bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IRF1 Is Required for MDA5 (IFIH1) Induction by IFN-α, LPS, and poly(I:C) in Murine Macrophages
Authors: Aparici-Herraiz Iris , Sánchez-Sánchez Guillem , Batlle Carlos , Rehues Pere , López-Serrat Martí , Valverde-Estrella Lorena , Lloberas Jorge , Celada Antonio
Published: November 2022

Melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5) induces type I interferons (IFNs) after the recognition of viral RNA. In addition, gain-of-function mutations in the interferon induced with helicase C domain 1 (IFIH1) gene, which encodes MDA5, lead to type I interferonopathies. Here, we show that Mda5 is highly expressed in murine macrophages and is regulated by pro-inflammatory stimuli such as the cytokines IFN-α and IFN-γ, the TLR ligand LPS, and a mimic of dsRNA, poly(I:C). Mda5 induction is mediated through the production of reactive oxygen species. The induction by IFN-α or LPS occurs at the transcriptional level since the Mda5 mRNA half-life before and after induction is very stable. Interestingly, STAT1 is required for Mda5 induction by IFN-α, LPS, or poly(I:C). The time course of induction of at least 3 h and the need for protein synthesis indicate that Mda5 requires an intermediate protein for transcription. In transient transfection experiments, we found that a 105-bp fragment of this gene, between −1153 and −1258 bp relative to the transcription start site, is required for transcription. In this specific region, we observed a sequence containing an IRF-binding motif, which, when mutated, abolishes the induction of Mda5. This sequence is strongly conserved in the IFIH1 promoters of eutherian mammals and in other distant species. Kinetic experiments, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, and gene-silencing experiments revealed that IRF1 is required for induction of Mda5 expression.
Hybrid Laparo-Endoscopic Resection of Submucosal Cardial Tumors Assisted by Flexible Articulated Instruments
Authors: Llanos Federico , Turchi Matias , Ramirez Mauricio , Badaloni Franco , Nachman Fabio , Nieponice Alejandro
Published: November 2022

We report a new surgical method in 10 patients who underwent hybrid laparo-endoscopic resection (HLER) of submucosal tumors with the combination of flexible articulated laparoscopic instruments (FALI). We have assessed technical reproducibility, safety, and morbidity. Resection was completed in all cases. Mean surgical time was 60 min (30–85). Median tumor size was 16 mm (12–30). The more frequent location was the gastroesophageal junction. No complications were observed during the procedure. Length of stay was 1 day in all cases. We have found HLER to be a safe procedure allowing margin resection and organ preservation. The addition of FALI added ease of performance in hard-to-reach tumor locations.
Regulation of FOXO3 on neuronal ferroptosis after intracerebral hemorrhage via modulating NOX4 transcription
Authors: Qin Zhongzong , Zhu Gang , Luo Honghai , Deng Yifan
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is known to trigger neuronal ferroptosis while forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) is implicated in ICH. This study aimed to determine the specific effect of FOXO3 on neuronal ferroptosis after ICH.
Methods: The ICH mouse model was established through the injection of bacterial collagenase type IV and the cell model was established in Hemin-induced HT-22 cells. Subsequently, neurological functions, brain water content, and histopathological changes in mice were assessed. HT-22 cell activity was examined via cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) method, and the levels of FOXO3, NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in brain tissues and HT-22 cells were measured. Fe2+ concentration and the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) in the tissues and cells were examined. The binding relationship between FOXO3 and the NOX4 promoter region was determined via chromatin-immunoprecipitation (Ch-IP). Rescue experiments were designed to probe the role of NOX4 in the regulation of FOXO3 on neuronal ferroptosis.
Results: FOXO3 was highly-expressed in ICH models while silencing FOXO3 alleviated brain damage, edema, and inflammatory infiltration in ICH mice. Meanwhile, silencing FOXO3 enhanced cell activity, diminished ROS and MDA activities and Fe2+ concentration, and elevated GSH and GPX4 levels in the tissues or cells. FOXO3 could bind to the NOX4 promoter and upregulate NOX4 transcription. NOX4 overexpression partially neutralized the repressive role of silencing FOXO3 in neuronal ferroptosis.
Conclusion: Silencing FOXO3 attenuated ICH-induced neuronal ferroptosis via down-regulating NOX4 transcription levels, thus ameliorating post-ICH brain damage.
COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdowns’ Impact on Visual Acuity of Diabetic Macular Edema: A Large Cohort
Authors: Gomel Nir , Shor Reut , Lippin Naama , Segal Ori , Greenbaum Eran , Schwartz Shulamit , Trivizki Omer , Loewenstein Anat , Rabina Gilad
Published: November 2022

