bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary biphenotypic leukemia following Rosai-Dorfman-Disease A coincidence?
Authors: Thieme Anne , Maurus Katja , Ernestus Karen , Hirsch Steffen , Schramm Kathrin , Benoit Clemens , Buck Andreas , Haertel Christoph , Schlegel Paul , Eyrich Matthias , Wölfl Matthias , Classen Carl-Friedrich , Wiegering Verena
Published: September 2021

Rosai-Dorman-Disease is one subgroup of Non-Langerhans cell
histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy. It is a generally a benign
and self-limiting disease, but an association to hemato-lymphoid
malignancies or immune diseases is suspected. We present the case of a
6-year old male patient with multifocal extranodal RDD developing a
secondary biphenotypic, treatment-resistant leukemia during treatment.
Hypothysing that RDD and the secondary leukemia could be based on the
same malign clone or on a cancer predispostion syndrome,
whole-exome-sequencing of a saliva sample and leukemic cells were
performed. A common marker of cell lines of histiocytosis and leukemic
blasts has not been found.
Advances in Technology and Remote Cardiac Monitoring: Living the future of cardiovascular technology
Authors: Omar Alaa , Lattouf Omar
Published: September 2021

Hospital administrations and providers are more than ever in need for
new technologies and innovative methods with clinical benefit at lower
costs. Surgeons and clinicians depend on conventional risk
stratification scores developed to allow physicians to establish the
risk of perioperative mortality. However, the current practiced models
of preventive cardiology largely depend on patient motivation and
awareness to be able to apply such risk scores appropriately. It was not
until the appearance of miniaturized pocket-sized, user-friendly digital
technologies that the awareness started to grow, highlighting the
importance of role of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in
modern day medicine.
The ACID PHOSPHATASE 1 regulates Pi stress adaptation by maintaining intracellular Pi homeostasis
Authors: Deng Su , Li Jingyi , Du Zezhen , Wu Zixuan , Yang Jian , Cai Hongmei , Wu Gaobing , XU Fangsen , Huang Yichao , Wang Sheliang , Wang Chuang
Published: September 2021

The concentration and homeostasis of intracellular phosphate (Pi) are
crucial for sustaining cell metabolism and growth. During short-term Pi
starvation, intracellular Pi is maintained relatively constant at the
expense of vacuolar Pi. After the vacuolar stored Pi is exhausted, the
plant cells induce the synthesis of intracellular acid phosphatase
(APase) to recycle Pi from expendable organic phosphate (Po). In this
study, the expression, enzymatic activity and subcellular localization
of ACID PHOSPHATASE 1 (OsACP1) were determined. OsACP1 expression is
specifically induced in almost all cell types of leaves and roots under
Pi stress conditions. OsACP1 encodes an acid phosphatase with broad Po
substrates and localizes in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi
apparatus (GA). Phylogenic analysis demonstrates that OsACP1 has a
similar structure with human acid phosphatase PHOSPHO1. Overexpression
or mutation of OsACP1 affected Po degradation and utilization, which
further influenced plant growth and productivity under both
Pi-sufficient and Pi-deficient conditions. Moreover, overexpression of
OsACP1 significantly affected intracellular Pi homeostasis and Pi
starvation signalling. We concluded that OsACP1 is an active acid
phosphatase that regulates rice growth under Pi stress conditions by
recycling Pi from Po in the ER and GA.
Integrating mixed-cell CA model and Bayesian belief networks to optimize ecosystem services for ecological restoration and conservation
Authors: Zhou Shuang , Peng Li
Published: September 2021

The complexity and uncertainty of land use and environmental factors
pose challenges to the management decisions of ecological restoration
and conservation.We integrated the mixed-cell CA model and Bayesian
belief networks to develop an innovative method for optimizing ecosystem
services under different land development scenarios, including
consideration of the uncertainty and variability of factors.The southern
region of Sichuan Province, China, was selected as an example.We first
established three development scenarios between 2015 and 2035, namely,
natural development scenario (NDS), ecological protection scenario
(EPS), and cultivated land protection scenario (CLPS).The MCCA model was
utilized to simulate the land use pattern in 2035 under different
scenarios.We then construced a BBN-based model to investigate the carbon
sequestration, grain supply, soil conservation, habitat quality, and
water yield in 2035 under uncertain scenarios.After the sensitivity
analysis and evaluation of the model, we determined the state
combination of influential factors at various ecosystem service levels
and the ecological restoration and conservation key areas.The obtained
result showed that the key influencing factors impacting the ecosystem
services level included NPP, Slope, forestland and ET, and the state
combination corresponding to the highest level of ecosystem services was
predominantly distributed in regions with the highest NPP, the highest
Slope, the highest forestland area and low ET.Based on this finding, we
proposed some suggestions for ecological restoration and conservation of
key areas.This model considers uncertainties and is capable of providing
scientific recommendations on restoration and conservation; therefore,
it can serve as an effective tool to assist stakeholders in making
decisions.
Global well-posedness for the generalized Navier-Stokes-Coriolis equations with highly oscillating initial data
Authors: Sun Xiaochun , Liu Mixiu , Zhang Jihong
Published: September 2021

