bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Artificial Intelligence-Based General Anesthetics and Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: Wang Xiaokun , Huang Shan
Published: April 2021

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) refers to the complications of the central nervous system before and after surgery in patients without mental disorders. Many studies have shown that surgical anesthesia may cause POCD, especially in elderly patients. This article aims to study the relationship between artificial intelligence-based general anesthetics and postoperative cognitive dysfunction. This article first describes and classifies artificial intelligence, introduces its realization method, machine learning algorithms, and briefly introduces the basic principles of regression and classification methods in machine learning; then, the principles and techniques of general anesthetics are proposed. The pathogenesis of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is explained in detail. Finally, the effect of anesthetics on postoperative cognitive dysfunction is obtained from both inhaled anesthetics and intravenous anesthetics. The impact on postoperative cognitive function is explained. The experimental results in this article show that there is no statistically significant difference in the two groups of patients’ age, gender ratio, body mass index, education level, preoperative comorbidities, and other general indicators. Through the use of EEG bispectral index monitors to monitor the depth of anesthesia and postoperative cognitive dysfunction, first, there was no obvious relationship between the occurrence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction at 1, 5, 10, and 50 days and discharge time. The comprehensive monitoring group can reduce the clinical dose of preventive medication and cis-atracurium and shorten the patient’s recovery time, extubation time, and recovery time. In addition, it can also reduce the increase of serum protein S100β in elderly patients and reduce the incidence of early postoperative cognitive dysfunction.
The Relationship between “Shofuku-Fujin” (Abnormality of Abdominal Examination in Japanese Kampo Medicine) and Body Composition by Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ishige Tatsuya , Odaguchi Hiroshi , Hanawa Toshihiko
Published: April 2021

Shofuku-fujin is an abnormal physical finding in Kampo medical practice. It is assumed to be often found in the elderly and contributes to the selection of Kampo formulas used mainly in elderly patients. However, few objective reports about Shofuku-fujin have been published to date. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical features of patients showing Shofuku-fujin by using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and to objectively assess the potential clinical implications of these findings. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 1330 patients who visited our institute to undergo a medical examination by using data collected from September 2010 to March 2016. We extracted data on patient sex and age, anthropometric data, and body composition data that could potentially affect the appearance of Shofuku-fujin. Logistic regression analyses were performed by sex to analyze the various factors related to the appearance of Shofuku-fujin. Of the 1330 patients, the data of 386 men and 942 women were used for analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that Shofuku-fujin was associated with older age (odds ratio (OR), 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05–1.10;

p

 < 0.001), lower skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.43–0.85;

p

 = 0.004), and lower body fat percentage (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.85–0.93;

p

 < 0.001) in men and older age (OR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.04–1.07,

p

 < 0.001) and lower body fat percentage (OR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.92–0.96;

p

 < 0.001) in women. On the basis of these results, the factors causing the appearance of Shofuku-fujin were aging, decreased muscle mass, and decreased body fat in men and aging and decreased body fat in women. Our results demonstrated that it may be better to consider a loss of muscle mass when examining a male patient with Shofuku-fujin.
Privacy-Preserving Multipoint Traffic Flow Estimation for Road Networks
Authors: Bentafat Elmahdi , Rathore M. Mazhar , Bakiras Spiridon
Published: April 2021

Intelligent transportation systems necessitate a fine-grained and accurate estimation of vehicular traffic flows across critical paths of the underlying road network. However, such statistics should be collected in a manner that does not disclose the trajectories of individual users. To this end, we introduce a privacy-preserving protocol that leverages roadside units (RSUs) to communicate with the passing vehicles, in order to construct encrypted Bloom filters stemming from random vehicle IDs that are chosen secretly by the individual vehicles. Each Bloom filter represents the set of vehicle IDs that contacted the RSU but may also be used to estimate the traffic flow between any number of RSUs. More precisely, we designed a probabilistic model that approximates multipoint traffic flows by estimating the number of common vehicles among a given set of RSUs. Through extensive simulation experiments, we demonstrate that our protocol is very accurate—with a minor deviation from the real traffic flow—and show that it reduces the estimation error by a large factor, when compared to the current state-of-the-art approaches. Furthermore, our implementation of the underlying cryptographic primitives illustrates the feasibility, practicality, and scalability of the system.
Understanding Disabilities among the Elderly in China: Important Factors, Current Situation, and Future Perspective
Authors: Tian Peng , Wang Gengyuan , Liu Yaping , Zhou Juan
Published: April 2021

The physiological functions of various organs and tissues of the elderly begin to decline with the growth of age, and the body is more and more affected by various degenerative diseases, resulting in the decline of the overall sports ability. As a result, some elderly people even become unable to live independently. This paper describes the current situation of the elderly in China by using the data of the elderly over 60 years of age in the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey. In addition, Activities of Daily Living scale was used to determine the degree of disability, and Stata 13.0 software was used for multiple regression analysis, focusing on the analysis of the factors affecting the disability of the elderly. According to the research results, the paper puts forward the future trend from multiple perspectives and puts forward specific countermeasures and suggestions to alleviate the disability of the elderly or reduce its adverse effects. This will help China become an aging friendly country.
Evaluation of Cattle for Naturally Colonized Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Requires Combinatorial Strategies
Authors: Kudva Indira T. , Oosthuysen Eben R. , Wheeler Bryan , Loest Clint A.
Published: April 2021

