bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arthroscopic Capsular Repair for Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Tears
Authors: Takagi Takehiko , Nakamura Toshiyasu , Fukuoka Masatoshi
Published: December 2020

Background The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) lesions are frequently implicated as a cause of ulnar wrist pain following impact and loading injuries. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical outcomes following TFCC lesion repair with the arthroscopic outside-in technique.

Description of Technique We inserted a 21-gauge needle with 4–0 nylon loop perpendicular to the injured triangular fibrocartilage (TFC). We held two 4–0 nylon loops with mosquito forceps, drew them once out of the joint through a 4 to 5 portal, and put both sides through each loop. After that, we pulled out the 21-gauge needles and performed outside-in sutures after making a small incision and tying directly over the capsule.

Patients and Methods Twenty-one wrists who underwent arthroscopic capsular repair were included. Arthroscopic findings were evaluated, and we used a distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) evaluation system to monitor relief of pain, forearm rotation range of motion, and DRUJ stability postoperatively.

Results Simple ulnar avulsion (Palmer 1B, Atzei Class 1) was recognized in ten wrists. A combination of the 1B tear with a horizontal TFC tear was noted in five wrists; and ulnar avulsion extending to the dorsal half of the TFC was identified in six wrists, including complete dorsal avulsion of the TFC from the capsule. There are significantly better results in the cases whose preoperative periods were 15 months or less.

Conclusion The outside-in TFC repair technique produced excellent clinical results for peripheral detachment of the TFC in cases without severe DRUJ instability and with a preoperative period less than 15 months.
Functional group defect design in polymeric carbon nitride for photocatalytic application
Authors: Wu Chongbei , Han Qing , Qu Liangti
Published: December 2020

Defects are conventionally considered as the active sites in heptazine-based polymer melon (also known as graphitic carbon nitride, g-C3N4) for photocatalysis and are rationally incorporated for improving the intrinsic photocatalytic ability. The rise of group functionalized g-C3N4 based on defect engineering has set off a new wave of research in recent years, especially in photocatalysis. In this review, the recent process in functional group defect strategies to design high-efficiency g-C3N4-based photocatalysts, including cyanamide/cyano moiety, urea group, oxygen-containing groups (—OH, —COOH), and aromatic motifs, has been strictly analyzed so as to inspire critical thinking about the efficient methodology for the rational design of polymeric photocatalysts. The applications of the group functionalized g-C3N4 in photocatalytic water splitting, CO2 reduction, H2 evolution, ammonia synthesis, H2O2 production, and disinfection are summarized. The current challenges and future promising applications of the group functionalized g-C3N4 materials for advanced catalysts are also discussed.
Shortfalls in extinction risk assessments for plants
Authors: Alfonzetti Matthew , Rivers Malin C. , Auld Tony D. , Le Breton Tom , Cooney Tim , Stuart Stephanie , Zimmer Heidi , Makinson Robert , Wilkins Katy , Delgado Eren , Dimitrova Nadya , Gallagher Rachael V.
Published: December 2020

Research on species recovery, reintroduction, and conservation disproportionally focusses on birds and mammals. Typically, less attention is given to hyper-diverse but ecologically important groups such as plants and invertebrates. In this study, we focussed on a continent with one of the world’s highest proportions of endemic plant species (Australia) comparing the number of extinction risk assessments relative to birds and mammals. Specifically, we generated a checklist of Australian endemic vascular plants and used three resources which differ in styles and scope to collate information on how many have an extinction risk assessment – the ThreatSearch database, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, and Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, (EPBC Act). Between 76 and 93% of endemic Australian plants examined lack an extinction risk assessment based on data from our three sources. We also compared the proportions of endemic plants assessed relative to birds and mammals. Of all endemic plant taxa examined, only 6.8% have been assessed under the EPBC Act, compared with 9.4% of birds and 28.9% of mammals. Similarly, only 8.8% of endemic plants have been assessed for the IUCN Red List, compared with 29.1% of birds and 61.1% of mammals, whereas all birds and mammals have been examined in National Action Plans. This represents a significant underestimation of the actual proportion of Australian endemic plants that are likely to satisfy extinction-risk criteria for listing as threatened. This shortfall in risk assessments for plants is a matter of international significance for conservation given Australia’s high rate of plant endemism. A change in policy and approach to assessing extinction risk is needed to ensure adequate assessment effort across different taxonomic groups.
Strategic tillage of a long-term, no-till soil has little impact on soil characteristics or crop growth over five years
Authors: Kirkegaard John , Kirkby Clive , Oates Albert , van der Rijt Vince , Poile Graeme , Conyers Mark
Published: December 2020

