bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terms, definitions and measurements to describe sonographic features of lymph nodes: consensus opinion from the Vulvar International Tumor Analysis (VITA) group
Authors: Fischerova D. , Garganese G. , Reina H. , Fragomeni S. M. , Cibula D. , Nanka O. , Rettenbacher T. , Testa A. C. , Epstein E. , Guiggi I. , Frühauf F. , Manegold G. , Scambia G. , Valentin L.
Published: June 2021

In centers with access to high‐end ultrasound machines and expert sonologists, ultrasound is used to detect metastases in regional lymph nodes from melanoma, breast cancer and vulvar cancer. There is, as yet, no international consensus on ultrasound assessment of lymph nodes in any disease or medical condition. The lack of standardized ultrasound nomenclature to describe lymph nodes makes it difficult to compare results from different ultrasound studies and to find reliable ultrasound features for distinguishing non‐infiltrated lymph nodes from lymph nodes infiltrated by cancer or lymphoma cells. The Vulvar International Tumor Analysis (VITA) collaborative group consists of gynecologists, gynecologic oncologists and radiologists with expertise in gynecologic cancer, particularly in the ultrasound staging and treatment of vulvar cancer. The work herein is a consensus opinion on terms, definitions and measurements which may be used to describe inguinal lymph nodes on grayscale and color/power Doppler ultrasound. The proposed nomenclature need not be limited to the description of inguinal lymph nodes as part of vulvar cancer staging; it can be used to describe peripheral lymph nodes in general, as well as non‐peripheral (i.e. parietal or visceral) lymph nodes if these can be visualized clearly. The association between the ultrasound features described here and histopathological diagnosis has not yet been established. VITA terms and definitions lay the foundations for prospective studies aiming to identify ultrasound features typical of metastases and other pathology in lymph nodes and studies to elucidate the role of ultrasound in staging of vulvar and other malignancies. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Bell–like [Ga5] clusters in Sr3Li5Ga5: synthesis, crystal structure and bonding analysis.
Authors: Kotsch Matthias , Prots Yurii , Ormeci Alim , Senyshyn Anatoliy , Kohout Miroslav , Grin Yuri
Published: June 2021

During the search for a possible replacement of the europium in the structure Eu3Li5+xGa5−x (x = 0.15) in order to facilitate the analysis of the chemical bonding in the bell–like [Ga5] clusters, the isostructural compound Sr3Li5Ga5 (space group R
 m, a = 9.6040(5) Å, c = 22.061(1) Å) was discovered. A detailed investigation of the bonding situation in the first five–membered nonconvex Ga cluster utilizing the electron localizability approach became possible, revealing not only first signs of a transition from a Zintl to a Wade cluster, but also the presence of a [Sr6] polycation.
Complications in AVM Surgery
Authors: Cenzato Marco , Boeris Davide , Piparo Maurizio , Fratianni Alessia , Piano Maria Angela , Dones Flavia , Crisà Francesco M. , D’Aliberti Giuseppe
Published: June 2021

In AVM surgery perioperative complications can arise and can have serious perioperative consequences. Surgically related complications in AVM treatment, in many cases, can be avoided by paying attention to details:

1. Careful selection of the patient: - addressing a patient with eloquent AVM to Gamma Knife treatment - preoperative treatment with selective embolization of the accessible deep feeders - preoperative gamma knife or embolize those patient with an over-expressed venous pattern

2. Meticulous coagulation of deep medullary feeders: - Using dirty coagulation - Using dry non-stick coagulation - Using micro clips - Using laser - Reaching the choroidal vessel in the ventricle when possible - Avoiding occlusive coagulation with hemostatic agents

3. Check and avoiding any residual of the AVM

4. Keep the patient under pressure control during postoperative period

Fulfilling these steps contributes to reduce complications in this difficult surgery, leading to a safer treatment that compares favorably with natural history of brain arteriovenous malformations.
Spinal Dural AVFs: Classifications and Advanced Imaging
Authors: Tanaka Michihiro
Published: June 2021

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) are the most common vascular shunts of the spine. They occur predominantly in men (more than 80%), commonly involve the thoracolumbar spine, and usually cause progressive myelopathy because of venous congestion of the spinal cord. Recent advanced imaging technology can visualize the detailed angioarchitecture of the spinal cord, and this provides more information of the regional microanatomy related with the shunt disease. We retrospectively analyzed the location of the shunt with adjacent vasculatures and assessed the efficacy and the sensitivity of each imaging modality. Based on these data, a new concept of classification for SDAVFs was reviewed.
When Is Diagnostic Subtraction Angiography Indicated Before Clipping of Unruptured and Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms? An International Survey of Current Practice
Authors: Sebök Martina , Dufour Jean-Philippe , Cenzato Marco , Kaku Yasuhiko , Tanaka Michihiro , Tsukahara Tetsuya , Regli Luca , Esposito Giuseppe
Published: June 2021

Introduction: The goal of this survey is to investigate the indications for preoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA) before clipping of ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms in an international panel of neurovascular specialists.

