bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospital Contacts for Psychiatric Disorders in Parents of Children With Cancer in Denmark
Authors: Mader Luzius , Frederiksen Line Elmerdahl , Bidstrup Pernille Envold , Hargreave Marie , Kjær Susanne K , Kuehni Claudia E , Nielsen Thomas Tjørnelund , Krøyer Anja , Winther Jeanette Falck , Erdmann Friederike
Published: April 2021

Background

Having a child diagnosed with cancer is a devastating experience that may affect parents’ mental health. We aimed to assess the risk of hospital contacts for psychiatric disorders in parents of children with cancer.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide population-based cohort study using Danish registry data. Parents of children diagnosed with cancer between 1982 and 2014 (n = 6689 mothers, n = 5509 fathers) were matched with comparison parents of cancer-free children (n = 67 544 mothers, n = 55 756 fathers). We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate the risk of hospital contacts for any psychiatric disorder and specific disorders. Cox models were also used to investigate sociodemographic and cancer-related risk factors for psychiatric disorders.

Results

Incidence rates of hospital contacts for any psychiatric disorder were 426 per 100 000 person-years in mothers of children with cancer and 345 per 100 000 person-years in comparison mothers. For fathers, the respective incidence rates were 260 and 262 cases per 100 000 person-years. Compared with parents of cancer-free children, mothers of children with cancer were at an increased risk of hospital contacts for any psychiatric disorder (hazard ratio = 1.23, 95% confidence interval = 1.12 to 1.36), whereas no elevated risk was seen in fathers (hazard ratio = 0.99, 95% confidence interval = 0.87 to 1.13). Among mothers, risks were particularly elevated for affective and stress-related disorders. Parents of deceased children and children diagnosed at a younger age were at particular risk of hospital contacts for psychiatric disorders.

Conclusion

Hospital contacts for psychiatric disorders were overall rare. Health-care professionals should draw attention to subgroups of vulnerable parents to meet their needs of support and adequate treatment.
Parietal peritoneal lipomas: a first case report of two lipomas of the parietal peritoneum
Authors: Pillay Yagan
Published: April 2021

Parietal peritoneal lipomas are a rare surgical entity with seven case reports in the published literature. Their aetiology remains nebulous and includes theories such as misplaced embryonic tissue, adipose hyperproliferation, trauma and fat herniation or excessive obesity. This is the first case report in the literature with two parietal peritoneal lipomas incarcerated in an umbilical hernia. We strongly advocate for an international rare tumour registry, given the sparsity of data on these tumours and their possible malignant potential, which we believe would help potentiate an effective treatment protocol for future cases.
The application of machine learning to predictions of optical turbulence in the surface layer at Baikal Astrophysical Observatory
Authors: Bolbasova L A , Andrakhanov A A , Shikhovtsev A Yu
Published: April 2021

In this study, we apply machine learning to predict optical turbulence in the surface layer at the Baikal Astrophysical Observatory. Advance knowledge of optical turbulence is important for maximizing the efficiency of adaptive optics systems, telescope operations, and the scheduling of the planned observations. Typically, optical turbulence is characterized by the structure constant of the refractive index of air $C_n^2$. The Monin–Obukhov similarity theory (MOST) provides a scientific basis for estimating the structure constant of the refractive index from meteorological variables in the surface layer. However, the MOST becomes unreliable for stable atmospheric conditions, which occurred for more periods regardless of the time of day at the Baikal Astrophysical Observatory. We propose the application of a neural network based on the group method of data handling (GMDH), one of the earliest deep-learning techniques, to predict the surface-layer refractive-index structure constant. The magnitudes of the predicted values of the structure constant of the refractive index and measurements are in agreement. Correlation coefficients ranging from 0.79–0.91 for a stably stratified atmosphere have been obtained. The explicit analytical expression is an advantage of the proposed approach, in contrast to many other machine-learning techniques that have a black-box model.
Atomistic simulations of the free-energy landscapes of interstellar chemical reactions: the case of methyl isocyanate
Authors: Cassone Giuseppe , Saija Franz , Sponer Jiri , Sponer Judit E , Jiménez-Escobar Antonio , Ciaravella Angela , Cecchi-Pestellini Cesare
Published: April 2021

Although complex organic molecules are observed in a wide variety of environments, chemical reaction networks heading to their formation are higly debated. It is a major endeavour to model the rates of reactions and incorporate them into chemical networks. The vast majority of the computational investigations in astrochemistry take into consideration oversimplified molecular models where chemical reactions are simulated under vacuum conditions (gas phase) and with crudely approximated entropic contributions to the free energy. We use density functional theory-based molecular dynamics techniques coupled with state-of-the-art metadynamics methods to investigate the role of ices embedding the reactants in shaping the free-energy landscape of selected reactions. Ices are chemically defined at the same level of theory of the reactants themselves. We consider as test case the transformation of methane and isocyanic acid into molecular hydrogen and methyl isocyanate, a species bearing similarities with peptide bonds. We examine the thermodynamically unfavoured case of very stable reactants to magnify modifications in the energy configuration induced by a solid amorphous water ice, either pure or mixed with CO. The presence of an active medium modifies significantly the free-energy surface, widening the path connecting reactants and products, and decreasing substantially the energy barriers. Ices not only act as gatherers of reactants, but also create thermodynamic conditions favouring chemical evolution.
Dynamical structures of retrograde resonances: analytical and numerical studies
Authors: Lei Hanlun , Li Jian
Published: April 2021

