bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Before the Nation-State: Civilizations, World Orders, and the Origins of Global International Relations
Authors: Acharya Amitav
Published: October 2023

The dominant perspectives on International Relations (IR) focus on the rise of the Western civilization and the global expansion of the European Westphalian system as their starting point. This leads to a narrow Eurocentric understanding of IR that obscures the role and contribution of other civilizations to the evolution of world order. However, during the last 5000 years, many civilizations have risen, fallen, and survived. This essay focuses on five world orders that made their mark before the “rise of the West” or the advent of European colonialism around roughly the 16th century AD: Near Eastern, Indian, Chinese, Islamic, and Indian Oceanic. A study of classical civilizations and world orders can help IR scholars to more fully engage history and reshape the study of IR theories and concepts in several ways. It helps us to understand, and if necessary, challenge, the dominance of certain key ideas that claim to be universal and have been taken for granted as such. Moreover, studying IR from a historical–civilizational perspective opens the door to understanding both material and ideational relationships among states and societies. It also encourages a shift in IR thinking from the conventional state-centric category of the “international system” to the broader framing of world order.
Androgen Excess and Deficiency: Analytical and Diagnostic Approaches
Authors: Heijboer Annemieke C , Hannema Sabine E
Published: October 2023

Background

Androgens are synthesized from cholesterol through sequential conversions by enzymes in the adrenal glands and gonads. Serum levels of androgens change during the different phases of life and regulate important developmental and maturational processes. Androgen excess or deficiency can therefore present at various ages in various ways.

Content

The diagnostic approach for atypical genitalia, premature pubarche, delayed pubertal onset or progression, and hirsutism or virilization, including measurement of androgens (testosterone, androstenedione, 17-OHprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and dihydrotestosterone) is discussed in the current review. Androgens can be measured in serum, saliva, urine, or dried blood spots. Techniques to measure androgens, including immunoassays and LC–MS, have their own advantages and pitfalls. In addition, pre- and postanalytical issues are important when measuring androgens.

During clinical interpretation of androgen measurements, it is important to take preanalytical circumstances, such as time of blood withdrawal, into account. As immunoassays have major drawbacks, especially in samples from women and neonates, concentrations measured using these assays should be interpreted with care. Reference intervals can only be used in relation to the measurement technique and the standardization of the assay. In the near future, new androgens will probably be added to the current repertoire to further improve the diagnosis and follow-up of androgen excess or deficiency.
Paediatric and adolescent ectopic Cushing's syndrome: systematic review
Authors: Yami Channaiah Chethan , Karlekar Manjiri , Sarathi Vijaya , Lila Anurag Ranjan , Ravindra Shruthi , Badhe Padma Vikram , Malhotra Gaurav , Memon Saba Samad , Patil Virendra Ashokrao , Pramesh C S , Bandgar Tushar
Published: October 2023

Objective

The data on clinical, biochemical, radiological characteristics, and outcomes in paediatric ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone syndrome (EAS) are limited owing to rarity of the condition. We report three new cases and perform a systematic review of paediatric EAS.

Design and Method

Case records of paediatric and adolescent EAS patient's ≤20 years presenting at our centre between 1997 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed, and a systematic review of the literature published between January 1970 and December 2022 was performed.

Results

A total of 161 patients including 3 new patients from our centre were identified. Bronchial neuroendocrine tumours (NET) (28.5%), thymic NET (22.9%), primitive cell-derived tumours (18.6%), and gastro-entero-pancreatic-NET (13.7%) were the common causes. Primitive cell-derived tumours were the most common in the first decade (24/45, 53.4%) and were the largest (82 [60-100] mm), whereas bronchial NETs predominated during the second decade (42/116, 36.2%) and were the smallest (15 [10-25] mm). Computed tomography localized 92.9% (118/127) of paediatric EAS patients. Immediate postoperative remission was attained in 77.9% (88/113) patients, whereas 30.4% (24/79) relapsed over a median (IQR) period of 13 (8-36) months. Over a median (IQR) follow-up of 2 (0.6-4.6) years, 31.4% of patients died. The median survival was higher in bronchial NET than in other tumour groups. Distant metastasis and tumour size were independent negative predictors of survival.

Conclusions

Aetiological profile of paediatric and adolescent EAS is distinct from that of adults. Bronchial NETs have the best long-term survival, whereas distant metastasis and tumour size predict poor survival.
Are multi-detector computed tomography and cone-beam computed tomography exams and software accurate to measure the upper airway? A systematic review
Authors: Templier Laura , Rossi Cecilia , Lagravère Vich Manuel , Fernández Pujol Ramón , Muwanguzi Michelle , Gianoni-Capenakas Silvia
Published: October 2023

Background

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has several applications in various fields of dental medicine such as diagnosis and treatment planning. When compared to computed tomography (CT), CBCT’s radiation exposure dose is decreased by 3%–20%. However, CBCT produces more scattered signals and may present poorer image quality when compared to medical CT.

