bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D imaging of moving targets for ultra‐wideband MIMO through‐wall radar system
Authors: Pan Jun , Ye Shengbo , Shi Cheng , Yan Kun , Liu Xin , Ni Zhikang , Yang Guangyao , Fang Guangyou
Published: February 2021

Ultra‐wideband (UWB) radar is widely used in static through‐wall imaging (TWI). There are still many imaging problems of motion through‐wall targets for complex system structure and unknown wall environment. Herein, a motion compensation method based on the reference channel and a modified Kirchhoff migration imaging algorithm are proposed for Ultra‐wideband (UWB) MIMO sparse array, which is used for high‐precision 3D TWI of moving targets. The channels of the MIMO radar are time‐division multiplexing based on microwave switch. Besides, a reference channel is added for motion compensation of moving targets. Performing motion compensation on the target before 3D imaging can effectively avoid the problems of defocus and position deviation caused by target motion. In the proposed imaging method, the backward Green function is used to replace the forward Green function to solve the problem of a large field of view with small arrays. The experiment with a static through‐wall target proves that the proposed imaging algorithm can suppress sidelobes well compared with the traditional back‐projection algorithm (BPA). Through‐wall experiments are carried out for targets with different speeds, and results show that the positioning accuracy and sidelobe level of the proposed compensation method is better than previously proposed methods.
Systemische Familientherapie – eine Einführung
Authors: Pfeifer Claudia
Published: February 2021

Die systemische Familientherapie: Wirkprinzipien, Setting, therapeutische Haltung und konkrete Impulse zum Ablauf einer systemischen Familientherapie nach dem ABIS-Modell. Ein Leitfaden aus der Praxis.
Geschwisterkonstellationen und ihre Bedeutung in der Psychotherapie
Authors: Brock Inés
Published: February 2021

In der Kinder- und Jugendlichenpsychotherapie und in der empirischen Forschung bewegt es ExpertInnen zunehmend, dass der Blick auf die Geschwister der PatientInnen oder der psychisch auffälligen Kinder bisher wenig konzeptualisiert ist und in Lehre und Ausbildung kaum eine Rolle spielt. Im folgenden Beitrag werden Erfahrungswerte zusammengetragen, wie die Geschwisterkonstellation und -beziehung in seelisch heilende Prozesse einzubringen seien.
Familientherapie und Psychodynamische Psychotherapie
Authors: Reich Günter , von Boetticher Antje
Published: February 2021

Psychodynamisch arbeitende TherapeutInnen tun sich oft schwer, mit Paaren und Familien zu arbeiten. Familiendynamische Konzepte (z. B. transgenerationale Aufträge, Loyalitätsdynamik) werden theoretisch anerkannt, finden aber in der Praxis wenig Berücksichtigung. Vielen psychodynamisch arbeitenden KollegInnen ist nicht bekannt, dass auch in der Richtlinienpsychotherapie in größerem Umfang Familien- und Paargespräche durchgeführt werden können.
Fallbericht Paartherapie: Wie viel Nähe darf es sein?
Authors: Dahm-Mory Claudia , Donner Mark , Jahn Beverly , Rottländer Peter
Published: February 2021

Ein multikulturell geprägtes Paar stellt sich zur Paartherapie vor. Nach unruhigen Lebensphasen, durch internationale Umzüge und verschiedene Jobwechsel, sucht das Paar nach Ruhe und Stabilität. Dabei stören Unterschiedlichkeit und Kommunikationsabbrüche die Beziehung.
Systemische Therapie im Versorgungssystem – Innovationen und Herausforderungen
Authors: Schmidt Stefan , Ochs Matthias
Published: February 2021

Die Systemische Therapie hat einen langen Weg hinter sich. Inzwischen kann sie als ambulantes Psychotherapieverfahren durchgeführt werden. Einige Fragen sind allerdings noch offen. Über Innovationen, Reibungsflächen und Stolpersteine bei der Integration der Systemischen Therapie in die ambulante GKV-Versorgung.
Familie mitdenken – Plädoyer für eine Reform zur Familienmedizin und -psychologie
Authors: Wiegand-Grefe Silke , Taczkowski Joana
Published: February 2021

Wir haben in Deutschland ein sehr weit entwickeltes und hoch spezialisiertes Versorgungssystem. Aber: Es krankt daran, dass im Fokus aller Versorgungssysteme ausschließlich individuumszentriert gedacht wird. Hoffnung auf Besserung legen viele Behandelnde in den Innovationsfonds des Gemeinsamen Bundesausschusses.
Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis in a University Tertiary Referral Centre – Clinical Features and Surgical Approaches
Authors: Alfaro Rangel Raul , Lepper Sabine , Szentmáry Nóra , Langenbucher Achim , Seitz Berthold
Published: February 2021

Purpose To assess prevalence, clinical manifestations, required keratoplasties, follow-up, and outcome in patients with Herpes Simplex Virus Keratitis (HSK) attending a University Tertiary Referral Center.

Design Retrospective (12 years), descriptive, observational study.

Methods A total of 817 eyes with clinical diagnosis of HSK from 779 patients were classified by the type of presentation. We gathered data on the visual acuity, refraction, IOP, and required surgical procedures.