In this work, retrograde mean motion resonances (MMRs) are investigated by means of analytical and numerical approaches. Initially, we define a new resonant angle to describe the retrograde MMRs and then perform a series of canonical transformations to formulate the resonant model, in which the phase portrait, resonant centre, and resonant width can be analytically determined. To validate the analytical developments, the non-perturbative analysis is made by taking advantage of Poincaré surfaces of section. Some modifications are introduced in the production of Poincaré sections and, in particular, it becomes possible to make direct comparisons between the analytical and numerical results. It is found that there exists an excellent correspondence between the phase portraits and the associated Poincaré sections, and the analytical results agree well with the numerical results in terms of the resonant width and the location of resonant centre. Finally, the numerical approach is utilized to determine the resonant widths and resonant centres over the full range of eccentricity. In particular, seven known examples of retrograde asteroids including 2015 BZ509, 2008 SO218, 1999 LE31, 2000 DG8, 2014 AT28, 2016 LS, and 2016 JK24 are found inside the libration zones of retrograde MMRs with Jupiter. The results obtained in this work may be helpful for understanding the dynamical evolution for asteroids inside retrograde MMRs.
Unravelling the origin of magnetic fields in galaxies
Authors: Martin-Alvarez Sergio , Katz Harley , Sijacki Debora , Devriendt Julien , Slyz Adrianne
Published: April 2021

Despite their ubiquity, there are many open questions regarding galactic and cosmic magnetic fields. Specifically, current observational constraints cannot rule out whether magnetic fields observed in galaxies were generated in the early Universe or are of astrophysical nature. Motivated by this, we use our magnetic tracer algorithm to investigate whether the signatures of primordial magnetic fields persist in galaxies throughout cosmic time. We simulate a Milky Way-like galaxy down to z ∼ 2–1 in four scenarios: magnetized solely by primordial magnetic fields, magnetized exclusively by supernova (SN)-injected magnetic fields, and two combined primordial + SN magnetization cases. We find that once primordial magnetic fields with a comoving strength B0 > 10−12 G are considered, they remain the primary source of galaxy magnetization. Our magnetic tracers show that, even combined with galactic sources of magnetization, when primordial magnetic fields are strong, they source the large-scale fields in the warm metal-poor phase of the simulated galaxy. In this case, the circumgalactic medium and intergalactic medium can be used to probe B0 without risk of pollution by magnetic fields originated in the galaxy. Furthermore, whether magnetic fields are primordial or astrophysically sourced can be inferred by studying local gas metallicity. As a result, we predict that future state-of-the-art observational facilities of magnetic fields in galaxies will have the potential to unravel astrophysical and primordial magnetic components of our Universe.
The Be/neutron star system Swift J004929.5-733107 in the Small Magellanic Cloud–X-ray characteristics and optical counterpart candidates
Authors: Coe M J , Kennea J A , Evans P A , Townsend L J , Udalski A , Monageng I M , Buckley D A H
Published: April 2021

Swift J004929.5-733107 is an X-ray source in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) that has been reported several times, but the optical counterpart has been unclear due to source confusion in a crowded region of the SMC. Previous works proposed [MA93] 302 as the counterpart, however we show here, using data obtained from the S-CUBED project, that the X-ray position is inconsistent with that object. Instead we propose a previously unclassified object which has all the indications of being a newly identified Be star exhibiting strong H α emission. Evidence for the presence of significant I-band variability strongly suggest that this is, in fact, a Be type star with a large circumstellar disc. Over 18 yr worth of optical monitoring by the OGLE project reveal a periodic modulation at a period of 413 d, probably the binary period of the system. A SALT optical spectrum shows strong Balmer emission and supports a proposed spectral classification of B1-3 III-IVe. The X-ray data obtained from the S-CUBED project reveal a time-averaged spectrum well fitted by a photon index Γ = 0.93 ± 0.16. Assuming the known distance to the SMC, the flux corresponds to a luminosity ∼1035 erg s−1. All of these observational facts suggest that this is confirmed as a Be star–neutron star X-ray binary (BeXRB) in the SMC, albeit one with an unusually long binary period at the limits of the Corbet Diagram.
Noise reduction for weak lensing mass mapping: an application of generative adversarial networks to Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam first-year data
Authors: Shirasaki Masato , Moriwaki Kana , Oogi Taira , Yoshida Naoki , Ikeda Shiro , Nishimichi Takahiro
Published: April 2021

