bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anisotropic elastic parameter estimation from multicomponent ground-motion observations: a theoretical study
Authors: Noe S , Yuan S , Montagner J-P , Igel H
Published: January 2022

We investigate the potential of multicomponent, single-point ground-motion observations (displacement, rotation and strain) to allow the estimation of near-receiver anisotropic elastic parameters. Based on full-space, plane-wave propagation analysis, we demonstrate that in (locally homogeneous) anisotropic media, the wave propagation direction and the velocities of quasi-P and quasi-S waves can—in principle—be determined from three components of displacements and three components of rotations. Mimicking the situation of a borehole setting, we formulate an inverse problem, estimating the full elastic tensor from multidirectional observations. We show that in the presence of noise it is beneficial to observe additionally a longitudinal strain component (e.g. along the borehole), further constraining the predominantly quasi-P related elastic tensor components.
Positive Fuss–Catalan Numbers and Simple-Minded Systems in Negative Calabi–Yau Categories
Authors: Iyama Osamu , Jin Haibo
Published: January 2022

We establish a bijection between $d$-simple-minded systems ($d$-SMSs) of $(-d)$-Calabi–Yau cluster category $\mathcal C_{-d}(H)$ and silting objects of ${\mathcal {D}}^{\mathrm {b}}(H)$ contained in ${\mathcal {D}}^{\le 0}\cap {\mathcal {D}}^{\ge 1-d}$ for hereditary algebra $H$ of Dynkin type and $d\ge 1$. We show that the number of $d$-SMSs in $\mathcal C_{-d}(H)$ is the positive Fuss–Catalan number $C_{d}^{+}(W)$ of the corresponding Weyl group $W$, by applying this bijection and Buan–Reiten–Thomas’ and Zhu’s results on Fomin–Reading’s generalized cluster complexes. Our results are based on a refined version of silting-$t$-structure correspondence.
Marcel Breuer, the Wassily Chair and the ‘Frozen’ Bauhaus Modernism After 1945
Authors: Cacciola Donatella
Published: January 2022

Marcel Breuer was the first Bauhaus designer—and one of only a few—who was actively involved in reissuing his furniture designs. When Dino Gavina began working with Breuer to reissue his first tubular steel chair in November 1962, calling it ‘Wassily’, it was almost forty years old. In fact, the Wassily chair was not the first attempt to reissue the first tubular steel armchair of 1926. In 1960, Wohnbedarf in Zürich produced a limited edition, but sold only three pieces. Two years later, the first Wassily chair appeared at Gavina’s showroom in Milan, thus securing it a ‘career’ as a timeless piece of design furniture. This contrasted with Breuer’s earlier, unsuccessful attempts to launch and produce his designs during the 1940s and 1950s. This article investigates these first attempts, as well as the making of reissues and the reasons for their success. It also investigates several contradictions in the ‘Wassily’ reissue, beginning with the paradox that, in order to be recognized and succeed commercially, Bauhaus objects had to resemble those of the past and their designers were not asked to create up-to-date pieces of furniture.
Military Medical Students’ Perspectives on Medical Education in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Crispell Rachel , Woodard Catherine , Mullin Kaitlyn , Moreh Yonatan , Meyer Eric G
Published: January 2022

In response to the COVID pandemic, Uniformed Services University (USU) suspended clerkships. As the nation’s military medical school, USU had to keep students safe while still preparing them to be military physicians. In this commentary, we, a group of USU students, explore what this experience taught us about military medicine.
The Subaru HSC weak lensing mass-observable scaling relations of spectroscopic galaxy groups from the GAMA survey
Authors: Rana Divya , More Surhud , Miyatake Hironao , Nishimichi Takahiro , Takada Masahiro , Robotham Aaron S G , Hopkins Andrew M , Holwerda Benne W
Published: January 2022

We utilize the galaxy shape catalogue from the first-year data release of the Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam (HSC) survey to study the dark matter content of galaxy groups in the Universe using weak lensing. We use galaxy groups from the Galaxy Mass and Assembly galaxy survey in approximately 100 sq. degrees of the sky that overlap with the HSC survey as lenses. We restrict our analysis to the 1587 groups with at least five members. We divide these groups into six bins each of group luminosity and group member velocity dispersion and measure the lensing signal with a signal-to-noise ratio of 55 and 51 for these two different selections, respectively. We use a Bayesian halo model framework to infer the halo mass distribution of our groups binned in the two different observable properties and constrain the power-law scaling relation and the scatter between mean halo masses and the two-group observable properties. We obtain a 5 per cent constraint on the amplitude of the scaling relation between halo mass and group luminosity with 〈M〉 = (0.81 ± 0.04) × 1014 h−1 M⊙ for Lgrp = 1011.5 h−2 L⊙, and a power-law index of α = 1.01 ± 0.07. We constrain the amplitude of the scaling relation between halo mass and velocity dispersion to be 〈M〉 = (0.93 ± 0.05) × 1014 h−1 M⊙ for $\sigma = 500\, {\rm km\, s}^{-1}$ and a power-law index to be α = 1.52 ± 0.10. However, these scaling relations are sensitive to the exact cuts applied to the number of group members. Comparisons with similar scaling relations from the literature show that our results are consistent and have significantly reduced errors.
Gravitational radiation back-reaction from f-modes on neutron stars
Authors: Yim G , Jones D I
Published: January 2022

