bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
French recommendations for the management of Takayasu’s arteritis
Authors: Saadoun David , Bura-Riviere Alessandra , Comarmond Chloé , Lambert Marc , Redheuil Alban , Mirault Tristan ,   Collaborators, Achouh Paul , Aeschlimann Florence , Alsac Jean-Marc , Arnaud Laurent , Benhamou Ygal , Bienvenu Boris , Bodiguel Eric , Boyer Olivia , Chiche Laurent , Constans Joel , Darbon Raphael , Guibaudet Sandrine , Lamarche Philippe , Ferrand Séverin , Espitia Olivier , Franchi Stephanie , Gaudric Julien , Giordana Pascal , Hachulla Eric , Hatron Pierre-Yves , Hot Arnaud , Kone-Paut Isabelle , Maillard Hélène , Mekinian Arsène , Quartier Pierre , Quemeneur Thomas , Soussan Mickael , Sapoval Marc , Schmidt Jean , Soulat Gilles
Published: July 2021

The aim of this National Diagnostic and Care Protocol (PNDS) is to explain to the professionals involved the current optimal diagnosis and therapeutic management and care approach for a patient with Takayasu’s arteritis. Its purpose is to optimize and harmonize the management and follow-up of this rare disease throughout the country. It also identifies pharmaceutical specialties used in an indication not provided for in the Marketing Authorization, as well as the specialties, products or services necessary for the care of patients but not usually paid for or reimbursed.
Decreased SFRP5 correlated with excessive metabolic inflammation in polycystic ovary syndrome could be reversed by metformin: implication of its role in dysregulated metabolism
Authors: Zhang Yi , Ran Yuxin , Kong Lingna , Geng Lihong , Huang Hua , Zhang Hongying , Hu Jun , Qi Hongbo , Chen Ying
Published: July 2021

Background

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder of heterogeneous nature. Secreted frizzled-related protein (SFRP) 5 is an anti-inflammatory adipokine implicated in metabolic homeostasis. We aimed to confirm the correlation between SFRP5, metabolic inflammation and PCOS, investigate the predictive value of SFRP5 for PCOS and the involvement of SFRP5 in metformin treated PCOS.

Methods

This retrospective case–control study included 140 PCOS and 33 control women. Sixty seven PCOS women were included for detecting serum SFRP5 level and its correlation with metabolic inflammation. Predictive value of SFRP5 for PCOS was evaluated by logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses. Seventy three PCOS women complicated with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT)/insulin resistance (IR) were included for investigating the effects of metformin (37 with metformin vs. 36 without metformin) on SFRP5, pro-inflammatory cytokines, ovulation and pregnancy rate.

Results

Plasma SFRP5 levels were decreased in PCOS (odds ratio: 0.78, 95% confidence interval (CI):0.703–0.866,P < 0.001) independent of obesity. SFRP5 was negatively associated with IL-6, TNFα, FAI and HOMA-IR. The cut-off point of SFRP5 < 46.13 ng/ml was optimal to identify PCOS with a higher specificity of 96.87% and a relatively lower sensitivity compared to AMH. SFRP5 increased specificity of AMH for predicting PCOS, especially which with relatively decreased AMH (< 4.7 ng/ml). Metformin promoted SFRP5 and decreased leptin, IL-6 and TNFα secretion in PCOS women with metabolic abnormality in a time dependent manner and with improved ovulation rate and pregnancy rate.

Conclusion

Decreased SFRP5 was associated with metabolic inflammation in PCOS and has a potential role for the supplement of AMH in predicting PCOS. The reverse of serum SFRP5 by metformin indicated that SFRP5 participated in the improvment of follicular development by metformin. Further prospective investigations are needed to confirm these preliminary data.
A comparative study of single Theileria lestoquardi and mixed infections with Theileria ovis
Authors: Al-Hamidhi Salama , Elshafie Elshafie I. , Yaghfoori Saeed , Morrison W. Ivan , Johnson Eugene H. , Babiker Hamza A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Epidemiological surveys in Oman have revealed a high prevalence of the co-occurrence of the pathogenic Theileria lestoquardi and the non-pathogenic Theileria ovis among sheep in the Barka region, Oman. Our most recent data illustrated an interaction and reduced mortality risk in animals co-infected with T. lestoquardi and T. ovis, suggesting that the latter confers protection against pathogenicity of T. lestoquardi. The present study extends the above findings and examines disease outcomes; clinical markers, hematological parameters, and parasite density in mixed and single T. lestoquardi infections.

Methods

A total of 390 blood samples were collected from 16 sheep pens located in Barka, Oman between July and November 2019. Theileria spp. were detected and quantified using qPCR assay targeting 18S rRNA, and the extent of genetic diversity was estimated by a panel of T. lestoquardi specific micro- and mini-satellites. The association of some disease markers with the presence of Theileria spp. and genetic diversity was tested.