Introduction: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of unplanned treatment gap, secondary to COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, on visual acuity in previously treated diabetic macular edema (DME) patients. Methods: A multicenter, retrospective study of DME patients, previously treated with anti-VEGF injections, who were followed up during COVID-19 pandemic (2020) compared to pre-CO­VID-19 period (2019). Results: A total of 634 DME patients with a mean age of 68.4 years met the inclusion criteria, 385 were assessed in 2019 (pre-COVID-19) and 239 patients assessed in 2020 (COVID-19). Baseline best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) among patients in 2019 and 2020 was 0.52 ± 0.44, 0.45 ± 0.43 (logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution, respectively). There was no significant difference between the years 2020 and 2019 in baseline BCVA (p = 0.07). Mean number of anti-VEGF injections was significantly lower (5 vs. 6, p < 0.01), with a major lower ratio of injections per patient in the COVID-19 first lockdown period (March–June 2020) in the COVID-19 group. Baseline BCVA (p < 0.01) was the only significant predictor of final BCVA. Number of injections, age, gender, and the year were not found as predictors of final BCVA. Conclusions: In a large cohort of DME patients, an unplanned delay in treatment with anti-VEGF injections for 2–3 months, due to COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, had no significance impact on visual acuity. For most patients, returning to routine treatment regimen was sufficient for maintaining BCVA.
Medical Cannabinoids as Treatment for Hypophosphatasia-Related Symptoms
Authors: Fischer Jan Moritz , Jeitler Michael , Blakeslee Sarah Beverly , Kessler Christian
Published: November 2022

Background: Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare congenital disease caused by a mutation affecting tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme involved in phosphate metabolism. The clinical manifestation usually includes bone mineralization disorders, neurological symptoms, and persistent muscle pain. Case Report: This case involves a woman in her sixties of Central European descent who suffers from lifelong chronic pain and muscle weakness due to HPP and concomitant degenerative changes of the lumbar spine. The patient is physically impaired and limited in her ability to walk as a result. HPP-specific and guideline-based multimodal pain management including enzyme replacement therapy with asfotase alfa, opioids, invasive orthopedic and neurosurgical procedures, long-term physiotherapy, and psychotherapy did not yield sufficient treatment results. The average pain was given as 8.5 on a numerical rating scale (NRS, 0–10) for the last 3 years. Treatment with a cannabidiol-predominant, full-spectrum, prescription cannabis extract led to a clinically meaningful pain reduction to 2.5/10 NRS, a discontinuation of opioids, and a recent resumption of employment as a physician. Conclusion: A more widespread consideration of medical cannabinoids in the treatment of complex chronic pain is proposed. Cannabinoids may pose a particularly potent treatment option for HPP-related symptoms and inflammation due to their known anti-inflammatory properties.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Success of Bariatric Surgeries in Patients with Severe Obesity
Authors: Haghighat Neda , Foroutan Hamidreza , Hesameddini Iman , Amini Masoud , Hosseini Babak , Moeinvaziri Nader , Hosseini Seyed Vahid , Kamran Hooman
Published: November 2022

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) pandemic may influence the weight outcomes of bariatric surgeries (BS). Here, we intended to compare the weight outcome of patients who underwent BS before and during the pandemic time. Methods: In a retrospective, single-center study, the information of two groups of patients; first COVID-19 group (n = 51) consisted of those that underwent BS during the pandemic and completed a year of follow-up, second non-COVID-19 group included 50 patients who underwent BS and were followed up before the pandemic. All the patients’ anthropometric and obesity-related disease data were compared between groups. Results: Weight loss and the decrease of body mass index 1 year after the surgery, as well as excess weight loss and total weight loss, were significantly higher in the non-COVID-19 group compared to the COVID-19 group (p < 0.05). Although the rate of remission for diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia was higher in the non-COVID-19 group, the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: We showed a significantly poorer weight outcome at the 1-year follow-up of the BS during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic. These results need further investigations to determine the preventive measures and management by evaluating the associated factors.
Stepwise Approach for Acquisition of Microsurgical Skills through Rat Orthotopic Liver Transplantation Experiments
Authors: Hirata Masaaki , Yagi Shintaro , Ito Takashi , Masano Yuki , Okumura Shinya , Yao Siyuan , Miyachi Yosuke , Aoki Hikaru , Katano Kaoru , Hatano Etsuro
Published: November 2022

Although rat liver transplantation (LT) is useful in training surgeons to perform microsurgery, mastering these surgical techniques remains difficult. Systematized training protocols that enable learning of the proper skills in a short period of time are needed. The present study describes an efficient five-step rat LT training protocol for surgeons designed to be mastered within 3 months through continuous training. The first step was to review all procedures by watching full videos of rat LT and to watch actual LT operations performed by a skilled surgeon, enabling recognition of the anatomy of rat abdominal organs. The second step was to perform ten donor operations, including ex vivo graft preparation, to learn the atraumatic and delicate techniques. The third step was to perform ten LTs, with the goal of achieving an anhepatic time <20 min and surviving until the next day. The fourth step was to perform ten additional LTs, with the goal of achieving 7 days of survival. The fifth step was to perform 5–10 more LTs, with the goal of achieving 7 days of survival in five consecutive LT operations. Systematizing the training was found to increase its efficiency. Furthermore, determining the specific number of operations in advance is useful to maintain motivation for training. Mastering efficient rat LT will not only enhance the success of preclinical research but will enable young surgeons to better perform vascular anastomoses under a microscope in humans.
Neighborhood Socioeconomic Disadvantage and Hospitalized Heart Failure Outcomes in the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines-Heart Failure Registry
Authors: Rao Vishal N. , Mentz Robert J. , Coniglio Amanda C. , Kelsey Michelle D. , Fudim Marat , Fonarow Gregg C. , Matsouaka Roland A. , DeVore Adam D. , Caughey Melissa C.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with worse health outcomes, yet its relationship with in-hospital heart failure (HF) outcomes and quality metrics are underexplored. We examined the association between socioeconomic neighborhood disadvantage and in-hospital HF outcomes for patients from diverse neighborhoods in the Get With The Guidelines-Heart Failure registry.