The problem of the gravitational radiation damping of neutron star fundamental (f) mode oscillations has received considerable attention. Many studies have looked at the stability of such oscillations in rapidly rotating stars, calculating the growth or decay rate of the mode amplitude. In this paper, we look at the relatively neglected problem of the radiation reaction on the spin of the star. We specialize greatly to the so-called Kelvin modes: the modes of oscillation of (initially) non-rotating incompressible stars. We find the unexpected result that the excitation of a mode of angular momentum δJ on an initially non-rotating star ends up radiating an angular momentum 2δJ to infinity, leaving the star itself with a bulk angular momentum of −δJ. This result is interesting in itself, and also will have implications for the angular momentum budgets of spinning down neutron stars, should such modes be excited.
Probing into emission mechanisms of GRB 190530A using time-resolved spectra and polarization studies: Synchrotron Origin?
Authors: Gupta Rahul , Gupta S , Chattopadhyay T , Lipunov V , Castro-Tirado A J , Bhattacharya D , Pandey S B , Oates S R , Kumar Amit , Hu Y-D , Valeev A F , Minaev P Yu , Kumar H , Vinko J , Dimple Dimple , Sharma V , Aryan A , Castellón A , Gabovich A , Moskvitin A , Ordasi A , Pál A , Pozanenko A , Zhang B-B , Kumar B , Svinkin D , Saraogi D , Vlasenko D , Fernández-García E , Gorbovskoy E , Anupama G C , Misra K , Sárneczky K , Kriskovics L , Castro-Tirado M Á , Caballero-García M D , Tiurina N , Balanutsa P , Lopez R R , Sánchez-Ramírez R , Szakáts R , Belkin S , Guziy S , Iyyani S , Tiwari S N , Vadawale Santosh V , Sun T , Bhalerao V , Kornilov V , Sokolov V V
Published: January 2022

Multi-pulsed GRB 190530A, detected by the GBM and LAT onboard Fermi, is the sixth most fluent GBM burst detected so far. This paper presents the timing, spectral, and polarimetric analysis of the prompt emission observed using AstroSat and Fermi to provide insight into the prompt emission radiation mechanisms. The time-integrated spectrum shows conclusive proof of two breaks due to peak energy and a second lower energy break. Time-integrated (55.43 ± 21.30 %) as well as time-resolved polarization measurements, made by the Cadmium Zinc Telluride Imager (CZTI) onboard AstroSat, show a hint of high degree of polarization. The presence of a hint of high degree of polarization and the values of low energy spectral index (αpt) do not run over the synchrotron limit for the first two pulses, supporting the synchrotron origin in an ordered magnetic field. However, during the third pulse, αpt exceeds the synchrotron line of death in few bins, and a thermal signature along with the synchrotron component in the time-resolved spectra is observed. Furthermore, we also report the earliest optical observations constraining afterglow polarization using the MASTER (P < 1.3 %) and the redshift measurement (z= 0.9386) obtained with the 10.4m GTC telescopes. The broadband afterglow can be described with a forward shock model for an ISM-like medium with a wide jet opening angle. We determine a circumburst density of n0 ∼ 7.41, kinetic energy EK ∼ 7.24 × 1054 erg, and radiated γ-ray energy Eγ, iso ∼ 6.05 × 1054 erg, respectively.
The nature of high [O iii]88 μ m/[C ii]158 μm galaxies in the epoch of reionization: Low carbon abundance and a top-heavy IMF?
Authors: Katz Harley , Rosdahl Joakim , Kimm Taysun , Garel Thibault , Blaizot Jérémy , Haehnelt Martin G , Michel-Dansac Léo , Martin-Alvarez Sergio , Devriendt Julien , Slyz Adrianne , Teyssier Romain , Ocvirk Pierre , Laporte Nicolas , Ellis Richard
Published: January 2022