Methods: An anonymous survey of 23 multiple-choice questions relating to indications for DSA before clipping of an intracranial aneurysm was distributed to the international panel of attendees of the European-Japanese Cerebrovascular Congress (EJCVC), which took place in Milan, Italy on 7–9 June 2018. The survey was collected during the same conference. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results: A total of 93 surveys were distributed, and 67 (72%) completed surveys were returned by responders from 13 different countries. Eighty-five percent of all responders were neurosurgeons. For unruptured and ruptured middle cerebral artery (MCA) aneurysms without life-threatening hematoma, approximately 60% of responders perform surgery without preoperative DSA. For aneurysms in other locations than MCA, microsurgery is done without preoperative DSA in 68% of unruptured and in 73% of ruptured cases. In cases of ruptured MCA or ruptured non-MCA aneurysms with life-threatening hematoma, surgery is performed without DSA in 97% and 96% of patients, respectively. Factors which lead to preoperative DSA being performed were: aneurysmal shape (fusiform, dissecting), etiology (infectious), size (>25 mm), possible presence of perforators or efferent vessels arising from the aneurysm, intra-aneurysmal thrombus, previous treatment, location (posterior circulation and paraclinoid aneurysm) and flow-replacement bypass contemplated for final aneurysm treatment. These are all factors that qualify an aneurysm as a complex aneurysm.

Conclusion: There is still a high variability in the surgeons’ preoperative workup regarding the indication for DSA before clipping of ruptured and unruptured intracranial aneurysms, except for ruptured aneurysms with life-threatening hematoma. There is a general consensus among cerebrovascular specialists that any angioanatomical feature indicating a complex aneurysm should lead to a more detailed workup including preoperative DSA.
Intraoperative BOLD-fMRI Cerebrovascular Reactivity Assessment
Authors: Muscas Giovanni , van Niftrik Christiaan Hendrik Bas , Sebök Martina , Esposito Giuseppe , Regli Luca , Fierstra Jorn
Published: June 2021

Blood oxygenation-level dependent cerebrovascular reactivity (BOLD-CVR) has gained attention in recent years as an effective way to investigate CVR, a measure of the hemodynamic state of the brain, with high spatial and temporal resolution. An association between impaired CVR and diverse pathologies has been observed, especially in ischemic cerebrovascular diseases and brain gliomas. The ability to obtain this information intraoperatively is novel and has not been widely tested. We report our first experience with this intraoperative technique in vascular and oncologic neurosurgical patients, discuss the results of its feasibility, and the possible developments of the intraoperative employment of BOLD-CVR.
The Hybrid Neurosurgeon: The Japanese Experience
Authors: Kaku Yasuhiko , Yamada Takumi , Yasuda Shouji , Kanou Kiyomitsu , Oka Naoki , Kokuzawa Jouji
Published: June 2021

Objective: In Japan, hybrid neurosurgeons who perform both open surgical clipping as well as endovascular embolization for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms are common. Although many Japanese neurosurgeons can perform surgical clipping of middle cerebral artery aneurysms or internal carotid artery—posterior communicating artery aneurysms and coil embolization of cerebral aneurysms using simple techniques—only a limited number of neurosurgeons are able to perform surgical clipping and endovascular procedures for anterior communicating artery aneurysms, paraclinoid, or posterior circulation aneurysms using both treatment modalities equally and safely. Materials and methods: The senior author’s personal experience of more than 500 cases each of surgical clipping and endovascular embolization over the past 25 years included 110 cases of basilar tip aneurysms and 104 cases of paraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms. Results: The safety and efficacy of both treatments appears to be the same, while the durability of surgical clipping is superior to that of endovascular embolization. Among the 110 basilar tip aneurysms, 18 patients were treated by surgical clipping and 94 were treated by endovascular embolization. The initial results of endovascular therapy seemed to be better than those of surgical clipping, although the rate of retreatment was higher. Among the 104 cases of paraclinoid ICA aneurysm, 23 patients were treated by surgical clipping and 81 were treated by endovascular embolization. The results of both treatments seemed to be same, while surgical clipping had apparently good long-term durability. Over the past 15 years, the frequency of surgical clipping for basilar tip aneurysms has decreased, and the procedure may eventually be abandoned for this type of aneurysm. However, surgical clipping still offers several advantages in the treatment of paraclinoid aneurysms. Conclusions: Hybrid neurosurgeons can make reasonable decisions concerning the choice of treatment for cerebral aneurysms, as they perform both treatments and understand the benefits and drawbacks of each modality.
Microneurosurgery for Paraclinoid Aneurysms in the Context of Flow Diverters
Authors: Luzzi Sabino , Del Maestro Mattia , Galzio Renato
Published: June 2021

The advent of flow diverter (FD) stents has apparently reduced the role of microneurosurgery for paraclinoid aneurysms despite sparse high-quality evidence about their long-term effects.

The present study critically reviews the overall results of a microneurosurgical series of 57 paraclinoid aneurysms.