We study the small initial date Cauchy problem for the generalized
incompressible Navier-Stokes-Coriolis equations in critical hybrid-Besov
space
$\dot{\mathscr{B}}_{2,\,
p}^{\frac{5}{2}-2\alpha,
\frac{3}{p}-2\alpha+1}(\mathbb{R}^3)$
with $1/2<\alpha<2$ and
$2\leq p\leq 4$. We prove that
hybrid-Besov spaces norm of a class of highly osillating initial
velocity can be arbitrarily small. and we prove the estimation of highly
frequency $L^p$ smoothing effect for generalized Stokes-Coriolis
semigroup with $1\leq
p\leq\infty$, At the same time, we prove
space-time norm estimation of hybrid-Besov spaces for Stokes-Coriolis
semigroup. From this result we deduce bilinear estimation in our work
space. Our method relies upon Bony’s high and low frequency
decomposition technology and Banach fixed point theorem.
Soil organic matter and ammonium affect potassium retention in soil microaggregates under long--term fertilization
Authors: Chen Mingjun , Chen Xiaoqin , Muhammad Shahbaz , Ge Tida , Wang Huoyan , Wang Shu , Zhang Wenzhao
Published: September 2021

The adsorption and fixation of potassium in agricultural soils are
important as they influence K availability for crops. Soil organic
matter (SOM) and ammonium (NH4+) exist in soils and play indispensable
roles in soil fertility and crop yield; however, the effects of SOM and
NH4+ on K retention in soil aggregate remains unclear. This study aimed
to evaluate the effects of SOM and NH4+ on K adsorption and fixation in
soil microaggregates (<0.25 mm). Soil microaggregates were
extracted from three long-term fertilization treatments under rice-wheat
rotations: no fertilizer (CK), fertilized with inorganic NPK (NPK), and
inorganic NPK fertilizers combined with straw return (NPKS). Long-term
fertilization, particularly the application of inorganic NPK combined
with straw return, significantly improved the SOM content in
microaggregates. Both NPK and NPKS treatments increased K adsorption but
decreased K fixation, and SOM oxidation of microaggregates reduced K
adsorption but increased K fixation in all treatments, indicating the
positive and inhibitory effects of SOM on K adsorption and fixation,
respectively. NH4+ significantly inhibited K adsorption and fixation,
and this inhibitory effect was more significant in microaggregates with
a higher SOM content. Although NH4+ reduced the positive effect of SOM
on K adsorption, it enhanced the inhibitory effect of SOM on K fixation.
Conclusionally, long-term fertilization increases K adsorption but
reduces K fixation by improving SOM content, where NH4+ enhances SOM
inhibited K retention in soil microaggregates, which is considered to
improve K availability in soils amended with K fertilizers. Keywords:
soil organic matter, NH4+, K, adsorption, fixation
Using aortic arch short axis views during transesophageal echocardiographic examination facilitates right ventricular assist device imaging
Authors: Tutunjian Alyssa , Ortoleva Jamel , Zhan Yong , Chen Frederick , Couper Gregory , Kawabori Masashi
Published: September 2021

Given the increased need for mechanical circulatory support and
subsequent development of right ventricular assist devices (RVAD),
appropriate imaging needs to be described to facilitate care in patients
with cardiogenic shock and heart failure. We present three cases in
which the upper esophageal aortic arch short axis (UE AA SAX) view on
transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was utilized to effectively image
RVADs: to confirm normal positioning, to detect and guide repositioning,
and to visualize malfunction. These cases support the importance of the
UE AA SAX TEE view in RVAD outflow imaging and, when obtainable, should
be included in routine RVAD assessment.
Assessment of the learning curve of total thoracoscopic mitral valve repair using cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM)
Authors: Song Chao , Fan YunLong , Zhu Siming , Jiang Shengli
Published: September 2021

Objective: To evaluate the learning curve and safety of total
thoracoscopic mitral valve repair (MVP). Background: Total thoracoscopic
MVP is characterized by minimal trauma, minimal bleeding, and short
postoperative recovery time. The learning curve of any new procedure
needs to be evaluated for learning and replication. However, minimally
invasive mitral valve technique is a wide-ranging concept, no further
analysis of the outcomes and learning curve of total thoracoscopic
mitral valve repair has been performed. Methods: One hundred and fifty
consecutive patients who underwent minimally invasive MVP alone without
concurrent surgery were evaluated. Using Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB)
time and Aortic clamping (AC) time as evaluation variables, we
visualized the learning curve for total thoracoscopic MVP using
Cumulative sum analysis. We also analyzed important postoperative
variables such as postoperative drainage, duration of mechanical
ventilation, ICU stay and postoperative hospital stay. Results: The
slope of the fitted curve was negative after 75 procedures, and the
learning curve could be crossed after the completion of the 75th
procedure when AC and CPB time were used as evaluation variables. And as
the number of surgical cases increased, CPB, AC, postoperative drainage,
duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay and postoperative hospital
stay all showed different degrees of decrease. The incidence of
postoperative adverse events is similar to conventional mitral valve
repair. Conclusions: Compared to conventional MVP, total thoracoscopic
MVP provides the same satisfactory surgical results and stabilization
can be achieved gradually after completion of the 75th procedure.
Factitial Hyperthyroidism: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Hammamy Riyadh , Farooqui Dr Khalid , Shariff Mohamed
Published: September 2021

Thyrotoxicosis factitia is not very uncommon. There is a high likelihood
of it being missed in our day-to-day clinical practice which can lead
not only to significant patient morbidity but also put burden on
health-care resources. We report a case masquerading as refractory
thyrotoxicosis diagnosed to have uncontrolled hyperthyroidism.
Lichen Planus flare following COVID-19 vaccination: a case report
Authors: Herzum Astrid , Burlando Martina , Molle Mattia , Micalizzi Claudia , Parodi A.
Published: September 2021