Results Stromal involvement including scars represented the most common diagnosis in our department and the main indication of penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Epithelial keratitis (16%) presented with the best visual acuity at the first visit. Necrotizing keratitis represented 17% of the patients, 78% of whom required PKP; this group also had the worst visual acuity at first examination and was the main indication for emergency PKP. Among all eyes, 288 (35%) required PKP. A total of 230 (28%) PKPs were elective procedures and 58 (7%) PKPs were performed as emergency procedures. Two patients with quiet endothelial decompensations after recurrent HSV endotheliitis were treated with DMEK and had good visual outcomes without HSV recurrence at last follow-up.

Conclusions HSK is a prevalent disease with severe consequences when not treated appropriately and on time. Even when making an accurate diagnosis, the disease can be extremely aggressive, with all the implications it brings to the patients and health system. Elective PKP had better outcomes in terms of visual acuity and clear graft percentage compared to emergency PKP.
Comparative Surface Imaging Study of Multifocal Diffractive Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Son Hyeck Soo , Lee Jung Min , Khoramnia Ramin , Choi Chul Young
Published: February 2021

Purpose To analyse and compare the surface topography and roughness of three different types of diffractive multifocal IOLs.

Methods Using scanning electron microscope (SEM, Inspect F, 5.0 KV, maximum magnification up to 20,000) and atomic force microscope (AFM, Park Systems, XE-100, non-contact, area profile comparison, 10 × 10 µm, 40 × 40 µm), the surface quality of the following diffractive IOLs was studied: the AcrySof IQ PanOptix (Alcon, USA), the AT LARA 829MP (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Germany), and Tecnis Symfony (Johnson&Johnson Vision, USA). The measurements were made over three representative areas (central non-diffractive optic, central diffractive optic, and diffractive step) of each IOL. Roughness profile in terms of mean arithmetic roughness (Ra) and root-mean-squared roughness (Rq) values were obtained and compared statistically.

Results In SEM examination, all IOLs showed a smooth optical surface without any irregularities at low magnification. At higher magnification, Tecnis Symfony showed unique highly regular, concentric, and lineate structures in the diffractive optic area which could not be seen in the other studied diffractive IOLs. The differences in the measured Ra and Rq values of the Tecnis Symfony were statistically significant compared to the other models (p < 0.05).

Conclusion Various different topographical traits were observed in three diffractive multifocal IOLs. The Ra values of all studied IOLs were within an acceptable range. Tecnis Symfony showed statistically significant higher surface Ra values at both central diffractive optic and diffractive step areas. Furthermore, compared to its counterparts, Tecnis Symfony demonstrated highly ordered, concentric pattern in its diffractive surfaces.
Intraluminal gas escape from biopsy valves and endoscopic devices during endoscopy: caution advised during the COVID-19 era
Authors: Urakawa Shinya , Hirashita Teijiro , Momose Kota , Nishimura Makoto , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Milsom Jeffrey W.
Published: February 2021

Background and study aims The risk of aerosolization of body fluids during endoscopic procedures should be evaluated during the COVID-19 era, as this may contribute to serious disease transmission. Here, we aimed to investigate if use of endoscopic tools during flexible endoscopy may permit gas leakage from the scope or tools.

Material and methods Using a fresh 35-cm porcine rectal segment, a colonoscope tip, and manometer were placed intraluminally at opposite ends of the segment. The colonoscope handle, including the biopsy valve, was submerged in a water bath. Sequentially, various endoscopic devices (forceps, clips, snares, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) knives) were inserted into the biopsy valve, simultaneously submerging the device handle in a water bath. The bowel was slowly inflated up to 74.7 mmHg (40 inH2O) and presence of gas leakage, leak pressure, and gas leakage volume were measured.

Results Gas leakage was observed from the biopsy valve upon insertion and removal of all endoscopic device tips with jaws, even at 0 mmHg (60/60 trials). The insertion angle of the tool affected extent of gas leakage. In addition, gas leakage was observed from the device handles (8 of 10 devices) with continuous gas leakage at low pressures, especially two snares at 0 mmHg, and an injectable ESD knife at 0.7 ± 0.8 mmHg).

Conclusions Gas leakage from the biopsy valve and device handles commonly occur during endoscopic procedures. We recommend protective measures be considered during use of any tools during endoscopy.
Impact of simple, specific, verbal instructions on the quality of bowel preparation in hospitalized patients undergoing colonoscopy: a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Gkolfakis Paraskevas , Skamnelos Alexandros , Diamantopoulou Georgia , Dagas Athanasios , Tziatzios Georgios , Thomopoulos Konstantinos , Potamianos Spyros , Christodoulou Dimitrios
Published: February 2021

Background and study aims Bowel preparation for colonoscopy is frequently inadequate in hospitalized patients. We explored the impact of specific verbal instructions on the quality of inpatients bowel preparation and factors associated with preparation failure.

Patients and methods Randomized (1:1), two strata (mobilized vs. bedridden; 3:2) trial of consecutive inpatients from four tertiary centers, who received either specific, verbal instructions or the standard of care (SOC) ward instructions about bowel preparation. The rate of adequate bowel preparation (Boston Bowel Preparation Score [BBPS] ≥ 6, no segment < 2) comprised the primary endpoint. Mean BBPS score, good (BBPS score ≥ 7, no segment score < 2) and excellent (BBPS = 9) were among secondary endpoints.