Methods:

SES-disadvantage scores were derived from geocoded US census data using a validated algorithm, which incorporated household income, home value, rent, education, and employment. We examined the association between SES-disadvantage quintiles with all-cause in-hospital mortality, adjusting for demographics and comorbidities.

Results:

Of 593 053 patients hospitalized for HF between 2017 and 2020, 321 314 (54%) had residential ZIP Codes recorded. Patients from the most compared with least disadvantaged neighborhoods were younger (mean age 67 versus 76 years), more often Black (42% versus 9%) or Hispanic (14% versus 5%), and had higher comorbidity burden. Demographic-adjusted length of stay increased by ≈1.5 hours with each increment in worsening SES-disadvantage quintiles. Adjusted-mortality odds ratios increased with worsening SES-disadvantage quintiles (
P
trend
=0.003), and was 28% higher (adjusted OR=1.28 [1.12–1.48]) for the most compared with least disadvantaged neighborhood groups.

Conclusions:

Patients hospitalized for HF from disadvantaged neighborhoods were younger and more often Black or Hispanic. SES disadvantage was independently associated with higher in-hospital mortality. Further research is needed to characterize care delivery patterns in disadvantaged neighborhoods and to address social determinants of health among patients hospitalized for HF.

REGISTRATION:
URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02693509.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Intraplaque Hemorrhage and Plaque Lipid Content With Continued Lipid-Lowering Therapy: Results of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Substudy in AIM-HIGH
Authors: Zhao Xue-Qiao , Sun Jie , Hippe Daniel S. , Isquith Daniel A. , Canton Gador , Yamada Kiyofumi , Balu Niranjan , Crouse John R. , Anderson Todd J. , Huston John , O’Brien Kevin D. , Hatsukami Thomas S. , Yuan Chun ,   for the AIM-HIGH Carotid MRI Substudy Investigators
Published: November 2022

Background:

Intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) is associated with plaque progression and ischemic events, and plaque lipid content (% lipid core) predicts the residual atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk. This study examined the impact of IPH on lipid content change in the setting of intensive lipid-lowering therapy.

Methods:

In total, 214 AIM-HIGH (Atherothrombosis Intervention in Metabolic Syndrome with Low High-Density Lipoprotein/High Triglycerides: Impact on Global Health Outcomes) participants with clinically established ASCVD and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol received cartoid MRI at baseline and 2 years to assess changes in carotid morphology and composition. Patients were randomized to extended-release niacin or placebo, and all received simvastatin with optional ezetimibe as necessary to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol to 40 to 80 mg/dL. Changes in lipid content and carotid morphology were tested using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Differences between subjects with and without IPH and between subjects assigned extended-release niacin or placebo were tested using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Linear regression was used to test the association of IPH and lipid content changes after adjusting for clinical risk factors.

Results:

Among 156 patients (61±9 years; 81% men) with complete MRI, prior statin use: <1 year, 26%; 1 to 5 years, 37%; >5 years, 37%. Triglycerides and ApoB decreased significantly, whereas high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and ApoA1 increased significantly over time. Plaque lipid content was significantly reduced (−0.5±2.4 %/year,
P
= 0.017) without a significant difference between the 2 treatment groups. However, the lipid content increased in plaques with IPH but regressed in plaques without IPH (1.2±2.5 %/year versus −1.0±2.2,
P
= 0.006). Additionally, IPH was associated with a decrease in lumen area (−0.4±0.9 mm2/year versus 0.3±1.4,
P
= 0.033). IPH remained significantly associated with increase in lipid content in multivariable analysis (54.4%, 95% CI: 26.8, 88.0,
P
< 0.001).

Conclusions:

Carotid plaques under continued intensive lipid-lowering therapy moved toward stabilization. However, plaques with IPH showed greater increases in lipid content and greater decreases in lumen area than plaques without IPH.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01178320.
Intra- and Postprocedural Multimodality Imaging in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Quintana Raymundo A. , Dong Tiffany , Vajapey Ramya , Reyaldeen Reza , Kwon Deborah H. , Harb Serge , Wang Tom Kai Ming , Klein Allan L.
Published: November 2022

Multi-modality imaging plays critical roles during and after procedures associated with atrial fibrillation. Transesophageal echocardiography is an invaluable tool for left atrial appendage occlusion during the procedure and at follow-up. Both cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance contribute to postprocedural evaluation of pulmonary vein isolation ablation. The present review is the second of a 2-part series where we discuss the roles of cardiac imaging in the evaluation and management of patients with atrial fibrillation, focusing on intraprocedural and postprocedural assessment, including the clinical evidence and outcomes data supporting this future applications.
Reduced Mortality With Antiplatelet Therapy Deescalation After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Acute Coronary Syndromes: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Palmerini Tullio , Bruno Antonio Giulio , Gasparini Mauro , Rizzello Giulia , Kim Hyo-Soo , Kang Jeehoon , Park Kyung-Woo , Hahn Joo-Yong , Song Young Bin , Gwon Hyeon-Cheol , Choo Eun Ho , Park Mahn-Won , Kim Chan Joon , Chang Kiyuk , Cuisset Thomas , Taglieri Nevio , Kim Byeong-Keuk , Jang Yangsoo , Nardi Elena , Saia Francesco , Orzalkiewicz Matheusz , Chietera Francesco , Ghetti Gabriele , Galiè Nazzareno , Stone Gregg W.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Antiplatelet therapy deescalation has been suggested as an alternative to standard treatment with potent dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) for 1 year in low bleeding risk patients with acute coronary syndromes undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention to mitigate the increased risk of bleeding. Whether this strategy preserves the ischemic and survival benefits of potent DAPT is uncertain.

