bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between socioeconomic status and adherence to hypertension treatment among older adults in urban and rural areas in Myanmar: a cross-sectional study using baseline data from the JAGES in Myanmar prospective cohort study
Authors: Nagamine Yuiko , Shobugawa Yugo , Sasaki Yuri , Takagi Daisuke , Fujiwara Takeo , Khin Yu Par , Nozaki Ikuma , Shirakura Yuki , Kay Thi Lwin , Poe Ei Zin , Thae Zarchibo , Win Hla Hla
Published: January 2023

Objectives

This study aims to investigate whether there is a differential association between socioeconomic status (SES) and adherence to hypertension medication among older adults in rural and urban areas in Myanmar and assess what type of SES is associated with a difference.

Design

Cross-sectional study using baseline data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study in Myanmar prospective cohort study. A multistage random sampling method was applied in each region.

Setting

An urban and a rural area in Myanmar.

Participants

A total of 1200 older adults over 60 years old in Myanmar were randomly selected in 2018 (600 each from rural and urban areas). Of them, 573 had hypertension and were eligible for the analysis (urban: 317, rural: 256).

Outcome

Adherence to hypertension medication (yes/no) is the outcome of interest. Three types of SES (wealth, education and current employment status) were the independent variables.

Results

We found that 21.5% of urban residents and 48.4% of rural residents were non-adherent in the study population. Poisson regression modelling stratified by area was performed to estimate the prevalence ratios (PRs) of not following treatment instructions. Demographic information and complications of hypertension were adjusted for in all models as possible confounders. In terms of SES, middle level of wealth compared with low level was significantly associated with poor adherence (PR 2.68, 95% CI 1.28 to 5.59) in the urban area, but education and employment status did not show similar associations. Lower education compared with middle/high school or higher was significantly associated with poor adherence in the rural area (no school: PR 3.22, 1.37–7.58; monastic: 3.42, 1.16–5.07; primary school: 2.41, 1.18–4.95), but wealth and income did not show similar associations.

Conclusions

SES and adherence to hypertension medication were differently associated among older adults in rural and urban areas in Myanmar. To ensure healthcare access to hypertension treatment for every citizen, the differential association between SES and adherence in urban/rural areas needs to be recognised.
Evaluating pain in survivors of critical illness: the correlation between the EQ-5D-5L and the Brief Pain Inventory
Authors: Docherty Christie , Shaw Martin , Henderson Philip , Quasim Tara , MacTavish Pamela , Devine Helen , O'Brien Peter , Strachan Laura , Lucie Phil , Hogg Lucy , Sim Malcolm , McPeake Joanne
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Pain is a common and debilitating symptom in survivors of critical illness. The ‘Core Outcome Set for Survivors of Acute Respiratory Failure’ proposes that the pain and discomfort question of the EuroQol 5 Dimension 5 Level (EQ-5D-5L) could be used to assess pain in this group, however, it was recognised that further research is required to evaluate how this single question compares to other more detailed pain tools. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the pain and discomfort question of the EQ-5D-5L and the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) in survivors of critical illness.

Methods

This study retrospectively analysed paired EQ-5D-5L and BPI data extracted from a prospective, multicentre study evaluating the impact of a critical care recovery programme. 172 patients who received a complex recovery intervention and 108 patients who did not receive this intervention were included. Data were available for the intervention cohort at multiple time points, namely, baseline, 3 months and 12 months. While, data were available for the usual care cohort at a single time point (12 months). We assessed the correlation between the pain and discomfort question of the EQ-5D-5L and two separate components of the BPI: severity of pain and pain interference.

Results

Correlation coefficients comparing the pain and discomfort question of the EQ-5D-5L and the BPI pain severity score ranged between 0.73 (95% CI 0.63 to 0.80) and 0.80 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.86). Correlation coefficients comparing the pain and discomfort question of the EQ-5D-5L and the BPI pain interference score ranged between 0.71 (95% CI 0.62 to 0.79) and 0.83 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.88) across the various time points.

Conclusions

The pain and discomfort question of the EQ-5D-5L correlates moderately well with a more detailed pain tool and may help to streamline assessments in survivorship studies. More in-depth tools may be of use where pain is the primary study outcome or a patient-reported concern.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on heart valve disease
Authors: Shah Benoy Nalin
Published: January 2023

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines are evidence-based recommendations for health and care in England. In late 2021, NICE published its first ever guidance on the investigation and management of adults with heart valve disease. This followed on from recent updates to the international societal practice guidelines on heart valve disease produced by the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association (in 2020) and the European Society of Cardiology and European Association for Cardiothoracic Surgery (in 2021). The purpose of the NICE guidance has significant differences from societal guidelines, as NICE guidance is designed for implementation within the UK’s taxpayer-funded National Health Service and thus must account not just for clinical effectiveness of treatments but cost-effectiveness also. This explains some of the differences between recent recommendations from these bodies, most notably in the treatment of patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis, in which NICE clearly explains that cost implications influenced their final guidance (which differs from the recently published European and North American guidelines). The aims of this review article are to provide an overview of the scope and recommendations of the NICE guideline and to compare and contrast the guidelines, highlighting reasons for differences between the guidance from professional societies and NICE and discussing the relative strengths and weaknesses of the NICE guideline.
Interest in quitting e-cigarette use by device type and smoking history in US adults
Authors: Palmer Amanda M , Rojewski Alana M , Carpenter Matthew J , Klemperer Elias M , Baker Nathaniel L , Sanford Brandon T , Toll Benjamin A
Published: January 2023

Background

The use of e-cigarettes has been increasing, especially since the introduction of ‘pod’ devices to the marketplace since 2018. Most adults who vape report interest in quitting. The present study examined level of interest in e-cigarette cessation between users with varying cigarette smoking histories and device types.

