bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multimodal neuroimaging data integration and pathway analysis
Authors: Zhao Yi , Li Lexin , Caffo Brian S.
Published: August 2020

With advancements in technology, the collection of multiple types of measurements on a common set of subjects is becoming routine in science. Some notable examples include multimodal neuroimaging studies for the simultaneous investigation of brain structure and function and multi‐omics studies for combining genetic and genomic information. Integrative analysis of multimodal data allows scientists to interrogate new mechanistic questions. However, the data collection and generation of integrative hypotheses is outpacing available methodology for joint analysis of multimodal measurements. In this article, we study high‐dimensional multimodal data integration in the context of mediation analysis. We aim to understand the roles that different data modalities play as possible mediators in the pathway between an exposure variable and an outcome. We propose a mediation model framework with two data types serving as separate sets of mediators and develop a penalized optimization approach for parameter estimation. We study both the theoretical properties of the estimator through an asymptotic analysis and its finite‐sample performance through simulations. We illustrate our method with a multimodal brain pathway analysis having both structural and functional connectivity as mediators in the association between sex and language processing.
Direct‐acting antiviral agents for hepatitis C virus‐mixed cryoglobulinaemia: dissociated virological and haematological responses
Authors: Pozzato Gabriele , Mazzaro Cesare , Artemova Marina , Abdurakhmanov Dzhamal , Grassi Gabriele , Crosato Ivo , Mauro Endri , Ghersetti Michela , Zorat Francesca , Bomben Riccardo , Bulian Pietro , Gattei Valter
Published: August 2020

The hepatitis C virus‐positive (HCV+) mixed cryoglobulinaemia (MC) is associated with haematological alterations such as monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis or non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs). Antiviral therapy for MC, based on interferon and ribavirin, has been shown to be able to eliminate the viral replication as well as the B‐cell monoclonal alterations. Many studies have reported the efficacy of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) in the treatment of HCV+ MC. However, some authors noticed the persistence of haematological diseases despite HCV eradication. To verify the effects of DAAs on B‐cell proliferation, we evaluated 67 patients with HCV+ MC. Six patients had an overt NHL and 30% had monoclonal B‐lymphocytosis. In 20% of the patients, the mutation L265P of the myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MYD88) gene was detected in peripheral blood. All patients had negative HCV viraemia at week 12; one had a breakthrough, while two cases relapsed. A complete clinical response of vasculitis was seen in 60% of the patients. Among the six patients with NHL, one showed a complete response, whereas in the others there were no changes in the number and size of the nodes. Among the patients carrying a clonal population in peripheral blood, only 22% became negative. These data indicate that DAAs are not able to eliminate the clonal alterations induced by HCV in a large proportion of cases.
Remixed methodologies in community‐based film research
Authors: McCreary Tyler , Murnaghan Ann Marie F.
Published: August 2020

This paper explores how remixed methodologies can inform research in Indigenous communities using short films, combining archival and contemporary footage. Drawing on the lineages of Indigenous and feminist community‐based research methodologies, we develop a three‐part conception of remixed methodologies. We emphasize, first, the need to resituate the process of knowledge production within relationships between researchers and Indigenous community members. Second, we stress the importance of reconsidering the intended outputs of community‐university collaboration to centre community goals. Third, we underscore how remixed methodologies can disrupt the narratives surrounding settler colonial archival resources, resituating historical footage with relation to contemporary Indigenous contexts. We apply this framework to our collaborative work with the Witsuwit'en Cultural and Language Authority and the Office of Aboriginal Education at British Columbia School District #54, combining archival and contemporary films to create Indigenous education resources. Specifically, we remixed footage of Witsuwit'en traditional activities from two 1927 National Museum of Canada films with contemporary interviews and footage of Witsuwit'en governance and land use activities. We highlight how making archival films relevant to contemporary Indigenous community goals required disrupting the conventions of scholarly authority, designing collaborative outputs to suit community aims, and resituating knowledge production within the context of Witsuwit'en resilience in the face of colonialism.
Examining Indigenous perspectives on the health implications of large‐scale agriculture in Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: Day Angela , Magaña‐González Claudia Rocío , Wilson Kathi
Published: August 2020

In Mexico, as in many other parts of the world, industrial agriculture is dramatically changing rural landscapes and altering relationships with the land. This paper draws on community‐based research from a collaborative international research project that examined the perceived health implications of the agricultural industry for Indigenous peoples in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Thirty interviews were conducted in a Nahuas community experiencing expanding agribusiness industries. The results of this study show that the implications of export‐oriented agricultural industry for this Nahuas community are complex and, at times, contradictory: employment in the agricultural industry provides community members with much‐needed sources of income, but it is precarious work. At the same time, community members are concerned about the long‐term health and environmental implications, such as increased exposure to chemicals, depletion of the soil and water, and loss of traditional food and lifeways. These results suggest that to better understand the costs and benefits of large‐scale agriculture for Indigenous health, a broad lens of health that is situated in the context of colonial legacies and the particularities of relationships with the land is required.
Swedish parents' experiences of their role in treatment for children with congenital limb reduction deficiency: Decision‐making and treatment support
Authors: Sjöberg Lis , Hermansson Liselotte , Lindner Helen , Fredriksson Carin
Published: August 2020

Background

Parents of children with congenital limb reduction deficiency have an essential role in making treatment decisions during their child's first years of life. Treatment options usually concern surgical and/or prosthetic treatment. To tailor treatment options to fit different family values and priorities, the family‐centred approach indicates the importance of understanding the parental role in partnership with health care professionals. The aim of this study was to describe parents' experiences of their role in decision‐making and treatment for children with congenital limb reduction deficiency.