Results

Theileria spp. were detected in 75 (19.2%) sheep; of these 65 (86.7%) had mixed infections (T. lestoquardi plus T. ovis), 8 (10.6%) were infected with T. lestoquardi alone, and 2 (2.7%) with only T. ovis. Exotic breeds had a higher risk for Theileria spp. infection. The density (18S rRNA gene copies) of both parasites was higher in single infection against mixed infection, and there was a relatively lower density of T. lestoquardi in mixed infections. However, there was no difference in hematological indices between single T. lestoquardi and mixed infections. High genetic diversity was observed among T. lestoquardi in Barka, with no differences of T. lestoquardi in single and mixed infections. The extent of diversity seen in Barka was higher (He = 0.772) than that reported in Oman in 2019 (He = 0.582), with distinct T. lestoquardi genotypes.

Conclusion

The lower density of T. lestoquardi as mixed infection with T. ovis compared to single infection supports the hypothesis that T. ovis confers protection against lethal T. lestoquardi infection. However, there were no differences in disease correlations (clinical markers, hematological parameters, and density of parasites) or the extent of diversity of T. lestoquardi between the two types of infection. The presence of distinct T. lestoquardi genotypes in Barka, compared to that reported earlier in Oman, likely reflects movement of carrier animals and highlights the need for further analysis of the parasite populations to inform novel approaches for controlling malignant ovine theileriosis.

Graphical Abstract
Crinoid encrustation of holocystitid diploporitan echinoderms: strongly asymmetrical Silurian dendritic attachment structures with palaeobiological implications
Authors: Thomka James R. , Bantel Thomas E. , Brett Carlton E.
Published: July 2021

Articulated thecae of the holocystitid diploporitan echinodermHolocystites scutellatusfrom the middle Silurian (Wenlock: Sheinwoodian) Massie Formation of southeastern Indiana, USA, are encrusted by distinctive structures belonging to another echinoderm. A dendritic attachment structure consisting of multiple slender, branching radices, attributable to the camerate crinoidEucalyptocrinites, is present on one side of each of the diploporitan thecae. However, the development of radices is remarkably asymmetrical, with all radices—including one more than 25 mm in length—being present exclusively on one side of the attachment structure. This reflects initial settlement by the encrusting crinoids near the oral or marginal regions rather than the central portion of the diploporitan thecae, which were on their sides; this essentially prohibited further outward growth of radices toward the oral area or edges, but allowed radices oriented in the opposite direction to extend over nearly the entire length of the lateral surface of the theca. Although crinoid encrustation of holocystitid diploporitan thecae is moderately common in the Massie Formation, no previously described specimens display such pronounced asymmetry with respect to radice development. More importantly, these specimens convincingly illustrate the degree to whichEucalyptocrinitesattachment structure morphologies could be modified in response to local substrate variations; such skeletal modules were, indeed, highly dynamic, probably contributing to the success of taxa bearing such adaptable attachment structures.
Intelligent radar software defect classification approach based on the latent Dirichlet allocation topic model
Authors: Liu Xi , Yin Yongfeng , Li Haifeng , Chen Jiabin , Liu Chang , Wang Shengli , Yin Rui
Published: July 2021

Existing software intelligent defect classification approaches do not consider radar characters and prior statistics information. Thus, when applying these appaoraches into radar software testing and validation, the precision rate and recall rate of defect classification are poor and have effect on the reuse effectiveness of software defects. To solve this problem, a new intelligent defect classification approach based on the latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) topic model is proposed for radar software in this paper. The proposed approach includes the defect text segmentation algorithm based on the dictionary of radar domain, the modified LDA model combining radar software requirement, and the top acquisition and classification approach of radar software defect based on the modified LDA model. The proposed approach is applied on the typical radar software defects to validate the effectiveness and applicability. The application results illustrate that the prediction precison rate and recall rate of the poposed approach are improved up to 15 ~ 20% compared with the other defect classification approaches. Thus, the proposed approach can be applied in the segmentation and classification of radar software defects effectively to improve the identifying adequacy of the defects in radar software.
A case study of 2019-nCOV cases in Argentina with the real data based on daily cases from March 03, 2020 to March 29, 2021 using classical and fractional derivatives
Authors: Kumar Pushpendra , Erturk Vedat Suat , Murillo-Arcila Marina , Banerjee Ramashis , Manickam A.
Published: July 2021

In this study, our aim is to explore the dynamics of COVID-19 or 2019-nCOV in Argentina considering the parameter values based on the real data of this virus from March 03, 2020 to March 29, 2021 which is a data range of more than one complete year. We propose a Atangana–Baleanu type fractional-order model and simulate it by using predictor–corrector (P-C) method. First we introduce the biological nature of this virus in theoretical way and then formulate a mathematical model to define its dynamics. We use a well-known effective optimization scheme based on the renowned trust-region-reflective (TRR) method to perform the model calibration. We have plotted the real cases of COVID-19 and compared our integer-order model with the simulated data along with the calculation of basic reproductive number. Concerning fractional-order simulations, first we prove the existence and uniqueness of solution and then write the solution along with the stability of the given P-C method. A number of graphs at various fractional-order values are simulated to predict the future dynamics of the virus in Argentina which is the main contribution of this paper.
Investigation into the effect of data reduction in offloadable task for distributed IoT-fog-cloud computing
Authors: Nwogbaga Nweso Emmanuel , Latip Rohaya , Affendey Lilly Suriani , Rahiman Amir Rizaan Abdul
Published: July 2021