Methods

Data obtained from wave 5 (2018–2019) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health study (n=34 309). Analyses were conducted on adult current established e-cigarette users, categorised on cigarette smoking history (current, former or never) and device type (disposable, cartridge/pod, tank or mod). Participants reported if they planned to ever quit e-cigarettes, attempted to quit in the past year and attempted to quit by cutting back in the past year.

Results

Of the 2922 established e-cigarette users, 68.21% reported plans to quit vaping; 17.27% reported attempting to quit e-cigarettes in the past year; and 29.28% reported attempting to quit by cutting back in the past year. Cartridge users had higher odds of interest in quitting than tank and mod users. Disposable and cartridge users had higher odds of reporting a past year quit attempt than tank and mod users. Individuals with no smoking history had higher odds of reporting a past year quit attempt or cutting back relative to those reporting dual use (of both e-cigarettes and cigarettes) and former smoking.

Conclusions

Tobacco control should consider the type of e-cigarette device that is being used, alongside users’ cigarette smoking history, when developing interventions and other resources for vaping cessation.
Strength of partially frozen sand under triaxial compression
Authors: Liang Yawu , Beier Nicholas A. , Sego D.C.
Published: January 2023

To investigate the effect of the pore matrix (i.e., ice and unfrozen water) on the strength of partially frozen sand, a series of triaxial compression tests with internal pore water pressure (PWP) measurements were performed. Both dense and loose saline sand samples were prepared by rapidly freezing the samples and then slowly warming the samples to, and subsequently shearing at the temperature of −3 °C. Test results indicate the temperature only affects the effective cohesion, not the effective friction angle of sand. The pore ice stress was estimated using Ladanyi and Morel’s 1990 postulate on the internal stresses within frozen soil; the stress (hydrostatic) change in pore ice was reflected by an equal change in PWP in the partially frozen loose sand. Based on Ladanyi and Morel’s 1990 concept of internal confinement in frozen sand, a Mohr–Coulomb model that uses effective failure and residual friction angles from unfrozen sand to estimate the strength of partially frozen sand is presented. The proposed model reflects how the pore matrix contributes to the strength of partially frozen sand. For loose sand, the peak strength is enhanced by the internal confinement and cohesion resulting from the pore water (suction) and pore ice, respectively. For dense sand, only pore ice affects the peak strength by incorporating the internal confinement and cohesion.
Generalized 11D supergravity equations from tri-vector deformations
Authors: Bakhmatov Ilya , Çatal-Özer Aybike , Deger Nihat Sadik , Gubarev Kirill , Musaev Edvard T.
Published: January 2023

In Bakhmatov et al. (Phys. Rev. D 105(8): L081904, 2022) we presented a modification of 11-dimensional supergravity field equations which upon dimensional reduction yields generalized supergravity equations in 10-dimensions. In this paper we provide full technical details of that result which is based on SL(5) exceptional field theory. The equations are obtained by making a non-unimodular tri-vector Yang-Baxter deformation which breaks the initial local diffeomorphism symmetry in 11 dimensions down to separate coordinate transformations in external 7 and internal 4 directions. We also give some non-trivial solutions to these equations.
On the possibility of extracting part of a beam of negatively charged particles from an accelerator using a bent crystal
Authors: Kyryllin I. V. , Shul’ga N. F.
Published: January 2023

The efficiency of deflection of high-energy negatively charged particles by a bent crystal using planar channeling and stochastic deflection mechanism is compared. The comparison is carried out on the example of antiprotons with kinetic energy from 1 to 14 GeV, which will be achievable on accelerators of the Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research. The comparison showed that both deflection mechanisms make it possible to deflect a part of the antiproton beam in the specified energy range by angles of the order of several hundred microradians, which significantly exceed the critical angle of planar channeling. At the same time, the stochastic deflection mechanism makes it possible to deflect particles at much larger angles than planar channeling.
Combinatorics of Vogan diagrams for almost-Kähler manifolds
Authors: Gatti Alice
Published: January 2023