Methods:

We performed a pairwise meta-analysis in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention treated with either 1-year standard potent DAPT versus deescalation therapy (potent DAPT for 1–3 months followed by either reduced potency DAPT or ticagrelor monotherapy for up to 1 year). Randomized trials comparing standard DAPT versus deescalation therapy in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention were searched through MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane databases, and proceedings of international meetings. The primary end point was 1-year all-cause mortality.

Results:

The meta-analysis included 6 trials in which 20 837 patients were randomized to potent DAPT for 1 to 3 months followed by deescalation therapy for up to 1 year (n=10 392) or standard potent DAPT for 1 year (n=10 445). Deescalation therapy was associated with lower 1-year rates of all-cause mortality compared with standard therapy (odds ratio, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.59–0.95];
P
=0.02). Deescalation therapy was also associated with lower rates of major bleeding (odds ratio, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.48–0.72];
P
<0.0001), with no significant difference in major adverse cardiac events (major adverse cardiovascular events; odds ratio, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.77–1.04];
P
=0.14).

Conclusions:

In low bleeding risk patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, compared with 1-year of potent DAPT, antiplatelet therapy deescalation therapy after 1 to 3 months was associated with decreased mortality and major bleeding with similar rates of major adverse cardiovascular events.
Contributions of Structural Racism to the Food Environment: A Photovoice Study of Black Residents With Hypertension in Baltimore, MD
Authors: Hines Anika L. , Brody Rebecca , Zhou Zehui , Collins Sarah V. , Omenyi Chiazam , Miller Edgar R. , Cooper Lisa A. , Crews Deidra C.
Published: November 2022

Background:

Disproportionate exposure to poor food environments and food insecurity among Black Americans may partially explain critical chronic disease disparities by race and ethnicity. A complex set of structural factors and interactions between Black residents and their food environments, including store types, quantity, proximity, and quality of goods and consumer interactions within stores, may affect nutritional behaviors and contribute to higher cardiovascular and kidney disease risk.

Methods:

We used the Photovoice methodology to explore the food environment in Baltimore, MD, through the perspectives of Black residents with hypertension between August and November 2019. Twenty-four participants were enrolled in the study (mean age: 65.1 years; 67% female). After a brief photography training, participants captured photos of their food environment, which they discussed in small focus groups over the course of 5 weeks. Discussions were audiotaped and analyzed for emergent themes using a line-by-line inductive approach. Themes were, then, organized into a collective narrative.

Results:

Findings describe physical and social features of the food environment as well as participants’ perceptions of its origins and holistic and generational health effects. The study illustrates the interrelationships among the broader socio-political environment, the quality and quantity of stores in the food landscape, and the ways in which they engage with the food environment as residents and consumers who have been marginalized due to their race and/or social class. The following meta-themes emerged from the data: (1) social injustice; (2) structural racism and classism; (3) interpersonal racism; (4) generational effects; (5) mistrust; (6) social programs; and (7) community asset-based approaches, including advocacy and civic engagement.

Conclusions:

Understanding residents’ perceptions of the foundations and effects of the food environment on their health may help stakeholders to cocreate multilevel interventions alongside residents to improve access to healthy food and health outcomes among disparities affected populations.
The Performance of Blessing as Imitation of Divine Beings
Authors: Bakker Arjen
Published: November 2022

This essay examines Qumran texts that not only perform blessing but also reflect on the activity of blessing itself, and thereby offer an opportunity to better understand the urge and necessity behind the growth of liturgical cycles that generate traditions of prayer. The paper looks at three texts, the hymns of the maśkîl, the Hymn to the Creator, and 4Q408, in which the performance of blessing is presented as acknowledgment of the creator through the lens of primordial time and the actualization of creation narratives. The essay argues that the way in which divine beings are imagined as perceiving and responding to the act of creation forms a model that liturgical performers emulate in order to approach as much as possible the holiness of these higher beings. This example demonstrates the interaction between interpretation and performance and their impact on the emergence and growth of textual traditions, both oral and written, in the Second Temple period.
When the Readers Break the Rules
Authors: van Putten Marijn
Published: November 2022

The Quranic text today is recited in ten canonical reading traditions with two distinct canonical transmissions each. These reading traditions are distinct in their phonological and morphological details, as well as the interpretation of the ambiguous consonantal text. However, they all have in common that they adhere to the consonantal skeleton of the standard Quran text. Despite this adherence, on rare occasions readers do deviate from this standard text. This paper examines those cases, and explores the reasons why the canonical readers felt licensed to do so. Especially ʾAbū ʿAmr was prone to deviate from the consonantal text in cases of perceived grammatical issues. Moreover, the readers occasionally deviated from their regional consonantal text when other regional codices had another form. Finally, readers deviated from the consonantal text, in cases where the text came in conflict with the pausal spelling principle.
Hymns and the Singing Community: The Formation of the Canaan Hymns in Contemporary Chinese Churches
Authors: Xu Songzan , Yang Xiaoli
Published: November 2022

