bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Deep Learning-Based Financial Risk Prediction
Authors: Huang Boning , Wei Junkang
Published: December 2021

Financial text-based risk prediction is an important subset for financial analysis. Through automatic analysis of public financial comments, fundamentals on current financial expectations can be evaluated. A deep learning method for financial risk prediction based on sentiment classification is proposed in this paper. The proposed method consists of two steps. Firstly, the abstract of the financial message is extracted according to the seq2seq model. During the extraction process, the seq2seq model can cope with the situation of different input message lengths. After the abstraction, invalid information in the financial messages can be effectively filtered, thus accelerating the subsequent sentiment classification step. The sentiment classification step is performed through the GRU model according to the abstracted texts. The proposed method has the following advantages: (1) it can handle financial messages of different lengths; (2) it can filter out the invalid information of financial messages; (3) because the extracted abstract is more refined, it can speed up the subsequent sentiment classification step; and (4) it has better sentiment classification accuracy. The proposed method in this paper is then verified through financial message dataset from the financial social network StockTwits. By comparing the classification performances, it can be seen that compared with the classical SVM and LSTM methods, the proposed method in this paper can improve the accuracy of sentiment classification by 5.57% and 2.58%, respectively.
Synthesis, Optimization, and Characterization of Ecofriendly Production of Gold Nanoparticles Using Lemon Peel Extract
Authors: Alzahrani Eman , Alkhudidy Ashwaq T.
Published: December 2021

This study examines the importance of utilizing green synthesis using lemon peel for gold nanoparticles over other chemicals since it is environmentally friendly, available, and cheap. Several parameters were optimized to ensure the extraction of the GNPs concentration of lemon peels using HAuCl4 and lemon peel extract having a ratio of 2 : 1. For the optimum result, the ratio used was 2 : 1. The gold nanoparticles fabrication happened in 10 minutes. The initial observation was the color change of the solution. The UV-visibility spectroscopic studies are performed to confirm the result. The experiments are done concurrently to ensure the solution is mixed on the proper ratio. The GNP is also characterized by the different techniques in their sizes and electronic transmission microscopy, essential in extracting gold nanoparticles. Other elements of the composition are removed by the EDAX methods, the FTIR method, and the TEM methods, all of which reveal the real reason behind the required extraction capacity. Most gold nanoparticles show a maximum absorption rate at the peak of 535 to 579 nm. The result obtained from the TEM and the SEM analysis revealed that the grain size is analogized to the average size of 6.67 nm. With a simple synthesis of the price, some processes show that the medically available nanoparticles are necessary. The used method in this paper to fabricate GNPs is cheap, easy, fast, and sustainable and it can be done with ease in any laboratory.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Group B Streptococcus Colonization in Pregnant Women: A Pilot Study in Palestine
Authors: Qadi Mohammad , AbuTaha Adham , Al-Shehab Ro’ya , Sulaiman Salsabil , Hamayel Abdallah , Hussein Amjad , AbuTaha Shatha , Dawoud Ayman , Hussein Faizeh
Published: December 2021

Background. Maternal Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus (GBS)) colonization is an important cause of complications in mothers and neonates during gestation and after delivery. The data regarding GBS colonization among pregnant women in Palestine is scarce. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of GBS colonization, its associated risk factors, and the antibiotic sensitivity patterns in Nablus, West Bank, Palestine. Methods. A cross-sectional, single center study conducted at Rafidia Governmental Hospital in Nablus, West Bank, Palestine. Samples were collected between November 2019 and January 2020. Vaginal swabs from 200 pregnant women (≥35 weeks of gestation) attending the labor and delivery department were plated directly on CHROMagarTM StrepB (CHROM agar, France) and placed in an incubator at 35–37°C. After 24 and 48 hours, the plates were checked for growth and classified into three categories: growth of GBS with mauve colonies on chromogenic media, no growth, or other growth. The identification of the mauve colonies was confirmed by the CAMP test. Identified GBS isolates were tested for susceptibility to vancomycin, ampicillin, clindamycin, cefotaxime, erythromycin, and levofloxacin using the disc diffusion method. Clinical and demographic information were collected using a questionnaire. Result. The overall prevalence of GBS colonization was 12%. The median age of the study population was 27 years. GBS colonization was significantly associated with age (

p
=
0.013

), history of previous preterm delivery (

p
=
0.013

), and parity (

p
=
0.015

). No association was noted with smoking, previous abortion, previous history of fetal demise, vaginitis, or urinary tract infection. Resistance to ampicillin, vancomycin, cefotaxime, erythromycin, clindamycin, and levofloxacin was found to be 91.7%, 54.2%, 45.8%, 29.2%, 25%, and 8.3%, respectively. Conclusion. The prevalence of vaginal GBS in this study was 12% from Nablus, West Bank. Further research is needed to determine the GBS serotypes common in West Bank and the burden they cause on the health system. Moreover, this study also highlights the need to establish a screening program suited to a developing country with low control on the antibiotic’s prescription protocols.
Anticancer Action of Xiaoxianxiong Tang in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer by Pharmacological Analysis and Experimental Validation
Authors: Ding Rongzhen , Jiao Lijing , Sang Shuliu , Yin Yinan , Wang Yichao , Gong Yabin , Xu Ling , Bi Ling
Published: December 2021