With the increasing level of IoT applications, computation offloading is now undoubtedly vital because of the IoT devices limitation of processing capability and energy. Computation offloading involves moving data from IoT devices to another processing layer with higher processing capability. However, the size of data offloaded is directly proportional to the delay incurred by the offloading. Therefore, introducing data reduction technique to reduce the offloadable data minimizes delay resulting from the offloading method. In this paper, two main strategies are proposed to address the enormous data volume that result to computation offloading delay. First, IoT Canonical Polyadic Decomposition for Deep Learning Algorithm is proposed. The main purpose of this strategy is to downsize the IoT offloadable data. In the study, the Kaggle-cat-and-dog dataset was used to evaluate the impact of the proposed data compression. The proposed method downsizes the data significantly and can reduce the delay due to network traffic. Secondly, Rank Accuracy Estimation Model is proposed for determining the Rank-1 value. The result of the proposed method proves that the proposed methods are better in terms of data compression compared to distributed deep learning layers. This method can be applied in smart city, vehicular networks, and telemedicine etc.
Delayed onset postoperative retropharyngeal hematoma after anterior cervical surgery with a sequela of tracheal stricture: a case report
Authors: Chang Dong-Gune , Park Jong-Beom , Kim Hong Jin , Park Soo-Bin
Published: July 2021

Background

Among the several complications associated with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), airway compromise is considered one of the serious life-threatening conditions and usually requires emergent treatment, including airway establishment and hematoma evacuation surgery. Postoperative retropharyngeal hematoma commonly occurred during the on immediate phase with airway compromise, but have a rarity on late onset of this complication. Enlightened by this existing fact, we report the first case of delayed onset postoperative retropharyngeal hematoma after anterior cervical surgery with a sequela of tracheal stricture.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old male underwent ACDF for disc herniation at C5–6 that had not responded to conservative treatment over 3 months. The symptoms significantly improved after surgery, and he was discharged on postoperative day 3. On the 7 days after ACDF, the patient complained of sudden-onset left-deviated neck swelling. The follow-up plain radiographs and neck-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans showed anterior and right lateral displacement of the airway including the trachea by a large retropharyngeal hematoma. We performed an emergent forceful endotracheal intubation that was maintained for 2 days until the patient underwent hematoma evacuation surgery. On the second day after hematoma evacuation surgery, the patient complained of hoarseness with a foul breath odor. Laryngoscopy showed tracheal ischemic mucosal damage that had been induced by forceful endotracheal intubation. Antibiotics and systemic corticosteroids were administered, and the symptoms improved. One month after hematoma evacuation surgery, he complained of dyspnea on exertion, and laryngoscopy showed tracheal stricture. The patient underwent bronchoscopic dilatation and is doing well without recurrence of symptoms.

Conclusions

Early surgery to remove the delayed onset retropharyngeal hematoma, rather than forceful endotracheal intubation followed by delayed surgery, might yield better results and avoid unexpected complications of tracheal stricture.
From gut microbiota to host appetite: gut microbiota-derived metabolites as key regulators
Authors: Han Hui , Yi Bao , Zhong Ruqing , Wang Mengyu , Zhang Shunfen , Ma Jie , Yin Yulong , Yin Jie , Chen Liang , Zhang Hongfu
Published: July 2021

Feelings of hunger and satiety are the key determinants for maintaining the life of humans and animals. Disturbed appetite control may disrupt the metabolic health of the host and cause various metabolic disorders. A variety of factors have been implicated in appetite control, including gut microbiota, which develop the intricate interactions to manipulate the metabolic requirements and hedonic feelings. Gut microbial metabolites and components act as appetite-related signaling molecules to regulate appetite-related hormone secretion and the immune system, or act directly on hypothalamic neurons. Herein, we summarize the effects of gut microbiota on host appetite and consider the potential molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, we propose that the manipulation of gut microbiota represents a clinical therapeutic potential for lessening the development and consequence of appetite-related disorders.
Growth and physiological impairments in Fe-starved alfalfa are associated with the downregulation of Fe and S transporters along with redox imbalance
Authors: Rahman Md Atikur , Ahmed Md Bulbul , Alotaibi Fahad , Alotaibi Khaled D. , Ziadi Noura , Lee Ki-Won , Kabir Ahmad Humayan
Published: July 2021

Background

Iron (Fe) is an essential plant nutrient. Its deficiency is a major constraint in crop production systems, affecting crop yield and quality. It is therefore important to elucidate the responses and adaptive mechanisms underlying Fe-deficiency symptoms in alfalfa.

Materials and methods

The experiment was carried out on 12-day-old alfalfa plants grown in hydroponics under Fe-sufficient and Fe-deficient conditions.

Results

The Fe-starved alfalfa showed decreased plant biomass, chlorophyll score, PSII efficiency, and photosynthesis performance index in young leaves under low Fe. Further, Fe shortage reduced the Fe, Zn, S and Ca concentration in root and shoot of alfalfa accompanied by the marked decrease of MsIRT1, MsZIP, MsSULTR1;1, MsSULTR1;2 and MsSULTR1;3 transcripts in root and shoot. It indicates that retardation caused by Fe-deficiency was also associated with the status of other elements, especially the reduced Fe and S may be coordinately attributed to the photosynthetic damages in Fe-deficient alfalfa. The ferric chelate reductase activity accompanied by the expression of MsFRO1 in roots showed no substantial changes, indicating the possible involvement of this Strategy I response in Fe-deficient alfalfa. However, the proton extrusion and expression of MsHAI1 were significantly induced following Fe-deficiency. In silico analysis further suggested their subcellular localization in the plasma membrane. Also, the interactome map suggested the partnership of MsFRO1 with plasma membrane H+-ATPase, transcription factor bHLH47, and nitrate reductase genes, while MsHAI1 partners include ferric reductase-like transmembrane component, plasma membrane ATPase, vacuolar-type H-pyrophosphatase, and general regulatory factor 2. In this study, SOD and APX enzymes showed a substantial increase in roots but unable to restore the oxidative damages in Fe-starved alfalfa.