ALMA observations of z > 6 galaxies have revealed abnormally high [O iii]88 $\mu$m/[C ii]158 $\mu$m ratios and [C ii]158 $\mu$m deficits compared to local galaxies. The origin of this behaviour is unknown. Numerous solutions have been proposed including differences in C and O abundance ratios, observational bias, and differences in ISM properties, including ionization parameter, gas density, or photodissociation region (PDR) covering fraction. In order to elucidate the underlying physics that drives this high-redshift phenomenon, we employ sphinx20, a state-of-the-art, cosmological radiation–hydrodynamics simulation, that resolves detailed ISM properties of thousands of galaxies in the epoch of reionization which has been post-processed with cloudy to predict emission lines. We find that the observed z > 6 [O iii]88 $\mu$m–SFR and [C ii]158 $\mu$m–SFR relations can only be reproduced when the C/O abundance ratio is ∼8 × lower than Solar and the total metal production is ∼4 × higher than that of a Kroupa IMF. This implies that high-redshift galaxies are potentially primarily enriched by low-metallicity core–collapse supernovae with a more top-heavy IMF. As AGB stars and type-Ia supernova begin to contribute to the galaxy metallicity, both the [C ii]158 $\mu$m–SFR and [C ii]158 $\mu$m luminosity functions are predicted to converge to observed values at z ∼ 4.5. While we demonstrate that ionization parameter, LyC escape fraction, ISM gas density, and CMB attenuation all drive galaxies towards higher [O iii]88 $\mu$m/[C ii]158 $\mu$m, observed values at z > 6 can only be reproduced with substantially lower C/O abundances compared to Solar. The combination of [C ii]158 $\mu$m and [O iii]88 $\mu$m can be used to predict the values of ionization parameter, ISM gas density, and LyC escape fraction and we provide estimates of these quantities for nine observed z > 6 galaxies. Finally, we demonstrate that [O i]63 $\mu$m can be used as a replacement for [C ii]158 $\mu$ m in high-redshift galaxies where [C ii]158 $\mu$ m is unobserved and argue that more observation time should be used to target [O i]63 $\mu$m at z > 6. Future simulations will be needed to self-consistently address the numerous uncertainties surrounding a varying IMF at high redshift and the associated metal returns.
Mapping the surface of partially cloudy exoplanets is hard
Authors: Teinturier Lucas , Vieira Nicholas , Jacquet Elisa , Geoffrion Juliette , Bestavros Youssef , Keating Dylan , Cowan Nicolas B
Published: January 2022

Reflected light photometry of terrestrial exoplanets could reveal the presence of oceans and continents, hence placing direct constraints on the current and long-term habitability of these worlds. Inferring the albedo map of a planet from its observed light curve is challenging because different maps may yield indistinguishable light curves. This degeneracy is aggravated by changing clouds. It has previously been suggested that disc-integrated photometry spanning multiple days could be combined to obtain a cloud-free surface map of an exoplanet. We demonstrate this technique as part of a Bayesian retrieval by simultaneously fitting for the fixed surface map of a planet and the time-variable overlying clouds. We test this approach on synthetic data and then apply it to real disc-integrated observations of the Earth. We find that 8 d of continuous synthetic observations are sufficient to reconstruct a faithful low-resolution surface albedo map, without needing to make assumptions about cloud physics. For light curves with negligible photometric uncertainties, the minimal top-of-atmosphere albedo at a location is a good estimate of its surface albedo. When applied to observations from the Earth Polychromating Imaging Camera aboard the Deep Space Climate Observatory spacecraft, our approach removes only a small fraction of clouds. We attribute this difficulty to the full-phase geometry of observations combined with the short correlation length for Earth clouds. For exoplanets with Earth-like climatology, it may be hard to do much better than a cloud-averaged map. We surmise that cloud removal will be most successful for exoplanets imaged near quarter phase that harbour large cloud systems.
SORA: Stellar occultation reduction and analysis
Authors: Gomes-Júnior A R , Morgado B E , Benedetti-Rossi G , Boufleur R C , Rommel F L , Banda-Huarca M V , Kilic Y , Braga-Ribas F , Sicardy B
Published: January 2022

The stellar occultation technique provides competitive accuracy in determining the sizes, shapes, astrometry, etc., of the occulting body, comparable to in-situ observations by spacecraft. With the increase in the number of known Solar system objects expected from the LSST, the highly precise astrometric catalogs, such as Gaia, and the improvement of ephemerides, occultations observations will become more common with a higher number of chords in each observation. In the context of the Big Data era, we developed sora, an open-source python library to reduce and analyse stellar occultation data efficiently. It includes routines from predicting such events up to the determination of Solar system bodies’ sizes, shapes, and positions.
IL-37 blocks gouty inflammation by shaping macrophages into a non-inflammatory phagocytic phenotype
Authors: Zhao Li , Zhao Tianyi , Yang Xue , Cao Ling , Xu Rui , Liu Jiyu , Lin Cong , Yu Yiyun , Xuan Dandan , Zhu Xiaoxia , Liu Lei , Hua Yinghui , Deng Chunhui , Wan Weiguo , Zou Hejian , Xue Yu
Published: January 2022

Objective

Interleukin (IL)-37 is a natural suppressor of inflammation. Macrophages play an important role in acute gout flare by dominating the inflammation and spontaneous relief. We have reported that IL-37 could limit runaway inflammation in gout. Here we focus on whether IL-37 inhibits gouty inflammation by altering macrophage functions, and how it does so.

Methods

Macrophage functions were evaluated in terms of phagocytosis, pyroptosis, polarization and metabolism. Phagocytosis and polarization of macrophages were detected by side scattering and double-labelling induced nitrogen monoxide synthase (iNOS)/arginase-1 (Arg-1) using flow cytometry, respectively. Transcription of pyroptosis-related molecules was detected by qPCR. Metabolomics was performed by liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer. Human IL-37 knock-in mice and a model with point mutation (S9A) at mouse Gsk3b locus were created by CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome engineering. MSU was injected into the paws and peritoneal cavity to model acute gout. Vernier calliper was used to measure the thickness of the paws. The mice paws and human synovium tissues or tophi were collected for pathological staining. Peritoneal fluid of mice was used to enrich macrophages to detect polarization.

