bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative studies of ovipositional preference, larval feeding selectivity, and nutritional indices of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on 6 crops
Authors: Wang Wen-Wen , He Peng-Yang , Liu Tong-Xian , Jing Xiang-Feng , Zhang Shi-Ze
Published: April 2023

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), is a significant invasive pest identified as a serious threat to global agricultural production and food security. However, its ovipositional preference, larval feeding selectivity, and nutritional indices are less studied. Here, we investigated these traits of FAW when fed on maize, wheat, soybean, tomato, cotton, and Chinese cabbage, and analyzed the correlation between its nutritional indices and the nutritional contents of crops. The results showed that the highest number of eggs were laid on maize and the lowest number were laid on tomato. The highest feeding choice rate of third instar larvae was on maize, and the lowest was on Chinese cabbage. The fifth instar larvae showed the highest feeding choice rate on maize, but no significant differences were found among other crop species. The food consumption (FC), the relative growth rate (RGR), and the approximate digestibility (AD) were significantly higher on maize and wheat, while the efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI) and the efficiency of conversion of digested food (ECD) were significantly higher when fed on cotton and Chinese cabbage. The FC, the relative consumption rate (RCR), RGR, and AD were significantly and positively correlated with soluble sugar and protein contents of host plants, while the ECI and ECD were significantly and negatively correlated with the soluble sugar content. The present study indicates that FAW may cause potential economic losses to these crops besides maize, and these findings are valuable in managing and controlling this pest.
Exploring the effects of caffeine on Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) survival and fecundity
Authors: Abernathy Haley A , Boyce Ross M , Reiskind Michael H
Published: April 2023

Investigating new avenues of mosquito control is an important area of entomological research. Examining the effects of various compounds on mosquito biology contributes to the foundation of knowledge from which novel control methods can be built. Caffeine, in particular, is a commonly consumed compound that has not been thoroughly studied for its potential in disrupting the natural life cycle of mosquitoes. In this exploratory study, we analyzed caffeine’s effect on the blood-feeding behavior, survival, and fecundity of Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes. Two outcomes, blood-feeding behavior and fecundity, were analyzed in the first experiment in which mosquitoes were exposed to caffeine doses ranging from 0.2 to 2.4 mg/ml. We found a negative linear relationship between dose and fecundity, but no significant impact on blood-feeding behavior. Adjustments were made to the experimental design in which mosquitoes were exposed to doses ranging from 2.5 to 20 mg/ml. From this experiment, we found that caffeine negatively affected blood-feeding behavior, survival, and fecundity especially at higher concentrations. These results suggest that caffeine could be a potential target for future mosquito control research.
Alternative Forward Models for Imaging Thick Specimens in Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Koeck Philip Johannes Barrett
Published: April 2023

I have investigated two different forward models for image formation in transmission electron microscopy of thick specimens, the 3DCtf model, which introduces a defocus gradient in the linear approximation, and the multislice model. An important result is that the 3DCtf model does not seem to be compatible with the multislice image formation model. A second very useful finding is that the exit wave in the multislice model has an imaginary part, which, in first-order approximation, is a pure projection of the specimen and is not affected by the defocus gradient. The defocus gradient only comes into play in real valued and higher-order imaginary terms. If the multislice model is closer to reality than the 3DCtf-model, then the best way to retrieve the specimen projection for thicker specimens should be a procedure for retrieving the exit wave's imaginary term, for example using images recorded at different defocus values.
The Mean Inner Potential of Hematite α-Fe2O3 Across the Morin Transition
Authors: Auslender Avi , Basha Adham , Grave Daniel A , Rothschild Avner , Diéguez Oswaldo , Kohn Amit
Published: April 2023

We measure the mean inner potential (MIP) of hematite, α-Fe2O3, using electron holography and transmission electron microscopy. Since the MIP is sensitive to valence electrons, we propose its use as a chemical bonding parameter for solids. Hematite can test the sensitivity of the MIP as a bonding parameter because of the Morin magnetic phase transition. Across this transition temperature, no change in the corundum crystal structure can be distinguished, while a change in hybridized Fe-3d and O-2p states was reported, affecting ionic bonding. For a given crystallographic phase, the change in the MIP with temperature is expected to be minor due to thermal expansion. Indeed, we measure the temperature dependence in corundum α-Al2O3(112¯0) between 95 and 295 K showing a constant MIP value of ∼16.8 V within the measurement accuracy of 0.45 V. Thus, our objectives are as follows: measure the MIP of hematite as a function of temperature and examine the sensitivity of the MIP as a bonding parameter for crystals. Measured MIPs of α-Fe2O3(112¯0) above the Morin transition are equal, 17.85 ± 0.50 V, 17.93 ± 0.50 V, at 295 K, 230 K, respectively. Below the Morin transition, at 95 K, a significant reduction of ∼1.3 V is measured to 16.56 ± 0.46 V. We show that this reduction follows charge redistribution resulting in increased ionic bonding.
Effect of Fatigue on Movement Patterns During a Loaded Ruck March
Authors: Bloch Audra E , Steckenrider J Josiah , Zifchock Rebecca A , Freisinger Gregory M , Bode Victoria G , Elkin-Frankston Seth
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Loaded ruck marching is a common training and operational task for many members of the military. It is known to cause fatigue, affect soldier readiness, and can lead to traumatic and overuse injuries. Quantifying the gait changes that occur over the course of a loaded ruck march may provide a better understanding of injury mechanisms and potentially allow for development of individualized injury-prevention training programs. This study examined the change in soldiers’ gait patterns over the course of a loaded ruck march in order to examine the correlation between fatigue and kinematic parameters. Fatigue is a subjective term that may encompass factors such as energy expenditure, muscle exhaustion, and cognitive engagement. Since it can be difficult to quantify, the current study makes the broad assumption that fatigue increases in some (potentially nonlinear) fashion during a loaded ruck march.