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) serogroups O157, O26, O103, O111, O121, O145, and O45 are designated as food adulterants by the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Food Safety and Inspection Service. Cattle are the primary reservoir of these human pathogens. In this study, 59 Angus crossbred heifers were tested specifically for these seven STEC serogroups using a combination of standard culture, serological, PCR, and cell cytotoxicity methods to determine if comparable results would be obtained. At the time of fecal sampling, the animals were approximately 2 years old and weighed 1000–1200 lbs. The diet comprised of 37% ground alfalfa hay, 25% ground Sudan hay, and 38% ground corn supplemented with trace minerals and rumensin with ad libitum access to water. Non-O157 STEC were isolated from 25% (15/59) of the animals tested using a combination of EC broth, CHROMagar STECTM, and Rainbow Agar O157. Interestingly, the O157 serogroup was not isolated from any of the animals. Non-O157 STEC isolates were confirmed to be one of the six adulterant serogroups by serology and/or colony PCR in 10/15 animals with the predominant viable, serogroup being O103. PCR using DNA extracted from feces verified most of the colony PCR results but also identified additional virulence and O-antigen genes from samples with no correlating culture results. Shiga toxin- (Stx-) related cytopathic effects on Vero cells with fecal extracts from 55/59 animals could only be associated with the Stx gene profiles obtained by fecal DNA PCR and not culture results. The differences between culture versus fecal DNA PCR and cytotoxicity assay results suggest that the latter two assays reflect the presence of nonviable STEC or infection with STEC not belonging to the seven adulterant serogroups. This study further supports the use of combinatorial culture, serology, and PCR methods to isolate viable STEC that pose a greater food safety threat.
Competitive Analysis of Operation Mode of Enterprise Value Chain under the Background of Green Economy
Authors: Fan Peng , Wang Yifeng , Dong Yuwei
Published: April 2021

In order to improve the competitive advantage of the supply chain, occupy more market shares, and obtain greater benefits, many companies participate in the competition within or between supply chains. This article mainly introduces the game analysis of enterprise value chain operation mode under the background of green economy. This article mainly introduces the competition of business value chain operation mode under the background of green economy and determines its best-selling price and sales volume. This article first outlines the background of the green economy. Secondly, a competition model between multiple retailers is constructed, and the optimal strategy under the two modes of Cournot competition and Stackelberg competition is studied. Finally, the impact of the green economy coefficient on the maximum sales is analyzed. The experimental results of this article show that the average growth rate of total income after the transformation of the business value chain operation mode of the business under the background of the green economy is 9.03%, which also shows that the green economic policy has ultimate significance and is obviously innovative.
Occurrence and Antibiogram of Escherichia coli O157 : H7 in Raw Beef and Hygienic Practices in Abattoir and Retailer Shops in Ambo Town, Ethiopia
Authors: Tadese Nega Desalegn , Gebremedhi Endrias Zewdu , Moges Feleke , Borana Bizunesh Mideksa , Marami Lencho Megersa , Sarba Edilu Jorga , Abebe Hirut , Kelbesa Kebede Abdisa , Atalel Dagmawit , Tessema Belay
Published: April 2021

Foodborne infections are widespread and growing public health problems in the world. Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157 : H7 is one of the most significant foodborne pathogens. This study was conducted to assess the occurrence and antibiogram of E. coli O157 : H7 from raw beef as well as hygienic and sanitary practices of meat handling in abattoir and retailer shops. Systematic random sampling technique and census methods were used to collect samples from abattoir and retailer shops, respectively. All tryptone soya broth preenriched carcass samples were subcultured onto MacConkey agar. Then, the bacterium confirmed as Escherichia coli using biochemical tests was streaked onto Sorbitol-MacConkey agar and incubated at 37°C for 24 hrs. Escherichia coli O157 : H7 was confirmed by latex agglutination kit. In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility test of Escherichia coli O157 : H7 isolates was done against 13 antimicrobials. Hygiene and sanitation data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and observational checklist. Pearson Chi-square and Fisher’s exact two-tailed tests were performed and differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05. Out of 197 meat samples, 23.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 17.6–29.9%) and 9.1% (95% CI: 5.5–14.1%) were contaminated with Escherichia coli and Escherichia coli O157 : H7, respectively. There was a significant variation in the occurrence of Escherichia coli O157 : H7 between retailer shops (19.1%) and abattoir (7.2%) (P = 0.03). The study revealed that the municipal abattoir and retailer shops in Ambo town did not adhere to the required sanitation and hygienic standards. All Escherichia coli O157 : H7 isolates were susceptible to norfloxacin, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, chloramphenicol, and ceftazidime. However, all isolates were resistant to amoxicillin. Multidrug resistance was widespread and was found in 66.3% of Escherichia coli O157 : H7 isolates. The occurrence of Escherichia coli O157 : H7 was high. Therefore, fulfilling national and international meat safety requirements, training and monitoring of meat handlers, and rational use of antimicrobials are recommended
Mdm2 and MdmX: Partners in p53 Destruction
Authors: Manfredi James J.
Published: April 2021