Methods

A descriptive design with a qualitative approach was used. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 17 parents (12 mothers and 5 fathers) of children with upper and/or lower limb deficiency (mean age 5.9 years). The interview data were analysed using qualitative content analysis with an inductive approach.

Results

Two major themes emerged from the data. The first theme, being a decision maker for someone else, was described as an ambivalent parental role, including collaboration within the family and with health care professionals. The second theme, becoming and being a treatment supporter in the child's everyday life, was made up of four categories: being a supporter of the child in everyday activities, mentoring the child to handle encounters with others, becoming a coordinator of information and being an ‘extended arm’ of the health care provision for the child.

Conclusions

This study enhances our understanding of the parental role in decision‐making and treatment for children with congenital limb reduction deficiency. The results may contribute to the continued development of the family‐centred service approach by providing guidelines for treatment programmes, with the goal of improving decision support and broadening the support for parents during treatment for these children.
Intraindividual comparison of 18F‐FDOPA and 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET/CT detection rate for metastatic assessment in patients with ileal neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Ouvrard Eric , Chevalier Elodie , Addeo Pietro , Sahakian Nicolas , Detour Julien , Goichot Bernard , Bachellier Philippe , Karcher Gilles , Taïeb David , Imperiale Alessio
Published: August 2020

Introduction

In patients with ileal neuroendocrine tumours (ileal NETs), head‐to‐head evaluation of diagnostic performances of 68Ga‐DOTA‐peptides and 18F‐fluorodihydroxyphenylalanine (18F‐FDOPA) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has been performed in only few small patients’ cohorts. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare 68Ga‐DOTATOC and 18F‐FDOPA PET/CT for metastatic disease assessment in a homogeneous large series of patients with well‐differentiated ileal NETs.

Methods

All patients with ileal NETs who underwent both 18F‐FDOPA and 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET/CT within a 3‐month period and no therapeutic change between the two studies were retrospectively included. The detection rates of both modalities were calculated using per‐patient, per‐region and per‐lesion analyses.

Results

Forty one patients with ileal NETs were evaluated. 18F‐FDOPA and 68Ga‐DOTATOC showed similar detection rates according to per‐patient (97% for both) and per‐region analyses (94% for 18F‐FDOPA vs 88% for 68Ga‐DOTATOC, P = .35). For a total of 605 positive lesions, 458 (76%) were detected by both modalities, 122 (20%) exclusively by 18F‐FDOPA PET/CT, and 25 (4%) by 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET/CT only. In a per‐lesion analysis, 18F‐FDOPA PET/CT performed better than 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET/CT (overall detection rates of 96% vs 80%; P < .001). 18F‐FDOPA PET/CT detected significantly more metastases than 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET/CT in the liver, peritoneum, abdominal and supra‐diaphragmatic lymph nodes.

Conclusion

18F‐FDOPA PET/CT seems not inferior than 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET/CT for the delineation of metastatic spread of ileal NETs. Therefore, according to local expertise and technical availability, 18F‐FDOPA should be considered as a valid clinical diagnostic option for exhaustive metastatic assessment in patients with ileal NETs. Obviously, 68Ga‐DOTATOC PET/CT remains mandatory for PRRT assessment. Further comparative studies are needed to determine the optimal approach in various clinical scenarios such as preoperative staging and primary tumour detection.
Approximating isosurfaces by guaranteed‐quality triangular meshes
Authors: Hass J. , Trnkova M.
Published: August 2020

We describe a new method for approximating an implicit surface F by a piecewise‐flat triangulated surface whose triangles are as close as possible to equilateral. The main advantage is improved mesh quality which is guaranteed for smooth surfaces. The GradNormal algorithm generates a triangular mesh that gives a piecewise‐differentiable approximation of F, with angles between 35.2 and 101.5 degrees. As the mesh size approaches 0, the mesh converges to F through surfaces that are isotopic to F.
Interpolated corrected curvature measures for polygonal surfaces
Authors: Lachaud J.‐O. , Romon P. , Thibert B. , Coeurjolly D.
Published: August 2020

A consistent and yet practically accurate definition of curvature onto polyhedral meshes remains an open problem. We propose a new framework to define curvature measures, based on the Corrected Normal Current, which generalizes the normal cycle: it uncouples the positional information of the polyhedral mesh from its geometric normal vector field, and the user can freely choose the corrected normal vector field at vertices for curvature computations. A smooth surface is then built in the Grassmannian ℝ3 × 𝕊2 by simply interpolating the given normal vector field. Curvature measures are then computed using the usual Lipschitz–Killing forms, and we provide closed‐form formulas per triangle. We prove a stability result with respect to perturbations of positions and normals. Our approach provides a natural scale‐space for all curvature estimations, where the scale is given by the radius of the measuring ball. We show on experiments how this method outperforms state‐of‐the‐art methods on clean and noisy data, and even achieves pointwise convergence on difficult polyhedral meshes like digital surfaces. The framework is also well suited to curvature computations using normal map information.
Hexahedral Mesh Repair via Sum‐of‐Squares Relaxation
Authors: Marschner Z. , Palmer D. , Zhang P. , Solomon J.
Published: August 2020