Method

Three platoons of soldiers participated in a field training exercise with inertial measurement sensors placed on their chests and ankles to record gait parameters throughout a 7-mile ruck march. The effects of fatigue on stride length, stride width, ankle yaw, and torso lean (anterior-posterior [AP] and side-to-side [SS]) were compared using one-way repeated measure analyses of variance.

Results

In comparing the first and last quarters of the ruck march, stride length decreased, stride width increased, stride width variability increased, AP torso lean variability increased, and SS torso lean variability increased.

Conclusion

Although they do not describe a direct relationship to injury, these results can inform enhanced approaches to quantify and predict soldier fatigue and more reliably prevent future injury.
Towards causal mechanisms of consciousness through focused transcranial brain stimulation
Authors: Havlík Marek , Hlinka Jaroslav , Klírová Monika , Adámek Petr , Horáček Jiří
Published: April 2023

Conscious experience represents one of the most elusive problems of empirical science, namely neuroscience. The main objective of empirical studies of consciousness has been to describe the minimal sets of neural events necessary for a specific neuronal state to become consciously experienced. The current state of the art still does not meet this objective but rather consists of highly speculative theories based on correlates of consciousness and an ever-growing list of knowledge gaps. The current state of the art is defined by the limitations of past stimulation techniques and the emphasis on the observational approach. However, looking at the current stimulation technologies that are becoming more accurate, it is time to consider an alternative approach to studying consciousness, which builds on the methodology of causal explanations via causal alterations. The aim of this methodology is to move beyond the correlates of consciousness and focus directly on the mechanisms of consciousness with the help of the currently focused brain stimulation techniques, such as geodesic transcranial electric neuromodulation. This approach not only overcomes the limitations of the correlational methodology but will also become another firm step in the following science of consciousness.
Convection-enhanced delivery of immunomodulatory therapy for high-grade glioma
Authors: Sperring Colin P , Argenziano Michael G , Savage William M , Teasley Damian E , Upadhyayula Pavan S , Winans Nathan J , Canoll Peter , Bruce Jeffrey N
Published: April 2023

The prognosis for glioblastoma has remained poor despite multimodal standard of care treatment, including temozolomide, radiation, and surgical resection. Further, the addition of immunotherapies, while promising in a number of other solid tumors, has overwhelmingly failed in the treatment of gliomas, in part due to the immunosuppressive microenvironment and poor drug penetrance to the brain. Local delivery of immunomodulatory therapies circumvents some of these challenges and has led to long-term remission in select patients. Many of these approaches utilize convection-enhanced delivery (CED) for immunological drug delivery, allowing high doses to be delivered directly to the brain parenchyma, avoiding systemic toxicity. Here, we review the literature encompassing immunotherapies delivered via CED—from preclinical model systems to clinical trials—and explore how their unique combination elicits an antitumor response by the immune system, decreases toxicity, and improves survival among select high-grade glioma patients.
An expanded role for surgery in grade 3 1p/19q co-deleted oligodendroglioma
Authors: Gupta Saksham , Nawabi Noah L , Emani Siva , Medeiros Lila , Bernstock Joshua D , Duvall Julia , Ng Patrick , Smith Timothy R , Wen Patrick Y , Reardon David A , Arnaout Omar
Published: April 2023

Background

Grade 3 1p/19q co-deleted oligodendroglioma is an uncommon primary CNS tumor with a high rate of progression and recurrence. This study examines the benefit of surgery after progression and identifies predictors of survival.

Methods

This is a single-institution retrospective cohort study of consecutive adult patients with anaplastic or grade 3 1p/19q co-deleted oligodendroglioma diagnosed between 2001 and 2020.