We report the third case of lichen planus (LP) following COVID-19
BNT162b2 vaccination in a 59-year-old woman with previous LP. The
reactivation of LP in patients with dormant LP, suggests possible
vaccine-induced immune dysregulation. We suggest that the already
described vaccine-induced up-regulation of Th1 response, may play a
relevant role.
ANGPTL4 expression in ovarian granulosa cells is associated with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Jiang Qi , Zheng Yanjun , Li Ping , Bian Yuehong , Wang Wenqi , Wu Guihua , Song Tian , Shi Yuhua
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT Objectives:To characterize the expression of ANGPTL4 in ovarian
granulosa cells (GCs) and its association with polycystic ovary
syndrome. Design: A retrospective study. Setting: University-based
center for reproductive medicine. Participants:This study included 104
PCOS patients and 112 control women undergoing in vitro
fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) from the reproductive hospital
affiliated with Shandong University between 2019 and 2021. Methods: The
mRNA expression of ANGPTL4 in GCs were assessed by reverse transcription
and real-time quantitative (RT-q)PCR, then clinical information for
these patients were reviewed and analyzed. Main outcome measures:
ANGPTL4 expression in GCs in participants, correlation between ANGPTL4
expression level and metabolic characteristics of patients and
predictive value of ANGPTL4 expression for PCOS. Results:The RT-qPCR
results showed that ANGPTL4 expression in the control group is
significantly lower than that in the PCOS group(P=0.000). It indicated
positive association with AMH(r=0.211), HOMA-IR(r=0.174),
LDL/HDL(r=0.176), ApoB/ApoAI(r=0.155) and TC/HDL(r=0.189). Additionally,
the ANGPTL4 expression in the ovarian granulosa cells might be a
independent factor in PCOS(OR:3.345, 95%CI:1.951–5.734) and served as
a good predictor for PCOS (AUC0.704, 95%CI 0.633-0.774,P＜0.001).
Conclusions:For the first time our study revealed on the higher ANGPTL4
expression in ovarian GCs with PCOS, and its association with glucose
and lipid metabolism showed that ANGPTL4 might be a predictor for PCOS
and play an important role in metabolism and pathogenesis of PCOS.
Funding: National Key R&D Program of China (2018YFC1003202,
2016YFC1000604) and Taishan scholar project special funds (No.
ts201712103). Key words: polycystic ovary syndrome, angiopoietin-like
protein 4, mRNA, ovarian granulosa cell, glycolipid metabolism
One-Step Thermal Processing of BaCe0.8Y0.2O3-δ Hydrogen Permeable Multi-Channel Hollow Fiber Membrane
Authors: Wang Tianlei , Fan Zheng , Wang Shoufei , Zheng Qiankun , Tan Jinkun , Liu Zhengkun , Zhang Guangru , Jin Wanqin
Published: September 2021

Yttrium-doped barium cerate
(BaCeYO, BCY)
is the most widely studied proton conducting material and is frequently
fabricated as dense membranes for hydrogen separation. However, the
difficulty to prepare dense BCY membranes is the extremely high
sintering temperature, normally higher than 1500 oC. Herein, the BCY
7-channel hollow fiber membrane was prepared by one-step thermal
processing (OSTP). It proved that adding
CoO as sintering aid is beneficial to
the densification and 1wt% CoO was
the optimum addition to form a homogeneous phase structure. The dense
sintering temperature was greatly reduced from over 1500 to 1350
C. The hydrogen permeation flux of the BCY hollow
fiber membrane reached up to 0.34 ml
mincm at 900
C. The long-term stability test last for 300 h. The
properties of OSTP samples were demonstrated to be essentially higher
than samples made by conventional ceramic hollow fiber fabrication
methods.
A scaled MP-PIC method for bubbling fluidization
Authors: Zhao Xing , Jiang Yong , Li Fei , Wang Wei
Published: September 2021

Coarse-grained methods have been widely used in simulations of gas-solid
fluidization. However, as a key parameter, the coarse-graining ratio,
and its relevant scaling law is still far from reaching a consensus. In
this work, a scaling law is developed based on a similarity analysis,
and then it is used to scale the multi-phase particle-in-cell (MP-PIC)
method, and validated in the simulation of two bubbling fluidized beds.
The simulation result shows this scaled MP-PIC can reduce the errors of
solids volume fraction and velocity distributions over a wide range of
coarse-graining ratios. In future, we expect that a scaling law with
consideration of the heterogeneity inside a parcel or numerical particle
will further improve the performance of coarse-grained modeling in
simulation of fluidized beds.
Use of a Novel Bicarbonate-Based Impella 5.5 Purge Solution in a Coagulopathic Patient
Authors: Simonsen Kyle , Gunn Brady , Malhotra Amber , Beckles Daniel , Koerner Michael , Tavilla Giuseppe , Reddy Ramachandra
Published: September 2021

The Impella 5.5 with SmartAssist (Abiomed; Danvers, MA) is a life-saving
treatment option in acute heart failure which utilizes a continuous
heparin purge solution to prevent thrombosis. In patients with
contraindications to heparin, alternative anticoagulation strategies are
required. We describe the stepwise management of anticoagulation in a
coagulopathic patient with persistent cardiogenic shock following a
coronary artery bypass procedure who underwent Impella 5.5 placement. A
direct thrombin inhibitor-based purge solution was utilized while
evaluating for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Use of a novel
bicarbonate-based purge solution (BBPS) was successfully used due to
severe coagulopathy. There were no episodes of pump thrombosis or
episodes of severe bleeding on the BBPS and systemic effects of
alkalosis and hypernatremia were minimal.
Pharmacokinetics and exposure–response analysis of venetoclax+obinutuzumab in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: phase 1b study and phase 3 CLL14 trial
Authors: Samineni Divya , Gibiansky Leonid , Wang Bei , Vadhavkar Shweta , Rajwanshi Richa , Tandon Maneesh , Sinha Arijit , Al-Sawaf Othman , Fischer Kirsten , Hallek Michael , Salem Ahmed Hamed , Li Chunze , Miles Dale
Published: September 2021