Of these aneurysms, 47.4% were regular in size while 19.3 were giant. Barami type I was predominant. In 21 aneurysms a hemorrhagic onset occurred. Pterional approach with intradural anterior clinoidectomy was preferred by far. Clipping was possible in 91.2% of aneurysms and a high-flow bypass was the choice in five cases. An mRS of 0–2 was achieved in 77.3% of patients, typically <50 years old.

Visual field appeared improved or unchanged in 36.3% and 63.6% of the symptomatic patients, respectively. In 76.1% of incidental aneurysms, campimetry was unaffected by surgery.

A complete aneurysm exclusion was achieved in 93% of cases using a single procedure. No recurrences were documented on an average follow-up of 54.1 ± 34 months.

Microneurosurgery is still a valuable, definitive, and durable option for Barami type Ia, Ib, or II paraclinoid aneurysm, especially in patients <50 years old and visually symptomatic. Conditions other than these are ideal candidates for FD stents.
Interleukin-2 PET imaging in patients with metastatic melanoma before and during immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy
Authors: van de Donk Pim P. , Wind Thijs T. , Hooiveld-Noeken Jahlisa S. , van der Veen Elly L. , Glaudemans Andor W. J. M. , Diepstra Arjan , Jalving Mathilde , de Vries Elisabeth G. E. , de Vries Erik F. J. , Hospers Geke A. P.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Immune checkpoint inhibitors can induce a T cell–mediated anti-tumor immune response in patients with melanoma. Visualizing T cell activity using positron emission tomography (PET) might allow early insight into treatment efficacy. Activated tumor–infiltrating T cells express the high-affinity interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R). Therefore, we performed a pilot study, using fluorine-18-labeled IL-2 ([18F]FB-IL2 PET), to evaluate whether a treatment-induced immune response can be detected.

Methods

Patients with metastatic melanoma received ~ 200 MBq [18F]FB-IL2 intravenously, followed by a PET/CT scan before and during immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. [18F]FB-IL2 uptake was measured as standardized uptake value in healthy tissues (SUVmean) and tumor lesions (SUVmax). Response to therapy was assessed using RECIST v1.1. Archival tumor tissues were used for immunohistochemical analyses of T cell infiltration.

Results

Baseline [18F]FB-IL2 PET scans were performed in 13 patients. SUVmean at baseline was highest in the kidneys (14.2, IQR: 11.6–18.0) and liver (10.6, IQR: 8.6–13.4). In lymphoid tissues, uptake was highest in spleen (10.9, IQR: 8.8–12.4) and bone marrow (2.5, IQR: 2.1–3.0). SUVmax in tumor lesions (n = 41) at baseline was 1.9 (IQR: 1.7–2.3). In 11 patients, serial imaging was performed, three at week 6, seven at week 2, and one at week 4. Median [18F]FB-IL2 tumor uptake decreased from 1.8 (IQR: 1.7–2.1) at baseline to 1.7 (IQR: 1.4–2.1) during treatment (p = 0.043). Changes in [18F]FB-IL2 tumor uptake did not correlate with response. IL-2R expression in four archival tumor tissues was low and did not correlate with baseline [18F]FB-IL2 uptake. No [18F]FB-IL2-related side effects occurred.

Conclusion

PET imaging of the IL-2R, using [18F]FB-IL2, is safe and feasible. In this small patient group, serial [18F]FB-IL2-PET imaging did not detect a treatment-related immune response.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02922283; EudraCT: 2014-003387.20
Matrix Normal Cluster-Weighted Models
Authors: Tomarchio Salvatore D. , McNicholas Paul D. , Punzo Antonio
Published: June 2021

Finite mixtures of regressions with fixed covariates are a commonly used model-based clustering methodology to deal with regression data. However, they assume assignment independence, i.e., the allocation of data points to the clusters is made independently of the distribution of the covariates. To take into account the latter aspect, finite mixtures of regressions with random covariates, also known as cluster-weighted models (CWMs), have been proposed in the univariate and multivariate literature. In this paper, the CWM is extended to matrix data, e.g., those data where a set of variables are simultaneously observed at different time points or locations. Specifically, the cluster-specific marginal distribution of the covariates and the cluster-specific conditional distribution of the responses given the covariates are assumed to be matrix normal. Maximum likelihood parameter estimates are derived using an expectation-conditional maximization algorithm. Parameter recovery, classification assessment, and the capability of the Bayesian information criterion to detect the underlying groups are investigated using simulated data. Finally, two real data applications concerning educational indicators and the Italian non-life insurance market are presented.
New insights into glial scar formation after spinal cord injury
Authors: Tran Amanda Phuong , Warren Philippa Mary , Silver Jerry
Published: June 2021