Results

IL-37 promoted non-inflammatory phagocytic activity of macrophages by enhancing phagocytosis of MSU, reducing transcription of pyroptosis-related proteins and release of inflammatory cytokines, protecting mitochondrial function, and mediating metabolic reprogramming in MSU-treated THP-1 cells. These multifaceted roles of IL-37 were partly depended on the mediation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β).

Conclusions

Our study revealed that IL-37 could shape macrophages into a ‘silent’ non-inflammatory phagocytic fashion. IL-37 may become a potentially valuable treatment option for patients of chronic gout, especially for those with tophi.
Outpatient Cervical Ripening with Balloon Catheters
Authors: Pierce-Williams Rebecca , Lesser Henry , Saccone Gabriele , Harper Lorie , Chen Vicky , Sciscione Anthony , Kuper Spencer , Subramaniam Akila , Ehsanipoor Robert , Berghella Vincenzo
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate whether outpatient cervical ripening with a balloon catheter results in a shorter amount of time in the labor and delivery unit when compared with use in the inpatient setting.

DATA SOURCES:

PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from their inception until December 2020. No restrictions for language or geographic location were applied.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

Using a predefined protocol and search strategy, 1,152 titles were identified and screened. Randomized controlled trials that compared outpatient and inpatient cervical ripening with balloon catheters were included.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS:

Data extraction and risk of bias assessments were performed by two reviewers. Meta-analysis was performed to produce mean difference for continuous data and risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous data, both with a 95% CI. The primary outcome was the amount of time from admission to the labor ward until delivery. Additional secondary maternal and neonatal outcomes were evaluated. Eight trials (740 patients) were included; six studies (571 patients) reported on our primary outcome. Compared with the inpatient group, outpatient balloon cervical ripening was associated with significantly less time in the labor and delivery unit (outpatient 16.3±9.7 hours vs inpatient 23.8±14.0 hours; mean difference −7.24 hours, 95% CI −11.03 to −3.34). There were no differences in total induction time or total hospital admission. The outpatient group was significantly less likely than the inpatient group to undergo cesarean delivery (21% vs 27%), RR 0.76 (95% CI 0.59–0.98). There were no differences in other maternal or neonatal outcomes. There were no deliveries outside of the hospital and no stillbirths.

CONCLUSION:

Outpatient balloon cervical ripening in low-risk patients is associated with a decreased amount of time from admission to labor and delivery until delivery by more than 7 hours and a significant 24% decreased risk of cesarean delivery. Outpatient balloon cervical ripening is a safe alternative for low-risk patients and has the potential for significant benefits to patients, and labor and delivery units.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION:

PROSPERO, CRD42019140503.
Variations in Low-Risk Cesarean Delivery Rates in the United States Using the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Definition
Authors: Ouyang Lijing , Cox Shanna , Ferre Cynthia , Xu Likang , Sappenfield William M. , Barfield Wanda
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To assess variations in low-risk cesarean delivery rates in the United States using the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) definition of low-risk for cesarean delivery and to identify factors associated with low-risk cesarean deliveries.

METHODS:

From hospital discharge data in the 2018 National Inpatient Sample and State Inpatient Databases, we identified deliveries that were low-risk for cesarean delivery using the SMFM definition based on the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes. We estimated national low-risk cesarean delivery rates overall and by patient characteristics, clinically relevant conditions not included in the SMFM definition, and hospital characteristics based on the nationally representative sample of hospital discharges in the National Inpatient Sample. Multivariate logistic regressions were estimated for the national sample to identify factors associated with low-risk cesarean delivery. We reported low-risk cesarean delivery rates for 27 states and the District of Columbia based on the annual state data that represented the universe of hospital discharges from participating states in the State Inpatient Databases.

RESULTS:

Of an estimated 3,634,724 deliveries in the 2018 National Inpatient Sample, 2,484,874 low-risk deliveries met inclusion criteria. The national low-risk cesarean delivery rate in 2018 was 14.6% (95% CI 14.4–14.8%). The rates varied widely by state (range 8.9–18.6%). Nationally, maternal age older than 40 years, non-Hispanic Black or Asian race, private insurance as primary payer, admission on weekday, obesity, diabetes, or hypertension, large metropolitan residence, and hospitals of the South census region were associated with low-risk cesarean delivery.

CONCLUSION:

Approximately one in seven low-risk deliveries was by cesarean in 2018 in the United States using the SMFM definition and the low-risk cesarean delivery rates varied widely by state.
Surgical Removal of Midurethral Sling in Women Undergoing Surgery for Presumed Mesh-Related Complications
Authors: Doyle Paula Jaye , Grimes Cara L. , Balk Ethan M. , Wieslander Cecilia , Richardson Monica , Mamik Mamta M. , Sleemi Ambereen , Alas Alexandriah , Kudish Bela , Walter Andrew J. , Aschkenazi Sarit , Mama Saifuddin , Foda Mohamed , Meriwether Kate V.
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To assess whether some, or all, of the mesh needs to be removed when a midurethral sling is removed for complications.

