bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical features and long‐term management of cats with primary hypoadrenocorticism using desoxycorticosterone pivalate and prednisolone
Authors: Sieber‐Ruckstuhl Nadja S. , Harburger Livia , Hofer Natalie , Kümmerle Claudia , Müller Claudia , Riond Barbara , Hofmann‐Lehmann Regina , Reusch Claudia E. , Boretti Felicitas S.
Published: February 2023

Background

Primary hypoadrenocorticism (PH) is rare in cats and knowledge about treatment is sparse.

Objective

To describe cats with PH with a focus on long‐term treatment.

Animals

Eleven cats with naturally occurring PH.

Methods

Descriptive case series with data on signalment, clinicopathological findings, adrenal width, and doses of desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP) and prednisolone during a follow‐up period of >12 months.

Results

Cats ranged from 2 to 10 years (median 6.5); 6 cats were British Shorthair. Most common signs were reduced general condition and lethargy, anorexia, dehydration, obstipation, weakness, weight loss, and hypothermia. Adrenal glands on ultrasonography were judged small in 6. Eight cats could be followed for 14 to 70 months (median: 28). Two were started on DOCP doses ≥2.2 mg/kg (2.2; 2.5) and 6 < 2.2 mg/kg (1.5‐2.0 mg/kg, median 1.8) q28 days. Both high‐dose cats and 4 low‐dose cats needed a dose increase. Desoxycorticosterone pivalate and prednisolone doses at the end of the follow‐up period were 1.3 to 3.0 mg/kg (median: 2.3) and 0.08 to 0.5 mg/kg/day (median: 0.3), respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Desoxycorticosterone pivalate and prednisolone requirements in cats were higher than what is currently used in dogs; thus, a DOCP starting dose of 2.2 mg/kg q28 days and a prednisolone maintenance dose of 0.3 mg/kg/day titrated to the individual need seems warranted. Small adrenal glands (width < 2.7 mm) on ultrasonography in a cat suspected of hypoadrenocorticism can be suggestive of the disease. The apparent predilection of British Shorthaired cats for PH should be further evaluated.
The Pacific Alliance and its influence on South American regionalism
Authors: de Souza Borba Gonçalves Julia
Published: February 2023

When the Pacific Alliance was created in 2011, its proposal to reestablish open regionalism led to a debate on the fragmentation of regional integration and the Atlantic–Pacific divide. A decade later, Latin American regionalism is under stress, but the Pacific Alliance is not. Moreover, regionalism in South America displays features that are observed in the Pacific Alliance. From a constructivist framework, this article analyzes how the ideas from the Pacific Alliance shaped the early development of Prosur, highlighting the role of Chile, Colombia, and Peru in influencing South American regionalism. This article aims to contribute to debates on the future of Latin American regionalism by stressing how the Pacific Alliance influences regionalism, dispelling the idea that it is a mere trade bloc, and showing how it consolidates the Bogotá–Lima‐Santiago  axis in South American regionalism. It sheds light on the relevance of this regional bloc in political terms and on the agency capacity (achievements and limits) of Colombia, Peru, and Chile in setting a regional agenda.
Subclinical liver traits are associated with structural and hemodynamic brain imaging markers
Authors: Yilmaz Pinar , Alferink Louise J. M. , Cremers Lotte G. M. , Murad Sarwa D. , Niessen Wiro J. , Ikram M. Arfan , Vernooij Meike W.
Published: February 2023

Background & Aims

Impaired liver function affects brain health and therefore understanding potential mechanisms for subclinical liver disease is essential. We assessed the liver–brain associations using liver measures with brain imaging markers, and cognitive measures in the general population.

Methods

Within the population‐based Rotterdam Study, liver serum and imaging measures (ultrasound and transient elastography), metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and fibrosis phenotypes, and brain structure were determined in 3493 non‐demented and stroke‐free participants in 2009–2014. This resulted in subgroups of n = 3493 for MAFLD (mean age 69 ± 9 years, 56% ♀), n = 2938 for NAFLD (mean age 70 ± 9 years, 56% ♀) and n = 2252 for fibrosis (mean age 65 ± 7 years, 54% ♀). Imaging markers of small vessel disease and neurodegeneration, cerebral blood flow (CBF) and brain perfusion (BP) were acquired from brain MRI (1.5‐tesla). General cognitive function was assessed by Mini‐Mental State Examination and the g‐factor. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used for liver‐brain associations and adjusted for age, sex, intracranial volume, cardiovascular risk factors and alcohol use.

Results

Higher gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels were significantly associated with smaller total brain volume (TBV, standardized mean difference (SMD), −0.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.03 to −0.01); p = 8.4·10−4), grey matter volumes, and lower CBF and BP. Liver serum measures were not related to small vessel disease markers, nor to white matter microstructural integrity or general cognition. Participants with ultrasound‐based liver steatosis had a higher fractional anisotropy (FA, SMD 0.11, 95% CI (0.04 to 0.17), p = 1.5·10−3) and lower CBF and BP. MAFLD and NAFLD phenotypes were associated with alterations in white matter microstructural integrity (NAFLD ~ FA, SMD 0.14, 95% CI (0.07 to 0.22), p = 1.6·10−4; NAFLD ~ mean diffusivity, SMD −0.12, 95% CI (−0.18 to −0.05), p = 4.7·10−4) and also with lower CBF and BP (MAFLD ~ CBF, SMD −0.13, 95% CI (−0.20 to −0.06), p = 3.1·10−4; MAFLD ~ BP, SMD −0.12, 95% CI (−0.20 to −0.05), p = 1.6·10−3). Furthermore, fibrosis phenotypes were related to TBV, grey and white matter volumes.