The validity of trilinear hexahedral (hex) mesh elements is a prerequisite for many applications of hex meshes, such as finite element analysis. A commonly used check for hex mesh validity evaluates mesh quality on the corners of the parameter domain of each hex, an insufficient condition that neglects invalidity elsewhere in the element, but is straightforward to compute. Hex mesh quality optimizations using this validity criterion suffer by being unable to detect invalidities in a hex mesh reliably, let alone fix them. We rectify these challenges by leveraging sum‐of‐squares relaxations to pinpoint invalidities in a hex mesh efficiently and robustly. Furthermore, we design a hex mesh repair algorithm that can certify validity of the entire hex mesh. We demonstrate our hex mesh repair algorithm on a dataset of meshes that include hexes with both corner and face‐interior invalidities and demonstrate that where naïve algorithms would fail to even detect invalidities, we are able to repair them. Our novel methodology also introduces the general machinery of sum‐of‐squares relaxation to geometry processing, where it has the potential to solve related problems.
Poisson Surface Reconstruction with Envelope Constraints
Authors: Kazhdan Misha , Chuang Ming , Rusinkiewicz Szymon , Hoppe Hugues
Published: August 2020

Reconstructing surfaces from scanned 3D points has been an important research area for several decades. One common approach that has proven efficient and robust to noise is implicit surface reconstruction, i.e. fitting to the points a 3D scalar function (such as an indicator function or signed‐distance field) and then extracting an isosurface. Though many techniques fall within this category, existing methods either impose no boundary constraints or impose Dirichlet/Neumann conditions on the surface of a bounding box containing the scanned data.

In this work, we demonstrate the benefit of supporting Dirichlet constraints on a general boundary. To this end, we adapt the Screened Poisson Reconstruction algorithm to input a constraint envelope in addition to the oriented point cloud. We impose Dirichlet boundary conditions, forcing the reconstructed implicit function to be zero outside this constraint surface. Using a visual hull and/or depth hull derived from RGB‐D scans to define the constraint envelope, we obtain substantially improved surface reconstructions in regions of missing data.
Learning Part Boundaries from 3D Point Clouds
Authors: Loizou Marios , Averkiou Melinos , Kalogerakis Evangelos
Published: August 2020

We present a method that detects boundaries of parts in 3D shapes represented as point clouds. Our method is based on a graph convolutional network architecture that outputs a probability for a point to lie in an area that separates two or more parts in a 3D shape. Our boundary detector is quite generic: it can be trained to localize boundaries of semantic parts or geometric primitives commonly used in 3D modeling. Our experiments demonstrate that our method can extract more accurate boundaries that are closer to ground‐truth ones compared to alternatives. We also demonstrate an application of our network to fine‐grained semantic shape segmentation, where we also show improvements in terms of part labeling performance.
Consistent ZoomOut: Efficient Spectral Map Synchronization
Authors: Huang Ruqi , Ren Jing , Wonka Peter , Ovsjanikov Maks
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we propose a novel method, which we call Consistent ZoomOut, for efficiently refining correspondences among deformable 3D shape collections, while promoting the resulting map consistency. Our formulation is closely related to a recent unidirectional spectral refinement framework, but naturally integrates map consistency constraints into the refinement. Beyond that, we show further that our formulation can be adapted to recover the underlying isometry among near‐isometric shape collections with a theoretical guarantee, which is absent in the other spectral map synchronization frameworks. We demonstrate that our method improves the accuracy compared to the competing methods when synchronizing correspondences in both near‐isometric and heterogeneous shape collections, but also significantly outperforms the baselines in terms of map consistency.
Histological and histomorphometrical outcome after lateral guided bone regeneration augmentation of the mandible with different ratios of deproteinized bovine bone mineral and autogenous bone. A preclinical in vivo study
Authors: Aludden Hanna , Mordenfeld Arne , Dahlin Christer , Hallman Mats , Starch‐Jensen Thomas
Published: August 2020

Objective

To test the hypotheses of no differences in (I) percentage of bone (POB), non‐mineralized tissue (NMT), and deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM), and (II) ingrowth of mineralized bone after lateral guided bone regeneration (GBR) augmentation of the mandible with different ratios of DBBM and particulate autogenous bone (PAB) at different time points.

Material and methods

Twenty‐four minipigs were randomly allocated into three groups. Lateral augmentation in 96 sites (4 in each animal) was performed unilaterally with a standardized quantity of grafting material in each animal with different ratios of DBBM and PAB (50:50, 75:25, 100:0) and autogenous bone block in combination with DBBM and covered with a collagen membrane. The percentage of different tissues in the graft and ingrowth of mineralized bone was assessed by histomorphometrical and histological analyses after 10, 20, and 30 weeks, respectively.