Conclusion

These findings promote further studies for the improvement of Fe-starved alfalfa or legumes through breeding or transgenic approaches.

Graphic Abstract
SANTIA: a Matlab-based open-source toolbox for artifact detection and removal from extracellular neuronal signals
Authors: Fabietti Marcos , Mahmud Mufti , Lotfi Ahmad , Kaiser M. Shamim , Averna Alberto , Guggenmos David J. , Nudo Randolph J. , Chiappalone Michela , Chen Jianhui
Published: July 2021

Neuronal signals generally represent activation of the neuronal networks and give insights into brain functionalities. They are considered as fingerprints of actions and their processing across different structures of the brain. These recordings generate a large volume of data that are susceptible to noise and artifacts. Therefore, the review of these data to ensure high quality by automatically detecting and removing the artifacts is imperative. Toward this aim, this work proposes a custom-developed automatic artifact removal toolbox named, SANTIA (SigMate Advanced: a Novel Tool for Identification of Artifacts in Neuronal Signals). Developed in Matlab, SANTIA is an open-source toolbox that applies neural network-based machine learning techniques to label and train models to detect artifacts from the invasive neuronal signals known as local field potentials.
Gene expression analysis in NSAID-induced rat small intestinal disease model with the intervention of berberine by the liquid chip technology
Authors: Chao Guanqun , Wang Qianqian , Ye Fangxu , Zhang Shuo
Published: July 2021

Objective

Investigate the effect and mechanism of berberine on the small intestinal mucosa of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) related small intestinal injury.

Materials and methods

Twenty-four SD rats were randomly divided into control group, model group and intervention group. The model group and intervention group were treated with diclofenac (7.5 mg/kg·d, 2/d), a total of 4 days tube feeding, and the intervention group was treated with 50 mg/kg·d intragastric administration of berberine after 2 days. The control group was treated with 7.5 mg/kg·d, 2/d 0.9% saline tube feeding. Then we screened differential expression of colonic mucosal gene by the liquid chip technology.

Results

Compared with the control group, macroscopic and histology score of the model group increased significantly (P < 0.05), HTR4, HTR1a, F2RL3, CALCA, NPY, CRHR2, IL1b, P2RX3, TPH1, HMOX1, TRPV1, VIP, F2RL1, SLC6A4, TFF2, AQP8 content were significantly increased (P < 0.05), NOS1 content decreased significantly (P < 0.05); Compared with the model group, macroscopic and histology score of the intervention group improved significantly (P < 0.05), and HTR4, F2RL3, NPY, CRHR2, IL1b, VIP, AQP8 content were significantly lower (P < 0.05), NOS1 content increased significantly (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Berberine has a protective effect on NSAID-associated small intestinal injury, the mechanism may be that berberine decreases the expression of intestinal mucosa HTR4, F2RL3, NPY, CRHR2, IL1b, VIP, AQP8, and increases the expression of NOS1, that to reduce intestinal permeability and protect intestinal mucosal barrier.
Measuring health-related quality of life in patients with rare disease
Authors: Lenderking William R. , Anatchkova Milena , Pokrzywinski Robin , Skalicky Anne , Martin Mona L. , Gelhorn Heather
Published: July 2021

Background

There has been a growing emphasis on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as an important outcome in rare disease drug development, although its assessment may be useful outside the drug development context, including in clinical applications or natural history studies. Central to assessing quality of life in health research is utilizing outcome measures that capture symptoms and impacts of the disease and treatment that are important and relevant to patients. Identifying and implementing valid and reliable tools to measure HRQoL in rare diseases poses unique challenges that often require creative solutions.

Main body

In this commentary, we explore some of the challenges in HRQoL assessment in rare disease, propose solutions, and consider regulatory issues. Some of the solutions discussed entail the use of item banks, adapting existing measures from phenotypically similar disease contexts, use of multi-domain measurement indices, and adapting methods for assessing content validity of existing measures. Current regulatory considerations are discussed and resources outlined.

Conclusion

Quality of life may be the most important endpoint for patients with rare diseases, and the challenges of valid assessment require effort and innovative thinking specific to each context to improve measurement and clinical outcomes.
Axillary fibromatosis with radiological-pathological correlation: a case report and literature review
Authors: Sprenger Flávia , Kluppel Sofia Tokars , Vicente Filho Valmir , Staats Ana Carolina , Anselmi Junior Raul Alberto , Louveira Maria Helena
Published: July 2021

Background

The term fibromatosis refers to a spectrum of soft tissue tumors resulting from the unbridled proliferation of fibroblasts, with high infiltrative power. It is a rare neoplasm, with an incidence of about 3 cases per million. Most common sites include the abdominal wall and cavity, chest wall, scapular area, and the limbs, rarely affecting the axilla. Imaging plays a major role in surgical planning and clinical follow-up. Differential diagnosis with other soft tissue tumors may be arduous, but a correct evaluation is fundamental.