Conclusions

Presence of liver steatosis, fibrosis and elevated serum GGT are associated with structural and hemodynamic brain markers in a population‐based cross‐sectional setting. Understanding the hepatic role in brain changes can target modifiable factors and prevent brain dysfunction.
Molecular insights into the dynamics of species invasion by hybridisation in Tasmanian eucalypts
Authors: Pfeilsticker Thais R. , Jones Rebecca C. , Steane Dorothy A. , Vaillancourt René E. , Potts Brad M.
Published: February 2023

In plants where seed dispersal is limited compared with pollen dispersal, hybridisation may enhance gene exchange and species dispersal. We provide genetic evidence of hybridisation contributing to the expansion of the rare Eucalyptus risdonii into the range of the widespread Eucalyptus amygdalina. These closely related tree species are morphologically distinct, and observations suggest that natural hybrids occur along their distribution boundaries and as isolated trees or in small patches within the range of E. amygdalina. Hybrid phenotypes occur outside the range of normal dispersal for E. risdonii seed, yet in some hybrid patches small individuals resembling E. risdonii occur and are hypothesised to be a result of backcrossing. Using 3362 genome‐wide SNPs assessed from 97 individuals of E. risdonii and E. amygdalina and 171 hybrid trees, we show that (i) isolated hybrids match the genotypes expected of F1/F2 hybrids, (ii) there is a continuum in the genetic composition among the isolated hybrid patches from patches dominated by F1/F2‐like genotypes to those dominated by E. risdonii‐backcross genotypes, and (iii) the E. risdonii‐like phenotypes in the isolated hybrid patches are most‐closely related to proximal larger hybrids. These results suggest that the E. risdonii phenotype has been resurrected in isolated hybrid patches established from pollen dispersal, providing the first steps in its invasion of suitable habitat by long‐distance pollen dispersal and complete introgressive displacement of E. amygdalina. Such expansion accords with the population demographics, common garden performance data, and climate modelling which favours E. risdonii and highlights a role of interspecific hybridisation in climate change adaptation and species expansion.
Resveratrol for preventing medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws in rats
Authors: Vitale Marcelo , Corrêa Mônica Grazieli , Ervolino Edilson , Cirano Fabiano Ribeiro , Ribeiro Fernanda Vieira , Monteiro Mabelle Freitas , Casati Marcio Zaffalon , Pimentel Suzana Peres
Published: February 2023

This study evaluated the effect of resveratrol (RES) on the prevention of medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) in ovariectomized (OVX) rats treated with zoledronate (ZOL). Fifty rats were distributed in five groups: SHAM (n = 10): non‐ovariectomy + placebo; OVX (n = 10):ovariectomy + placebo; OVX + RES (n = 10):ovariectomy + resveratrol; OVX + ZOL (n = 10):ovariectomy + placebo + zoledronate; and OVX + RES + ZOL (n = 10):ovariectomy + resveratrol + zoledronate. The mandibles left sides were analyzed with micro‐CT, histomorphometry, and immunohistochemistry. On the right side, bone markers gene expression was analyzed by qPCR. ZOL increased the percentage of necrotic bone and reduced the neo‐formed bone compared to groups not receiving ZOL (p < 0.05). RES impacted the tissue healing pattern in OVX + ZOL + RES, reduced inflammatory cell infiltrate, and improved bone formation in the extraction site. Osteoblasts, alkaline phosphatase (ALP)‐, and osteocalcin (OCN)‐immunoreactive cells were lower in OVX‐ZOL than in SHAM, OVX, and OVX‐RES. The OXV‐ZOL‐RES had fewer osteoblasts and ALP‐ and OCN‐cells than the SHAM and OVX‐RES. The tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive cells were reduced in the presence of ZOL (p < 0.05), while the TRAP mRNA levels increased with ZOL treatment, with or without resveratrol, compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). RES alone increased superoxide dismutase levels compared to OVX + ZOL and OVX + ZOL + RES (p < 0.05). In conclusion, resveratrol reduced the tissue impairment severity induced by ZOL; however, it could not prevent the occurrence of MRONJ.
Liver transplantation for alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1ATD) using a heterozygous donor: Outcomes and review of the literature
Authors: Sood Vikrant , Lee Eliza J. , Raghu Vikram , Reyes‐Mugica Miguel , Salgado Claudia M. , Squires James , Mazariegos George
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1ATD) accounts for 21% of all pediatric liver transplants due to metabolic disease in the western world. Donor heterozygosity has been evaluated in adults but not to a recipient with A1ATD.

Methods

The data of patient were retrospectively analyzed and a literature review performed.

Results

We present a unique case of living related donation from a A1ATD heterozygote female to a child for decompensated cirrhosis due to A1ATD. In the immediate postoperative period, the child had low‐alpha 1 antitrypsin levels, but these normalized by 3 months posttransplant. He is currently 19 months post‐transplant with no evidence of recurrent disease.

