bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Uterotonic Screening of the Root Extract of Azanza garckeana (Malvaceae) on Isolated Wistar Rat Uterine Smooth Muscles
Authors: Chanda Alfred , Simwinga Freddie , Kaonga Patrick , Gono-Bwalya Angela , Prashar Lavina
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Azanza garckeana (F.Hoffm.) Exell and Hillc. (family: Malvalceae) is traditionally used to induce or accelerate labour in pregnant women in Chongwe, Zambia, and the plant part which is commonly used are the roots. Aim. The aim of this study was to screen Azanza garckeana crude extracts for uterotonic activity on isolated Wistar rat uterine smooth muscles. The likely mechanism of action for the plant extract was also investigated. Materials and Methods. Fresh leaves and roots of the plant were collected and identified by a botanist at the University of Zambia. The methanol and cold root aqueous extracts were prepared by continuous maceration while the hot aqueous root extract was extracted using the Soxhlet method. The crude extracts of the plant were screened for uterotonic activity using uterine smooth muscles isolated from estrogenised adult nongravid female Wistar rats weighing between 160 g and 200 g. The activity of the plant was also evaluated in the presence of antagonists and tocolytic agents to determine the likely mechanism of action. Results. The hot aqueous root crude extract (22.26%) had the highest yield followed by the cold aqueous (11.32%) and methanol extracts (6.26%), respectively. The methanol crude root extract demonstrated the highest potency (EC50 = 1.28 × 10−2 mg/ml; 95% CI 6.418 × 10−3 to 2.564 × 10−2; p = 0.0001), while the cold aqueous extract was the most efficacious. Salbutamol and nifedipine significantly blocked the uterotonic activity of the extract. Conclusions. This study provides scientific evidence on the uterotonic activity of Azanza garckeana with myometrial calcium mobilization as the possible mechanism of action.
Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Behavior of Sandstone with Different Moisture Contents Using the Acoustic Emission Technique
Authors: Li Chuanming , Liu Nan , Liu Wanrong
Published: December 2020

The moisture content is a critical factor tightly related to rock deformation and its failure process since it leads to a significant change in the physicomechanical properties of rock during the underground engineering construction. As a result, engineering construction accidents take place frequently. To figure out the influence of the moisture content on the physicomechanical properties of water‐bearing rock and then effectively avoid engineering accidents, multiple tests including the uniaxial compression test, Brazilian splitting test, and the acoustic emission (AE) test were carried out in this study. The experimental results showed that the water absorption rate of the sandstone gradually stabilizes after 5 h, and its uniaxial compressive strength, tensile strength, and elastic modulus all decline with the increase of the moisture content. Compared to the dry state of the sample, the reduction amplitudes of the elastic modulus, compressive strength, and tensile strength of water‐saturated rock samples can reach up to 27.3%, 35.2%, and 38.1%, respectively. It indicates that the tensile strength is more sensitive to the softening effect of the moisture. Through the AE test, it can be found that the internal state of water‐saturated rock samples is greatly changed; the compressive strength of rock samples drops, so the rock can be damaged after absorbing less energy. Thus, moisture shows a certain softening effect on rock. The research results are expected to provide a basis for underground engineering construction and rock fracture and failure.
A New Erosive Burning Model of Solid Propellant Based on Heat Transfer Equilibrium at Propellant Surface
Authors: Ma Yanjie , Bao Futing , Sun Lin , Liu Yang , Hui Weihua
Published: December 2020

Erosive burning refers to the augmentation of propellant burning rate appears when the velocity of combustion gas flowing parallel to the propellant surface is relatively high. Erosive burning can influence the total burning rate of propellant and performance of solid rocket motors dramatically. There have been many different models to evaluate erosive burning rate for now. Yet, due to the complication processes involving in propellant and solid rocket motor combustion, unknown constants often exist in these models. To use these models, trial-and-error procedure must be implemented to determine the unknown constants firstly. This makes many models difficult to estimate erosive burning before plenty of experiments. In this paper, a new erosive burning rate model is proposed based on the assumption that the erosive burning rate is proportional to the heat flux at the propellant surface. With entrance effect, roughness, and transpiration considered, convective heat transfer coefficient correlation proposed in recent years is used to compute the heat flux. This allows the release of unknown constants, making the model universal and easy to implement. The computational data of the model are compared with different experimental and computational data from different models. Results show that good accuracy (10%) with experiments can be achieved by this model. It is concluded that the present model could be used universally for erosive burning rate evaluation of propellant and performance prediction of solid rocket motor as well.
A Chemiluminescent Immunoassay for Osteocalcin in Human Serum and a Solution to the “Hook Effect”
Authors: Han Shuang , Xue Yifeng , Zhang Junlan , Huang Jianrong , Liu Xiuxia , Yang Yankun , Bai Zhonghu , Wang Chunxin
Published: December 2020

