bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐dose total skin electron beam therapy plus oral bexarotene maintenance therapy for cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Elsayad Khaled , Rolf Daniel , Sunderkötter Cord , Weishaupt Carsten , Müller Elisa Christina , Nawar Tarek , Stranzenbach Rene , Livingstone Elisabeth , Stadler Rudolf , Steinbrink Kerstin , Moritz Rose K. C. , Eich Hans Theodor
Published: January 2022

Background

Total skin electron beam therapy (TSEBT) combined with systemic therapy or maintenance treatment is a reasonable approach to enhance the remission rate and duration in mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS). This study assesses the efficacy of oral bexarotene therapy after low‐dose TSEBT for patients with MF and SS.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, we recruited MF/SS patients for treatment with low‐dose total skin electron beam therapy (TSEBT) with or without bexarotene therapy to describe outcomes and toxicities.

Results

Forty‐six subjects with MF or SS underwent TSEBT between 2016 and 2021 at our institute. Following TSEBT, 27 patients (59 %) received oral bexarotene treatment. The median follow‐up was 13 months. The overall response rate (ORR) for the cohort was 85 %. The response rate was significantly higher with combined modality (CM) than TSEBT alone (96 % vs. 68 %, p = 0.03). Median progression‐free survival (PFS) for the CM was 17 months versus five months following TSEBT alone (p = 0.001). One patient (4 %) in the retinoid group discontinued the bexarotene therapy because of adverse events. The administration of bexarotene therapy did not increase radiation‐related toxicities.

Conclusions

Response rate and progression‐free survival might be improved with TSEBT in combination with oral bexarotene compared to TSEBT alone.
Quételet (body mass) index and effects of dapagliflozin in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Chertow Glenn M. , Vart Priya , Jongs Niels , Langkilde Anna Maria , McMurray John J. V. , Correa‐Rotter Ricardo , Rossing Peter , Sjöström C. David , Stefansson Bergur V. , Toto Robert D. , Wheeler David C. , Heerspink Hiddo J. L.
Published: January 2022

Aim

To assess the effects of dapagliflozin in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and albuminuria, with and without type 2 diabetes, stratified by the Quételet (body mass) index (BMI).

Methods

We randomized 4304 adult patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 25‐75 ml/min/1.73m2 and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio of 200‐5000 mg/g to dapagliflozin 10 mg/day or placebo. The primary outcome was a composite of sustained decline in eGFR of 50% or more, kidney failure, or death from kidney or cardiovascular causes. Secondary outcomes included kidney composite endpoint (primary composite endpoint without cardiovascular death), cardiovascular composite endpoint (hospitalized heart failure/ cardiovascular death), and all‐cause mortality. We categorized participants according to World Health Organization BMI criteria: lean/ideal (<25 kg/m2), overweight (25‐< 30 kg/m2), grade 1 obesity (30‐<35 kg/m2), and grade 2/3 obesity (≥35 kg/m2).

Results

Of 4296 (99.8%) randomized participants, 888 (20.7%), 1491 (34.7%), 1136 (26.4%), and 781 (18.2%) were categorized as lean/ideal, overweight, grade 1 obesity, and grade 2/3 obesity, respectively. Median follow‐up was 2.4 years. Benefits of dapagliflozin were observed independent of baseline BMI for primary and secondary endpoints. Hazard ratios (95% CI) for dapagliflozin versus placebo for the primary composite endpoint were 0.60 (0.43, 0.85), 0.55 (0.40, 0.75), 0.71 (0.49, 1.04), and 0.57 (0.37, 0.87) among participants in the lean/ideal, overweight, grade 1 obesity, and grade 2/3 obesity groups (interaction P = .72).

Conclusion

Among participants with CKD and albuminuria, with or without type 2 diabetes, kidney and cardiovascular benefits of dapagliflozin were evident and consistent across the BMI spectrum.
Reduction of clinically important low glucose excursions with a long‐term implantable continuous glucose monitoring system in adults with type 1 diabetes prone to hypoglycaemia: the France Adoption Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Renard Eric , Riveline Jean‐Pierre , Hanaire Hélène , Guerci Bruno ,   on behalf of the investigators of France Adoption Clinical Trial
Published: January 2022

Aim

To assess the glucose control outcomes of the implantable Eversense real‐time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system compared to self‐monitoring of blood glucose or intermittently scanned CGM in patients with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Patients and Methods

This was a randomized (2:1), prospective, national, multicentre study. All participants, aged >18 years and on multiple daily insulin injections or insulin pump treatment, had a sensor inserted, which was activated only in the “enabled” group. Included patients had T1D or T2D with a glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level > 8% (64 mmol/mol) (Cohort 1) or T1D with a time spent with glucose values below 70 mg/dL (3.8 mmol/l) (TBR<70) for >1.5 h/d during the previous 28 days (Cohort 2). The primary outcomes were HbA1c change at D180 (Cohort 1) or change in time spent with glucose values below 54 mg/dL (TBR<54) during the period of Day (D)90 to D120 (Cohort 2). A covariance model (analyses of covariance) was used for endpoint analyses.

