bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coverless Video Steganography Based on Audio and Frame Features
Authors: Zhang Chunhu , Tan Yun , Qin Jiaohua , Xiang Xuyu
Published: April 2022

The coverless steganography based on video has become a research hot spot recently. However, the existing schemes usually hide secret information based on the single-frame feature of video and do not take advantage of other rich features. In this work, we propose a novel coverless steganography, which makes full use of the audio and frame image features of the video. First, three features are extracted to obtain hash bit sequences, which include DWT (discrete wavelet transform) coefficients and short-term energy of audio and the SIFT (scale-invariant feature transformation) feature of frame images. Then, we build a retrieval database according to the relationship between the generated bit sequences and three features of the corresponding videos. The sender divides the secret information into segments and sends the corresponding retrieval information and carrier videos to the receiver. The receiver can use the retrieval information to recover the secret information from the carrier videos correspondingly. The experimental results show that the proposed method can achieve larger capacity, less time cost, higher hiding success rate, and stronger robustness compared with the existing coverless steganography schemes based on the video.
Mechanical and Durability Characteristics of TiO2 and Al2O3 Nanoparticles with Sisal Fibers
Authors: Rajkumar R. , Nirmala R. , Vivekananthan V.
Published: April 2022

The use of nanoparticles in concrete increases the material’s strength and durability, making it useful in the building sector. Nanomaterials can lower the amount of cement in a building since cement releases carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming. The mechanical response of concrete is studied in this study by replacing cement with various dosages of nanotitanium dioxide and nanoalumina. Nanotechnology has attracted a lot of attention in recent years because of its potential uses for particles. Cementitious materials at the nano/atomic level are the primary focus of current research. The mechanical characteristics of cementitious materials have been significantly improved by introducing nanotitanium dioxide and nanoalumina into cement. Nanotitanium dioxide and nanoalumina have been added to concrete in this study to examine its sorptivity and water absorption properties. To lower the carbon footprint of concrete, nanotitanium dioxide and nanoalumina can be used in place of cement.
PM2.5 Exposure and Asthma Development: The Key Role of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Liu Kaimeng , Hua Shucheng , Song Lei
Published: April 2022

Oxidative stress is defined as the imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the endogenous antioxidant defense system, leading to cellular damage. Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory airway disease. The presence of asthma tends to increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the antioxidant system in the lungs is insufficient to mitigate it. Therefore, asthma can lead to an exacerbation of airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation. PM2.5 exposure increases ROS levels. Meanwhile, the accumulation of ROS will further enhance the oxidative stress response, resulting in DNA, protein, lipid, and other cellular and molecular damage, leading to respiratory diseases. An in-depth study on the relationship between oxidative stress and PM2.5-related asthma is helpful to understand the pathogenesis and progression of the disease and provides a new direction for the treatment of the disease. This paper reviews the research progress of oxidative stress in PM2.5-induced asthma as well as highlights the therapeutic potentials of antioxidant approaches in treatment of asthma.
Investigation of Hong Kong Students’ Esports Participation Intentions Using the Theory of Planned Behavior Approach: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Chung Pak-Kwong , Ou Kai-ling , Wong Ming Yu Claudia , Lau Ka-Lai , Leung Ka-Man
Published: April 2022

Esports have grown to become a core part of popular culture in many countries, including Hong Kong. Albeit the low participation rates in Esports in Hong Kong, it was starting to gain traction, yet the local Esports advocates were experiencing challenges in promoting and popularizing the Esport. Hence, the current study was aimed to identify and reveal the determinants of participating in Esports, as well as strengthen the work on Esports behaviors using the theory of planned behavior (TPB), a reliable and valid prominent theory in predicting human behavior across a plethora of contexts, ranging from health-related behaviors to sport consumption behaviors. In the current study, the convenience sampling method was used to recruit over 2000 students (secondary school,

N
=
1567

(

female
=
615

); university students,

N
=
1525

(

female
=
255

). The students were invited to participate in the survey for collecting their perception on Esports participation using TPB-based questionnaire. Results were analyzed using theoretical analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results show that both secondary school and university students have positive attitudes toward Esports. The outcomes indicated that participating in Esports develops social networks, and people with professional Esports’ skills capability and being fortitude tend to be models of Esports participation. However, inadequate resources are a significant barrier to participation in the Esports business. The SEM model verified that the variables of intention in Esports participation among the students in Hong Kong with an adequate goodness of fit index. As a whole, the current study has identified the factors and determinants of Esports’ intention and behavior among Hong Kong students, which were successfully displayed in terms of the theory of planned behavior. In addition, the findings are expected to provide the Hong Kong government with a documented framework to advocate Esports-related policies on a long-term basis.
The Benzylation of p‐Xylene Using ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles as Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Linh Nguyen Le My , Giang Ho Thi Bao , Thang Le Quoc , Tien Tran Dong , Thu Nguyen Thi Anh , Duong Tran , Van Duc Hoang , Hoa Le Thi , Nguyen Vo Thang , Nhiem Dao Ngoc , Khieu Dinh Quang
Published: April 2022