DATA SOURCES:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. MEDLINE, Cochrane, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases from January 1, 1996, through May 1, 2021, were searched for articles that met the eligibility criteria with total, partial, or a combination of anti-incontinence mesh removal.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

All study designs were included (N≥10), and a priori criteria were used for acceptance standards. Studies were extracted for demographics, operative outcomes, and adverse events. Meta-analysis was performed when possible.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS:

We double-screened 11,887 abstracts; 45 eligible and unique studies were identified. Thirty-five were single-group studies that evaluated partial mesh removal, five were single-group studies that evaluated total mesh removal, and five were studies that compared partial mesh removal with total mesh removal. All of the studies were retrospective in nature; there were no randomized controlled studies. Comparative studies demonstrated that partial mesh removal had lower rates of postoperative stress urinary incontinence (SUI) than total mesh removal (odds ratio 0.46, 95% CI 0.22–0.96). Single-group studies supported lower rates of postoperative SUI with partial mesh removal compared with total mesh removal (19.2% [95% CI 13.5–25.7] vs 48.7% [95% CI 31.2–66.4]). Both methods were similar with respect to associated pain, bladder outlet obstruction, mesh erosion or exposure, and lower urinary tract symptoms. Adverse events were infrequent.

CONCLUSION:

Postoperative SUI may be lower with partial mesh removal compared with total mesh removal. Other outcomes were similar regardless of the amount of mesh removed.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION:

PROSPERO, CRD 42018093099.
Association of Medicaid Expansion Under the Affordable Care Act With Perinatal Care Access and Utilization Among Low-Income Women
Authors: Sun Eric P. , Guglielminotti Jean , Chihuri Stanford , Li Guohua
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To synthesize the empirical research evidence about the association between Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and increasing perinatal care access and utilization among low-income women.

DATA SOURCES:

We searched MEDLINE through PubMed (1966–present), EMBASE (Ovid), the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (1982–present), PAIS Index (ProQuest), Web of Science (1900–present), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Our review focuses on the association between Medicaid expansion under the ACA and perinatal care access and utilization, which cannot be subjected to randomized controlled trials, therefore ClinicalTrials.gov was not included in our search.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION:

A comprehensive search of the research literature was performed using Covidence. Studies were eligible if they were based on population data and research designs ensuring that the exposure (ie, Medicaid expansion under the ACA) preceded the perinatal care access or utilization outcome, had an appropriate comparison group, presented quantitative data, and examined pregnant or postpartum women. The search in six bibliographic databases returned 1,243 records, with 855 abstracts reviewed, 34 full-text articles screened for eligibility, and nine eligible studies included in the systematic review.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS:

Stata 16 software was used to generate summary estimates, forest plots, funnel plots, and heterogeneity statistics. Random effects modeling based on pooled data revealed that Medicaid expansion was associated with a 6.1% increase in Medicaid enrollment for pregnant women (95% CI 1.3–10.9%) and a 3.3% increase in perinatal care utilization (95% CI 0.2–6.3%).

CONCLUSION:

Medicaid expansion under the ACA is associated with a modest and statistically significant increase in perinatal care access and utilization among low-income women.
Impact of Glutathione S-Transferase Polymorphisms on Busulfan Pharmacokinetics and Outcomes of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Al-Riyami Intisar , Al-Khabori Murtadha , Al Balushi Khalid , Al-Zadjali Shoaib , Al-Rawahi Mohammed , Dennison David , Al-Hunaini Mohammed , Al-Rawas Abdulhakeem , Al-Moundhri Mansour
Published: January 2022

Background:

Busulfan (Bu) is an alkylating drug used in many preparative regimens before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). It is conjugated in the liver mainly by glutathione S-transferase isoenzyme A1-1 (GSTA1). Genetic polymorphisms in these isoenzymes may affect the pharmacokinetics of Bu and the clinical outcomes of HSCT. This study aimed to assess the impact of glutathione S-transferase (GST) genetic polymorphisms on the clearance of Bu and the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing HSCT.

Methods:

This single-center retrospective study included patients who received IV Bu before HSCT at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), Oman from January 2003 to October 2016. Genotyping for polymorphisms was performed for GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTA1, and GSTP1. Each GST polymorphism was analyzed for its impact on Bu clearance and HSCT outcomes.

Results:

A total of 135 patients were included. The mean Bu clearance was 3.7 ± 0.98 mL/min/kg. Patients with GSTA1 A-513G heterozygosity (AG) were found to have a higher incidence of graft loss (P = 0.006). Homozygous double null of GSTM1 and GSTT1 was associated with a higher incidence of acute graft versus host disease (P = 0.04). Double non-null GSTM1 and GSTT1 and non-null GSTM1 increased the risk of mortality (P = 0.034 and 0.021, respectively).

Conclusions:

GST genotyping before HSCT may predict HSCT outcomes. The results of this preliminary retrospective study need to be confirmed in a larger prospective study.
Plasma and Platelet Transfusion Strategies in Critically Ill Children Following Severe Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury, and/or Intracranial Hemorrhage: From the Transfusion and Anemia EXpertise Initiative–Control/Avoidance of Bleeding
Authors: Russell Robert , Bauer David F. , Goobie Susan M. , Haas Thorsten , Nellis Marianne E. , Nishijima Daniel K. , Vogel Adam M. , Lacroix Jacques ,   for the Transfusion and Anemia EXpertise Initiative–Control/Avoidance of Bleeding (TAXI-CAB), the Pediatric Critical Care Blood Research Network (BloodNet), and the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators (PALISI) Network
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

To present consensus statements and supporting literature for plasma and platelet transfusions in critically ill children with severe trauma, traumatic brain injury, and/or intracranial hemorrhage from the Transfusion and Anemia EXpertise Initiative–Control/Avoidance of Bleeding.