Results We randomized 300 inpatients (180 mobile) aged 71.7 ± 15.1 years in the intervention (49.7 %) and SOC (50.3 %) groups, respectively. Overall, more patients in the intervention group achieved adequate bowel preparation, but this difference did not reach statistical significance neither in the intention-to-treat [90/149 (60.4 %) vs. 82/151 (54.3 %); P = 0.29] nor in the per-protocol analysis [90/129 (69.8 %) vs. 82/132 (62.1 %); P = 0.19]. Overall BBPS score did not differ statistical significantly in the two groups, but the provision of specific verbal instructions was associated with significant higher rates of good (58.1 % vs. 43.2 %; P = 0.02) and excellent (31.8 % vs. 16.7 %; P = 0.004) bowel preparation compared to the SOC group. Administration of same-day bowel preparation and patient American Society of Anesthesiologists score > 2 were identified as risk factors for inadequate bowel preparation.

Conclusions Provision of specific verbal instructions did not increase the rate of adequate bowel preparation in a population of mobilized and bedridden hospitalized patients.
Gesundheitsressourcen von Altenpflegepersonal – Ergebnisse einer Querschnittsstudie
Authors: Gutsch Carolin , Brinkmann Lisa , Frahm Gesa , Otto Ann-Kathrin , Bischoff Laura Luise , Fenger Annika , Wollesen Bettina
Published: February 2021

Ziel der Studie Altenpflegekräfte sind hohen Arbeitsbelastungen ausgesetzt, die häufig zu Stress, Arbeitsunfähigkeit und frühzeitigem Berufsausstieg führen. Persönliche Ressourcen können Arbeitsanforderungen ausgleichen und gesundheitsförderlich wirken. Um Interventionsmaßnahmen zu entwickeln, untersucht diese Studie welche Ressourcen Altenpflegekräfte besitzen und wie sich diese auf die Stressentstehung auswirken.

Methodik N=195 Altenpflegekräfte (87,4% weiblich, 40,1±12,2 Jahre). Die Datenerhebung erfolgte mittels validiertem Fragebogen, bestehend aus dem Fragebogen nach Slesina, dem Nordischen Fragebogen, dem SF-12, persönlichen Ressourcen (nach WHO-Kriterien), dem AVEM sowie der SSCS-Skala aus dem TICS, in deren Abhängigkeit die Altenpflegekräfte in gestresst und nicht-gestresst unterteilt wurden. Eine vierstufige Regressionsanalyse untersuchte in der Folge Einflussfaktoren auf die Stressentstehung.

Ergebnisse Nicht-gestresste Altenpflegekräfte fühlten sich durch arbeitsbezogene Belastungsfaktoren weniger belastet, hatten geringere körperliche Beschwerden, besaßen ein besseres körperliches (p <0,001) und psychisches Wohlbefinden (p <0,001), stärkere persönliche Ressourcen und verfügten über ein besseres Arbeitsbewältigungsverhalten. Die Regressionsanalyse zeigte, dass Ressourcen wie die Zufriedenheit mit dem Gesundheitszustand, das Ernährungsverhalten, Ruhe und Gelassenheit, das Energielevel der vergangenen Wochen sowie das persönliche Stresserleben das körperliche und psychische Wohlbefinden verbessern, jedoch bei einem manifestierten gesundheitsriskantem Arbeitsbewältigungsverhalten die Stressentstehung nicht abmildern können (R²=0,760).

Schlussfolgerung Bei der Entwicklung von Stresspräventionsmaßnahmen sollte die Stärkung persönlicher Ressourcen im Vordergrund stehen und arbeitsbezogene Verhaltens- und Erlebensmuster berücksichtig werden.
Goldimplantation: Neue Therapieform bei schmerzhafter Arthrose
Authors: Endrizzi Melanie
Published: February 2021

Schmerzhafte Arthrose bildet ein häufiges Problem mit zunehmendem Lebensalter. Die konventionellen Therapien bringen nicht bei allen Patienten die erhofften Behandlungserfolge.

Die noch relativ junge Therapieform der Goldimplantation bietet eine zusätzliche Möglichkeit, die Beschwerden zu lindern. Dabei werden in Lokalanästhesie ca. 2 mm lange 24-karätige Feingolddrahtstücke um das schmerzende Gelenk herum implantiert. Erfahrungen aus der Praxis zeigen, dass die Therapie komplikationsarm und gut verträglich ist. Entzündungen im Gelenk, Schwellungen und Schmerzen werden reduziert. Als Wirkmechanismus werden entzündungshemmende Eigenschaften des Goldes vermutet. Praxiserfahrungen und erste Untersuchungen zeigen, dass die Goldimplantation bei Arthroseschmerzen und Bewegungseinschränkungen eine effektive und sichere Methode sein kann.

Die Autorin erläutert anhand eines Fallberichts aus ihrer Praxis das Vorgehen und die möglichen Erfolge.
Clinical Course and Treatment Paradigms for JIA-related Uveitis and Pars Planitis Uveitis Using Precise Ocular Investigational Methods
Authors: Papasavvas Ioannis , Gehrig Béatrice , Herbort Carl Peter
Published: February 2021

Purpose The aim of this study was to report on the disease course and management modalities in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis-related uveitis (JIA uveitis) or intermediate uveitis of the pars planitis type (PP) who were followed up using precise ocular investigational techniques.

Methods This is a retrospective single-centre study. All charts of patients seen in our centre over 15 years (2005 – 2019) with a diagnosis of JIA uveitis or PP were retrieved and analysed for clinical course, severity of inflammation, type of management, and the role played by precise investigational techniques (laser flare photometry [LFP], optical coherence tomography [OCT] and fluorescein angiography [FA]) in therapeutic decisions.