Aims: To investigate pharmacokinetics (PK) and exposure-response of the
400 mg once daily venetoclax dose regimen in combination with
obinutuzumab in the phase 3 CLL14 study approved for the treatment of
first-line (1L) chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Methods: Parameter
estimates and uncertainty estimated by a previously developed population
PK (popPK) model were used as informative priors for this analysis. They
were re-estimated, then used to evaluate additional covariate effects,
describe venetoclax PK when administered with obinutuzumab, and provide
empirical Bayes estimates of PK parameters and exposure.
Exposure-progression-free survival (PFS) and exposure-safety
relationships were assessed using CLL14 data, with steady-state exposure
at the nominal target dose (C) as the
predictor variable. Exposure-safety analyses were conducted using
logistic regression for selected treatment-emergent grade ≥3 adverse
events (AEs) and serious AEs (SAEs). Dose intensities were summarized by
tertiles of C. Results: PK data from 274
patients (CLL14, n=194; phase 1b dose-finding study GP28331, n=80) were
included. The final model provided good fit of observed data.
Obinutuzumab co administration, history of prior treatments, and disease
severity at baseline had no appreciable influence on venetoclax
steady-state exposure. No significant correlations were observed between
venetoclax exposure and PFS, or between venetoclax exposure and the
probability of treatment-emergent grade ≥3 neutropenia, grade ≥3
thrombocytopenia, grade ≥3 infections and SAEs. Median dose intensities
for venetoclax and obinutuzumab remained similar across venetoclax
exposure tertiles. Conclusion: PopPK and exposure efficacy, -safety and
-tolerability analyses support the 400 mg once-daily venetoclax dose
plus obinutuzumab in patients with 1L CLL.
Deep Learning does not Replace Bayesian Modeling : Comparing research use via citation counting
Authors: Baldwin Breck
Published: September 2021

One could be excused for assuming that deep learning had or will soon
usurp all credible work in reasoning, artificial intelligence and
statistics, but like most ‘meme’ class broad generalizations the concept
does not hold up to scrutiny. Memes don’t generally matter since the
experts will always know better but in the case of Bayesian software
like Stan and PyMC3 even its developers and advocates bemoan the
apparent dominance of deep learning as manifested in popular culture,
breathtaking performance and most problematically from funding agency
peer review that impacts our ability to further advance the field. The
facts however do not support the assumed dominance of deep learning in
science upon closer examination. This letter simply makes the argument
by the crudest of possible metrics, citation count, that once Computer
Science is subtracted, Bayesian software accounts for nearly a third of
research citations. Stan and PyMC3 dominate some fields, PyTorch, Keras
and TensorFlow dominate others with lots of variation in between.
Bayesian and deep learning approaches are related but very different
technologies in goals, implementation and applicability with little
actual overlap so this is not a surprise. While deep learning is backed
by industry behemoths (Google, Facebook) the Bayesian efforts are not
and it would behoove funders to recognize the impact of Bayesian
software given its centrality to science.
Familial hypercholesterolaemia with cardiovascular disease：a case report
Authors: Wang Kexin , Sun Tao , Zhang Xiaoping , Gao Hai , Li Xiaoyan
Published: September 2021

A 56-year-old female with definite FH was reported based on clinical
algorithms. Whole exome sequencing identified a heterozygous LDLR
mutation (c.1599G>A), which is pathogenic according to ACMG
guidelines. Sanger sequencing was performed in family members, and the
mutation site was co-segregated with the disease in the family.
Assessment of a subgrid-scale model for convection-dominated mass transfer for initial transient rise of a bubble
Authors: Weiner Andre , Claassen Claire , Hierck Irian , Kuipers J.A.M. (Hans) , Baltussen Maike
Published: September 2021

The mass transfer between a rising bubble and the surrounding liquid is
mainly determined by an extremely thin layer of dissolved gas forming at
the liquid side of the gas-liquid interface. Resolving this
concentration boundary layer in numerical simulations is computationally
expensive. Subgrid-scale models mitigate the resolution requirements
enormously and allow approximating the mass transfer in industrially
relevant flow conditions with high accuracy. However, the development
and validation of such models is difficult as only integral mass
transfer data for steady-state conditions are available. Therefore, it
is difficult to assess the validity of the sub-grid models in transient
conditions. In this contribution, we compare the local and global mass
transfer of an improved subgrid-scale model for rising bubbles (Re =
72-569 and Sc = 10^2-10^4) to a single-phase simulation approach,
which maps the two-phase flow field to a highly-resolved mesh comprising
only the liquid phase.
A decade of RAD51C/D: Germline pathogenic variants and their phenotypic landscape
Authors: Boni Jacopo , Idani Aida , Roca Carla , Feliubadaló Lídia , Tomiak Eva , Weber Evan , Foulkes William , Orthwein Alex , Haffaf Zaki el , Lazaro Conxi , Rivera Barbara
Published: September 2021