Design:

Systematic review and consensus conference of international, multidisciplinary experts in platelet and plasma transfusion management of critically ill children.

Setting:

Not applicable.

Patients:

Critically ill neonates and children with severe trauma, traumatic brain injury, and/or intracranial hemorrhage.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

A panel of eight experts developed expert-based statements for plasma and platelet transfusions in critically ill neonates and children with severe trauma, traumatic brain injury, and/or intracranial hemorrhage. These statements were reviewed and ratified by the 29 Transfusion and Anemia EXpertise Initiative–Control/Avoidance of Bleeding experts. A systematic review was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases, from inception to December 2020. Consensus was obtained using the Research and Development/University of California, Los Angeles Appropriateness Method. Results were summarized using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation method. We developed one good practice statement and six expert consensus statements.

Conclusions:

The lack of evidence precludes proposing recommendations on monitoring of the coagulation system and on plasma and platelets transfusion in critically ill pediatric patients with severe trauma, severe traumatic brain injury, or nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage.
Oral Aversion in Infants With Congenital Heart Disease: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study*
Authors: Goldstein Stephanie A. , Watkins Kimberly J. , Lowery Ray E. , Yu Sunkyung , Knight Rachel M. , Drayton Amy K. , Sayers Laura , Gaies Michael
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVES:

Neonates undergoing cardiac surgery are at risk for oral aversion (OA). OA is not well described outside of the index hospitalization and impacts patients and families. We evaluated the prevalence of OA at 1 year old after neonatal cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING:

Single quaternary care hospital.

SUBJECTS:

Our cohort included 157 neonates who underwent CPB surgery from 2014 to 2017 and had follow-up data available at 1 year old.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Three feeding experts reviewed the medical record to define children with OA; 30% of charts were evaluated in triplicate for validation. Neonates with and without OA were compared in univariate analysis, and risk factors for OA were explored in a limited multivariable analysis. OA was present at 1 year in 37 patients (23.6%) and other feeding difficulties were present in an additional 29 patients (18.5%). Thirty-eight patients (24.2%) had a feeding tube, including 12 (7.6%) with a gastrostomy tube. Factors associated with OA at 1 year included total ICU days, duration of mechanical ventilation, total number of nil per os days, and number of postoperative days (PODs) until oral feeding initiation (all p < 0.0001). Number of POD until oral feeding initiation remained independently associated with OA at 1 year in multivariable analysis (adjusted odds ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04–1.12; p < 0.0001). Infants with any oral intake at discharge had lower odds of OA at 1 year (0.21; 95% CI, 0.08–0.5; p = 0.0003). At hospital discharge, 132 patients (84.1%) were taking some oral feeds, and 128 patients (81.5%) received tube feeding.

CONCLUSIONS:

OA and other feeding difficulties are common at 1 year old in neonates undergoing CPB surgery. Delayed exposure to oral intake may be a modifiable risk factor for OA and efforts to improve early oral feeding could lead to better functional outcomes.
Evaluating Clinician Attitudes After Local Implementation of the Veterans Affairs Predictive Analytic Model for Suicide Prevention
Authors: Piccirillo Marilyn L. , Pruitt Larry D. , Reger Mark A.
Published: January 2022

Objective:

The Recovery Engagement and Coordination for Health—Veterans Enhanced Treatment (REACH VET) program was launched in 2017 to identify Veterans at high risk for suicide and other adverse outcomes using predictive analytics. This quality improvement study evaluated the sustainment of the REACH VET program at a large Veterans Affairs health care system by assessing clinician attitudes.

Methods:

A mixed-methods approach was used to collect anonymous survey (N=35) and qualitative interview (n=12) data from Veterans Affairs REACH VET providers.

Results:

Survey findings demonstrated largely neutral to negative attitudes towards REACH VET, with the most notable responses indicating that REACH VET identified Veterans who were already perceived to be engaged in care. Interview findings reflected a variety of attitudes, including perceived lack of added value and pessimism regarding successful outreach. Clinicians reported that the program was values-consistent and had the potential to improve the quality of care.

Conclusions:

Results demonstrate the need for educational interventions and improved communication between local coordinators and clinicians. Clinicians rarely discussed fears about the algorithmic approach, but they highlighted concerns about the value that this approach added to their role. Future evaluations are needed to examine additional sustainment issues.
Do Patients With Treatment-resistant Disorders Recover?
Authors: Plakun Eric M.
Published: January 2022

This column describes the challenge posed by patients with treatment-resistant disorders. It then reviews a recently published study demonstrating that with adequate treatment and enough time—over a decade—even patients with conditions that were previously considered treatment-resistant and who have high degrees of comorbidity, suicide risk, and a significant number of prior hospitalizations can achieve full recovery in terms of measures of psychodynamic conflicts, symptoms, and overall functioning. These areas of improvement converge and thus appear to be linked, suggesting the transdiagnostic relevance of psychodynamic measures.
A Plausible Explanation of Increased Suicidal Behaviors Among Transgender Youth Based on the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS): Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Phillip Antonia , Pellechi Ashabari , DeSilva Roshi , Semler Keith , Makani Ramkrishna
Published: January 2022