Conclusion

Our case provides initial evidence that A1ATD heterozygote donors may be safely used for pediatric patients with A1ATD, thus expanding the donor pool.
The economic drivers of political time
Authors: Taylor Mark Zachary
Published: February 2023

Skowronek's theory of “political time” posits that presidential success follows historical cycles, but it does not specify a unique causal mechanism. Each president merely reacts to their predecessor or to historical circumstance. Scholars of “political time” also suggest that the power of history may be diminishing over time. This article uses theory and evidence to address the causality issue in both instances. First, it shows that economic crises drive political time forward. Second, it argues that recent political commitments to a combination of New Deal and Reaganite ideas and policies have been used to attenuate economic crises. Hence, it is not that the power of history has waned. Rather, the causal nature of political time has been under‐specified.
EEG and pupillometric signatures of working memory overload
Authors: Kosachenko Alexandra I. , Kasanov Dauren , Kotyusov Alexander I. , Pavlov Yuri G.
Published: February 2023

Understanding the physiological correlates of cognitive overload has implications for gauging the limits of human cognition, developing novel methods to define cognitive overload, and mitigating the negative outcomes associated with overload. Most previous psychophysiological studies manipulated verbal working memory load in a narrow range (an average load of 5 items). It is unclear, however, how the nervous system responds to a working memory load exceeding typical capacity limits. The objective of the current study was to characterize the central and autonomic nervous system changes associated with memory overload, by means of combined recording of electroencephalogram (EEG) and pupillometry. Eighty‐six participants were presented with a digit span task involving the serial auditory presentation of items. Each trial consisted of sequences of either 5, 9, or 13 digits, each separated by 2 s. Both theta activity and pupil size, after the initial rise, expressed a pattern of a short plateau and a decrease with reaching the state of memory overload, indicating that pupil size and theta possibly have similar neural mechanisms. Based on the described above triphasic pattern of pupil size temporal dynamics, we concluded that cognitive overload causes physiological systems to reset, and release effort. Although memory capacity limits were exceeded and effort was released (as indicated by pupil dilation), alpha continued to decrease with increasing memory load. These results suggest that associating alpha with the focus of attention and distractor suppression is not warranted.
Impact of intrauterine infusion ofPlatelets‐Richplasma on endometritis and reproductive performance of Arabian mare
Authors: Ghallab Rezk S. , El‐beskawy Mohamed , El‐Shereif Abdelghany A. , Rashad Amr M. A. , Elbehiry Mohamed A.
Published: February 2023

Equine endometritis is one of the most common causes of reproduction failure. To achieve better treatment outcomes, different diagnostic methods should be combined. In the current study, 39 repeat breeder mares were subjected to ultrasonography examination to detect excessive accumulation of intrauterine fluids and an abnormal oedema pattern, which revealed that 61.5% of mares were positive. Combined with endometrial cytology by low‐volume uterine flush, 47.7% of smears contain neutrophils (more than 2–3 per HPF X100), and microbial culture. 92.3% of mares were infected with different bacterial isolates, such asEscherichia coli, Streptococci, Staphylococcus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Citrobacter freundii, Providencia alcalifaciens,andProteus mirabilis. All mares were given saline solution and gravity withdrawal before being given 20 IU of oxytocin (as ecbolic agents). Mares were divided into three groups; Group one (n = 15) received an intrauterine infusion of 20 mL of freshly prepared autologous platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) 6 h after breeding, Group two (n = 15) was treated with three doses of systemic Enrofloxacin 5% during the estrus period, and Group three (n = 9) received only uterine lavage and 20 IU of oxytocin. PRP and Enrofloxacin resulted in a significant (p < .05) reduction in endometrial thickness (oedema; 5.05 and 6.74 mm, respectively) and disappearance of intrauterine fluids compared to the control (10.98 mm). Furthermore, PRP (days) and Enrofloxacin (17.89 days) reduced the days to the next oestrus compared to the control (18.58 and 17.89 vs. 21.19 days, respectively). Furthermore, the pregnancy rate improved to reach 70% in the PRP group and 60% in the Enrofloxacin group, while the control remained low at 22%. In conclusion, autologous PRP can be used as a low‐cost alternative therapy for modulating the inflammatory process and effectively treating mares' endometritis.
Listening to the Soviet Union’s “Silent” Majority: The Evasion of Labor Obligations on the Home Front, 1941–45
Authors: Khlevniuk Oleg
Published: February 2023

Large‐scale evasion of the requirements of the law is a substantial part of the interaction between citizen and state under authoritarian regimes. Forced to exist within a coordinate grid established against their will, people routinely play games with the state with the goal of minimizing the hardships of life. Tactics of covert resistance are not necessarily politically motivated by conscious opposition to the regime. Instead, these are a matter of accommodation and survival. It is precisely these popular illegalities that, paradoxically, do not so much weaken a system intended to achieve full implementation of its instructions, but instead strengthen it to a certain degree. Evasion serves as a safeguard against social burnout, replete with unpredictable reactions born of desperation. This article examines practices of mass illegality via examples of evasion of labor obligations in the Soviet Union during the war with Nazi Germany. It analyzes instances that primarily involved peasants, especially women, who predominated in the Soviet rear areas after the men were conscripted into the army. This discriminated‐against and uneducated majority rarely enters historians’ field of vision, which concentrates on the diaries and memoirs of the educated, urban part of the Soviet population.
The roots of inequality: estimating inequality of opportunity from regression trees and forests*
Authors: Brunori Paolo , Hufe Paul , Mahler Daniel
Published: February 2023