We propose a deep-learning approach based on generative adversarial networks (GANs) to reduce noise in weak lensing mass maps under realistic conditions. We apply image-to-image translation using conditional GANs to the mass map obtained from the first-year data of Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam (HSC) Survey. We train the conditional GANs by using 25 000 mock HSC catalogues that directly incorporate a variety of observational effects. We study the non-Gaussian information in denoised maps using one-point probability distribution functions (PDFs) and also perform matching analysis for positive peaks and massive clusters. An ensemble learning technique with our GANs is successfully applied to reproduce the PDFs of the lensing convergence. About $60{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the peaks in the denoised maps with height greater than 5σ have counterparts of massive clusters within a separation of 6 arcmin. We show that PDFs in the denoised maps are not compromised by details of multiplicative biases and photometric redshift distributions, nor by shape measurement errors, and that the PDFs show stronger cosmological dependence compared to the noisy counterpart. We apply our denoising method to a part of the first-year HSC data to show that the observed mass distribution is statistically consistent with the prediction from the standard ΛCDM model.
How to Abū Hāšim Meinong
Authors: Zolghadr Behnam
Published: April 2021

Similar to Meinong, Abū Hāšim al-Ğubbāī (d. 933) held the view that some objects do not exist. This paper is a comparative study between Meinong’s object theory and Abū Hāšim’s theory of nonexistent objects. Our comparative study is mostly done through three topics: the characterization principle, objecthood, and the ontological status of existence. Moreover, Abū Hāšim’s theory of nonexistent objects is based on his theory of states, according to which some things, namely states, which among other things include existence, are neither existent nor nonexistent. In this paper, we have also discussed two arguments on behalf of this claim and then we have examined them from a Meinongian perspective.
Inhibition of DNA replication initiation by silver nanoclusters
Authors: Tao Yu , Aparicio Tomas , Li Mingqiang , Leong Kam W , Zha Shan , Gautier Jean
Published: April 2021

Silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) have outstanding physicochemical characteristics, including the ability to interact with proteins and DNA. Given the growing number of diagnostic and therapeutic applications of AgNCs, we evaluated the impact of AgNCs on DNA replication and DNA damage response in cell-free extracts prepared from unfertilized Xenopus laevis eggs. We find that, among a number of silver nanomaterials, AgNCs uniquely inhibited genomic DNA replication and abrogated the DNA replication checkpoint in cell-free extracts. AgNCs did not affect nuclear membrane or nucleosome assembly. AgNCs-supplemented extracts showed a strong defect in the loading of the mini chromosome maintenance (MCM) protein complex, the helicase that unwinds DNA ahead of replication forks. FLAG-AgNCs immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry analysis of AgNCs associated proteins demonstrated direct interaction between MCM and AgNCs. Our studies indicate that AgNCs directly prevent the loading of MCM, blocking pre-replication complex (pre-RC) assembly and subsequent DNA replication initiation. Collectively, our findings broaden the scope of silver nanomaterials experimental applications, establishing AgNCs as a novel tool to study chromosomal DNA replication.
The incidence of major subtypes of primary brain tumors in adults in England 1995-2017
Authors: Wanis Hiba A , Møller Henrik , Ashkan Keyoumars , Davies Elizabeth A
Published: April 2021

Background

Primary brain tumors are a complex heterogenous group of benign and malignant tumors. Reports on their occurrence in the English population by sex, age, and morphological subtype and on their incidence are currently not available. Using data from the National Cancer Registration and Analysis Service (NCRAS), the incidence of adult primary brain tumor by major subtypes in England will be described.

Methods

Data on all adult English patients diagnosed with primary brain tumor between 1995 and 2017, excluding spinal, endocrinal, and other CNS tumors, were extracted from NCRAS. Incidence rates were standardized to the 2013 European Standard Population. Results are presented by sex, age, and morphological subtype.

Results

Between 1995 and 2017, a total of 133 669 cases of adult primary brain tumor were registered in England. Glioblastoma was the most frequent tumor subtype (31.8%), followed by meningioma (27.3%). The age-standardized incidence for glioblastoma increased from 3.27 per 100 000 population per year in 1995 to 7.34 in men in 2013 and from 2.00 to 4.45 in women. Meningioma incidence also increased from 1.89 to 3.41 per 100 000 in men and from 3.40 to 7.46 in women. The incidence of other astrocytic and unclassified brain tumors declined between 1995 and 2007 and remained stable thereafter.

Conclusion

Part of the increase in the incidence of major subtypes of brain tumors in England could be explained by advances in clinical practice including the adoption of new diagnostic tools, classifications and molecular testing, and improved cancer registration practices.
Endoscopic Endonasal Excision of an Optic Pathway Cavernous Malformation: Technical Case Report
Authors: Patel Biren Khimji , Gohil A Jaypalsinh , Nair Prakash , H.V. Easwer , A.N. Deepti
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Cavernous malformations (CMs) are angiographically occult low-flow vascular malformations that infrequently involve the optic pathway and the hypothalamus (OPH).

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A 23-yr-old male presented with bitemporal hemianopia due to chaismal apoplexy. Imaging revealed a CM involving the OPH. The CM was resected by an extended endonasal approach. The patient had improvement in his visual field defects, and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a gross total resection of the CM.