Strategic tillage describes the occasional use of tillage in an otherwise no-till system. The practice can provide a pragmatic solution to emerging agronomic issues in no-till systems but raises concerns about prolonged or irreversible soil damage. We investigated the impact of a single tillage event at a long-term no-till experiment under treatments with retained or annually autumn-burned crop residues. One half of each residue-treatment plot received a single pass of a rotary hoe (ST) 4 weeks before sowing in 2011, the first year of the experiment; the other half of each plot remained unchanged (NT). Soil physical, chemical and biological fertility in the surface layers (0–20 cm), as well as crop growth and yield were monitored for 5 years (2011–15). Following the ST treatment, soil bulk density and strength were initially reduced to the depth of cultivation (~15 cm) irrespective of residue treatment. Water-stable macroaggregates in the surface 0–5 cm were also reduced but recovered to pre-tillage levels within 1–2 years after ST treatment. Soil pH, total carbon (C), total nitrogen (N), and fine-fraction C and N were all initially stratified in the surface layer (0–5 cm) of the NT treatment but were redistributed more evenly throughout the 0–10 cm layer of the ST treatment and remained so throughout the 5-year period. With ST, there was an initial loss in total C stocks in the 0–10 cm layer of 2.2 t/ha, which recovered within 2 years; however, total C stocks remained lower in plots with stubble retained than with stubble burnt after 5 years. Soil Colwell P levels were not stratified and not influenced by tillage treatment, presumably because of the annual additions in the starter fertiliser at sowing. ST had no impact on crop establishment or grain yield in any year but increased the early biomass of wheat at Z30 compared with NT in the first 2 years. Annual stubble retention reduced the early growth of crops in all years, and yield of wheat in the first 3 years, consistent with long-term effects of retained stubble at the site, but there was no interaction between stubble retention and tillage treatments on soil conditions or crop growth. Crop yields of long-term, annually cultivated treatments were also similar to those of ST and NT treatments during the 5 years of the experiment. Overall, the minor short-term negative impacts on soil physical conditions, the persistent and arguably beneficial effects on soil chemistry and biology, and absence of impacts on crop production suggest that strategic tillage can be a valuable agronomic tool in sustainable production in this region.
New observable for measuring the CP property of top-Higgs interaction *
Authors: Cao Qing-Hong , Xie Ke-Pan , Zhang Hao , Zhang Rui
Published: December 2020

We propose a new dihedral angle observable for measuring the CP property of the interaction between the top quark and Higgs boson in

production at the 14 TeV Large Hadron Collider (LHC). We consider two decay modes of the Higgs boson,

and

, and demonstrate that the dihedral angle distribution is able to distinguish between the CP-even and the CP-odd hypothesis at a 95% confidence level, with an integrated luminosity of

.
Development of Machine Learning Applications for Chemical Objects
Authors: Setiawan A , Rostianingsih S , Halim CI
Published: December 2020

Machine learning is a method used to create programs that can learn from data or applications. In contrast to ordinary static computer programs, machine learning programs are programs designed to be able to learn on their own. Machine learning technology has been widely applied in various fields, including in chemistry. Currently the introduction of basic chemical objects is a study that has many concepts that are easy for beginners to understand and imagine, such as atomic structure and molecular shape in chemical bonds. So that an alternative learning media is needed in order to improve understanding of the concept of chemical objects interactively. Machine learning technology is expected to provide a more realistic interaction and is an advancement of a promising technological method that can motivate users to engage in a more active learning system.
Decay Performance Modelingof Historic Timber Roof Structures of Amantubillah Palace in Mempawah, Indonesia
Authors: Putra HE , Prabowo H , Indriana DR
Published: December 2020

Durability problem is a usual shortcoming of utilizing timber as a construction material. After exposed to the weather in decades, the historic timber building often experienced a severe deterioration process. Amantubillah Palace, as Mempawah Sultanate’s inheritance, also suffers from this process. The repair and replacement action are needed to preserve this legacy from the past. Thus, it is essential to know the remaining service life of the building. The calculations of decay depth were carried out by utilizing the Australian CSIRO model incorporating the parameters which are related to the Indonesian tropical climate. From the calculations, it is obtained that the decaying process will reach the centre of the cross-section in 83 years. It is recommended that repair or replacement action should be taken immediately.
Design of Biomass Briquette Stoves: Performance Based on Mixed of Durian Bark, Coconut Shell and Palm Shells as Materials of Bio Briquette
Authors: Sari E , Burmawi  , Khatab U , Rahman ED , Anindi A P , Andriyati E , Amri I
Published: December 2020

Biomass is a renewable energy source derived from plants and is known as green energy. Biomass is a term used for various types of organic matter in solid form that can be used as fuel. Bio Briquette is a solid fuel made from a mixture of biomass. This fuel is an alternative material that was developed in a bulk with relatively short time and is relatively cheaper. The use of briquettes that must be included with the use of a stove or stove which type and size must be adjusted to the needs. To increase the heat efficiency of the existing briquette stoves, this research was carried out using two different types of stove walls, namely cement-filled stoves and glass wool-filled walls. The performance of the stove can be seen from the combustion of biomass briquette fuel against the briquette shape was molded. From the tests that have been carried out, the efficiency of stoves with cement walls is 29.86%, while for stoves with glass wool walls is 40%. Of the three forms of bio briquette (ellipsoidal, cylinder, perforated cylinder) the use of cylindrical bio briquettes is better because the flame on the briquette is longer when compared to other forms.
A Comparison of Palm Fatty Acid Distillate (PFAD) Esterification using Sulphated Alumina versus Sulphuric Acid Catalyst
Authors: Ulfah M , Firdaus  , Sundari E , Praputri E
Published: December 2020