Let [Formula: see text] be a non-compact classical semisimple Lie group and let [Formula: see text] be the adjoint orbit with respect to a fixed element in [Formula: see text]. These manifolds can be equipped with an almost-Kähler structure and we provide explicit formulae for the existence of special almost-complex structures on [Formula: see text] purely in terms of the combinatorics of the associated Vogan diagram. The formulae are given separately for Lie groups whose Lie algebras are of type [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the rank of the Lie algebra.
Report on the 3rd International Workshop on Engineering and Cybersecurity of Critical Systems (EnCyCriS - 2022)
Authors: Esnoul Coralie , Colomo-Palacios Ricardo , Jee Eunkyoung , Chockalingam Sabarathinam , Eidar Simensen John , Bae Doo-Hwan
Published: January 2023

Critical Infrastructures (CIs) are vital for modern societies, covering different sectors like banking, emergency services, energy, healthcare, oil and gas, transportation, and water distribution. Over the years, CIs rely on technology for their seamless operations. Their reliable and secure operation is of supreme importance to societal welfare and a nation's economy. This paper reports on the presentation and discussions held during the 3rd International Workshop on Engineering and Cybersecurity of Critical Systems (EnCyCriS - 2022). The main aim of this EnCyCriS workshop is to gather contributions from researchers and practitioners working on challenges and solutions for engineering and cybersecurity of critical systems in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). This year´s edition has accepted and presented seven papers in addition to a keynote speech from a Principal Analyst in Information Security for Equinor ASA, Norway. This workshop was co-located with the 44th International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE - 2022), which took place on 16th May 2022.
Component Fault Diagnosability of Hierarchical Cubic Networks
Authors: Huang Yanze , Wen Kui , Lin Limei , Xu Li , Hsieh Sun-Yuan
Published: January 2023

The fault diagnosability of a network indicates the self-diagnosis ability of the network, thus it is an important measure of robustness of the network. As a neoteric feature for measuring fault diagnosability, the
r
-component diagnosability

ct
r
(G)

of a network
G
imposes the restriction that the number of components is at least
r
in the remaining network of
G
by deleting faulty set
X
, which enhances the diagnosability of
G
. In this article, we establish the
r
-component diagnosability for
n
-dimensional hierarchical cubic network

HCN
n

, and we show that, under both PMC model and MM* model, the
r
-component diagnosability of

HCN
n

is
rn
-½(
r
-1)
r
+1 for
n
≥ 2 and
1≤ r≤ n-1
. Moreover, we introduce the concepts of 0-PMC subgraph and 0-MM* subgraph of

HCN
n

. Then, we make use of 0-PMC subgraph and 0-MM* subgraph of

HCN
n

to design two algorithms under PMC model and MM* model, respectively, which are practical and efficient for component fault diagnosis of

HCN
n

. Besides, we compare the
r
-component diagnosability of

HCN
n

with the extra conditional diagnosability, diagnosability, good-neighbor diagnosability, pessimistic diagnosability, and conditional diagnosability, and we verify that the
r
-component diagnosability of

HCN
n

is higher than the other types of diagnosability.
A Dual-channel Semi-supervised Learning Framework on Graphs via Knowledge Transfer and Meta-learning
Authors: Qiao Ziyue , Wang Pengyang , Wang Pengfei , Ning Zhiyuan , Fu Yanjie , Du Yi , Zhou Yuanchun , Huang Jianqiang , Hua Xian-Sheng , Xiong Hui
Published: January 2023

This article studies the problem of semi-supervised learning on graphs, which aims to incorporate ubiquitous unlabeled knowledge (e.g., graph topology, node attributes) with few-available labeled knowledge (e.g., node class) to alleviate the scarcity issue of supervised information on node classification. While promising results are achieved, existing works for this problem usually suffer from the poor balance of generalization and fitting ability due to the heavy reliance on labels or task-agnostic unsupervised information. To address the challenge, we propose a dual-channel framework for semi-supervised learning on
G
raphs via
K
nowledge
T
ransfer between independent supervised and unsupervised embedding spaces, namely, GKT. Specifically, we devise a dual-channel framework including a supervised model for learning the label probability of nodes and an unsupervised model for extracting information from massive unlabeled graph data. A knowledge transfer head is proposed to bridge the gap between the generalization and fitting capability of the two models. We use the unsupervised information to reconstruct batch-graphs to smooth the label probability distribution on the graphs to improve the generalization of prediction. We also adaptively adjust the reconstructed graphs by encouraging the label-related connections to solidify the fitting ability. Since the optimization of the supervised channel with knowledge transfer contains that of the unsupervised channel as a constraint and vice versa, we then propose a meta-learning-based method to solve the bi-level optimization problem, which avoids the negative transfer and further improves the model’s performance. Finally, extensive experiments validate the effectiveness of our proposed framework by comparing state-of-the-art algorithms.
Spotlight Tweets: A Lens for Exploring Attention Dynamics within Online Sensemaking During Crisis Events
Authors: Zhou Kaitlyn , Wilson Tom , Starbird Kate , Spiro Emma S.
Published: January 2023