Objectives

To review the findings regarding the accuracy of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and CBCT and to compare the different software programs that segment the upper airway.

Search methods

Three databases (PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science) were searched for articles and a manual search was performed.

Selection criteria

The inclusion criteria were defined following the PICO framework: P—any patient with a CBCT or CT; I—dimensional evaluation of the upper airway using MDCT or CBCT; C—phantoms; O—the primary outcome was MDCT and CBCT accuracy, the secondary outcome was the evaluation and comparison of software programs used to segment the upper airway.

Data collection and analysis

Articles that met eligibility criteria were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program Checklist.

Results

Among the 16 eligible studies, 6 articles referred to the accuracy of MDCTs or CBCTs and 10 to the accuracy of the software. Most articles were qualified as high quality.

Conclusions

MDCT and CBCT scans’ accuracy in upper airway dimensional measurements depends on machine brand, parameters, and segmentation technique. Regarding the segmentation technique, 12 programs were studied. Most either underestimated or overestimated upper airway measurements. In particular, OnDemand3D and INVIVO showed poor accuracy. On the contrary, Invesalius, and MIMICS were accurate in assessing nasal cavities when using an interactive threshold. However, results varied due to methodological differences among the studies. Finally, fully automatic segmentation based on artificial intelligence may represent the future of airway segmentation because it is faster and seems to be accurate. However, further studies are necessary.

Registration

This study was registered in Prospero (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) with the ID number CRD42022373998.
Assessment of late gadolinium enhancement in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy improves risk stratification based on current guidelines
Authors: Wang Jiaxin , Yang Shujuan , Ma Xuan , Zhao Kankan , Yang Kai , Yu Shiqin , Yin Gang , Dong Zhixiang , Song Yanyan , Cui Chen , Li Jinghui , Wang Chuangshi , Hao Jun , Lu Minjie , Chen Xiuyu , Zhao Shihua
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Identifying patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) who are candidates for implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation in primary prevention for sudden cardiac death (SCD) is crucial. The aim of this study was to externally validate the 2022 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) model and other guideline-based ICD class of recommendation (ICD-COR) models and explore the utility of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in further risk stratification.

Methods

Seven hundred and seventy-four consecutive patients who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging were retrospectively enrolled.

Results

Forty-six (5.9%) patients reached the SCD-related endpoint during 7.4 ± 2.5 years of follow-up. Patients suffering from SCD had higher ESC Risk-SCD score (4.3 ± 2.4% vs. 2.8 ± 2.1%, P < .001) and LGE extent (13.7 ± 9.4% vs. 4.9 ± 6.6%, P < .001). Compared with the 2014 ESC model, the 2022 ESC model showed increased area under the curve (.76 vs. .63), sensitivity (76.1% vs. 43.5%), positive predictive value (16.8% vs. 13.6%), and negative predictive value (98.1% vs. 95.9%). The C-statistics for SCD prediction of 2011 American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA), 2014 ESC, 2020 AHA/ACC, and 2022 ESC models were .68, .64, .76 and .78, respectively. Furthermore, in patients without extensive LGE, LGE ≥5% was responsible for seven-fold SCD risk after multivariable adjustment. Whether in ICD-COR II or ICD-COR III, patients with LGE ≥5% and <15% showed significantly worse prognosis than those with LGE <5% (all P < .001).

Conclusions

The 2022 ESC model performed better than the 2014 ESC model with especially improved sensitivity. LGE enabled further risk stratification based on current guidelines.
Paid care among older adults with long-term care needs declined in the first year of COVID-19 while families stepped in
Authors: Truskinovsky Yulya , Wiemers Emily E
Published: October 2023

Separate strands of research have documented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes and among paid and family caregivers, yet there is little evidence connecting changes in the residential decisions of older adults with the provision of paid and family care, limiting our ability to identify potential substitutions and gaps in care. Using the 2020 wave of the Health and Retirement Study linked to county-level COVID-19 mortality rates, we found that, among older adults with long-term care needs, higher county-level mortality rates were associated with a decline in nursing home residence and an increase in co-residence with adult children. These changes were coupled with a decline in the likelihood of receiving paid care and in the number of paid caregivers and an increase in the hours of unpaid care received. This analysis documents a reduction in nursing home residence and paid care during the first year of the pandemic and shows that families filled some of the resulting care gaps. Policymaking around long-term care should consider whether declines in the use of paid care are permanent and how they will affect the health of older Americans and their caregivers over the next decade.
Establishing a framework for the ethical and legal use of web scrapers by cybercrime and cybersecurity researchers: learnings from a systematic review of Australian research
Authors: Logos Katie , Brewer Russell , Langos Colette , Westlake Bryce
Published: October 2023