CONCLUSION

This case demonstrates the surgical technique of endoscopic endonasal resection of a CM involving the optic pathway.
Can Patient Expectations Modulate the Short-Term Effects of Dry Needling on Sensitivity Outcomes in Patients with Mechanical Neck Pain? A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Gallego-Sendarrubias Gracia M , Voogt Lennard , Arias-Buría José Luis , Bialosky Joel , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César
Published: April 2021

Objective

Dry needling is commonly used for the management of patients with musculoskeletal pain. However, the effects of patient expectations are uncertain. Our aim was to determine the effect of patient expectations on short-term clinical outcomes after the application of a single session of dry needling in individuals with neck pain.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial including 50 patients with mechanical neck pain. Participants received a single session of dry needling or sham needling in a blinded design. Predicted patient expectation was categorized as positive, neutral, or negative. Outcomes including neck pain intensity (visual analog scale, 0–100), pressure pain thresholds, and self-perceived improvement (Global Rating of Change, −7 to +7) were assessed at baseline, 1 day after the intervention (immediately after), and 7 days after the intervention (1 week after) by a blinded assessor. Repeated-measures analyses of covariance were conducted to assess the effects of real/sham needling adjusted by patient expectations.

Results

Individuals receiving dry needling exhibited better outcomes immediately and 1 week after the intervention than did those receiving sham needling (all P < 0.01). No general effects of patient expectations, either related to pain recovery or functional improvement, were observed on the clinical outcomes, except for a small association of questionable clinical relevance between positive expectations and localized pressure pain thresholds in the dry needling group.

Conclusion

This study did not find a significant effect of predicted patient expectations on the short-term effects of dry needling on pain intensity and pressure pain thresholds in people with mechanical neck pain.
Unions and Inequality over the Twentieth Century: New Evidence from Survey Data
Authors: Farber Henry S , Herbst Daniel , Kuziemko Ilyana , Naidu Suresh
Published: April 2021

U.S. income inequality has varied inversely with union density over the past 100 years. But moving beyond this aggregate relationship has proven difficult, in part because of limited microdata on union membership prior to 1973. We develop a new source of microdata on union membership dating back to 1936, survey data primarily from Gallup (N ≈ 980,000), to examine the long-run relationship between unions and inequality. We document dramatic changes in the demographics of union members: when density was at its mid-century peak, union households were much less educated and more nonwhite than other households, whereas pre-World War II and today they are more similar to nonunion households on these dimensions. However, despite large changes in composition and density since 1936, the household union premium holds relatively steady between 10 and 20 log points. We use our data to examine the effect of unions on income inequality. Using distributional decompositions, time series regressions, state-year regressions, as well as a new instrumental-variable strategy based on the 1935 legalization of unions and the World War II–era War Labor Board, we find consistent evidence that unions reduce inequality, explaining a significant share of the dramatic fall in inequality between the mid-1930s and late 1940s.
Being overweight is associated with not reaching low disease activity in women but not men with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Mulder Michelle L M , Wenink Mark H , Vriezekolk Johanna E
Published: April 2021

Objective

To assess sex differences in disease activity parameters and health-related quality of life in PsA, and to assess whether determinants associated with not reaching treatment target differed between men and women.

Methods

Routine practice data of 855 PsA patients, who were all tightly monitored and treated, was used. Sex differences including, but not limited to, PsA Disease Activity Score (PASDAS), skin/nail disease, SF-12 PCS/MCS, and inflammatory back pain (IBP) were assessed. Multivariate analyses were used to examine determinants associated with not reaching treatment target (PASDAS ≤ 3.2) in men and women.

Results

Women had worse scores for—among others—swollen and tender joints, CRP, enthesitis and function (all P < 0.001). Higher PASDAS scores were found for women [3.5  (1.5)] than men [2.7  (1.5), P < 0.001]. Likewise, women were more often not at PASDAS treatment target (OR = 2.03, P < 0.001). No difference in current medication use was found. Nail disease, IBP, number of DMARDs used (past and current), and BMI were associated with not reaching treatment target in the overall sample. For women, but not men, BMI was associated with not reaching PASDAS low disease activity (LDA) (OR between 2.41 and 3.43, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Women with PsA in a tightly monitored and treated setting have more severe disease than men. This is demonstrated by worse scores for women in both subjective and objective disease activity measures, in addition to women less often reaching the treatment target. Notably, being overweight is associated with higher disease activity in women, but not men.
WARNER MUSIC UK LTD v TUNEIN INC (No. 2)
Authors:   Chancery Division
Published: April 2021

H1 Copyright – Infringement – Sound recordings – Internet radio services – Use of hyperlinks – Communication to the public – Scope and effect of finding on liability – Relief – Whether injunctive relief in general terms appropriate – Whether injunctive relief and any damages inquiry should be limited to specific instances of liability established at trial – Proportionality – Stay of injunction pending appeal – Costs – Relevance of commercial importance of particular issues
ANALYSES OF H*(10) DOSE RATES MEASURED IN ENVIRONMENT CONTAMINATED BY RADIOACTIVE CAESIUM: CORRECTION OF DIRECTIONAL DEPENDENCE OF SCINTILLATION DETECTORS
Authors: Tsuda S , Tanigaki M , Yoshida T , Okumura R , Saito K
Published: April 2021

Ambient dose equivalent rates were measured in the environment of the Fukushima prefecture using NaI(Tl)/CsI(Tl) scintillation detectors and CdZnTe/Ge semiconductor detectors. The dose rates obtained at the same locations varied beyond uncertainty (1σ). By replacing the spectrum-dose conversion operators obtained from the anterior–posterior geometry with those from the rotational geometry, the dose rates agreed with each other within uncertainties, except for a CsI(Tl) scintillation detector with a considerably flat crystal configuration, due to its excessive directional dependence.
Need for Ethnic and Population Diversity in Psychosis Research
Authors: Burkhard Carla , Cicek Saba , Barzilay Ran , Radhakrishnan Rajiv , Guloksuz Sinan
Published: April 2021