In this article, we introduce the concept of a
spotlight social media post
—a post that receives an unexpected burst of attention—and explore how such posts reveal salient aspects of online collective sensemaking and attention dynamics during a crisis event. Specifically, we examine the online conversation surrounding a false missile alert in Hawaii in January 2018. Through a mixed-methods analysis and visualizations, our research uncovers mechanisms that lead to rapid attention gains, such as
spotlighting
—when a user with existing influence confers attention by sharing others’ content with their audience. We highlight how spotlight social media posts (specifically
spotlight tweets
) are distinct from other heavily shared content and that they offer insight into previously overlooked patterns in information exchange. We additionally reveal that attention dynamics may alter the social position of spotlight post authors immediately afterward (and possibly in the long term). We argue that spotlight social media posts offer a productive window for understanding online collective sensemaking, and we discuss how this can inform social media platform design and serve as a basis of future research.
A physiologic increase in brain glucagon action alters the hepatic gluconeogenic/glycogenolytic ratio but not glucagon’s overall effect on glucose production
Authors: Edgerton Dale S. , Kraft Guillaume , Smith Marta , Farmer Ben , Williams Phillip , Cherrington Alan D.
Published: January 2023

Glucagon stimulates hepatic glucose production through its direct effects on the liver but may indirectly inhibit this process by acting on the brain. This was tested by delivering glucagon via the cerebral circulatory system. Central nervous system glucagon action reduced liver gluconeogenic flux, but glycogenolysis increased, resulting in no net change in hepatic glucose production. Surprisingly, brain glucagon also appeared to suppress lipolysis (plasma free fatty acid and glycerol levels were reduced).
Imaging neuro-urodynamics of mouse major pelvic ganglion with a micro-endoscopic approach
Authors: Berigan Benton R. , Wang Jing , Schulz David J. , Ozden Ilker
Published: January 2023

The functional activity and information processing within autonomic ganglia is mostly unknown because of technical and physical constraints in recording electrophysiological signals from these neurons in vivo. Here, we use a micro-endoscopic approach to measure in vivo functional activity patterns from a population of autonomic neurons controlling bladder function for the first time. This approach can be adapted to record activity from autonomic neurons across different organs and systems in both healthy and disease models.
Exploring the Design Practice, Trends, and Gaps of Urban Bridges in Ethiopia towards Sustainability
Authors: Hailemariam Leule M. , Nuramo Denamo A.
Published: January 2023

Bridges carrying railways, roads, and pedestrians in rural and urban regions have tremendous characteristics. The case of urban bridges is quite typical for a visual view of the complexity of the characteristics of urban Ethiopia. The existing urban environment in Ethiopia demands great attention regarding bridge infrastructure. The dynamism of urbanity depends on multiple factors such as institutional capabilities for commissioning, monitoring, and decommissioning; professional competence; and culture. The provision of urban bridges should be viewed holistically, beginning with planning and design and continuing through construction. The approach so far has been single-handed, and this creates an unbalanced delivery of the infrastructure. This article explores the existential trends and practices of urban bridge design and identifies the main challenges of practicing sustainability in the design process in Ethiopia. The research is methodically based on a qualitative approach to identify the expert opinions of professionals and designers who are currently participating in urban infrastructure design. The data were gathered through interviews, and the findings show that the practice of sustainable urban bridge design is still in its infancy, and even the concept is unclear to many professionals in the field. While the study emphasizes the importance of sustainable urban bridge provision, it also highlights challenges such as lack of awareness, weak institutional capacity and culture, and lack of mandatory sustainable codes and standards.
The Challenge of Applications of Probiotics in Gastrointestinal Diseases
Authors: Wolfe William , Xiang Ze , Yu Xi , Li Ping , Chen Hao , Yao Mingfei , Fei Yiqiu , Huang Yilun , Yin Yeshi , Xiao Hang
Published: January 2023

Gastrointestinal disease is characterized by gastrointestinal dysfunction with dysbiosis of the microbiome. Probiotics may act as biological agents in treating gastrointestinal diseases through modifying gut microbiota. However, several challenges, including safety, stress resistance, postcolonization quantification, and evaluation models, may hinder the application of probiotics in gastrointestinal diseases. This review introduces the emerging methods for delivering probiotics as well as available materials. Furthermore, we elucidated bacteriocins and their role in helping probiotics obtain a competitive advantage over other strains and challenges of large-scale application. Bacteriocins produced by probiotics also showed promising efficacy in gastrointestinal diseases including the capacity of immune stimulation, intestinal barrier protection, and cytotoxicity against intestinal tumorigenesis. For the quantification of probiotics in complex microbiomes and evaluation methods of probiotic encapsulated delivery systems, recent fluorescent labeling technology and various in vitro and in vivo models were also reviewed. Given the widespread use of probiotic agents in the microecological therapy of gastrointestinal diseases, further understanding of the multiple challenges of probiotic application and the updated methods to improve the colonization and evaluation system of probiotics is of great significance for probiotics as live biotherapeutics.
Research on the Stress and Deformation Characteristics of Circular Foundation Pit during Excavation in Sand Soil
Authors: Gao Xuhe , Tian Weiping , Li Jiachun , Qi Hongliang , Li Shiyang , Zhang Zhipei
Published: January 2023