In this paper, ZnFe2O4 nanomaterial synthesized in different solvents by hydrothermal method was used as catalyst for the benzylation of p‐xylene. ZnFe2O4 catalyst was characterized by XRD, EDX, SEM and nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms. The influence of various parameters in the benzylation of p‐xylene such as the Fe content of the prepared materials, the ratio molar of p‐xylene/benzyl chloride, the catalyst dosage, and the temperature was investigated. The relationship between adsorption kinetics and reaction kinetics of p‐xylene benzylation over ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles was discussed. The results indicated that ZnFe2O4 catalyst synthesized in ethylene glycol (ZFO‐EG) showed high conversation for the benzylation of p‐xylene. The reusability of the ZFO‐EG catalyst was also investigated.
Reactive Oxygen Species and Oxidative Stress in Vascular-Related Diseases
Authors: Cheng Xin-Meng , Hu Yu-Yuan , Yang Tao , Wu Nan , Wang Xue-Ning
Published: April 2022

Oxidative stress (OS) refers to the enhancement of oxidation and the decreased of related antioxidant enzymes activity under pathological conditions, resulting in relatively excess reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing cytotoxicity, which leads to tissue damage and is linked to neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers, and many other pathologies. As an important intracellular signaling molecule, ROS can regulate numerous physiological actions, such as vascular reactivity and neuronal function. According to several studies, the uncontrolled production of ROS is related to vascular injury. The growing evidence revealing how traditional risk factors translate into ROS and lead to vasculitis and other vascular diseases. In this review, we sought to mainly discuss the role of ROS and antioxidant mechanisms in vascular-related diseases, especially cardiovascular and common macrovascular diseases.
Patient-Derived Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Organoids Provide Robust Model Systems That Recapitulate Tumor Intrinsic Characteristics
Authors: Bhatia Sonam , Kramer Melissa , Russo Suzanne , Naik Payal , Arun Gayatri , Brophy Kyle , Andrews Peter , Fan Cheng , Perou Charles M. , Preall Jonathan , Ha Taehoon , Plenker Dennis , Tuveson David A. , Rishi Arvind , Wilkinson John E. , McCombie W. Richard , Kostroff Karen , Spector David L.
Published: April 2022

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of breast cancer with poor patient outcomes, highlighting the unmet clinical need for targeted therapies and better model systems. Here, we developed and comprehensively characterized a diverse biobank of normal and breast cancer patient-derived organoids (PDO) with a focus on TNBCs. PDOs recapitulated patient tumor intrinsic properties and a subset of PDOs can be propagated for long-term culture (LT-TNBC). Single cell profiling of PDOs identified cell types and gene candidates affiliated with different aspects of cancer progression. The LT-TNBC organoids exhibit signatures of aggressive MYC-driven, basal-like breast cancers and are largely comprised of luminal progenitor (LP)-like cells. The TNBC LP-like cells are distinct from normal LPs and exhibit hyperactivation of NOTCH and MYC signaling. Overall, this study validates TNBC PDOs as robust models for understanding breast cancer biology and progression, paving the way for personalized medicine and tailored treatment options.

Significance:

A comprehensive analysis of patient-derived organoids of TNBC provides insights into cellular heterogeneity and mechanisms of tumorigenesis at the single-cell level.
Understanding Racial and Ethnic Inequities in Uptake and Outcomes Following Multigene Prognostic Testing in Early Breast Cancer: The Promise of Real-World Data
Authors: Wang Xiaoliang , Cho-Phan Cheryl D. , Hoskins Kent F. , Calip Gregory S.
Published: April 2022

In the past decades, multigene prognostic testing, such as Oncotype DX (ODX), has been increasingly used to inform treatment decisions for patients with early-stage breast cancer. This advance in precision oncology has increased existing concerns about differential access to genomic testing across racial and ethnic groups. The investigation by Moore and colleagues, analyzing real-world data from the National Cancer Database, shows that patients of color with breast cancer were less likely to receive ODX testing and Black patients were more likely to have a high risk Recurrence Score (RS) compared with White patients. This study emphasizes that the appropriate adoption of ODX testing is critical to promote equitable cancer care for patients with breast cancer. The reported associations on overall survival across specific racial and ethnic groups provided here give additional insight to the known associations between the ODX RS and outcomes of distant recurrence and cancer-specific mortality. Analyses of contemporary, real-world data from diverse populations with long-term follow-up should continue to keep pace with the expansion of precision breast cancer care to better understand and mitigate potentially widening inequities in genomic testing.

See related article by Moore et al., p. 821
Colonoscopy Findings in FIT+ and mt-sDNA+ Patients versus in Colonoscopy-only Patients: New Hampshire Colonoscopy Registry Data
Authors: Anderson Joseph C. , Robinson Christina M. , Hisey William , Limburg Paul J. , Butterly Lynn F.
Published: April 2022

