingo , Macareo Louis , Fernandez Stefan
Published: January 2021

Introduction

It is important to evaluate the performance of existing rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) and the factors that can affect performance especially when the circulation dynamics of influenza strains change such as the displacement and replacement of the circulating seasonal influenza strains.

Materials and Methods

Nasal swabs were collected from patients presenting at V Luna Medical Center, Armed Forces of the Philippines Health Service Command, with influenza-like illness (ILI) with one swab tested using Quickvue (QV) influenza A+B RIDT (Quidel) and the other swab tested using the ABI 7500 (Applied Biosystems) real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were estimated. We identified clinical symptoms predictive of influenza subtype and evaluated the independence of QV sensitivity on (1) Cycle threshold (Ct) value, controlling for timing of collection; (2) timing of collection, controlling for Ct value; and (3) Ct value and timing of collection taken together.

Results

Between August 2011 and October 2016, patients presenting with ILI (n = 2333) underwent testing. Quickvue sensitivity across all subtypes was significantly correlated with lower Ct values (higher virus titers) (P <.001) and, except for flu A/H3 (P = .974), was also significantly associated with timing of specimen collection (P <.05). No statistically significant difference was noted in QV sensitivity for Flu A/H3 (P = .130), pandemic H1/N1 (P = .207), Flu A/H3 + pandemic H1/N1 (P = .341), and Flu B (P = .103) across different age groups but sensitivity of QV significantly differed (P <.001) across the different influenza subtypes.

Conclusion

Overall specificity of QV was high across all flu subtypes, but overall sensitivity was low (Flu A/pdm H1) to moderate (Flu A/H3 and Flu B). The findings highlight the need to develop more sensitive influenza RDTs to detect circulating influenza strains and the use of the quadrivalent flu vaccine during the annual influenza vaccination.
Exploring the diversity of double-detonation explosions for Type Ia supernovae: effects of the post-explosion helium shell composition
Authors: Magee M R , Maguire K , Kotak R , Sim S A
Published: January 2021

The detonation of a helium shell on top of a carbon–oxygen white dwarf has been argued as a potential explosion mechanism for Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia). The ash produced during helium shell burning can lead to light curves and spectra that are inconsistent with normal SNe Ia, but may be viable for some objects showing a light-curve bump within the days following explosion. We present a series of radiative transfer models designed to mimic predictions from double-detonation explosion models. We consider a range of core and shell masses, and systematically explore multiple post-explosion compositions for the helium shell. We find that a variety of luminosities and time-scales for early light-curve bumps result from those models with shells containing 56Ni, 52Fe, or 48Cr. Comparing our models to SNe Ia with light-curve bumps, we find that these models can reproduce the shapes of almost all of the bumps observed, but only those objects with red colours around maximum light (B − V ≳ 1) are well matched throughout their evolution. Consistent with previous works, we also show that those models in which the shell does not contain iron-group elements provide good agreement with normal SNe Ia of different luminosities from shortly after explosion up to maximum light. While our models do not amount to positive evidence in favour of the double-detonation scenario, we show that provided the helium shell ash does not contain iron-group elements, it may be viable for a wide range of normal SNe Ia.
Anatomy of noncovalent interactions between the nucleobases or ribose and π-containing amino acids in RNA–protein complexes
Authors: Wilson Katie A , Kung Ryan W , D’souza Simmone , Wetmore Stacey D
Published: January 2021