This article aims to evaluate “racial”, ethnic, and population diversity—or lack thereof—in psychosis research, with a particular focus on socio-environmental studies. Samples of psychosis research remain heavily biased toward Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) societies. Furthermore, we often fail to acknowledge the lack of diversity, thereby implying that our findings can be generalized to all populations regardless of their social, ethnic, and cultural background. This has major consequences. Clinical trials generate findings that are not generalizable across ethnicity. The genomic-based prediction models are far from being applicable to the “Majority World.” Socio-environmental theories of psychosis are solely based on findings of the empirical studies conducted in WEIRD populations. If and how these socio-environmental factors affect individuals in entirely different geographic locations, gene pools, social structures and norms, cultures, and potentially protective counter-factors remain unclear. How socio-environmental factors are assessed and studied is another major shortcoming. By embracing the complexity of environment, the exposome paradigm may facilitate the evaluation of interdependent exposures, which could explain how variations in socio-environmental factors across different social and geographical settings could contribute to divergent paths to psychosis. Testing these divergent paths to psychosis will however require increasing the diversity of study populations that could be achieved by establishing true partnerships between WEIRD societies and the Majority World with the support of funding agencies aspired to foster replicable research across diverse populations. The time has come to make diversity in psychosis research more than a buzzword.
Evidence for Reduced Long-Term Potentiation-Like Visual Cortical Plasticity in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Valstad Mathias , Roelfs Daniël , Slapø Nora B , Timpe Clara M F , Rai Ahsan , Matziorinis Anna Maria , Beck Dani , Richard Geneviève , Sæther Linn Sofie , Haatveit Beathe , Nordvik Jan Egil , Hatlestad-Hall Christoffer , Einevoll Gaute T , Mäki-Marttunen Tuomo , Haram Marit , Ueland Torill , Lagerberg Trine V , Steen Nils Eiel , Melle Ingrid , Westlye Lars T , Jönsson Erik G , Andreassen Ole A , Moberget Torgeir , Elvsåshagen Torbjørn
Published: April 2021

Several lines of research suggest that impairments in long-term potentiation (LTP)-like synaptic plasticity might be a key pathophysiological mechanism in schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder type I (BDI) and II (BDII). Using modulations of visually evoked potentials (VEP) of the electroencephalogram, impaired LTP-like visual cortical plasticity has been implicated in patients with BDII, while there has been conflicting evidence in SZ, a lack of research in BDI, and mixed results regarding associations with symptom severity, mood states, and medication. We measured the VEP of patients with SZ spectrum disorders (n = 31), BDI (n = 34), BDII (n = 33), and other BD spectrum disorders (n = 2), and age-matched healthy control (HC) participants (n = 200) before and after prolonged visual stimulation. Compared to HCs, modulation of VEP component N1b, but not C1 or P1, was impaired both in patients within the SZ spectrum (χ 2 = 35.1, P = 3.1 × 10−9) and BD spectrum (χ 2 = 7.0, P = 8.2 × 10−3), including BDI (χ 2 = 6.4, P = .012), but not BDII (χ 2 = 2.2, P = .14). N1b modulation was also more severely impaired in SZ spectrum than BD spectrum patients (χ 2 = 14.2, P = 1.7 × 10−4). N1b modulation was not significantly associated with Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) negative or positive symptoms scores, number of psychotic episodes, Montgomery and Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) scores, or Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) scores after multiple comparison correction, although a nominal association was observed between N1b modulation and PANSS negative symptoms scores among SZ spectrum patients. These results suggest that LTP-like plasticity is impaired in SZ and BD. Adding to previous genetic, pharmacological, and electrophysiological evidence, these results implicate aberrant synaptic plasticity as a mechanism underlying SZ and BD.
Paradoxes of Pluralism, Privilege, and Persecution: Explaining Christian Growth and Decline Worldwide
Authors: Saiya Nilay , Manchanda Stuti
Published: April 2021

This article examines the effect of church–state relations on projected rates of Christian population growth or decline worldwide. It makes the paradoxical argument that contexts of both pluralism and persecution do not impede Christian growth rates. In these environments, Christians do not have the luxury of becoming complacent. On one hand, pluralism means that Christianity must actively compete with other faith traditions in order to gain and maintain adherents. On the other hand, persecution can, paradoxically, sometimes strengthen Christianity by deepening attachments to faith and reinforcing solidarity among Christians. Rather, it is a third type of relationship—privilege, or state support for Christianity—that corresponds to the greatest threat to projected growth in Christianity. Countries where Christianity is privileged by the state encourage apathy and the politicization of religion, resulting in a less dynamic faith and the projected decline of Christian populations. We test these propositions using a cross-national, time-series analysis of a global sample of countries from 2010 to 2020. Our findings provide support for our theory that Christianity suffers in contexts of privilege but not in environments of pluralism or persecution. The finding is robust to a number of model specifications and statistical approaches.
Effects of prolonging the interval from progestin removal to prostaglandin F2α injection from 16 to 17 d in a long-term estrus synchronization protocol in beef heifers
Authors: Oosthuizen Nicola , Melo Gabriela D , Seidel George E , Stewart R Lawton , Rowden Larry , Lamb Graham C , Fontes Pedro L P
Published: April 2021