Results 26 out of a total of 64 patients with sufficient data could be included in the study. Mean age was 11.2 years (SD ± 5.4). 13/26 (50%) patients presented with JIA uveitis and 13/26 (50%) with PP. PP patients had a more benign course (mean LFP values at presentation 9.9 ± 3.2 ph/ms), and at the end of follow-up, only 2/13 PP patients (15%) still needed systemic treatment. In contrast, JIA uveitis as a whole was more severe, although benign forms were present (LFP values at presentation 105.9 ± 19.5 ph/ms), and at the end of follow-up, 5/13 patients (38%) still needed systemic treatment. Complications were also more severe and frequent in JIA uveitis patients. In 6/26 patients (24%, 3 JIA and 3 PP patients), the precise monitoring methods allowed unjustified systemic treatment to be discontinued, and to avoid such a treatment, it was recommended that it should be replaced by topical treatment or observation.

Conclusion Nowadays, new investigational techniques have made precise follow-up of uveitis possible. We determined the precise inflammatory pattern of JIA uveitis and PP, which is crucial information to determine the therapeutic intervention. As these two entities are common in young and paediatric patients, such precise monitoring is essential to determine adequate treatment paradigms and avoid unnecessary systemic treatment, especially corticosteroids. When the ophthalmic status requires it, multidisciplinary collaboration between the ophthalmologist, the paediatrician and the rheumatologist may be needed to offer optimal management to the patient. In cases of purely ocular involvement, it is the ophthalmologist who should determine the management.
Tratamento artroscópico do impacto femoroacetabular na epifisiólise capital femoral proximal: Relato de caso
Authors: Pedroni Marco Antonio , Schuroff Ademir Antonio , Chang Rafael Wei Min Leal , Batista Bruno Bellaguarda
Published: February 2021

A epifisiólise capital femoral proximal (ECFP) pode resultar em impacto femoroacetabular (IFA) do quadril em até um terço dos casos. A deformidade residual em came ou “cabo de pistola” está associada a lesão condrolabral, resultando em dor, incapacidade funcional, e osteoartrose precoce. O tratamento artroscópico com osteocondroplastia mostrou-se benéfico em um caso selecionado de IFA secundário a ECFP.
Pediatric Patient with Lemierre Syndrome of the External Jugular Vein: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Schwarz Yehuda , Habashi Nadeem , Rosenfeld-Yehoshua Noa , Soikher Eugene , Marom Tal , Tamir Sharon Ovnat
Published: February 2021

Introduction Lemierre syndrome (LS) involving the external jugular vein (EJV) is rare, and only a few cases have been reported in the literature.

Objectives To report a case of LS involving the external jugular vein as well as to make a review of the literature regarding both diagnosis and management strategies.

Data Synthesis We describe a case of LS involving the EJV and review the literature of previously published articles to search for additional cases. A PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of science-based search was performed to determine the scope of coverage in well-reported articles in English. Twenty-one papers were retrieved and documented for age, incidence, pathogen, presenting symptoms, imaging, treatment, and outcome, which were noted for each of these cases. In our literature review of 21 papers, there were 16 patients (61%) in their 2nd and 3rd decades of life. Lemierre syndrome was shown to affect females and males equally. The presenting symptoms were a sore throat and fever. Treatment requires intravenous antibiotics, and there is no consensus regarding treatment with anticoagulation.

Conclusions The present case report and review of the literature emphasize the importance of history taking as well as physical examination in what seems to be a case of simple tonsillitis.
Avaliação do estado nutricional e correlação com complicações cirúrgicas em pacientes idosos submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico de fratura do fêmur proximal
Authors: Dias Tiane Raquel da Silva , Batista Bruno Bellaguarda , Chang Rafael Wei Min Leal , Noriega Jorge Enrique Acosta , Figueiredo Giuseppe Lemos Pertoti de
Published: February 2021

Objetivo Avaliar e correlacionar o estado nutricional com possíveis complicações no pós-operatório imediato de pacientes submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico de fraturas de fêmur proximal.

Métodos Estudo transversal prospectivo analítico e de abordagem quantitativa, tendo como população-alvo pacientes com idade igual ou superior a 60 anos, internados em uma instituição hospitalar no Amazonas, submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico de fraturas de fêmur proximal. Foram avaliadas as complicações cirúrgicas no pós-operatório imediato e sua relação com o estado nutricional através da mini avaliação nutricional (MAN), assim como a mensuração da contagem de linfócitos e albumina e a sua correlação com o tempo de internação.

Resultados A amostra foi composta por 19 pacientes idosos, de ambos os sexos, com média de idade de 70,8 anos. A maioria dos pacientes (68,4%) eram do sexo feminino. Por meio da variável antropométrica índice de massa corporal (IMC), identificou-se a presença de desnutrição em 15,8% dos pacientes e, por meio da MAN, de 31,6%. Na avaliação do cálculo da contagem total de linfócitos, 100% da amostra apresentou associação positiva com desnutrição em graus variáveis e, fazendo-se uso da albumina sérica como parâmetro, a desnutrição foi identificada em 89,4%. Os pacientes desnutridos apresentaram a maior média de tempo de internação. As complicações cirúrgicas, por infecções do sítio cirúrgico, ocorreram em 10,5% nos pacientes em risco nutricional.

Conclusão Neste estudo, observou-se maior índice de complicações no pós-operatório em idosos diagnosticados com desnutrição.
Quality of Life in Patients with Nasal Obstruction after Septoplasty: A Single Institution Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Dąbrowska-Bień Justyna , Skarżyński Henryk , Górski Sebastian Filip , Skarżyński Piotr Henryk
Published: February 2021

Introduction Nasal obstruction is a common symptom in otorhinolaryngological practice. It can impact significantly on the quality of life of the individual.