Results

Eighty patients with 1p/19q co-deleted grade 3 oligodendroglioma were included. The median age was 47 years (interquartile range 38–56) and 38.8% were women. All patients underwent surgery, including gross total resection (GTR) for 26.3% of patients, subtotal resection (STR) for 70.0% of patients, and biopsy for 3.8% of patients. Forty-three cases (53.8%) progressed at a median of 5.6 years, and the median overall survival (OS) was 14.1 years. Among 43 cases of progression or recurrence, 21 (48.8%) underwent another resection. Patients who underwent a second operation had improved OS (P = .041) and survival after progression/recurrence (P = .012), but similar time to subsequent progression as patients who did not have repeat surgery (P = .50). Predictors of mortality at initial diagnosis included a preoperative Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) under 80 (hazard ratio [HR] 5.4; 95% CI 1.5–19.2), an STR or biopsy rather than GTR (HR 4.1; 95% CI 1.2–14.2), and a persistent postoperative neurologic deficit (HR 4.0; 95% CI 1.2–14.1).

Conclusions

Repeat surgery is associated with increased survival, but not time to subsequent progression for progressing or recurrent 1p/19q co-deleted grade 3 oligodendrogliomas recur. Mortality is associated with a preoperative KPS under 80, lack of GTR, and persistent postoperative neurologic deficits after the initial surgery.
High-temperature superconductivity up to 223 K in the Al stabilized metastable hexagonal lanthanum superhydride
Authors: Chen Su , Qian Yingcai , Huang Xiaoli , Chen Wuhao , Guo Jianning , Zhang Kexin , Zhang Jinglei , Yuan Huiqiu , Cui Tian
Published: April 2023

As compressed hydrides constantly refresh the records of superconducting critical temperatures (Tc) in the vicinity of room temperature, this further reinforces the confidence to find more high-temperature superconducting hydrides. In this process, metastable phases of superhydrides offer enough possibilities to access superior superconducting properties. Here we report a metastable hexagonal lanthanum superhydride (P63/mmc-LaH10) stabilized at 146 GPa by introducing an appropriate proportion of Al, which exhibits high-temperature superconductivity with Tc ∼ 178 K, and this value is enhanced to a maximum Tc ∼ 223 K at 164 GPa. A huge upper critical magnetic field value Hc2(0) reaches 223 T at 146 GPa. The small volume expansion of P63/mmc-(La, Al) H10 compared with the binary LaH10 indicates the possible interstitial sites of Al atoms filling into the La–H lattice, instead of forming conventional ternary alloy-based superhydrides. This work provides a new strategy for metastable high-temperature superconductors through the multiple-element system.
Public policy interventions for preventing and treating obesity: scoping review
Authors: Souza Lana M S , Chaves Sônia C L , Santana Jerusa M , Pereira Marcos
Published: April 2023

Context

Obesity is a multicausal social problem and a pandemic, and it presents a public health challenge in many countries. Hence, public health interventions have been used in an endeavour to prevent and/or control increased obesity among populations.

Objective

This review study aimed to provide an overview of the academic literature and to analyze the strategies involved in the main public policies focused on preventing and controlling obesity in a number of countries.

Data Sources

MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, and LILACS databases were searched.

Data Extraction

Original studies were included for which the core objective was related to real-life public policy interventions for obesity.

Data Analysis

The studies were organized according to their characteristics, and the qualitative analysis was based on the categorization proposed by the author Poulain. The review included 41 studies and identified 15 types of interventions focused on obesity; the largest proportion of actions were developed in school and city environments and were geared toward behavioral change, supported by direct or indirect government action. It was observed that many strategies focused on environmental line through regulatory and legislative measures, and health promotion geared toward the individual was based on the dissemination of information as a means for behavioral change. A smaller focus was given to individual care and treatment, and participative actions in the community.

Conclusion

The design of public health strategies applicable to obesity as proposed by Poulain provides a valid model for evaluating interventions. The behavioral approach involving guidance through health education toward a healthy lifestyle prevails in public policies, indicating a movement toward accountability of individuals. However, it is necessary to deepen the debate on the social structures that determine obesity (and which limit possibilities of choice), aligned with cultural change regarding its occurrence, and to employ care strategies based on scientific evidence and which focus on the needs of the subjects.
The Impact of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Mono- and Coinfection on Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Taylor Brandie DePaoli , Adekanmbi Victor , Zhang Yuanyi , Berenson Abbey
Published: April 2023

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have recently been linked to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). However, the impact of Neisseria gonorrhoeae on risk of HDP is not well understood. This study determined the impact of gonorrhea and gonorrhea coinfection on HDP and other adverse pregnancy outcomes in a population with a high screening rate and presumed treatment.

Methods

This retrospective study included 29 821 singleton births between 2016 and 2021. The STI testing results, demographic variables, and pregnancy outcomes were identified from electronic health records. The HDP were primary outcomes of interest including gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and superimposed preeclampsia. We further examined preeclampsia subtypes defined by severe features and gestational age of delivery (term and preterm preeclampsia). Secondary outcomes included preterm premature rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis, and preterm delivery. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Models were adjusted for maternal age, maternal race/ethnicity, and smoking.

Results

Gonorrhea screening occurred in 95% of the population. Gonorrhea increased the odds of preterm preeclampsia (adjusted OR [ORadj.], 1.95; 95% CI, 1.02–3.73) and preterm birth (ORadj., 1.78; 95% CI, 1.22–2.60). Furthermore, gonorrhea-chlamydia coinfection was associated with preterm birth (ORadj., 1.77; 95% CI, 1.03–3.04). However, results were similar when we examined gonorrhea monoinfection (ORadj., 1.76; 95% CI, 1.04–2.97).