Mdm2 and MdmX are two closely related proteins that have been well-characterized as negative regulators of the tumor suppressor p53. Their interplay and especially respective roles in ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of p53 have lacked clarity. Yang and colleagues now demonstrate an obligate role for MdmX in recruitment of the E2 ubiquitin ligase UbcH5c to the Mdm2-MdmX hetero-oligomer. The use of elegant genetically engineered mouse models ensures the biological relevance of their findings that have important implications for targeted therapies involving these key players in the p53 pathway.

See related article by Yang et al., Cancer Res 2021;81:898–909.
HIF1α or HIF2α: Enhancing CD8+ T-cell Fitness for Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Chen Jin
Published: April 2021

Adoptive T-cell therapy requires the transferred lymphocytes to adapt to the hypoxic tumor microenvironment. In this issue, Veliça and colleagues found that modified HIF2α expression in CD8+ T cells increases antitumor efficacy.

See article by Veliça et al., p. 401
High BMI, Aggressive Tumours and Long Console Time Are Independent Predictive Factors for Symptomatic Lymphocele Formation after Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy and Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection
Authors: Goßler Christopher , May Matthias , Breyer Johannes , Stojanoski Gjoko , Weikert Steffen , Lenart Sebastian , Ponholzer Anton , Dreissig Christina , Burger Maximilian , Gilfrich Christian , Bründl Johannes , Rosenhammer Bernd
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Lymphocele (LC) formation is a common complication which may cause severe symptoms after robot-assisted radical prostatovesiculectomy (RARP) with concomitant pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). Compared to open radical prostatectomy, the amount of data on potential risk factors for LC formation is still limited. The aim of the present study was to identify risk factors for symptomatic LC formation (sLC) after RARP with PLND. Methods: We used the data of a prospective multicentre series of 232 RARP patients which were treated between March 2017 and December 2017. The primary endpoint was the presence of sLC within 90 days. Asymptomatic LC (aLC) formation was also recorded. We evaluated clinical, perioperative, and histopathological criteria and compared their distribution in patients with and without post-operative sLC. Uni- and multivariable logistic regression analyses (MVAs) were performed to identify potential predictors for LC formation. Regarding the influence of patients’ BMI, 2 models were calculated: BMI continuously (model 1) and BMI dichotomized with cut-off 30 kg/m2 (WHO definition, model 2). Results: Post-operative sLC was present in 21 patients (9.1%), while aLC was detected in 49 patients (21.1%) 90 days after RARP with PLND. Patients with sLC showed higher median baseline PSA levels (9.8 vs. 8.1 ng/mL), higher prevalence of obesity (BMI >30; 42.9 vs. 19.9%), and longer median console time (180 vs. 165 min) compared to patients without sLC. On MVA higher BMI {model 1: OR 1.145 (confidence interval [CI] 1.025–1.278); model 2: OR 2.761 (1.045–7.296)}, longer console time (model 1: OR 1.013 [1.005–1.021]; model 2: OR 1.013 [1.005–1.020]) and an ISUP grade ≥3 (model 1: OR 3.247 [1.182–8.917]; model 2: OR 2.791 [1.050–7.423]) were identified as independent predictors for sLC development. Conclusion: Patients with aggressive tumours and higher BMI should be informed about a potentially increased risk for sLC formation. In case of a long console time, a close and regular follow-up should be considered to check for LC development.
Sphenoid Sinus: Pneumatization and Septation Patterns in a Hispanic Population
Authors: Treviño-Gonzalez José Luis , Maldonado-Chapa Félix , Becerra-Jimenez Joel Adrián , Soto-Galindo Germán Armando , Morales-del Angel Josefina Alejandra
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus (SS) varies widely among different ethnic groups. Information regarding the prevalence and significance of SS variants among Hispanic groups is limited. This study aims to describe and analyze pneumatization and septation patterns of the SS in a Hispanic population. Methods: A total of 160 paranasal sinus computed tomographies were reviewed by a head and neck-specialized radiologist and 2 otolaryngologists. Results: The postsellar and sellar types were the most frequent patterns of pneumatization observed, with a prevalence of 52.5 and 40%, respectively. Accessory septations were present in 59.4% of the patients. Septa were inserting over the internal carotid artery (ICA) in 43.8% and over the optic nerve in 17.5% of the population. No significant association (p > 0.05) was observed when comparing the different accessory septation patterns among the types of the SS. The frequency of septa inserting on the ICA was significantly higher in postsellar types (p < 0.001). Pneumatization of the anterior clinoid process, pterygoid processes, and greater wing was present in 20, 17.5, and 45.9% of the sinuses, respectively. Onodi cells were encountered in 40% of the sinuses. There were no significant differences in any of the pneumatization and septation variables when compared by gender and age (p > 0.05). Discussion/Conclusion: Differences regarding anatomical variants and septations of the SS were observed in our study when compared with findings reported in other ethnic groups. Preoperative assessment of the anatomical variants of the SS in Mexican patients is imperative to select the most optimal surgical approach and prevent iatrogenic injuries to related neurovascular structures.
Primary Retroperitoneal Filariasis Presenting with Acute Abdomen
Authors: Nached Maram Z. , Al-Ozaibi Labib S.
Published: April 2021