Case presentation

A 33-year-old case is reported for the evaluation of a palpable hardened and immobile left axillary nodule. The ultrasound reveals a solid, elongated, heterogeneous, poorly delimited, infiltrative lesion observed in the left axillary hollow, with no detectable flow in the color Doppler mode. At magnetic resonance imaging, the same elongated and expansive lesion was better defined, revealing its irregular contours, alternating areas of hypo- and hyperintense on T2, heterogeneous enhancement, and no signs of signal decay on in- and out-of-phase sequences. Due to its growth and local invasion potential, surgical excision was performed. The microscopic analysis showed long and uniform spindle cell fascicles, with clear cytoplasm and wavy nuclei, arranged in different directions, included in collagen stroma. Immunohistochemistry was positive for nuclear beta-catenin, confirming the diagnosis of fibromatosis.

Conclusion

Imaging methods reflect the heterogeneous nature of the lesion. This study demonstrates the importance of using a multidisciplinary approach in addition to imaging tests and histopathological study for better diagnosis and therapeutic planning. The high infiltrative power always must be reminded of, since it affects young patients and diagnosis delay can lead to mutilating surgeries.
Axillary lymph node status in BIRADS 4-5 female patients: can shear wave and strain ultrasound elastography help?
Authors: Elmesidy Dalia Salaheldin , Eissa Menna Allah Gaber Ahmed Mohamed , Hamed Soha Talaat , Youssef Omar Zakaria , Nada Omnia Mokhtar , Hashem Lamiaa Mohamed Bassam
Published: July 2021

Background

The status of axillary nodes is a determining factor of management and prognosis for patients having a recent diagnosis of breast cancer. Axillary nodes are usually evaluated by ultrasonography (US) and biopsy, if indicated. Ultrasound-guided sampling and intraoperative or sentinel nodal sampling are available options, however, are invasive and hold risks of potential complications, calling for reliable, non-invasive axillary imaging. In the current prospective study, we assessed the performance of shear wave (SWE) and strain (SE) ultrasound elastography regarding preoperative axillary assessment. Sixty axillary nodes from 60 patients (age 28–65 years, mean 49.88 ± 7.61 SD) were included, all scoring BIRADS 4–5 on sonomammography.

Results

For US, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy were 100%, 66.67%, 84.78%, 100%, and 88.33%, respectively. Cortical thickness and vascularity were the most sensitive. For qualitative SWE, indices were 76.92%, 80.95%, 88.24%, 65.38% and 78.33%, respectively. Calculated cut-off for Emax was 59.3 and for Eratio was 4.56, giving statistical indices of 76.9%, 90.5%, 93.75%, 67.86%, and 81.67% for Emax and 76.9%, 100%, 100%, 70% and 85% respectively for Eratio. Both Emax and Eratio were greater for malignant (Emax 81.77 ± 1.904, Eratio 8.95 ± 5.69) than for benign nodes (Emax 37.59 ± 33.37, Eratio 2.5 ± 1.37) (Pvalues < 0.001). For qualitative SE, sensitivity and specificity were 92.31% and 57.14%, while PPV, NPV, and accuracy were 80% each (Pvalues < 0.001). The calculated cut-off value for SR was 3.85, giving indices of 87.2%, 76.2%, 76.19%, 87.18% and 83.33% respectively.

Conclusion

Adding elastography evaluation to conventional US positively impacts the specificity and accuracy of the preoperative axillary nodal status assessment in patients having newly diagnosed breast cancer.
Profile and outcome of pediatric intussusception: a 5-year experience in a tertiary care center
Authors: Madan Aqeela J. , Haider Fayza , Alhindi Saeed
Published: July 2021

Background

Intussusception is the most frequent cause of bowel obstruction in infants and toddlers; idiopathic intussusception occurs predominantly under the age of 3 and is rare after the age of 6 years; the highest incidence occurs in infants between 4 and 9 months; the gold standard for treatment of intussusception is non-operative reduction. This research will tackle the problem of pediatric intussusception in our center which is the largest tertiary center in our region. The primary outcome is to study the profile of intussusception; the secondary outcome is to assess the success rate of pneumatic reduction in the center’s pediatric population as well as to study the seasonal variation if present.

Results

During the study period, eighty-six (N=86) cases were identified, from which 10 cases were recurrent intussusception. Seventy-six (N=76) cases were included from the study period. N=68 (89%) were less than 3 years of age, and only N=2 (3%) were above 6 years. Seasonal variation was not significant; N=69 (91%) patients had successful pneumatic reduction under fluoroscopy while thirteen patients N=13 (17%) needed operative intervention.