Few studies compare fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and multi-target stool DNA (mt-sDNA) outcomes in practice. We compared colonoscopy yield following FIT+ or mt-sDNA+ tests to colonoscopies without preceding stool tests in the comprehensive population-based New Hampshire Colonoscopy Registry (NHCR). Outcomes were any neoplasia and an ordered outcome: adenocarcinoma, advanced neoplasia (adenoma/serrated polyp ≥ 1 cm/villous/high-grade dysplasia), nonadvanced neoplasia, or normal. Our total sample included 306 mt-sDNA+ (average age ± SD 67.0 ± 7.9), 276 FIT+ (66.6 ± 8.7), and 50,990 colonoscopy-only patients (61.8 ± 8.1). Among average-risk patients (N = 240 mt-sDNA+, N = 194 FIT+, N = 26,221 colonoscopy only), mt-sDNA+ patients had a higher risk for any neoplasia (67.1%) compared with FIT+ (54.6%, P = 0.00098) or colonoscopy (40.8%, P < 0.0001). Severity of findings and histology subtypes differed across the three groups (P < 0.0001 for both), with a higher yield of advanced findings in mt-sDNA+ patients. In particular, clinically relevant serrated polyps (hyperplastic polyps ≥10 mm/traditional serrated adenomas/sessile serrated polyps) were detected at a higher frequency in mt-sDNA+ patients as compared with FIT+ or colonoscopy-only patients. Even after adjustment, patients with positive mt-sDNA [OR = 2.82; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.00–4.02] or FIT+ tests (OR = 1.67; 95% CI, 1.19–2.36) were more likely to have histologically more advanced findings than colonoscopy alone. At follow-up colonoscopy, mt-sDNA+ tests were more likely to predict neoplasia than FIT+, largely due to increased detection of serrated polyps.

Prevention Relevance: Colorectal cancer screening options include colonoscopy and stool-based tests, including the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and the multi-target stool DNA (mt-sDNA) test which, if positive, must be followed by a colonoscopy. Assessing “real-world” outcomes of colonoscopies following positive stool tests can inform their clinical use.

See related Spotlight, p. 417
Classification ofKRAS-Activating Mutations and the Implications for Therapeutic Intervention
Authors: Johnson Christian , Burkhart Deborah L. , Haigis Kevin M.
Published: April 2022

Members of the family of RAS proto-oncogenes, discovered just over 40 years ago, were among the first cancer-initiating genes to be discovered. Of the three RAS family members, KRAS is the most frequently mutated in human cancers. Despite intensive biological and biochemical study of RAS proteins over the past four decades, we are only now starting to devise therapeutic strategies to target their oncogenic properties. Here, we highlight the distinct biochemical properties of common and rare KRAS alleles, enabling their classification into functional subtypes. We also discuss the implications of this functional classification for potential therapeutic avenues targeting mutant subtypes.

Significance:

Efforts in the recent past to inhibit KRAS oncogenicity have focused on kinases that function in downstream signal transduction cascades, although preclinical successes have not translated to patients with KRAS-mutant cancer. Recently, clinically effective covalent inhibitors of KRASG12C have been developed, establishing two principles that form a foundation for future efforts. First, KRAS is druggable. Second, each mutant form of KRAS is likely to have properties that make it uniquely druggable.
Vive la Résistance: T-cell Immunity in the Protection against SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: McGary Lisa H.F. , Vardhana Santosha A.
Published: April 2022

Fahrner and colleagues investigated the immune response of patients with cancer and cancer-free individuals to SARS-CoV-2 and found that a propensity toward an IL5-predominant Th2/Tc2 response was predictive of susceptibility to infection. The results of this study also suggest that a cellular response against the Spike 1 protein receptor binding domain (S1-RBD) region of the SARS-CoV-2 proteome contributes to protection and that mutations in this region may drive viral evolution and immune escape.

See related article by Fahrner et al., p. 958 (8).
Efficient Algorithms Unlock Understanding of Clonal Evolution in Cancer
Authors: Miller Christopher A.
Published: April 2022

In this issue of Blood Cancer Discovery, Wintersinger and colleagues present a new algorithm for quickly and accurately inferring clonal phylogenies from heterogeneous tumors sampled at many timepoints and/or many sites. When coupled with serial sequencing of tumors, this advance promises to increase our understanding of the clonal dynamics that shape tumor evolution and response to therapy.

See related article by Wintersinger et al., p. 208 (9).
Endoscopic Skills Training: The Impact of Virtual Exercises on Simulated Colonoscopy
Authors: Morato Rita , Tomé Luís , Dinis-Ribeiro Mário , Rolanda Carla
Published: April 2022