A chemiluminescent immunoassay for human serum osteocalcin, or bone Gla protein, was established using a double-antibody sandwich model. Examination of the hook effect revealed that it was significantly reduced, and no hook effect was observed at an osteocalcin concentration of 4000 ng/mL. The established method showed good analytical performance and thermal stability. The limit of detection was 0.03 ng/mL. The intra-assay coefficient of variation (CV) was 3.22%–5.64%, the interassay CV was 4.42%–7.25%, and the recovery rate was 93.22%–107.99%. Cross-reactivity (CR) was not observed with bovine, rat, mouse, rabbit, or porcine samples. The developed method showed a good correlation with the N-MID product from Roche. In total, 1069 clinical patient samples were measured using the reagent kit developed in this study.
Mitochondria as a Novel Target for Cancer Chemoprevention: Emergence of Mitochondrial-targeting Agents
Authors: Huang Mofei , Myers Charles R. , Wang Yian , You Ming
Published: December 2020

Cancer chemoprevention is the most effective approach to control cancer in the population. Despite significant progress, chemoprevention has not been widely adopted because agents that are safe tend to be less effective and those that are highly effective tend to be toxic. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop novel and effective chemopreventive agents, such as mitochondria-targeted agents, that can prevent cancer and prolong survival. Mitochondria, the central site for cellular energy production, have important functions in cell survival and death. Several studies have revealed a significant role for mitochondrial metabolism in promoting cancer development and progression, making mitochondria a promising new target for cancer prevention. Conjugating delocalized lipophilic cations, such as triphenylphosphonium cation (TPP+), to compounds of interest is an effective approach for mitochondrial targeting. The hyperpolarized tumor cell membrane and mitochondrial membrane potential allow for selective accumulation of TPP+ conjugates in tumor cell mitochondria versus those in normal cells. This could enhance direct killing of precancerous, dysplastic, and tumor cells while minimizing potential toxicities to normal cells.
Oxidized Lipoproteins Promote Resistance to Cancer Immunotherapy Independent of Patient Obesity
Authors: Khojandi Niloufar , Kuehm Lindsey M. , Piening Alexander , Donlin Maureen J. , Hsueh Eddy C. , Schwartz Theresa L. , Farrell Kaitlin , Richart John M. , Geerling Elizabeth , Pinto Amelia K. , George Sarah L. , Albert Carolyn J. , Ford David A. , Chen Xiufen , Kline Justin , Teague Ryan M.
Published: December 2020

Antitumor immunity is impaired in obese mice. Mechanistic insight into this observation remains sparse and whether it is recapitulated in patients with cancer is unclear because clinical studies have produced conflicting and controversial findings. We addressed this by analyzing data from patients with a diverse array of cancer types. We found that survival after immunotherapy was not accurately predicted by body mass index or serum leptin concentrations. However, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) in serum was identified as a suppressor of T-cell function and a driver of tumor cytoprotection mediated by heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Analysis of a human melanoma gene expression database showed a clear association between higher HMOX1 (HO-1) expression and reduced progression-free survival. Our in vivo experiments using mouse models of both melanoma and breast cancer revealed HO-1 as a mechanism of resistance to anti-PD1 immunotherapy but also exposed HO-1 as a vulnerability that could be exploited therapeutically using a small-molecule inhibitor. In conclusion, our clinical data have implicated serum ox-LDL as a mediator of therapeutic resistance in patients with cancer, operating as a double-edged sword that both suppressed T-cell immunity and simultaneously induced HO-1–mediated tumor cell protection. Our studies also highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting HO-1 during immunotherapy, encouraging further translational development of this combination approach.

See article by Kuehm et al., p. 227
Übereinstimmung zwischen Eltern und Kind zur kindlichen Psychopathologie und deren Bedeutung für den Therapieerfolg
Authors: Asbrand Julia , Foltys Leonie , Ebeling Lydia , Tuschen-Caffier Brunna
Published: December 2020