Results

The POB was 54% (50:50), 50% (75:25), and 48% (100:0) after 10 weeks, 60% (50:50), 61% (75:25), and 60% (100:0) after 20 weeks, and 63% (50:50), 62% (75:25), and 62% (100:0) after 30 weeks. There was no significant difference between the groups at any time points. There was a significant increase in POB and a significant decrease in NMT for 75:25 and 100:0 from 10 to 30 weeks. All ratios demonstrated a non‐complete ingrowth of mineralized bone into the graft after 10 weeks and complete mineralization after 30 weeks.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the present study, it seems like addition of autogenous bone to DBBM for LRA did not affect the bone formation nor graft incorporation after 10–30 weeks of healing. However, a prolonged healing time seems to result in an increased POB for all ratios.
The COVID‐19 pandemic: considerations for resuming normal colorectal services
Authors: Pellino G. , Vaizey C. J. , Maeda Y. ,   the European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) Guideline Committee
Published: August 2020

This European Society of Coloproctology guidance focuses on a proposed conceptual framework to resume standard service in colorectal surgery. The proposed conceptual framework is a schematic and stepwise approach including: in‐depth assessment of damage to non‐COVID‐19‐related colorectal service; the return of service (integration with the COVID‐19‐specific service and the existing operational continuity planning); safety arrangements in parallel with minimizing downtime; the required support for staff and patients; the aftermath of the pandemic and continued strategic planning. This will be dynamic guidance with ongoing updates using critical appraisal of emerging evidence. We will welcome input from all stakeholders (statutory organizations, healthcare professionals, public and patients). Any new questions, new data and discussion are welcome via https://www.escp.eu.com/guidelines.
941. MEDIOCALCAR UMBOIENSE
Authors: Schuiteman André , Cribb Phillip
Published: August 2020

Mediocalcar umboienseSchuit., a native of New Guinea, is illustrated. Its ecology and possible pollinators are explained. Suggestions for its successful cultivation are given.
944. CHRYSOSPLENIUM DAVIDIANUM
Authors: Rix Martyn , Ohba Hideaki
Published: August 2020

Chrysosplenium davidianum Decne ex Maxim. is illustrated from a collection made in Yunnan, west of Dali. Its distribution is described, and it is compared with other similar species.
Metastatic breast cancer diagnosed on cervical cytology
Authors: Yuan Lisi , Oshilaja Olaronke , Sierk Anne , Zhang Gloria , Booth Christine N. , Brainard Jennifer , Dyhdalo Kathryn S.
Published: August 2020

An unusual case is described of a 64‐year‐old woman with a remote history of breast cancer whose first non‐nodal metastasis was discovered on a routine Pap test. The Pap test was supported by the results of cervical and endometrial biopsies.
Citizen science and habitat modelling facilitates conservation planning for crabeater seals in the Weddell Sea
Authors: Wege Mia , Salas Leo , LaRue Michelle
Published: August 2020

Aim

Creating a network of marine protected areas in the Southern Ocean requires extensive knowledge on species’ abundances, distributions and population trends especially in the Weddell Sea where year‐round pack ice makes most of the Weddell Sea inaccessible. We combine satellite images and citizen science to model habitat suitability for crabeater seals (Lobodon carcinophaga) throughout the Weddell Sea.

Location

Weddell Sea, Antarctica.

Methods

High‐resolution satellite images covering 18,219 km2 of the Weddell Sea during crabeater seal breeding season (October—November) were hosted on the crowd‐sourcing platform Tomnod (DigitalGlobe). Citizen scientists marked “maps” where seals were present/absent and these votes were compared with the votes of an experienced observer. Correction factors were used to correct votes to either a continuous probability of seal presence, or a binary seal presence/absence value. We modelled probability of seal presence using ensemble models of Random Forests (RF), Boosted Regression Trees (BRT) and Support Vector Machines (SVM), and used fitted Maxent models to model seal presence/absence data.

Results

Model predictive power was low (RF: R2 = 0.076 ± 0.002: BRT: R2 = 0.086 ± 0.0008; SVM: R2 = 0.082 ± 0.003) to average (Maxent: AUC = 0.71 ± 0.004). Distance to the ice edge and bathymetry were the most important variables that influenced crabeater seal distribution.

Main conclusions

Crabeater seals were more likely to be present over abyssal water, which coincides with typical adult Antarctic krill habitat — crabeater seal preferred prey. Where ice concentrations were more variable, that is more accessible, crabeater seals were also more likely to occur. Results agreed with the known ecology of crabeaters seals and the abundance, distribution and ecology of Antarctic krill. We were able to survey the largest area ever surveyed in the Weddell Sea and provide a model to assist furthering policy around the proposed protected area.
The role of the corpus callosum in language network connectivity in children
Authors: Bartha‐Doering Lisa , Kollndorfer Kathrin , Schwartz Ernst , Fischmeister Florian Ph.S. , Alexopoulos Johanna , Langs Georg , Prayer Daniela , Kasprian Gregor , Seidl Rainer
Published: August 2020