The stress and deformation response characteristics of the support structure in the process of excavation and support of circular sand foundation pit are complex. The existing research results lack a general analysis method for the mutual check between the field monitoring data and the numerical simulation results. This research relies on the excavation and support project of a circular foundation pit in the sandy soil layer of the west anchorage of Humen Second Bridge. The force and deformation characteristics of foundation pit soil are monitored and structure is supported during construction. A new method for checking simulation parameters based on the excursion monitoring data of the diaphragm wall is proposed. The modeling and calculation theory of foundation pit excavation and support process is established. The superposition calculation of pore water pressure is used to realize the foundation pit seepage-stress coupling. The effects of steady-state seepage conditions on the equivalent strain of foundation pit soil, the displacement of the diaphragm wall, and the axial force of the lining are compared and analyzed. The stress and deformation mechanism of the soil layer and supporting structure during the excavation and support of a circular foundation pit in the sand layer is obtained.
Analysis of Two-Grid Characteristic Finite Element Methods for Convection-Diffusion Equations
Authors: Wang Keyan , Hu Boxia
Published: January 2023

In this paper, two efficient two-grid algorithms for the convection-diffusion problem with a modified characteristic finite element method are studied. We present an optimal error estimate in

L

p

-norm for the characteristic finite element method unconditionally, while all previous works require certain time-step restrictions. To linearize the characteristic method equations, two-grid algorithms based on the Newton iteration approach and the correction method are applied. The error estimate and the convergence result of the two-grid method are derived in detail. It is shown that the coarse space can be extremely coarse and achieve asymptotically optimal approximations as long as the mesh sizes

H
=
O

h

1
/
3

in the first algorithm and

H
=
O

h

1
/
4

in the second algorithm, respectively. Finally, two numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the theoretical analysis.
A Rare Case of Persistent Bacteremia: Leadless Micra Pacemaker Endocarditis
Authors: Patel Himax , Harrell Sean , Hreibe Haitham , Sharkawi Musa , AlJaroudi Wael
Published: January 2023

Leadless pacing systems have revolutionized the field of electrophysiology given its low complication rates and almost non-existent rate of infections compared with traditional pacemakers. These devices boast resistance to infections given its unique features; however, as described in this report, device-related infection from these leadless devices is still possible. In patients with leadless pacing system that is persistently bacteremic in the future, evaluation of the device with transesophageal echocardiogram or intracardiac echocardiography should be performed, and if vegetation is noted on the device, device extraction should highly be considered, along with empiric intravenous antibiotics. Lastly, new leadless device should not be re-implanted within 2 weeks of the removal of the infected device to prevent seeding of the new device.
Are There Specific Cancer Stem Cell Markers?
Authors: Lan Linxiang , Behrens Axel
Published: January 2023

The cancer stem cell (CSC) model states that heterogeneous tumor cell populations are organized in a hierarchical manner, with a small population of CSCs at the apex. These CSCs are capable of self-renewal and giving rise to other cancer cell populations, conceptually analogous to the function of normal adult stem cells present in almost all organs. However, there has been significant controversy regarding the existence and identification of CSCs. We argue that technical differences in experimentation and CSC assays, CSC niche-dependency and plasticity, and CSC heterogeneity itself may explain some of the differences observed.
Identification of Lutheran Blood Groups and Genetic Variants within KLF1 among Thai Blood Donors
Authors: Intharanut Kamphon , Khumsuk Piyathida , Nathalang Oytip
Published: January 2023