Defects in DNA repair genes have been extensively associated to cancer
susceptibility. Germline pathogenic variants (GPV) in genes involved in
homologous recombination repair pathway predispose to cancers arising
mainly in breast and ovary, but also other tissues. The RAD51 paralogs
RAD51C and RAD51D were included in this group 10 years ago, when
germline variants were associated to non-BRCA1/2 familial ovarian
cancer. However, whether GPVs in these genes are associated with other
cancers remains unknown. Here, we have reviewed the landscape of RAD51C
and RAD51D germline variants in cancer reported in the literature during
the last decade, curating a total of 341 variants and the phenotypes
found in families with RAD51C/D variant carriers. A comprehensive
catalogue has been generated pinpointing to the existence of recurrent
variants in both genes. Investigation of pedigrees found fourteen other
cancer types reported more than five times in families with carriers of
RAD51C/D pathogenic variants. Among those, colorectal (3.72% and
4.43%) (RAD51C/D respectively), pancreatic (1.19% and 0.86%), lung
(1.27% and 2.58%), prostate (1.56% and 1.48%), and leukemia (1.56%
and 1.11%) cancer were the most prevalent types. This work highlights
how both genes might confer susceptibility to a broader spectrum of
cancer types than ovary and breast.
Early Outcomes in Patients with Severe Dilated Left Ventricle Disease after Heart Valve Surgery
Authors: Zhu Siming , Jiang Shengli
Published: September 2021

Objectives: The study sought to examine the prognostic impact of
valvular surgery in patients with severe dilated left ventricle(DL) and
assess morphological and functional changes of DL in the early period
after operation. Methods: From January 2013 to December 2018, at a
single center, 126 patients with severe dilated left ventricle (DL
group) and 511 patients with 511 patients with normal sized left
ventricle (NL group) underwent heart valve surgery. Retrospective review
of the procedure and the postoperative clinical course, including
echocardiography were analyzed in 6 to 12-month follow up. Results:
Compared with NL group, DL group had significantly higher postoperative
all-cause mortality (3.2% vs 1.4%) and complication rate, as well as
longer duration of mechanical ventilation and vasoactive agents support.
In DL group, 4 (3.2%) patients died in the early postoperative stage
among which 2 (1.6%) patients died from multiple organ failure (MOF)
secondary to severe low-output syndrome, 2 (1.6%) patients died from
ventricular fibrillation. The DL group had longer time of mechanical
ventilation and vasoactive agents support than NL group postoperatively.
In DL group, the progressive regression of end-diastole diameter (LVEDD)
was observed during the follow-up; whereas left ventricular ejection
function (LVEF) and left ventricular fractional shortening (LVFS) showed
a temporary decrease in early postoperative stage and then improved
gradually. Conclusion: Heart valve surgery performed in an experienced
center, along with sophisticated perioperative management, could bring
satisfying early outcomes to patients with severe dilated left
ventricle.
Acute meningitis and emphysematous pyelonephritis due to extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing E. coli
Authors: Shabani Minoosh , Shokouhi Shervin , masbough farnoosh , Shoushtari Maryam Taleb , Hakamifard Atousa
Published: September 2021

We present a case of acute meningitis due to extended-spectrum
beta-lactamase-producing E. coli in a patient with immune
thrombocytopenic purpura and diabetes mellitus. This challenging entity
is uncommon but has a high mortality rate. The exact mechanism for the
pathogenesis is not obvious and needs further studies
A new iterative algorithm for solving general variational inclusion problem with application
Authors: Akram M. , Aljohani A.F. , Dilshad M. , Khan Aysha
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we pose a new iterative algorithm and show that this
newly constructed algorithm converges faster than some existing
iterative algorithms. We validate our claim by an illustrative example.
Also, we discuss the convergence of our algorithm to approximate the
solution of a general variational inclusion problem. Also, we present a
numerical example to verify our existence and convergence result.
Finally, we apply our proposed iterative algorithm to solve a delay
differential equation as an application
MR pathway in retinal health and diseases
Authors: Behar-Cohen Francine , Zhao Min
Published: September 2021

In the retina, mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), expressed in vessels,
glial and neuronal cells, is mainly activated by glucocorticoids. Under
pathological conditions, ocular MR expression and corticoids change,
leading in most cases to MR overactivation. Experimental models using MR
agonists or antagonists, administered systemically or intraocularly,
acutely or chronically and transgenic models, allowed to identify the
deleterious consequences of MR pathway overactivation. Among them,
oxidative stress, inflammation, deregulation of hydro-ionic channels,
alteration of choroidal vasculature, angiogenesis and cell death, are
common to major retinal diseases. Specific MR antagonists showed
efficacy in models of diabetic retinopathy, ischaemia, retinal and
choroidal angiogenesis and in models of glaucoma. It is highly likely
that MR antagonists will find a place in the therapeutic arsenal of
age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and in
pachychoroid associated diseases. Their use in humans is still limited
by the need of biomarkers of MR activation and specific ocular
formulations.
Cor Triatriatum Sinistrum: A Rarest Aetiology of Cardiac Chamber Thrombi Mimicking Left Atrial Mass
Authors: Imatsu Osca , Pikir Budi , Nugraha Ricardo Adrian
Published: September 2021