A set of >300 nonredundant high-resolution RNA–protein complexes were rigorously searched for π-contacts between an amino acid side chain (W, H, F, Y, R, E and D) and an RNA nucleobase (denoted π–π interaction) or ribose moiety (denoted sugar–π). The resulting dataset of >1500 RNA–protein π-contacts were visually inspected and classified based on the interaction type, and amino acids and RNA components involved. More than 80% of structures searched contained at least one RNA–protein π-interaction, with π–π contacts making up 59% of the identified interactions. RNA–protein π–π and sugar–π contacts exhibit a range in the RNA and protein components involved, relative monomer orientations and quantum mechanically predicted binding energies. Interestingly, π–π and sugar–π interactions occur more frequently with RNA (4.8 contacts/structure) than DNA (2.6). Moreover, the maximum stability is greater for RNA–protein contacts than DNA–protein interactions. In addition to highlighting distinct differences between RNA and DNA–protein binding, this work has generated the largest dataset of RNA–protein π-interactions to date, thereby underscoring that RNA–protein π-contacts are ubiquitous in nature, and key to the stability and function of RNA–protein complexes.
Neurocognitive impairment, employment, and social status in radiotherapy-treated adult survivors of childhood brain tumors
Authors: Remes Tiina M , Hovén Emma , Ritari Niina , Pohjasniemi Heli , Puosi Riina , Arikoski Pekka M , Arola Mikko O , Lähteenmäki Päivi M , Lönnqvist Tuula R I , Ojaniemi Marja K , Riikonen V Pekka , Sirkiä Kirsti H , Winqvist Satu , Rantala Heikki M J , Harila Marika , Harila-Saari Arja H
Published: January 2021

Background

Little is known of the cognitive functions, employment, and social status in adult survivors of childhood brain tumor (BT). We aimed to determine the long-term neurocognitive profile of radiotherapy-treated adult survivors of childhood BT and the relationship between cognitive functions and employment and social status.

Methods

Neurocognitive profiles of survivors were assessed in a Finnish national cohort of 71 radiotherapy-treated survivors of childhood BT (median follow-up time: 21 years [range: 5-33 years]) using a cross-sectional design. Neurocognitive outcomes were compared to control (n = 45) and normative values. Tumor- and treatment-related data were collected from the patient files. Information on employment and social status was gathered.

Results

Survivors’ (median age: 27 years [range: 16-43 years]) median verbal and performance intelligence quotient (IQ) was 90 (range: 49-121) and 87 (range: 43-119), respectively. The cognitive domains with the greatest impairment were executive functions (median z score, −3.5 SD [range: −25.0 to 1.3 SD]), and processing speed and attention (median z score, −2.5 SD [range: −24.9 to 0.5 SD]). Executive functions were associated with employment, educational level, living independently, having an intimate relationship, and having a driving license. Processing speed and attention were related to educational level, living independently, having an intimate relationship, and having a driving license. Performance IQ was associated with educational level and employment status. Working memory was associated with educational level and living independently.

Conclusions

Radiotherapy-treated adult survivors of childhood BT experience significant neurocognitive impairment, which is associated with difficulties related to employment and social status.
When aggregation-induced emission meets protein aggregates
Authors: Tang Sicheng , Ye Songtao , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2021

There is an unmet demand for research tools to monitor the multistep protein aggregation process in live cells, a process that has been associated with a growing number of human diseases. Recently, AIEgens have been developed to directly monitor the entire protein aggregation process in test tubes and live cells. Future application of AIEgens is expected to shed light on both diagnosis and treatment of disease rooted in protein aggregation.
Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Posterior Sacroiliac Joint Complex Pain: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Yang Aaron J , Wagner Graham , Burnham Taylor , McCormick Zachary L , Schneider Byron J
Published: January 2021

Radiofrequency ablation of the sacral lateral branches targets the innervation of the posterior sacroiliac ligaments and posterior portion of the sacroiliac joint. These structures are also collectively referred to as the posterior sacroiliac joint complex. This review will discuss current diagnostic block paradigms and selection criteria for sacral lateral branch radiofrequency ablation, varying techniques and technologies utilized for sacral lateral branch radiofrequency ablation, and updates on the clinical outcome literature. The current evidence suggests that sacral lateral branch radiofrequency ablation can provide relief for posterior sacroiliac joint complex pain, but the literature is limited by variability in selection criteria, the specific nerves targeted by radiofrequency ablation, and the types of radiofrequency ablation technology and techniques utilized in clinical outcome studies.
Happiness, quality of life and their determinants among people with systemic sclerosis: a structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Santiago Tânia , Santos Eduardo , Duarte Ana Catarina , Martins Patrícia , Sousa Marlene , Guimarães Francisca , Azevedo Soraia , Ferreira Raquel Miriam , Guerra Miguel , Cordeiro Ana , Cordeiro Inês , Pimenta Sofia , Pinto Patrícia , Pinto Ana Margarida , Salvador Maria João , Silva José António P da
Published: January 2021