Severe spinal cord injury causes permanent loss of function and sensation throughout the body. The trauma causes a multifaceted torrent of pathophysiological processes which ultimately act to form a complex structure, permanently remodeling the cellular architecture and extracellular matrix. This structure is traditionally termed the glial/fibrotic scar. Similar cellular formations occur following stroke, infection, and neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) signifying their fundamental importance to preservation of function. It is increasingly recognized that the scar performs multiple roles affecting recovery following traumatic injury. Innovative research into the properties of this structure is imperative to the development of treatment strategies to recover motor function and sensation following CNS trauma. In this review, we summarize how the regeneration potential of the CNS alters across phyla and age through formation of scar-like structures. We describe how new insights from next-generation sequencing technologies have yielded a more complex portrait of the molecular mechanisms governing the astrocyte, microglial, and neuronal responses to injury and development, especially of the glial component of the scar. Finally, we discuss possible combinatorial therapeutic approaches centering on scar modulation to restore function after severe CNS injury.
Numerical Investigation of Sloshing Under Roll Excitation at Shallow Liquid Depths and the Effect of Baffles
Authors: Kamath Arun , Grotle Erlend Liavåg , Bihs Hans
Published: June 2021

Sloshing is relevant in several applications like ship tanks, space and automotive industry and seiching in harbours. Due to the relationship between ship and sloshing motions and possibility of structural damage, it is important to represent this phenomenon accurately. This paper investigates sloshing at shallow liquid depths in a rectangular container using experiments and RANS simulations. Free and forced sloshing, with and without baffles, are studied at frequencies chosen specifically in proximity to the first mode natural frequency. The numerically calculated free surface elevation is in close agreement with observations from experiments. The upper limit of the resonance zone, sloshing under different filling depths and roll amplitudes and sloshing with one, two and four baffles are also investigated. The results show that the extent of the resonance zone is reduced for higher filling depth and roll amplitude. It is also found that the inclusion of baffles moves the frequency at which the maximum free surface elevation occurs, away from the fundamental frequency. Finally, a submerged baffle is found to dissipate more energy compared to a surface piercing baffle and that the effect of several submerged baffles is similar to that of a single submerged baffle.
Assessing the exposure and hazard of diesel exhaust in professional drivers: a review of the current state of knowledge
Authors: Lim Shanon , Holliday Lois , Barratt Benjamin , Griffiths Chris J. , Mudway Ian S.
Published: June 2021

It is well-established that traffic-related air pollution has a detrimental impact on health. Much of the focus has been on diesel exhaust emissions due to a rapid increase in vehicle numbers and studies finding that this pollutant is carcinogenic. Unsurprisingly, the highest diesel exposures that the general population experiences are during urban daily commutes; however, few studies have considered professional drivers who are chronically exposed to the pollutant due to their work in transport microenvironments. In this narrative review, we address the literature on professional drivers’ exposure to diesel exhaust and advocate that a modern exposure science approach utilised in commuter personal exposure studies is needed. This type of evaluation will provide a more detailed understanding of the time-activity of professional drivers’ exposures which is required to identify specific interventions to reduce their risk to diesel exhaust emissions.
The handling of SARS-CoV-2 associated deaths - infectivity of the body
Authors: Schröder Ann Sophie , Edler Carolin , Ondruschka Benjamin , Püschel Klaus , Schädler Julia , Heinemann Axel , Heinrich Fabian , Lütgehetmann Marc , Pfefferle Susanne , Aepfelbacher Martin , Fitzek Antonia , Sperhake Jan-Peter
Published: June 2021

The body of a deceased with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is considered infectious. In this study, we present the results of infectivity testing of the body and testing of mortuary staff for SARS-CoV-2. We performed real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) for SARS-CoV-2 on 33 decedents with ante mortem confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Swabs of the body surface from five different body regions and from the body bag or coffin were examined. A subset of the swabs was brought into cell culture. In addition, screening of 25 Institute of Legal Medicine (ILM) personnel for ongoing or past SARS-CoV-2 infection was performed at two different time points during the pandemic. Swabs from all locations of the body surface and the body environment were negative in cases of negative post mortem nasopharyngeal testing (n=9). When the post mortem nasopharyngeal swab tested positive (n=24), between 0 and 5 of the body surface swabs were also positive, primarily the perioral region. In six of the cases, the body bag also yielded a positive result. The longest postmortem interval with positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR at the body surface was nine days. In no case viable SARS-CoV-2 was found on the skin of the bodies or the body bags. One employee (autopsy technician) had possible occupational infection with SARS-CoV-2; all other employees were tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA or antibody twice. Our data indicate that with adequate management of general safety precautions, transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through autopsies and handling of bodies is unlikely.
Aneurysm severity is suppressed by deletion of CCN4
Authors: Williams Helen , Wadey Kerry S. , Frankow Aleksandra , Blythe Hazel C. , Forbes Tessa , Johnson Jason L. , George Sarah J.
Published: June 2021

Patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms are frequently treated with high-risk surgery. A pharmaceutical treatment to reverse aneurysm progression could prevent the need for surgery and save both lives and healthcare resources. Since CCN4 regulates cell migration, proliferation and apoptosis, processes involved in aneurysm progression, it is a potential regulator of aneurysm progression. We investigated the role of CCN4 in a mouse aneurysm model, using apolipoprotein-E knockout (ApoE−/−) mice fed high fat diet and infused with Angiotensin II (AngII). Blood pressure was similarly elevated in CCN4−/−ApoE−/− mice and CCN4+/+ApoE−/− mice (controls) in response to AngII infusion. Deletion of CCN4 significantly reduced the number of ruptured aortae, both thoracic and abdominal aortic area, and aneurysm grade score, compared to controls. Additionally, the frequency of vessel wall remodelling and the number of elastic lamina breaks was significantly suppressed in CCN4−/−ApoE−/− mice compared to controls. Immunohistochemistry revealed a significantly lower proportion of macrophages, while the proportion of smooth muscle cells was not affected by the deletion of CCN4. There was also a reduction in both proliferation and apoptosis in CCN4−/−ApoE−/− mice compared to controls. In vitro studies showed that CCN4 significantly increased monocyte adhesion beyond that seen with TNFα and stimulated macrophage migration by more than threefold. In summary, absence of CCN4 reduced aneurysm severity and improved aortic integrity, which may be the result of reduced macrophage infiltration and cell apoptosis. Inhibition of CCN4 could offer a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of aneurysms.
Message framing, non-conscious perception and effectiveness in non-profit advertising. Contribution by neuromarketing research
Authors: Martinez-Levy Ana C. , Rossi Dario , Cartocci Giulia , Mancini Marco , Di Flumeri Gianluca , Trettel Arianna , Babiloni Fabio , Cherubino Patrizia
Published: June 2021

Advertising for non-profit organizations through television commercials is a valuable means of communication to raise awareness and receive donations. When it comes to social aspects, personal attitudes such as empathy are significant for reinforcing the intention to donate; and the study of eliciting emotions has critical attention in the literature, especially some types of emotion, such as guilt which mediates empathy. Different methodologies have been used to measure consumer emotions when faced with TV ads stimuli: mainly traditional techniques such as interviews or questionnaires after the ads viewing. In the last ten years, there has also been a great interest in new neuroscience techniques applied to measure emotional and cognitive reactions by physiological signals, frame by frame. Our research has applied neuromarketing technologies during the observation of a UNHCR commercial promoting legacy calls. The objective was to study cognitive and emotional reactions in order to increase the effectiveness whilst having the possibility to verify the results by measuring the benefits in terms of calls from contributors. The purpose of this research is to empirically prove the impact in calls thanks to changes in the message framing strategy in non-profit advertising suggested and measured by neuromarketing techniques. Particularly we measured the cerebral activity through an electroencephalogram to obtain an Approach-Withdrawal Index (AW); the heart rate and galvanic skin response through different sensors in the palm of one hand, to obtain an Emotional Index (EI), and finally, eye fixations through an eye tracker device to obtain the visual attention on key visual areas of the ads. After these indicators’ recordings on a sample of subjects, some suggestions to modify the advertising were made to create a more effective campaign. The results compared, those elicited by the first version of the spot (LVE) and those by the second version (HVE), confirmed that (1) the number of sellable and legacy calls increased with the message framing strategy modified in the second spot (HVE), (2) a lower cognitive and emotional reactions have been obtained in the final section of HVE, (3) the visual attention on the key information of the phone number to call, in the final call to action frames(CTA), was higher in HVE than in the first version of the spot (LVE), (4) the cognitive approach increased during the same CTA frames in HVE.
Intergenerational persistence of family formation trajectories among teenage-mothers and -fathers in Sweden
Authors: Kalucza Sara , Vidal Sergi , Nilsson Karina
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we address the questions of whether early family trajectories of parents are reflected in childbearing teenagers, and how socio-economic and family background factors impact these intergenerational correlations. We use within-dyad sequence analysis to examine combined marital and childbearing trajectories, up to age 30, of two generations of a representative sample of childbearing teenagers born between 1975 and 1985 and their progenitors, drawn from the Swedish population register data. We find evidence for within-family persistence of early family trajectories, with better matches across family state sequences for dyads composed of childbearing teenagers and their parents, than for dyads composed of childbearing teenagers and parents of random birth cohort peers. Regression analysis shows that these intergenerational associations are stronger and occur among later-born siblings from non-traditional family backgrounds, and among families with lower socio-economic backgrounds. This study fills gaps in the knowledge of intergenerational family life course dynamics beyond the early parenthood event.
The visual vernacular: embracing photographs in research
Authors: Cleland Jennifer , MacLeod Anna
Published: June 2021

The increasing use of digital images for communication and interaction in everyday life can give a new lease of life to photographs in research. In contexts where smartphones are ubiquitous and many people are “digital natives”, asking participants to share and engage with photographs aligns with their everyday activities and norms more than textual or analogue approaches to data collection. Thus, it is time to consider fully the opportunities afforded by digital images and photographs for research purposes. This paper joins a long-standing conversation in the social science literature to move beyond the “linguistic imperialism” of text and embrace visual methodologies. Our aim is to explain the photograph as qualitative data and introduce different ways of using still images/photographs for qualitative research purposes in health professions education (HPE) research: photo-documentation, photo-elicitation and photovoice, as well as use of existing images. We discuss the strengths of photographs in research, particularly in participatory research inquiry. We consider ethical and philosophical challenges associated with photography research, specifically issues of power, informed consent, confidentiality, dignity, ambiguity and censorship. We outline approaches to analysing photographs. We propose some applications and opportunities for photographs in HPE, before concluding that using photographs opens up new vistas of research possibilities.
Optimal control of system governed by nonlinear volterra integral and fractional derivative equations
Authors: Moradi Leila , Conte Dajana , Farsimadan Eslam , Palmieri Francesco , Paternoster Beatrice
Published: June 2021