We propose the use of machine learning methods to estimate inequality of opportunity and to illustrate that regression trees and forests represent a substantial improvement over existing approaches: they reduce the risk of ad hoc model selection and trade off upward and downward bias in inequality of opportunity estimates. The advantages of regression trees and forests are illustrated by an empirical application for a cross‐section of 31 European countries. We show that arbitrary model selection might lead to significant biases in inequality of opportunity estimates relative to our preferred method. These biases are reflected in both point estimates and country rankings.
Is anybody there? A longitudinal examination of help‐seeking and suicidal risk among Latino, Black, andnon‐Hispanicwhite adolescents
Authors: De Luca Susan , Yan Yueqi , O'Donnell Kari
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Understanding adolescents' and emerging adults' help‐seeking behaviors is important to curb suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB), especially among racial/ethnic minorities who have some of the highest chronic rates of STB in the United States. Learning how diverse groups of adolescents seek help during emotional crises can help us understand the stark health disparities related to suicide risk and respond to them in culturally informed ways.

Methods

The study observed adolescents via a nationally representative sample (n = 20,745) over 14 years (National Longitudinal Study of Adolescents to Adult Health [Add Health]) to examine the association between help‐seeking behaviors and STB. Longitudinal multinomial logistic regressions were run to assess for racial/ethnic and gender disparities.

Results

Help‐seeking was not protective for Black female STB but alternatively was protective for each male group (non‐Hispanic white, Black, and Latino). Latinas in their early‐to‐late 20s with no self‐reported STB were at an extremely high risk of suicide attempts just 6 years later.

Conclusions

This is the first study to examine race/ethnicity*gender in six independent groups to assess suicidality longitudinally among a nationally representative sample. Tailoring existing interventions to meet the needs of growing and diverse communities is critical for suicide prevention programs and policies.
(L)earning: Exploring the value of paid roles for medical students
Authors: Callaghan Jonathan P. , Freimane Katrina Z. , Kearney Grainne P. , Hart Nigel D.
Published: February 2023

Background

The Medical Student Technician (MST) role is a paid position established in Northern Ireland in 2020. The Experience‐Based Learning (ExBL) model is a contemporary medical education pedagogy advocating supported participation to develop capabilities important for doctors‐to‐be. In this study, we used the ExBL model to explore the experiences of MSTs and how the role contributed to students' professional development and preparedness for practice.

Methods

A convenience sampling strategy was used to recruit a total of 17 MSTs in three focus groups. Semi‐structured interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using the ExBL model as a framework. Transcripts were independently analysed and coded by two investigators and discrepancies resolved with the remaining investigators.

Results

The MST experiences reflected the various components of the ExBL model. Students valued earning a salary; however, what students earned transcended the financial reward alone. This professional role enabled students to meaningfully contribute to patient care and have authentic interactions with patients and staff. This fostered a sense of feeling valued and increased self‐efficacy amongst MSTs, helping them acquire various practical, intellectual and affective capabilities and subsequently demonstrate an increased confidence in their identities as future doctors.

Conclusion

Paid clinical roles for medical students could present useful adjuncts to traditional clinical placements, benefiting both students and potentially healthcare systems. The practice‐based learning experiences described appear to be underpinned by a novel social context where students can add value, be and feel valued and gain valuable capabilities that better prepare them for starting work as a doctor.
Products Distribution and Synergistic Effects Analysis During Co-Pyrolysis of Agricultural Residues and Waste Tire Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wang Zhiwei , Chen Yan , Chen Gaofeng , Sun Tanglei , Zhang Mengju , Wang Qun , Wu Mengge , Guo Shuaihua , Yang Shuhua , Lei Tingzhou , Burra Kiran G. , Gupta Ashwani K.
Published: February 2023