The selection of raw materials is the cost-wise strategy for biodiesel to compete with diesel. The raw material used in the second generation of biodiesel production is non-edible oil which contains high free fatty acids (FFA). Palm Fatty Acid Distillate (PFAD); the by-product of crude palm oil (CPO) industry has a high potential as the amount is abundant in Indonesia. The objective of this study is to compare the catalytic activity of esterification reaction using self-synthesized sulphated alumina and a sulphuric acid catalyst against the reduction of FFA. The reaction was carried out in a three-necked flask, at a temperature of 60°C, 7 hours of reaction time and rotation speed of 400 rpm. The results showed that the maximum FFA conversion of PFAD esterification reactions over sulphated alumina was 84%, achieved at methanol to oil ratio of 1.7 (v/v), catalyst to PFAD ratio of 12 % (w/w) and reaction time of 7 hours. Meanwhile, the optimum conditions for PFAD esterification usingsulphuric acid catalyst are methanol to oil volume ratio of 1.5; catalyst to PFAD ratio of 7.4 wt.% and 3 hours of reaction time. 99.34% of FFA conversion was achieved with the homogeneous catalyst.
Development of Electrically Conductive Cellulose Nanofiber FilmComposited with Carbon Nanotubes Using a Spray Method
Authors: Tominaga M , Kuwahara K , Tsushida M , Shida K
Published: December 2020

Nanocellulose is made from wood, cotton, cellulose-rich materials, and organisms by mechanical methods or chemical dissolution. Nanocellulosefilms are a flexible substrate with excellent thermal and chemical stability. These excellent properties are useful as electrodes for wearable type devices that replace plastic films. In addition, cellulose is both biodegradable and eco-friendly. Problem is that the cellulose film does not have electrical conductivity. In this study, a nanocelluloseconductive film made of composite carbon nanotubes was produced by a simple spray method. It was investigated whether this conductive film is useful as an electrode for electrochemical measurement.
Predicting Surface Hardness of Commercially Pure Titanium Under Plasma Nitrocarburizing Based on Experimental Data
Authors: Darmawan A S , Siswanto W A , Purboputro P I , Febriantoko B W , Sujitno T , Hamid A
Published: December 2020

One of the techniques to improve the surface hardness of commercially pure titanium is by using plasma nitrocarburizing. This paper presents an equation to predict the surface hardness with the variable of the treatment temperature and process time of plasma nitrocarburizing. Experimental studies were first conducted to collect surface hardness at different elevated temperatures with different process time. The prediction equation was then developed by using Lagrange’s Multivariable Interpolation method. It is found that commercially pure titanium surface hardness can be predicted as a function of time and temperature. This equation is able to predict the surface hardness of the experimental data with high accuracy. The errors of the predicted hardness to the experimental results are less than 1 percent.
Cinematizing the Epic Gaze: Julius Caesar and Pompey in Lucan and in the HBO/BBC Television SeriesRome1
Authors: Novokhatko Anna A.
Published: December 2020

In this article I argue that a gaze-oriented analysis of the representations of the protagonists Caesar and Pompey in Lucan’s epic The Civil War (written 62–65 ce) and in the recent television series Rome (broadcast by HBO, BBC Two and Rai 2 between 2005 and 2007) opens new opportunities both for interpreting Lucan’s text and for comprehending its reception in the television series. Lucan deliberately employs intensive vocabulary and narrative of vision and visuality when his protagonists appear. In Lucan, Caesar and Pompey are represented, zoomed in upon, and put into action in a cinematic way. The manner in which they see and are seen is crucial for their distinctiveness and determine their function in epic. In the television series, these patterns are taken over and reused within the new technical medium.
Finger blood flow after the cold challenge with primary Raynaud’s syndrome: a case report
Authors: Fujii Yuichi , Kishimoto Shinji , Higashi Yukihito
Published: December 2020

Background 

Raynaud’s syndrome is a commonly encountered disorder. The relationship between the grade of Raynaud’s phenomenon and severity of vasoconstriction is unclear. Recently, various methods including colour Doppler ultrasonography have been used for assessment of vascularity of the extremities including fingers.

Case summary 

A 53-year-old man had a 6-year history of Raynaud’s phenomenon with typical tri-coloured changes proceeding from white, blue to red and slight pain and slight paresthaesia in the fingers of both hands when his fingers were exposed to cold. He was diagnosed with primary Raynaud’s syndrome. After treatment with the calcium channel blocker amlodipine (5 mg once daily), a cold challenge did not induce Raynaud’s phenomenon on the fingers in the present patient. After the cold challenge, colour Doppler ultrasonography showed that vascularity was markedly decreased or was absent, whereas there was little difference in skin colour of the fingers.