Xiaoxianxiong Tang (XXXT) is a well-known traditional Chinese medicine formula. Evidence is emerging supporting the benefits of XXXT in ameliorating therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The purpose of this study aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of XXXT through network pharmacological analysis and biological validation. TCMSP database was used to identify potentially active compounds in XXXT with absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion screening, and their potential targets. The disease targets related to NSCLC were predicted by searching for Therapeutic Target database, GeneCards database, DrugBank database, and DisGeNET database. Of the 4385 NSCLC-related targets, 156 targets were also the targets of compounds present in XXXT. Subsequently, GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment and PPI network analyses revealed that, of the 95 targets and 20 pathways influenced by 20 ingredients in XXXT, 20 targets were associated with patient survival, and XXXT could exert an inhibitory action on the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Moreover, XXXT restrained the proliferation of A549 and H460 cells in a concentration-dependent manner and suppressed the mRNA and protein levels of key targets CCNA2, FOSL2, and BIRC5 closely linked to the PI3K-AKT pathway. Hence, XXXT has the potential to improve therapy for NSCLC by targeting the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.
HDAC2 Facilitates Pancreatic Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Krauß Lukas , Urban Bettina C. , Hastreiter Sieglinde , Schneider Carolin , Wenzel Patrick , Hassan Zonera , Wirth Matthias , Lankes Katharina , Terrasi Andrea , Klement Christine , Cernilogar Filippo M. , Öllinger Rupert , de Andrade Krätzig Niklas , Engleitner Thomas , Schmid Roland M. , Steiger Katja , Rad Roland , Krämer Oliver H. , Reichert Maximilian , Schotta Gunnar , Saur Dieter , Schneider Günter
Published: December 2021

The mortality of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is strongly associated with metastasis, a multistep process that is incompletely understood in this disease. Although genetic drivers of PDAC metastasis have not been defined, transcriptional and epigenetic rewiring can contribute to the metastatic process. The epigenetic eraser histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) has been connected to less differentiated PDAC, but the function of HDAC2 in PDAC has not been comprehensively evaluated. Using genetically defined models, we show that HDAC2 is a cellular fitness factor that controls cell cycle in vitro and metastasis in vivo, particularly in undifferentiated, mesenchymal PDAC cells. Unbiased expression profiling detected a core set of HDAC2-regulated genes. HDAC2 controlled expression of several prosurvival receptor tyrosine kinases connected to mesenchymal PDAC, including PDGFRα, PDGFRβ, and EGFR. The HDAC2-maintained program disabled the tumor-suppressive arm of the TGFβ pathway, explaining impaired metastasis formation of HDAC2-deficient PDAC. These data identify HDAC2 as a tractable player in the PDAC metastatic cascade. The complexity of the function of epigenetic regulators like HDAC2 implicates that an increased understanding of these proteins is needed for implementation of effective epigenetic therapies.

Significance:

HDAC2 has a context-specific role in undifferentiated PDAC and the capacity to disseminate systemically, implicating HDAC2 as targetable protein to prevent metastasis.
Leveraging Allele-Specific Expression for Therapeutic Response Gene Discovery in Glioblastoma
Authors: Sen Arko , Prager Briana C. , Zhong Cuiqing , Park Donglim , Zhu Zhe , Gimple Ryan C. , Wu Qiulian , Bernatchez Jean A. , Beck Sungjun , Clark Alex E. , Siqueira-Neto Jair L. , Rich Jeremy N. , McVicker Graham
Published: December 2021

Glioblastoma is the most prevalent primary malignant brain tumor in adults and is characterized by poor prognosis and universal tumor recurrence. Effective glioblastoma treatments are lacking, in part due to somatic mutations and epigenetic reprogramming that alter gene expression and confer drug resistance. To investigate recurrently dysregulated genes in glioblastoma, we interrogated allele-specific expression (ASE), the difference in expression between two alleles of a gene, in glioblastoma stem cells (GSC) derived from 43 patients. A total of 118 genes were found with recurrent ASE preferentially in GSCs compared with normal tissues. These genes were enriched for apoptotic regulators, including schlafen family member 11 (SLFN11). Loss of SLFN11 gene expression was associated with aberrant promoter methylation and conferred resistance to chemotherapy and PARP inhibition. Conversely, low SLFN11 expression rendered GSCs susceptible to the oncolytic flavivirus Zika. This discovery effort based upon ASE revealed novel points of vulnerability in GSCs, suggesting a potential alternative treatment strategy for chemotherapy-resistant glioblastoma.

Significance:

Assessing allele-specific expression reveals genes with recurrent cis-regulatory changes that are enriched in glioblastoma stem cells, including SLFN11, which modulates chemotherapy resistance and susceptibility to the oncolytic Zika virus.
FDA Approval Summary: Sotorasib for KRAS G12C-Mutated Metastatic NSCLC
Authors: Nakajima Erica C. , Drezner Nicole , Li Xiaoxue , Mishra-Kalyani Pallavi S. , Liu Yajun , Zhao Hong , Bi Youwei , Liu Jiang , Rahman Atiqur , Wearne Emily , Ojofeitimi Idara , Hotaki Lauren Tesh , Spillman Dianne , Pazdur Richard , Beaver Julia A. , Singh Harpreet
Published: December 2021