This work presents a novel formulation for the numerical solution of optimal control problems related to nonlinear Volterra fractional integral equations systems. A spectral approach is implemented based on the new polynomials known as Chelyshkov polynomials. First, the properties of these polynomials are studied to solve the aforementioned problems. The operational matrices and the Galerkin method are used to discretize the continuous optimal control problems. Thereafter, some necessary conditions are defined according to which the optimal solutions of discrete problems converge to the optimal solution of the continuous ones. The applicability of the proposed approach has been illustrated through several examples. In addition, a comparison is made with other methods for showing the accuracy of the proposed one, resulting also in an improved efficiency.
A multicenter survey of current practices of 99mTc-methoxy-isobutyl-isonitrile (MIBI) imaging for the diagnosis of thyroid nodules: more standardization is essential
Authors: Schenke Simone Agnes , Campenni Alfredo , Tuncel Murat , Piccardo Arnoldo , Sager Sait , Bogovic Crncic Tatjana , Rozic Damir , Goerges Rainer , Özcan Kara Pinar Pelin , Groener Daniel , Hautzel Hubertus , Klett Rigobert , Kreissl Michael Christoph , Giovanella Luca
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Molecular imaging with 99mTc-methoxy-isobutyl-isonitrile (99mTc-MIBI, MIBI) has been used in the assessment of thyroid nodules (TNs) for more than two decades. Many studies showed that MIBI imaging is a suitable tool to rule-out malignancy when negative. However, relatively low specificity and accuracy have been described, thus, limiting its acceptance in clinical practice. Additionally, different technologies, protocols, and interpretation criteria are adopted accounting for heterogeneous data reported in the literature. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to assess the clinical use and methodology of MIBI imaging in patients with nodular thyroid disease in Europe.

Methods

A questionnaire was sent to 12 European centers of Nuclear Medicine. The questionnaire encompassed ultrasound (US) and fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) procedures and their evaluation as well scintigraphy imaging indications, technical procedures, and interpretation criteria of MIBI imaging.

Results

The survey showed a good agreement of different centers in approaching TNs by TSH measurement, US evaluation and 99mTc-pertechnetate thyroid scintigraphy. MIBI imaging is mainly used to assess TNs with inconclusive/indeterminate cytological findings and selection of target nodule(s) for FNAC in patients with multi-nodular goiter. Technical procedures adopted in different centers are globally comparable and the recorded differences are unlikely to impact clinical results. However, as the main result of the present study, substantial differences were found in interpretation criteria adopted in different centers.

Conclusions

Our survey supports the urgent need of standardized interpretation criteria of thyroid MIBI imaging in order to improve its diagnostic performance and make results comparable in clinical practice.
Orthorexia Nervosa and its association with obsessive–compulsive disorder symptoms: initial cross-cultural comparison between Polish and Italian university students
Authors: Brytek-Matera Anna , Pardini Susanna , Modrzejewska Justyna , Modrzejewska Adriana , Szymańska Paulina , Czepczor-Bernat Kamila , Novara Caterina
Published: June 2021

There is limited evidence of a link between Orthorexia Nervosa (ON) and Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and no definitive conclusions can be drawn. The interplay between socio-cultural context and ON has been poorly investigated as well. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were: (1) to investigate the differences in ON and OCD symptoms and (2) to assess the relationship between ON and OCD symptoms among university students. Six hundred and sixty-six university students participated in the present study: 286 from Poland and 320 from Italy. No age, gender and marital status differences were identified between two samples of university students. However, on average, Polish university students had a higher Body Mass Index than Italian ones. Our findings showed that Polish students present more problems related to obsessive symptomatology, core beliefs of OCD, perfectionism traits, and a major ON symptomatology than Italian ones. Also, Polish students with a higher level of ON exhibited higher levels of OCD symptoms and parental expectations/parental criticism. While Italian students with a higher level of ON showed higher levels of perfectionism features (organization and concern over mistakes). In general, correlations were low as confirmation of partial independence ON from OCD symptoms and core beliefs of OCD in both Polish and Italian university students. The present results highlight a need for further investigation of the correlates of ON across different cultural groups. Future research may screen individuals with ON to determine the comorbidity between ON and OCD symptomology to facilitate appropriate treatment choices.