To determine effects of delaying the injection of prostaglandin F2α (PGF) and fixed-time artificial insemination (TAI) in the 14-d CIDR-PG protocol, 1,049 Angus heifers at six locations were enrolled in a completely randomized design. Within location heifers were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: 1) PG16 (n = 518), heifers received a controlled internal drug release (CIDR) insert on d 0 for 14 d, a 25-mg injection of PGF 16 d after CIDR removal (d 30), and a 100-µg injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone concurrent with TAI 66 ± 2 h later; or 2) PG17 (n = 531), heifers were treated the same as PG16, however, PGF was administered 17 d after CIDR removal (d 31), and heifers were TAI 66 ± 2 h later. Estrus detection patches were applied to a subset (n = 482) of heifers at the time of PGF administration and were examined for activation at TAI. Dominant follicle diameter was determined via transrectal ultrasonography at PGF administration and TAI in a subset of heifers (n = 116). Transrectal ultrasonography was performed to determine pregnancy rates to TAI (PR/AI) between 30 and 45 d after TAI. Estrus expression prior to TAI differed by treatment where PG17 heifers had greater (P < 0.01) expression of estrus than PG16 heifers (57.8 ± 6.1% vs. 43.4 ± 6.1%, respectively). Nevertheless, dominant follicle diameters at PGF and at TAI were similar (P ≥ 0.59) between PG16 and PG17 heifers. In addition, PR/AI did not differ (P = 0.29) between PG16 and PG17 treatments (50.5 ± 3.2% vs. 45.7 ± 3.1%, respectively). Results of this experiment indicate that delaying the injection of PGF and TAI in the 14-d CIDR-PG protocol increased estrus expression prior to TAI yet did not improve fertility in beef heifers.
Veterinary Professions Advising Center: an innovative approach to preveterinary advising for Animal Science students
Authors: Trivedi Shweta , Clark Jessica C , See M Todd
Published: April 2021

Veterinary Professions Advising Center (VetPAC) is a unique undergraduate advising center that combines Career Center services with preprofessional advising for preveterinary students at North Carolina State University (NCSU). During the past 10 years, VetPAC has created five distinct internships, three annual study abroad courses, and a competitive annual high school summer camp, provided holistic advising, and hosted large-scale advising events that consistently provide resources to more than 800 students annually. The VetPAC provided outreach to an average of 13 local high schools per academic year and educated over 300 visiting students about VetPAC and preveterinary life at NCSU since 2015. NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine has had a minimum of 26% and a maximum of 45% DVM students in the incoming classes who accessed VetPAC resources and advising. This article presents the impact VetPAC has had on preveterinary student success at NCSU and provides an outline of VetPAC’s first 10 years of development as a model of combined career services and preprofessional advising for peer institutions.
Pushing to the Limits: What Processes during Cognitive Control are Enhanced by Reaction–Time Feedback?
Authors: Prochnow Astrid , Mückschel Moritz , Beste Christian
Published: April 2021

To respond as quickly as possible in a given task is a widely used instruction in cognitive neuroscience; however, the neural processes modulated by this common experimental procedure remain largely elusive. We investigated the underlying neurophysiological processes combining electroencephalography (EEG) signal decomposition (residue iteration decomposition, RIDE) and source localization. We show that trial-based response speed instructions enhance behavioral performance in conflicting trials, but slightly impair performance in nonconflicting trials. The modulation seen in conflicting trials was found at several coding levels in EEG data using RIDE. In the S-cluster N2 time window, this modulation was associated with modulated activation in the posterior cingulate cortex and the superior frontal gyrus. Furthermore, in the C-cluster P3 time window, this modulation was associated with modulated activation in the middle frontal gyrus. Interestingly, in the R-cluster P3 time window, this modulation was strongest according to statistical effect sizes, associated with modulated activity in the primary motor cortex. Reaction–time feedback mainly modulates response motor execution processes, whereas attentional and response selection processes are less affected. The study underlines the importance of being aware of how experimental instructions influence the behavior and neurophysiological processes.
Fluoroscopic Evaluation of the Bile Ducts: Anatomic Variants, Benign and Malignant Pathologies and Bile Leaks: Part II
Authors: Sridhar Shravan , Keshav Nandan , Shiehmorteza Masoud , Thompson William M.
Published: April 2021

In the first installment in this series (volume 44, number 9), the normal anatomy and anatomic variants of the bile ducts were discussed. The techniques of direct cholangiography (DC) and how to interpret DC were reviewed. Finally, the nonstrictured bile duct abnormalities were covered. In this article, the strictured bile duct abnormalities and bile leaks will be thoroughly discussed to conclude the series.
Graduate Student Outcomes Following Critical Care Simulation: An Italian Pilot Study
Authors: Dante Angelo , Bruni Emanuela , La Cerra Carmen , Caponnetto Valeria , Masotta Vittorio , Petrucci Cristina , Alfes Celeste M. , Lancia Loreto
Published: April 2021