Background:

Growing data on suicidal behavior among members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and other sexual/gender minority (LGBTQ+) communities, particularly in the transgender subgroup, demonstrate that there is a stark elevation in suicidality compared with rates in their cisgender counterparts. Among the available theories of suicide, the interpersonal theory of suicide (IPTS) is a plausible explanation for the increased suicidal behaviors among transgender youths.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to examine the pathologic basis of treatment-resistant suicidality in transgender youth despite favorable environments using the theoretical framework of the IPTS, supported by a literature review and case series.

Methods:

We conducted a literature review using PubMed and PsycInfo with key words suicidal ideation, suicidality, transgender, transgender youth, gender dysphoria, and interpersonal theory of suicide. Seventy-eight articles were retrieved, which were then narrowed down to 30 articles after non-English articles and irrelevant topics were excluded. The clinical presentations of 5 transgender youths, 11 to 17 years of age, were found to be correlated with relevant reports in the research literature, implying a plausible rationale for elevated rates of suicide. All patients and families supplied verbal consent for these case reports to be published.

Results:

Reasons for suicidal behavior among the patients included thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness leading to perpetual suicidal behavior. The presence in these cases of the following contributing factors in the IPTS—thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and acquired capability for suicide—suggests that such a basis exists. Perceived burdensomeness appears to have a greater correlation with developing suicidal behavior than thwarted belongingness alone, but the presence of both demonstrates the highest risk of suicidality in transgender youth. Transgender children and adolescents are at extremely high risk of suicidal behavior, but little research has been devoted to the etiology and plausible explanations for this elevated risk, despite growing awareness of and support for the problem. This review suggests further research is required on the triadic factor interactions of the IPTS model that could help us to better understand and intervene with this high-risk population.
Overlapping Reconstructions in Thin-section Computed Tomography: Benefits for Lung Nodule Volume Measurements
Authors: Eberhard Matthias , Martini Katharina , Euler Andre , Frauenfelder Thomas
Published: January 2022

The aim of our study was to assess the influence of overlapping image reconstruction on thin-section chest computed tomography (CT) in patients with small lung nodules. In all, 40 patients with 128 pulmonary nodules underwent chest CT on a third-generation dual-source CT. All images were reconstructed with a section thickness of 1 mm and an increment of 0.5 to 1 mm. Two readers performed volume measurements with a commercially available software package. Our data indicate no relevant differences (P=0.44) for volume measurements of solid lung nodules comparing overlapping (50% overlap) and nonoverlapping image reconstructions with a mean difference of 0.5±2.3 mm3 and a mean absolute difference of nodule volume of 2±2% (range, 0% to 11%). Interobserver differences were 1.0±3.7 mm3 (reconstruction with 50 overlap) and 1.1±4.1 mm3 (nonoverlapping reconstructions). Differences in nodule volume measurements between overlapping and nonoverlapping image reconstructions were similar compared with interobserver differences. Obviating the reconstruction of overlapping sections for lung nodule volume measurements would reduce the duration of image reconstruction and amount of data storage.
Comparison of Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography Image Quality With High-concentration and Low-concentration Contrast Agents
Authors: Im Dong Jin , Kim Yun-Hyeon , Choo Ki Seok , Kang Joon-Won , Jung Jung Im , Won Yoodong , Kim Hyo Rim , Chung Myung Hee , Han Kyunghwa , Choi Byoung Wook
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

To confirm that the image quality of coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography with a low tube voltage (80 to 100 kVp), iterative reconstruction, and low-concentration contrast agents (iodixanol 270 to 320 mgI/mL) was not inferior to that with conventional high tube voltage (120 kVp) and high-concentration contrast agent (iopamidol 370 mgI/mL).

Materials and Methods:

This prospective, multicenter, noninferiority, randomized trial enrolled a total of 318 patients from 8 clinical sites. All patients were randomly assigned 1: 1: 1 for each contrast medium of 270, 320, and 370 mgI/mL. CT scans were taken with a standard protocol in the high-concentration group (370 mgI/mL) and with 20 kVp lower protocol in the low-concentration group (270 or 320 mgI/mL). Image quality and radiation dose were compared between the groups. Image quality was evaluated with a score of 1 to 4 as subject image quality.

Results:

The mean HU, signal-to-noise ratio, and contrast-to-noise ratio of the 3 groups were significantly different (all P<0.0001). The signal-to-noise ratio and contrast-to-noise ratio of the low-concentration groups were significantly lower than those of the high-concentration group (P<0.05). However, the image quality scores were not significantly different among the 3 groups (P=0.745). The dose length product and effective dose of the high-concentration group were significantly higher than those of the low-concentration group (P<0.0001 and 0.003, respectively).