This article studies the formation of the Canaan Hymns (Jianan shige 迦南诗歌) in relation to the history of the contemporary Chinese indigenous church. Over the last thirty years, Lü Xiaomin (吕小敏, 1970–) has composed more than two thousand hymns. They reflect not only her own personal life and evangelism, but also the growth of the Fangcheng Fellowship (方城团契) in Henan Province from a local home gathering to a national mission movement. Through textual studies, interviews, and archival research, this article examines how local congregants adopted Lü’s hymns, which are distinct from both western traditional hymns and Chinese rural spiritual songs (lingge 灵歌). These hymns represent a unique form of theological meaning-making within the indigenous church movement and serve as a pointer to the Chinese understanding of missio Dei as a whole.
Toward a Chinese Buddhist Modernism: Khenpo Sodargye and the Han Inundation of Larung Gar
Authors: Taylor (唐安竺) Andrew S.
Published: November 2022

Larung Gar is often hailed by scholars and practitioners alike as a last bastion of authentic Buddhist practice by ethnic Tibetans within the PRC. And yet, Larung is visited every year by tens of thousands of Han pilgrims and houses hundreds of Han monastics who have taken vows in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The author draws on a variety of oral and written sources to show that the Han inundation of Larung was not a byproduct of happenstance, but was actively facilitated by the Larung leadership, especially Khenpo Sodargye (མཁན་པོ་བསོད་དར་རྒྱས་ 索达吉堪布), through the targeted recruitment of Han practitioners. A comparative analysis of Tibetan- and Chinese-language materials shows that the neo-scientific and therapeutic teachings used to recruit Han practitioners superficially resemble similar “Buddhist modernist” discourses in the west and Tibet, but that their content is decidedly more soteriological than this moniker suggests. The article considers whether the encounter between Han practitioners and Tibetan Buddhism might eventually represent a nascent form of inter-ethnic Chinese Buddhist modernism.
A new species of Pleonexes Spence Bate, 1857 (Amphipoda: Senticaudata: Ampithoidae) from the São Pedro and São Paulo Archipelago, Equatorial Atlantic, Brazil, with comments on the genus
Authors: SOUZA-FILHO JESSER F. , ANDRADE LUIZ F.
Published: November 2022

A new species of Pleonexes from the São Pedro and São Paulo Archipelago, northeastern Brazil is described. Pleonexes lowryi sp. nov. is characterized by the slender mandible palp; the gnathopod 2 with large and rounded anterodistal lobe on the basis and strongly oblique palm; the pereopods 3–4 with slightly expanded basis; the uropod 1 peduncle with short and blunt spur; and the telson with subtriangular apex and small subdistal cusp on each side. In addition, based on the literature review, we provide new combinations of some species and a key to Pleonexes species in the world.
Multidecadal Fluctuations of SST and Euphotic Zone Temperature off Northwest Africa
Authors: Ibrahim Hamed D. , Sun Yunfang
Published: November 2022

The Atlantic multidecadal variability (AMV) switched from a cool to a warm phase in 1995 and the mean euphotic zone (EZT) and sea surface temperature (SST) shifted upward by 0.57° and 0.69°C, respectively, between 1982–91 and 2006–15 in the Atlantic region off northwest Africa. This ocean margin has many marine fisheries, and water temperature fluctuations may cause fish there to switch their habitats. Net radiation flux did not significantly change between these two decades. So, we hypothesized that the key driver of the EZT and SST increase is wind, which controls turbulent (sensible and latent) heat exchange with the atmosphere as well as bulk vertical and horizontal heat transport. Using satellite-derived SST and atmospheric and oceanic reanalyses to analyze the ocean top-200-m heat budget, we compared the relative contributions of the heat budget components to the cyclical changes in EZT and SST between these two decades. Results showed that the dominant heat source is horizontal heat flux convergence: weaker northeasterly trades and stronger southerly winds and monsoon enabled the southerly winds to drive warm water northward that subsequently warmed the domain. The dominant heat sink is latent heat loss: onshore–offshore atmospheric pressure gradients caused a complex wind adjustment that enabled the Sahara wind to accelerate evaporation over large subregions. These results highlight the important roles of ocean heat transport and atmosphere–ocean coupling for the tropical branch of the AMV. The regional EZT and SST anomalies associated with this AMV phase switch are mainly a consequence of wind-driven processes occurring at larger spatial scales.
Anterior and Lateral Skull Base Spontaneous CSF Leaks: Evaluation of Comorbidities and Treatment Outcomes
Authors: Hentati Firas , Kocharyan Armine , Ruthberg Jeremy , Trudeau Stephen , Jella Tarun , Patil Nirav , Cabrera Claudia I. , Mowry Sarah E.
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

To evaluate clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients diagnosed with anterior (ASB) or lateral skull base (LSB) spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (sCSF) leak.