Results

Overall, 149 patients were included in Cohort 1 and 90 in Cohort 2. In Cohort 1, the adjusted mean difference (enabled − control) in HbA1c at D180 was −0.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.4; 0.1; P = 0.341). No significant difference in time with values in the range 70 to 180 mg/dL or time with values above range (>180 mg/dL) was observed. In Cohort 2, the mean adjusted difference in TBR<54 was −1.6% (95% CI −3.1; −0.1; P = 0.039) during D90 to D120 and remained at −2.6% (95% CI −4.5; −0.6; P = 0.011) during D150 to D180 (prespecified secondary outcome). The CGM system was found to be safe.

Conclusion

This study shows that the Eversense CGM system can significantly decrease TBR<54 in patients with T1D prone to hypoglycaemia.
Systematic review of frequency of felt and enacted stigma in epilepsy and determining factors and attitudes toward persons living with epilepsy—Report from the International League Against Epilepsy Task Force on Stigma in Epilepsy
Authors: Kwon Churl‐Su , Jacoby Ann , Ali Amza , Austin Joan , Birbeck Gretchen L. , Braga Patricia , Cross J. Helen , de Boer Hanneke , Dua Tarun , Fernandes Paula T. , Fiest Kirsten M. , Goldstein Jonathan , Haut Sheryl , Lorenzetti Diane , Mifsud Janet , Moshe Solomon , Parko Karen L. , Tripathi Manjari , Wiebe Samuel , Jette Nathalie
Published: January 2022

Objective

To review the evidence of felt and enacted stigma and attitudes toward persons living with epilepsy, and their determining factors.

Methods

Thirteen databases were searched (1985–2019). Abstracts were reviewed in duplicate and data were independently extracted using a standardized form. Studies were characterized using descriptive analysis by whether they addressed “felt” or “enacted” stigma and “attitudes” toward persons living with epilepsy.

Results

Of 4234 abstracts, 132 met eligibility criteria and addressed either felt or enacted stigma and 210 attitudes toward epilepsy. Stigma frequency ranged broadly between regions. Factors associated with enacted stigma included low level of knowledge about epilepsy, lower educational level, lower socioeconomic status, rural areas living, and religious grouping. Negative stereotypes were often internalized by persons with epilepsy, who saw themselves as having an “undesirable difference” and so anticipated being treated differently. Felt stigma was associated with increased risk of psychological difficulties and impaired quality of life. Felt stigma was linked to higher seizure frequency, recency of seizures, younger age at epilepsy onset or longer duration, lower educational level, poorer knowledge about epilepsy, and younger age. An important finding was the potential contribution of epilepsy terminology to the production of stigma. Negative attitudes toward those with epilepsy were described in 100% of included studies, and originated in any population group (students, teachers, healthcare professionals, general public, and those living with epilepsy). Better attitudes were generally noted in those of younger age or higher educational status.

Significance

Whatever the specific beliefs about epilepsy, implications for felt and enacted stigma show considerable commonality worldwide. Although some studies show improvement in attitudes toward those living with epilepsy over time, much work remains to be done to improve attitudes and understand the true occurrence of discrimination against persons with epilepsy.
Optimization of fuzzy similarity by genetic algorithm in user‐based collaborative filtering recommender systems
Authors: Houshmand‐Nanehkaran Farimah , Lajevardi Seyed Mohammadreza , Mahlouji‐Bidgholi Mahmoud
Published: January 2022

The most important subjects in the memory‐based collaborative filtering recommender system (RS) are to accurately calculate the similarities between users and finally finding interesting recommendations for active users. The main purpose of this research is to provide a list of the best items for recommending in less time. The fuzzy‐genetic collaborative filtering (FGCF) approach recommends items by optimizing fuzzy similarities in the continuous genetic algorithm (CGA). In this method, first, the crisp values of user ratings are converted to fuzzy ratings, and then the fuzzy similarities are calculated. Similarity values are placed into the genes of the genetic algorithm, optimized, and finally, they are used in fuzzy prediction. Therefore, the fuzzy system is used twice in this process. Experimental results on RecSys, Movielens 100 K, and Movielens 1 M datasets show that FGCF improves the collaborative filtering RS performance in terms of quality and accuracy of recommendations, time and space complexities. The FGCF method is robust against the sparsity of data due to the correct choice of neighbours and avoids the users' different rating scales problem but it not able to solve the cold‐start challenge.
Unravelling the effect of environment on the genome of Sarda breed ewes using Runs of Homozygosity
Authors: Cesarani Alberto , Gaspa Giustino , Correddu Fabio , Dimauro Corrado , Macciotta Nicolò P. P.
Published: January 2022

Natural adaptation and artificial selection have shaped the genome of modern livestock breeds. Among SNP‐based metrics that are used to detect signatures of selection at genome‐wide level, runs of homozygosity (ROH) are getting increasing popularity. In this paper, ROH distribution and features of a sample of 823 Sarda breed ewes farmed at different levels of altitude are analysed to investigate the effect of the environment on the patterns of homozygosity. A total of 46,829 (33,087 unique) ROH were detected. OAR2 exhibited the largest average number of ROH per animal. The most frequent ROH (OAR27, 38.9–44.2 Mb) was shared by 327. ROH length was statistically affected (p < 0.001) by both the altitude and temperature of the place where the flock was located. The highest probability of a SNP falling in a ROH was observed for hill ewes, whereas the smallest one for mountain. A total of 457 SNP exceeded the 99th percentile of the ROH count per SNP distribution and were considered significant. These markers mapped in eight chromosomes and they clustered into 17 ROH islands, where 80 candidate genes were mapped. Results of this study highlighted differences in the ROH distribution and features among sheep farmed in flocks located at different levels of altitude, confirming the role of environmental adaptability in shaping the genome of this breed.
Rapid visual detection of Micropterus salmoides rhabdovirus using recombinase polymerase amplification combined with lateral flow dipsticks
Authors: Feng Zizhao , Chu Xin , Han Minzhen , Yu Chenwei , Jiang Yousheng , Wang Hao , Lu Liqun , Xu Dan
Published: January 2022

Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) is an important freshwater‐cultured species in China. Recently, a lethal and epidemic disease caused by Micropterus salmoides rhabdovirus (MSRV) results in huge economic losses to the largemouth bass industry. Current diagnostics for detecting MSRV are limited in sensitivity and speed and are inconvenient to be used for non‐laboratory detection. In this study, three rapid and convenient detection assays of MSRV by recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and lateral flow dipsticks (LFD), targeting the conserved sequences of the MSRV‐SS N gene, are described. With these RPA methods, the detection could achieve within 50 min at 38°C. Both methods of RPA‐AGE and RPA‐LFD could detect the viral DNA as low as 170 copies/μl of the MSRV standard plasmid and were 100‐fold more sensitive than that in the method of routine PCR. Meanwhile, these RPA methods were highly specific for the detection of MSRV and can be feasibly applied to the diagnostic of MSRV infection. In brief, RPA‐AGE, RPA‐LFD and RT‐RPA‐LFD provide convenient, rapid, sensitive and reliable methods that could improve field diagnosis of MSRV with limited machine resources, and would enhance the production of largemouth bass.
Mitogen‐activated protein kinase cascades in plant signaling
Authors: Zhang Mengmeng , Zhang Shuqun
Published: January 2022

Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are key signaling modules downstream of receptors/sensors that perceive either endogenously produced stimuli such as peptide ligands and damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) or exogenously originated stimuli such as pathogen/microbe‐associated molecular patterns (P/MAMPs), pathogen‐derived effectors, and environmental factors. In this review, we provide a historic view of plant MAPK research and summarize recent advances in the establishment of MAPK cascades as essential components in plant immunity, response to environmental stresses, and normal growth and development. Each tier of the MAPK cascades is encoded by a small gene family, and multiple members can function redundantly in an MAPK cascade. Yet, they carry out a diverse array of biological functions in plants. How the signaling specificity is achieved has become an interesting topic of MAPK research. Future investigations into the molecular mechanism(s) underlying the regulation of MAPK activation including the activation kinetics and magnitude in response to a stimulus, the spatiotemporal expression patterns of all the components in the signaling pathway, and functional characterization of novel MAPK substrates are central to our understanding of MAPK functions and signaling specificity in plants.
Latent profiles of autism symptoms in children and adolescents with Down syndrome
Authors: Fidler D. J. , Prince M. A. , Van Deusen K. , Esbensen A. J. , Thurman A. J. , Abbeduto L. , Patel L. , Mervis C. , Schworer E. K. , Lee N. R. , Edgin J. O. , Hepburn S. , Davis S. , Daunhauer L. A.
Published: January 2022

Background: Down syndrome (DS) is associated with elevated rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism symptomatology. To better characterise heterogeneity in ASD symptomatology in DS, profiles of caregiver‐reported ASD symptoms were modelled for children and adolescents with DS. Methods: Participants (n = 125) were recruited through several multi‐site research studies on cognition and language in DS. Using the Social Responsiveness Scale‐2 (SRS‐2; Constantino and Gruber 2012), two latent profile analyses (LPA) were performed, one on the broad composite scores of social communication and interaction and restricted interests and repetitive behaviour, and a second on the four social dimensions of social communication, social motivation, social awareness, and social cognition. Results: A three‐profile model was the best fit for both analyses, with each analysis yielding a low ASD symptom profile, an elevated or mixed ASD symptom profile and a high ASD symptom profile. Associations were observed between profile probability scores and IQ, the number of co‐occurring biomedical conditions reported, sex, and SRS‐2 form. Conclusions: Characterising heterogeneity in ASD symptom profiles can inform more personalised supports in this population, and implications for potential therapeutic approaches for individuals with DS are discussed.
Examining effects of the flipped classroom approach on motivation, learning strategies, urinary system knowledge, and urinary catheterization skills of first‐year nursing students
Authors: Aksoy Berna , Pasli Gurdogan Eylem
Published: January 2022

Aim

In nursing education, innovative approaches are crucial to enhancing students’ competence and preparing them to respond to the complex healthcare needs of society. The aim of the current study was to compare the efficacy of the flipped classroom and traditional educational approaches on the acquisition of urinary system knowledge and skill level, and on the motivation and learning strategies of first‐year nursing students.

Methods

This study was implemented with a single blind and randomized controlled design in the nursing department of a university’s faculty of health sciences between December 2018 and December 2019, with 94 first‐year undergraduate nursing students (47 in the experimental group adopting a flipped classroom approach, 47 students in the traditional approach control group). The study was conducted over pre‐test and posttest phases for both groups.