The co-thermal chemical conversion of biomass and waste tires is an important direction for the utilization of waste resources to produce renewable energy. In this study, the product distribution and synergistic effects during the co-pyrolysis of agricultural residues and waste tire were analyzed by a pyrolyzer coupled with a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (Py-GC/MS). Pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis products were analyzed at 550 °C and 650 °C for maize stalk (MS), wheat straw (WS), waste tire (WT) feedstocks, as well as mixtures of wheat straw-waste tire (WS:WT mass ratio of 1:1), and maize stalk-waste tire (MS:WT mass ratio of 1:1). The results showed that the co-pyrolysis of agricultural residues and waste tire promoted the release of phenols, aldehydes, and ketone derivatives, and reduced the formation of H2 and H2O. In addition, a relatively high content of aromatic hydrocarbons was obtained at 650 °C temperature, while 550 °C was optimal when considering the formation of ketones. The results showed a synergistic effect in the co-pyrolysis of biomass and waste tire.
Parameters Influencing the Accuracy of a Wrist Photoplethysmography Heart-Rate Monitor (Polar Unite) During Exercise
Authors: Bretonneau Quentin , Peruque-Gayou Etienne , Wolfs Etienne , Bosquet Laurent
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The accuracy of heart rate measured with a wrist photoplethysmography monitor can be influenced by the tightening of the wristband, movement of arms, or kinetics of the signal (eg, steady-state exercise vs on- and off-transients). To test these hypotheses, photoplethysmographic and electrocardiographic (ECG) signals were compared. Methods: Thirty participants (50% female) randomly performed two 13′ sequences (3′ rest, 5′ submaximal-intensity exercise, and 5′ passive recovery) on a motorized treadmill and a bicycle ergometer. Heart rate was measured concomitantly with a 10-lead ECG, a chest-strap monitor, and 2 wrist photoplethysmography monitors (Polar Unite) with different tightening (free vs imposed at the maximum tolerable). Results: The level of association (r) and coefficient of variation (CV; ie, the error of measurement) of the Polar Unite versus the 10-lead ECG is affected by the tightness of the wristband (normal vs high; r = .83 and .96, CV = 16.1 and 8.1% for the treadmill, respectively; r = .71 and .97, CV = 20.3% and 6.2% for the bicycle, respectively) by the phase of the signal (transition vs steady state; r = .90 and .97, CV = 9.0% and 7.6% for the treadmill, respectively; r = .93 and .99, CV = 7.5% and 3.1% for the bicycle, respectively) and movement of arms (treadmill vs bicycle; r = .90 and .93, CV = 9.0% and 7.5% during the transition phase, respectively; r = .97 and .99, CV = 7.6% and 3.1% during the steady-state phase, respectively). Conclusion: The accuracy of heart rate measured with a wrist photoplethysmography monitor is affected by the tightness of the wristband and the phase of the signal. A high tightening is required when high accuracy is expected.
Does the Degree and/or Direction of Handedness in Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder Influence Motor and Cognitive Performance? A Pilot Study
Authors: Schott Nadja
Published: February 2023

Research has shown that nonright-handedness in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is associated with poorer motor and cognitive performance. This study investigated the influence of degree and direction of handedness on performance using the Home Handedness Questionnaire, the Hit-the-Dot test, the Movement Assessment Battery for Children, and the digital Trail-Making Test. Eighteen children with DCD and 21 typically developing children aged 8–12 years participated in this study. The distribution of degree and direction of handedness in the group of DCD children were not different from that found in the typically developing group. In the Hit-the-Dot test, typically developing children significantly performed better than children with DCD, no matter which hand was dominant or to which degree. A significant inconsistent-handed advantage in the subdomain balance was found for children with DCD. Inconsistent handedness also seems to be an advantage for children with DCD on the digital Trail-Making Test performance. The relationship between the subcategories of the Movement Assessment Battery for Children and the digital Trail-Making Test part B is stronger for consistent than for inconsistent handedness. Our findings suggest that children with DCD and inconsistent handedness might benefit from greater crosstalk across hemispheres. In addition, these predispositions can be reinforced or discouraged throughout development and via occupational therapy.
“I Thought It Was Going to Be Trash”: Rural High School Students’ Disability-Related Perception Change Following Paralympic School Day
Authors: McKay Cathy , Kirk T.N. , Leake Marie
Published: February 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe and understand the experiences and impact of the Paralympic School Day program on disability-related perceptions of rural high school students. Methods: Ninth- and tenth-grade physical education classes from a rural high school participated in the Paralympic School Day event. Of the 68 who attended the event, 42 students furnished assent and consent to participate. Data from reflective writing responses were analyzed inductively using a three-step approach. Findings: The analysis revealed three interrelated themes: (a) “I didn’t expect it to be fun”: preconceptions and reality of trying parasport, (b) “Anyone can play a sport”: developing new perceptions of disability, and (c) “I never realized how blessed I was”: persistence of ableist framing. Discussion: As a result of participants interacting with and learning from athletes with physical disabilities, they developed an understanding of parasport and a new paradigm through which to view individuals with disabilities.
Fungal Integrated Histomolecular Diagnosis Using Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing on Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Tissues
Authors: Trecourt Alexis , Rabodonirina Meja , Mauduit Claire , Traverse-Glehen Alexandra , Devouassoux-Shisheboran Mojgan , Meyronet David , Dijoud Frédérique , Ginevra Christophe , Chapey-Picq Emmanuelle , Josse Emilie , Martins-Simoes Patricia , Bentaher Abderrazzak , Dupont Damien , Miossec Charline , Persat Florence , Wallon Martine , Ferry Tristan , Pham Félix , Simon Bruno , Menotti Jean
Published: February 2023

Histopathology is the gold standard for fungal infection (FI) diagnosis, but it does not provide a genus and/or species identification. The objective of the present study was to develop targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) on formalin-fixed tissue samples (FTs) to achieve a fungal integrated histomolecular diagnosis.
Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals the Resistance Mechanism and the Pathogens Causing Root Rot of
Coptis chinensis
Authors: Song Xuhong , Mei Pengying , Dou Tao , Liu Qundong , Li Longyun
Published: February 2023

Root rot disease significantly reduces the medicinal quality of
Coptis chinensis
. In the present study, results found that the
C. chinensis
fibrous and taproot have different tactics in response to rot pathogen infection.
Diaporthe eres
,
Fusarium
avenaceum
, and
Fusarium solani
were isolated and identified to cause different degrees of
C. chinensis
root rot. These results are helpful for researchers to further explore the mechanism of resistance to rhizoma Coptis root rot.
The effectiveness and sustainability of peer support interventions for persons living with HIV: a realist synthesis
Authors: Han Shuyu , Zhang Yizhu , Yang Xianxia , Chai Xinru , Guo Jinzheng , Zhang Lili , Shao Ying , Ma Jianhong , Li Ke , Wang Zhiwen
Published: February 2023

Background

Peer support is an important supplement to medical resources for persons living with HIV (PLHIV). However, previous studies have shown mixed results about intervention effects. It is necessary to explain the mechanism of peer support interventions’ effectiveness and sustainability to help design more valid peer support interventions.