Hintergrund: Symptome psychischer Störungen werden von Kindern und Jugendlichen häufig anders als von den Eltern eingeschätzt. Als Einflussfaktoren für diese Urteilsdiskrepanzen im externalisierenden und internalisierenden Symptombereich werden kindliches Geschlecht und Alter untersucht. Zudem wird der prädiktive Wert der Diskrepanz für den wahrgenommenen Therapieerfolg analysiert. Methode: Kinder und Jugendliche (n = 271, 10–21 Jahre) in ambulanter Psychotherapie sowie Eltern gaben Auskunft über den Youth Self Report (YSR) und die Child Behavioral Checklist (CBCL). Ergebnisse: Neben einer grundsätzlich guten Übereinstimmung zwischen Eltern und Kind berichten Eltern über mehr psychische Symptome als die davon betroffenen Kinder. Mit zunehmendem Alter steigt die von den Kindern selbstberichtete externalisierende Symptomatik an. Mädchen geben mehr internalisierende Symptome als Jungen an. Ein hoher elterlicher Baselinewert (prä-Therapie) zur kindlichen externalisierenden Symptomatik sagt einen höheren Elternbericht nach Abschluss der Psychotherapie des Kindes vorher. Kinder berichten nach der Psychotherapie mehr Symptome, wenn Uneinigkeit zwischen Eltern und Kindern bezüglich der internalisierenden Symptomatik prä-Therapie besteht sowie eine hohe kindberichtete externalisierende bzw. elternberichtete internalisierende Symptomatik berichtet wird. Schlussfolgerung: Insgesamt zeigen sich einzelne Faktoren prädiktiv für die Symptomatik post-Therapie, jedoch die Eltern-Kind Urteilsdiskrepanz nur in geringem Maß. Beeinflussende Faktoren wie Alter und Geschlecht sollten in zukünftigen Studien standardmäßig aufgenommen werden.
Analysis of the Interaction between Polygenic Risk Score and Calorie Intake in Obesity in the Korean Population
Authors: Lee Won-Jun , Lim Ji Eun , Jung Hae Un , Kang Ji-One , Park Taesung , Won Sungho , Rhee Sang Youl , Kim Mi Kyung , Kim Yeon-Jung , Oh Bermseok
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Obesity results from an imbalance in the intake and expenditure of calories that leads to lifestyle-related diseases. Although genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed many obesity-related genetic factors, the interactions of these factors and calorie intake remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate interactions between calorie intake and the polygenic risk score (PRS) of BMI. Methods: Three cohorts, i.e., from the Korea Association REsource (KARE; n = 8,736), CArdioVAscular Disease Association Study (CAVAS; n = 9,334), and Health EXAminee (HEXA; n = 28,445), were used for this study. BMI-related genetic loci were selected from previous GWAS. Two scores, PRS, and association (a)PRS, were used; the former was determined from 193 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 5 GWAS datasets, and the latter from 62 SNPs (potentially associated) from 3 Korean cohorts (meta-analysis, p < 0.01). Results: PRS and aPRS were significantly associated with BMI in all 3 cohorts but did not exhibit a significant interaction with total calorie intake. Similar results were obtained for obesity. PRS and aPRS were significantly associated with obesity but did not show a significant interaction with total calorie intake. We further analyzed the interaction with protein, fat, and carbohydrate intake. The results were similar to those for total calorie intake, with PRS and aPRS found to not be associated with the interaction of any of the 3 nutrition components for either BMI or obesity. Discussion: The interaction of BMI PRS with calorie intake was investigated in 3 independent Korean cohorts (total n = 35,094) and no interactions were found between PRS and calorie intake for obesity.
First Case of Regression of Carcinoid Heart Disease on Serial Transthoracic Echocardiograms following Octreotide Monotherapy in a Patient with Metastatic Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Nath Ermin , Sawyer Michael B. , Choy Jonathan
Published: December 2020

Well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) arising in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and pancreas are relatively rare; however, the annual incidence has been increasing. Carcinoid syndrome (CS) is a constellation of symptoms that occur when a GI NET metastasizes to the liver and releases high levels of vasoactive substances into the systemic circulation. CS occurs in 19% of NETs patients at diagnosis and is associated with shorter survival. Carcinoid heart disease (CHD) occurs in over 50% of patients with CS and is associated with poor long-term prognosis. NET-induced valvular fibrosis is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in these patients. Somatostatin analogs relieve CS symptoms, but they have never been shown to reverse CHD progression or improve overall survival. Surgical therapy for right-sided valve disease is associated with improved symptoms and quality of life and possibly improved survival, despite relatively high morbidity and mortality associated with cardiac intervention. A 65-year-old woman with a metastatic pancreatic NET had typical signs and symptoms of CS. She presented in congestive heart failure and was found to have severe tricuspid regurgitation with characteristic features of CHD on transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE). Following octreotide monotherapy, serial TTEs demonstrated regression of tricuspid valve involvement. The patient improved clinically and remained asymptomatic on subsequent visits. This is the first case of CHD regression with medical therapy supported by serial TTEs. Developing a deeper understanding of cases like this will help us unlock new intervention targets and strategies for treatments in the future.
Moderate Hyperhomocysteinemia along with Increased Levels of Vitamin B12 in a 21-Year-Old Male with the Sanfilippo Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Detopoulou Paraskevi , Chini Maria , Kalonarchi Garifalia , Detopoulou Maria , Papamikos Vasilios , Karampeli Maria , Kollia Christina , Lazanas Marios K.
Published: December 2020

The Sanfilippo syndrome is an autosomal recessive mucopolysaccharidosis. Homocysteine and B12 status have not been described in this syndrome. A 21-year-old bedridden male with the Sanfilippo syndrome was hospitalized. He was in poor nutritional status according to laboratory and somatometric findings, he had an enlarged liver, moderate aortic valve insufficiency and was under antiepileptic, antipsychotic and anti-cholinergic therapy. The patient had moderate hyperhomocysteinemia (16.9 μmol/L) with co-existing high levels of serum B12 (1,765 pg/mL). In addition, cystathionine, methionine sulphoxide and certain amino acids were measured. It was hypothesized that a “functional” deficiency of vitamin B12 may be due to problematic transcobalamin-vitamin B12 complex dissociation. Moreover, the patient’s cardiovascular background and/or medical treatment may explain the observed hyperhomocysteinemia. B12 and homocysteine status should be assessed in Sanfilippo patients. This report suggests that checking vitamin B12 and homocysteine status may be useful in the Sanfilippo syndrome.
What the COVID-19 Pandemic Showed Us: Limited Time Resources as an Important Factor of Diabetes Management
Authors: Pafili Zoe
Published: December 2020