Results

The experimental group had higher mean scores than the controls in intrinsic goal orientation, task value, self‐efficacy, rehearsal, elaboration, and organization and effort regulation, but lower scores in test anxiety (p < 0.001). The theoretical and skill exam scores of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The flipped classroom approach was effective for improving urinary system knowledge and skill level, and for the motivation and learning strategies of nursing students. This innovative education approach can be recommended as a student‐centered method in nursing education for teaching theoretical knowledge and evidence‐based practices.
Detection and quantification of Aβ−3–40 (APP669‐711) in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Klafki Hans‐Wolfgang , Wirths Oliver , Mollenhauer Brit , Liepold Thomas , Rieper Petra , Esselmann Hermann , Vogelgsang Jonathan , Wiltfang Jens , Jahn Olaf
Published: January 2022

Neurochemical biomarkers can support the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and may facilitate clinical trials. In blood plasma, the ratio of the amyloid‐β (Aβ) peptides Aβ−3–40/Aβ1–42 can predict cerebral amyloid‐β pathology with high accuracy (Nakamura et al., 2018). Whether or not Aβ−3–40 (aka. amyloid precursor protein (APP) 669–711) is also present in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is not clear. Here, we investigated whether Aβ−3–40 can be detected in CSF and to what extent the CSF Aβ−3–40/Aβ42 ratio is able to differentiate between individuals with or without amyloid‐β positron emission tomography (PET) evidence of brain amyloid. The occurrence of Aβ−3–40 in human CSF was assessed by immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry. For quantifying the CSF concentrations of Aβ−3–40 in 23 amyloid PET‐negative and 17 amyloid PET‐positive subjects, we applied a sandwich‐type immunoassay. Our findings provide clear evidence of the presence of Aβ−3–40 and Aβ−3–38 in human CSF. While there was no statistically significant difference in the CSF concentration of Aβ−3–40 between the two diagnostic groups, the CSF Aβ−3–40/Aβ42 ratio was increased in the amyloid PET‐positive individuals. We conclude that Aβ−3–40 appears to be a regular constituent of CSF and may potentially serve to accentuate the selective decrease in CSF Aβ42 in Alzheimer's disease.

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Psychological interventions for sexual function and satisfaction of women with breast cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Jing , Xue Bing , Li Lu , Qiao Jia , Redding Sharon R. , Ouyang Yan‐Qiong
Published: January 2022

Aims and objectives

To systematically evaluate the effectiveness of psychological interventions for women with breast cancer on sexual function, sexual satisfaction, sexual relationships, sexual distress and sexual quality of life.

Background

Sexual dysfunction is common in women with breast cancer and seriously affects their quality of life and marital harmony. Several studies have explored the effects of psychological interventions related to sexual function of women with breast cancer, but results were inconclusive.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Method

A search of PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, CINAHL, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, ClinicalTrials.gov. and Open Grey was conducted from inception to 9 May 2021. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data and conducted a quality appraisal of included studies using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklists.

Results

Fifteen studies involving 1307 participants were included. The current study showed that psychological interventions made statistically significant improvements in sexual function (SMD = 0.82; 95% CI = [0.43, 1.20]; p < .001), sexual satisfaction (SMD = 0.95; 95% CI = [0.19, 1.72]; p = .01), sexual relationships (SMD = 0.37; 95% CI = [0.15, 0.60]; p = .001) and sexual distress (MD = −5.05; 95% CI = [−7.88, −2.22]; p = .0005) of women with breast cancer. A subgroup analysis regarding the types of psychological interventions indicated that cognitive behavioural therapy and psychoeducational therapy were beneficial to sexual function and satisfaction, and psychosexual counselling could also improve sexual function.

Conclusion

Psychological interventions, especially psychoeducational therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy, are effective for improving the sexual health of women with breast cancer.

Relevance to clinical practice

This current study provides evidence for the application of psychosexual interventions in women with breast cancer.

Registration

The study has been registered on the PROSPERO on 6 June 2021, with the registration number CRD42021253493.
Custom Made Device for Removal of Removable Partial Denture in a Patient with Manual Impairment
Authors: Touloumi Foteini , Suvarna Shivani , Florentine Catherine M. , Taylor Thomas D.
Published: January 2022

Manual impairment could be part of the clinical presentation of a number of systemic conditions or traumas. Inability to successfully remove a removable partial denture is one of the contraindications of this type of treatment. This report presents a technique for fabrication of a custom device made chairside to assist a manually impaired patient due to osteoarthritis with the removal of a removable mandibular prosthesis. This technique could allow patients with similar conditions to replace their missing teeth with removable partial dentures, in cases where a fixed restoration is not an option.
“Shake well before using”: The dialectics of Michael Silverstein (1945–2020)
Authors: Inoue Miyako
Published: January 2022

Michael Silverstein, the Charles F. Grey Distinguished Service Professor of Anthropology, Linguistics, and Psychology at the University of Chicago, passed away on Friday, July 17, 2020, after a year‐long battle with brain cancer. This tribute essay reflects upon Silverstein's distinguished contributions to contemporary linguistic anthropology and sociolinguistics.
A novel adiponectin receptor agonist (AdipoAI) ameliorates type 2 diabetes‐associated periodontitis by enhancing autophagy in osteoclasts.
Authors: Wu Xingwen , Sun Yang , Cui Renjie , Qiu Wei , Zhang Jin , Hu Zhekai , Bi Wei , Yang Fei , Ma Duan , Van Dyke Thomas , Tu Qisheng , Yu Youcheng , Chen Jake
Published: January 2022