Conclusion

Ileocolic intussusception is one of the most common pediatric surgical emergencies that can be successfully managed non-operatively in our institute; 89% of the cases were below 3 years of age, and no seasonal variation was demonstrated. Operative intervention was required in 13 cases with the main reason being lead point. The fact that the pediatric surgeon performs the reduction might have contributed to a high success rate reaching 91% in our center. This study provides a valuable opportunity for future regional data comparisons and pooled data analyses.
Phony peach disease: past and present impact on the peach industry in the southeastern U.S.A
Authors: Johnson Kendall A. , Bock Clive H. , Brannen Phillip M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Phony peach disease (PPD) is caused by the plant pathogenic bacterium Xylella fastidiosa subsp. multiplex (Xfm). Historically, the disease has caused severe yield loss in Georgia and elsewhere in the southeastern United States, with millions of PPD trees being removed from peach orchards over the last century. The disease remains a production constraint, and management options are few. Limited research has been conducted on PPD since the 1980s, but the advent of new technologies offers the opportunity for new, foundational research to form a basis for informed management of PPD in the U.S. Furthermore, considering the global threat of Xylella to many plant species, preventing import of Xfm to other regions, particularly where peach is grown, should be considered an important phytosanitary endeavor.

Main topics

We review PPD, its history and impact on peach production, and the eradication efforts that were conducted for 42 years. Additionally, we review the current knowledge of the pathogen, Xfm, and how that knowledge relates to our understanding of the peach—Xylella pathosystem, including the epidemiology of the disease and consideration of the vectors. Methods used to detect the pathogen in peach are discussed, and ramifications of detection in relation to management and control of PPD are considered. Control options for PPD are limited. Our current knowledge of the pathogen diversity and disease epidemiology are described, and based on this, some potential areas for future research are also considered.

Conclusion

There is a lack of recent foundational research on PPD and the associated strain of Xfm. More research is needed to reduce the impact of this pathogen on peach production in the southeastern U.S., and, should it spread internationally, wherever peaches are grown.
A New Measure of Students’ Perceived Conflict between Evolution and Religion (PCoRE) Is a Stronger Predictor of Evolution Acceptance than Understanding or Religiosity
Authors: Barnes M. Elizabeth , Supriya K. , Zheng Yi , Roberts Julie A. , Brownell Sara E.
Published: July 2021

College biology students’ perceived conflict with their religions was found to be the strongest predictor of evolution acceptance compared with student religiosity, religious affiliation, and understanding of evolution. A new instrument to measure perceived conflict between religion and evolution (PCoRE) is provided for researchers.
Response to “Interpret with Caution: COPUS Instructional Styles May Not Differ in Terms of Practices That Support Student Learning,” by Melody McConnell, Jeffrey Boyer, Lisa M. Montplaisir, Jessie B. Arneson, Rachel L. S. Harding, Brian Farlow, and Erika G. Offerdahl
Authors: Wieman Carl
Published: July 2021

This letter expands on the cautions about the use of COPUS discussed in the article by McConnell and colleagues in the June 2021 issue of LSE.
Electric and magnetic dipole antennas of a directional resistivity logging-while-drilling tool for “look-around” boundary detection
Authors: Fan Jianbao , Zhang Wenxiu , Chen Wenxuan , Li Xinghan , Liang Pengfei
Published: July 2021

Directional resistivity logging-while-drilling tools play an important role in geosteering. In contrast to the widely used tool with magnetic dipole transmitters and receivers, tools are investigated with electric and magnetic dipoles as transmitters and/or receivers for “look-around” boundary detection. Measurement schemes are selected based on their look-around boundary detection abilities. Those measurement schemes are studied regarding the sensitivity and depths of boundary detection, the optimal transmitter-receiver distance and frequency, and the effects of a drill collar using the coefficient propagator method and the finite-difference method. Higher sensitivity to a boundary often implies a shallower depth of investigation. More specifically, the measurement schemes using an electric dipole transmitter and receiver are the least sensitive to the boundary; however, such schemes have the maximum depth of detection and the strongest signal strength. The schemes using electric and magnetic dipole transmitters and receivers have a moderate depth of detection and signal strength. The measurement schemes with a magnetic dipole transmitter and receiver have the highest sensitivity to the boundary and the weakest signal strength. The drill collar affects the response of all of the measurement schemes. However, this effect cannot be corrected with a simple coefficient for the schemes using an axial electric dipole transmitter, but it can be corrected for others. The optimal frequencies and optimal transmitter-receiver distances of those schemes have two types: the changing one that changes with the distance to boundaries and the fixed one that usually has the lowest frequency or the shortest transmitter-receiver distance. The characteristics of each measurement scheme will guide the tool designs and determine its role in the application and method of interpretation.
Comparison Between 5-Azacytidine Treatment and Allogeneic Stem-Cell Transplantation in Elderly Patients With Advanced MDS According to Donor Availability (VidazaAllo Study)
Authors: Kröger Nicolaus , Sockel Katja , Wolschke Christine , Bethge Wolfgang , Schlenk Richard F. , Wolf Dominik , Stadler Michael , Kobbe Guido , Wulf Gerald , Bug Gesine , Schäfer-Eckart Kerstin , Scheid Christof , Nolte Florian , Krönke Jan , Stelljes Matthias , Beelen Dietrich , Heinzelmann Marion , Haase Detlef , Buchner Hannes , Bleckert Gabriele , Giagounidis Aristoteles , Platzbecker Uwe
Published: July 2021

PURPOSE

In contrast to 5-azacytidine (5-aza), allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) represents a curative treatment strategy for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), but therapy-related mortality (TRM) limits its broader use in elderly patients with MDS. The present prospective multicenter study compared HSCT following 5-aza pretreatment with continuous 5-aza treatment in patients with higher-risk MDS age 55-70 years.