Objective

To identify and explain the mechanisms that drive the effectiveness and maintain the sustainability of peer support interventions.

Methods

A preliminary theoretical framework was developed through a scoping review of the grey literature and international project frameworks in five professional websites. We then refined the framework by systematically searching evidence in databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, ProQuest, CINAHL, CNKI and Wanfang. Qualitative methods were used to generate codes and themes relating to the studies’ context, mechanisms and outcomes. We checked chains of inference (connections) across extracted data and themes through an iterative process.

Results

A total of 6345 articles were identified, and 52 articles were retained for final synthesis. The refined theoretical framework presents five areas of peer support, including informational support, instrumental support, emotional support, affiliational support and appraisal support; five types of outcomes that peer support can improve for PLHIV, including physiological outcomes, psychological outcomes, behavioural outcomes, cognitive outcomes and social outcomes; the effectiveness mechanism coding system from peer volunteers and the relationship between peer volunteers and PLHIV; and the sustainability mechanism coding system in terms of peer volunteers, PLHIV and study context.

Conclusions

Given that peer support has huge potential human resources, that is, all the qualified PLHIV, irreplaceable advantages in dealing with barriers to HIV-related discrimination and potential comprehensive benefits for PLHIV, it is necessary to develop and organise more peer support projects for PLHIV. Our study highlights that the expansion of peer support projects should be based on their effectiveness and sustainability.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022339079.
Lattice vibrations of the face-centered square and edge-centered square lattices
Authors: Al-Banawi O. , Owaidat M. Q. , Chair N.
Published: February 2023

The lattice dynamics of face-centered square and edge-centered square lattice structures is classically examined using the harmonic approximation between atoms. The dynamical matrices and dispersion relations for the two lattice structures are derived. The eigenfrequencies are presented numerically. At long wavelengths, the acoustic branches and corresponding group and phase velocities are obtained.
Digital Neuropathy by Hypertrophy and Hyperplasia of Pacinian Corpuscle – Usefulness of Microscopic Resection
Authors: KOBAYASHI Masato , MURAMATSU Keiichi , TANI Yasuhiro , MAGTOTO Ian Jason
Published: February 2023

We present a patient with Pacinian corpuscle hypertrophy and hyperplasia in the hand and discuss the diagnosis and treatment of this rare condition. A 46-year-old woman presented with radiating pain of the left middle finger. A strong Tinel-like sign was elicited between the index and middle fingers. The patient frequently used mobile phone, with the corner of the phone consistently applying pressure on the palm. The surgery was carried out under the microscope and two enlarged cystic lesions under the epineurium were found in the proper digital nerve. Histologic examination revealed hypertrophied Pacinian corpuscle with normal structure. Postoperatively, her symptoms gradually improved. Preoperative diagnosis of this disease is very difficult. Hand surgeons should keep this disease in mind preoperatively. In our case, we would not have been able to identify multiple hypertrophic Pacinian corpuscles without the microscope. An operating microscope is recommended in a surgery of this nature.

Level of Evidence: Level V (Therapeutic)
AMC: Adaptive Multi-expert Collaborative Network for Text-guided Image Retrieval
Authors: Zhu Hongguang , Wei Yunchao , Zhao Yao , Zhang Chunjie , Huang Shujuan
Published: February 2023

Text-guided image retrieval integrates reference image and text feedback as a multimodal query to search the image corresponding to user intention. Recent approaches employ multi-level matching, multiple accesses, or multiple subnetworks for better performance regardless of the heavy burden of storage and computation in the deployment. Additionally, these models not only rely on expert knowledge to handcraft image-text composing modules but also do inference by the static computational graph. It limits the representation capability and generalization ability of networks in the face of challenges from complex and varied combinations of reference image and text feedback. To break the shackles of the static network concept, we introduce the dynamic router mechanism to achieve data-dependent expert activation and flexible collaboration of multiple experts to explore more implicit multimodal fusion patterns. Specifically, we construct AMC, our
A
daptive
M
ulti-expert
C
ollaborative network, by using the proposed router to activate the different experts with different levels of image-text interaction. Since routers can dynamically adjust the activation of experts for the current samples, AMC can achieve the adaptive fusion mode for the different reference image and text combinations and generate dynamic computational graphs according to varied multimodal queries. Extensive experiments on two benchmark datasets demonstrate that due to benefits from the image-text composing representation produced by an adaptive multi-expert collaboration mechanism, AMC has better retrieval performance and zero-shot generalization ability than the state-of-the-art method while keeping the lightweight model and fast retrieval speed. Moreover, we analyze the visualization of path activation, attention map, and retrieval results to further understand the routing decisions and semantic localization ability of AMC. The codes and pretrained models are available at
https://github.com/KevinLight831/AMC
.
A Generalized Deep Learning Clustering Algorithm Based on Non-Negative Matrix Factorization
Authors: Wang Dexian , Li Tianrui , Deng Ping , Zhang Fan , Huang Wei , Zhang Pengfei , Liu Jia
Published: February 2023