Background. Cor triatriatum is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly,
represent 0.1% of all congenital cardiac malformations and may be
associated with other cardiac diseases in as many as 50% of cases. The
natural history of this defect depends on the size of the communicating
orifice between the upper and lower atrial chamber. Case Presentation.
We reported case of cor triatriatum in a 12 years old girl with chief
complaint of shortness of breath, middle chest discomfort and
palpitation since 5 days prior admission. The diagnosis was based on
clinical features, chest radiography, electrocardiography and
transthoracic echocardiography. Chest radiograph showed rounded cardiac
apex and double contour appearance. ECG showed sinus rhythm, 75 beat per
minute, RAD, CCWR, RVH, RV strain pattern with ST depression and T-wave
inversion in II, III, aVF, V1-V5. TTE revealed 2 chambers of left
atrium, with restrictive supramitral membrane, dilated right atrium,
right ventricle and left atrium, smallish left ventricle, proximal left
atrial thrombus (5.96 x 3.44 cm), relative mitral stenosis, severe
mitral regurgitation, mild aortic regurgitation and severe tricuspid
regurgitation. A diagnosis of cor triatriatum sinister was made. The
only treatment is surgical correction. Medical therapy, with ampicillin
and heparin, was administered during admission. Conclusion. Cor
triatriatum has been reported in a 12-year-old girl. The diagnosis is
confirmed by clinical manifestations, chest radiography and
echocardiography. The only therapy is surgical correction. From the
field of cardiac surgeon, patients are advised to improve their general
conditions before underwent surgical procedures.
Tricuspid chordal rupture following stab injury: a case of successful repair
Authors: Mil-Homens Francisco , Gouveia Daniela , Almeida Jorge , Pinho Paulo
Published: September 2021

We report a case of a 32-year-old male patient who sustained an isolated
stab injury to the left chest wall. He was initially treated with
emergency surgery for right ventricular free wall rupture, with an
uneventful postoperative course. During follow-up, the patient
complained of exercise intolerance and dyspnea on effort. Transthoracic
echocardiography (TTE) demonstrated a previously undiagnosed severe
tricuspid regurgitation due to flail of the anterior leaflet and a
ruptured chorda. A redo operation was scheduled, and the valve was
successfully repaired, with different techniques employed. This case
highlights the importance of careful clinical evaluation of victims of
chest penetrating trauma and how early diagnosis of hidden valvular
lesions might increase the odds of valve repair. It also demonstrates
the clover technique as a valuable technique in the correction of
traumatic tricuspid regurgitation.
EVALUATION OF EYE CARE AND OCULAR FINDINGS IN CRITICALLY ILL COVID-19 PATIENTS
Authors: Gök Zarife Ekici , Gök Abdullah , delen leman acun , Kasapoglu Umut Sabri , Gürbüz Esra , Mutlu Kayhan
Published: September 2021

Objective: The current study aimed to evaluate eye care needs along with
ocular findings in patients treated in intensive care units due to
Covid-19 infection. Materials and Methods: A total of 93 patients, 58
men and 35 women, who were under follow-up and treatment in intensive
care due to COVID-19 infection between 01/01/2021 and 02/15/2021 were
included in the study. Detailed eye examinations of the patients were
performed with a portable handheld biomicroscope and direct and indirect
ophthalmoscope. Cases requiring treatment for eye diseases were
identified and treated. Results: The mean patient age was 68.32 ± 9.97
years; 35 patients were followed-up and treated with non-invasive
mechanical ventilation and 58 patients with invasive mechanical
ventilation support. Mild, moderate, and severe chemosis was observed in
19 patients (20.4%), 10 patients (10.8%), and 4 patients (4.3%),
respectively. Conjunctivitis (8.6%) was observed in 8 patients. Corneal
abrasion was present in 7 patients (7.5%). Keratitis secondary to
exposure keratopathy was observed in one patient. Eye care and medical
treatment was initiated for these patients. We noted 8 patients (8.6%)
with retinal haemorrhage; however, to the best of our knowledge, these
patients may show acute retinal involvement secondary to systemic
diseases or have previous retinal findings other than Covid-19 infection
or treatments. Conclusion: Findings of ocular involvement due to
COVID-19 infection were detected in the present study. Retinal
haemorrhages were detected in addition to the common findings in viral
infections. Especially in patients supported with mechanical
ventilation, the detection and treatment of conditions that require eye
care for exposure keratopathy is very important for recovering from the
disease and the quality of vision.
Radiculopathies caused by spontaneous pneumorrachis: two case reports and review of literature
Authors: Ferjani Hanene , ammar lobna ben , Kaffel Dhia , Maatallah kaouther , Triki wafa , Nessib Dorra Ben , Hamdi Wafa
Published: September 2021

Pneumorrachis, defined as the presence of intraspinal air, is a rare
radiographic finding. It is mostly caused by traumatic and iatrogenic
etiologies such as pneumothoraces or pneumomediastinum. Spontaneous
pneumorrachis attributable to degenerative disc disease is an
exceptional condition. We report two cases of radiculopathy caused by
spontaneous pneumorrachis.
Frequency and Factors Associated with Foregone and Delayed Medical Care due to COVID-19 Among Non-Elderly US Adults from August to December 2020
Authors: Giannouchos Theodoros , Brooks John M. , Andreyeva Elena , Ukert Benjamin
Published: September 2021