Discussion 

In Raynaud's phenomenon, vasospasm may occur even if the symptoms are well-controlled with a calcium channel blocker. It is unlikely that clinical symptoms in patients with Raynaud’s syndrome always reflect the severity of vasoconstriction in their fingers.
Left atrial appendage closure device implantation via transhepatic vascular access: a case report
Authors: Zare Pegah , Rechani Luis , Smithson Shaun
Published: December 2020

Background

In patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, an estimated 90% of thrombi are located in the left atrial appendage. The WATCHMAN device is a left atrial appendage closure device that is an alternative therapeutic option to reduce the risk of systemic embolization in patients who are intolerant of long-term oral anticoagulation. It can be deployed in the left atrial appendage using a transseptal approach via the femoral vein. Transhepatic venous access is an alternative route for the delivery of the device in a patient with difficult vascular access.

Case summary

An 81-year-old man with persistent non-valvular atrial fibrillation, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), and diabetes mellitus was deemed a poor candidate for anticoagulation due to recurrent falls and gastrointestinal bleeding. He was selected for a left atrial appendage closure. The initial procedure was aborted after significant resistance to device advancement was encountered in the right femoral vein. Lower extremity venography demonstrated totally occluded femoral and iliac veins bilaterally. The decision was made to implant the device via a transhepatic approach. The procedure had no complications and the patient was discharged on rivaroxaban and aspirin after 3 days.

Discussion

Transhepatic venous access is a viable option in patients with poor femoral access for implantation of the WATCHMAN device. It can be done safely. Knowledge of this procedural alternative can greatly enhance patient care.
Simultaneous single lobar lung transplantation and contralateral lung volume reduction
Authors: Konoeda Chihiro , Sato Masaaki , Nagayama Kazuhiro , Nakajima Jun
Published: December 2020

Lung transplantation (LTx) and lung volume reduction surgery are established therapies for end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Although native lung hyperinflation is a well-known complication of unilateral LTx for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the unilateral procedure continues to be performed because of severe shortages of cadaveric donors. As native lung hyperinflation can adversely affect the graft, all possible protection should be provided for patients with one-lobe transplantation. We report an emphysematous juvenile patient who successfully underwent simultaneous living-donor, single-lobe LTx and volume reduction in the contralateral lung.
Frailty Modifies the Association of Hypertension With Cognition in Older Adults: Evidence From the ELSI-Brazil
Authors: Aliberti Márlon J R , Szlejf Claudia , Lima-Costa Maria Fernanda , de Andrade Fabíola B , Alexandre Tiago S , Ferri Cleusa P , Suemoto Claudia K
Published: December 2020

Background

The relationship between hypertension and cognition in later life is controversial. We investigated whether the association of hypertension with cognition differs in older adults according to the frailty status using cross-sectional data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging, a nationally representative sample of adults aged ≥50 years.

Method

Hypertension was defined by a medical diagnosis or measured blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg. Frailty status was assessed using the Cardiovascular Health Study criteria. We estimated the association of hypertension and systolic and diastolic blood pressure with global cognition, orientation, memory, and verbal fluency z-scores, using multiple linear regression models. We also investigated interactions between hypertension and frailty on cognitive performance and impairment.

Results

We evaluated 8609 participants (mean age = 61.9 ± 9.6 years, 53% women). Participants with hypertension (59% of adults aged 50–64 and 77% of those aged ≥65 years) had poorer scores for global cognitive performance than those without hypertension, especially among adults aged 50–64 years (β = −0.09; 95% confidence interval = −0.15, −0.04; p = .001). However, frailty modified the associations of hypertension with cognitive performance and impairment in those aged ≥65 years (p-values for interaction = .01 and .02, respectively). Among nonfrail older adults, hypertension was associated with cognitive impairment. In contrast, among frail older adults, hypertension was related to better global and memory cognitive z-scores.

Conclusions

Hypertension was associated with worse cognitive performance. Among older adults, hypertension was related to cognitive impairment only in nonfrail participants. Frailty evaluation may help clinicians offer personalized hypertension management in older adults.
Flexibility in wild infant chimpanzee vocal behavior
Authors: Dezecache Guillaume , Zuberbühler Klaus , Davila-Ross Marina , Dahl Christoph D.
Published: December 2020

How did human language evolve from earlier forms of communication? One way to address this question is to compare prelinguistic human vocal behavior with nonhuman primate calls. An important finding has been that, prior to speech and from early on, human infant vocal behavior exhibits functional flexibility, or the capacity to produce sounds that are not tied to one specific function. This is reflected in human infants’ use of single categories of protophones (precursors of speech sounds) in various affective circumstances, such that a given call type can occur in and express positive, neutral, or negative affective states, depending on the occasion. Nonhuman primate vocal behavior, in contrast, is seen as comparably inflexible, with different call types tied to specific functions and sometimes to specific affective states (e.g. screams mostly occur in negative circumstances). As a first step toward addressing this claim, we examined the vocal behavior of six wild infant chimpanzees during their first year of life. We found that the most common vocal signal, grunts, occurred in a range of contexts that were deemed positive, neutral, and negative. Using automated feature extraction and supervised learning algorithms, we also found acoustic variants of grunts produced in the affective contexts, suggesting gradation within this vocal category. In contrast, the second most common call type of infant chimpanzees, the whimpers, was produced in only one affective context, in line with standard models of nonhuman primate vocal behavior. Insofar as our affective categorization reflects infants’ true affective state, our results suggest that the most common chimpanzee vocalization, the grunt is not affectively bound. Affective decoupling is a prerequisite for chimpanzee grunts (and other vocal categories) to be deemed ‘functionally flexible’. If later confirmed to be a functionally flexible vocal type, this would indicate that the evolution of this foundational vocal capability occurred before the split between the Homo and Pan lineages.
Use of Exact Matching to Examine Media’s Effect on Intended Behavior the Case of the Addition of the 2020 Census Citizenship Question
Authors: Walejko Gina , Kriz Brian , García Trejo Yazmín A , Sandoval Girón Anna , Evans Sarah , Bates Nancy
Published: December 2020