Clustering is a popular research topic in the field of data mining, in which the clustering method based on non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) has been widely employed. However, in the update process of NMF, there is no learning rate to guide the update as well as the update depends on the data itself, which leads to slow convergence and low clustering accuracy. To solve these problems, a generalized deep learning clustering (GDLC) algorithm based on NMF is proposed in this article. Firstly, a nonlinear constrained NMF (NNMF) algorithm is constructed to achieve sequential updates of the elements in the matrix guided by the learning rate. Then, the gradient values corresponding to the element update are transformed into generalized weights and generalized biases, by inputting the elements as well as their corresponding generalized weights and generalized biases into the nonlinear activation function to construct the GDLC algorithm. In addition, for improving the understanding of the GDLC algorithm, its detailed inference procedure and algorithm design are provided. Finally, the experimental results on eight datasets show that the GDLC algorithm has efficient performance.
CS202X and SEP-KA Update
Authors: Blumenthal Richard
Published: February 2023

In a nutshell, CS202X refers to the current effort to revise the curricular guidelines for undergraduate degree programs in computer science. These revisions are being managed by a Steering Committe comprised of representatives from the ACM, IEEE-Computer Society, and AAAI. Following the previous curricular revisions in 2001 (CS'01) and 2013 (CS'13), the proposed guidelines are broadly partitioned into categories referred to as Knowledge Areas (KAs). Each KA has an associated sub-committee consisting of a Chair and members from the Steering Committee, as well as subject matter experts from the computing community. SEP refers to the Society, Ethics, and Profesionalism KA within the proposed CS202X curricular report.
Critical Device Reliability Assessment in Healthcare Services
Authors: Abd Rahman Noorul Husna , Ibrahim Ayman Khallel , Hasikin Khairunnisa , Abd Razak Nasrul Anuar
Published: February 2023

Medical device reliability is the ability of medical devices to endure functioning and is indispensable to ensure service delivery to patients. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) technique was employed in May 2021 to evaluate existing reporting guidelines on medical device reliability. The systematic searching is conducted in eight different databases, including Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus, IEEE Explorer, Emerald, MEDLINE Complete, Dimensions, and Springer Link, with 36 articles shortlisted from the year 2010 to May 2021. This study aims to epitomize existing literature on medical device reliability, scrutinize existing literature outcomes, investigate parameters affecting medical device reliability, and determine the scientific research gaps. The result of the systematic review listed three main topics on medical device reliability: risk management, performance prediction using Artificial Intelligence or machine learning, and management system. The medical device reliability assessment challenges are inadequate maintenance cost data, determining significant input parameter selection, difficulties accessing healthcare facilities, and limited age in service. Medical device systems are interconnected and interoperating, which increases complexity in assessing their reliability. To the best of our knowledge, although machine learning has become popular in predicting medical device performance, the existing models are only applicable to selected devices such as infant incubators, syringe pumps, and defibrillators. Despite the importance of medical device reliability assessment, there is no explicit protocol and predictive model to anticipate the situation. The problem worsens with the unavailability of a comprehensive assessment strategy for critical medical devices. Therefore, this study reviews the current state of critical device reliability in healthcare facilities. The present knowledge can be improved by adding new scientific data emphasis on critical medical devices used in healthcare services.
Wogonin, a Bioactive Ingredient from Huangqi Guizhi Formula, Alleviates Discogenic Low Back Pain via Suppressing the Overexpressed NGF in Intervertebral Discs
Authors: Li Jitian , Duan Weifeng , Chai Shuang , Luo Yage , Ma Yan , Yang Ning , Liu Man , He Wei
Published: February 2023

Purpose. To investigate whether wogonin, a key bioactive ingredient of Huangqi Guizhi formula (HQGZ formula; a Traditional Chinese Medicine herbal formula) according to network pharmacology analysis, has analgesic effects on discogenic low back pain (LBP) via regulating the nerve growth factor (NGF) in intervertebral discs (IVDs). Methods. The lumbar IVDs of rats were punctured to discogenic LBP, and the therapeutic effect of orally administrated HQGZ for discogenic LBP was investigated by measuring mechanical and cold allodynia and histological analysis. A network pharmacology analysis was conducted to search for bioactive ingredients from the HQGZ formula, and wogonin was suggested to be the most possible bioactive ingredient for LBP treatment. Subsequently, the analgesic effect of wogonin was investigated in the LBP model, and the gene expression of propain peptides in the bilateral dorsal root ganglia was analyzed using RT-PCR. Finally, immunohistochemical staining was performed for NGF expression of NGF in the IVDs to determine whether wogonin treatment would ameliorate NGF-induced LBP. Results. Oral administration of HQGZ for two weeks significantly ameliorated puncture-induced IVD degeneration (IDD) and LBP. In addition, the network pharmacology analysis revealed that wogonin, quercetin, and kaempferol were the potential candidate components of HQGZ for LBP treatment. Furthermore, we proved that wogonin had significant analgesic effects in the LBP model. Finally, wogonin was demonstrated to suppress the upregulated NGF in the IVD and ameliorate NGF-induced LBP in rats. Conclusions. The HQGZ formula has significant analgesic effects for LBP. In addition, the bioactive ingredient of wogonin was extracted from HQGZ and ameliorated LBP by suppressing the overexpressed NGF in degenerated IVDs. Therefore, wogonin has potential to be alternative treatment for LBP in clinical.
A CT‐Based Radiomics Nomogram Model for Differentiating Primary Malignant Melanoma of the Esophagus from Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Shi Yan-Jie , Zhu Hai-Tao , Yan Shuo , Li Xiao-Ting , Zhang Xiao-Yan , Sun Ying-Shi
Published: February 2023