On May 28, 2021, the FDA granted accelerated approval to sotorasib (Lumakras, Amgen) for the treatment of adults with advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with a Kirsten rat sarcoma proto-oncogene (KRAS) G12C mutation who have received at least one prior systemic therapy. The approval was based on CodeBreaK 100 (Study 20170543), a dose-escalation and dose-expansion trial in patients with an advanced, KRAS G12C-mutated, solid tumor. The overall response rate (ORR) observed in patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC treated with sotorasib (n = 124) was 36% [95% confidence interval (CI), 28–45]. The median duration of response was 10.0 months (95% CI, 6.9–not estimable). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were diarrhea, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, fatigue, hepatotoxicity, and cough. This is the first approval of a targeted therapy for KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC. Because of pharmacokinetic data and ORRs of patient cohorts who took sotorasib at lower doses in the dose-escalation portion of CodeBreaK 100, a dose comparison study is being conducted as a post-marketing requirement.
Radical Radiation Therapy for Radiation-Induced Angiosarcoma with Local Control
Authors: Ikenohira Tsutomu , Konishi Kenta , Hirata Masanori , Ohira Keiichi , Nakamura Katsumasa
Published: December 2021

Angiosarcoma is believed to be refractory to radical radiotherapy. Although no effective treatment for radiation-induced angiosarcoma has been established, surgery is generally chosen. We report a case of unresectable radiation-induced angiosarcoma after breast cancer surgery that responded remarkably to radical radiotherapy alone. A 78-year-old Japanese female had a large mass in her right breast that was diagnosed as angiosarcoma after biopsy and considered to be a radiation-induced angiosarcoma because the patient had been treated with postoperative irradiation to the right breast cancer 8 years earlier. There were no findings suggestive of lymphadenopathy or distant metastasis. Since the tumor was widely infiltrated to the skin and the muscle layer, radical radiotherapy (total dose 66 Gy) was performed. At this radiotherapy completion, the tumor was remarkably reduced, and there were no acute adverse effects except for grade 2 dermatitis. Pazopanib was started after radiotherapy but was discontinued since necrosis of the wound with hemorrhage was observed. External pneumothorax occurred due to the marked tumor shrinkage, but it was cured by conservative care. Although angiosarcoma is well known to be radioresistant, excellent local control may be obtained by radical radiotherapy in some cases. Radiotherapy should be considered as a treatment option in inoperable cases.
Effect of Beta-Blocker Cardioselectivity on Vascular Refilling in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Nadal Marta Álvarez , Viera Ramírez Elizabeth Romelia , García Vallejo María , Martín Capón Irene , Fernández Lucas Milagros
Published: December 2021

Background: β-Blockers are the most frequently prescribed cardioprotective drugs in hemodialysis (HD) patients, despite their weak evidence. We sought to evaluate the effects of β-blockers on vascular refilling during HD treatments and examine whether carvedilol, for being noncardioselective and poorly dialyzable, associates more impact than others. Methods: The study was performed in a cohort of maintenance HD patients from a tertiary center. All patients had previous β-blocker prescription. We conducted a prospective crossover study and measured vascular refilling volume (Vref) and vascular refilling fraction (Fref) in 2 circumstances: under β-blocker treatment (βb profile) and without β-blocker effect (non-βb profile). Results: Twenty patients were included, 10 of whom were treated with carvedilol. Predialysis values were comparable between the 2 profiles. Although the βb profile showed lower Vref and higher ABV drop, these differences did not reach statistical significance. Data showed an increase in Fref in the non-βb profile (70.01 ± 6.80% vs. 63.14 ± 11.65%; p = 0.015). The βb profile associated a significantly higher risk of intradialytic hypotension (IDH) (risk ratio 2.40; 95% CI: 1.04–5.55). When analyzing separately the carvedilol group, patients dialyzed under drug effect experienced a significant impairment in Vref, Fref, and refilling rate. Conclusions: Administering β-blockers before HD associated a higher risk of IDH and a decrease in Fref. Patients dialyzed under carvedilol effect showed an impaired refilling, probably related to its noncardioselectivity and lower dializability.
Implementation of the Surgical Apgar Score in Laboratory Animal Science: A Showcase Pilot Study in a Porcine Model and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Ernst Lisa , Kümmecke Anna Maria , Zieglowski Leonie , Liu Wenjia , Schulz Mareike , Czigany Zoltan , Tolba René H.
Published: December 2021

Introduction: In an attempt to further improve surgical outcomes, a variety of outcome prediction and risk-assessment tools have been developed for the clinical setting. Risk scores such as the surgical Apgar score (SAS) hold promise to facilitate the objective assessment of perioperative risk related to comorbidities of the patients or the individual characteristics of the surgical procedure itself. Despite the large number of scoring models in clinical surgery, only very few of these models have ever been utilized in the setting of laboratory animal science. The SAS has been validated in various clinical surgical procedures and shown to be strongly associated with postoperative morbidity. In the present study, we aimed to review the clinical evidence supporting the use of the SAS system and performed a showcase pilot trial in a large animal model as the first implementation of a porcine-adapted SAS (pSAS) in an in vivo laboratory animal science setting. Methods: A literature review was performed in the PubMed and Embase databases. Study characteristics and results using the SAS were reported. For the in vivo study, 21 female German landrace pigs have been used either to study bleeding analogy (n = 9) or to apply pSAS after abdominal surgery in a kidney transplant model (n = 12). The SAS was calculated using 3 criteria: (1) estimated blood loss during surgery; (2) lowest mean arterial blood pressure; and (3) lowest heart rate. Results: The SAS has been verified to be an effective tool in numerous clinical studies of abdominal surgery, regardless of specialization confirming independence on the type of surgical field or the choice of surgery. Thresholds for blood loss assessment were species specifically adjusted to >700 mL = score 0; 700–400 mL = score 1; 400–55 mL score 2; and <55 mL = score 3 resulting in a species-specific pSAS for a more precise classification. Conclusion: Our literature review demonstrates the feasibility and excellent performance of the SAS in various clinical settings. Within this pilot study, we could demonstrate the usefulness of the modified SAS (pSAS) in a porcine kidney transplantation model. The SAS has a potential to facilitate early veterinary intervention and drive the perioperative care in large animal models exemplified in a case study using pigs. Further larger studies are warranted to validate our findings.
Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Endometrium in a Patient Presenting with Postmenopausal Bleeding but Negative Endometrial Biopsy
Authors: Silwal Swechchha , Yadav Sumeet Kumar , Amalraj Benedict , Mandeel Mohamed , Krishnamoorthy Geetha
Published: December 2021