The Internet has become an increasingly attractive location for collecting data about cyber threats, driven by the abundance of quality data available and accessible online. As such, researchers and practitioners have turned to automated data collection technologies (ADCT), including ‘web crawlers’ and ‘web scrapers’, to study these threats. The rapid proliferation of ADCT has meant directions for their ethical and legal operation have been slow to adapt, with no clear guidelines regulating their use for research. This article identifies the relevant ethical and legal frameworks guiding the deployment of ADCT in Australia for cybersecurity research. This is accomplished through a systematic review of research within this context, coupled with ethical and jurisprudential analysis. We argue that the use of ADCT can be both ethical and legal, but only where mitigating measures are implemented. We provide a series of practical directions to guide researchers and practitioners when navigating this novel terrain.
Modified beluga whale optimization with multi-strategies for solving engineering problems
Authors: Jia Heming , Wen Qixian , Wu Di , Wang Zhuo , Wang Yuhao , Wen Changsheng , Abualigah Laith
Published: October 2023

The beluga whale optimization (BWO) algorithm is a recently proposed metaheuristic optimization algorithm that simulates three behaviors: beluga whales interacting in pairs to perform mirror swimming, population sharing information to cooperate in predation, and whale fall. However, the optimization performance of the BWO algorithm still needs to be improved to enhance its practicality. This paper proposes a modified beluga whale optimization (MBWO) with a multi-strategy. It was inspired by beluga whales’ two behaviors: group gathering for foraging and searching for new habitats in long-distance migration. This paper proposes a group aggregation strategy (GAs) and a migration strategy (Ms). The GAs can improve the local development ability of the algorithm and accelerate the overall rate of convergence through the group aggregation fine search; the Ms randomly moves towards the periphery of the population, enhancing the ability to jump out of local optima. In order to verify the optimization ability of MBWO, this article conducted comprehensive testing on MBWO using 23 benchmark functions, IEEE CEC2014, and IEEE CEC2021. The experimental results indicate that MBWO has a strong optimization ability. This paper also tests MBWO’s ability to solve practical engineering optimization problems through five practical engineering problems. The final results prove the effectiveness of MBWO in solving practical engineering optimization problems.
Protecting the Habitats of Endangered Species Through Environmental Public Interest Litigation in China: Lessons Learned from Peafowl Versus the Dam
Authors: Chu Juan
Published: October 2023

Green Peafowl stands as a landmark lawsuit in China where environmental NGOs successfully halted a project threatening habitat of endangered species. By examining this case, this analysis evaluates the promise and limitations of China’s civil environmental public interest litigation (EPIL) in protecting habitat. Under civil EPIL’s broad and flexible framework, environmental NGOs can convince the courts that a government-approved project would destroy the ‘biological habitat’ for endangered species and hold project developers accountable. By arguing that the environmental impact assessment (EIA) institution is jointly liable by preparing a flawed report, environmental NGOs can also use civil EPIL as an alternative avenue to challenge the quality of an approved EIA report. However, the timing of judicial intervention, uncertainties of litigation outcomes, the scope of protection, and the court’s attitude towards EIA claims limit the effectiveness of civil EPIL. This analysis highlights the need to address regulatory failures revealed by Green Peafowl.
Photometric redshift estimation for gamma-ray bursts from the early Universe
Authors: Fausey H M , van der Horst A J , White N E , Seiffert M , Willems P , Young E T , Kann D A , Ghirlanda G , Salvaterra R , Tanvir N R , Levan A , Moss M , Chang T-C , Fruchter A , Guiriec S , Hartmann D H , Kouveliotou C , Granot J , Lidz A
Published: October 2023