COVID-19 related restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus result in changes in daily routines and physical activity which can have a negative effect on eating and health habits. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with diabetes and their nutrition and health behaviours. A survey conducted in July 2020 included 124 individuals with type 1 (n = 90) and 2 (n = 34) diabetes mellitus from Poland. To assess nutritional and health behaviours, an online questionnaire covering basic information, anthropometric data, and details regarding physical activity, eating, and hygiene habits was used. Almost 40% of all respondents with type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) stated that their disease self-management had significantly improved. Over 60% of all participants declared that they had started eating more nutritious and regular meals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhanced hygiene, in particular, during the period, a statistically significant increase in hand sanitiser use was reported by respondents (18% vs. 82%, p < 0.001). The study demonstrated that the pandemic had a significant impact on the behaviour of patients with DM. Improved disease self-management and making healthy, informed food and hygiene choices were observed.
A Prelude to Material Hermeneutics (2021)
Authors:   Stony Brook University, Ihde Don
Published: December 2020

This paper, originally given in Groningen, the Netherlands, proposed a ‘material hermeneutics’, or, metaphorically, an interpretation which “lets things speak” via new scientific imaging technologies. Such a material hermeneutics would add to, perhaps often displace the usual linguistictextual hermeneutics so refined by Paul Ricoeur. I outline several examples of such a hermeneutics here based on some 40 or more years of technoscience experience.
Prevención de riesgo psicosocial en adolescentes: el rol de los Centros de Día de Menores en España
Authors: Capella Castillo Sergio , Navarro-Pérez José Javier
Published: December 2020

Resumen (analítico)El artículo analiza la función de los Centros de Día de Menores (CDM) como recursos especializados en la intervención socioeducativa con adolescentes en riesgo. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa, en la que se han integrado diferentes técnicas con el fin de triangular evidencias objetivas. En el plano metodológico participó una muestra de 30 profesionales, implementando diferentes técnicas: entrevistas y grupos de discusión. Los datos obtenidos se codificaron y categorizaron. Los resultados destacan la especificidad de los CDM como recurso de proximidad en el proceso de socialización y de acompañamiento progresivo, individualizado y flexible de adolescentes en riesgo. Las conclusiones inciden en la especialización del recurso en la atención a adolescentes que atraviesan procesos vitales complejos y en la consolidación del recurso como alternativa socioeducativa a la educación formal, utilizando en el territorio como generador de oportunidades.
Palabras clave: Centros de Día de menores, adolescentes, riesgo social, prevención.
Jugular Vein Injection of High-Titer Lentiviral Vectors Does Not Transduce the Aorta—Brief Report
Authors: Bi Lianxiang , Wacker Bradley K. , Stamatikos Alexis , Sethuraman Meena , Komandur Kaushik , Dichek David A.
Published: December 2020

Objective:

Efficient gene transfer to the vascular wall via intravenous vector injection would be useful for experimental vascular biology and gene therapy. Initial studies of lentiviral vector tropism suggested that intravenously injected vectors do not transduce murine vascular tissue; however, there are also reports of highly efficient aortic transduction after jugular vein injection of high-titer lentiviral vectors. We sought to reproduce these results.

Approach and Results:

We injected high-titer preparations of GFP (green fluorescent protein)-expressing lentiviral vector into jugular veins of 8 mice; 6 mice received vehicle only. Four days later, samples of aorta (thoracic and abdominal), liver, spleen, and other tissues were harvested and processed for quantitative polymerase chain reaction detection of vector DNA and immunohistochemical detection of GFP. Our vector DNA assay did not detect transduction of any of the 16 aortic segments. This finding excludes an aortic transduction efficiency of >0.02 vector copies per cell. In contrast, vector DNA was detected in all 8 spleen and liver extracts (median, 0.8 and 0.1 vector copies per cell, respectively;
P
<0.001 versus vehicle controls). Quantitative polymerase chain reaction signals from DNA extracted from heart, lung, kidney, skeletal muscle, and femoral artery did not differ from background polymerase chain reaction signals from DNA extracted from tissues of vehicle-injected mice (
P
≥0.7 for all). Immunohistochemistry revealed GFP in scattered cells in spleen and liver, not in aorta.

Conclusions:

Injection of high-titer lentiviral vectors via the jugular vein transduces cells in the spleen and liver but does not efficiently transduce the aorta.

Graphic Abstract:

A graphic abstract is available for this article.
Circadian Pattern of Ion Channel Gene Expression in Failing Human Hearts
Authors: McTiernan Charles F. , Lemster Bonnie H. , Bedi Kenneth C. , Margulies Kenneth B. , Moravec Christine S. , Hsieh Paishiun Nelson , Shusterman Vladimir , Saba Samir
Published: December 2020

Background:

Ventricular tachyarrhythmias and sudden cardiac death show a circadian pattern of occurrence in patients with heart failure. In the rodent ventricle, a significant portion of genes, including some ion channels, shows a circadian pattern of expression. However, genes that define electrophysiological properties in failing human heart ventricles have not been examined for a circadian expression pattern.