Background: Lua and Lub are inherited as codominant allelic characters resulting from a single nucleotide variant (SNV) of the basal cell adhesion molecule (BCAM) gene. Red cells of the dominantly inherited suppressor of the Lutheran antigens In(Lu) phenotypically appear as Lu(a−b–) by the haemagglutination test. In(Lu) resulted from heterozygosity for mutations within the erythroid-specific Krüppel-like factor 1 (KLF1) gene. This study aimed to determine the frequency of the Lu(a) and Lu(b) phenotypes and genotypes and genetic variants of the distinct In(Lu) among Thai blood donors. Material and Methods: Samples from 334 Thai donors were phenotyped with anti-Lua and anti-Lub. These DNA samples and an additional 1,370 donor DNA samples with unknown Lu(a)/Lu(b) phenotypes were genotyped using an in-house PCR-SSP. In the case of the three Lu(a–b–) donors, the BCAM and KLF1 genes were analysed by PCR and sequencing. Results: A total of 331 of the 334 donors were Lu(a–b+), while the other observed phenotype, appearing as Lu(a–b–), was found among three donors. Of those three Lu(a–b–) donors with the LU*02/02 genotype, we identified KLF1 variant alleles, consisting of two variants: c.[304T>C, 1001C>G] and c.[304T>C, 519_525dupCGGCGCC], leading to the In(Lu) phenotype, and one homozygous variant (c.304T>C) mutation. Also, only one Thai donor was genotyped as LU*01/02, confirmed by serology test and DNA sequencing. Conclusion: In this study, we identified KLF1 variants to be included in Lutheran typing analysis in Thai populations. Therefore, the application of genotyping and phenotyping methods has simultaneously been in use to screen and confirm the rare Lu(a+) and In(Lu) phenotypes.
Abdominal Obesity, Excessive Adiposity, and the Taq1B CETP Variant Are Positively Associated with Serum Lipid Levels in Mexican Women
Authors: Perez-Robles Mariana , Campos-Perez Wendy , Torres-Vanegas Joel , Rodriguez-Reyes Sarai Citlalic , Rivera-Valdés Juan José , Martínez-Lopez Erika
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Obesity is a prevalent multifactorial disease whose main complication is dyslipidemia. Serum lipid levels also depend on genetic factors including the Taq1B variant of the CETP gene, which is suggested to be influenced by environmental factors and adiposity. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of the Taq1B CETP variant on serum lipid levels associated with anthropometrical variables. Methods: 165 women from western Mexico were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Weight and body fat were measured by bioimpedance and waist circumference with a measuring tape. Serum lipid levels were determined by dry chemistry. The Taq1B CETP variant was analyzed by allelic discrimination. Results: Women with abdominal obesity and the B1B2/B2B2 genotype had significantly higher total cholesterol levels (195.17 [185.95–204.39] vs. 183 mg/dL [169.83–196.16], p = 0.007) and low density lipoprotein (118.84 [110.65–127.03] vs. 113.84 mg/dL [102.37–125.31], p = 0.037) than carriers of the B1B1 genotype. Likewise, subjects with excessive adiposity and the B1B2/B2B2 genotype showed significantly higher total cholesterol levels (195.05 [186.04–204.06] vs. 182.40 mg/dL [169.03–195.76], p = 0.003) than those with the B1B1 genotype. Conclusion: Women with abdominal obesity or excessive adiposity, who are also carriers of the B1B2/B2B2 genotype, have higher serum lipid levels than women with the B1B1 genotype.
Oligohydramnios or Anhydramnios and Ultrasonically Normal Renal Echotexture Secondary to Autosomal Recessive Renal Tubular Dysgenesis: An Important Consideration in the Prenatal Setting
Authors: Banuelos Remi , Mallawaarachchi Amali , Doyle Helen , Mogra Ritu
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Autosomal recessive renal tubular dysgenesis (ARRTD) is a rare disorder of renal tubular development. ARRTD is a severe condition with high risk of fetal demise and early neonatal death, with only limited case reports of survival over 2 years [Clin Kidney J. 2012 Feb 1;5(1):56–8]. Prenatal diagnosis of ARRTD is challenging, and diagnosis has only previously been confirmed after postnatal or post-mortem investigation. Case: To the best of our knowledge, we describe the first reported case of utilizing targeted genetic testing on the chorionic villous sample (CVS) to identify a homozygous variant in the angiotensinogen (AGT) gene. Discussion: By substantiating the diagnosis of ARRTD prenatally, we allow timely and appropriate counseling during pregnancy.
Presentation, Diagnosis, and Follow-Up Characteristics of 17α-Hydroxylase Deficiency Cases with Exon 1–6 Deletion (Founder Mutation) in the CYP17A1Gene: 20-Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: Dundar Ismail , Akinci Aysehan , Camtosun Emine , Ciftci Nurdan , Kayas Leman
Published: January 2023

Context: 17α-Hydroxylase/17,20-lyase deficiency (17OHD) is characterized by decreased sex steroids and cortisol synthesis, as well as an increased mineralocorticoid effect. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical, biochemical, and molecular characteristics of patients with 17OHD and to discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up process. Methods: Age, symptoms, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and hormonal, biochemical, and chromosomal analysis results of 13 patients diagnosed with 17OHD between 2003 and 2022 were recorded at admission and during follow-up. Whole gene next-generation sequencing was performed for the CYP17A1 gene. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification was used to detect deletions in patients without point mutations in CYP17A1. Results: The median age at diagnosis was 14.0 (3.5–16.8) years. Nine of 13 patients (69.2%) had 46,XY karyotypes. All patients were phenotypically female and were raised as girls. The most common reasons for admission were the absence of puberty and amenorrhea (n = 8, 61.5%), followed by hypertension (n = 3, 23.0%), and family screening (n = 2, 15.3%). At the time of diagnosis, hypertension was detected in 10 (76.9%) patients, and 11 (84.6%) patients had hypokalemia. Conclusions: 17OHD should be considered in patients with pubertal delay/primary amenorrhea, hypertension, and hypokalemia. Adrenal function should be included in the clinical study of hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, after excluding Turner syndrome, in all 46,XX females. Deletion in the CYP17A1 gene, including exons 1–6, is the founder mutation for Turkey’s east and southeast regions.
Ousadia e alegria: sportswashing e soft power do Catar através do futebol
Authors: Almeida Rodrigo Accioli , Pereira André dos Santos Alonso
Published: January 2023