METHODS

One hundred ninety patients with a median age of 63 years were enrolled. Patients received 4-6 cycles of 5-aza followed by HLA-compatible HSCT after reduced-intensity conditioning or by continuous 5-aza if no donor was identified.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients did not fulfill inclusion criteria (n = 20), died (n = 2) withdrew informed consent (n = 5), or were excluded for an unknown reason (n = 1). 5-aza induction started in 162 patients, but only 108 (67%) were eligible for subsequent allocation to HSCT (n = 81) or continuation of 5-aza (n = 27) because of disease progression (n = 26), death (n = 12), or other reasons (n = 16). Seven percent died during 5-aza before treatment allocation. The cumulative incidence of TRM after HSCT at 1 year was 19%. The event-free survival and overall survival after 5-aza pretreatment and treatment allocation at 3 years were 34% (95% CI, 22 to 47) and 50% (95% CI, 39 to 61) after allograft and 0% and 32% (95% CI, 14 to 52) after continuous 5-aza treatment ( P < .0001 and P = .12), respectively. Fourteen patients progressing after continuous 5-aza received a salvage allograft from an alternative donor, and 43% were alive at last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

In older patients with MDS, reduced-intensity conditioning HSCT resulted in a significantly improved event-free survival in comparison with continuous 5-aza therapy. Bridging with 5-aza to HSCT before is associated with a considerable rate of dropouts because of progression, mortality, and adverse events.
Preparation and Characterization of Electrospun Polylactic Acid (PLA) Fiber Loaded with Birch Bark Triterpene Extract for Wound Dressing
Authors: Fan Tianyuan , Daniels Rolf
Published: July 2021

Drug-loaded electrospun fibers have attracted increasing attention as a promising wound dressing material due to their capability of preventing from infections and inflammation and maintaining an appropriate environment for wound healing. In this study, polylactic acid (PLA), which is widely used in wound management, was chosen as electrospinnable polymer. A triterpene extract (TE) from the outer bark of birch known for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and wound healing effects was chosen to produce TE-loaded PLA electrospun fibers for wound dressing. A binary solvent system of dichloromethane (DCM) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was employed, and the ratio of the solvents was optimized for preparing smooth and uniform fibers. The morphology of TE-loaded PLA electrospun fibers was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The entrapment of TE in PLA fibers was confirmed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to analyze the solid state of TE in PLA fibers. The release behavior of TE was assayed by a shaking flask method for a period of 96 h. The results revealed that TE-loaded electrospun PLA microfibers could be reliably prepared and are promising future candidates in wound therapy.
Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients With Magnetic Gastroesophageal Reflux Devices: A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Malan Shawn H. , Rehfeldt Kent H. , Alvord Jeremy M. , Smith Bradford B.
Published: July 2021

Magnetic gastroesophageal reflux devices are becoming a common treatment option for reflux refractory to medical therapy. These devices are inserted laparoscopically with successful outcomes; however, patients may still complain of dysphagia after implantation. Echocardiographers may be hesitant to perform transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in these patients as esophageal surgery and dysphagia represent relative contraindications to performing TEE. However, we present 2 cases where intraoperative TEE was performed in patients with reflux devices without complication or image degradation. The described cases, in addition to a review of the perioperative management of these devices, support the use of TEE in this patient population.
Effects of hyperlipidemia on trabecular and cortical structures of the mandible
Authors: Günaçar Dilara Nil , Yemenoğlu Hatice , Ustaoğlu Gülbahar , Arıöz Özkan
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

To evaluate the mandibular bone structure of patients with hyperlipidemia by fractal dimension (FD) analysis and panoramic radiomorphometric indices including mandibular cortical thickness measurement, panoramic mandibular index (PMI), mandibular cortical index (MCI) and to compare with the healthy group.

Methods:

In total, 60 panoramic radiographs were included, including panoramic radiographs of 30 individuals with hyperlipidemia and 30 individuals with systemically healthy. FD analysis in the mandibular condyle, angle of the mandible, the distal side of the second premolar and anterior to mental foramen, PMI, MCI, and mandibular cortical thickness measurements were evaluated on radiographs. Independent samples t-test was used for differences between healthy and hyperlipidemia groups with regard to age and PMI. Repeated measurement of variance with one within and one between factors in the comparison of four regions and two groups in terms of FD and cortical thickness measurements. Following this analysis, significant differences were detected by post-hoc Sidak test. Fisher-Freeman-Halton analysis was applied to determine the relationship between categorical variables.

Results:

FD values of the hyperlipidemic patients were found to be lower than the healthy group. Between the hyperlipidemic and healthy groups, there was a difference in the angle of the mandible FD values (p = 0.020). There were no differences in the cortical thickness measurements and PMI between the groups (p > 0.05). There was a difference in MCI values between the groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The trabecular structure of the angle of the mandible and the cortical bone structure of the mandible were found to be negatively affected by hyperlipidemia.
Interpreting airborne pandemics spreading using fractal kinetics’ principles
Authors: Macheras Panos , Tsekouras Athanasios A. , Chryssafidis Pavlos
Published: July 2021

Introduction 

The reaction between susceptible and infected subjects has been studied under the well-mixed hypothesis for almost a century. Here, we present a consistent analysis for a not well-mixed system using fractal kinetics’ principles. 