Background: A previous study suggested that psychomotor training improves the performance on colonoscopy. Since then, newer exercises have been included in the latest generation of GI Mentor®. In order to optimize a colonoscopy training program, we aimed to determine the impact of 3 virtual exercises in simulated colonoscopy skills. Methods: This was a prospective and randomized study. Nineteen residents completed a pre-training questionnaire and a colonoscopy trial before randomization in a study group (n = 10) that performed three exercises (Endobubble I, Navigation I, and Mucosal Evaluation I) until they achieved expert level, and a control group (n = 9). Both groups performed 10 repetitions of a simulated colonoscopy and were assessed on a final case. Learning curves and skills transfer were assessed by four parameters: mucosal surface examined (%), time to reach the cecum (s), screening efficiency (%), and time the patient was in pain (%). We also evaluated the construct validity for the exercises. Results: Construct validity was confirmed for Endobubble I and verified in Navigation I (experts were faster than novices; 5 vs. 7 s, p = 0.040), but not for Mucosal Evaluation I. Analyzing the learning curves and performance in the 10 repetitions, the study group reached the cecum faster (278 vs. 356 s, p = 0.035) and achieved a higher screening efficiency (83% vs. 75%, p = 0.019). Concerning skills transfer, the control group took longer to reach the cecum (241 vs. 292 s, p = 0.021) and the percentage of time the patient was in pain was higher (6% vs. 9%, p = 0.021). General performances of the study group had smaller interquartile variations. Conclusion: Psychomotor training has a significant impact on the homogeneous acquisition and assimilation of colonoscopy skills. Endobubble I and Navigation I should be considered in the training programs for novices.
Establishment of Zebrafish Models for Diabetes Mellitus and Its Microvascular Complications
Authors: Chen Changsheng , Liu Dong
Published: April 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease known to cause several microvascular complications, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and diabetic neuropathy. Hyperglycemia plays a key role in inducing diabetic microvascular complications. A cohort of diabetic animal models has been established to study diabetes-related vascular diseases. However, the zebrafish model offers unique advantages in this field. The tiny size and huge offspring numbers of zebrafish make it amenable to perform large-scale analysis or screening. The easily accessible strategies for gene manipulation with morpholino or CRISPR/Cas9 and chemical/drug treatment through microinjection or skin absorption allow establishing the zebrafish DM models by a variety of means. In addition, the transparency of zebrafish embryos makes it accessible to perform in vivo high-resolution imaging of the vascular system. In this review, we focus on the strategies to establish diabetic or hyperglycemic models with zebrafish and the achievements and disadvantages of using zebrafish as a model to study diabetic microvascular complications.
Microarray Analysis Confirms ImmunoCAP-Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay Results on Specific IgE in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis and Suspected Birch Pollen-Related Food Allergy
Authors: Wassmann-Otto Anja , Heratizadeh Annice , Wichmann Katja , Werfel Thomas
Published: April 2022

Background: Previous studies demonstrated that birch pollen-related foods can cause late eczematous responses in birch pollen-sensitized patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). However, suitable markers to predict birch pollen-related food allergy in patients with AD are still lacking. Objective: We evaluated the correlation of the results from ImmunoCAP® fluorescence enzyme immunoassay (FEIA) singleplex and ImmunoCAP® immuno solid-phase allergen chip (ISAC) multiplex system in AD patients and investigated the diagnostic validity of allergen microarray analysis, measuring specific IgE (sIgE) with ImmunoCAP® ISAC to predict birch pollen-related food allergy in patients with AD. Methods: A total of 19 children and adults with AD, existing IgE-mediated birch pollen sensitization, and suspected birch pollen-related food allergy underwent a double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) in the clinical routine. Total and sIgE levels to birch pollen, Bet v 1, Bet v 2, and birch pollen-related foods (apple, carrot, celery, and hazelnut) were determined prior to the DBPCFC by ImmunoCAP®-FEIA. Additionally, allergen microarray ImmunoCAP® ISAC analysis was performed. Data were analyzed retrospectively. Results: Twelve out of 19 patients (63% responders) experienced an allergic reaction upon DBPCFC. Overall, 7 patients (37%) developed a significant deterioration of AD with a median increase of 12.4 points in the scoring of atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) index (range 10.0–15.7). Oral allergy syndrome was the predominant immediate-type symptom (n = 11/12 responders). There were no differences in sensitization frequencies regarding allergens of the pathogenesis-related protein family 10 between responders and non-responders. In all patients, correlation of IgE levels determined with ImmunoCAP® ISAC and ImmunoCAP®-FEIA, respectively, was significant with high correlation coefficients regarding birch pollen allergen extract, rBet v 1, and rBet v 2 (rs > 0.8, p < 0.001) and lower but also significant correlation coefficients regarding food allergens (rs < 0.8, p < 0.05–<0.001). Conclusion: ImmunoCAP® ISAC microarray allows displaying a differentiated sensitization profile in birch pollen-sensitized patients with AD. However, IgE-mediated sensitization against birch pollen-related allergens revealed by the allergen multiplex system does not predict late eczematous reactions upon DBPCFC with birch pollen-related foods.
The Use of Fixation Suture to Treat Inferonasal Hypertrophic Bleb after Xen Gel Stent Implant: A Case Report
Authors: Pavičić-Astaloš Jasna , Ankamah Emmanuel , Nolan John M. , Ng Eugene , García-Feijoo Julian
Published: April 2022

We report a case of an inferonasal hypertrophic bleb complication which formed 5 months after Xen Gel Stent implantation for intraocular pressure (IOP) control in a primary open-angle glaucoma patient and its management using a fixation suture. The patient underwent an uneventful right-eye phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation combined with Xen Gel Stent ab interno implantation surgery. A month after the surgery, a second needling was performed due to a flat bleb and increased IOP. Post-needling slit-lamp examination showed a well-formed diffuse bleb in the superonasal quadrant. Two months after the needling, the patient presented with redness and irritation medially. Upon examination, a large inferonasal bleb was observed together with scarring of a previously formed superior bleb above the Xen Gel Stent implant. Fornix-based conjunctival incision technique was used to release the conjunctival scarring, and a fixation suture was used for the Xen implant in order to change the filtration direction. A Palmberg compression mattress suture was used to stop the inferior filtration. Despite an open conjunctiva surgical revision in the superior quadrant, no additional scaring was formed in the follow-up period of 20 months. There was good post-operative IOP control and formation of superiorly positioned bleb. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe the use of a fixation suture for treating inferonasal hypertrophic bleb as a late complication of Xen Gel Stent implantation surgery.
Intravitreal Triamcinolone Acetonide Presents a Diagnostic Challenge on Noncontrast Computed Tomography
Authors: Ahmad Kinza T. , Huynh Michelle L. , Raghu Ramakrishnaiah , Soliman Mohamed Kamel , Henry William , Sallam Ahmed
Published: April 2022

Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is a widely used corticosteroid for various ophthalmological indications. We report a case of a 27-year-old female presented with upper eyelid edema and punctate corneal erosions and haze of the left eye, 1 week after pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil (SO) tamponade and intravitreal TA for diabetic tractional retinal detachment. The condition persisted despite topical and systemic therapy. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the orbits was obtained to exclude postoperative SO migration. The scan showed a hyperintense lesion in the vitreous cavity of the left eye with no SO migration. The radiographic appearance of the lesion mimicked a foreign body; however, history and recent operative note excluded this possibility. A CT scan of various TA preparations revealed that the lesion’s density is similar to those of TA. Improvement of corneal haze confirmed that the lesion was consistent with intravitreal TA. The patient developed eyelid edema of the right eye and later was diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome after further investigation. In conclusion, it is important to be familiar with the radiographic appearance of TA on CT to avoid incorrect diagnosis.
New Synthetic Opioids Use among Patients in Treatment for an Opioid Use Disorder in Barcelona
Authors: Alías-Ferri Maria , Marchei Emilia , Pacifici Roberta , Pichini Simona , Pellegrini Manuela , Pérez-Mañá Clara , Papaseit Esther , Muga Roberto , Fonseca Francina , Farré Magi , Torrens Marta
Published: April 2022

Introduction: New synthetic opioids (NSO), a class of new psychoactive substances (NPS), have recently emerged and pose an upcoming global public health challenge. The effects produced by NSO are similar to those from morphine, but they present greater pharmacological potency and abuse potential. Due to the increasing number of fatal overdoses and seizures in which NSO have been detected as heroin substitutes or adulterants, individuals with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) represent a vulnerable population. The aim of our study was to describe and characterize from a gender perspective a Spanish cohort of potential conscious or unconscious NSO users. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a cohort of OUD participants under treatment in addiction care services in Barcelona and Badalona, Spain. Clinical evaluation was performed through an ad hoc survey, a scale to evaluate reasons to use an opioid without prescription (range 0–4) and the Wellbeing Index (WHO-5) (range 0–100). Objective consumption of NSO was assessed by urinalysis carried out by two validated methods: high-sensitivity gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (MS) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution MS. Results: A total of 154 participants with OUD were enrolled. They were mainly men (72.7%), mean age 47.8 years. Methadone was the predominant medication for opioid agonist treatment (mean dose 61.25 mg/day). A total of 32 (20.8%) participants reported having consumed some opioid to become “high” in the previous 3 months. The principal reasons for consuming illicit opioids were Replacing other drugs (mean 2.03) and Availability (mean 1.62), although Low price, was more highly valued by men (p = 0.045) and Shorter effect duration, most highly rated by women (p = <0.001). In the WHO-5, the mean score was 55 (SD = 30.1) without differences by gender. Fentanyl and derivatives or/and metabolites were detected in 7 (6.1%) participants, but illicit/non-prescribed NSOs were found in 5 out of 114 patients (4.4%), and other non-fentanyl opioids in 36 participants (26 men and 10 women). Conclusion: A non-negligible consumption of NSO-fentanyl’s (positive detection in 6.1% of biological samples) was detected. The reasons for using these substances and also the well-being differed between the genders. There is therefore both voluntary and involuntary NSO consumption in our country which highlights the importance of approaching this potential public health problem.
Total Knee Arthroplasty with Significant Osteolysis following Gore-Tex Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Recommendations on Reducing Risk of Arthroplasty Failure
Authors: Cosic Filip , Alexander Matthew
Published: April 2022

Synthetic substitutes for ligament reconstruction surgery have been widely used in orthopaedic surgery; however, many have been susceptible to mechanical failure and associated with osteolysis. A 58-year-old male underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for valgus knee osteoarthritis on the background of a Gore-Tex anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction over 30 years prior. Radiographic imaging preoperatively demonstrated extensive osteolysis, particularly on the tibial side. At the time of arthroplasty, the extent of osteolysis was noted to be greater than that on the preoperative imaging. The patient underwent a robotic-assisted TKA with the use of a cemented stemmed tibial prosthesis and bone grafting. The patient was prescribed a period of protected weightbearing following the procedure. Our recommendations for undertaking arthroplasty with a Gore-Tex graft in situ are as follows: (1) thorough preoperative workup including computed tomography imaging to identify tunnel widening and osteolysis; (2) ensure that additional bone allograft is available for the procedure; (3) use of cemented implants where there has been significant osteolysis; (4) removal of the entire synthetic graft with copious irrigation post-removal to ensure the joint does not remain exposed to particulate debris; (5) grafting of the tunnels and bone defects post-removal of synthetic graft; (6) use of a stemmed prosthesis to bypass any cortical defects and reduce the risk of subsidence of the component.
Proximate Cord Insertion in Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome: Case Series and PRISMA Compliant Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mustafa Hiba J. , Tadbiri Hooman , Pedersen Nicole , Harman Christopher , Turan Ozhan M.
Published: April 2022