Conclusions

Among a diverse population of pregnant individuals, gonorrhea increased odds of preterm preeclampsia and preterm delivery Further research is needed to determine the burden of STIs on HDP, including investigations into biological effects during pregnancy.
Ischemia-induced intestinal de-epithelization and consequent cholangitis lenta after usage of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in COVID-19 patients: an autopsy series
Authors: Hatanaka Sae , Yamada Yuki , Kubo Terufumi , Magara Kazufumi , Ono Yusuke , Sugita Shintaro , Tsukahara Tomohide , Kyuno Daisuke , Hosaka Michiko , Sasaki Kenta , Hirohashi Yoshihiko , Yamakawa Tsukasa , Harada Keisuke , Bunya Naofumi , Narimatsu Eichi , Nakase Hiroshi , Hasegawa Tadashi , Osanai Makoto , Torigoe Toshihiko
Published: April 2023

Since its discovery in late 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has spread around the world, causing millions of deaths due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Numerous clinical and post-mortem investigations of COVID-19 cases have found myriad clinical and pathological manifestations of the disease. In this report, we present three autopsy cases in which, despite weaning from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), extensive intestinal epithelial shedding, probably due to ischemia, was followed by massive watery diarrhea and the spread of infection via the portal vein due to bacterial translocation, which resulted in cholangitis lenta. Thrombophilia was attributed to ECMO usage and COVID-19-related vascular endothelial damage. These cases provide instructive findings showing that the loss of the intestinal barrier may be the underlying cause of severe watery diarrhea and liver failure in COVID-19 patients, especially with ECMO usage.
Marine methods for carbon dioxide removal: fundamentals and myth-busting for the wider community
Authors: Rohling Eelco J
Published: April 2023

To avoid global warming in excess of 1.5°C under the current sluggish adoption of drastic reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions, application of methods to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere will become essential in the near future; yet, development of these methods is in its infancy. Land-based methods are further developed than marine methods, but it is likely that similar-scaled application will be necessary in both realms. There are many misconceptions in discussion groups and fora about the ‘simplicity’ or ‘ease’ of proposed marine applications, partly because the complex marine carbon cycle is insufficiently understood by the proponents, having been discussed in largely inaccessible, technical texts only. This review outlines the basic operation of the marine carbon cycle in straightforward terms, with some simplifications, to help advance the debate among the wider community. Break-out boxes provide additional detail where desired, and references (and the sources cited therein) provide avenues for further study. The review then discusses two potential marine methods for atmospheric carbon removal that are thought to offer the greatest potential in terms of carbon removal mass: ocean iron fertilization and ocean alkalinity enhancement. Finally, six statements/arguments that seem to regularly crop up in carbon removal discussion groups are evaluated within the perspective of the compiled and reviewed information.
Effectiveness of an injury prevention video on risky behaviours in youth snow sports: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Priyambada Mitra Tatum , Djerboua Maya , Mahmood Sheharzad , Nettel-Aguirre Alberto , Caird Jeff K , Emery Carolyn , Hagel Brent , Russell Kelly
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Ski and snowboard-related injuries are common among Canadian youth. Analyzing the role of risky behaviours that contribute to injury risk is essential for gaining an understanding of injury prevention opportunities. The objective was to determine if rates of risky behaviour seen at the ski hill were lower for children and adolescents exposed to an educational injury prevention video.

Methods

This single-blinded cluster randomized controlled trial included students (ages 7–16) from 18 Calgary schools who were enrolled in novice levelled school-sanctioned ski and snowboard programs. Consenting schools were randomly assigned to the intervention or control. The control group followed standard preparation including watching a general ski hill orientation video that was created by the ski hill. The intervention group viewed the intervention video focussed on injury prevention. The Risky Behaviour and Actions Assessment Tool was used by blinded research assistants to observe and record students’ risky behaviours at an Alberta ski hill.

Results

In total, 407 observations estimated the rate of risky behaviour. The overall rate of risky behaviour was 23.31/100 person runs in the control group and 22.95/100 person runs in the intervention group. The most commonly observed risky behaviours in both groups were skiing too close to other skiers/snowboarders and near collision with an object/person.