Conclusions:

The CT protocol with iterative reconstruction and lower tube voltage for low-concentration contrast agents significantly reduced the effective radiation dose (mean: 3.7±2.7 to 4.1±3.1 mSv) while keeping the subjective image quality as good as the standard protocol (mean: 5.7±3.4 mSv).
Diminished antibody response against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant after third dose of mRNA vaccine in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Jurdi Ayman Al , Gassen Rodrigo B. , Borges Thiago J. , Lape Isadora T. , Morena Leela , Efe Orhan , Solhjou Zhabiz , Fekih Rania El , Deban Christa , Bohan Brigid , Pattanayak Vikram , Kotton Camille N. , Azzi Jamil R. , Riella Leonardo V.
Published: January 2022

Background

Available SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have reduced efficacy against the Omicron variant in immunocompetent individuals. Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have diminished antiviral responses to wild-type SARS-CoV-2 after vaccination, and data on antiviral responses to SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the Omicron variant, are limited.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, multi-center cohort study of 51 adult KTRs who received three doses of BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273. Blood and urine samples were collected before and four weeks after the third vaccine dose. The primary outcome was anti-viral antibody responses against wild-type and variants of SARS-CoV-2. Secondary objectives included occurrence of breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection and non-invasive monitoring for rejection using serum creatinine, proteinuria, donor-derived cell-free DNA and donor-specific antibodies. Sera from pre-pandemic healthy controls and KTRs were used for comparison.

Results

67% of KTRs developed anti-wild-type spike antibodies after the third vaccine dose, similar to the Alpha (51%) and Beta (53%) variants, but higher than the Gamma (39%) and Delta (25%) variants. No KTRs had neutralizing responses to the Omicron variant before the third vaccine dose. After the third dose, fewer KTRs had neutralizing responses to the Omicron variant (12%) compared to wild-type (61%) and Delta (59%) variants. Three patients (6%) developed breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection at a median of 89 days. No KTRs developed allograft injury, de novo donor-specific antibodies or allograft rejection.

Conclusion

In KTRs, a third dose of mRNA vaccines increases antibody responses against wild-type and variants of SARS-CoV-2, while neutralizing responses to the Omicron variant remain markedly reduced.
EchinoDB: An update to the web-based application for genomic and transcriptomic data on echinoderms
Authors: Mittal Varnika , Reid Robert W. , Machado Denis Jacob , Mashanov Vladimir , Janies Daniel A.
Published: January 2022

Here we release a new version of EchinoDB (https://echinodb.uncc.edu). EchinoDB is a database of genomic and transcriptomic data on echinoderms. The initial database consisted of groups of 749,397 orthologous and paralogous transcripts arranged in orthoclusters by sequence similarity. The new version of EchinoDB includes RNA-seq data of the brittle star Ophioderma brevispinum and high-quality genomic assembly data of the green sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus. In addition, we enabled keyword searches for annotated data and installed an updated version of Sequenceserver to allow BLAST searches. The data are downloadable in FASTA format. The first version of EchinoDB appeared in 2016 and was implemented in GO on a local server. The new version has been updated using R Shiny to include new features and improvements in the application. Furthermore, EchinoDB now runs entirely in the cloud for increased reliability and scaling. EchinoDB enjoys a user base drawn from the fields of phylogenetics, developmental biology, genomics, physiology, neurobiology, and regeneration. As use cases, we illustrate how EchinoDB is used in discovering pathways and gene regulatory networks involved in the tissue regeneration process.
Neuropsychological and neuroanatomical features of patients with behavioral variant Alzheimer’s disease (AD): a comparison to behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia and amnestic AD groups
Authors: Perez Sophia Dominguez , Phillips Jeffrey S. , Norise Catherine , Kinney Nikolas G. , Vaddi Prerana , Halpin Amy , Rascovsky Katya , Irwin David J. , McMillan Corey T. , Xie Long , Wisse Laura E.M. , Yushkevich Paul A. , Kallogjeri Dorina , Grossman Murray , Cousins Katheryn A.Q.
Published: January 2022

An understudied non-amnestic variant of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), behavioral variant AD (bvAD) is associated with progressive personality, behavior, or executive dysfunction and frontal atrophy. This study characterizes the neuropsychological and neuroanatomical features associated with bvAD by comparing it to behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), amnestic AD (aAD), and subjects with normal cognition. Subjects included 16 bvAD, 67 bvFTD, and 18 aAD patients, and 26 healthy controls. Compared to bvFTD, bvAD showed more significant visuospatial impairments (Rey Figure copy and recall), more irritability (Neuropsychological Inventory), and equivalent verbal memory (Philadelphia Verbal Learning Test). Compared to aAD, bvAD indicated more executive dysfunction (F-letter fluency) and better visuospatial performance. Neuroimaging analysis found that bvAD showed cortical thinning relative to bvFTD posteriorly in left temporal-occipital regions; bvFTD had cortical thinning relative to bvAD in left inferior frontal cortex. bvAD had cortical thinning relative to aAD in prefrontal and anterior temporal regions. All patient groups had lower volumes than controls in both anterior and posterior hippocampus. However, bvAD patients had higher average volume than aAD patients in posterior hippocampus and higher volume than bvFTD patients in anterior hippocampus after adjustment for age and intracranial volume. Findings demonstrated that underlying pathology mediates disease presentation in bvAD and bvFTD.