Objective: We aimed to investigate the prevalence and clinical outcomes of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) with proximate cord insertions. Methods: This was retrospective cohort study of TTTS cases managed at single fetal center between 2012 and 2020. Presence of proximate cord insertions was defined as a distance of equal or less than 4 cm between placental cord insertions that was recorded based on sonographic and fetoscopic examinations. Clinical outcomes were investigated compared to unmatched cohort and to 1:2 matched controls using preoperative variables including Quintero staging, selective fetal growth restriction, anterior placenta, preoperative cervical length, and gestational age at fetal intervention. Systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRSMA guidelines through searching PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Medline databases from inception until January 2021. Results: The prevalence of proximate cord insertions in monochorionic placentas with TTTS was 2% (5/246). All 5 cases were managed by fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS). Procedure time was significantly longer (mean: 61.4 min in proximate cord vs. 37.5 min in nonproximate cord, p < 0.001), and amnioinfusion was significantly more common (100% in proximate cord vs. 43% in nonproximate cord, p = 0.01). Perinatal survival and neonatal outcomes were not different between groups. Similar findings were seen following 1:2 control matching. Systematic review yielded total of 19 case reports of which different management options were applied including FLS (n = 13), amniodrainage (n = 3), and selective reduction (n = 3). Clinical outcomes results were mixed and inconsistent. FLS was described as technically challenging and residual anastomosis was common. Overall fetal and neonatal survival following FLS was 85% and 80%, respectively. Conclusion: Presence of proximate cords in TTTS cases poses serious technical challenges even for highly experienced surgeons. Feasibility should be only determined by fetoscopic examination.
Association between HSPA5 Promoter Polymorphisms and a Reduced Risk of Normal Tension Glaucoma
Authors: Lee Chia Chi , Wang Tzu Chen , Wang Hsin Yu , Hsu Bin , Shih Rong Jhen , Lo Neng Wen , Wang Chun Yuan
Published: April 2022

Introduction: In normal tension glaucoma (NTG), factors other than elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) are likely to play a role in the pathogenesis of optic neuropathy. The potential similarities between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and NTG in cellular apoptosis leading to neurodegeneration have been shown in recent studies. Heat Shock Protein family A member 5 (HSPA5) promoter polymorphisms have been reported to be associated with a risk of AD. The purpose of our study was to investigate the role of HSPA5 promoter polymorphisms in NTG patients. Methods: A total of 222 patients with NTG, along with 236 normal controls were enrolled in this study. Genomic DNA was amplified through a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and identified for the polymorphic HSPA5 (−415 and −370) by Xmn1 and BstY1 restriction digestion, respectively. PCR fragments with potential polymorphic HSPA5 (−180) were subjected to sequence-analyses by a Hex-labeled primer. Genotypes for both NTG patients and control groups were compared for statistically significant differences. Results: Polymorphisms (−415) G/A and (−180) del/G were completely linked in our population. The genotype and allele frequency distribution at the −415 G/A and −180 del/G sites showed a significant difference between the NTG cases and controls. The genotype frequency of HSPA5 (−415) AA/(−180) GG and the allele frequency of HSPA5 (−415) A/(−180) G were significantly lower (p = 0.04 and p = 0.01, respectively) in the NTG patients when compared with those in the control group. There was no significant difference in genotype or allele frequency distribution of the HSPA5 (−370) C/T between the NTG and control groups. There was a reduced risk of NTG associated with the carriers for the HSPA5 (−415) A/(−180) G allele compared with that in the control population (p = 0.01). Conclusion: HSPA5 (−415) A and (−180) G allele polymorphisms may be protective factors in the development of NTG.
A Divina Comédia de Dante Alighieri: um percurso pelo Brasil do século XX
Authors: Cechinel Fernanda Moro
Published: April 2022

O presente texto é um dos frutos da pesquisa de doutorado, que vem sendo desenvolvida no Programa de Pós-graduação em Literatura (PPGLit) da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC). O objetivo desse texto é traçar o percurso percorrido pelas edições da Divina Comédia que foram publicadas, em português, no Brasil do século XX. Para isso, recorreu-se a materiais bibliográficos, destacando-se Laurence Hallewell (2017 [1985]) e Lucien Febvre e Henri-Jean Martin (2019), bem como, consulta nas próprias edições brasileiras da Divina Comédia, que nos forneceram pistas desse trajeto percorrido. As edições da Divina Comédia que foram consultadas estão catalogadas no Dicionário de Literatura Italiana Traduzida (DLIT). Das editoras que publicaram a obra de Dante, verifica-se que elas pertencem ao eixo sul-sudeste, com destaque para o Rio de Janeiro, berço do mercado editorial brasileiro. Outra característica é que essas editoras, na sua maioria, caracterizam-se pela publicação de livros didáticos e de baixo custo, possivelmente voltados a um público leitor menos exigente ou objetivando o consumo certo de tais obras.
Estimation of erosion and deposition by Unit Stream Power Erosion and Deposition in a sub-basin on the Mogi Guaçu River’s margins, municipality of Mogi Guaçu, SP, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Anna Hofmann , Klinke Neto Gustavo , Pereira Sueli Yoshinaga
Published: April 2022