Background

Patients’ objectives and experiences must be core to the study and management of chronic diseases, such as SSc. Although patient-reported outcomes are attracting increasing attention, evaluation of the impact of disease on the overall subjective well-being, equivalent to ‘happiness’, is remarkably lacking.

Objectives

To examine the determinants of happiness and quality of life in patients with SSc, with emphasis on disease features and personality traits.

Methods

Observational, cross-sectional multicentre study, including 142 patients, with complete data regarding disease activity, disease impact, personality, health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) and happiness. Structural equation modelling was used to evaluate the association between the variables.

Results

The results indicated an acceptable fit of the model to the data. Perceived disease impact had a significant negative direct relation with HR-QoL (β = −0.79, P < 0.001) and with happiness (β = −0.52, P < 0.001). Positive personality traits had a positive relation with happiness (β = 0.36, P = 0.002) and an important indirect association upon QoL (β = 0.43) and happiness (β = 0.23). Perceived disease impact is influenced by body image, fatigue and SSc-related disability to a higher degree (β = 0.6–0.7) than by disease activity (β = 0.28) or form (β = 0.17). Impact of disease had a much stronger relation with HR-QoL than with happiness.

Conclusions

The results suggest that treatment strategies targeting not only disease control but also the mitigation of relevant domains of disease impact (body image, fatigue, global disability) may be important to improve patients’ experience of the disease. The reinforcement of resilience factors, such as positive psychological traits, may also play a contributory role towards better patient outcomes.
Toxicological evaluation of aqueous extract of the traditional Chinese formula Qing Hao Gan Cao
Authors: Li Yongchun , Zhang Hui , Chen Shanshan , Zhao Liutao , Wu Jie , Li Pan , Wu Guanlian , Wang Qing , Wu Chunli , Xu Hongde
Published: January 2021

Qing Hao Gan Cao (QHGC), a Chinese medicinal formula containing Artemisia annua and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, has been used to treat sunstroke and as an antiviral agent for more than 800 years. It has not previously been subject to a toxicological safety evaluation in acute and subacute (28 days) studies. Therefore, the acute and subacute toxicity of an aqueous extract of QHGC were evaluated in vivo. For the QHGC preparation, the botanical raw materials were crushed into pieces and mixed in the ratio of 10:1 in distilled water for 12 h, then boiling three times for 2 h each time. The three decoctions were mixed and filtered, then spray-dried with hot air at 160°C for 30 min, and stored at room temperature. For the acute toxicity test, 72.0 g/kg of QHGC extract was administered by gavage to male and female mice. Body weight, general observations, and autopsy results were recorded. No mortality or toxicity signs were observed during the studies. For the subacute toxicity test, 4.0, 8.0, or 16.0 g/kg/day of QHGC extract was administered to rats for 28 days. General observations and mortality, body weight, biochemical and hematological parameters, organ weight, and pathological morphology were analyzed. The acute and subacute toxicity studies did not show significant changes in body weight, general observations, hematology and biochemical parameters, organ weight, and liver, spleen, stomach, duodenum, testis, ovary, lung, heart, and kidney histopathological analyses. The consumption of QHGC aqueous extract can be considered safe within the conditions of this study.
Ear and Hearing Care Workforce: Current Status and its Implications
Authors: Kamenov Kaloyan , Martinez Ricardo , Kunjumen Teena , Chadha Shelly
Published: January 2021

Objective:

This study aimed to provide comprehensive global evidence on the availability of ear and hearing care (EHC) professionals and real-life examples that showcase the impact of workforce shortages on the workload faced by existing professionals.