Endometrial carcinoma is the most common gynecological malignancy in the USA with approximately 66,570 cases and 12,940 deaths in 2020. Clear cell carcinoma (CCC) of the endometrium is an estrogen-independent type II endometrial cancer which accounts for <5% of endometrial cancer. When diagnosed roughly, 45% of patients have extrauterine metastases. Current American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology guidelines recommend transvaginal ultrasound for postmenopausal bleeding and a biopsy for those with endometrial thickness >5 mm. However, we present a case of a postmenopausal woman with a history of fibroid where endometrial biopsy has failed to make diagnosis twice. Hence, further testing should be performed in patients with unexplained postmenopausal bleeding including vaginal hysterectomy with lymph node dissection.
Matrix Metalloproteinase 28-Bearing Microcystic Adnexal Carcinoma on the Back
Authors: Chiba Hiromu , Kambayashi Yumi , Tamabuchi Erika , Hashimoto Akira , Fujimura Taku
Published: December 2021

Although microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) recurs and expands locally without metastases to the lymph nodes and other organs, its biological behavior remains unknown. In this report, a case of a giant MAC on the back treated with radical excision and curative radiation therapy and its characteristic dermoscopic findings are presented. In addition, immunohistochemical staining showed the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 28 on the tumor cells and MMP12 and periostin in the stroma. The present case suggests the possible biological behaviors of MAC and might provide a possible target for the treatment of MAC in the future.
Local Immunosuppression in Wuzhishan Pig to Rhesus Monkey Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty: An Innovative Method to Promote the Survival of Xenografts
Authors: Li Xu , Huang Ying , Liang Qingfeng , Li Guoping , Feng Shutang , Song Yaowen , Zhang Yang , Wang Li , Jie Ying , Pan Zhiqiang
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Corneal xenotransplantation is an effective solution for human corneal shortage. We investigated the feasibility and efficacy of different postoperative protocols on xeno-Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) grafts. Methods: Thirty rhesus monkeys were randomly divided into three groups: control group (C) and only Descemet’s membrane (DM) stripping, DSAEK 1 (D1) and DSAEK 2 (D2) groups, DM stripping followed by endothelial keratoplasty. Betamethasone 3.5 mg was subconjunctivally injected in groups control and D1 postoperatively, whereas rhesus monkeys in group D2 received topical 0.1% tacrolimus and topical steroids. All groups were evaluated by slit lamp, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, and laser scanning confocal microscopy for at least 9 months. Results: Twenty-four monkeys met the inclusion criteria. Nine months after the DSAEK surgery, most corneas were transparent. Graft rejection was observed in 25% and 28.57% of the cases in group D1 and group D2 (p > 0.05), respectively. Corneal endothelium densities in DSAEK groups were 2,715.83 ± 516.20/mm2 (D1) and 2,220.00 ± 565.13/mm2 (D2) (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Xenogeneic corneal endothelial grafts can survive and function in rhesus monkey eyes for a prolonged period of time with subconjunctival steroid or topical tacrolimus and steroid treatment. Furthermore, topical drugs are more suitable for clinical use.
Long-Term Post-Stroke Functional Outcomes: A Comparison of Diabetics and Nondiabetics
Authors: De Silva Deidre Anne , Narasimhalu Kaavya , Huang Ian Wang , Woon Fung Peng , Allen John Carson , Wong Meng Cheong
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is known to influence outcomes in the short term following stroke. However, the impact of DM on long-term functional outcomes after stroke is unclear. We compared functional outcomes periodically over 7 years between diabetic and nondiabetic ischemic stroke patients, and investigated the impact of DM on the long-term trajectory of post-stroke functional outcomes. We also studied the influence of age on the diabetes-functional outcome association. Methods: This is a longitudinal observational cohort study of 802 acute ischemic stroke patients admitted to the Singapore General Hospital from 2005 to 2007. Functional outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) with poor functional outcome defined as mRS ≥3. Follow-up data were determined at 6 months and at median follow-up durations of 29 and 86 months. Results: Among the 802 ischemic stroke patients studied (mean age 64 ± 12 years, male 63%), 42% had DM. In regression analyses adjusting for covariates, diabetic patients were more likely to have poor functional outcomes at 6 months (OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.23–3.67) and at median follow-up durations of 29 months (OR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.37–2.81) and 86 months (OR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.58–3.25). In addition, age modulated the effect of DM, with younger stroke patients (≤65 years) more likely to have long-term poor functional outcome at the 29-month (p = 0.0179) and 86-month (p = 0.0144) time points. Conclusions: DM was associated with poor functional outcomes following ischemic stroke in the long term, with the effect remaining consistent throughout the 7-year follow-up period. Age modified the effect of DM in the long term, with an observed increase in risk in the ≤65 age-group but not in the >65 age-group.
Paediatric Spinal Tumours: Profile and Treatment Outcome in a Nigerian Tertiary Institution
Authors: Badejo Oluwakemi Aderonke , Oyemolade Toyin Ayofe , Adeolu Augustine Abiodun , Shokunbi Matthew Temitayo
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Paediatric spinal tumours are rare, accounting for 1–10% of all childhood central nervous system tumours. There is a paucity of information on spinal tumours in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is particularly so in the Nigerian paediatric population where neuro-oncologic data are limited. Indeed, there is no previously published work on paediatric spinal tumours in the Nigerian neurosurgical literature. The authors aim to document the profile of paediatric spinal tumours in a Nigerian tertiary institution and to contribute to the available data on paediatric central nervous system tumours in West Africa. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated data on paediatric patients who underwent surgery for spine tumours over a 20-year period at our institution. Results: A total of 12 patients were managed for paediatric spine tumours during the study period. These had a male:female ratio of 1:1.4, and their ages ranged between 3 and 18 years (mean: 12.83 ± 4.75 years). The highest incidence (6/12) was seen in the 15–18 years age group. The mean duration of symptoms was 10.2 months. More than half (7/12) of the patients presented with symptoms with duration of at least 6 months. Motor deficit was present in all patients at presentation. Two-thirds of the tumours were in the thoracic region, 1 was located in the cervical region, while the remaining 3 tumours were cervicothoracic. The tumour was extradural in location in 8 of our patients and intramedullary in the remaining 4. Astrocytoma, intramedullary in all cases, was the most predominant histological tumour type (3/12) in our series. Postoperative neurological improvement occurred in 7 of the patients while 5 remained the same. There was no permanent postoperative neurological deterioration or perioperative mortality. Conclusion: Paediatric spinal tumours mostly affected older children in our study group and were predominantly astrocytic in nature. The most common tumour location was extradural, involving mostly the thoracic spinal level. The preoperative neurological status correlates with the postoperative functional outcome. Therefore, the need for early diagnosis and treatment of these tumours cannot be overemphasized.
Chromatophony: A Potential Application of Living Images in the Pixel Era
Authors: Yokokawa Juppo , Masuda Nobuhiro , Jo Kazuhiro
Published: December 2021