Objective. The diagnosis of primary malignant melanoma of the esophagus (PMME) before treatment is essential for clinical decision‐making. However, PMME may be misdiagnosed as esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) sometimes. This research is aimed at devising a radiomics nomogram model of CT for distinguishing PMME from ESCC. Methods. In this retrospective analysis, 122 individuals with proven pathologically PMME (n = 28) and ESCC (n = 94) were registered from our hospital. PyRadiomics was applied to derive radiomics features from plain and enhanced CT images after resampling image into an isotropic resolution of 0.625 × 0.625 × 0.625 mm3. The diagnostic efficiency of the model was evaluated by an independent validation group. Results. For the purpose of differentiation between PMME and ESCC, a radiomics model was constructed using 5 radiomics features obtained from nonenhanced CT and 4 radiomics features derived from enhanced CT. A radiomics model including multiple radiomics features showed excellent discrimination efficiency with AUCs of 0.975 and 0.906 in the primary and validation cohorts, respectively. Then, a radiomics nomogram model was developed. The decision curve analysis has shown remarkable performance of this nomogram model for distinguishing PMME from ESCC. Conclusions. The proposed radiomics nomogram model based on CT could be used for distinguishing PMME from ESCC. Moreover, this model also contributed to helping clinicians determine an appropriate treatment strategy for esophageal neoplasms.
Curvelet Transform Based Compression Algorithm for Low Resource Hyperspectral Image Sensors
Authors: Bajpai Shrish , Sharma Divya , Alam Monauwer , Chandel Vishal Singh , Pandey Amit Kumar , Tripathi Suman Lata
Published: February 2023

The wavelet transform is widely used in the task of hyperspectral image compression (HSIC). They have achieved outstanding performance in the compression of a hyperspectral (HS) image, which has attracted great interest. However, transform based hyperspectral image compression algorithm (HSICA) has low-coding gain than the other state of art HSIC algorithms. To solve this problem, this manuscript proposes a curvelet transform based HSIC algorithm. The curvelet transform is a multiscale mathematical transform that represents the curve and edges of the HS image more efficiently than the wavelet transform. The experiment results show that the proposed compression algorithm has high-coding gain, low-coding complexity, at par coding memory requirement, and works for both (lossy and lossless) compression. Thus, it is a suitable contender for the compression process in the HS image sensors.
Tumor Mutational Burden as a Predictor of Survival with Durvalumab and/or Tremelimumab Treatment in Recurrent or Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wildsmith Sophie , Li Weimin , Wu Song , Stewart Ross , Morsli Nassim , Raja Rajiv , Zhang Qu , Ye Jiabu , He Philip , Shetty Jagdish , Yovine Alejandro , Holoweckyj Nicholas , Real Katia , Walker Jill , Wrona Magdalena , de los Reyes Melissa , Barker Craig , Whiteley Jessica , Haddad Robert , Licitra Lisa , Ferris Robert , Fayette Jérôme , Zandberg Dan P. , Siu Lillian L. , Mesía Ricard
Published: February 2023

Purpose:

Biomarkers that predict response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (R/M HNSCC) are needed. This retrospective study assessed tumor mutational burden (TMB) and outcomes in the phase II HAWK and CONDOR and phase III EAGLE studies of durvalumab with or without tremelimumab in platinum-resistant R/M HNSCC.

Patients and Methods:

Tumor samples from HAWK/CONDOR (N = 153) and blood samples from EAGLE (N = 247) were analyzed for TMB. Associations with survival were evaluated for tissue TMB (tTMB) at cutoffs from 10 to 20 mutations/megabase (mut/Mb) and for blood plasma TMB (bTMB) at cutoffs from 8 to 24 mut/Mb.

Results:

In HAWK/CONDOR, overall survival (OS) with durvalumab with or without tremelimumab was longer for high versus low tTMB: statistically significant differences were observed with durvalumab plus tremelimumab at tTMB ≥ 10 mut/Mb [HR, 0.52 (95% confidence interval, CI, 0.28–0.98)] and tTMB ≥ 12 mut/Mb [HR, 0.46 (95% CI, 0.24–0.86)]. In EAGLE, a significant OS benefit versus chemotherapy was observed with durvalumab and durvalumab plus tremelimumab at bTMB≥16 mut/Mb [HR, 0.39 (95% CI, 0.20–0.76) and 0.38 (95% CI, 0.19–0.78), respectively] but not bTMB < 16 mut/Mb [HR, 0.92 (0.61–1.37) and 0.92 (95% CI, 0.62–1.36), respectively]. A significant progression-free survival benefit was also observed in the ICI arms versus chemotherapy at bTMB ≥ 16 mut/Mb.

Conclusions:

Findings support TMB as a biomarker for predicting survival in patients with platinum-resistant R/M HNSCC treated with ICIs. The analysis of EAGLE demonstrated that bTMB was predictive of survival with ICI treatment versus chemotherapy in a large, randomized controlled study population.