The specific role of the corpus callosum (CC) in language network organization remains unclear, two contrasting models have been proposed: inhibition of homotopic areas allowing for independent functioning of the hemispheres versus integration of information from both hemispheres. This study aimed to add to this discussion with the first investigation of language network connectivity in combination with CC volume measures. In 38 healthy children aged 6–12, we performed task‐based functional magnetic resonance imaging to measure language network connectivity, used structural magnetic resonance imaging to quantify CC subsection volumes, and administered various language tests to examine language abilities. We found an increase in left intrahemispheric and bilateral language network connectivity and a decrease in right intrahemispheric connectivity associated with larger volumes of the posterior, mid‐posterior, and central subsections of the CC. Consistent with that, larger volumes of the posterior parts of the CC were significantly associated with better verbal fluency and vocabulary, the anterior CC volume was positively correlated with verbal span. Thus, children with larger volumes of CC subsections showed increased interhemispheric language network connectivity and were better in different language domains. This study presents the first evidence that the CC is directly linked to language network connectivity and underlines the excitatory role of the CC in the integration of information from both hemispheres.
Correlates of self‐rated health in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a longitudinal study
Authors: Hoogendoorn C. J. , Gonzalez J. S. , Schechter C. B. , Flattau A. , Reeves N. D. , Boulton A. J. M. , Vileikyte L.
Published: August 2020

Aim

Self‐rated health, a measure of self‐reported general health, is a robust predictor of morbidity and mortality in various populations, including persons with diabetes. This study examines correlates of self‐rated health in adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

Methods

Participants recruited from the UK and USA (n = 295; mean (± sd) age: 61.5 ± 10.7 years; 69% male; 71% type 2 diabetes) rated their health at baseline and 18 months. DPN severity was assessed using the neuropathy disability score and the vibration perception threshold. Validated self‐report measures assessed neuroticism, DPN‐symptoms of pain, unsteadiness and reduced sensation in feet, DPN‐related limitations in daily activities, DPN‐specific emotional distress and symptoms of depression.

Results

In the fully adjusted baseline model, younger age, presence of cardiovascular disease and higher depression symptom scores showed likely clinically meaningful independent associations with worse health ratings. Being at the UK study site and presence of nephropathy indicated potentially meaningful independent associations with lower baseline health ratings. These predictors were largely consistent in their association with health ratings at 18 months.

Conclusion

Results identify independent correlates of health ratings among adults with DPN. Future research should investigate the clinical implications of associations and examine changes in these variables over time and potential effects on changes in health perceptions. If these associations reflect causal pathways, our results may guide interventions to target issues that are likely to have an impact on subjectively experienced health as an important patient‐reported outcome in DPN care.
Longitudinal changes in echocardiographic measures of ventricular function after Fontan operation
Authors: Campbell Matthew J. , Quartermain Michael D. , Cohen Meryl S. , Faerber Jennifer , Okunowo Oluwatimelehin , Wang Yan , Capone Valerie , DiFrancesco Jenna , Mercer‐Rosa Laura , Goldberg David J.
Published: August 2020

Background

While numerous indices have been developed in an attempt to quantify ventricular function in patients with single ventricle heart disease after Fontan, there are little data on how these parameters change over time.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was performed of individuals who underwent Fontan operation at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) in 2006 and 2007. Measurements of fractional area change (FAC), tricuspid annular planar systolic excursion (TAPSE), myocardial performance index (MPI), systolic to diastolic (s/d) ratio, and myocardial strain and strain rate were made offline. A composite outcome of protein‐losing enteropathy (PLE), plastic bronchitis, transplant, or death was created, and change in function was compared between those who did and those who did not meet the outcome.

Results

There were 312 echocardiograms from 40 unique patients (75% male, 55% dominant right ventricle). The aggregate mean values for most assessed parameters were worse than what would be expected for a healthy age‐matched population. The global longitudinal strain rate increased (worsened) by 0.014 (1/s) per year (P = .02), and the global circumferential strain rate increased (worsened) by 0.011 (1/s) per year (P = .01). There was no difference in the rate of change of ventricular function in the 6 patients who met the composite endpoint vs those who did not.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that global longitudinal strain rate and global circumferential strain rate decrease over 10 years following Fontan operation. These measures of ventricular performance may be early signs of cardiac dysfunction that predate more obvious echocardiographic signs of deterioration.
Comprehensive analyses of maxillofacial fractures due to non‐professional sports activities in Italy
Authors: Bojino Alessandro , Roccia Fabio , Giaccone Elena , Cocis Stefan
Published: August 2020

Background/Aim

Sports activities have become increasingly popular among amateurs and this has led to an increase in maxillofacial fractures. The aim of this study was to investigate the management of amateur sport‐related maxillofacial fractures and appropriate preventive measures.

Methods

A trauma database was used to analyze 3231 patients with maxillofacial fractures admitted to the Maxillofacial Surgery Division of Città della Salute e della Scienza Hospital, Turin, Italy, from January 2001 to December 2019. Only patients with non‐professional sports‐related maxillofacial fractures were included. The following data were collected: age, gender, type of sport, mechanisms of injury, sites of fracture, Facial Injury Severity Scale, associated injuries, month of trauma, time to treatment, treatment, length of stay, and interval before return to sport.