Squids can rapidly change their body color using chromatophores that are controlled by electrical signals transmitted through nerves. The authors transform a squid’s skin into an audio visualizer called Chromatophony. This is accomplished by sending an electric tone signal composed as music to the skin. Although Chromatophony’s appearance is similar to that of computer-generated images, it is based on a natural phenomenon with a colorful mosaic display. By comparing chromatophores with pixels, the authors propose Living Images to expand the potential of visual expression from the perspective of bioart theory.
An Intraseasonal Mode Linking Wintertime Surface Air Temperature over Arctic and Eurasian Continent
Authors: Xiu Junyi , Jiang Xianan , Zhang Renhe , Guan Weina , Chen Gang
Published: December 2021

Key processes associated with the leading intraseasonal variability mode of wintertime surface air temperature (SAT) over Eurasia and the Arctic region are investigated in this study. Characterized by a dipole distribution in SAT anomalies centered over north Eurasia and the Arctic, respectively, and coherent temperature anomalies vertically extending from the surface to 300 hPa, this leading intraseasonal SAT mode and associated circulation have pronounced influences on global surface temperature anomalies including the East Asian winter monsoon region. By taking advantage of realistic simulations of the intraseasonal SAT mode in a global climate model, it is illustrated that temperature anomalies in the troposphere associated with the leading SAT mode are mainly due to dynamic processes, especially via the horizontal advection of winter mean temperature by intraseasonal circulation. While the cloud–radiative feedback is not critical in sustaining the temperature variability in the troposphere, it is found to play a crucial role in coupling temperature anomalies at the surface and in the free atmosphere through anomalous surface downward longwave radiation. The variability in clouds associated with the intraseasonal SAT mode is closely linked to moisture anomalies generated by similar advective processes as for temperature anomalies. Model experiments suggest that this leading intraseasonal SAT mode can be sustained by internal atmospheric processes in the troposphere over the mid- to high latitudes by excluding forcings from Arctic sea ice variability, tropical convective variability, and the stratospheric processes.
Measuring Hazards of Undetectable Viral Load among Hepatitis C Antibody Positive Residents of a Large Southern California County
Authors: Goodman Sara , Zahn Matthew , Bruckner Tim , Boden-Albala Bernadette , Lakon Cynthia M.
Published: December 2021

Abstract Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the most common bloodborne infection in the U.S. However, only a small proportion of persons are treated and cured. Previous research has not characterized sociodemographic characteristics of who receives treatment. We examined predictors of undetectable for HCV in Orange County, the sixth largest county in the United States, where HCV is the most commonly reported infection. Methods: From 2014 to 2020, we acquired public health surveillance data from 91,165 HCV antibody-positive care encounters from the California Reportable Disease Information Exchange (CalREDIE). We used a time-to-event proportional hazards framework to estimate individual and area-level correlates of time-to-HCV undetectable viral load among HCV + individuals. Results: Older adults (>65 years) showed an increased hazard of undetectable viral load relative to younger adults (HR = 2.00). In addition, residents of census tracts with greater enrollment in health insurance showed a greater likelihood of undetectable viral load (HR = 1.36). The moderating effect of higher tract median household income and higher tract levels of health insurance were more likely to have undetectable viral load and was statistically significant. Conclusion: In a large urban county, HCV antibody-positive older adults appear much more likely to show undetectable viral load compared to younger adults. Residents in areas with higher quartiles of health insurance enrollment have an increased likelihood of undetectable viral load. The extent to which constraints impede HCV care requires further investigation, including follow-up studies on health insurance type to test the relationship of health insurance type to undetectable viral load.
Effect of 3D‐Printed Models on Cadaveric Dissection in Temporal Bone Training
Authors: Frithioff Andreas , Frendø Martin , Weiss Kenneth , Foghsgaard Søren , Pedersen David Bue , Sørensen Mads Sølvsten , Wuyts Andersen Steven Arild
Published: December 2021