Conclusions

Both groups showed similar rates of risky behaviour and demonstrated the same most common type of behaviour. Practical applications: future work should focus on mitigating common risky behaviours.
Speaking up at conference question and answer sessions—disruptive behaviour typography and assessment scale
Authors: Taubert Mark , White Nicola , Minton Ollie , Keeley Paul
Published: April 2023

Conferences can be a space to present new research, network, and provide an opportunity for learning. Delegates can meet field leaders, peers, top doctors, and international colleagues in various areas of expertise. Challenging behaviours, in particular in the question and answer session, but also during lectures themselves, may reduce overall enjoyment and learning. The authors of this article have written an observational reflection on some observed behaviours and have come up with a 10-point assessment scale. The article aims to stimulate discussion on what constitutes disruptive conduct, but also serves as a guide for conference session chair-people and delegates to spot patterns of contribution that may be unwelcome.
Stimulating risk averse farmers to adopt microbial applications
Authors: Tensi Annika Francesca , Ang Frederic
Published: April 2023

Increasing agricultural production, while decreasing its impact on the environment is a global challenge. Sustainable innovations, such as microbial applications, can play an important role in this light. However, risk averse farmers are often reluctant to adopt such innovations. In this study, we investigate (i) the relationship between risk attitude and farmers’ intention to adopt microbial applications and (ii) the effectiveness of an informational video to stimulate the adoption. In July 2020, 98 Dutch arable farmers have participated in an online survey with an experiment. In the experiment, half of the farmers have watched an informational video on microbial applications, while the other half was a clean control without receiving information. Then, all farmers are assigned a monetarily incentivised standard Multiple Price List (MPL) and a payoff-varying MPL lottery game to assess the relationship between innovation adoption and risk attitudes. We find evidence that the video has a significant effect on farmers’ intention to adopt microbial applications. Further, our results suggest that the intention to use microbial applications can be influenced by farmers’ risk attitude.
The Partisanship of Financial Regulators
Authors: Engelberg Joseph , Henriksson Matthew , Manela Asaf , Williams Jared
Published: April 2023

We analyze the partisanship of Commissioners at the SEC and Governors at the Federal Reserve Board. Using recent advances in machine learning, we identify partisan phrases in Congress, such as “red tape” and “climate change,” and observe their usage among regulators. Although the Fed has remained relatively nonpartisan throughout our sample period (1930–2019), we find that partisanship among SEC Commissioners rose to an all-time high during the 2010-2019 period, driven by more-partisan Commissioners replacing less-partisan ones. Partisanship at the SEC appears in both the language of new SEC rules and the voting behavior of SEC Commissioners.

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Patient and provider perspectives of personal health record use: a multisite qualitative study in HIV care settings
Authors: Conti Jennifer , Fix Gemmae M , Javier Sarah J , Cheng Hannah , Perez Taryn , Dunlap Shawn , McInnes Donald Keith , Midboe Amanda M
Published: April 2023

Use of tethered personal health records (PHRs) can streamline care, reduce unnecessary care utilization, and improve health outcomes for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Providers play a role in influencing patients’ decision to adopt and use PHRs. To explore patient and provider acceptance and use of PHRs in an HIV care setting, we used a qualitative study design guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. Participants included providers of HIV care, patients living with HIV, and PHR coordinating and support staff in the Veterans Health Administration (VA). Interviews were analyzed using directed content analysis. We interviewed providers (n = 41), patients living with HIV (n = 60), and PHR coordinating and support staff (n = 16) at six VA Medical Centers between June and December 2019. Providers perceived PHR use could enhance care continuity, appointment efficiency, and patient engagement. Yet, some expressed concerns that patient PHR use would increase provider workload and detract from clinical care. Concerns about poor PHR interoperability with existing clinical tools further eroded acceptance and use of PHRs. PHR use can enhance care for patients with HIV and other complex, chronic conditions. Negative provider attitudes toward PHRs may impact providers’ encouragement of use among patients, consequently limiting patient uptake. Multipronged interventions at the individual, institutional, and system level are needed to enhance PHR engagement among both providers and patients.
Testing of a custom, portable drill press to minimize probe misalignment in sap flow sensors
Authors: Beslity Justin , Shaw Stephen B
Published: April 2023

The accurate estimation of plant transpiration is critical to the fields of hydrology, plant physiology and ecology. Among the various methods of measuring transpiration in the field, the sap flow methods based on head pulses offers a cost-effective and energy-efficient option to directly measure the plant-level movement of water through the hydraulically active tissue. While authors have identified several possible sources of error in these measurements, one of the most common sources is misalignment of the sap flow probes due to user error. Though the effects of probe misalignment are well documented, no device or technique has been universally adopted to ensure the proper installation of sap flow probes. In this paper we compare the magnitude of misalignment errors among a 5 mm thick drilling template (DT), a 10 mm thick DT, and a custom designed, field-portable drill press. The different techniques were evaluated in the laboratory using a 7.5 cm wood block and in the field, comparing differences in measured sap flow. Based on analysis of holes drilled in the wood block, we found that the portable drill press was most effective in assuring that drill holes remained parallel, even at 7.5 cm depth. In field installations, nearly 50% of holes drilled with a 5 mm template needed to be redrilled while none needed to be when drilled with the drill press. Widespread use of a portable drill press when implementing the heat pulse method would minimize alignment uncertainty and allow a clearer understanding of other sources of uncertainty due to variability in tree species, age, or external drivers or transpiration.
Development and engineering application of integrated safety monitoring systems for China's high-speed trains
Authors: Zhu Yan , Wang Tiantian , Shen Ruiyuan , Xie Jingsong , Yang Jingsong , Zhang Guoqin , Tian Hongqi , Liang Xifeng
Published: April 2023