Results

There were 432 patients, 378 males and 54 females, with a mean age of 29.2 (5‐76 years). Sport‐related maxillofacial fractures’ relative percent ranged from 11.1% in 2001 to 17.5% in 2019. Soccer was the most common cause of sport‐related maxillofacial fractures (54.2%), and impact with a player/opponent was the main mechanism of injury (72%). An intentional violent act (player hit by a fist) was the cause of fracture in 8.5% of the soccer‐related injuries. Fractures of the middle third of the face occurred in 61.2% of patients. Maxillofacial fractures were treated within 24 h in 25% of patients. There were 343 out of 412 patients who received open reduction and internal fixation (mean length of hospital stay: 3.7 days). There was no contraindication to resuming sport activities at 30/40 days after treatment, except for combat sports.

Conclusions

This study provided further evidence of a relative increase in sports‐related maxillofacial fractures. Soccer is related to the majority of sport maxillofacial fractures. Adherence to the rules is necessary to limit violent acts that cause such injuries. In non‐professional players, resumption of the full activity is allowed after 40 days for non‐combat sports.
The European Association for Sports Dentistry, Academy for Sports Dentistry, European College of Sports and Exercise Physicians consensus statement on sports dentistry integration in sports medicine
Authors: Stamos Athanasios , Mills Steve , Malliaropoulos Nikos , Cantamessa Sophie , Dartevelle Jean‐Luc , Gündüz Elif , Laubmeier Jeffrey , Hoy Jeffrey , Kakavas Georgios , Le Garrec Sébastien , Kaux Jean‐François , Ghrairi Mourad , Lohrer Heinz , Engels‐Deutsch Marc
Published: August 2020

Sports medicine has a multidisciplinary character which allows different medical specialties to investigate the prevention, etiology, and treatment of athletes’ diseases. This leads to a decreased risk of injury and a faster return to play as well as an improvement in the overall health and well‐being of athletes of any level and in all sports around the world. The oral health of athletes is now the subject of great attention internationally because of the increased prevalence and incidence of health issues such as dental caries and erosion, periodontal disease, defective occlusion, temporomandibular joint disorders, and orofacial injuries. Scientific evidence and research on these issues have also intensified over recent years. The best way to maintain player's health and performance is to include oral health in sports medicine with physicians and dentists working closely together at the individual level as well as with the cooperation between local and international sports medicine and dentistry associations. The European Association for Sports Dentistry, the Academy for Sports Dentistry, and the European College of Sports and Exercise Physicians are leading the way and have worked together to develop a consensus statement describing the main pillars of oral health integration into sports medicine based on the most common oral diseases found in athletes and linked to exercise, sports, and performance.
Forage quality of species‐rich mountain grasslands subjected to zero, PK and NPK mineral fertilization for decades
Authors: Ineichen Simon , Marquardt Svenja , Kreuzer Michael , Reidy Beat
Published: August 2020

To maintain species‐rich swards from which forage of a high nutritional quality can be produced, it is essential to adapt grassland fertilization strategies. In this study, we investigated how different long‐term mineral fertilization treatments affect dry‐matter (DM) yield, plant species composition, and nutrient and mineral concentrations of forage from mountain grasslands. During 2 years, forage was sampled from three different long‐term fertilization experiments located at 930 (L), 1,190 (M) and 1,340 (H) m a.s.l. at different sites in Switzerland. At each site, three mineral fertilization treatments (0, PK and NPK) had been maintained for three to six decades, with two (L and M) or three harvests (H) per year. Yield, the botanical composition and concentrations of net energy, utilizable crude protein and different phenolic fractions were determined. Nutrient and mineral concentrations were also determined. For all three sites (L, M and H), unfertilized swards had lower annual DM yields (3.39, 5.17 and 2.73 t/ha) compared to PK (6.33, 7.17 and 4.44 t/ha) and NPK fertilized swards (7.69, 7.22 and 7.44 t/ha), respectively. Long‐term fertilization had little effect on the gross nutrient and phenolic composition, but forage P and K concentration increased. The decades‐long fertilization of either PK or NPK of up to 85 kg N, 80 kg P2O5 and 240 kg K2O/ha reduced plant species richness only at site H. Fertilization of PK may allow to simultaneously increase forage productivity and maintain forage quality in mountain grasslands.
Frequency and Type of Red Flags in Patients With Covid‐19 and Headache: A Series of 104 Hospitalized Patients
Authors: García‐Azorín David , Trigo Javier , Talavera Blanca , Martínez‐Pías Enrique , Sierra Álvaro , Porta‐Etessam Jesús , Arenillas Juan F. , Guerrero Ángel L.
Published: August 2020

Objective

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the frequency of the main red flags in patients with headache who do have Covid‐19.

Background

Headache is one of the most frequent neurologic symptoms of Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19). Diagnosis of secondary headache disorders is still based on the presence of red flags.

Design and Methods

Cross‐sectional study of hospitalized patients with confirmed Covid‐19 disease. We interrogated every patient about the presence of headache and if so, a headache expert conducted a structured interview assessing the presence and type of the main red flags. We evaluated the presence of laboratory abnormalities on admission.