Objective The primary goal of the present study was to evaluate quality of life after septoplasty in adults with nasal obstruction. A secondary goal was to assess the effectiveness of septoplasty.

Methods This was a single institution prospective observational study. Patients had experienced septal deviation and symptomatic nasal obstruction with no benefit from medical treatment. There were 51 patients who completed the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE-POL) scale as well as theVisual Analogue Scale (VAS) before undergoing septoplasty, 3 months later, and finally 7 months after surgery. Patients evaluated changes in their nasal obstruction and changes in their quality of life using the Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGI-S).

Results There was a significant improvement in nasal obstruction after septoplasty. Before septoplasty, the mean score on NOSE was 60.3 ± 20.4; 3 months after surgery, it was 32.9 ± 16.8; and 7 months after surgery it was 39.6 ± 33.2. The VAS results also proved a significant enhancement in nasal obstruction after septoplasty. Patients reported an improvement in nasal obstruction as well as a positive change in quality of life, confirming the effectiveness of septoplasty.

Conclusions In patients with deformed septum, septoplasty contributes to high satisfaction of the patient and a compelling improvement in disease-specific quality of life. The NOSE-POL questionnaire is a useful tool for measuring the outcomes of this procedure.
Predictive Factors of Recurrence of Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinomas: Analysis of 2,538 Patients
Authors: Carvalho Andre de Ywata , Kohler Hugo Fontan , Gomes Camila Couto , Vartanian José Guilherme , Kowalski Luiz Paulo
Published: February 2021

Introduction The incidence of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) has increased, and its treatment remains controversial.

Objective To identify the clinical and pathological factors predictive of tumor recurrence.

Methods We retrospectively analyzed 2,538 consecutive patients treated for PTMC, most submitted to total thyroidectomy (98%) followed by radioactive iodine (RAI) ablation (51.7%) at a cancer center from 1996 to 2015. The patients were stratified according to the American Thyroid Association (ATA) risk categories (low, intermediate, or high), and the clinicopathological features were evaluated by multivariate Cox regression analysis to identify independent prognostic factors for recurrence.

Results After a mean follow-up of 58 months (range: 3 to 236.5 months), tumor recurrence was diagnosed in 63 (2.5%) patients, mostly in the lymph nodes. Distant metastasis occurred in 2 (0.1%) patients. There were no cancer-related deaths. The multivariate analysis showed that age < 55 years (p = 0.049; hazard ratio [HR]: 2.54; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.95 to 0.99), multifocality (p = 0.032; HR: 1.76; 95%CI: 1.05 to 2.96), and the presence of lymph-node metastasis (p < 0.001; HR: 3.69; 95%CI: 2.07–6.57) were independent risk factors for recurrence. Recurrence was observed in 29 (1.5%) out of 1,940 low-risk patients, 32 (5.4%) out of 590 intermediate-risk patients, and in 2 (25%) out of 8 high-risk patients.

Conclusions The prognosis of PTMC is excellent, favoring a conservative treatment for most patients. Age < 55 years, multifocality, and node metastasis at diagnosis, as well the ATA staging system effectively predict the risk of recurrence. The presence of these risk factors can help identify patients who should be considered for more aggressive management and more frequent follow-up.
Van Buchem Disease: First Case Report from the Indian Subcontinent with an Early Presentation
Authors: Maheshwari Saurabh , Yangzom Sonam , Bhanu K. Uday , Rajesh Uddandam , Narayan Ashok
Published: February 2021

Van Buchem disease is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder that causes a compromised inhibitory feedback mechanism resulting in increased bone formation and overgrowth of the skeleton leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. It has been reported in less than 50 patients most of which were in western Europe. We report the first case of this condition from the Indian subcontinent with an early presentation. This patient presented with a global delay in attaining the developmental milestones and progressive reduction in visual acuity and loss of hearing. He had dysmorphic facies, multiple cranial nerve palsies, and severe visual and auditory deficits. Imaging revealed sclerosing bone dysplasia. This case illustrates the clinical and imaging findings of this rare condition.
Atualização no tratamento da hérnia discal cervical: Manejo conservador e indicações de diferentes técnicas cirúrgicas
Authors: Silva Luis Eduardo Carelli Teixeira da , Almeida Luiz Eduardo Pereira Costa Assis de
Published: February 2021

A dor cervical e radicular devido à hérnia de disco é uma causa comum de uma visita a um cirurgião ortopédico. É importante saber diagnosticar, tratar e inicialmente.

Quais são as melhores opções para tratar a hérnia de disco hoje em dia? Este artigo faz uma revisão da literatura e atualização sobre o tratamento clínico e cirúrgico da herniação do disco cervical.
Lack of Molecular Mimicry between Nonhuman Primates and Infectious Pathogens: The Possible Genetic Bases
Authors: Kanduc Darja
Published: February 2021

Recently, it was found that proteomes from poliovirus, measles virus, dengue virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome-related Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have high molecular mimicry at the heptapeptide level with the human proteome, while heptapeptide commonality is minimal or absent with proteomes from nonhuman primates, that is, gorilla, chimpanzee, and rhesus macaque. To acquire more data on the issue, analyses here have been expanded to Ebola virus, Francisella tularensis, human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), Toxoplasma gondii, Variola virus, and Yersinia pestis. Results confirm that heptapeptide overlap is high between pathogens and Homo sapiens, but not between pathogens and primates. Data are discussed in light of the possible genetic bases that differently model primate phenomes, thus possibly underlying the zero/low level of molecular mimicry between infectious agents and primates. Notably, this study might help address preclinical vaccine tests that currently utilize primates as animal models, since autoimmune cross-reactions and the consequent adverse events cannot occur in absentia of shared sequences.
Percentile Charts for Body Mass Index of Indian Down Syndrome Children
Authors: Kaur Harvinder , Bhalla Anil Kumar , Panigrahi Inusha
Published: February 2021