Methods:

Single center retrospective review of patients diagnosed with sCSF leaks of ASB or LSB between 1/1/2009 and 11/1/2019 (n = 69). Body mass index (BMI), gender, age at diagnosis, origin of CSF leak (ASB vs LSB), surgical approach, lumbar drain use, recurrence, pre-operative diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) were collected.

Results:

69 patients included in this study met criteria for sCSF leak without a traumatic or iatrogenic cause (Female: 51 (74%); average BMI: 37.0 ± 7.9). Forty-eight (70.0%) presented with sCSF leaks of the lateral skull base. All ASB leaks were treated with an endoscopic transnasal approach. Eleven (22.9%) LSB leak patients were treated using transmastoid approaches and 35 (72.9%) patients with a middle cranial fossa approach. Eleven patients (15.9%) reported sCSF leak recurrence. Two patients (9.5%) with anterior skull base and 9 patients (18.8%) with lateral skull base leaks had recurrence. LSB sCSF leaks had a relative risk of 2.192 of recurrence compared to ASB leaks (95% CI: 0.431-11.157, P = .483). A 5.017 times increased risk (95% CI: 1.285-19.583, P = .020) was reported for patients with OSA, while the risks for DM and BMI were 1.351 (95% CI: 0.67-9.105, P = .177) and 1.026 (95% CI: 0.963-1.094, P = .426) respectively. Patients with sCSF leak recurrence had significantly lower lumbar drain use (33.3%) than those without recurrence (72.7%) ( P = .049).

Conclusion:

Spontaneous CSF leak recurrence is complex and multifactorial, and while patients with both DM and OSA had the higher risk of recurrence, OSA is likely an independent clinical risk factor for sCSF leak recurrence in this patient population.
A Retrospective Study to Assess the Accuracy of Frozen Sections in Laser Laryngeal Surgery
Authors: Nerurkar Nupur Kapoor , Shah Keya , Patel Keyuri , Muzumdar Girish
Published: November 2022

Objective:

The basis of good vocal outcomes following Transoral Laser Microlaryngeal Cordectomy (TLMC) is the narrow margin that is oncologically accepted for the glottis. Our objective is to evaluate the reliability of frozen section (FS) compared to paraffin section (PS) during TLMC and during laser laryngeal surgery when an incisonal or excisional biopsy is being performed.

Methods:

Retrospectively, records of 159 sequential patients who underwent CO2 laser laryngeal surgery with intraoperative FS were reviewed along with the final PS. Group A patients were TLMC patients where FS was utilized for free margin confirmation (42 specimens) and Group B patients were those in whom FS was performed for primary diagnosis (122 specimens).

Results:

A total of 164 samples were included where specimens submitted for FS were also processed for PS. Concordance was observed in 156 samples, discordance in 8, with 4 cases belonging to each group. FS was reported as false negative in 5 and false positive in 3 cases. In Group A where FS was utilized for free margin confirmation, the sensitivity was found to be 60%, specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) 100%, and negative predictive value (NPV) 88.9%. In Group B where FS was performed for primary diagnosis, the sensitivity was found to be 98.4%, specificity 95.1%, PPV 95.2%, and NPV 98.3%.

Conclusion:

A 100% PPV of FS in group A suggests that positive FS margins during TLMC may be safely relied upon in making decisions to upgrade the type of cordectomy being performed. A NPV of 88.9% in group A suggests that despite a clear frozen margin report during TLMC, 11.1% of patients would need further treatment. A PPV of 95.2% in group B suggests that although FS analysis is important for guiding further management, decisions regarding major laryngeal surgery should not be undertaken based solely on FS.
Sketch face recognition based on domain adaptation scaled entropy meta-network
Authors: Cao Lin , Chen Changwu , Guo Yanan , Du Kangning
Published: November 2022

In recent years, sketch face recognition has a wide application in law enforcement agencies and criminals. Deep learning plays a crucial role in the recent developments of face recognition, however, it is challenging to employ deep learning methods for sketch face recognition due to insufficient face photo–sketch data. Moreover, compared to photos, sketches lack detailed texture, and there exists a domain gap between photos and sketches, hence, traditional homogeneous face recognition methods perform poorly in sketch face recognition. In this paper, a novel deep learning method termed Domain Adaptation Scaled Entropy Meta-Network (DASEMN) is proposed to tackle sketch face recognition tasks. Specifically, a meta-learning training strategy is designed to tackle the few-shot problem and improve the generalization ability of the network. Then, a generalized entropy loss termed scaled mean entropy loss is proposed to guide the network to extract discriminate features. Finally, a domain adaptation module is introduced in the training set to reduce the domain gap between the sketch domain and the photo domain. Experiments on UoM-SGFS and CUFSF sketch face databases show that the proposed method is superior to other sketch face recognition methods.
Neuro-adaptive cooperative control for a class of high-order nonlinear multi-agent systems
Authors: Li Junyu , Zhang Anguo , Peng Cheng
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we studied the cooperative control problem for a class of high-order nonlinear multi-agent systems (MASs) with external disturbance and system uncertainty. A neuro-adaptive robust controller with sliding mode variable structure method, with an online-learning RBF-like neural network was proposed to approximate the nonlinear terms. Further, sliding mode variable structure method was used to eliminate the influence of external disturbance and system uncertainty. Lyapunov stability theorem verified the capability of system consensus, and the sufficient conditions for cooperatively uniformly ultimately bounded (CUUB) are also given. At last, two numerical simulations on both homogeneous and heterogeneous MASs demonstrated the effectiveness of our proposed method.
Coronavirus–Related Stressors, Resilient Mindset, Loneliness, Depressive Symptoms in College Students: Testing a Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Arslan Gökmen , Coşkun Muhammet
Published: November 2022