Information regarding the soil erosive processes that comprise the detachment, transport and deposition, are essential when analyzing hydrological processes associated with the generation of the flow in the landscape and water recharge. The USPED (Unit Stream Power Erosion and Deposition) model has been applied in several regions around the world for providing more accurate estimates, since it adds a physical base that relates the relief morphology with the erosion-defining runoff parameters. The current study aims to analyze erosion and deposition using the USPED model in a sub-basin on Mogi Guaçu River’s margins, municipality of Mogi Guaçu, SP, Brazil, and generate subsidies for future diagnoses regarding areas in the region with greatercapacity for water storage, based on less erosion. The loss of mineral and organic particles arising from the erosive process changes the soil’s effective depth, texture and structure, directly and negatively impacting its capacity to absorb and retain water. 60% of the sub-basin’s area was unaffected by considerable processes of erosion and deposition, both due to the current arboreal vegetation, but also the smooth relief of the site. The erosion and deposition sites have totaled 23.42 and 15.76% of the sub-basin area respectively, being adjacent to one another and preferably near or within the drainage network. The results of the spatialization were validated by the Kappa Index and revealed that the UPSED model obtained an excellent agreement with the “ground truth”. Stability in terms of erosion, favors the water recharge in area, since the soils present a sandy texture and in addition, the Latossolos, which make up 63% of the sub-basin, are deep and possess a high water storage...
Cardiopulmonary Outcomes After the Nuss Procedure in Pectus Excavatum
Authors: Jaroszewski Dawn E. , Farina Juan M. , Gotway Michael B. , Stearns Joshua D. , Peterson Michelle A. , Pulivarthi Venkata S. K. K. , Bostoros Peter , Abdelrazek Ahmad S. , Gotimukul Ashwini , Majdalany David S. , Wheatley‐Guy Courtney M. , Arsanjani Reza
Published: April 2022

Background

Pectus excavatum is the most common chest wall deformity. There is still controversy about cardiopulmonary limitations of this disease and benefits of surgical repair. This study evaluates the impact of pectus excavatum on the cardiopulmonary function of adult patients before and after a modified minimally invasive repair.

Methods and Results

In this retrospective cohort study, an electronic database was used to identify consecutive adult (aged ≥18 years) patients who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing before and after primary pectus excavatum repair at Mayo Clinic Arizona from 2011 to 2020. In total, 392 patients underwent preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing; abnormal oxygen consumption results were present in 68% of patients. Among them, 130 patients (68% men, mean age, 32.4±10.0 years) had post‐repair evaluations. Post‐repair tests were performed immediately before bar removal with a mean time between repair and post‐repair testing of 3.4±0.7 years (range, 2.5–7.0). A significant improvement in cardiopulmonary outcomes (
P
<0.001 for all the comparisons) was seen in the post‐repair evaluations, including an increase in maximum, and predicted rate of oxygen consumption, oxygen pulse, oxygen consumption at anaerobic threshold, and maximal ventilation. In a subanalysis of 39 patients who also underwent intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography at repair and at bar removal, a significant increase in right ventricle stroke volume was found (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Consistent improvements in cardiopulmonary function were seen for pectus excavatum adult patients undergoing surgery. These results strongly support the existence of adverse cardiopulmonary consequences from this disease as well as the benefits of surgical repair.
Soluble ST2 Is a Sensitive and Specific Biomarker for Fulminant Myocarditis
Authors: Wang Jin , He Mengying , Li Huihui , Chen Yanghui , Nie Xiang , Cai Yuanyuan , Xie Rong , Li Lijuan , Chen Peng , Sun Yang , Li Chenze , Yu Ting , Zuo Houjuan , Cui Guanglin , Miao Kun , Zhao Chunxia , Jiang Jiangang , Heidecker Bettina , Barnett Olga , Maisel Alan , Chen Chen , Wang Dao Wen
Published: April 2022

Background

The aim of the study was to identify biomarkers that can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of fulminant myocarditis (FM) in order to reduce mortality.

Methods and Results

First, the expression profiles of circulating cytokines were determined in the plasma samples from 4 patients with FM and 4 controls using human cytokine arrays. The results showed that 39 cytokines from patients with FM were changed at admission. Among them, 8 cytokines returned to normal levels at discharge, including soluble ST2 (sST2), which showed the most marked dynamic changes from disease onset to resolution. Then, in a cohort of 76 patients with FM, 57 patients with acute hemodynamic dysfunction attributable to other causes, and 56 patients with non‐FM, receiver operating characteristic curve analyses suggested that plasma sST2 level was able to differentiate FM from non‐FM or other FM‐unrelated acute heart failure more robustly N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide or cardiac troponin I. Moreover, longitudinal analysis of plasma sST2 was performed in 10 patients with FM during hospitalization and 16 patients with FM during follow‐up. Finally, the diagnostic value was validated in an additional 26 patients with acute onset of unstable hemodynamics. The cutoff value of plasma sST2 for optimal diagnosis of FM was established at 58.39 ng/mL, where a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 94.7% were achieved.

Conclusions

Elevated sST2 level was associated with mechanical stress or inflammation. Especially, sST2 might be used as a potential biomarker for the rapid diagnosis of FM, which was characterized by strong mechanical stretch stimulation and severe inflammatory response.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03268642.
Impact of Icosapent Ethyl on Cardiovascular Risk Reduction in Patients With Heart Failure in REDUCE‐IT
Authors: Selvaraj Senthil , Bhatt Deepak L. , Steg Ph. Gabriel , Miller Michael , Brinton Eliot A. , Jacobson Terry A. , Juliano Rebecca A. , Jiao Lixia , Tardif Jean‐Claude , Ballantyne Christie M. ,   the REDUCE‐IT Investigators
Published: April 2022

Background

Patients with heart failure (HF) are at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Studies of atherothrombotic treatments in this population have been disappointing to date. Icosapent ethyl reduced the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease among a broad array of statin‐treated patients at elevated risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Whether the treatment benefits of icosapent ethyl are consistent among those with HF is unknown.