With the improvement of the running speed of China's high-speed trains, the demands for running status monitoring and security assurance of High-speed Electric Multiple Units (EMU) have increased significantly. However, the current safety monitoring systems are independent, which is not conducive to the comprehensive monitoring and information sharing of the whole vehicle. The temperature monitoring of running gear is insensitive to early failures. How to develop a train operation safety monitoring system with strong engineering implementation and high integration is a key problem to be solved. For the monitoring of running stationarity, frame stability and running gear health of China's high-speed trains, an integrated safety monitoring system framework is designed, and the logic and algorithm for the diagnosis of stationarity, stability and health states of rotating parts are constructed. Monitoring software which fused the temperature, high and low frequency vibration data is developed, and the design and installation of the vibration temperature composite sensors are completed. The research results have realized the integration and comprehensive processing of multiple monitoring systems, completed the improvement from single component and vehicle-level safety monitoring to multi-system, train-level and interactive monitoring. In the process of real vehicle application, the developed monitoring system acquires the vehicle operation status data accurately and in real time. The constructed diagnosis algorithm and logic evaluates the vehicle operation status accurately and in a timely manner, and avoids the progression from fault to accident. The research results show that the integrated safety monitoring system can provide technical support for train operation safety.
Genome Resource of Sclerotinia nivalis Strain SnTB1, a Plant Pathogen Isolated from American Ginseng
Authors: Fan Sanhong , Wang Conghao , Jiang Jinglong , Geng Shishuai , Xu Xiangming , Shang Wenjing , Hu Xiaoping
Published: April 2023

Sclerotinia fungi are necrotrophic plant pathogens that can infect a wide range of plant species and persist in natural conditions. Sclerotinia nivalis is a recently reported species in Sclerotinia and can cause white rot on many plant species. We obtained the whole genome sequence of S. nivalis strain SnTB1 assembled from Oxford Nanopore reads and further polished with Illumina reads. This assembly consists of 32 contigs with a total length of 50.37 Mb, a contig N50 of 2.74 Mb, a GC content of 39.53%, and a repeat element content of 20.68%. In total, 13,276 candidate protein-coding genes were identified and functionally annotated, including those encoding glycometabolic enzymes, proteolytic enzymes, and potential effectors. This is the first available reference genome resource for S. nivalis.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
A Case of Acute Opioid Withdrawal after Liposuction Surgery in a Patient on Extended-release Buprenorphine
Authors: Bobb Raymond , Malayala Srikrishna V. , Papudesi Bhavani Nagendra , Potluri Deepika
Published: April 2023

Background

The US Food and Drug Administration approved the once-monthly injectable extended-release buprenorphine product to treat moderate-to-severe opioid use disorders. The patient in our case report had a liposuction procedure and immediately started having opioid withdrawal symptoms after the procedure.

Case Description

The patient is a 27-year-old African-American woman who injects drugs and has morbid obesity. She enrolled in a medications for addiction treatment program and opted to get treated with extended-release buprenorphine monthly injections. She tolerated them well for a span of 6 months. In one clinic visit, she reported opioid withdrawal symptoms and started purchasing and using sublingual buprenorphine from her acquaintances. On review of history, she underwent liposuction surgery and this triggered the opioid withdrawal symptoms. Examining her abdomen revealed surgical scars at the site of the buprenorphine injection and the residual buprenorphine depot was not palpable.

A subcutaneous injection of 300-mg extended release buprenorphine was administered in the right periumbilical area in this clinic visit. The following week, she was doing well and denied any withdrawal symptoms.

Discussion

This is a unique case of “iatrogenic opioid withdrawal” after a fairly common surgical procedure. The extended-release buprenorphine formulation solidifies when it comes into contact with bodily fluids forming a depot. The depot and surrounding adipose tissue may have been removed during the patient’s liposuction procedure, causing an immediate drop in buprenorphine levels leading to acute opioid withdrawal.

This case report highlights the precautions that need to be taken before patients go for a surgical procedure like liposuction.
Association Between Positive Childhood Experiences and Childhood Flourishing Among US Children
Authors: Crouch Elizabeth , Radcliff Elizabeth , Brown Monique J. , Hung Peiyin
Published: April 2023

Objective:

There has been limited research examining the fostering of positive childhood experiences (PCEs) that could promote flourishing among children. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between 7 selected PCEs and the outcome of flourishing, among a nationally based population level survey sample of children aged 6 to 17 years.

Methods:

Data were drawn from the 2018 to 2019 National Survey of Children's Health, with children aged 6 years and older included (n = 40,561). Children were designated as flourishing if they had responses of always or usually to all 3 flourishing items measured by the National Survey of Children's Health, which were (1) showing an interest and curiosity in learning new things, (2) working to finish the task they started, and (3) staying calm and in control when faced with a challenge. To examine the association between PCEs and flourishing, multivariable logistic regression models were used.