Methods:

Ventricular tissue samples were collected from patients at the time of cardiac transplantation. Two sets of samples (n=37 and 46, one set with a greater arrhythmic history) were selected to generate pseudo-time series according to their collection time. A third set (n=27) of samples was acquired from the nonfailing ventricles of brain-dead donors. The expression of 5 known circadian clock genes and 19 additional ion channel genes plausibly important to electrophysiological properties were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and then analyzed for the percentage of expression variation attributed to a 24-hour circadian pattern.

Results:

The 5 known circadian clock gene transcripts showed a strong circadian expression pattern. Compared with rodent hearts, the human circadian clock gene transcripts showed a similar temporal order of acrophases but with a ≈7.6 hours phase shift. Five of the ion channel genes also showed strong circadian expression. Comparable studies of circadian clock gene expression in samples recovered from nonheart failure brain-dead donors showed acrophase shifts, or weak or complete loss of circadian rhythmicity, suggesting alterations in circadian gene expression.

Conclusions:

Ventricular tissue from failing human hearts display a circadian pattern of circadian clock gene expression but phase-shifted relative to rodent hearts. At least 5 ion channels show a circadian expression pattern in the ventricles of failing human hearts, which may underlie a circadian pattern of ventricular tachyarrhythmia/sudden cardiac death. Nonfailing hearts from brain-dead donors show marked differences in circadian clock gene expression patterns, suggesting fundamental deviations from circadian expression.
Judeo-Persian Elegies on the Death of Nāṣir al-Dīn Shāh (r. 1848–1896)
Authors: Moreen Vera B.
Published: December 2020

Judeo-Persian manuscripts include many surprising and hitherto unstudied texts. Among them are a number of anonymous elegies on the death of Nāṣir al-Dīn Shāh (r. 1848–1896). This study focuses on the question of their authorship. Based on internal evidence, these poems, replete with textual problems and variants probably caused by oral transmission, were most likely penned by Muslim writers and copied into Judeo-Persian by Jews. For despite this monarch’s uneven and ineffective protection of Iran’s Jewish minority during his reign, some Jews had obviously been deeply moved by his assassination to the point of copying dirges likely in circulation after the Shāh’s death.
Description of Pericelis flavomarginata sp. nov. (Polycladida: Cotylea) and its predatory behavior on a scaleworm
Authors: TSUYUKI AOI , OYA YUKI , JIMI NAOTO , KAJIHARA HIROSHI
Published: December 2020

We describe a new species of polyclad flatworm, Pericelis flavomarginata sp. nov., from the intertidal and subtidal zones along localities on the Pacific coast of Japan. Pericelis flavomarginata sp. nov. is characterized by i) the dorsal surface of the body fringed by a lemon-yellow line except for the tip of tentacles, with a narrow brown midline running from the anterior edge of the body to the posterior end of the pharynx, ii) the pair of marginal tentacles with the tips extending and tapering, and iii) the presence of a common gonopore. Our molecular phylogenetic analysis revealed that selected Pericelis species were divided into two clades, each of which may be agreed with a characteristic dorsal color pattern. Additionally, we report an observation on the feeding behavior of P. flavomarginata sp. nov. on the polychaete Iphione muricata (Savigny in Lamarck, 1818).
The genus Syspira Simon, 1895 (Araneae: Miturgidae) from Hispaniola, with the description of four new species
Authors: SÁNCHEZ-RUIZ ALEXANDER , DE LOS SANTOS GABRIEL , BRESCOVIT ANTONIO D. , BONALDO ALEXANDRE B.
Published: December 2020

The species of Syspira Simon from Hispaniola are revised and detailed documentation is provided for all known species from this island. Four new species (Syspira alayoni sp. n., S.  armasi sp. n., S.  barbacoa sp. n., and S.  bryantae sp. n.), and the unknown male of Syspira agujas Brescovit, Sánchez-Ruiz & Bonaldo are described. New distribution records were found for three known species (S. agujas, S. cimitarra Brescovit, Sánchez-Ruiz & Bonaldo and S.  medialuna Brescovit, Sánchez-Ruiz & Bonaldo). The Hispaniolan endemic species Teminius monticola (Bryant, 1948) is transferred to Syspira based on the revision of its holotype. A key for Hispaniola Syspira species is provided. These species can be separated into two distinct groups based on features of the male palpal morphology and female genitalia: the cimitarra group including S. cimitarra, S. jimmyi Brescovit, Sánchez-Ruiz & Bonaldo, S. alayoni and S. barbacoa sp. n., and the agujas group including S. agujas, S. medialuna, S. monticola comb. n., S. armasi sp. n. and S. bryantae sp. n.
Estimating Error Variances of a Microwave Sensor and Dropsondes aboard the Global Hawk in Hurricanes Using the Three-Cornered Hat Method
Authors: Kren Andrew C. , Anthes Richard A.
Published: December 2020