Background and Objective

Type 2 diabetes (T2D)‐associated periodontitis is severe and refractory in many cases. Considered an inflammatory disease, T2D predisposes to periodontitis by increasing whole‐body inflammation. One mechanism of increased inflammation is thatT2D is mediated by loss of production or function of the anti‐inflammatory hormone adiponectin. In our previous report, AdipoRon, an adiponectin receptor agonist, and AdipoAI, a newly discovered, more specific agonist, attenuated T2D‐associated inflammation by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and LPS‐induced endotoxemia. Autophagy plays an important role during osteoclast differentiation and function. The impact of AdipoAI on osteoclast function and autophagy involved in osteoclastogenesis is not known. Here, we compare AdipoRon and AdipoAI potency, side effects and mechanism of action in T2D‐associated periodontitis.

Methods

The RAW 264.7 cell line was used for in vitro studies. We analyzed the potential cytotoxicity of AdipoAI using the CCK‐8 assay. The anti‐osteoclastogenic potential of AdipoAI was studied by real‐time qPCR and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining. The actions of AdipoAI involved in autophagy were tested by real‐time qPCR, western blot and immunofluorescence staining. In the diet‐induced obesity model of T2D, we investigated the impact of AdipoAI on fasting blood glucose, alveolar bone loss, and gingival inflammation in mice with experimental periodontitis.

Results

AdipoRon inhibited osteoclastogenesis and AdipoAI inhibited osteoclastogenesis at lower doses than AdipoRon without any cytotoxicity. In DIO mice with experimental periodontitis, AdipoAI reduced mouse body weight in 14 days, reducing fasting glucose levels, alveolar bone destruction, osteoclast number along the alveolar bone surface, and decreased the expression of pro‐inflammatory factors in periodontal tissues. AdipoAI and AdipoRon also enhanced LC3A/B expression when cultured with RANKL.3‑Methyladenine, a known autophagy inhibitor, decreased LC3A/B expression and reversed the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis during AdipoAI treatment.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that AdipoAI ameliorates the severity of T2D‐associated periodontitis by enhancing autophagy in osteoclasts at lower doses than AdipoRon without demonstrable side effects. Thus, AdipoAI has pharmaceutical potential for treating diabetes‐associated periodontal disease.
Autoimmune gastrointestinal dysmotility following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection successfully treated with intravenous immunoglobulin
Authors: Montalvo Mayra , Nallapaneni Padmini , Hassan Sara , Nurko Samuel , Pittock Sean J. , Khlevner Julie
Published: January 2022

Background

Autoimmune gastrointestinal dysmotility (AGID) is a limited form of dysautonomia that can be paraneoplastic or idiopathic. Some presentations can be preceded by a viral infection.

Methods

We report a case of a 17‐year‐old girl that developed intractable nausea and early satiety after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Key results

Over ten months, she required nasogastric and nasoduodenal tube feedings and finally was advanced to total parenteral nutrition to meet her caloric needs. Her α3 nicotinic ganglionic acetylcholine and anti‐striational antibodies were mildly elevated.

Gastrointestinal transit scintigraphy studies showed delayed gastric emptying and slowed small bowel transit. Thermoregulatory sweat test showed areas of anhidrosis consistent with autonomic sudomotor impairment. After IVIG treatment the patient's symptoms improved dramatically and she was able to tolerate full oral diet. This was reflected by improvement of her baseline transit studies and the thermoregulatory sweat test.

Conclusions and inferences

This is the first report of AGID occurring after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. The dramatic response to IVIG emphasizes the importance of early recognition and the reversible and treatable nature of this condition.
Sex differences in regional adipose tissue depots pose different threats for the development of Type 2 diabetes in males and females
Authors: Delaney Kerri Z. , Santosa Sylvia
Published: January 2022

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) affects males and females disproportionately. In midlife, more males have T2DM than females. The sex difference in T2DM prevalence is, in part, explained by differences in regional adipose tissue characteristics. With obesity, changes to regional adipokine and cytokine release increases the risk of T2DM in both males and females with males having greater levels of TNFα and females having greater levels of leptin, CRP, and adiponectin. Regional immune cell infiltration appears to be pathogenic in both sexes via different routes as males with obesity have greater VAT ATM and a decrease in the protective Treg cells, whereas females have greater SAT ATM and T cells. Lastly, the ability of female adipose tissue to expand all regions through hyperplasia, rather than hypertrophy, protects them against the development of large insulin‐resistant adipocytes that dominate male adipose tissue. The objective of this review is to discuss how sex may affect regional differences in adipose tissue characteristics and how these differences may distinguish the development of T2DM in males and females. In doing so, we will show that the origins of T2DM development differ between males and females.
Keratosis pilaris in collagen type VI‐related disorders
Authors: Ritter Alexandra M. , Wine Lee Lara
Published: January 2022