Objective

Mastoidectomy is a cornerstone in the surgical management of middle and inner ear diseases. Unfortunately, training is challenged by insufficient access to human cadavers. Three‐dimensional (3D) printing of temporal bones could alleviate this problem, but evidence on their educational effectiveness is lacking. It is largely unknown whether training on 3D‐printed temporal bones improves mastoidectomy performance, including on cadavers, and how this training compares with virtual reality (VR) simulation. To address this knowledge gap, this study investigated whether training on 3D‐printed temporal bones improves cadaveric dissection performance, and it compared this training with the already‐established VR simulation.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study of an educational intervention.

Setting

Tertiary university hospital, cadaver dissection laboratory, and simulation center in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Methods

Eighteen otorhinolaryngology residents (intervention) attending the national temporal bone dissection course received 3 hours of mastoidectomy training on 3D‐printed temporal bones. Posttraining cadaver mastoidectomy performances were rated by 3 experts using a validated assessment tool and compared with those of 66 previous course participants (control) who had received time‐equivalent VR training prior to dissection.

Results

The intervention cohort outperformed the controls during cadaver dissection by 29% (P <. 001); their performances were largely similar across training modalities but remained at a modest level (~50% of the maximum score).

Conclusion

Mastoidectomy skills improved from training on 3D‐printed temporal bone and seemingly more so than on time‐equivalent VR simulation. Importantly, these skills transferred to cadaveric dissection. Training on 3D‐printed temporal bones can effectively supplement cadaver training when learning mastoidectomy.
Evaluation of Patient‐Reported Delays and Affordability‐Related Barriers to Care in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Lenze Nicholas R. , Bensen Jeannette T. , Farnan Laura , Sheth Siddharth , Zevallos Jose P. , Yarbrough Wendell G. , Zanation Adam M.
Published: December 2021

Objective

To examine the prevalence and predictors of patient‐reported barriers to care among survivors of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and the association with health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Outpatient oncology clinic at an academic tertiary care center.

Methods

Data were obtained from the UNC Health Registry/Cancer Survivorship Cohort. Barriers to care included self‐reported delays in care and inability to obtain needed care due to cost. HRQOL was measured with validated questionnaires: general (PROMIS) and cancer specific (FACT‐GP).

Results

The sample included 202 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma with a mean age of 59.6 years (SD, 10.0). Eighty‐two percent were male and 87% were White. Sixty‐two patients (31%) reported at least 1 barrier to care. Significant predictors of a barrier to care in unadjusted analysis included age ≤60 years (P =. 007), female sex (P =. 020), being unmarried (P =. 016), being uninsured (P =. 047), and Medicaid insurance (P =. 022). Patients reporting barriers to care had significantly worse physical and mental HRQOL on the PROMIS questionnaires (P <. 001 and P =. 002, respectively) and lower cancer‐specific HRQOL on the FACT‐GP questionnaire (P <. 001), which persisted across physical, social, emotional, and functional domains. There was no difference in 5‐year OS (75.3% vs 84.1%, P =. 177) or 5‐year CSS (81.6% vs 85.4%, P =. 542) in patients with and without barriers to care.

Conclusion

Delay‐ and affordability‐related barriers are common among survivors of head and neck cancer and appear to be associated with significantly worse HRQOL outcomes. Certain sociodemographic groups appear to be more at risk of patient‐reported barriers to care.
N95 vs Half‐face Respirator Wear in Surgical Trainees: Physiologic and Psychological Effects of Prolonged Use
Authors: Cohen Erin R. , Peña Stefanie , Misztal Carly , Iglesias Thomas , Alejandro Mantero , Dinh Christine T. , Holt Gregory , Thomas Giovana R.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

As specialists of the upper airway, otolaryngologists are at high risk for COVID‐19 transmission. N95 and half‐face respirator (HFR) masks are commonly worn, each with advantages in functionality and comfort. In this study, physiologic and psychological parameters of prolonged N95 vs HFR wear were compared.

Study Design

Prospective crossover cohort study.

Setting

Single academic tertiary care hospital.

Methods

A prospective crossover cohort study was performed. Healthy otolaryngology trainees and medical students (N = 23) participated and wore N95 and HFR masks continuously for 3 hours each on separate days. Various measures were analyzed: vitals, spirometry variables, scores on the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory and HIT‐6 (Headache Impact Test–6), distress, and “difficulty being understood.”

Results

The average age was 26.3 years (SD, 3.42). There were no significant differences in vital signs and spirometry variables between N95 and HFR wear. N95 wear was associated with decreases in oxygen saturation of approximately 1.09% more than with HFRs (95% CI, 0.105‐2.077). State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory scores increased more with HFR wear when compared with mean changes with N95 wear (95% CI, 1.350‐8.741). There were no significant differences in HIT‐6 scores or distress levels between masks. The proportions of participants reporting difficulty being understood was significantly higher with HFRs.