Methods and Results

REDUCE‐IT (Reduction of Cardiovascular Events With Icosapent Ethyl–Intervention Trial) randomized 8179 participants, including 1446 (17.7%) patients with a history of HF (icosapent ethyl, N=703; and placebo, N=743). The primary end point was a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina. We used Cox regression to estimate the risk of outcomes of participants with and without HF. We estimated the placebo‐controlled change in triglycerides and hs‐CRP (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein) from baseline to 2 years. Among 1446 patients with HF, median age was 63.0 years, median body mass index was 31.0 kg/m
2
, and more were men (69.3%). Icosapent ethyl reduced triglycerides (median reduction, 33.5 mg/dL, or 15.4%;
P
<0.0001) and hs‐CRP (35.1%;
P
<0.0001) compared with placebo, similar to patients without HF (
P
‐interaction>0.90). The treatment effect on the primary end point in patients with HF history (hazard ratio [HR], 0.87; 95% CI, 0.70–1.08) was consistent with the effects observed in patients without HF history (HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.65–0.81) (
P
‐interaction=0.13).

Conclusions

In REDUCE‐IT, icosapent ethyl provided similar improvements in triglyceride levels and hs‐CRP as well as similar cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with and without HF.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01492361.
See further upon the giants: Quantifying intellectual lineage in science
Authors: Jo Woo Seong , Liu Lu , Wang Dashun
Published: April 2022

Newton’s centuries-old wisdom of standing on the shoulders of giants raises a crucial yet underexplored question: Out of all the prior works cited by a discovery, which one is its giant? Here, we develop a discipline-independent method to identify the giant for any individual paper, allowing us to better understand the role and characteristics of giants in science. We find that across disciplines, about 95% of papers appear to stand on the shoulders of giants, yet the weight of scientific progress rests on relatively few shoulders. Defining a new measure of giant index, we find that, while papers with high citations are more likely to be giants, for papers with the same citations, their giant index sharply predicts a paper’s future impact and prize-winning probabilities. Giants tend to originate from both small and large teams, being either highly disruptive or highly developmental. Papers that did not have a giant tend to do poorly on average, yet interestingly, if such papers later became a giant for other papers, they tend to be home-run papers that are highly disruptive to science. Given the crucial importance of citation-based measures in science, the developed concept of giants may offer a useful dimension in assessing scientific impact that goes beyond sheer citation counts.
Violations of the Right to Property in Libya and the Promise of Transitional Justice
Authors: Fowler Alexandra , Radan Mohamed
Published: April 2022

Libya’s Law No. 4 of 1978, which authorised the confiscation of real estate from private owners and its redistribution to other needy citizens, reflected elements of a long debate at the international level about the human right to property. This article examines Law No. 4 against Libya’s obligations under international law and finds that it led to violations of the right to property for which redress still remains outstanding today. Noting also the extensive violations of property rights and displacement in Libya due to civil conflict since 2011, as well as previous ineffective efforts at transitional justice, the article argues for a new concerted attempt at a comprehensive property claims mechanism applying the Pinheiro Principles and complementary international instruments within a broad-ranging transitional justice process. More broadly, Libya’s experience lends weight to calls for encapsulating the right to real property in multilateral treaty form.
A review of Copelatus Erichson, 1832 of Mainland China, with description of ten new species from the japonicus complex (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae: Copelatinae)
Authors: JIANG ZHUO-YIN , ZHAO SHUANG , YANG ZHEN-YU , JIA FENG-LONG , HÁJEK JIŘÍ
Published: April 2022

The species of the genus Copelatus Erichson, 1832 from China Mainland are reviewed. 22 species are recorded in total. Ten new species: C. dentatipenis sp. nov. (Fujian, Hunan, Jiangxi), C. diversistriatus sp. nov. (Yunnan; Laos, Myanmar, Thailand), C. felicis sp. nov. (Yunnan), C. miaowangi sp. nov. (Guizhou), C. mopanshanensis sp. nov. (Yunnan), C. nanlingensis sp. nov. (Guangdong), C. puzhelongi sp. nov. (Yunnan; Laos, Vietnam), C. rosulae sp. nov. (Yunnan), C. tengchongensis sp. nov. (Yunnan), and C. xiniudong sp. nov. (Guizhou) are described. Copelatus chinensis Régimbart, 1899 is reinstituted as a valid species with Copelatus collocallosus Falkenström, 1932 and C. collocallosus Falkenström, 1933 as its junior subjective synonyms. One species from Hongkong remains unidentified since it is so far known only from a limited number of females. Additional records are provided for the known species; three species: C. bacchusi Wewalka, 1981, C. malaisei Guignot, 1954 and C. parallelus Zimmermann, 1920 are recorded from China for the first time. Copelatus takakurai Satô, 1985 is withdrawn from the Chinese fauna. All species are diagnosed, and their habitus and male genitalia are illustrated. An updated identification key to Chinese Copelatus is provided.