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak alarmingly threats the mental health and functioning of people globally. The present study aims to examine the moderated mediation role of resilient mindset and loneliness in the association of coronavirus stress and depressive symptoms. We recruited 394 undergraduate students from a state university in Türkiye, ranging in age between 18 and 47 years ( M = 22.76, SD = 3.88; 65% female). The main results revealed that resilient mindset mediated the relationship between coronavirus-related stress and depressive symptoms. Moreover, loneliness moderated the mediating effect of resilient mindset in the coronavirus stress and depressive symptoms association. Taken together, these findings pointed out that the effects of the coronavirus stress on depressive symptoms can be captured better by underlying psychological mechanisms, namely resilient mindset and loneliness.
Hydrocarbon potential of shales and lignites of Oligocene-Miocene Ogwashi-Asaba formation exposed in Issele-Uku of Anambra Basin, Southern Nigeria as both conventional and unconventional resources
Authors: Jolayemi V O , Adeoye J A , Akande S O
Published: November 2022

Hydrocarbon potentials of lignites and shales of Oligocene-Miocene Ogwashi-Asaba Formation outcropping along springs at Issele-Uku and Azagba-Ogwashi areas of Anambra Basin, Southern Nigeria were investigated through total organic carbon (TOC), Rock-Eval pyrolysis and organic petrology analyses. Lignite has an average TOC of 47.20 wt.% and shale of 9.15 wt.%, suggesting good to excellent source rocks. Sporinite, resinite, and humodetrinite are the dominant sub-maceral. Ratios of average huminite, liptinite, and inertinite maceral group (H:L:I) in lignite from Nnem-Agadi, Iyiodo, Mgbala, and Nkpunkpa are 55:35:10, 66:24:10, 62:25:13, and 58:30:12, respectively, while for shales in Nnem-Agadi is 57:28:15 and Iyiodo is 55:20:15. Average hydrogen index (HI) of lignite is 436 mgHC/gTOC, and shale is 218 mgHC/gTOC. HI of 783 mgHC/gTOC in one lignite from Nnem-Agadi indicates Type I oil-prone kerogen typical of algae-sourced organic matter, whereas Type II oil and gas kerogen is present in both lignites and shales. Type III gas-prone kerogen is found only in shale. Genetic potential of 106.95 kgHC/t) in lignites and 20.87 kgHC/t in shales indicate excellent and moderate oil and gas potentials. All the source rocks are immature at the current outcrop positions but could have possibly attained maturity in the deeper subsurface area of the basin and contributed to the petroleum systems in the Anambra Basins. Ogwashi-Asaba formation has similar source rocks and organic matter types with the ones generating mixed marine and terrestrial oil within Agbada Formation, in the Niger Delta Basin. These source rocks are significant Oligocene-Miocene conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon resources depending on their current depth in the rift basins in West and Central Africa.
Interference With the Work of Dog Guides in Public: A Survey
Authors: Allman Melissa R. , Freeberg Kathleen , Evans Katy M.
Published: November 2022

Introduction: One of the greatest challenges dog guide handlers face after completing training is interference with their dogs’ work, both from people and other dogs. The Seeing Eye surveyed its active dog guide handlers to gain a better understanding of the types and severity of interference they were currently experiencing and to develop strategies to better equip handlers to deal with that interference. Methods: For one month (October 2019), an online survey was made available to the 1,761 active Seeing Eye handlers concerning the interference they had experienced while working their dogs in public within the past 5 years. The survey questions were designed to elicit information about the types, frequency, and severity of interference handlers experience both from people and other dogs, as well as the settings in which the interference took place. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results: Eighty-nine percent of handlers had experienced people interfering with the work of their dogs at least occasionally by talking to or making eye contact with them, and 78% had experienced interference from other dogs regularly. Interference from other dogs was usually nonaggressive, but 36% reported other dogs making aggressive physical contact with their dogs. Interference of all types mostly occurred in public places. Discussion: A robust, multifaceted public awareness campaign is necessary to address the persistent problem of interference with dog guide teams. Implications for Practitioners: Many factors influence a person's decision about whether to work with a dog guide. This study provides practitioners with a more realistic picture of the challenges handlers are likely to face in their encounters with the public. Practitioners and dog guide schools can use the information in the study to better equip and support dog guide handlers to proactively engage the public and manage interference when it does occur.
Crosslinguistic influence in the conceptualization of motion events: A synthesis study on L2 acquisition of Chinese motion expressions
Authors: Wu Shu-Ling , Nunome Takako , Wang Jun
Published: November 2022