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition associated with a number of syndromes, including collagen type VI‐related disorders. Our patient, recently diagnosed with Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy, presented with severe keratosis pilaris, hypotonia, and velvety skin on the palms and soles. We present this case to highlight the importance of including cutaneous findings, such as keratosis pilaris, to aid in the diagnosis when evaluating patients with syndromic features.
Investigating “man’s relation to reality”: Peter Winch, the vanishing shed and metaphysics after Wittgenstein
Authors: Lagerspetz Olli
Published: January 2022

Peter Winch believed that the central task of philosophy was to investigate ‘the force of the concept of reality’ in human practices. This involved creative dialogue with critical metaphysics. In ‘Ceasing to Exist’, Winch considered what it means to judge that something unheard‐of has happened. Referring to Wittgenstein, Winch argued that judgments concerning reality must relate our observations to a shared ‘flow of life’. This implies criticism of the form of epistemology associated with metaphysical realism. Just as, according to Wittgenstein, a sentence has no fixed meaning in isolation, an observation does not constitute knowledge outside shared human practices.
Community‐based multiple screening for metabolic syndrome by innovative theory: A longitudinal study
Authors: Lien Angela Shin‐Yu , Chiu Sherry Yueh‐Hsia , Chen Sam Li‐Sheng , Fann Jean Ching‐Yuan , Yen Amy Ming‐Fang , Yeh Mei Chang , Lou Meei‐Fang , Huang Kuo‐Chin , Sheu Wayne Huey‐Herng , Chen Hsiu‐Hsi , Gau Bih‐Shya
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this research is to elucidate whether metabolic syndrome affects the rate of adoption of a new multiple cancer screening programme, based on the Diffusion of Innovation theory. The time to attend the screening programme, conducted in Keelung, Taiwan, within 10 years was assessed by innovativeness (innovators, early adaptors, early majority, late majority and laggard) using data from 79,303 residents, with the information on metabolic syndrome accrued from routine adult health check‐ups. The median time of adopting the programme and the relative rates of early adoption by metabolic syndrome and its severity score were estimated. The results show that the estimated times to adopt the programme ranged from 3 months for innovators to 10 years for the laggard. The rate of early adoption was 34% higher for participants without metabolic syndrome than for those with the disease, and the gradient relationship of disease severity was noted. The adjusted median time to adopt innovativeness was 0.82 years earlier for participants who were disease‐free than those with the disease. Meanwhile, the adjusted median time was wider by up to 2.25 years for those with severe disease. The study suggests that innovation should prioritise the potential risk of the metabolic syndrome population.
Pharmacy and medical student interprofessional education placement week
Authors: Jebara Tesnime , Thomas Ian , Cunningham Scott , Rushworth Gordon F.
Published: January 2022

Background

Developing collaborative practice through interprofessional education (IPE) activities in undergraduate healthcare curricula is advocated by the World Health Organisation and the regulatory bodies for Medicine and Pharmacy within the UK.

Approach

Our local faculty, comprising educators from within the Highland Pharmacy Education and Research Centre (HPERC) and Highland Medical Education Centre (HMEC), developed a 5‐day IPE placement for pharmacy and medical students on clinical placement within NHS Highland.

Evaluation

We collected qualitative evaluation data using face‐to‐face focus group discussions with five pharmacy and four medical students (January 2020 cohort). Three key categories and multiple themes within each category were identified from participant narratives: Category 1, overall perception of experience—(themes: better than previous IPE experience; greater exposure to clinical pharmacy); Category 2, student interactions—(themes: learning with a buddy; understanding of interprofessional roles); Category 3, suggestions for improvement—(themes: choice of relevant clinical rotation and content; increase learning from clinical pharmacists; better orientation to placement). Overall, students valued their participation during this week and reported many benefits of learning with students from another profession. Students also highlighted suggestions to improve their learning experience.

Implications

This evaluation has indicated students' support for embedding interprofessional placements into their curricula. Clinical educators should consider designing similar placements, while further work should focus on inclusion of higher student numbers and look to include a range of professions and practice settings.
Review of authorship for COVID‐19 research conducted during the 2020 first‐wave epidemic in Africa reveals emergence of promising African biomedical research and persisting asymmetry of international collaborations
Authors: Tonen‐Wolyec Serge , Mbumba Lupaka Dieu‐Merci , Batina‐Agasa Salomon , Mbopi Keou François‐Xavier , Bélec Laurent
Published: January 2022

Objectives

The contribution of African authors to the biomedical literature is small. We evaluated the African and non‐African scientific production published in the international literature on the COVID‐19 in Africa during the first year of the epidemic (2020).

Methods

Papers on COVID‐19 in Africa were extracted from the Medline (PubMed) database for bibliometric analysis including the proportions of three leading and last authors by study type, study country, authors’ and laboratories/institutions’ countries of affiliation and journal ranking.