Objectives: To estimate the frequency and factors associated with
foregone and delayed medical care attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic
among non-elderly adults from August to December 2020 in the US.
Methods: We used three survey waves from the Urban Institute’s Household
Pulse Survey (HPS) collected between August 19 to 31, October 14 to 26,
and December 9 to 21. The final sample included 155,825 non-elderly (18
to 64) respondents representing 135,835,598 million individuals in the
US. We used two multivariable logistic regressions to estimate the
association between respondents’ characteristics and foregone and
delayed care. Results: The frequency of foregone and delayed medical
care were 26.9% and 35.9%, respectively. Across all income levels,
around 60% of respondents reported difficulties in paying for usual
household expenses in the last 7 days. More than half reported several
days of mental health issues. The regression results indicated that
foregone or delayed care were significantly associated with difficulties
in paying usual household expenses (across all income levels)
(P<.001), worse self-reported health status
(P<.001), increased mental health problems (P<.001),
Veterans Affairs (P<.001) or Medicaid (P=.002) coverage
compared to private healthcare coverage, and older age groups.
Individuals who participated in the latter two waves of the survey
(October, December) were less likely to report foregone and delayed care
compared to those who participated in wave 1 (August). Conclusion:
Overall, the frequency of foregone and delayed medical care remained
high from August to December 2020 among non-elderly US adults. Our
findings highlight that pandemic-induced access barriers are major
drivers of reduced healthcare provision during the second half of the
pandemic and highlight the need for policies to support patients in
seeking timely care.
Mass transfer characteristics and biological effect of flue gas during microalgae culture
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Wen , Xu Yu , sun zhongliang
Published: September 2021

Not only carbon dioxide (CO2) but also air pollutants, such as sulfur
oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), are present in flue gas, and
their reasonable and effective utilization is conducive to reducing the
cost of microalgal biomass production. By utilizing simulated flue gas,
the absorption characteristics of different components in transfer units
were explored. The results showed that the presence of SO2 decreased the
absorptivity of CO2, which reduced the concentration of the available
carbon source for microalgal cells in the culture medium at the same pH
value. Moreover, the presence of high-concentration oxygen (O2) in flue
gas could improve the absorptivity of nitric oxide (NO). Scenedesmus
dimorphus was cultured by using sulfur- or nitrogen-deficient culture
media. The results showed that SOx and NOx in flue gas did not
significantly influence the growth and biochemical compositions of
microalgal cells when these gases were dissolved in water. Based on the
above results and the metabolic kinetics of microalgal cells for
nutrient elements, an adjustment strategy for the initial gas source
when culturing microalgae with flue gas is proposed: (1) flue gas should
be partially desulfurized so that the SOx and CO2 concentrations after
desulfurization satisfy a certain relationship with the components; and
(2) denitrification should not be performed because flue gas can be
oxidized before utilization to increase the rate of utilization of NO.
Absent Pulmonary Valve with L-Transposition of Great Arteries: A Case report
Authors: Sakai Wataru , Asai Hidetsugu , Oyasu Takafumi , Arai Yosuke , Ebuoka Noriyoshi , Oba Jun
Published: September 2021

Absent pulmonary valve syndrome and L-transposition of the great
arteries are rare congenital anomalies. To our knowledge, patients with
both have not been previously reported. We present a case of surgical
success in the patient with absent pulmonary valve, L-transposition of
the great arteries, dextrocardia, double outlet left ventricle,
hypoplastic anatomical right ventricle, valvular aortic stenosis and
tracheomalacia. We performed anatomical left ventricle to pulmonary
artery shunt using an 8-mm expanded polytetrafluoroethylene
bicuspid-valved conduit, pulmonary artery plication, and tracheostomy.
The patient was discharged in a stable condition while waiting for the
Glenn procedure until getting her parent’s permission.
Genomic evidence of an ancient Inland Temperate Rainforest
Authors: Ruffley Megan , Smith Megan , Espindola Anahi , Turck Daniel , Mitchell Niels , Carstens Bryan , Sullivan Jack , Tank David
Published: September 2021

The disjunct temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest of North
America (PNW) are characterized by late-successional dominant tree
species western redcedar (Thuja plicata) and western hemlock (Tsuga
heterophylla). The demographics of these species, along with the PNW
rainforest ecosystem in its entirety, have been heavily impacted by the
geological and climatic changes the PNW has experienced over the last 5
million years, including mountain orogeny and repeated Pleistocene
glaciations. These environmental events have ultimately shaped the
history of these species, with inland segments potentially being
extirpated during the Pleistocene glaciation. Here, we collect genomic
data for both species across their ranges in order to develop multiple
demographic models, each reflecting a different hypothesis on how the
ecosystem dominant species may have responded to dramatic climatic
change. Results indicate that inland and coastal populations in both
species diverged an estimated ~2.5 million years ago and
experienced a decrease in population size during glaciation, with a
subsequent population expansion. Importantly, we found evidence for
gene-flow between coastal and inland populations during the
mid-Holocene. It is likely that intermittent migration in these species
has prevented allopatric speciation. In conclusion, the combination of
genomic data and population demographic inference procedures involving
machine learning establish that populations of the ecosystem dominants
Thuja plicata and Tsuga heterophylla persisted in refugia located in
both the coastal and inland regions, with populations expanding and
contracting in response to glacial cycles with occasional gene-flow.
The Potential Use of Electromagnetic Radiation to Combat Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Particles: A Numerical Analysis
Authors: Raad Haider , Terry Colin
Published: September 2021