Lymphatic filariasis is a common tropical parasitic infection caused by the Nematoda Filarioidae family. Filariasis predominantly affects the lymphoreticular system, leading to lymphedema, elephantiasis, hydrocele, and chyluria. However, its presentation as retroperitoneal cyst is very rare with a reported incidence rate of 1/105,000. We present a rare case of a previously healthy 26-year-old male presenting with abdominal and groin pain associated with chills and vomiting. Computerized tomography scan showed extensive cystic retroperitoneal lesion and ultrasound demonstrated “Dancing Filarial Sign.” Retroperitoneal filariasis can present without peripheral filarial signs. Hence, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain of a patient who is originally from an endemic area.
Downregulation of ZNF395 Drives Progression of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma through Enhancement of Growth Potential
Authors: Kurogi Shusaku , Hijiya Naoki , Hidano Shinya , Sato Seiya , Uchida Tomohisa , Tsukamoto Yoshiyuki , Nakada Chisato , Yada Kazuhiro , Hirashita Teijiro , Inomata Masafumi , Murakami Kazunari , Takahashi Naohiko , Kobayashi Takashi , Moriyama Masatsugu
Published: April 2021

Background: Progression of pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) to invasive carcinoma is a critical factor impacting the prognosis of patients with pancreatic tumors. However, the molecular mechanisms involved are not fully understood. We have reported that the process frequently involves loss of chromosome 8p, causing downregulation of DUSP4, thus conferring invasive ability on cancer cells. Here, we focus on ZNF395, whose expression was also found to be decreased by 8p loss and was predicted to be a growth suppressor gene. Methods: Pancreatic cancer cell lines inducibly expressing ZNF395 were established to assess the functional significance of ZNF395 in pancreatic carcinogenesis. Immunohistochemistry was also performed to analyze the expression levels of ZNF395 in pancreatic cancer tissues. Results: Induction of ZNF395 in pancreatic cancer cells resulted in marked activation of JNK and suppression of their proliferation through a delay in cell cycle progression. Immunohistochemistry revealed that ZNF395 was expressed ubiquitously in both normal pancreatic ducts and PanINs but was significantly reduced in invasive cancers, especially those showing poor differentiation. Conclusion: ZNF395 acts as a novel tumor suppressor gene. Its downregulation caused by 8p loss in intraepithelial cells accelerates their proliferation through dysregulation of the cell cycle, leading to progression to invasive cancer.
Incidence Estimates of Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke in Preterm- and Term-Born Infants: A National Capture-Recapture Calculation Corrected Surveillance Study
Authors: Sorg Anna-Lisa , von Kries Rüdiger , Klemme Mathias , Gerstl Lucia , Felderhoff-Müser Ursula , Dzietko Mark
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Data on valid incidence estimates of perinatal arterial ischemic stroke (PAIS) are scarce. This analysis aims to determine incidence of PAIS in term- and preterm-born infants and to investigate clinical differences related to prematurity. Methods: This surveillance study (2015–2017) in all German paediatric hospital estimated incidences for MRI-confirmed PAIS in term and preterm infants. To correct for under-reporting, we performed capture-recapture-calculations (CRC) in the most populous federal state and extrapolated nationwide. Differences in clinical presentation in term- and preterm-born infants were assessed. Results: 126 term- and 19 preterm-born infants with PAIS were reported. CRC corrected incidence of PAIS was 22 (95% confidence interval [CI] 17, 27) per 100,000 live births. Stratified by prematurity, the incidence was 32 (95% CI 15, 49) per 100,000 in preterm-born infants and 21 (95% CI 16, 26) per 100,000 term-born infants (significant difference p = 0.001). In symptomatic cases only (n = 120 term born, n = 12 preterm born), incidences did not differ. Risk factor patterns were similar, but number of risk factors in preterm babies was elevated (mean 3.8 vs. 2.9; p = 0.01) and median age at diagnosis was increased (5 vs. 3 days; p = 0.04). Clinical seizures were observed in 88% (106/120) of symptomatic term infants compared to 33% (4/12) in preterm-born infants (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: PAIS incidence rates in Germany, extrapolated from estimates for completeness of reporting in the largest federal state, were within the range of other population-based studies. As a novel finding, we detected symptomatic PAIS in preterm-born infants to be as common as in term-born infants although their symptoms were often unspecific.
Renin Cells, the Kidney, and Hypertension
Authors: Sequeira-Lopez Maria Luisa S. , Gomez R. Ariel
Published: April 2021