Methods:

Six sources of data were used to estimate availability of EHC workforce: a scoping literature review, World Health Organization (WHO) National Health Workforce Accounts platform, WHO Member States survey and regional consultations, hearing care organizations survey, and official government statistics. EHC professionals’ workload undertaking common interventions was estimated through the WHO workload indicators of staffing need human resource management tool.

Results:

With data on otolaryngologists from 138, audiologists from 102, speech and language therapists from 124, and teachers of the deaf from 86 countries, this study revealed large gaps in availability of EHC cadres. The majority of countries in the African region had less than one professional in each cadre per million in comparison with most European countries having up to 50 times higher densities. Workload indicators of staffing need calculations revealed the challenging workload faced by existing EHC professionals, with ratios between existing and required staff of 0.01–0.86.

Conclusion:

There is an enormous shortage of EHC professionals and urgent actions are needed to ensure sufficient and equitable access to services. Task sharing, a novel approach for improving access to hearing care alongside the development of new cadres, can be a vital strategy in overcoming the shortage of highly qualified providers in many settings, even in well-resourced health systems, to facilitate equitable access to required EHC services.
Difference in Pain, Complication Rates, and Clinical Outcomes After Suprapatellar Versus Infrapatellar Nailing for Tibia Fractures? A Systematic Review of 1447 Patients
Authors: Bleeker Nils Jan , Reininga Inge H. F. , van de Wall Bryan J. M. , Hendrickx Laurent A. M. , Beeres Frank J. P. , Duis Kaj ten , Doornberg Job N. , Jaarsma Ruurd L. , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J. , IJpma Frank F. A.
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

To assess the effectiveness of suprapatellar (SP)-nailing versus infrapatellar (IP)-nailing of tibia fractures in anterior knee pain, complications (retropatellar chondropathy, infection, and malalignment) and physical functioning and quality of life. A clinical question-driven and thorough systematic review of current literature is provided.

Data source:

PubMed and Embase databases were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2020 relating to SP and IP-nailing of tibia fractures. The study is performed in concordance with PRISMA-guidelines.

Study selection:

Studies eligible for inclusion were randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective observational studies reporting on outcomes of interest.

Data extraction:

Data extraction was performed independently by 2 assessors. Methodological quality and risk of bias was assessed according to the guidelines of the McMaster Critical Appraisal.

Data synthesis:

Continuous variables are presented as means with SD and dichotomous variables as frequency and percentages. The weighted mean, standardized weighted mean differences, and 95% confidence interval were calculated. A pooled analysis could not be performed because of differences in outcome measures, time-points, and heterogeneity.

Results:

Fourteen studies with 1447 patients were analyzed. The weighted incidence of anterior knee pain was 29% after SP-nailing and 39% after IP-nailing, without reported significance. There was a significant lower rate of malalignment after the SP-approach (4% vs. 26%) with small absolute differences in all planes. No substantial differences were observed in retropatellar chondropathy, infection, physical functioning, and quality of life.

Conclusions:

This systematic review does not reveal superiority of either technique in any of the respective outcomes of interest. Definitive choice should depend on the surgeon's experience and available resources.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
External Validation of the Radiographic Investigation of the Distal Extension of Fractures Into the Articular Surface of the Tibia (RIDEFAST Study)
Authors: Rane Ajinkya , Jacobson Lance Glen , Kellam Patrick , Marchand Lucas Scott , Working Zachary M. , Steimle Jerrod A. , Higgins Thomas F. , Rothberg David Lynn , Weber Timothy G. , Haller Justin
Published: January 2021

Objective:

To test the external validity of the fracture to plafond (FTP—length of fracture/distance to plafond) ratio to rule out distal intra-articular fractures (DIA) in distal tibial shaft fractures at an independent tertiary trauma center.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Two Level 1 trauma centers.

Patients:

Two hundred seventeen patients with a distal tibial shaft fracture in the model cohort and 146 patients in the validation cohort.