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has shown the danger that
can be caused by small, airborne and contagious virus particles such as
severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). To prevent
the mass spreading of such viruses, the use of electromagnetic waves
could be used to combat the spreading of the virus. Particularly, the
waves could force any virus particles to oscillate in resonance with the
frequency of the wave and destroy themselves before the virus would
enter the respiratory system. This paper describes the use of numerical
simulations to analyze the effects of exposing a SARS-CoV-2 particle to
electromagnetic waves at a range of frequencies and to determine which
frequencies have the potential of causing resonance within the virus
which would yield to the maximum energy absorption. Such technique could
be utilized in preventive/protective devices and disinfection equipment.
Recent hydrological droughts in Brazil and their impacts on energy security
Authors: Cuartas Luz , Cunha Ana Paula , Alves Jessica , Pinto Larissa , Leal Karinne Deusdará , Costa Lidiane , Molina Ruben , Broedel Elisangela , Araújo Pamela , Seluchi Marcelo , Amore Diogo , Alvalá Regina , Marengo Jose
Published: September 2021

Brazil is heavily reliant on water resources. Hydroelectric plants
generate about 64% of all electricity consumed. To increase yield
capacity, a 2050 expansion is also planned. 78% of water used is for
agriculture (irrigation and livestock), 9% for industry, and 9.1% for
urban supply. However, the country has endured the worst droughts in
recorded history over the last two decades, resulting in severe
socioeconomic and environmental impacts. The purpose of this study was
to determine the current state of knowledge regarding hydrological
drought patterns, hydrometeorological factors, and their effects on the
country’s hydroelectric power plants. Droughts have occurred in most of
Brazil’s regions since 2014/15, causing severe impacts in many of the
basins studied. Now that most hydroelectric power plants are operating
at a fraction of their total capacity, the country’s hydroelectric
generation is been impacted.
An insight on 3D Bioink for fabricating porous materials for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Chakrapani Gayathri , Christopher Jaykumar Gladstone , sahu Bindia
Published: September 2021

Fabrication of biomaterials for Tissue Engineering application by
bioprinting has gained enormous attention in the research field, owing
to their rapid and reproducibility factor. Progress in organic based
mesoporous particles is of great interest in order to accomplish in
tissue engineering treatments. Recently, researchers are focusing on
different 3D bioinks for attaining 3D matrices to accommodate the drugs
and cells for biological efficacies. Bioprinting is a promising field of
biomaterials and regenerative medicine for the next generation
therapeutics. Different polymeric substances are being evaluated for
their printablity based on their rheological and biological properties.
Structural fidelity is stabilized by crosslinking methods and their
adaptability to microenvironment is assessed using Invitro assays.
External Factors such as concentration, temperature, medium and
crosslinking agents are the critical determinants for the bionks to
achieve the required functionality. Moreover, the choice base chemicals
used for the formulation plays a vital role in the cell viability and
proliferation that lead to specific tissue growth. The mechanical
strength, elastic moduli to bear strength is anchored by the porous
nature of the printed scaffolds. Therefore, the influence of porosity in
the mechanical and biological strength adds an appropriate value to the
printed biomaterial. The present review discusses about the significance
of bioprinting technique and strategies employed for printability and to
achieve porosity in the developed materials
The Relationship between Lateral Nasal Wall Collapse and Nasal Obstruction, a case-control study
Authors: Jang Yong Ju , Bae Mi Rye , Choi Woo Ri
Published: September 2021

Objectives In clinical practice, lateral nasal wall collapse during
forced inspiration is widely regarded as a sign of nasal obstruction or
criterion indicating nasal valve surgery. This study aims to evaluate
the relationship between the degree of lateral nasal wall collapse and
subjective nasal obstruction. Design Case-Control study Setting Tertiary
centre hospital Participants Case group consisted of 24 patients who had
been diagnosed with a deviated nasal septum or nasal valve stenosis.
Control group consisted of 27 volunteers with no nasal obstruction
symptoms and no septal deviation on nasal endoscopy. Main outcome
measures Lateral nasal wall collapse is determined by the degree of
lateral nasal wall triangle (LNWT) area reduction on frontal view during
forced inspiration compared to quiet inspiration. LNWT area ratio of the
patient and control groups was compared. The relationship between the
lateral nasal wall collapse and clinical factors including symptom
scores, nasal valve angles, skin thickness were evaluated. Results The
average LNWT area ratio of the patient (n=24) and control groups (n=27)
was 0.96 and 0.83 respectively (p=0.001). Symptom score (NOSE and VAS)
is not related to the degree of lateral nasal wall collapse. Moreover,
nasal valve angle and skin thickness were also not related to the degree
of lateral nasal wall collapse. In 14 of the 19 patients, the more
obstructed side corresponded to the side of narrower nasal valve angle,
and 5 were not. Conclusion Lateral nasal wall collapse is not related to
a patients’ nasal obstruction.
Comparing genome scans among species of the stickleback order reveals three different patterns of genetic diversity
Authors: Reeve James , Li Qiushi , Lindtke Dorothea , Yeaman Sam
Published: September 2021

Comparing genome scans among species is a powerful approach for
investigating the patterns left by evolutionary processes. In
particular, this offers a way to detect candidate genes that drive
convergent evolution. We compared genome scan results to investigate if
patterns of genetic diversity and divergence are shared among divergent
species within the stickleback order (Gasterosteiformes): the threespine
stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), ninespine stickleback (Pungitius
pungitus) and tubesnout (Aulorhynchus flavidus). Populations were
sampled from the southern and northern edges of each species’ range, to
identify patterns associated with latitudinal changes in genetic
diversity. Weak correlations in genetic diversity (F
and expected heterozygosity) and three different patterns in the genomic
landscape were found among these species. Additionally, no candidate
genes for convergent evolution were detected. This is a counterexample
to the growing number of studies that have shown overlapping genetic
patterns, demonstrating that genome scan comparisons can be noisy due to
the effects of several interacting evolutionary forces.