Results

A total of 160 articles fulfilling the inclusion criteria were analysed. The majority (91.3%) was produced by half (53.7%) of African countries, with important regional disparities, and generally without sources of funding mentioned. The majority (>85.0) of authors in lead positions (first, second, third and last authors) were Africans. Only a small number (8.7%) of studies on COVID‐19 in Africa were carried out by laboratories not on the African continent (mainly Europe, USA and China) and generally received funding. The last and first authors were more frequently of non‐African origin in journals with an Impact Factor ranking ≥1, and more frequently of African origin in journals with a lower ranking (< 1). The first and last non‐African authors tended to report their studies in high ranking ≥1 journals.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that the emergence of promising African research capable of publishing in indexed but low‐impact factor medical journals and reveals the persistence of a North‐South asymmetry in international cooperation in biomedical research with Africa.
Spray Combustion Characteristics of Single/Multicomponent Surrogate Fuel for Aviation Kerosene
Authors: Qin Wenjin , Lu Dengbiao , Xu Lihui
Published: January 2022

In this research, n-dodecane and world-average jet fuel (JW) are selected as single and multicomponent surrogate fuel of aviation kerosene to study the Jet-A spray combustion characteristics. The spray combustion phenomena are simulated using large eddy simulation coupled with detailed chemical reaction mechanism. Proper orthogonal decomposition method is applied to analyze the flow field characteristics, and the instantaneous velocity field is decomposed into four parts, namely, the mean part, coherent part, transition part, and turbulent part, respectively. The four parts have their own characteristics. In terms of different fuels, JW has a higher intensity of coherent structures and local vortices than n-dodecane, which promotes the fuel–air mixing and improves the combustion characteristics, and the soot formation is significantly reduced. In addition, with the increase of initial temperature, the combustion is more intense, the ignition delay time is advanced, the flame liftoff length is reduced, and soot formation is increased accordingly.
Quantum superposition of spacetimes obeys Einstein's equivalence principle
Authors: Giacomini Flaminia , Brukner Časlav
Published: January 2022

We challenge the view that there is a basic conflict between the fundamental principles of Quantum Theory and General Relativity and, in particular, the fact that a superposition of massive bodies would lead to a violation of the Equivalence Principle. It has been argued that this violation implies that such a superposition must inevitably spontaneously collapse (like in the Diósi–Penrose model). We identify the origin of such an assertion in the impossibility of finding a local and classical reference frame in which Einstein's Equivalence Principle would hold. In contrast, we argue that the formulation of the Equivalence Principle can be generalized so that it holds for reference frames that are associated with quantum systems in a superposition of spacetimes. The core of this new formulation is the introduction of a quantum diffeomorphism to such Quantum Reference Frames. This procedure reconciles the principle of linear superposition in Quantum Theory with the principle of general covariance and the Equivalence Principle of General Relativity. Hence, it is not necessary to invoke a gravity-induced spontaneous state reduction when a massive body is prepared in a spatial superposition.
An argument for strong positivity of the decoherence functional in the path integral approach to the foundations of quantum theory
Authors: Dowker Fay , Wilkes Henry
Published: January 2022

We give an argument for strong positivity of the decoherence functional as the correct, physical positivity condition in formulations of quantum theory based fundamentally on the path integral. We extend to infinite systems work by Boës and Navascués that shows that the set of strongly positive quantum systems is maximal among sets of systems that are closed under tensor product composition. We show further that the set of strongly positive quantum systems is the unique set that is maximal among the sets that are closed under tensor product composition.
Efficient realization of on-demand functional ultrasonic fields based on prolate spheroidal wave functions from sampling theorem
Authors: Shen Ya-Xi , Zhu Xue-Feng
Published: January 2022

The past decades have witnessed great efforts in the on-demand ultrasonic field design in which the time reversal technology was widely used in the whole-space acoustic hologram. In practice, the acoustic field of interest is usually bounded in a finite region with flexible distribution. Here, the use of prolate spheroidal wave functions to generate an arbitrary ultrasonic field in a finite region is proposed. The prolate spheroidal functions, which form a complete set of band limited functions and are orthogonal in the infinite and finite regions, can be efficiently reconstructed by the sampling theorem. To display the validation of the proposed method, two types of functional ultrasonic fields are numerically simulated. One type is the ultrasound standing wave field for which six nodes and two nodes are separately realized for two different types of standing waves in the limited range of (−2λ, 2λ). In addition, a composite standing wave field is stimulated with more complicated nodal distributions. The other type is the ultrasound focusing field, where three focal spots with the mainlobe sizes of λ, 0.5λ, and 0.35λ are demonstrated. It is worth noting that the nontrivial side lobes for super-oscillation focusing are designed to be about 3λ away from the central focal spot (the mainlobe size 0.35λ). This work has much significance in the applications of acoustic tweezing, ultrasonic imaging, and treatment.
A study of the just noticeable difference of early decay time for symphonic halls
Authors: del Solar Dorrego Fernando , Vigeant Michelle C.
Published: January 2022

The just noticeable differences (JNDs) of room acoustic parameters are important for the design of concert halls and, in general, research of room acoustics. Precise knowledge of JNDs helps the concert hall designer in assessing the impact that changes in the geometry or materials of the hall will have on its perceived acoustics. When designing a concert hall, creating an appropriate feeling of reverberance for the audience is of prime importance. The early decay time (EDT) parameter has proved to be a better predictor of the perception of reverberance than the classical reverberation time (T30), but no studies have been conducted to specifically determine the EDT JND. In the present study, the EDT JND was investigated for broadband conditions and assessed for individual frequency ranges. A subjective study was conducted with 26 subjects with musical training, in which 21 were considered reliable. The participants listened to orchestral music convolved with measured spatial room impulse responses from three concert halls. The stimuli were auralized in an anechoic chamber using third-order Ambisonic reproduction. The obtained values show that the JNDs for the broadband conditions are lower than those for the individual frequency ranges. The EDT JND for the broadband conditions was found to be approximately 18% of the EDT value.
Pavel Datsyuk: Learning, Development, and Becoming the “Magic Man”
Authors: O’Sullivan Mark , Bespomoshchnov Vladislav A. , Mallett Clifford J.
Published: January 2022