This study estimates the random error variances and standard deviations (STDs) for four datasets: Global Hawk (GH) dropsondes (DROP), the High-Altitude Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit Sounding Radiometer (HAMSR) aboard the GH, the fifth European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis (ERA5), and the Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) Model, using the three-cornered hat (3CH) method. These estimates are made during the 2016 Sensing Hazards with Operational Unmanned Technology (SHOUT) season in the environment of four tropical cyclones from August to October. For temperature and specific and relative humidity, the ERA5, HWRF, and DROP datasets all have similar magnitudes of errors, with ERA5 having the smallest. The error STDs of temperature and specific humidity are less than 0.8 K and 1.0 g kg−1 over most of the troposphere, while relative humidity error STDs increase from less than 5% near the surface to between 10% and 20% in the upper troposphere. The HAMSR bias-corrected data have larger errors, with estimated error STDs of temperature and specific humidity in the lower troposphere between 1.5 and 2.0 K and between 1.5 and 2.5 g kg−1. HAMSR’s relative humidity error STD increases from approximately 10% in the lower troposphere to 30% in the upper troposphere. The 3CH method error estimates are generally consistent with prior independent estimates of errors and uncertainties for the HAMSR and dropsonde datasets, although they are somewhat larger, likely due to the inclusion of representativeness errors (differences associated with different spatial and temporal scales represented by the data).
Phase Codes for Mitigating Ambiguities in Range and Velocity
Authors: Zrnić Dusan , Schvartzman David
Published: December 2020

We review cubic phase codes for mitigating ambiguities in range and velocity before introducing two specific codes. The two have periodicities of 5 and 7 samples for both the transmitted and the modulation code sequences. The short periods are suitable for generating codes of arbitrary length starting with about 15. We abbreviate the two codes with L5 and L7 and describe generation of the codes starting with kernels (i.e., minimum length sequences that repeat to generate the codes of desired lengths). The L5 modulation code produces 5 spectral replicas of the coded signal and the L7 produces 7. We apply the L7 code to a sinusoid and reveal spectra of the modulated signals from several ambiguous range intervals. Through simulation, we show application to weatherlike signals and construct examples whereby two weather signals and ground clutter are overlaid. Using theory, we define the operating region of the codes in the signal parameter space. The region covers a wide range of overlaid returned powers and spectrum widths; it is obtained from simulations involving the L codes and the SZ(8/64) code. The technique is effective in distinguishing the returns from two trip regions separated by no more than L − 2 ambiguous range intervals and reconstructing the corresponding spectral moments. The L5 and L7 codes protect from trip returns up to the fifth and seventh, making them suitable for short-wavelength (3 and 5 cm) radars as their PRTs must be relatively short to accommodate the expected spread of velocities in storms.
Meckel’s Diverticulum: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Survey in Adults Comparing Diverticulectomy and Small Bowel Resection
Authors: Brungardt Joseph G. , Cummiskey Brian R. , Schropp Kurt P.
Published: December 2020

Background

Meckel’s diverticulum is a congenital abnormality often associated with the pediatric population. When seen in the adult population, management is controversial. This study sought to determine demographic and outcome differences between diverticulectomy and small bowel resection in adults diagnosed with Meckel’s diverticulum.

Methods

An analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement database (2015-2018) was performed, capturing patients with a postoperative diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum. Inclusion criteria included diverticulectomy or small bowel resection, and exclusion criteria included other major procedures such as colectomy or concomitant diverticulectomy and a small bowel resection. Demographics and outcomes were analyzed between those receiving diverticulectomy or resection.

Results

506 patients undergoing surgical treatment of Meckel’s diverticulum were captured. The majority of these patients were white (79.05%), male (68.77%), and averaged 46 years old. The 2 populations were homogenous, with no significant differences in demographics or comorbidities between populations. Mean operative time was shorter in the diverticulectomy group than the resection group (68.92 ± 35.89 vs. 89.33 ± 40.16 minutes, P < .0001). There were no deaths at 30 days. Length of stay, readmission rate, wound infection, and discharge destination were similar among both groups.

Discussion

Our analysis of a national database reveals no difference in outcomes between patients receiving a diverticulectomy or resection for Meckel’s diverticulum. Operating time may be slightly increased for resection. However, decision to excise the diverticulum vs. the segment of small bowel should be individualized to each patient, their pathology, and clinical picture.
Prescribing Habits of Providers and Risk Factors for Nonadherence to Opioid Prescribing Guidelines
Authors: Ivanics Tommy , Nasser Hassan , Kandagatla Pridvi , Leonard-Murali Shravan , Jones Adam , Abouljoud Marwan , Gupta Arielle Hodari , Woodward Ann
Published: December 2020

Background

The Michigan Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network introduced guidelines in October 2017 to combat opioid overprescription following various surgical procedures. We sought to evaluate changes in opioid prescribing at our academic center and identify factors associated with nonadherence to recently implemented opioid prescribing guidelines.

Methods

This retrospective review analyzed opioid prescribing data for appendectomy, cholecystectomy, and hernia repair from January 2015 through September 2017 (pre-guidelines group) and November 2017 through December 2018 (post-guidelines group). October 2017 data were excluded to allow for guideline implementation. Opioid prescribing data were recorded as total morphine equivalents (TMEs).