Renin cells are essential for survival perfected throughout evolution to ensure normal development and defend the organism against a variety of homeostatic threats. During embryonic and early postnatal life, they are progenitors that participate in the morphogenesis of the renal arterial tree. In adult life, they are capable of regenerating injured glomeruli, control blood pressure, fluid-electrolyte balance, tissue perfusion, and in turn, the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells. Throughout life, renin cell descendants retain the plasticity or memory to regain the renin phenotype when homeostasis is threatened. To perform all of these functions and maintain well-being, renin cells must regulate their identity and fate. Here, we review the major mechanisms that control the differentiation and fate of renin cells, the chromatin events that control the memory of the renin phenotype, and the major pathways that determine their plasticity. We also examine how chronic stimulation of renin cells alters their fate leading to the development of a severe and concentric hypertrophy of the intrarenal arteries and arterioles. Lastly, we provide examples of additional changes in renin cell fate that contribute to equally severe kidney disorders.
Obesity, Adipose Tissue and Vascular Dysfunction
Authors: Koenen Mascha , Hill Michael A. , Cohen Paul , Sowers James R.
Published: April 2021

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Overweight and obesity are strongly associated with comorbidities such as hypertension and insulin resistance, which collectively contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases and resultant morbidity and mortality. Forty-two percent of adults in the United States are obese, and a total of 1.9 billion adults worldwide are overweight or obese. These alarming numbers, which continue to climb, represent a major health and economic burden. Adipose tissue is a highly dynamic organ that can be classified based on the cellular composition of different depots and their distinct anatomical localization. Massive expansion and remodeling of adipose tissue during obesity differentially affects specific adipose tissue depots and significantly contributes to vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases. Visceral adipose tissue accumulation results in increased immune cell infiltration and secretion of vasoconstrictor mediators, whereas expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue is less harmful. Therefore, fat distribution more than overall body weight is a key determinant of the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Thermogenic brown and beige adipose tissue, in contrast to white adipose tissue, is associated with beneficial effects on the vasculature. The relationship between the type of adipose tissue and its influence on vascular function becomes particularly evident in the context of the heterogenous phenotype of perivascular adipose tissue that is strongly location dependent. In this review, we address the abnormal remodeling of specific adipose tissue depots during obesity and how this critically contributes to the development of hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, and vascular stiffness. We also discuss the local and systemic roles of adipose tissue derived secreted factors and increased systemic inflammation during obesity and highlight their detrimental impact on cardiovascular health.
Artificial Intelligence in Hypertension
Authors: Padmanabhan Sandosh , Tran Tran Quoc Bao , Dominiczak Anna F.
Published: April 2021

Hypertension remains the largest modifiable cause of mortality worldwide despite the availability of effective medications and sustained research efforts over the past 100 years. Hypertension requires transformative solutions that can help reduce the global burden of the disease. Artificial intelligence and machine learning, which have made a substantial impact on our everyday lives over the last decade may be the route to this transformation. However, artificial intelligence in health care is still in its nascent stages and realizing its potential requires numerous challenges to be overcome. In this review, we provide a clinician-centric perspective on artificial intelligence and machine learning as applied to medicine and hypertension. We focus on the main roadblocks impeding implementation of this technology in clinical care and describe efforts driving potential solutions. At the juncture, there is a critical requirement for clinical and scientific expertise to work in tandem with algorithmic innovation followed by rigorous validation and scrutiny to realize the promise of artificial intelligence-enabled health care for hypertension and other chronic diseases.
Extracellular Vesicles From Epicardial Fat Facilitate Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Shaihov-Teper Olga , Ram Eilon , Ballan Nimer , Brzezinski Rafael Y. , Naftali-Shani Nili , Masoud Rula , Ziv Tamar , Lewis Nir , Schary Yeshai , Levin-Kotler La-Paz , Volvovitch David , Zuroff Elchanan M. , Amunts Sergei , Regev-Rudzki Neta , Sternik Leonid , Raanani Ehud , Gepstein Lior , Leor Jonathan
Published: April 2021

Background:

The role of epicardial fat (eFat)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF) has never been studied. We tested the hypothesis that eFat-EVs transmit proinflammatory, profibrotic, and proarrhythmic molecules that induce atrial myopathy and fibrillation.

Methods:

We collected eFat specimens from patients with (n=32) and without AF (n=30) during elective heart surgery. eFat samples were grown as organ cultures, and the culture medium was collected every 2 days. We then isolated and purified eFat-EVs from the culture medium, and analyzed the EV number, size, morphology, specific markers, encapsulated cytokines, proteome, and microRNAs. Next, we evaluated the biological effects of unpurified and purified EVs on atrial mesenchymal stromal cells and endothelial cells in vitro. To establish a causal association between eFat-EVs and vulnerability to AF, we modeled AF in vitro using induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes.