Results:

Children who experienced each type of PCE had a higher odds of flourishing: after-school activities (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.58–2.07), community volunteer (aOR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.47–1.80), guiding mentor (aOR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.39–2.00), resilient family (aOR, 2.35; 95% CI, 2.08–2.67), safe neighborhood (aOR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.29–1.60), supportive neighborhood (aOR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.42–1.74), and connected caregiver (aOR, 3.26; 95% CI, 2.93–3.64).

Conclusion:

Findings demonstrating a significant association between PCEs and flourishing have implications for population-wide approaches to improving the prevalence of flourishing among children and youth.
Spatial Analysis of Greenspace and Mental Health in North Carolina
Authors: Ryan Sophia C. , Sugg Margaret M. , Runkle Jennifer D. , Matthews Jessica L.
Published: April 2023

Greenspace positively impacts mental health. Previous research has focused on the greenspace-mental health relationship in urban areas. Yet, little work has looked at rural areas despite rural communities reporting similar rates of poor mental health outcomes and higher rates of suicide mortality compared with urban areas. This ecological research study examined the following research questions: (1) Do public and/or private greenspaces affect the spatial distribution of mental health outcomes in North Carolina? (2) Does this relationship change with rurality? Emergency department data for 6 mental health conditions and suicide mortality data from 2009 to 2018 were included in this analysis. Spatial error and ordinary least squares regressions were used to examine the influence of public and private greenspace quantity on mental health in rural and urban communities. Results suggest greenspace benefits mental health in rural and urban communities. The strength of this relationship varies with urbanity and between public and private greenspaces, suggesting a more complex causal relationship. Given the high case counts and often lower density of mental health care facilities in rural areas, focusing attention on low-cost mental health interventions, such as greenspace, is important when considering rural mental health care.
Head-to-head comparison of magnetic resonance elastography-based liver stiffness, fat fraction, and T1 relaxation time in identifying at-risk NASH
Authors: Li Jiahui , Lu Xin , Zhu Zheng , Kalutkiewicz Kyle J. , Mounajjed Taofic , Therneau Terry M. , Venkatesh Sudhakar K. , Sui Yi , Glaser Kevin J. , Hoodeshenas Safa , Manduca Armando , Shah Vijay H. , Ehman Richard L. , Allen Alina M. , Yin Meng
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims:

The presence of at-risk NASH is associated with an increased risk of cirrhosis and complications. Therefore, noninvasive identification of at-risk NASH with an accurate biomarker is a critical need for pharmacologic therapy. We aim to explore the performance of several magnetic resonance (MR)-based imaging parameters in diagnosing at-risk NASH.

Approach and Results:

This prospective clinical trial (NCT02565446) includes 104 paired MR examinations and liver biopsies performed in patients with suspected or diagnosed NAFLD. Magnetic resonance elastography-assessed liver stiffness (LS), 6-point Dixon-derived proton density fat fraction (PDFF), and single-point saturation-recovery acquisition-calculated T1 relaxation time were explored. Among all predictors, LS showed the significantly highest accuracy in diagnosing at-risk NASH [AUCLS: 0.89 (0.82, 0.95), AUCPDFF: 0.70 (0.58, 0.81), AUCT1: 0.72 (0.61, 0.82), z-score test z >1.96 for LS vs any of others]. The optimal cutoff value of LS to identify at-risk NASH patients was 3.3 kPa (sensitivity: 79%, specificity: 82%, negative predictive value: 91%), whereas the optimal cutoff value of T1 was 850 ms (sensitivity: 75%, specificity: 63%, and negative predictive value: 87%). PDFF had the highest performance in diagnosing NASH with any fibrosis stage [AUCPDFF: 0.82 (0.72, 0.91), AUCLS: 0.73 (0.63, 0.84), AUCT1: 0.72 (0.61, 0.83), |z| <1.96 for all].

Conclusion:

Magnetic resonance elastography-assessed LS alone outperformed PDFF, and T1 in identifying patients with at-risk NASH for therapeutic trials.
The lymph node yield in the initial lateral neck dissection predicts recurrence in the lateral neck of papillary thyroid carcinoma: a revision surgery cohort study
Authors: Yu Shi-Tong , Ge Junna , Wei Zhigang , Sun Baihui , Xiao Zizheng , Li Tingting , Zhang Zhicheng , Chen Weisheng , Lei Shang-Tong
Published: April 2023

Background:

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between lateral lymph node yield (LLNY) and the ratio of lateral positive lymph nodes to lymph node yield (LPLR) from initial lateral neck dissection (LND) in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), as well as the risk of recurrence in patients undergoing LND reoperations.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study enrolled patients with PTC who underwent revision LND between 1 January 2012, and 31 December 2021. The initial and revised clinical data were retrieved. Patient demographics, clinicopathological features, clinical records, and follow-up information were also reviewed. LLNY and LPLR were determined during the initial LND.