Results

We screened 576 consecutive patients, 130/576 (22.6%) described headache, and 104 were included in the study. Mean age of patients was 56.7 (standard deviation: 11.2) and 66/104 (63.4%) were female. Red flags concerning prior medical history were present in 79/104 (76.0%) cases, and those related to the headache itself were observed in 99/104 (95.2%) patients. All patients 104/104 (100%) described systemic symptoms and 86/104 (82.7%) some neurologic symptoms. Laboratory results were abnormal in 98/104 (94.2%) cases. The most frequent red flags were fever, in 93/104 (89.4%) patients, cough, in 89/104 (85.6% cases), and increased C‐reactive protein in 84/100 (84.0%) cases.

Conclusion

In patients with Covid‐19 that described the headache red flags were present in most cases. There was not any universal red flag, being necessary the comprehensive evaluation of all of them.
Case Series of Headache Characteristics in COVID‐19: Headache Can Be an Isolated Symptom
Authors: Toptan Tuğçe , Aktan Çile , Başarı Ahmet , Bolay Hayrunnisa
Published: August 2020

Headache was reported in up to one‐third of the hospitalized patients; yet, the clinical characteristics of headache associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) have not been defined. This observational case study included patients who were consulted to headache unit due to headache and had COVID‐19 illness. Headache features in 13 PCR‐confirmed COVID‐19 patients with mild symptoms were reported. Headache was the isolated symptom of the COVID‐19 in 3 patients and emerged as an early symptom during the disease course in all patients. Patients specified severe, rapid onset, unrelenting headache with migraine‐like features, as well as unusual sensory symptoms such as anosmia, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and loss of appetite and weight. Headache lasted up to 3 days in 70% of the patients and resolved in all patients within 2 weeks. Despite the fact that most of the patients were female and headache characteristics were suggestive of migraine, majority of patients were not suffering from primary headaches. It was concluded that headache could be an isolated symptom of COVID‐19, which might possibly be ignored in asymptomatic patients. Headaches associated with COVID‐19 included features resembling migraine and/or atypical symptoms including anosmia and diarrhea.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy applications for high‐throughput phenotyping for cassava and yam: A review
Authors: Alamu Emmanuel Oladeji , Nuwamanya Ephraim , Cornet Denis , Meghar Karima , Adesokan Michael , Tran Thierry , Belalcazar John , Desfontaines Lucienne , Davrieux Fabrice
Published: August 2020

The review aimed to identify the different high‐throughput phenotyping (HTP) techniques that used for quality evaluation in cassava and yam breeding programmes, and this has provided insights towards the development of metrics and their application in cassava and yam improvements. A systematic review of the published research articles involved the use of NIRS in analysing the quality traits of cassava and yam was carried out, and Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Sciences and Google Scholar were searched. The results of the review established that NIRS could be used in understanding the chemical constituents (carbohydrate, protein, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, moisture, starch, etc.) for high‐throughput phenotyping. This study provides preliminary evidence of the application of NIRS as an efficient and affordable procedure for HTP. However, the feasibility of using mid‐infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) and hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in combination with the NIRS could be further studied for quality traits phenotyping.
Influences of freeze‐ and spray‐drying vs. encapsulation with soy and whey proteins on gastrointestinal stability and antioxidant activity of Mediterranean aromatic herbs
Authors: Bilušić Tea , Drvenica Ivana , Kalušević Ana , Marijanović Zvonimir , Jerković Igor , Mužek Mario Nikola , Bratanić Andre , Skroza Danijela , Zorić Zoran , Pedisić Sandra , Nedović Viktor , Režek Jambrak Anet
Published: August 2020

The aim of the present research was to study the chemical profile of volatile and non‐volatile compounds in freeze‐ and spray‐dried oregano, thyme, sage, and rosemary as well as to study the gastrointestinal stability and the biological activity of the samples after encapsulation using two proteins (soy and whey). Chemical analysis was performed by HS‐SPME/GC‐MS and HPLC‐PDA techniques. The antioxidant activity (FRAP, DPPH and ORAC assays) and HPLC‐PDA analyses were performed before and after simulated two‐phase digestion process (gastric and duodenal) using human gastrointestinal enzymes. The effect of protein carriers was depended on the plant matrix and the class of compound. Soy protein is useful for the protection of thymol and carvacrol content in thyme and the increase of the antioxidant activity of sage. Whey protein is useful for flavanols stability in all studied herbs before and after the duodenal digestive phase.
Ferritin levels in patients with COVID‐19: A poor predictor of mortality and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Feld Jonathan , Tremblay Douglas , Thibaud Santiago , Kessler Alaina , Naymagon Leonard
Published: August 2020

Introduction

A hyperinflammatory environment has been a hallmark of COVID‐19 infection and is thought to be a key mediator of morbidity. Elevated ferritin has been observed in many patients with COVID‐19. Several retrospective studies have shown ferritin levels can be correlated and predictive of poor outcomes in COVID‐19, though a rigorous analysis has been lacking.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 942 adult COVID‐19 patients admitted in March 2020 at a large New York City health system with available ferritin levels.