Results

Of 1493 cases (903 pre-vs. 590 post-guidelines), the mean TME prescribed significantly decreased post-guidelines (231.9 ± 108.6 vs. 112.7 ± 73.9 mg; P < .01). More providers prescribed within recommended limits post-guidelines (2.8% vs. 44.8%; P < .01). On multivariable analysis, independent risk factors for guideline nonadherence were the American Society of Anesthesiologists class > 2 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]:1.65, 95% confidence interval[CI] 1.09-2.49; P = .02), general surgery vs. acute care surgery service (AOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.15-3.10; P = .01), oxycodone vs. hydrocodone (AOR:1.90, 95% CI:1.06-3.41; P = .03), and nonphysician provider vs. resident prescriber (AOR:2.10, 95% CI:1.14-3.11; P < .01).

Conclusions

Opioid prescribing significantly reduced after the adoption of opioid prescribing guidelines at our institution. Numerous factors associated with provider guideline nonadherence may identify actionable targets to minimize opioid overprescribing further.
Single Center Experience With Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Parker Brandon M. , Menaker Jay , Berry Cherisse D. , Tesoreiero Ronald B. , O’Connor James V. , Stein Deborah M. , Scalea Thomas M.
Published: December 2020

Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) use in patients following traumatic injury continues to increase. Some consider traumatic brain injury (TBI) as an absolute contraindication for VV-ECMO because of the concern for systemic anticoagulation (A/C) worsening intracranial injury. We evaluated outcomes and complications in patients with TBI treated with VV-ECMO.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed TBI patients ≥ 18 years of age treated with VV-ECMO. The primary outcome was survival to discharge. Secondary outcomes included progression of intracranial hemorrhage, bleeding complications, and episodes of oxygenator thrombosis requiring exchange. Medians and interquartile ranges were reported where appropriate.

Results

13 TBI patients received VV-ECMO support during the study period. The median age was 28 years (Interquartile range (IQR) 25-37.5) and 85% were men. Median admission Glasgow coma scale was 5 (IQR 3-13.5). Median injury severity score (ISS) was 48 (IQR 33.5-66). Median pre-ECMO PaO2:FiO2 ratio was 58 (IQR 47-74.5). Five (38.4%) patients survived to discharge. Six patients (46%) received systemic A/C while on ECMO. No patient had worsening of intracranial hemorrhage on computed tomography imaging. There were two bleeding complications in patients on A/C, neither was related to TBI. Four patients required an oxygenator change; 2 in patients on A/C.

Conclusion

VV-ECMO appears safe with TBI. We have demonstrated that A/C can be withheld without increased complications. Traumatic brain injury should not be considered an absolute contraindication to the use of VV-ECMO for severe respiratory failure and should be decided on a case by case basis. Additional research is needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
Congenital Absence of the Portal Vein
Authors: Beal Eliza W. , Foley Kirstin , Washburn Ken , Tsung Allan
Published: December 2020

A 59-year-old woman presented with abdominal bloating, elevated alkaline phosphatase and transaminases, and computed tomography abdomen/pelvis demonstrating large right-sided hepatic masses. A percutaneous fine needle aspiration demonstrated hepatocellular neoplasm concerning for hepatocellular carcinoma. Preoperative imaging demonstrated possible porto-caval shunt. She underwent uneventful right hepatic lobectomy with confirmation of porto-systemic shunt. Congenital porto-systemic shunt, or Abernethy malformation, is rare and is associated with congenital cardiac and gastrointestinal abnormalities. Additionally, congenital porto-systemic shunt is associated with increased risk of hepatic neoplasms including hepatocellular carcinoma. Recommended surveillance for these patients is not well defined.
Can Radiologic Tumor Size Following Neoadjuvant Therapy Reliably Guide Tissue Resection in Breast Conserving Surgery in Patients with Invasive Breast Cancer?
Authors: Walcott-Sapp Sarah , Srour Marissa K. , Lee Minna , Luu Michael , Amersi Farin , Giuliano Armando , Chung Alice
Published: December 2020

Optimum tissue resection volume for patients with invasive breast cancer undergoing breast conserving surgery following neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) is not known. We compared positive margin and in-breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) between 2 groups that were created based on radiologic tumor size (RTS (cm3)) at diagnosis, RTS post-NAT, and volume of tissue resected (VTL): Pre-NAT group, patients with VTL closer to RTS at diagnosis, and post-NAT group, patients with VTL closer to post-NAT RTS. 82 patients with 84 breast cancers treated with NAT between 2007 and 2017 who had pre- and post-NAT imaging were identified from a prospectively maintained database. RTS at diagnosis, RTS post-NAT, and VTL were determined. Clinical and treatment characteristics, IBTR, and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared between pre-NAT (n = 51) and post-NAT (n = 33) groups. Compared to post-NAT patients, pre-NAT patients had smaller RTS at presentation (9.2 vs. 33.5 cm3, P < .001) and post-NAT (1.2 vs. 8.2 cm3, P = .024). At median follow-up of 4 years, there were no differences between groups in pathologic tumor size, positive margin rate, adjuvant therapy, IBTR, or DFS. Resection volumes that matched RTS on post-NAT imaging were not associated with increased positive margins or IBTR. It may be appropriate to use post-NAT imaging to guide lumpectomy volume.
Computerized cognitive behavioural therapy for gender minority adolescents: Analysis of the real-world implementation of SPARX in New Zealand
Authors: Lucassen Mathijs FG , Stasiak Karolina , Fleming Theresa , Frampton Christopher , Perry Yael , Shepherd Matthew , Merry Sally N
Published: December 2020

Objective:

SPARX is a form of computerized cognitive behavioural therapy in serious game format funded via the Ministry of Health to be freely available in New Zealand. At registration users identify themselves as male, female, transgender or intersex. We aimed to establish whether adolescent transgender users of SPARX, compared to adolescent male and female users, were more likely to have high mental health needs at baseline and were more likely to complete SPARX. We also sought to determine changes in transgender adolescents’ depressive symptoms after using SPARX.