Results:

In total, 156 patients with PTC were included in this study, with a median follow-up of 36.5 months; 107 had recurrent lateral neck disease. The optimal LLNY and LPLR cutoff values for recurrent/persistent disease were 24.5 and 32.74%, respectively. The high-risk group (LLNY<25) had the lowest recurrence-free survival rate compared with to moderate-risk group (LLNY≥25, LPLR≥32.74%) and low-risk group (LLNY≥25, LPLR<32.74%) (P<0.001). The moderate-risk group had lower recurrence-free survival than the low-risk group. Multivariate analysis revealed that an LLNY less than 25 in the initial LND was an independent risk factor for recurrence/persistence of lateral neck (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

This study identified that LLNY and LPLR were associated with recurrence/persistence in PTC patients at the time of revision surgery was performed.
The evaluation of pupil diameter by using Sirius before and after phacoemulsification in healthy, diabetic and hypertension patients
Authors: Simsek Ali , Toptan Müslüm
Published: April 2023

Background:

Pupil size can affect the selection of the ablation region in refractive surgery and intraocular lens design in cataract surgery. Therefore, the evaluation of pupil diameter (PD), one of the anterior segment parameters, is an important component of ophthalmological examination.

Material and methods:

Seventy-one healthy patients, 64 patients with Systemic Hypertension (HT), and 65 patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) scheduled for phacoemulsification were included in the study. PD was measured before and one month after surgery using combined Scheimpflug-Placido disk topography (Sirius, CSO Inc.). Preoperative PD values of the groups were compared. The PD of the groups was compared in the 1st month after surgery. Then, preoperative and postoperative pupil diameter values of the groups were compared. The effect of the surgery on the change in pupil diameter (effect value) in the groups was also examined.

Results:

Pre- and postoperative PD only differed significantly between the healthy and DM groups (P = .039 and P = .045, respectively). PD decreased in all three groups after phacoemulsification. Pre-and postoperative PD differed significantly in the healthy group (4.78 ± 0.94 and 3.01 ± 0.48 mm, respectively, P < .05). Pre- and postoperative PD values also differed significantly (4.69 ± 0.84 and 2.95 ± 0.42 mm, respectively, P < .05). In the DM group, Pre- and postoperative PD also differed significantly in the DM group (4.38 ± 1.08 and 2.82 ± 0.43 mm, respectively, P < .05). The effect values of PD changes differed in the healthy, DM, and HT groups (1.95, 1.41, and 2.28, respectively). Phacoemulsification was observed to have a greater effect on PD change in HT patients.

Conclusions:

PD was smaller in DM patients than in the other groups. PD decreased in all three groups after phacoemulsification. This change should be remembered when planning cataract surgery for chronic metabolic patients.
Anti-SOX1 antibodies-positive paraneoplastic neurological syndromes caused by thyroid carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Deng Yazhi , Zhang Xiaobo , Wang Lei , Lu Xuelin , Gao Yunchun , Wu Zhenkai , Zhong Zhenzhen
Published: April 2023

Rationale:

Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes (PNSs) are a group of neurological diseases caused by distant immune effects of malignant tumors, which often occur in patients with small cell lung cancer but are not prone to occur in patients with thyroid cancer. Anti-Sry-like high mobility group box (SOX)1 antibodies (abs)-associated PNSs caused by thyroid cancer are clinically rarer.

Patient concerns:

A 57-year-old Chinese male patient presented with autonomic neuropathy. A thyroid biopsy revealed the diagnosis of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. The serum anti-SOX1 abs confirmed positive.

Diagnoses:

A diagnosis of anti-SOX1 antibodies-positive PNS was made.

Interventions:

The patient received total thyroidectomy.

Outcomes:

After total thyroidectomy, the patient’s symptoms resolved quickly, and the serum anti-SOX1 abs test results was negative on re-examination.

Lessons:

Thyroid cancer can cause anti-SOX1 abs-associated PNS with only autonomic neuropathy.
The mediating effects of social support on the association between depression and life satisfaction among patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
Authors: Zhang Min-Zhe , Shi Jun-Xia , Rao Wei-Ming , Chen Rui , Yang Hong-Guang , Wu Neng-Jian , He Qi-Qiang
Published: April 2023

Patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorders in community had poor psychosocial functioning, social support, and life satisfaction. However, the interaction effects of social support and depression on life satisfaction remains unclear. Thus, we examined these associations among patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2020 in Shenzhen, China. Information on social support, depression, and life satisfaction was assessed by standardized questionnaires through a face-to-face interview. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was performed to estimate the associations of social support and depression with life satisfaction and to explore the mediation effect of social support.

A total of 293 patients aged 39.7 ± 11.1 years (males: 47.1 %) were included in this study. Social support was positively associated with high life satisfaction (explaining 7.2% of the variance), while depression was negatively associated with life satisfaction (explaining 17.8% of the variance). Furthermore, social support mediated 12.5% of the association between depression and life satisfaction.

Social support and depression were significantly associated with life satisfaction in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorders. Moreover, social support mediated the association between depression and life satisfaction in this population. Health interventions that benefit social support should be promoted to alleviate the negative impact of depression on their life satisfaction.