Who is the “Magic Man” (https://youtu.be/5EgNF6X2MJs?t=78)? In 2017, Pavel Datsyuk was named as one of the 100 greatest National Hockey League players in ice hockey history. His Detroit Red Wings teammate Niklas Kronwall quipped, “Pav is the Magic Man for a reason. He does things out there with the puck that no one else can do.” This statement begs the questions: When, where, and how did Pavel learn those creative skills? To gain insight into how the “Magic Man,” Pavel Datsyuk, acquired such sophisticated yet unorthodox skills, we endeavored to investigate the preprofessional years of Pavel’s development. Utilizing a case study methodology and leaning on the theoretical framework of ecological dynamics, we sought to examine the ecological niche that helped shape Pavel’s learning in development. Our case study highlights the ecological nature of the development of expertise and the nonlinear impact ecological constraints had on the development of Pavel’s expertise.
Target Constraints Influence Locomotion Pattern to the First Hurdle
Authors: Smirniotou Athanasia , Panteli Flora , Theodorou Apostolos
Published: January 2022

The study examined to what extent the manipulation of hurdle height (0.76-m hurdle, low hurdle 0.50 m, and white stripe) would affect visual regulation strategies and kinematic reorganization when approaching the first hurdle. In addition, the impact of constraints as a training tool in terms of creating movement patterns functional for and representative of competitive movement models was assessed. The approach phase to the first hurdle of 13 physical education students with no previous experience in hurdling was video recorded and analyzed. Emergence of different footfall variability curves and movement coordination patterns suggests that participants interact differently with features of the performance context. Contrary to the white stripe, the hurdle height required participants to initiate regulation and distribute adjustments over a larger number of steps, and afforded the preparation for takeoff in order to clear the hurdle. In task design, manipulation of task constraints should offer valuable information regarding the dynamics of movement.
Quantum computational advantage via high-dimensional Gaussian boson sampling
Authors: Deshpande Abhinav , Mehta Arthur , Vincent Trevor , Quesada Nicolás , Hinsche Marcel , Ioannou Marios , Madsen Lars , Lavoie Jonathan , Qi Haoyu , Eisert Jens , Hangleiter Dominik , Fefferman Bill , Dhand Ish
Published: January 2022

A programmable quantum computer based on fiber optics outperforms classical computers with a high level of confidence.
Electric field control of chirality
Authors: Behera Piush , May Molly A. , Gómez-Ortiz Fernando , Susarla Sandhya , Das Sujit , Nelson Christopher T. , Caretta Lucas , Hsu Shang-Lin , McCarter Margaret R. , Savitzky Benjamin H. , Barnard Edward S. , Raja Archana , Hong Zijian , García-Fernandez Pablo , Lovesey Stephen W. , van der Laan Gerrit , Ercius Peter , Ophus Colin , Martin Lane W. , Junquera Javier , Raschke Markus B. , Ramesh Ramamoorthy
Published: January 2022

Nonlinear optics reveal how the chirality of ferroelectric vortices can be deterministically controlled using an electric field.
Rapid propagation of membrane tension at retinal bipolar neuron presynaptic terminals
Authors: Gomis Perez Carolina , Dudzinski Natasha R. , Rouches Mason , Landajuela Ane , Machta Benjamin , Zenisek David , Karatekin Erdem
Published: January 2022

Cell membranes flow very differently across cell types, likely reflecting distinct membrane recycling activities.
High–aspect ratio zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) nanoplates for hydrocarbon separation membranes
Authors: Kwon Ohchan , Kim Minsu , Choi Eunji , Bae Jun Hyuk , Yoo Sungmi , Won Jong Chan , Kim Yun Ho , Shin Ju Ho , Lee Jong Suk , Kim Dae Woo
Published: January 2022

High–aspect ratio ZIF-8 nanoplate–incorporated membranes exhibit highly effective performance for hydrocarbon separation.
PIEZO1 mediates a mechanothrombotic pathway in diabetes
Authors: Zhu Wandi , Guo Shihui , Homilius Max , Nsubuga Cissy , Wright Shane H. , Quan Dajun , KC Ashmita , Eddy Samuel S. , Victorio Rachelle A. , Beerens Manu , Flaumenhaft Robert , Deo Rahul C. , MacRae Calum A.
Published: January 2022

Hematopoietic cell selection based on PIEZO1 expression drives thrombosis risk in type 2 diabetes.
A Comprehensive Review on the Role of the Gut Microbiome in Human Neurological Disorders
Authors: Sorboni Shokufeh Ghasemian , Moghaddam Hanieh Shakeri , Jafarzadeh-Esfehani Reza , Soleimanpour Saman
Published: January 2022

The human body is full of an extensive number of commensal microbes, consisting of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, collectively termed the human microbiome. The initial acquisition of microbiota occurs from both the external and maternal environments, and the vast majority of them colonize the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).