High-fidelity simulation provides nursing students with the opportunity to learn and achieve competence in a safe context. The aim of the study was to assess learning outcomes following multiple exposures to high-fidelity simulation sessions. The sample consisted of 18 graduate students enrolled in a critical care nursing course. A four-hour high-fidelity simulation experience was conducted, with a four-hour retraining one month after. Group performance, self-efficacy, self-confidence, and satisfaction improved after multiple exposures to high-fidelity simulation. High-fidelity simulation is a valid adjunct to nursing education in the short term and may improve learning when offered at multiple time points.
Complications and Revision Rates in Minimally Invasive Robotic-Guided Versus Fluoroscopic-Guided Spinal Fusions
Authors: Good Christopher R. , Orosz Lindsay , Schroerlucke Samuel R. , Cannestra Andrew , Lim Jae Y. , Hsu Victor W. , Zahrawi Faissal , Villalobos Hunaldo J. , Ramirez Pedro M. , Sweeney Thomas , Wang Michael Y.
Published: April 2021

Study Design.

Prospective, multicenter, partially randomized.

Objective.

Assess rates of complications, revision surgery, and radiation between Mazor robotic-guidance (RG) and fluoro-guidance (FG).

Summary of Background Data.

Minimally invasive surgery MIS ReFRESH is the first study designed to compare RG and FG techniques in adult minimally invasive surgery (MIS) lumbar fusions.

Methods.

Primary endpoints were analyzed at 1 year follow-up. Analysis of variables through Cox logistic regression and a Kaplan–Meier Survival Curve of surgical complications.

Results.

Nine sites enrolled 485 patients: 374 (RG arm) and 111 (FG arm). 93.2% of patients had more than 1 year f/u. There were no differences for sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, diabetes, or tumor. Mean age of RG patients was 59.0 versus 62.5 for FG (P = 0.009) and body mass index (BMI) was 31.2 versus 28.1 (P< 0.001). Percentage of smokers was almost double in the RG (15.2% vs. 7.2%, P = 0.029). Surgical time was similar (skin-to-skin time/no. of screws) at 24.9 minutes RG and 22.9 FG (P = 0.550). Fluoroscopy during surgery/no. of screws was 15.5 seconds RG versus 35.4 seconds FG, (15 seconds average reduction). Fluoroscopy time during instrumentation/no. of screws was 3.6 seconds RG versus 17.8 seconds FG showing an 80% average reduction of fluoro time/screw in RG (P < 0.001). Within 1 year follow-up, there were 39 (10.4%) surgical complications RG versus 39 (35.1%) FG, and 8 (2.1%) revisions RG versus 7 (6.3%) FG. Cox regression analysis including age, sex, BMI, CCI, and no. of screws, demonstrated that the hazard ratio (HR) for complication was 5.8 times higher FG versus RG (95% CI: 3.5–9.6, P < 0.001). HR for revision surgery was 11.0 times higher FG versus RG cases (95% CI 2.9–41.2, P < 0.001).

Conclusion.

Mazor robotic-guidance was found to have a 5.8 times lower risk of a surgical complication and 11.0 times lower risk for revision surgery. Surgical time was similar between groups and robotic-guidance reduced fluoro time per screw by 80% (approximately 1 min/case).

Level of Evidence: 2
Exploring Patients’ Perceptions on ICU Diaries: A Systematic Review and Qualitative Data Synthesis
Authors: Brandao Barreto Bruna , Luz Mariana , Alves Valente do Amaral Lopes Selma , Goulart Rosa Regis , Gusmao-Flores Dimitri
Published: April 2021

OBJECTIVES:

This study aims to summarize the current qualitative evidence on patients’ experiences of reading the ICU diaries.

DATA SOURCES:

We searched the online databases PubMed, Ovid, EMBASE, and EBSCO host from inception to July 2020.

STUDY SELECTION:

All studies that presented any qualitative findings regarding patients’ experiences of reading an ICU diary were included.

DATA EXTRACTION:

Study design, location, publication year, data collection method, and mode, all qualitative themes identified and reported, and participant quotations, when appropriate. We also extracted data regarding the diary structure, when available. A thematic synthesis approach was used to analyze and synthesize qualitative data.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Seventeen studies were analyzed. Most patients reported positive experiences with the ICU diary, such as understanding what they survived during critical illness, better understanding the process of recovery, gaining coherence of nightmares and delusional memories, realizing the importance of the presence of family and loved ones during ICU stay, and humanizing healthcare professionals that helped them survive critical illness. Patients also reported which components of the diary were important for their recovery, such as the presence of photographs and reading the diary with a healthcare professional, allowing the improvement of the concept of the ICU diary.