As Chinese shows both satellite- and verb-framed properties (Slobin, 2004; Talmy, 2012, 2016), it provides a unique lens through which to observe the extent of first-language (L1) typological influence in second language (L2) acquisition of motion expressions. This study has dual purposes. First, it extends Wu’s (2016) investigation on motion expressions produced by 80 L1 satellite-framed English learners of L2 Chinese to include newly collected data produced by L1 verb-framed speakers, a sample comprised of 41 L1 Japanese learners of Chinese and 40 Japanese native speakers. Second, it synthesizes the data from both studies and comprehensively examines factors that have been proposed to affect development of L2 thinking-for-speaking (TFS) patterns. The results show that development of L2 TFS is best predicted by learners’ L1 type, but the effect is mitigated by L2 proficiency. While the L1 English learners outperform L1 Japanese learners in their development of target-like L2 Chinese TFS, learners with limited L2 proficiency in both groups tend to adopt verb-framed strategies to express only the core path information of a motion event and leave out the manner details. Analysis of L1 Japanese learners’ oral narratives in L1 Japanese and L2 Chinese also shows that reverse L2-to-L1 transfer is less likely to happen when learning a typologically closer L2 that requires minimal restructuring of their L1 TFS.
Diagnostic and predictive value of resistive / pulsatility indices of ophthalmic artery and common carotid artery for the development of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Şimşek Sadullah , İşlek Akif
Published: November 2022

Background

Ophthalmic artery resistive index (OA RI) was a controversial parameter to show hemodynamic changes due to diabetic retinopathy (DRP).

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic and predictive value of resistive and pulsatility index (RI and PI, respectively) of OA and common carotid artery (CCA) for the development of DRP.

Material and Methods

A total of 60 patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) type 2 (study group) and 30 healthy participants (control group) were evaluated between January and June 2021 by Doppler ultrasonography (DUS). RI and PI values were compared between groups with a Student’s t-test. Cutoff value, sensitivity, and specificity were calculated for the significant variables with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

In total, there were 20 (22.2%) patients with DM without DRP (DMwoRP), 20 (22.2%) patients in the non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy group (NPDRP), and 20 (22.2%) patients in the proliferative diabetic retinopathy group (PDRP). The mean of CCA RI and OA RI in the PDRP group was significantly higher than in the other three groups ( P < 0.001). The mean of CCA RI and OA RI was significantly higher in the PDRP group than in the NPDRP group, and in the NPDRP group compared to the DMwoRP group. CCA RI and OA RI showed a significantly high correlation (r = 0.849; P < 0.001). Sensitivity was 95% and specificity was 100% for the diagnosis of PDRP for the 0.82 cutoff value of OA RI (AUR = 0.999, 95% confidence interval for AUC = 0.997–0.1000; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The OA RI accurately reflects DRP-induced orbital blood flow changes and is a predictive index for DRP prognosis.
When you wish upon a (GWP) star: Environmental governance and the reflexive performativity of global warming metrics
Authors: Cusworth George , Brice Jeremy , Lorimer Jamie , Garnett Tara
Published: November 2022

The metrics used in environmental management are performative. That is, the tools deployed to classify and measure the natural world interact with the things they were designed to observe. The idea of performativity also captures the way these interactions shape or distort the governance activities that metrics are used to inform. The performativity of metrics reveals how mundane practices of measurement and auditing are inscribed with substantial power. This has proven particularly true for the global warming metrics, like GWP100, that are central to the management of anthropogenic climate change. Greenhouse gases are materially heterogenous, and the metrics used to commensurate their various warming impacts influence the distribution of both culpability and capital in climate policy and markets. The publication of a new warming metric, GWP* (or GWP Star), has generated a modest scientific controversy, as a diverse cast of stakeholders recognize this performativity seek to influence the metrological regime under which they live. We analyse this controversy, particularly as it unfolded in the fractious discourse around sustainable food and farming, to develop the concept of reflexive performativity: where actors are anticipatory and strategic in their engagement with the metrics that are used to govern their lives. We situate this idea in relation to, and in tentative evidential support of, the concept of reflexive modernization.
Gaze Behaviors of Drivers Approaching Crosswalks with Different Sign and Crosswalk Treatments
Authors: Pike Adam M. , Shirinzad Maryam , Ananda Ramya Sura , Pawar Abhishek Rajkumar
Published: November 2022

Where do drivers look when approaching crosswalk locations with different sign and crosswalk treatments? This paper explores the gaze behavior of drivers approaching crosswalk locations at two study areas. The closed course study area evaluated the observation of traffic control devices (TCDs) placed in an otherwise sparse environment. The campus course area evaluated TCDs placed in visually complex environments. Driver gaze behavior was investigated to determine how TCDs were viewed in both day and night conditions as the drivers approached the crosswalks. Researchers found that drivers generally looked at crosswalk markings for a longer time at night than during the day at both the closed course and campus course locations. Nighttime observations of traffic signs were significantly longer than daytime observations on the closed course area, but not significantly longer at the campus course. In general, the crosswalks were found to capture more gaze time than the signs. Signs captured less attention and, in some cases, no direct eye-gazes during the evaluation time frame. When considering the gaze patterns when no TCDs were present, there were typically increases in gazes at the signs. It was observed that gaze values were generally higher for the closed course where there was no traffic and minimal distractions. Distractions and complex driving environments may shift drivers’ attention from the roadway and TCDs, thus requiring the design, implementation, and maintenance of TCDs such that they are easily interpreted and not visually dissolved in the abundance of visual disturbances of a complex environment.