Intervention:

Radiographic measurements to calculate FTP ratio.

Main Outcome Measurements:

Calibration plots, area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and decision curve analyses to evaluate the external validity of FTP ratio to determine DIA.

Results:

The AUC for the anteroposterior (AP) FTP ratio was 0.83 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.78–0.88] in the model data set and 0.86 (95% CI 0.80–0.91) in the validation data set. The AUC for the lateral FTP ratio was 0.82 (95% CI 0.77–0.87) in the model data set and 0.82 (95% CI 0.75–0.88) in the validation data set. The previously established AP FTP cutoff ratio of 0.61 had a 94% negative predictive value in the model cohort and a 100% negative predictive value in the validation cohort.

Conclusion:

The FTP ratio is an effective and externally validated screening tool to rule out DIA in distal tibia shaft fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Diagnostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Cartilaginous Dorsum Repositioning Technique
Authors: Azimov Gorkhmaz
Published: January 2021

Background:

Hump (dorsum) reduction is one of the most desired outcomes of primary rhinoplasty. However, serious complications relating to the current methods exist. Reduction of the nasal spine by way of traditional rhinoplasty leads to destruction of the nasal anatomy, and reconstruction is needed for aesthetic and functional reasons. As a result, the natural anatomy of the nose becomes altered dramatically. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate that the preservation of only the cartilaginous part of the nasal dorsum was possible during hump reduction.

Methods:

From September 2018 to December 2019, the author performed a total of 210 rhinoplasties using a cartilaginous dorsum repositioning technique (CDRT). Statistical analysis was also performed.

Results:

CDRT resulted in relatively limited edema and more rapid patient recovery in comparison with the traditional rhinoplasty technique used. No serious complications were observed using this new technique.

Conclusions:

This technique allows for the treatment of almost 90% of primary rhinoplasty patients, without destruction of the cartilaginous portion of the nasal dorsum and septum cartilage, and allows us to save nasal anatomy almost in its entirety. At the same time, we are able to obtain great aesthetic results.
Recalcitrant Anaphylaxis Associated with Fibrin Sealant: Treatment with “TISSEEL-ectomy”
Authors: Saffarzadeh Mohammadali , Mulpuri Anvith , Arneja Jugpal S.
Published: January 2021

Here, we present the case of an adolescent male who developed a severe allergic reaction 10 minutes after application of TISSEEL fibrin sealant to control bleeding during a gynecomastia revision surgery. Conventional treatments of acute hypersensitivity were ineffective. After a “tisseel-ectomy,” the patient’s condition improved and symptoms resolved. Besides oral tranexamic acid, and topical and local anaesthesia, no other medications besides TISSEEL were administered preceding the allergic reaction. After TISSEEL was identified as the allergen upon its removal, his clinical status improved. The patient had been exposed to TISEEL 15 months before the anaphylactic episode. This case can aid in decision-making for surgical re-exposure to fibrin sealants in the setting of acute anaphylaxis.
Partial-Thickness Intrastromal Lamellar Keratoplasty for Corneal Pellucid Marginal Degeneration
Authors: Gonçalves Thiago B. , Nosé Angela F. B. , Pereira Nicolas C. , Forseto Adriana dos S.
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD) is a bilateral corneal ectatic disorder, characterized by thinning of the inferior cornea. Numerous surgical procedures have been described in the literature, and there is a lack of consensus regarding the best available surgical management. Recently, full-thickness intrastromal lamellar keratoplasty (ILK) was described as an option for treating PMD and emerged as a promising technique. However, ILK results in an irregular surface, leading to a significant residual against-therule (ATR) astigmatism.

Methods:

This study describes a variation of the ILK technique, using a partial-thickness graft to treat 2 cases of PMD.

Results:

At the final follow-up, both patients improved visual acuity and had their mean simulated keratometry flattened, although a residual ATR astigmatism remained.

Conclusions:

The ILK technique modification might lead to a more regular thickness pattern, although it did not seem efficient in reducing the ATR astigmatism.