Researchers have argued that events and surrounding media coverage shape attitudes and intended behaviors on topics related to the events (Langer et al. 1992; Hoekstra 2003). Such research relies on analyzing attitudinal trends using rolling cross-section designs or across data collections, but little published research measures whether an event covered by the media could shape a behavioral intention salient to that event within one data collection period. In 2018 the Census Bureau conducted the Census Barriers, Attitudes, and Motivators Study (CBAMS) survey. Five weeks into the survey’s field period, the Secretary of Commerce directed the Census Bureau to add a citizenship question to the 2020 Census, resulting in media coverage. The CBAMS survey asked likelihood to respond to the decennial census, which may have been affected by the external news environment. Treating this as a “natural experiment,” we match pre- and post-citizenship question-announcement respondents and report the results of a multivariate model predicting intent to respond to the census. We also examine differences between subgroups and their complements pre- and post-announcement. Although the citizenship question was not included on the 2020 Census, the odds that those responding after the citizenship question announcement were “extremely” or “very likely” to respond to the census were 20 percent lower than the odds of those responding before. Future research should examine the permanency of changes on intended behaviors, especially in cases where news coverage focused on an outcome—such as the addition of the citizenship question—that did not occur.
Review of the hagfishes (Myxinidae) from the Galapagos Islands, with descriptions of four new species and their phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Mincarone M M , Plachetzki D , McCord C L , Winegard T M , Fernholm B , Gonzalez C J , Fudge D S
Published: December 2020

Hagfishes are an ancient group of benthic marine craniates that are found in deep or cold waters around the world. Among the 83 valid species, four are described from the Galapagos Islands: Eptatretus bobwisneri, E. grouseri, E. mccoskeri and Rubicundus lakeside. During a recent expedition to the archipelago, six species of hagfishes were collected, including four undescribed species of the genera Eptatretus (Eptatretus goslinei sp. nov.) and Myxine (Myxine greggi sp. nov., M. martinii sp. nov. and M. phantasma sp. nov.). In this paper, we provide a review of the eight species of hagfishes from the Galapagos Islands, including new diagnoses and an identification key for all species. Myxine phantasma is remarkable in that it is the only species of Myxine known to completely lack melanin-based pigments. Our species delineations were based on both morphological and molecular analyses. A phylogenetic hypothesis based on molecular data suggests that Galapagos hagfishes arose from multiple independent colonisations of the islands from as many as five different ancestral lineages. The large number of endemic hagfishes in the geologically young Galapagos Islands suggests that there is much global hagfish diversity yet to be discovered.
Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Speech Intelligibility Deficits Following Threshold Recovery
Authors: Okada Masahiro , Parthasarathy Aravindakshan , Welling D. Bradley , Liberman M. Charles , Maison Stéphane F.
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

This retrospective study tests the hypothesis that patients who have recovered from idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) show deficits in word recognition tasks that cannot be entirely explained by a loss in audibility.

Design:

We reviewed the audiologic profile of 166 patients presenting with a unilateral SSNHL. Hearing loss severity, degree of threshold recovery, residual hearing loss, and word recognition performance were considered as outcome variables. Age, route of treatment, delay between SSNHL onset and treatment, and audiogram configuration were considered as predictor variables.

Results:

Severity, residual hearing loss, and recovery were highly variable across patients. While age and onset-treatment delay could not account for the severity, residual hearing loss and recovery in thresholds, configuration of the SSNHL and overall inner ear status as measured by thresholds on the contralateral ear were predictive of threshold recovery. Speech recognition performance was significantly poorer than predicted by the speech intelligibility curve derived from the patient’s audiogram.

Conclusions:

SSNHL is associated with (1) changes in thresholds that are consistent with ischemia and (2) speech intelligibility deficits that cannot be entirely explained by a change in hearing sensitivity.
MAP2K1-Mutated Melanocytic Neoplasms With a SPARK-Like Morphology
Authors: Donati Michele , Nosek Daniel , Waldenbäck Pia , Martinek Petr , Jonsson Björn-Anders , Galgonkova Petra , Hawawrehova Marcela , Berouskova Petra , Kastnerova Liubov , Persichetti Paolo , Crescenzi Anna , Michal Michal , Kazakov Dmitry V.
Published: December 2020