A Copa do Mundo de Futebol de 2022, organizada pela Federação Internacional de Football Association (FIFA), sediada no Catar, representa o ápice de uma estratégia empreendida pelo pequeno país do Golfo Pérsico para aumentar sua relevância dentro da comunidade internacional, conferindo maior legitimidade, segurança e influência ao regime. Parte desta estratégia também incluiu a compra do clube francês Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) e a construção de torná-lo uma potência futebolística. O financiamento dessas empreitadas é possível graças à riqueza obtida pelo Catar através da exploração de suas reservas de hidrocarbonetos. Essencialmente, o Catar usa sua renda petrolífera para construir um soft power que projete o país no cenário internacional. O presente artigo busca entender, através de análises dos investimentos do governo catariano no esporte, como uma nação, diminuta e dependente de uma única atividade econômica, consegue instrumentalizar o futebol como parte de uma estratégia que solidifique o país como uma nação reconhecida, além de buscar compreender o uso geopolítico do futebol.
Brain Areas Critical for Picture Naming: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Lesion-Symptom Mapping Studies
Authors: Piai Vitória , Eikelboom Dilys
Published: January 2023

Lesion-symptom mapping (LSM) studies have revealed brain areas critical for naming, typically finding significant associations between damage to left temporal, inferior parietal, and inferior fontal regions and impoverished naming performance. However, specific subregions found in the available literature vary. Hence, the aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of published lesion-based findings, obtained from studies with unique cohorts investigating brain areas critical for accuracy in naming in stroke patients at least 1 month post-onset. An anatomic likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis of these LSM studies was performed. Ten papers entered the ALE meta-analysis, with similar lesion coverage over left temporal and left inferior frontal areas. This small number is a major limitation of the present study. Clusters were found in left anterior temporal lobe, posterior temporal lobe extending into inferior parietal areas, in line with the arcuate fasciculus, and in pre- and postcentral gyri and middle frontal gyrus. No clusters were found in left inferior frontal gyrus. These results were further substantiated by examining five naming studies that investigated performance beyond global accuracy, corroborating the ALE meta-analysis results. The present review and meta-analysis highlight the involvement of left temporal and inferior parietal cortices in naming, and of mid to posterior portions of the temporal lobe in particular in conceptual-lexical retrieval for speaking.
Delayed Impacts of ENSO on the Frequency of Summer Extreme Hot Days in the Asian Monsoon Region. Part II: Implication for Seasonal Prediction
Authors: Lu Xinyu , Yuan Chaoxia , Luo Jing-Jia , Yamagata Toshio
Published: January 2023

Understanding and predicting extreme weather and climate are ultimately important for adaptation and resilience. Here, we assess the prediction skills of frequency of summer extreme hot days (SEHDs) in the Asian monsoon region (AMR) by using the 1981–2014 hindcasts of the Predictive Ocean Atmosphere Model for Australia version 2 (POAMA-2) subseasonal-to-seasonal prediction system. Generally, the good prediction skills of SEHD frequency appear in the southern AMR south of 30°N including the Indian subcontinent, Indo-China peninsula, and the Philippines; the anomaly correlation coefficients between the observed and predicted region-mean SEHD anomalies are 0.72, 0.72, 0.70, 0.60, 0.61, and 0.61 at 1–6 months lead, respectively, all statistically significant at the 99.9% confidence level. The high prediction skills in POAMA-2 are due to its capacity on reproducing the observed delayed ENSO impacts on the large-scale atmospheric circulation, the seasonal surface air temperature, and thus the SEHD frequency in the southern AMR via provoking the Indo–western Pacific Ocean capacitor effect. Since POAMA-2 only provides the prediction at most half a year in advance, we also conduct the hindcasts in the SINTEX-F that can reproduce well the robust ENSO–SEHD relationship and has high prediction skill of ENSO itself. Results show that skillful prediction of the region-mean SEHD frequency can be up to 14 months in advance. These results are complementary to Part I of this study that ENSO can impact the SEHDs in the AMR and provide the sources of predictability.
The laboratory investigation of diabetes insipidus: A review
Authors: Boot Christopher
Published: January 2023

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a group of disorders that lead to inappropriate production of large volumes of dilute urine. The three main forms are central DI (CDI), nephrogenic DI (NDI) and primary polydipsia (PP). Differentiating CDI/NDI from PP is important as patients with true DI are at risk of severe dehydration without treatment. Biochemical testing is key in the diagnosis of DI. The indirect water deprivation test (WDT) is commonly used in the investigation of DI but has drawbacks including being cumbersome and sometimes producing equivocal results. Direct measurement of AVP has theoretical advantages but has generally only been used in specialist centres. Disadvantages include the requirement to measure AVP under hypertonic stimulation and pre-analytical/analytical challenges. Copeptin (CT-proAVP) is a proxy marker for AVP that is more stable, easier to measure and has been studied more widely in recent years. Historically, the evidence supporting the diagnostic performance of these tests has been relatively poor, being based on a few small, usually single-centre studies. However more recent, well-designed prospective studies are improving the evidence base for investigation of DI. These studies have focused on the utility of copeptin measurements during stimulation tests. There is evidence that measurement of copeptin under stimulation offers improved diagnostic performance compared to the WDT. There is currently a lack of systematic, evidence-based guidelines on the diagnosis of DI, but as the quality of the evidence defining the diagnostic performance of tests for DI continues to improve, a clearer consensus on the optimal approach should become achievable.
A Clinically Significant Difference on the COPM: A Review
Authors: McColl Mary Ann , Denis Celine Boyer , Douglas Kate-Lin , Gilmour Justin , Haveman Nicole , Petersen Meaghan , Presswell Brittany , Law Mary
Published: January 2023