Level of evidence

Level V, Opinions of respected authorities, based on descriptive studies, narrative reviews, clinical experience, or reports of expert committees.
Hybrid evolutionary optimization for takeaway order selection and delivery path planning utilizing habit data
Authors: Zhang Min-Xia , Wu Jia-Yu , Wu Xue , Zheng Yu-Jun
Published: June 2021

The last years have seen a rapid growth of the takeaway delivery market, which has provided a lot of jobs for deliverymen. However, increasing numbers of takeaway orders and the corresponding pickup and service points have made order selection and path planning a key challenging problem to deliverymen. In this paper, we present a problem integrating order selection and delivery path planning for deliverymen, the objective of which is to maximize the revenue per unit time subject to maximum delivery path length, overdue penalty, reward/penalty for large/small number of orders, and high customer scoring reward. Particularly, we consider uncertain order ready time and customer satisfaction level, which are estimated based on historical habit data of stores and customers using a machine-learning approach. To efficiently solve this problem, we propose a hybrid evolutionary algorithm, which adapts the water wave optimization (WWO) metaheuristic to evolve solutions to the main order selection problem and employs tabu search to route the delivery path for each order selection solution. Experimental results on test instances constructed based on real food delivery application data demonstrate the performance advantages of the proposed algorithm compared to a set of popular metaheuristic optimization algorithms.
Potential of a Non-linear Full-Waveform Stacking Technique in Airborne LiDAR Bathymetry
Authors: Mader David , Richter Katja , Westfeld Patrick , Maas Hans-Gerd
Published: June 2021

Airborne LiDAR bathymetry is an efficient measurement method for area-wide acquisition of water bottom topography in shallow water areas. However, the method has a limited penetration depth into water bodies due to water turbidity. This affects the accuracy and reliability of the determination of water bottom points in waters with high turbidity or larger water depths. Furthermore, the coverage of the water bottom topography is also limited. In this contribution, advanced processing methods are presented with the goal of increasing the evaluable water depth, resulting in an improved coverage of the water bottom by measurement points. The methodology moves away from isolated evaluation of individual signals to a determination of water bottom echoes, taking into account information from closely adjacent measurements, assuming that these have similar or correlated characteristics. The basic idea of the new processing approach is the combination of closely adjacent full-waveform data using full-waveform stacking techniques. In contrast to established waveform stacking techniques, we do not apply averaging, which entails low-pass filtering effects, but a modified majority voting technique. This has the effect of amplification of repeating weak characteristics and an improvement of the signal-noise-ratio. As a consequence, it is possible to detect water bottom points that cannot be detected by standard methods. The results confirm an increased penetration water depth by about 27% with a high reliability of the additionally extracted water bottom points along with a larger coverage of the water bottom topography.
Application of the surrogate gradient method for a multi-item single-machine dynamic lot size scheduling problem
Authors: Kobayashi Minoru
Published: June 2021

This study treats a multi-item single-machine dynamic lot size scheduling problem with sequence-independent setup cost and setup time. This problem has various heterogeneous decision features, such as lot sizing and lot sequencing. Traditionally, the problem has been treated by putting artificial constraints on the other feature in order to determine one of them. The proposed model is a Lagrange decomposition and coordination method that aims at simultaneous optimization of these decision features; however, smooth convergence to a feasible near-optimal solution has been a problem. So, in this paper, we propose a model that improves the constraint equation of the existing model and showed that it satisfies the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) condition when we obtained a feasible solution. In addition, by applying the surrogate gradient method, which has never been applied to this problem before, it was shown that smoother convergence than before can be achieved through actual example of printed circuit board.
Natural variation and artificial selection of photoperiodic flowering genes and their applications in crop adaptation
Authors: Lin Xiaoya , Fang Chao , Liu Baohui , Kong Fanjiang
Published: June 2021

Flowering links vegetative growth and reproductive growth and involves the coordination of local environmental cues and plant genetic information. Appropriate timing of floral initiation and maturation in both wild and cultivated plants is important to their fitness and productivity in a given growth environment. The domestication of plants into crops, and later crop expansion and improvement, has often involved selection for early flowering. In this review, we analyze the basic rules for photoperiodic adaptation in several economically important and/or well-researched crop species. The ancestors of rice (Oryza sativa), maize (Zea mays), soybean (Glycine max), and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) are short-day plants whose photosensitivity was reduced or lost during domestication and expansion to high-latitude areas. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) and barley (Hordeum vulgare) are long-day crops whose photosensitivity is influenced by both latitude and vernalization type. Here, we summarize recent studies about where these crops were domesticated, how they adapted to photoperiodic conditions as their growing area expanded from domestication locations to modern cultivating regions, and how allelic variants of photoperiodic flowering genes were selected during this process. A deeper understanding of photoperiodic flowering in each crop will enable better molecular design and breeding of high-yielding cultivars suited to particular local environments.
Sexual Function in Chinese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Correlation with Clinical and Biochemical Characteristics
Authors: Tian Xuanxuan , Ruan Xiangyan , Du Juan , Wang Juan , Yin Dongmei , Cheng Jiaojiao , Ju Rui , Mueck Alfred O.
Published: June 2021