Specific alterations involving MAPK genes (MAP3K8 fusions, MAP3K3 fusions) have been recently detected in a subgroup of spitzoid neoplasms that seem to constitute a distinctive clinicopathologic group, occur mostly in younger patients (median age 18 years) and present with atypical histologic features associated with frequent homozygous deletion of CDKN2A, qualifying a high proportion of them as Spitz melanoma (malignant Spitz tumor). Apart from lesions with spitzoid morphology harboring MAP3K8 or MAP3K3 fusion, a single case with MAP2K1 deletion has been identified. The authors report herein 4 melanocytic lesions with a MAP2K1 mutation, all showing similar microscopic appearances, including spitzoid cytology and dysplastic architectural features, resembling so-called SPARK nevus, suggesting that these lesions may represent another distinctive group.
Hospital-based Surveillance for Pediatric Norovirus Gastroenteritis in Bangladesh, 2012–2016
Authors: Satter Syed M. , Abdullah Zarin , Cardemil Cristina V. , Flora Meerjady S. , Gurley Emily S. , Rahman Mahmudur , Talha Muhammad , Islam Md D. , Hossain Mohammad E. , Balachandran Neha , Lopman Benjamin , Rahman Mustafizur , Vinjé Jan , Hall Aron J. , Parashar Umesh D.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Globally, noroviruses are recognized as an important cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE), but data from low and middle-income countries are limited.

Aims:

To examine the epidemiology and strain diversity of norovirus infections among children hospitalized for AGE in Bangladesh.

Methods:

We implemented active surveillance of children <5 years of age hospitalized with AGE at 8 geographically dispersed tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh from July 2012 to June 2016. We tested random samples of AGE cases stratified by site and age group for norovirus by real-time RT-PCR. Noro-positive specimens were genotyped. Coinfection with rotavirus was assessed based on prior EIA testing.

Results:

We enrolled 5622 total AGE cases, of which 1008 were tested for norovirus. Total of 137 (14%) AGE cases tested positive for norovirus (range, 11%–17% by site). Most (94%) norovirus-associated hospitalizations were among children less than 2 years of age. Norovirus was detected year-round, with higher detection from March to June (20%–38%) and November to January (9%–18%). Genogroup II (GII) noroviruses were detected in 96% of cases, and the most frequent genotypes were GII.4 Sydney [P4 New Orleans] (33%), GII.3 [P16] (20%), and GII.4 Sydney [P16] (11%). The proportion of norovirus-positive specimens was significantly greater among rotavirus-negative AGE patients compared with rotavirus-positive AGE patients (27% vs. 5%, P < 0.001). As measured by the Vesikari severity score, a similar proportion of norovirus and rotavirus positive AGE patients were considered severe (68% vs. 70%, P = 0.86).

Conclusions:

Norovirus is an important cause of AGE hospitalization in Bangladeshi children with most infections caused by GII viruses.
Relevance of Methane and Carbon Dioxide Evaluation in Breath Tests for Carbohydrate Malabsorption in a Paediatric Cohort
Authors: Hammer Karin , Hasanagic Hana , Memaran Nima , Huber Wolf‐Dietrich , Hammer Johann
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

The relevance of methane measurement in breath tests for the detection of carbohydrate malabsorption in children is controversial. The need for correction for poor sample collection is disputed. We evaluated the relevance of methane/CO2 measurements for the diagnosis of paediatric carbohydrate malabsorption.

Methods:

A total of 132 breath tests (fructose: n = 54; lactose: n = 78) were performed in 91 children/adolescents with functional abdominal complaints. Breath samples were collected and analysed for hydrogen, methane, and CO2. Malabsorption was defined by a net increase over baseline of ≥20 parts per million (ppm) for hydrogen, ≥5 to ≥12 ppm for methane, and ≥10 to ≥15 ppm for hydrogen‐plus‐methane. The diagnosis was made before and after the use of a CO2‐based correction factor (5.5% as the numerator). Hydrogen‐based test results were compared with results obtained with other cut‐off values.

Results:

Fifty‐eight positive tests were obtained by hydrogen measurement (without CO2 correction). The addition of methane measurements did not significantly influence the test results (P > 0.05). Only under the use of extraordinary cut‐offs (combined hydrogen‐plus‐methane smaller than ≥18 ppm) did the rate of malabsorbers increase significantly (P < 0.05). After CO2 correction, hydrogen ≥20 ppm was detected in 4 additional patients, but 1 patient lost the hydrogen‐based diagnosis of malabsorption (Cohen kappa = 0.92).

Conclusions:

Methane measurement did not significantly affect the detection rate of carbohydrate malabsorbers in children/adolescents with functional abdominal complaints when established cut‐offs are used. The use of CO2 correction altered the diagnosis of malabsorption in a minority of patients but did not significantly alter overall test results.
Megacystis Microcolon Intestinal Hypoperistalsis Syndrome
Authors: Prathapan Krishnapriya Marangattu , King Dale E. , Raghu Vikram Kalathur , Ackerman Kimberly , Presel Tracey , Yaworski Jane Anne , Ganoza Armando , Bond Geoffrey , Sevilla Wednesday Marie A. , Rudolph Jeffrey A. , Alissa Feras
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

Describe clinical characteristics, management, and outcome in a cohort of megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS) patients.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective chart review of MMIHS patients followed at a large transplant and intestinal rehabilitation center over a period of 17 years.