Results:

Microscopic examination revealed excessive inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis in fresh and cultured eFat tissues. Cultured explants from patients with AF secreted more EVs and harbored greater amounts of proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines, and profibrotic microRNA, as well, than those without AF. The proteomic analysis confirmed the distinctive profile of purified eFat-EVs from patients with AF. In vitro, purified and unpurified eFat-EVs from patients with AF had a greater effect on proliferation and migration of human mesenchymal stromal cells and endothelial cells, compared with eFat-EVs from patients without AF. Last, whereas eFat-EVs from patients with and without AF shortened the action potential duration of induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes, only eFat-EVs from patients with AF induced sustained reentry (rotor) in induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes.

Conclusions:

We show, for the first time, a distinctive proinflammatory, profibrotic, and proarrhythmic signature of eFat-EVs from patients with AF. Our findings uncover another pathway by which eFat promotes the development of atrial myopathy and fibrillation.
The Redemption of the Human Being in Islamic Tradition: The Sufi Perspective
Authors: Salamah-Qudsi Arin
Published: April 2021

This article examines the representation of human beings’ redemption in Islamic tradition with a special focus on the Sufi perspective. This is done using Islamic scriptures and semantics. There is no homogenous Sufi perspective on the question of human redemption. However, it is still worthwhile to look for references to human redemption in Sufi discussions of the high state of unification. The human being plays an essential role in this experience, while their responsibility for others’ spiritual redemption becomes greater after returning to the normal state of being. Beside the individualistic experience of redemption, both Islam in general and taṣawwuf in particular hint at a form of collective deliverance from depravity.
Incidental Proceedings before the International Court of Justice: The Fine Line between “Litigation Strategy” and “Abuse of Process”
Authors: Lemey Marie
Published: April 2021

Scholars and State counsels have often pointed out the fact that incidental proceedings could be abused, especially when they serve as dilatory mechanisms. While the International Court of Justice has never followed up on such claims, the recent interest in the concept of abuse of process may bring this issue back into focus. The purpose of the present article is to examine whether the notion of abuse of process could actually be applied in such cases, at a time when many types of conduct seem to be loosely labelled as abusive. It highlights the difficulties to reach such a conclusion as well as the necessity for clarification from the Court on what may constitute an abuse of process.
States’ Mouthpieces or Independent Practitioners? The Role of Counsel before the ICJ from the Perspective of the Legal Value of their Oral Pleadings
Authors: Longobardo Marco
Published: April 2021

This article explores the role of counsel before the International Court of Justice, taking into account their tasks under the Statute of the Court and the legal value of their pleadings in international law. Pleadings of counsel constitute State practice for the formation of customary international law and treaty interpretation, and they are attributable to the litigating State under the law on State responsibility. Accordingly, in principle, counsel present the views of the litigating State, which in practice approves in advance the pleadings. This consideration is relevant in discussing the role of counsel assisting States in politically sensitive cases, where there is no necessary correspondence between the views of the States and those of their counsel. Especially when less powerful States are parties to the relevant disputes, the availability of competent counsel in politically sensitive cases should not be discouraged since it advances the legitimacy of the international judicial function.
In vitro inhibitory potentials of Thai formulated polyherbal tea against oxidative stress promoters
Authors: Adekoya Ademola Ezekiel , Chusri Sasitorn , Beng Eugene Ong Boon , Idowu Anthony Temitope
Published: April 2021

Ya-Tri-Kasornmas and Ya-Tri-Phigut are polyherbal tea that have been listed as essential medicines in the National List of Essential Medicines, Thailand. They are widely consumed among the Thai populace. Thus, aqueous extracts of Ya-Tri-Karsornmas and Ya-Tri-Phigut polyherbal formulations were subjected to screening against oxidative stress promoters such as reactive oxygen species using in vitro antioxidant models. In addition, their capacities to lower lipid peroxidation were measured. Yield of the extract from Ya-Tri-Phigut polyherbal formulation was 7.22% (w/w), while that from Ya-Tri-Kasornmas was 5.50% (w/w) (P < 0.05). The study revealed that the aqueous extract of Ya-Tri-Phigut showed better antioxidant capacities to inhibit reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation activities than Ya-Tri-Karsornmas (P <0 .05). Thus, Ya-Tri-Phigut polyherbal tea may potentially serve as a rich nutraceutical agent to combat oxidative stress and health related diseases.
Type specimens in the molluscan collection of the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, Florida, USA
Authors: LEAL JOSÉ H.
Published: April 2021

This article lists and comments on the primary and secondary types represented in the collection of the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum (BMSM), on Sanibel, Florida, USA. The collection includes 464 type specimens, of which 15 are holotypes, representing 149 taxa, of which 145 are species and four subspecies. The BMSM collection is fully catalogued and posted online via the Museum’s website, in addition to iDigBio and GBIF. The publication of this annotated list intends to improve on the accessibility and promote this important group of name-bearing specimens, which includes, among other cases, types originating from orphaned collections and material poorly documented in the original descriptions. Eighty-two types were selected for illustration, and the photos of all BMSM types are available as part of the BMSM online collection catalog.
Effects of Roll Vortices on the Evolution of Hurricane Harvey during Landfall
Authors: Li Xin , Pu Zhaoxia , Gao Zhiqiu
Published: April 2021