Conclusions

Oxygen saturation decreases with prolonged N95 wear, but anxiety and difficulty being understood are greater with HFR wear. Although HFRs have less resistance to gas exchange, N95 respirators may produce less anxiety and distress in clinical situations. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the clinical significance of these differences.

Level of Evidence

2.
Dendoraite-(NH4), a new phosphate–oxalate mineral related to thebaite-(NH4) from the Rowley mine, Arizona, USA
Authors: Kampf Anthony R. , Cooper Mark A. , Celestian Aaron J. , Ma Chi , Marty Joe
Published: December 2021

Dendoraite-(NH4), (NH4)2NaAl(C2O4)(PO3OH)2(H2O)2, is a new mineral species from the Rowley mine, Maricopa County, Arizona, USA. It occurs in an unusual bat-guano-related, post-mining assemblage of phases that include a variety of vanadates, phosphates, oxalates and chlorides, some containing NH4+. Other secondary minerals found in association with dendoraite-(NH4) are antipinite, fluorite, mimetite, mottramite, relianceite-(K), rowleyite, salammoniac, struvite, vanadinite, willemite, wulfenite and at least one other new mineral. Crystals of dendoraite-(NH4) are colourless blades up to ~0.1 mm in length. The streak is white and lustre is vitreous, Mohs hardness is 2½, tenacity is brittle and fracture is splintery. The calculated density is 2.122 g⋅cm–3. Dendoraite-(NH4) is optically biaxial (–) with α = 1.490(5), β = 1.540(5) and γ = 1.541(5) (white light); 2Vcalc = 15.7°; and orientation X = b. Electron microprobe analysis gave the empirical formula [(NH4)1.48K0.52]Σ2.00Na0.96(Al0.96Fe3+0.03)Σ0.99(C2O4)[PO2.97(OH)1.03]2(H2O)2, with the C, N and H contents constrained by the crystal structure. Dendoraite-(NH4) is monoclinic, P21/n, with a = 10.695(6), b = 6.285(4), c = 19.227(12) Å, β = 90.933(10)°, V = 1292(2) Å3, and Z = 4. The structural unit in the crystal structure of dendoraite-(NH4) (R1 = 0.0467 for 1322 Io > 2σI reflections) is a double-strand chain of corner-sharing AlO6 octahedra and PO3OH tetrahedra decorated by additional PO3OH tetrahedra and C2O4 groups. Topologically, this is the same chain found in the structure of thebaite-(NH4). The decorated chains connect to one another through links to NaO7(H2O) polyhedra to form a [Na(H2O)Al(C2O4)(PO3OH)2]2– sheet, which connect to one another through bonds to (NH4)/K and through hydrogen bonds.
Relianceite-(K), a new phosphate–oxalate mineral related to davidbrownite-(NH4) from the Rowley mine, Arizona, USA
Authors: Kampf Anthony R. , Cooper Mark A. , Celestian Aaron J. , Ma Chi , Marty Joe
Published: December 2021

Relianceite-(K), K4Mg(V4+O)2(C2O4)(PO3OH)4(H2O)10, is a new mineral species from the Rowley mine, Maricopa County, Arizona, USA. It occurs in an unusual bat-guano-related, post-mining assemblage of phases. Other secondary minerals associated with relianceite-(K) are antipinite, dendoraite-(NH4), fluorite, mimetite, mottramite, rowleyite, salammoniac, struvite, vanadinite, willemite, wulfenite and at least one other new mineral. Crystals of relianceite-(K) are sky blue prisms up to ~0.1 mm in length. The streak is very pale blue and lustre is vitreous, Mohs hardness is 2½, tenacity is brittle and fracture is splintery. The calculated density is 2.111 g⋅cm–3. Relianceite-(K) is optically biaxial (+) with α = 1.528(2), β = 1.529(2), γ = 1.562(2) (white light); 2Vmeas = 22(1)°; orientation Z = b; pleochroism: X = colourless, Y = pale blue, Z = pale blue; X < Y ≈ Z. Electron microprobe analysis gave the empirical formula [K2.21(NH4)1.79]Σ4.00Mg0.96(V4+0.95O)2(C2O4)[P1.03O3.03(OH)0.97]4(H2O)10, with the C, N and H contents constrained by the crystal structure. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of NH4 and C2O4. Relianceite-(K) is monoclinic, Pc, with a = 12.404 (7) Å, b = 9.014 (6), c = 13.260 (8) Å, β = 100.803(10)°, V = 1456 (2) Å3 and Z = 2. The structural unit in the crystal structure of relianceite-(K) (R1 = 0.0540 for 3751 Io > 2σI reflections) is a (V4+O)2(C2O4)(PO3OH)4 chain in which VO6 octahedra are bridged by an oxalate group to form [V2C2O12] dimers, PO3OH tetrahedra form a double bridge between the VO6 octahedra of the dimers, and additional PO3OH tetrahedra decorate the chain. Topologically, this is the same chain found in the structure of davidbrownite-(NH4). The MgO(H2O)5 octahedron can be considered a distant decoration on the chain. The chains are linked to each other through an extensive system of K/NH4–O bonds and hydrogen bonds.
Increase in ACC GABA+ levels correlate with decrease in migraine frequency, intensity and disability over time
Authors: Peek Aimie L. , Leaver Andrew M. , Foster Sheryl , Puts Nicolaas A. , Oeltzschner Georg , Henderson Luke , Galloway Graham , Ng Karl , Refshauge Kathryn , Rebbeck Trudy
Published: December 2021

Background

An imbalance between inhibitory and excitatory neurometabolites has been implicated in chronic pain. Prior work identified elevated levels of Gamma-aminobutyric acid + macromolecules (“GABA+”) using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) in people with migraine. What is not understood is whether this increase in GABA+ is a cause, or consequence of living with, chronic migraine. Therefore, to further elucidate the nature of the elevated GABA+ levels reported in migraine, this study aimed to observe how GABA+ levels change in response to changes in the clinical characteristics of migraine over time.