To investigate sexual function in Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to explore the correlation with clinical and biochemical characteristics. A cross-sectional study was designed in 1000 PCOS women, aged 18–45 years, via the Chinese version of Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) evaluating sexual function, with additional questions possibly related to sexual life. Clinical and biochemical characteristics likely to affect sexual function were determined, including anthropometric indicators, serum levels of hormones, luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone ratio (LH/FSH ratio), prolactin (PRL), total testosterone (TT), free androgen index (FAI), sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), glucose, and lipid metabolism indicators. Nine hundred ten PCOS women participated in the study, 685 patients were included after screening, and 211 were suitable to detect correlations of clinical and biochemical characteristics with sex function parameters. The mean total FSFI score was 24.19 ± 2.8; 79.56% of the women were at risk of female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Women doing regular aerobic exercise and use of contraception had higher FSFI scores, while those with a desire to conceive and clinical signs of hyperandrogenism had lower FSFI scores. There were negative associations of FSFI scores with age and body fat distribution. No significant associations between FSFI scores and hormonal factors (surprisingly including SHBG) were found, except for total testosterone and satisfaction (OR = 0.976, p = 0.002). HOMA-IR was significantly related to reduced desire score (OR = 0.914, p = 0.004) and lubrication score (OR = 0.964, p = 0.044). PCOS was associated with a high risk of FSD (defined according to FSFI) in about 80% of the women in our study, and clinical characteristics play a more important role.
Male Sexual Dysfunctions in the Infertile Couple–Recommendations From the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM)
Authors: Capogrosso Paolo , Jensen Christian Fuglesang S. , Rastrelli Giulia , Torremade Josep , Russo Giorgio I. , Raheem Amr Abdel , Frey Anders , Fode Mikkel , Maggi Mario , Reisman Yacov , Bettocchi Carlo , Corona Giovanni
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Sexual dysfunctions (SDs) have been frequently reported among male partners of infertile couples due to psychogenic, relational and/or organic issues related with the inability to conceive. Likewise, male infertility (MI) could be a consequence of sexual dysfunctions.

Aim

To review the evidence on the prevalence and treatment of male SDs in men of infertile couples and provide clinical recommendations on behalf of the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM).

Methods

The MEDLINE database was searched in September 2019 for randomized clinical trials (RCTs), meta-analyses and open-label prospective or retrospective studies investigating the presence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and/or ejaculatory dysfunctions (EjDs) and/or low sexual desire (LSD) in conjunction with infertility.

Main Outcome Measure

The panel provided statements on: (i) Prevalence and association between SDs and MI; (ii) Treatment of male SDs in men of infertile couples.

Results

ED has been reported in 9% to 62% of male partners of infertile couples, with severe impairment observed in only 1% to 3% of ED cases. Moreover, worse semen parameters have been associated with greater ED severity. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5is) can be safely used to treat ED among patients seeking fatherhood. Male partners of infertile couples are at higher risk of premature ejaculation (PE). Retrograde ejaculation (RE) and anejaculation are a cause of MI and can be managed with electroejaculation (EEJ) or penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) or, alternatively, with oral treatments, however the latter with limited documented success. Low sexual desire has been reported by one third of men of infertile couples.

Conclusion

ED could significantly affect male partners of infertile couple; PDE5is should be suggested to ensure an effective and satisfactory sexual relationship of the couple. Anejaculation and RE should be considered as a possible cause of MI and treated accordingly. Low sexual desire is frequently reported among men of infertile couple and could be a symptom of other systemic conditions or psychological distress.
Mark Twain under Fire
Authors: Fulton Joe B.
Published: June 2021

Tracks the genesis and evolution of Twain's reputation as a writer, revealing how and why the writer has been under fire 'since the advent of his career.'
Annual cycle of growth and population structure of the estuarine crabHemigrapsus crenulatus(Brachyura: Varunidae) off central Chile
Authors: Riquelme-Bugueño Ramiro A. , Luppi Tomás , Saldías Gonzalo S. , Lagos Marcelo E. , Urbina Mauricio A. , Retamal Marco A.
Published: June 2021

Estuaries and saltmarshes play a fundamental role in the life cycle of many crab species. Diverse studies show that temperature and salinity modulate abundance, size frequency distribution (SFD), sex ratio and growth in crustaceans. These population parameters are usually challenging to estimate due to the high environmental variability of estuaries. Monthly samples of the estuarine crabHemigrapsus crenulatuswere taken from October 2003 to October 2004 (except July 2004) in the Tubul estuary, central Chile. We quantified temporal changes in abundance, size distribution, sex ratio and monthly growth through the annual cycle. A total of 1025 individuals were collected. Sizes ranged from 7.72–33.51 mm carapace length (CL) with a growth rate ranging between 2.13–30.5% mm CL mo−1. Size and growth rates were greater in spring-summer, suggesting a faster growth of younger crabs correlated with increasing sea temperatures in the austral summer. Overall, sex ratio was 1.75:1 in favour of males. Modal analysis identified at least seven cohorts cohabiting throughout the annual cycle. Growth parameters for males and females were the following, respectively:L∞ = 33.6 and 29.6,k= 0.69 and 0.91,t0= –0.39 and −0.28. Changes in size distribution suggested a recruitment period during autumn and winter seasons when there are lower salinities and temperature fluctuations stresses. Generalized linear models indicated that sea temperature, salinity and chlorophyll were the environmental variables that better predicted the annual patterns in the population structure.