Results:

We identified 25 patients with MMIHS (68% girls, 13 transplanted). One transplanted and 1 nontransplanted patient were lost to follow‐up. We estimated 100, 100, and 86% for 5‐, 10‐, and 20‐year survival, respectively, with only 1 death. Of the 22 patients alive at the time of study (11 transplanted, 11 nontransplanted), median age was 9.2 years (range 2.7–22.9 years). Longest posttransplant follow‐up was 16 years. Seventeen patients had available prenatal imaging reports; all showed distended bladder. Eight had genetic testing (5, ACTG2; 2, MYH11; 1, MYL9). Almost all patients had normal growth with median weight z‐score −0.77 (interquartile range −1.39 to 0.26), height z score −1.2 (−2.04 to −0.48) and body mass index z‐score 0.23 (−0.37 to 0.93) with no statistical difference between transplanted and nontransplanted patients. All nontransplanted patients were on parenteral nutrition with minimal/no feeds, and all except 1 of the transplanted patients were on full enteral feeds. Recent average bilirubin, INR, albumin, and creatinine fell within the reference ranges.

Conclusions:

This is the largest single‐center case series with the longest duration of follow‐up for MMIHS patients. In the current era of improved intestinal rehabilitation and transplantation, MMIHS patients have excellent outcomes in survival, growth, and liver function. This observation contradicts previous reports and should alter counselling and management decisions in these patients at diagnosis.
Incident Liver Cirrhosis, Associated Factors, and Cardiovascular Disease Risks Among People Living With HIV: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Han Win Min , Ueaphongsukkit Thornthun , Chattranukulchai Pairoj , Siwamogsatham Sarawut , Chaiteerakij Roongruedee , Sophonphan Jiratchaya , Gatechompol Sivaporn , Ubolyam Sasiwimol , Phonphithak Supalak , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Tangkijvanich Pisit , Avihingsanon Yingyos , Kerr Stephen J. , Avihingsanon Anchalee
Published: December 2020

Objectives:

We investigated the incidence and associated factors of liver cirrhosis and cardiovascular disease risks among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in a Thai cohort.

Design:

A prospective cohort analysis.

Methods:

Participants with at least one reliable transient elastography measurement during follow-up, who had pretreatment alanine transaminase, AST, and platelet count at HIV treatment initiation were included. Liver cirrhosis was defined as AST to Platelet Ratio Index >1.5 or fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) >3.25 or liver stiffness by transient elastography >12.5 kPa and confirmed by imaging or liver biopsy. Competing-risk regression was used to identify factors associated with liver cirrhosis. Time-updated 10-year atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) risks were compared between PLHIV with or without liver cirrhosis.

Results:

A total of 1069 participants (33% women, 9% hepatitis C virus, and 16% hepatitis B virus) with the median age and CD4 at cART initiation of 32 years and 240 cells/mm3 were included. During 8232 person-years, 124 (12%) developed liver cirrhosis after a median of 6.9 (2.4–13.7) follow-up years [incidence, 1.5 (95% confidence interval: 1.3 to 1.8) per 100 person-years]. In multivariable analysis, the factors independently associated with liver cirrhosis were time-updated HIV viremia, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus coinfection, diabetes mellitus, high-density lipoproteins <40 mg/mL, and d4T exposure. The median time-updated 10-year ASCVD risk score was statistically higher among cirrhotic PLHIV vs. noncirrhosis [4.9% (interquartile range, 2.3–9.7) vs. 2.4% (interquartile range, 1.3–4.9), P < 0.001].

Conclusion:

PLHIV with metabolic diseases were more likely to develop liver cirrhosis, independent of hepatitis coinfections, and ASCVD risks were higher among cirrhotic individuals.
Influences on Early Discontinuation and Persistence of Daily Oral PrEP Use Among Kenyan Adolescent Girls and Young Women: A Qualitative Evaluation From a PrEP Implementation Program
Authors: Pintye Jillian , O'Malley Gabrielle , Kinuthia John , Abuna Felix , Escudero Jaclyn N. , Mugambi Melissa , Awuor Mercy , Dollah Annabell , Dettinger Julia C. , Kohler Pamela , John-Stewart Grace , Beima-Sofie Kristin
Published: December 2020

Background:

Discontinuation of daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is frequent among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in African settings. We explored factors influencing early PrEP discontinuation and persistence among Kenyan AGYW who accepted PrEP within a programmatic setting.

Methods:

We conducted in-depth interviews with AGYW (aged 15–24 years) who accepted PrEP from 4 maternal child health (MCH) and family planning (FP) clinics. AGYW were identified by nurses at routine clinic visits and purposively sampled based on 4 categories: (1) accepted PrEP pills, but never initiated PrEP use (eg, never swallowed PrEP pills), (2) discontinued PrEP <1 month after initiation, (3) discontinued PrEP within 1–3 months, and (4) persisted with PrEP use >3 months. Informed by the Stages of Change Model, thematic analysis characterized key influences on PrEP discontinuation/persistence.