Background. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) assists occupational therapists to identify occupational performance problems using a client-centred approach. Since its first publication in 1991, there has been abundant evidence of the ability of the COPM to detect a statistically significant difference as an outcome measure. There has also been a tacit understanding that a difference of 2 points from pre-test to post-test on either Performance or Satisfaction COPM score represents a clinically significant difference. There is however, some confusion about the origins of this claim. Purpose. To ascertain empirical evidence for the claim that a clinically significant difference is a change score ≥2 points. Method. We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature (1991–2020) for intervention studies using the COPM as an outcome measure and examined intervention type and change scores. Findings. One hundred studies were identified. The COPM was used to assess effectiveness of eight types of occupational therapy interventions. The common belief, however, was not empirically supported that clinical significance can be asserted on the basis of a two-point change in COPM scores. Implications. Further research is needed to test alternative approaches to asserting clinical significance or a minimal clinically important difference.
Sustainable jute fiber reinforced polylactic acid composite: Thermochemical and thermomechanical characteristics
Authors: Saeed Usman , Taimoor Aqeel Ahmad , Rathur Sami Ullah , Alhumade Hesham , AlTuraif Hamad , Bamufleh Hisham S , Siddiqui Ehtisham , Al-Zaitone Belal
Published: January 2023

The necessity of utilizing biodegradable and naturally sourced materials is rising all over the world. The preferred composite today are mostly sustainable but compatibility issues between the matrix and fiber still requires further investigation. The study presents development of Jute fiber (JF) reinforced Polylactic acid (PLA) composite with Fusabond (FB) as an interfacial modifier by using extrusion. The addition of interfacial modifier enhanced the thermomechanical and thermochemical properties of resultant composite. The improvement in elastic modulus and tensile strength is evident when 30%JF with 3%FB was utilized. The DMA result shows that the addition of Fusabond as interfacial modifier in jute fiber reinforced polylactic acid composite improves the storage modulus and enhances the toughness by reducing tanδ peak. Furthermore, SEM micrograph demonstrates the improvement in interfacial suitability between jute fiber and polylactic acid matrix when Fusabond is added. The X-ray tomography result shows when jute fiber content is 30% in PLA matrix higher degree of anisotropy is achieved which is 29%.
Student Engagement with Written Feedback: Critical Issues and Way Forward
Authors: Mao Zhicheng , Lee Icy
Published: January 2023

Although a surfeit of research has investigated the technicality and efficacy of feedback, much less attention has been directed towards student engagement with written feedback. In second-language writing scholarship, student engagement is considered the linchpin that connects feedback provision with learning outcomes and is crucial for feedback to be effective. This article aims to provide a critical review of empirical research on student engagement with written feedback on second-language writing, as well as suggestions for future studies and classroom practice. Utilizing systematic and explicit methods to identify, select and critically appraise relevant research, the article provides a synthesis of research findings concerning: (a) the ways second-language students engage with written feedback; (b) factors that influence student engagement with written feedback; and (c) impact of pedagogical activities on student engagement with written feedback. Based on the reviewed evidence, this study also outlines several areas for future research and provides pedagogical recommendations for second-language teachers. By synthesizing empirical findings on student engagement with written feedback and distilling their implications, the article advances existing knowledge on this under-researched yet important topic and suggests implications that could inform new avenues of research and pedagogical practice.
Evolutionary analysis and expression profiling of the HSP70 gene family in response to abiotic stresses in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Vu Nam Tuan , Nguyen Ngoc Bich Thi , Ha Hanh Hong , Nguyen Linh Nhat , Luu Ly Han , Dao Ha Quang , Vu Trinh Thi , Huynh Hue Thu Thi , Le Hien Thu Thi
Published: January 2023

Heat shock protein 70 ( HSP70) genes play essential roles in guarding plants against abiotic stresses, including heat, drought, and salt. In this study, the SlHSP70 gene family in tomatoes has been characterized using bioinformatic tools. 25 putative SlHSP70 genes in the tomato genome were found and classified into five subfamilies, with multi-subcellular localizations. Twelve pairs of gene duplications were identified, and segmental events were determined as the main factor for the gene family expansion. Based on public RNA-seq data, gene expression analysis identified the majority of genes expressed in the examined organelles. Further RNA-seq analysis and then quantitative RT-PCR validation showed that many SlHSP70 members are responsible for cellular feedback to heat, drought, and salt treatments, in which, at least five genes might be potential key players in the stress response. Our results provided a thorough overview of the SlHSP70 gene family in the tomato, which may be useful for the evolutionary and functional analysis of SlHSP70 under abiotic stress conditions.