Growth charts are used to detect growth impairment, overweight, and obesity among Down syndrome (DS) children belonging to different population groups. Due to nonavailability of similar information, age, and gender specific body mass index (BMI) charts for DS children of Indian origin, based on serial data, have been developed. A total of 752 boys and 373 girls diagnosed as cases of DS at <1 month to 10 years of age enrolled from the “genetic clinic” were followed up in the “growth clinic/growth laboratory” of the institute, following a mixed-longitudinal growth research design. BMI was calculated from body weight and length/height measured at 6-month-age intervals by using standardized techniques and instruments. Age and sex-specific percentile growth charts for BMI were generated for age range <1 month to 10 years by using the LMS method. DS children remained wasted (BMI <3rd percentile) up to 6 months of age; thereafter, BMI increased to exhibit close similarity with their normal Multicentre Growth Reference Study (World Health Organization 2006) and Indian Academy of Pediatrics (2015) counterparts up to 5 to 10 years, respectively. The percentage of obese DS girls (8.76%) outnumbered boys with DS (4.1%). The use of age and gender specific BMI growth charts may be made for comparative purpose, to assess nutritional status of Indian children with DS, to initiate suitable need-based intervention to improve their overall health and for timely institution of target interventions to prevent growth faltering in this vulnerable population.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of SiCp/AZ91 composite processed with extrusion and EPT
Authors: Wu Hongfei , Shan Zhaohui , Fan Jianfeng , Zhang Qiang , Deng Kunkun , Wu Yucheng , Li Weiguo , Dong Hongbiao , Xu Bingshe
Published: February 2021

By hot extrusion at 250°C and electrical pulse treatment (EPT) of 40 μs duration and 10 min processing time, a homogeneous matrix microstructure with an average grain size of 0.91 μm and abundant Mg17Al12 phase was obtained in SiCp/AZ91 magnesium matrix composite. Moreover, SiCp were helpful to promote the accumulation of crystal defects and the precipitation of Mg17Al12 phase. After extrusion at 250°C, the yield strength (YS) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the composite reached 480 and 556 MPa, respectively. With the increase of the duration and the processing time, the YS and UTS of SiCp/AZ91 composite were reduced due to the softening effect of static recrystallisation but its tensile elongation to failure (TEF) was improved slightly.
An Exploration of Risk and Protective Characteristics of Violent Youth Offenders in Singapore across Adolescent Developmental Stages
Authors: Koh Li Lian , Day Andrew , Klettke Bianca , Daffern Michael , Chu Chi Meng
Published: February 2021

The risk and protective factors in a sample of 224 Singaporean youths who have engaged in violence are investigated using the SAVRY the VRS-YV, and the SAPROF-YV. Youths in the early and middle stages of adolescence exhibited more risk factors and fewer protective factors than late stage adolescents. This may be due to cultural and societal influences as well as maturation processes which guide the development of risk and protective factors over the course of adolescence. These findings highlight the importance of developing treatment programs for violent youth that are developmentally matched and which address specific areas of need.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Kroemer Guido , Zitvogel Laurence
Published: February 2021

Three papers by James Allison and Tasuku Honjo published in JEM between 1995 and 2000 crystallized seminal insights into the role of CTLA-4 and PD-1 in immunosuppression (Krummel and Allison. 1995. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.182.2.459; van Elsas et al. 1999. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.190.3.355; Freeman et al. 2000. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.192.7.1027). These papers laid the basis for modern cancer immunotherapy and led to a shared 2018 Nobel Prize.
Interface water-induced hydrophobic carbon chain unfolding in water
Authors: Xie Zhang , Li Zheng , Lou Gang , Liang Qing , Chen Jiang-Xing , Kou Jianlong , Wei Gui-Na
Published: February 2021

The folding and unfolding of the carbon chain, which is the basic constitutional unit of polymers, are important to the performance of the material. However, it is difficult to regulate conformational transition of the carbon chain, especially in an aqueous environment. In this paper, we propose a strategy to regulate the conformational transition of the carbon chain in water based on the all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. It is shown that the unfolded carbon chain will spontaneously collapse into the folded state, while the folded carbon chain will unfold with an external electric field. The regulation ability of the electric field is attributed to the electric field-induced redistribution of interface water molecules near the carbon chain. The demonstrated method of regulating conformational transition of the carbon chain in water in this study provides an insight into regulating hydrophobic molecules in water, and has great potential in drug molecule design and new polymer material development.
Ecological phylogeography and coalescent models suggest a linear population expansion ofAnastrepha fraterculus(Diptera: Tephritidae) in southern South America
Authors: Vilardi Juan César , Freilij Damián , Ferreyra Laura Inés , Gómez-Cendra Paula
Published: February 2021