Results:

We conducted 93 in-depth interviews with AGYW who accepted pills. Median age was 22 years, 71% were married; 89% were from MCH, and 11% were from FP clinics. Early PrEP use was positively influenced by encouragement from close confidants and effective concealment of PrEP pill-taking when necessary to avoid stigma or negative reactions from partners. Pregnancy helped conceal PrEP use because pill-taking is normalized during pregnancy, but concealment became more difficult postpartum. AGYW found keeping up with daily PrEP pill-taking challenging, and many noted only episodic periods of the HIV risk. Frequently testing HIV-negative reassured AGYW that PrEP was working and motivated persistence.

Discussion:

As PrEP programs scale-up in MCH/FP, it is increasingly important to enhance protection-effective PrEP use through approaches tailored to AGYW, with special considerations during pregnancy and postpartum.
Different Patterns of Gray Matter Volume Reduction in Early-onset and Late-onset Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Chishiki Yoshikazu , Hirano Shigeki , Li Hongliang , Kojima Kazuho , Nakano Yoshikazu , Sakurai Toru , Mukai Hiroki , Sugiyama Atsuhiko , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: December 2020

Background:

Individuals with early-onset Alzheimer disease (EOAD) differ from those with late-onset Alzheimer disease (LOAD) not only in genetics and age at onset but also in their clinical symptoms.

Objective:

To differentiate the neuropathological and neurocognitive features of EOAD and LOAD by comparing the pattern of regional gray matter volume (GMV) reduction and its symptomatic correlates.

Method:

Three-dimensional T1-weighted MRIs and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores were obtained from 12 individuals with EOAD, 65 with LOAD, and 49 healthy controls (HC). Regional GMV reduction between the three groups was assessed using voxel-based morphometry. Multiple regression analyses were conducted with MMSE total score as an independent variable.

Results:

Compared to the HC, both AD groups showed a significant GMV reduction in the bilateral hippocampus and the left temporoparietal junction; in addition, the LOAD group showed one in the bilateral anterior temporal lobes. Multiple regression analyses revealed a positive correlation between MMSE total score and GMV in the left anterior temporal lobe in both AD groups; that is, lower scores were associated with reduced GMV. Interestingly, a positive correlation in hippocampal GMV was revealed only in the LOAD group.

Conclusion:

MMSE total score is associated with the anterior temporal lobe volume in individuals with AD. Hippocampal volume and its relationship with MMSE total score are associated with LOAD pathophysiology but not EOAD pathophysiology. The hippocampal volume reduction and low MMSE scores are hallmarks of LOAD but are less specific to EOAD, which may cause a delay in diagnosis.
Comparison of Proximal and Distal Techniques for the Medial Antebrachial Cutaneous Sensory Nerve Conduction Study
Authors: Rubin Devon I. , Lamb Christopher J.
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

The medial antebrachial cutaneous (MAC) sensory nerve conduction study (NCS) is a technique performed to evaluate for medial cord/lower trunk plexopathies. Low-amplitude responses and muscle artifact pose technical challenges for MAC NCS. To compare the recorded sensory NCS responses using a proximal MAC (pMAC) NCS technique with a distal (dMAC) technique.

To compare the recorded sensory NCS responses using a proximal MAC (pMAC) NCS technique with a distal (dMAC) technique.

Methods:

Adults referred to our neurophysiology laboratory for whom MAC NCS were clinically indicated were included. Medial antebrachial cutaneous NCS were performed using dMAC (stimulating at the elbow) and pMAC (stimulating in upper arm) techniques. Amplitudes and peak latencies were compared.

Results:

Forty-eight patients (82 arms: 39 right and 43 left) were studied. The mean amplitude difference (95% confidence interval) in right pMAC over right dMAC was 4.4 μV (range, 2.78–6.09 μV; P < 0.0001) and that of left pMAC over left dMAC was 5.23 μV (range, 3.35–7.12 μV; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

The pMAC technique recorded larger mean amplitudes than the dMAC technique, which may improve the technical reliability and diagnostic accuracy when identifying plexopathies.
Dynamic social learning in temporally and spatially variable environments
Authors: Deffner Dominik , Kleinow Vivien , McElreath Richard
Published: December 2020

Cultural evolution is partly driven by the strategies individuals use to learn behaviour from others. Previous experiments on strategic learning let groups of participants engage in repeated rounds of a learning task and analysed how choices are affected by individual payoffs and the choices of group members. While groups in such experiments are fixed, natural populations are dynamic, characterized by overlapping generations, frequent migrations and different levels of experience. We present a preregistered laboratory experiment with 237 mostly German participants including migration, differences in expertise and both spatial and temporal variation in optimal behaviour. We used simulation and multi-level computational learning models including time-varying parameters to investigate adaptive time dynamics in learning. Confirming theoretical predictions, individuals relied more on (conformist) social learning after spatial compared with temporal changes. After both types of change, they biased decisions towards more experienced group members. While rates of social learning rapidly declined in rounds following migration, individuals remained conformist to group-typical behaviour. These learning dynamics can be explained as adaptive responses to different informational environments. Summarizing, we provide empirical insights and introduce modelling tools that hopefully can be applied to dynamic social learning in other systems.