Horizontal boundary layer roll vortices are a series of large-scale turbulent eddies that prevail in a hurricane’s boundary layer. In this paper, a one-way nested sub-kilometer-scale large-eddy simulation (LES) based on the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model was used to examine the impact of roll vortices on the evolution of Hurricane Harvey around its landfall from 0000 UTC 25 August to 1800 UTC 27 August 2017. The simulation results imply that the turbulence in the LES can be attributed mainly to roll vortices. With the representation of roll vortices, the LES provided a better simulation of hurricane wind vertical structure and precipitation. In contrast, the mesoscale simulation with the YSU PBL scheme overestimated the precipitation for the hurricane over the ocean. Further analysis indicates that the roll vortices introduced a positive vertical flux and thinner inflow layer, whereas a negative flux maintained the maximum tangential wind at around 400 m above ground. During hurricane landfall, the weak negative flux maintained the higher wind in the LES. The overestimated low-level vertical flux in the mesoscale simulation with the YSU scheme led to overestimated hurricane intensity over the ocean and accelerated the decay of the hurricane during landfall. Rainfall analysis reveals that the roll vortices led to a weak updraft and insufficient water vapor supply in the LES. For the simulation with the YSU scheme, the strong updraft combined with surplus water vapor eventually led to unrealistic heavy rainfall for the hurricane over the ocean.
Proceedings of the Sleep and Epilepsy Workshop: Section 1 Decreasing Seizures: Improving Sleep and Seizures, Themes for Future Research
Authors: Quigg Mark , Bazil Carl W. , Boly Melanie , Louis Erik St , Liu Judy , Ptacek Louis , Maganti Rama , Kalume Frank , Gluckman Bruce J. , Pathmanathan Jay , Pavlova Milena K. , Buchanan Gordon F.
Published: April 2021

Epileptic seizures, sleep, and circadian timing share bilateral interactions, but concerted work to characterize these interactions and to leverage them to the advantage of patients with epilepsy remains in beginning stages. To further the field, a multidisciplinary group of sleep physicians, epileptologists, circadian timing experts, and others met to outline the state of the art, gaps of knowledge, and suggest ways forward in clinical, translational, and basic research. A multidisciplinary panel of experts discussed these interactions, centered on whether improvements in sleep or circadian rhythms improve decrease seizure frequency. In addition, education about sleep was lacking in among patients, their families, and physicians, and that focus on education was an extremely important “low hanging fruit” to harvest. Improvements in monitoring technology, experimental designs sensitive to the rigor required to dissect sleep versus circadian influences, and clinical trials in seizure reduction with sleep improvements were appropriate.
Policy Burden of State-Owned Enterprises and Efficiency of Credit Resource Allocation: Evidence from China
Authors: Ye Songqin , Zeng Jiangjiarui , Liao Feimei , Huang Jin
Published: April 2021

This article selects A-share state-owned listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2007 to 2018 as samples and uses OLS together with intermediary effect tests to study the impact of state-owned enterprise’ (SOEs) policy burdens on credit resources and their allocation efficiency. The research finds that the heavier the policy burden SOEs assume, the more credit resources they obtained. However, they are also more likely to make inefficient investments after obtaining the credit resources, and these credit resources have a negative effect on the value of the SOEs which bear the policy burden. These negative impacts are more significant in SOEs with low degree of marketization in the region, low level of government control, and low information transparency. The path analysis elaborates that the policy burden of SOEs reduces the efficiency of resource allocation by increasing management agency costs and reducing financing constraints. The conclusions enrich the understanding of the consequences of policy burdens under the background of Chinese system, further broaden the analytical framework of the efficiency of credit resource allocation, and unveil the importance of relevant government departments that can optimize the efficiency of credit resource allocation.
Stimulating Customer Citizenship Behavior With Service Climate: The Mediating Role of Customer Psychological Empowerment
Authors: Qiu Hailian , Wang Ning , Li Minglong
Published: April 2021

This study expanded the research on service climate to the perspective of customers in the hospitality context and explicated the influence mechanism of service climate on customer citizenship behavior. Service climate traditionally perceived by employees has been well studied, but only limited studies focused on the customer perspective service climate. Based on the existing literature, customer perceived service climate in the hospitality industry was operationalized and its influence on customer citizenship behavior was proposed. After the measurement purification with exploratory factor analysis based on the pilot data using IBM SPSS 20, data collection was conducted in the hotels in Wuhan, China. A total of 432 valid questionnaires were collected and the data were analyzed for hypotheses testing, using Mplus 7.4. The research results indicate that each factor of customer service climate has a positive impact on customer citizenship behavior, with the strength of effects being different. Customer psychological empowerment plays a partial mediating role between some factors of service climate and customer citizenship behavior. The findings provide implications for service enterprises in terms of service climate design and customer citizenship behavior facilitation.
Integration of Business Processes With Activities and Information: Evidence From Brazil
Authors: Correia Ana Maria Magalhães , Rocha Clarissa Figueredo , Duclós Luiz Carlos , Veiga Claudimar Pereira da
Published: April 2021