Results

The primary outcome, all‐cause mortality, was observed in 265 (28.1%) patients. Patients who died had a significantly higher median admission and maximum ferritin levels than those who did not. However, death was poorly predicted by admission and maximum ferritin levels on receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis, with AUCs of 0.677 and 0.638, respectively. AUCs increased when the cohort was limited to progressively younger patients. Ferritin levels were minimally better at predicting our secondary outcomes. These included mechanical ventilation, observed in 280 (29.7%) patients with an ROC yielding an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.769, and new renal replacement therapy, observed in 80 (8.5%) of patients with an ROC yielding an AUC of 0.787. We also performed a subset analysis on 22 patients with ferritins >20 000 ng/mL. None of the patients met HLH‐2004 diagnostic criteria. Fifteen (68.2%) of these patients had suspected or confirmed bacterial infections.

Conclusions

Though many patients with COVID‐19 present with hyperferritinemia, elevated ferritin levels are not accurate predictors of outcomes and do not appear to be indicative of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.
Associations of sleep with gray matter volume and their implications for academic achievement, executive function and intelligence in children with overweight/obesity
Authors: Migueles Jairo H. , Cadenas‐Sanchez Cristina , Esteban‐Cornejo Irene , Mora‐Gonzalez Jose , Rodriguez‐Ayllon Maria , Solis‐Urra Patricio , Erickson Kirk I. , Kramer Arthur F. , Hillman Charles H. , Catena Andres , Ortega Francisco B.
Published: August 2020

Background

Children with overweight/obesity have poorer sleep and smaller gray matter volume (GMV) than normal‐weight children. No studies have investigated the associations of objectively‐assessed sleep and GMV in children with overweight/obesity, or their implications for academic and cognitive outcomes.

Objectives

To explore the associations of sleep behaviors with GMV in the whole brain and particularly the hippocampus as a region of interest independent of sedentary time (SED) and physical activity; and to assess whether GMV in the associated regions was related to academic achievement, executive function and intelligence quotient (IQ).

Methods

Ninety‐six children with overweight/obesity (10 ± 1 year) were included. Sleep behaviors were assessed with accelerometers. GMV was acquired by magnetic resonance imaging. Academic achievement, executive function and IQ were assessed with separate tests. Analyses were adjusted for sex, peak height velocity and parent education as well as SED and physical activity.

Results

Earlier wake time, less time in bed, wakening after sleep onset (WASO) and WASO occurrences were associated with higher GMV in eight cortical brain regions (k:56‐448, P's < .001). Longer total sleep time, higher sleep efficiency and less WASO time were associated with higher GMV in the right hippocampus (β:0.187‐0.220, P's < .05). The inferior temporal, fusiform, supramarginal, and postcentral gyri, the superior parietal cortex, precuneus and hippocampus associated with academic achievement and/or IQ. Associations remained after adjustments for SED and physical activity.

Conclusions

Sleep behaviors are associated with GMV in multiple cortical regions including the right hippocampus in children with overweight/obesity, which in turn, were associated with academic achievement and IQ.
How the risk of failure in lifetime of tempered glass depends on the size of NiS inclusions and heat soak test duration
Authors: Pisano Gabriele , Bonati Antonio , Royer Carfagni Gianni
Published: August 2020

The probability of breakage in service lifetime of heat‐tempered glass panes contaminated by nickel sulfide inclusions is estimated with a multiscale micromechanically motivated statistical theory, which considers the effects of the heat soak test (HST). Short and long HSTs differently affect the phase transformation of NiS of diverse chemical composition, whose increase in volume can break the glass. The main hypothesis, corroborated by experiments, is that there is a lower limit for the size of NiS stones below which no crack can be initiated from the volumetric expansion. The catastrophic propagation of nucleated fractures in the long term is modeled through a rescaled critical stress intensity factor, which accounts for the subcritical crack propagation and the slow phase transformation of NiS. A parametric analysis evidences how the failure probability is strongly affected by these parameters, depending on the holding time in the HST. Tailored experimental activity is suggested for the proper calibration of the model.
Intervention effects on professionals’ attitudes towards the participation of adults with visual and severe or profound intellectual disabilities
Authors: Hanzen Gineke , Waninge Aly , van Nispen Ruth M. A. , Vlaskamp Carla , Post Wendy J. , van der Putten Annette A. J.
Published: August 2020

Background

We investigated the effects of the “Care for Participation+” (CFP+) intervention on direct support professionals’ (DSPs’) attitudes regarding the participation of adults with visual and severe or profound intellectual disabilities (VSPID).

Methods

We implemented a pilot non‐randomized controlled trial with two control groups to compare DSPs’ attitudes towards CFP+ using the Attitudes towards Participation Questionnaire (APQ) and DSPs’ written profiles of adults with VSPID.

Results

CPP+ and the Participation Mind Map control group showed a positive trend for the “leisure/recreation,” “social relations,” and “ability to act” APQ domains compared to the usual care control group. The CFP+ group described significantly fewer disabilities at 6 months, reflecting a more positive attitude than controls.

Conclusion

CFP+ had positive effects on DSPs’ attitudes towards the participation of adults with VSPID. The small sample size, ceiling effects, measurement instruments used, and implementation difficulties may have hampered understanding the full potential of CFP+.