This work is a first approach to an integrated view of the genetics, ecology and dispersion patterns of Anastrepha fraterculus in southern South America. We studied the association of genetic variation with geographical patterns and environmental variables to provide insight into the crucial factors that drive the structure and dynamics of fly populations. Data from a 417 bp mitochondrial COII gene fragment from seven Argentinian populations and one South Brazilian population (from five ecoregions grouped in three biomes) were used to identify population clusters using a model-based Bayesian phylogeographical and ecological clustering approach. The sequences were also analysed under a coalescent model to evaluate historical demographic changes. We identified 19 different haplotypes and two clusters differing in all the environmental covariables. The assumption of neutral evolution and constant population size was rejected, and the population growth parameters suggested a linear population expansion starting 2500 years before present. The most likely ancestral location is Posadas, from where A. fraterculus would have expanded southwards and westwards in Argentina. This result is consistent with Holocene changes and anthropic factors related to the expansion of the Tupí–Guaraní culture, 3000–1500 years before present.
Racial disparity in curative treatment and survival from solid-organ cancers
Authors: Kamarajah S K , Sylla P , Markar S R
Published: February 2021

Lay summary

Race is an important prognostic factor affecting receipt of surgical intervention and survival from cancer in the USA. The findings of this study highlight the importance of implementing changes aimed at narrowing the disparities in outcomes between race in patients with cancers.
A delta-secretase-truncated APP fragment activates CEBPB, mediating Alzheimer’s disease pathologies
Authors: Yao Yinan , Kang Seong Su , Xia Yiyuan , Wang Zhi-Hao , Liu Xia , Muller Thorsten , Sun Yi E , Ye Keqiang
Published: February 2021

Amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) is sequentially cleaved by secretases and generates amyloid-β, the major components in senile plaques in Alzheimer’s disease. APP is upregulated in human Alzheimer’s disease brains. However, the molecular mechanism of how APP contributes to Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Here we show that truncated APP C586-695 fragment generated by δ-secretase directly binds to CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein beta (CEBPB), an inflammatory transcription factor, and enhances its transcriptional activity, escalating Alzheimer’s disease-related gene expression and pathogenesis. The APP C586-695 fragment, but not full-length APP, strongly associates with CEBPB and elicits its nuclear translocation and augments the transcriptional activities on APP itself, MAPT (microtubule-associated protein tau), δ-secretase and inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression, finally triggering Alzheimer’s disease pathology and cognitive disorder in a viral overexpression mouse model. Blockade of δ-secretase cleavage of APP by mutating the cleavage sites reduces its stimulatory effect on CEBPB, alleviating amyloid pathology and cognitive dysfunctions. Clearance of APP C586-695 from 5xFAD mice by antibody administration mitigates Alzheimer’s disease pathologies and restores cognitive functions. Thus, in addition to the sequestration of amyloid-β, APP implicates in Alzheimer’s disease pathology by activating CEBPB upon δ-secretase cleavage.
General rogue waves in the three-wave resonant interaction systems
Authors: Yang Bo , Yang Jianke
Published: February 2021

General rogue waves in (1+1)-dimensional three-wave resonant interaction systems are derived by the bilinear method. These solutions are divided into three families, which correspond to a simple root, two simple roots and a double root of a certain quartic equation arising from the dimension reduction, respectively. It is shown that while the first family of solutions associated with a simple root exists for all signs of the nonlinear coefficients in the three-wave interaction equations, the other two families of solutions associated with two simple roots and a double root can only exist in the so-called soliton-exchange case, where the nonlinear coefficients have certain signs. Many of these rogue wave solutions, such as those associated with two simple roots, the ones generated by a $2\times 2$ block determinant in the double-root case, and higher-order solutions associated with a simple root, are new solutions which have not been reported before. Technically, our bilinear derivation of rogue waves for the double-root case is achieved by a generalization to the previous dimension reduction procedure in the bilinear method, and this generalized procedure allows us to treat roots of arbitrary multiplicities. Dynamics of the derived rogue waves is also examined, and new rogue wave patterns are presented. Connection between these bilinear rogue waves and those derived earlier by Darboux transformation is also explained.
Gender, Justice and Deliberation: Why Women Don't Influence Peacemaking
Authors: Kostovicova Denisa , Paskhalis Tom
Published: February 2021

Scholars have pinpointed that women's underrepresentation in peacemaking results in gendered outcomes that do not address women's needs and interests. Despite recent increased representation at the negotiating table, women still have a limited influence on peacemaking outcomes. We propose that differences in female and male speeches reflected in the gendered patterns in discourse during peacemaking explain how women's influence is curtailed. We examine women's speaking behavior in transitional justice debates in the post-conflict Balkans. Applying multimethod quantitative text analysis to over half a million words in multiple languages, we analyze structural and thematic speech patterns. We find that men's domination of turn-taking and the absence of topics reflecting women's needs and interests lead to a gendered outcome. The sequences of men talking after men are longer than those of women talking after women, which restricts women's deliberative space and opportunities to develop and sustain arguments that reflect their concerns. We find no evidence that women's limited influence is driven by lower deliberative quality of their speeches. This study of gendered dynamics at the microlevel of discourse identifies a novel dimension of male domination during peacemaking.
Educational Strategies to Achieve Equitable Breast Imaging Care
Authors: Davis Katie M , Monga Natasha , Sonubi Chiamaka , Asumu Hazel , DeBenedectis Carolynn M , Spalluto Lucy B
Published: February 2021