This study proposes a management model by business processes for science parks based on the premises and concept of enterprise architecture (EA). The model offers integrating business processes with activities and information that can be generated by adopting customized information systems to meet the science parks’ needs. The proposed model’s main contributions included EA as a means for shaping and enabling reconfiguration through descriptions of the structures of business processes and information systems that connect these structures, forming business and information architecture frameworks. In association with these frameworks, the managers need to define a coherent set of patterns, policies, procedures, and principles that sustain the business processes integrated with the information systems. As a result of the study, this model can help management execute and control activities related to business processes in the parks through interaction and alignment with the information system intended to facilitate the execution. The model will also lead to greater agility and efficiency in these business processes, considering their specific nature and the relationship with the parks’ actors. As a practical contribution, knowledge of these processes aids the management of the parks in their drive for a competitive advantage by maintaining and developing their management models.
Does a Competent Member Always Obtain Good Results? The Social Identity Perspective
Authors: Shin Soo Young , Kim Cheol Young
Published: April 2021

This study aims to examine whether competent members produce good performance from the social identity theory perspective. Specifically, it investigates the moderating effect of perceived team performance and group cohesiveness in the competency–performance relationship. Data from 427 employees with multi-source at a manufacturing company were used for a hierarchical regression analysis. The results show that competency has a positive effect on the individual performance, and competent individuals with a highly perceived team performance tend to demonstrate better performance. Unlike the results of the perceived team performance, group cohesiveness has a negative interactive effect with competency regarding performance.
PTSD Perceptions in U.S. Military Members and Their Families: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Thomson Jennifer L.
Published: April 2021

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic and debilitating disorder characterized by hypervigilance and recurrent, intrusive memories of the traumatic event. Estimates for lifetime prevalence of PTSD diagnoses for United States military personnel vary widely from 10% to more than 30%. The current study aimed to investigate the attitudes and beliefs regarding PTSD and its diagnosis and treatment within U.S. military service members and their families. An online survey was administered to current and former members of the U.S. military and members of their immediate families. The results revealed low levels of mental health stigma and positive attitudes toward treatment for PTSD. However, survey respondents also communicated a belief that the current health care system does not adequately meet the mental health needs of the U.S. military. A clear understanding of the specific attitudes and thought processes surrounding PTSD and its diagnosis may aid mental health professionals in effectively communicating with those in need of their services.
What Makes Oncologists Feel Compassion Fatigue? Qualitative Findings From Korea
Authors: Yi Jaehee , Kim Min Ah , Choi Kwonho
Published: April 2021

This study explored oncologists’ compassion fatigue in their practice with cancer patients and families. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted. A purposeful sample of nine oncologists was recruited from three hospitals in Korea. We used a hybrid of the theory-driven deductive approach and data-driven inductive approach based on the transactional model of physician compassion. Oncologists shared contexts from which their compassion fatigue stems based on four categories: physician factors, clinical factors, patient and family factors, and environmental and institutional factors. Given the nature of their job, oncologists should receive interventions that improve resilience and reduce compassion fatigue. We suggest interventions that promote appropriate levels of compassion and reduce interfering barriers.
Functional Polymorphism of MMP9 and BDNF as Potential Biomarker of Auditory Neuroplasticity in Prelingual Deafness Treatment With Cochlear Implantation—A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Matusiak Monika , Oziębło Dominika , Obrycka Anita , Ołdak Monika , Kaczmarek Leszek , Skarżyński Piotr , Skarżyński Henryk
Published: April 2021

Genetic biomarkers of neuroplasticity in deaf children treated with cochlear implantation (CI) might facilitate their clinical management, especially giving them better chances of developing proficient spoken language. We investigated whether carrying certain variants of the genes encoding matrix metalloproteinase MMP9 and neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor ( BDNF), involved in synaptic plasticity, can be taken as prognostic markers of how well auditory skills might be acquired. Association analysis of functional MMP9 rs3918242 and BDNF rs6265 variants and the child’s auditory development measured at CI activation and 1, 5, 9, 14, and 24 months post CI activation with LittlEARS Questionnaire (LEAQ) was conducted in a group of 100 children diagnosed with DFNB1-related deafness, unilaterally implanted before the age of 2 years. Statistical analysis in the subgroup implanted after 1 year of life ( n = 53) showed significant association between MMP9 rs3918242 and LEAQ scores at 1 month ( p = .01), at 5 months ( p = .01), at 9 months ( p = .01), and at 24 months ( p = .01) after CI activation. No significant associations in the subgroup implanted before 1 year of life were observed. No significant associations between the BDNF rs6265 and LEAQ score were found. Multiple regression analysis ( R2 = .73) in the subgroup implanted after 1 year of life revealed that MMP9 rs3918242 was a significant predictor of treatment outcome. In conclusion, C/C rs3918242 MMP9 predisposes their deaf carriers to better CI outcomes, especially when implanted after the first birthday, than carriers of C/T rs3918242 MMP9.