Methods

We observed people with chronic migraine (ICHD-3) over 3-months as their treatment was escalated in line with the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Participants underwent an MRS scan and completed questionnaires regarding migraine frequency, intensity (HIT-6) and disability (WHODAS) at baseline and following the routine 3 months treatment escalation to provide the potential for some participants to recover. We were therefore able to monitor changes in brain neurochemistry as clinical characteristics potentially changed over time.

Results

The results, from 18 participants who completed both baseline and follow-up measures, demonstrated that improvements in migraine frequency, intensity and disability were associated with an increase in GABA+ levels in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC); migraine frequency (r = − 0.51, p = 0.03), intensity (r = − 0.51, p = 0.03) and disability (r = − 0.53, p = 0.02). However, this was not seen in the posterior cingulate gyrus (PCG). An incidental observation found those who happened to have their treatment escalated with CGRP-monoclonal antibodies (CGRP-mAbs) (n = 10) had a greater increase in ACC GABA+ levels (mean difference 0.54 IU IQR [0.02 to 1.05], p = 0.05) and reduction in migraine frequency (mean difference 10.3 IQR [2.52 to 18.07], p = 0.01) compared to those who did not (n = 8).

Conclusion

The correlation between an increase in ACC GABA+ levels with improvement in clinical characteristics of migraine, suggest previously reported elevated GABA+ levels may not be a cause of migraine, but a protective mechanism attempting to suppress further migraine attacks.
In search of a gold standard patient-reported outcome measure to use in the evaluation and treatment-decision making in migraine prevention. A real-world evidence study
Authors: Alpuente Alicia , Gallardo Victor J , Caronna Edoardo , Torres-Ferrus Marta , Pozo-Rosich Patricia
Published: December 2021

Background

Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) have been developed to numerically quantify disability, impact and quality of life. They have been widely used in migraine clinical trials. However, we still do not know which PRO more accurately reflects preventive treatment response from a patient’s perspective or which one may help us with treatment decisions in clinical practice. They have been used to enforce the efficacy results in clinical trials and real-world evidence so far. The aim of this study was to analyze which PROM is (1) better correlated with all primary efficacy endpoints and (2) which one is better associated with treatment continuation with CGRP-mAbs at week-12, which is usually the moment when this decision is made.

Methods

Patients with migraine who had received 3 administrations of CGRP-mAbs were evaluated in this prospective cohort study. Primary efficacy outcomes considered: a change in migraine days (MMD), headache days (MHD), pain intensity (INT), acute medication days (AMD) and 50% responder rate. The Spearman coefficient (rs) was the measure used for quantify the strength of the correlation between PROMs and treatment efficacy outcomes changes. A stepwise logistic regression identified which PROM was independently associated with treatment continuation at week-12.

Results

263 patients completed 12 weeks of treatment. The efficacy outcomes and PROMs scores were statistically significantly reduced at week-12 for all patients. The role function-restrictive (RFR) domain of the Migraine-Specific Quality of Life (MSQ) questionnaire was statistically significantly correlated with all primary efficacy outcomes. Relative changes in MSQ total score (OR[95%]: 0.840[0.619-0.973]; p=0.037) and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) scale (OR[95%]: 15.569[6.254-31.533]; p<0.001) were the PROMs associated with treatment continuation as independent factors at week-12.

Conclusions

Changes in MSQ questionnaire and PGIC scale at week-12 were the PROMs with higher association with CGRP-mAbs response from a patient’s perspective and medical decision-taking.
Comparison of lung image quality between CT Ark and Brilliance 64 CT during COVID-19
Authors: Dai Gonghua , Duan Jiying , Zheng Liang , He Miao , Dai Yanshan , Zhang Mingming , Chu Shuguang
Published: December 2021

Aim

This study is to compare the lung image quality between shelter hospital CT (CT Ark) and ordinary CT scans (Brilliance 64) scans.

Methods

The patients who received scans with CT Ark or Brilliance 64 CT were enrolled. Their lung images were divided into two groups according to the scanner. The objective evaluation methods of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were used. The subjective evaluation methods including the evaluation of the fine structure under the lung window and the evaluation of the general structure under the mediastinum window were compared.Kappamethod was used to assess the reliability of the subjective evaluation. The subjective evaluation results were analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. SNR and CNR were tested using independent samplettests.

Results

There was no statistical difference in somatotype of enrolled subjects. The Kappa value between the two observers was between 0.68 and 0.81, indicating good consistency. For subjective evaluation results, the rank sum test P value of fine structure evaluation and general structure evaluation by the two observers was ≥ 0.05. For objective evaluation results, SNR and CNR between the two CT scanners were significantly different (P<0.05). Notably, the absolute values ​​of SNR and CNR of the CT Ark were larger than Brilliance 64 CT scanner.

Conclusion

CT Ark is fully capable of scanning the lungs of the COVID-19 patients during the epidemic in the shelter hospital.