Methods 

We analyzed COVID-19 data to get insights on the disease spreading in absence/presence of preventive measures. We derived a three-parameter model and show that the “fractal” exponent h of time larger than unity can capture the impact of preventive measures affecting population mobility. 

Results 

The h=1 case, which is a power of time model, accurately describes the situation without such measures in line with a herd immunity policy. The pandemic spread in four model countries (France, Greece, Italy and Spain) for the first 10 months has gone through four stages: stages 1 and 3 with limited to no measures, stages 2 and 4 with varying lockdown conditions. For each stage and country two or three model parameters have been determined using appropriate fitting procedures. The fractal kinetics model was found to be more akin to real life. 

Conclusion 

Model predictions and their implications lead to the conclusion that the fractal kinetics model can be used as a prototype for the analysis of all contagious airborne pandemics.
Examining the causal association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D and caries in children and adults: a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach
Authors: Dodhia Serena A. , West Nicola X. , Thomas Steven J. , Timpson Nicholas J. , Johansson Ingegerd , Lif Holgerson Pernilla , Dudding Tom , Haworth Simon
Published: July 2021

Background: Prior observational studies have reported that higher levels of vitamin D are associated with decreased caries risk in children. However, these studies are prone to bias and confounding so do not provide causal inference. Genetic variants associated with a risk factor of interest can be used as proxies, in a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, to test for causal association with an outcome. The objective was to estimate the causal association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) (the commonly measured vitamin D metabolite in blood) and dental caries using a two-sample MR approach which estimates the causal effect of an exposure on an outcome.

Methods: A total of 79 genetic variants reliably associated with 25(OH)D were identified from genome-wide association studies and used as a proxy measure of 25(OH)D. The association of this proxy measure with three outcome measures was tested; specifically: caries in primary teeth (n=17,035, aged 3-12 years), caries in permanent teeth in childhood and adolescence (n=13,386, aged 6-18 years), and caries severity in adulthood proxied by decayed, missing and filled tooth surfaces (DMFS) counts (n=26,792, aged 18-93 years).

Results: The estimated causal effect of a one standard deviation increase in natural log-transformed 25(OH)D could be summarized as an odds ratio of 1.06 (95%CI: 0.81, 1.31; P=0.66) for caries in primary teeth and 1.00 (95%CI: 0.76, 1.23; P=0.97) for caries in permanent teeth in childhood and adolescence. In adults, the estimated casual effect of a one standard deviation increase in natural log-transformed 25(OH)D was 0.31 fewer affected tooth surfaces (95%CI: from 1.81 fewer DMFS to 1.19 more DMFS; P=0.68)

Conclusions: The MR-derived effect estimates for these three measures are small in magnitude with wide confidence intervals and do not provide evidence for a causal relationship between 25(OH)D and dental caries.
Decontamination of Victims in the Event of a Radiation Accident at the Stages of Provision Medical Care
Authors: Frolov G. , Salenko Yu. , Grachev M. , Galstyan I. , Klochkov V.
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To summarize and analyze the results of research and practical recommendations on the decontamination of victims in the event of radiation accidents, including taking into account the authors’ experience gained in the initial period of the Chernobyl accident (April – August 1986) and in other local radiation accidents (incidents), as well as during emergency exercises.

Results: The indications for carrying out decontamination and the technique of its implementation were considered, a comparative assessment of the effectiveness of skin decontamination agents was presented. Recommendations were formulated for determining the priority (urgency) of carrying out decontamination, depending on the level of external radioactive contamination of the victims. Criteria, rules and methods for carrying out decontamination were proposed for use in relation to the practice of medical and hygienic measures at the stages of medical evacuation (accident site, enterprise health center, enterprise sanitary inspection department, triage site, hospital admission department). The features of decontamination of victims with combined radiation injuries and contaminated wounds (burns) were considered, issues of ensuring the radiation safety of medical personnel who provide assistance to victims are touched upon.

Conclusion: Timely and correctly performed decontamination reduces the exposure of the skin, prevents the entry of radioactive substances into the body and the transfer (spread) of radioactive substances to the subsequent stages of medical evacuation. The main criteria for the urgency (priority) of carrying out decontamination are the levels of radioactive contamination of the skin, contamination nature (radionuclide composition, physicochemical form, etc.) and the presence of victim’s skin lesions (wounds, burns). Decontamination of victims with high levels of radioactive contamination should be considered as a part of the first and subsequent emergency health care and should be carried out as prescribed or with the direct participation of a healthcare professional. At the stages of medical evacuation, decontamination can be carried out if the victim’s condition is stabilized. In the case of a serious condition of the victim, the priority is evacuation to a hospital, while in the prehospital period, as a rule, only partial decontamination of skin areas with high levels of contamination can be carried out. The procedure and rules for decontamination, including the use of skin decontaminating agents, should be reflected in the action plans of the personnel of radiation hazardous enterprises and the plans for medical support of medical units of the FMBA of Russia.