Conclusion:

This qualitative synthesis shows that patients recommend having an ICU diary, enlightening benefits such as better coping with the slow recovery from critical illness, strengthening family ties, and humanizing the ICU staff. It also identifies characteristics of the diary valued by the patients, in order to standardize the ICU diary according to their perspectives, and allowing future comparability between randomized controlled trials.
Impact of Use of Antibiotics on Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Khan Uqba , Ho Kaylee , Hwang Eun Kyeong , Peña Cristian , Brouwer Julianna , Hoffman Katherine , Betel Doron , Sonnenberg Gregory F. , Faltas Bishoy , Saxena Ashish , Weisiger Kaitlin Eng , Oh Sarah , Hissong Erika , RoyChoudhury Arindam , Shah Manish A.
Published: April 2021

Background:

Antibiotic use can result in reduced efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), presumably because of dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiome. We sought to determine the precise temporal relation between antibiotic therapy and its possible effects on ICB efficacy. We also investigated the histologic changes in the tumor microenvironment secondary to antibiotics use.

Methods and Objectives:

This was a single institution retrospective study that evaluated the impact of antibiotics on outcomes of patients with advanced or metastatic malignancy who were treated with ICB. Use of antibiotics among patients treated with ICB was assessed during a 12-week period before and after initiation of ICB. The primary outcome was response to ICB. Histologic changes in the tumor microenvironment following antibiotics use were also examined.

Results:

Between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2018, 414 patients were identified who received ICB, and 207 patients (50%) received antibiotics within 12 weeks (before/after) of initiation of ICB. In univariate analysis, antibiotic use following initiation of ICB was associated with a significantly reduced response (odds ratio [OR]: 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2-0.52, P<0.001). There was no significant negative impact on response to immunotherapy when antibiotics were used before ICB initiation (OR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.55-1.34, P=0.52). The maximal negative impact of antibiotics occurred in the first 6 weeks after initiating ICB, and was independently associated with significantly reduced likelihood of response to immunotherapy in multivariable analysis (OR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.29-0.8, P=0.01).

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates that the use of antibiotics during ICB significantly negatively impacts the efficacy of immunotherapy. The maximal negative impact occurs if the antibiotics are used in the first 6 weeks after initiating ICB.
The impact of hypotestosteronemia on cardiometabolic effects of atorvastatin in men with hypercholesterolemia: a pilot study
Authors: Krysiak Robert , Kowalcze Karolina , Okopień Bogusław
Published: April 2021

Background

Hypothyroidism, hyperprolactinemia, macroprolactinemia and low vitamin D status were found to impair pleiotropic effects of hypolipidemic agents. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether cardiometabolic effects of atorvastatin in men are determined by endogenous testosterone.

Methods

We studied three groups of men matched for age, BMI, plasma lipids and blood pressure: 19 untreated subjects with low testosterone levels (group A), 19 normotestosteronemic men receiving testosterone preparations (group B) and 21 untreated men with testosterone levels within the reference range (group C). Because of coexistent hypercholesterolemia, all subjects were managed with atorvastatin (40 mg daily) for 6 months. Glucose homeostasis markers, plasma lipids, as well as circulating levels of testosterone, uric acid, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), fibrinogen, homocysteine and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were determined at the beginning and at the end of the study.

Results

At baseline, group A was more insulin-resistant and was characterized by higher levels of hsCRP, fibrinogen and homocysteine, and lower levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D than the remaining groups of patients. Despite reducing total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hsCRP levels in all treatment groups, this effect was stronger in groups B and C than in group A. In groups B and C, atorvastatin use was also associated with a decrease in uric acid, fibrinogen and homocysteine concentrations and with an increase in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. In group A, but not in the remaining groups, the drug decreased insulin sensitivity.

Conclusion

The obtained results suggest that untreated hypotestosteronemia may attenuate cardiometabolic effects of atorvastatin in men.
Impact of sex on outcomes of bifurcation lesion percutaneous coronary intervention: results from a single-centre prospective registry
Authors: Schamroth Pravda Nili , Perl Leor , Greenberg Gabriel , Codner Pablo , Assali Abid , Samara Abed , Porter Avital , Kornowski Ran , Vaknin-Assa Hana
Published: April 2021

Background

Coronary bifurcation lesions are technically and clinically more challenging compared to nonbifurcation lesions. Sex-related differences in diagnostic and invasive therapeutic coronary procedures have been described in the literature. Our objective was to assess the impact of sex on outcomes of bifurcation lesion percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

Our data were taken from a prospective registry of consecutive patients undergoing PCI for bifurcation lesions at our medical centre between 2004 and 2019. We compared rates of death and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) between men and women at 1 year and 3 years. MACE comprised cardiac death, myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization or stroke.

Results

A total of 1209 patients were included, 948 (78.4%) were male and 261 (21.6%) were female. Women were older (mean age 69.7 ± 11 years vs. 63.1 ± 11 years, P < 0.01), and had more comorbidities than men. Female patients had more angiographically calcified (38.1% vs. 30.1%, P = 0.017) lesions. At 1-year follow up, there was no significant difference of MACE (18.8 vs. 15.2%, P = 0.183) or all-cause mortality (5.7% vs. 3.9%, P = 0.242) between sexes. At 3-year follow up, there was a significantly higher rate of MACE in women (29.1% vs. 22.5%, P = 0.026), this was driven by a significantly higher all-cause mortality (13.8% vs. 6.5%, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Women undergoing bifurcation PCI are older and have more comorbidities than their male counterparts. Intermediate term follow-up outcomes are similar between sexes. Poorer long-term outcomes of women are likely due to baseline higher risk profile.