Methods:

Quantitative analysis of 5 years of usage data from the nation-wide delivery of SPARX in New Zealand.

Results:

There were 9079 adolescents who completed the registration process and used SPARX, 2.3% ( n = 207) identified as transgender. The majority of transgender registrants (69.0%) completing a baseline Patient Health Questionnaire – modified for Adolescents were categorized as having high mental health needs, significantly more so than male and female registrants ( p < 0.001). Over half of all SPARX registrants completed the first module of the program, with subsequently lower proportions of transgender registrants completing Module 4 ( p = 0.005) and Module 7 (i.e. the last module, p = 0.048). Of those registrants completing a baseline and subsequent Patient Health Questionnaire – modified for Adolescents, both male ( n = 247) and female ( n = 630) registrants, on average, had improvements in their scores (2.68 and 3.15, respectively), whereas transgender registrants ( n = 14) did not (−0.43) ( p = 0.048).

Conclusion:

This is the first study describing the impact of an e-therapy on transgender young people. The analysis of data from this free self-help intervention suggests that transgender adolescents seeking treatment for depression have particularly high mental health needs, and an existing well tested tool may be less effective for them than it is for others. Taken together the results appear to suggest targeted efforts may be required for transgender adolescents.
What makes them tick: Challenging the impersonal ethos in International Relations
Authors: Heimann Gadi , Kampf Zohar
Published: December 2020

International Relations scholars and practitioners commonly agree that relationships in world politics are managed impersonally. Personal connections between agents of states are perceived as having only little impact on foreign policy of states. The current article challenges this impersonal ethos, suggesting that personal relationships play an important role in conducting, and thus understanding, interstate relations. Interviews conducted with 21 senior Israeli officials concerning mundane professional practices reveal three elements that are essential for successful statecraft: acknowledging the power of interpersonal relations; substantive knowledge of counterparts; and the excellent communicative competencies needed to realize the potential of personal connections. We argue that statespersons’ behavior can be located on an impersonal-interpersonal continuum. Furthermore, we suggest explanations for deviations from the impersonal ethos and discuss the role of interpersonal practices in managing interstate relations. At the very least, the personal aspect should be taken into consideration when examining foreign policy. However, personal relations may have a highly significant impact on interstate interactions, thus requiring a revision of the current paradigm in IR, which marginalizes the personal aspect.
Impact of Trade Openness and Climate Change on Food Productivity in Nigeria
Authors: Shuaibu Mohammed
Published: December 2020

Liberal trade regimes could help improve food productivity if environmental concerns such as adverse weather conditions that affect agriculture are addressed. This issue has not received adequate empirical scrutiny as linear models dominate extant literature. In this article, we check whether accounting for trade and climate change asymmetries is important in explaining food productivity in Nigeria. Using a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, the existence of asymmetry was established in the long run but not in the short run. The long-run estimates show that high rainfall variability increases food production, but the reverse is the case in the short run where the decomposed shocks exert a negative impact. An increase in the volume of trade boosts food production in the long run, whereas the contemporaneous estimates reveal that lower trade flows enhance food productivity. The findings have important implications for food policy formulation and implementation.

JEL Codes: F18, Q18, Q56
Transitioning from active duty to military retirement: Challenges impacting diabetes self-management
Authors: Fisher Carla L , Ledford Christy JW , Wollney Easton , Crawford Paul F
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

Military retirement happens early in the lifespan presenting a unique transition that challenges chronic illness. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that military retirees experience as they transition from active duty to military retirement that they perceive as inhibiting their ability to manage type 2 diabetes (T2DM) or pre-diabetes (preDM) and/or which increase their disease risk.

Methods:

Twenty veterans diagnosed with T2DM or preDM participated in semi-structured, face-to-face interviews in a private setting at their primary care clinic. Transcripts were analysed using constant comparative method. Participants were aged 44 to 63 ( M = 56), with 15 diagnosed with T2DM and 5 as preDM. They had been retired from the military 6 to 22 years ( M = 14 years).

Results:

Participants linked five inter-related challenging factors to their T2DM/preDM diagnosis (when diagnosed post-retirement) and/or to their inability to manage their disease: (1) diet/eating habits, (2) physical activity, (3) weight fluctuation, (4) health care interactions and (5) systematic barriers. Military retirees’ experiences were embedded within a ‘cultural shift’. They struggled to maintain self-management behaviours once they were no longer on active duty and had more independence as civilians.

Discussion:

Results provide support for diabetes education during military retirement. Military retirees need help maintaining healthy lifestyle behaviours beyond the structured, health-focused military culture. They could also benefit from patient–provider communication skills training in navigating systematic barriers and attaining the support needed to manage their disease.