As the population of the United States becomes increasingly diverse, radiologists must learn to both understand and mitigate the impact of health disparities. Significant health disparities persist in radiologic care, including breast imaging. Racial and ethnic minorities, women from lower socioeconomic status, those living in rural areas, and the uninsured bear a disproportionate burden of breast cancer morbidity and mortality. Currently, there is no centralized radiology curriculum focusing on breast health disparities available to residents, breast imaging fellows, or practicing breast radiologists. While patient-, provider-, and system-level initiatives are necessary to overcome disparities, our purpose is to describe educational strategies targeted to breast imaging radiologists at all levels to provide equitable care to a diverse population. These strategies may include, but are not limited to, diversifying the breast imaging workforce, understanding the needs of a diverse population, cultural sensitivity and bias training, and fostering awareness of the existing issues in screening mammography access, follow-up imaging, and clinical care.
Cosmic rays across the star-forming galaxy sequence – II. Stability limits and the onset of cosmic ray-driven outflows
Authors: Crocker Roland M , Krumholz Mark R , Thompson Todd A
Published: February 2021

Cosmic rays (CRs) are a plausible mechanism for launching winds of cool material from the discs of star-forming galaxies. However, there is no consensus on what types of galaxies likely host CR-driven winds, or what role these winds might play in regulating galaxies’ star formation rates. Using a detailed treatment of the transport and losses of hadronic CRs developed in the previous paper in this series, here we develop a semi-analytical model that allows us to assess the viability of using CRs to launch cool winds from galactic discs. In particular, we determine the critical CR fluxes – and corresponding star formation rate surface densities – above which hydrostatic equilibrium within a given galaxy is precluded because CRs drive the gas off in a wind or otherwise render it unstable. Our model demonstrates that catastrophic, CR-driven wind loss is a possibility at galactic mean surface densities below ${\lesssim}10^2 \ \mathrm{ M}_{\odot }$ pc−2. In this regime – encompassing the Galaxy and local dwarfs – the locus of the CR-stability curve patrols the high side of the observed distribution of galaxies in the Kennicutt–Schmidt parameter space of star formation rate versus gas surface density. However, hadronic losses render CRs unable to drive global winds in galaxies with surface densities above the ∼102−103 M⊙ pc−2 transition region. Our results show that quiescent, low surface density galaxies like the Milky Way are poised on the cusp of instability, such that small changes to interstellar mass (ISM) parameters can lead to the launching of CR-driven outflows, and we suggest that, as a result, CR feedback sets an ultimate limit to the star formation efficiency of most modern galaxies.
Sturnira hondurensis(Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)
Authors: Hernández-Canchola Giovani , Ortega Jorge , León-Paniagua Livia
Published: February 2021

The Honduran yellow-shouldered bat (Sturnira hondurensis Goodwin, 1940) is a medium-sized Stenodermatinae with a vestigial uropatagium and no tail; it typically has reddish or yellowish patches on the shoulders. It is found in temperate habitats from Mexico to northern Nicaragua, and it is one of 24 described species of the genus Sturnira. S. hondurensis is considered a common species and is listed as “Least Concern” (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Nevertheless, it primarily depends on the preservation of native and continuous forest, so maintaining the connectivity of vegetation patches and the availability of food in modified landscapes are strategies for the preservation of S. hondurensis and the ecosystem services that it provides.
Long-read sequencing and de novo genome assemblies reveal complex chromosome end structures caused by telomere dysfunction at the single nucleotide level
Authors: Kim Eunkyeong , Kim Jun , Kim Chuna , Lee Junho
Published: February 2021

Karyotype change and subsequent evolution is triggered by chromosome fusion and rearrangement events, which often occur when telomeres become dysfunctional. Telomeres protect linear chromosome ends from DNA damage responses (DDRs), and telomere dysfunction may result in genome instability. However, the complex chromosome end structures and the other possible consequences of telomere dysfunction have rarely been resolved at the nucleotide level due to the lack of the high-throughput methods needed to analyse these highly repetitive regions. Here we applied long-read sequencing technology to Caenorhabditis elegans survivor lines that emerged after telomere dysfunction. The survivors have preserved traces of DDRs in their genomes and our data revealed that variants generated by telomere dysfunction are accumulated along all chromosomes. The reconstruction of the chromosome end structures through de novo genome assemblies revealed diverse types of telomere damage processing at the nucleotide level. When telomeric repeats were totally eroded by telomere dysfunction, DDRs were mostly terminated by chromosome fusion events. We also partially reconstructed the most complex end structure and its DDR signatures, which would have been accumulated via multiple cell divisions. These finely resolved chromosome end structures suggest possible mechanisms regarding the repair processes after telomere dysfunction, providing insights into chromosome evolution in nature.
Is There Still a Place for Tocilizumab in Coronavirus Disease 2019?
Authors: Klopfenstein Timothée , Conrozier Thierry , Kadiane-Oussou N’dri Juliette , Gendrin Vincent , Zayet Souheil
Published: February 2021

In this article, we sought to summarize the available evidence of tocilizumab as a treatment for coronavirus disease 2019. Recent tocilizumab randomized trials have not shown clear evidence of efficacy, especially on mortality, in contrast to observational studies. These clinical trials focus on a heterogeneous population of patients (clinical severity and inflammatory stage), and this is possibly one of the reasons that explain heterogeneity of results. However, these same trials have shown some evidence that tocilizumab may reduce intensive care unit admissions and/or mechanical ventilation incidence, which are huge challenges in the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic. Future clinical trials with primary endpoint built on this assumption are needed (1) to confirm whether tocilizumab reduces mechanical ventilation requirement and (2) to describe the right patient population and optimal timing for tocilizumab administration. Finding the optimal timing for tocilizumab administration and the group of patients who are susceptible to having the greatest benefit are probably the main challenge.