Future detection of high-redshift gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) will be an important tool for studying the early Universe. Fast and accurate redshift estimation for detected GRBs is key for encouraging rapid follow-up observations by ground- and space-based telescopes. Low-redshift dusty interlopers pose the biggest challenge for GRB redshift estimation using broad photometric bands, as their high extinction can mimic a high-redshift GRB. To assess false alarms of high-redshift GRB photometric measurements, we simulate and fit a variety of GRBs using phozzy, a simulation code developed to estimate GRB photometric redshifts, and test the ability to distinguish between high- and low-redshift GRBs when using simultaneously observed photometric bands. We run the code with the wavelength bands and instrument parameters for the Photo-z Infrared Telescope (PIRT), an instrument designed for the Gamow mission concept. We explore various distributions of host galaxy extinction as a function of redshift, and their effect on the completeness and purity of a high-redshift GRB search with the PIRT. We find that for assumptions based on current observations, the completeness and purity range from ∼82 to 88 per cent and from ∼84 to $\gt 99~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$, respectively. For the priors optimized to reduce false positives, only $\sim 0.6~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of low-redshift GRBs will be mistaken as a high-redshift one, corresponding to ∼1 false alarm per 500 detected GRBs.
Marginal post-processing of Bayesian inference products with normalizing flows and kernel density estimators
Authors: Bevins Harry T J , Handley William J , Lemos Pablo , Sims Peter H , de Lera Acedo Eloy , Fialkov Anastasia , Alsing Justin
Published: October 2023

Bayesian analysis has become an indispensable tool across many different cosmological fields, including the study of gravitational waves, the cosmic microwave background, and the 21-cm signal from the Cosmic Dawn, among other phenomena. The method provides a way to fit complex models to data describing key cosmological and astrophysical signals and a whole host of contaminating signals and instrumental effects modelled with ‘nuisance parameters’. In this paper, we summarize a method that uses masked autoregressive flows and kernel density estimators to learn marginal posterior densities corresponding to core science parameters. We find that the marginal or ‘nuisance-free’ posteriors and the associated likelihoods have an abundance of applications, including the calculation of previously intractable marginal Kullback–Leibler divergences and marginal Bayesian model dimensionalities, likelihood emulation, and prior emulation. We demonstrate each application using toy examples, examples from the field of 21-cm cosmology, and samples from the Dark Energy Survey. We discuss how marginal summary statistics like the Kullback–Leibler divergences and Bayesian model dimensionalities can be used to examine the constraining power of different experiments and how we can perform efficient joint analysis by taking advantage of marginal prior and likelihood emulators. We package our multipurpose code up in the pip-installable code margarine for use in the wider scientific community.
The topology and polarization of subbeams associated with the drifting subpulse emission of pulsar B0943+10 – VII. Analysis of transitional intervals in the mode-switching process
Authors: Logvinenko S V , Rankin Joanna M , Suleymanova S A
Published: October 2023

We report a study of the transitional intervals between pulsar B0943+10’s two primary Q and B emission modes using Arecibo 327-MHz observations. The goal of this study was to detect signs of a ‘transitional’ mode at 327 MHz, discovered recently at lower frequencies. We have found subpulse drift and profile form patterns at 327 MHz similar to those identified at lower frequencies in the Q-to-B mode transition process. Pulse fading during about 15 stellar rotations preceding the appearance of subpulse drift was observed as well. Another part of the work is devoted to a detailed study of the pulse polarization variations in the main modes. A complex behaviour of the linear polarization percentage (LPP) of the dominant first component of the average profile with B-mode age has been found: during the first 4 h, the LPP continuously increases from 5 to 40 per cent, and over the next 1.5 h gradually decreases down to 30 per cent until the subsequent onset of the Q mode. In contrast, the LPP of the second component does not change over the B-mode lifetime, remaining at the level of 22 per cent. A non-instantaneous decrease in the LPP was detected at Q-mode onset. No systematic change of the LPP of the averaged Q-mode pulses over several hours of age was found. The results are discussed within the framework of the core–cone beam model and orthogonal polarization modes.
VLT-MUSE spectroscopy of AGNs misclassified by BPT diagnostic or with weak emission lines
Authors: Agostino Christopher J , Salim Samir , Boquien Médéric , Janowiecki Steven , Salas Héctor , Couto Guillherme S
Published: October 2023

Despite powerful X-ray emission, some active galactic nuclei (AGNs) are known to either lack optical emission lines (so-called ‘optically dull’ AGNs) or have lines that fall on the star-forming branch of the Baldwin–Phillips–Terlevich (BPT) diagram (‘misclassified’ AGNs). Aperture effects have been proposed to explain such atypical spectra, especially when based on Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS; 3 arcsec) fibres. We use observations from VLT-MUSE with Adaptive Optics to explore the spatially resolved optical emission line properties of four optically dull and one misclassified X-ray AGN candidates. VLT-MUSE IFU spectra allow us to investigate the extent to which the aperture size affects the emission line measurements. The optically dull AGNs become detectable in deeper VLT-MUSE spectroscopic apertures having the same size (3 arcsec) as SDSS fibres, suggesting no AGN is truly lineless. However, in no case does the line become more detectable as the aperture decreases, as would be expected if dilution by strong continuum was responsible for making the lines appear weak. We also show that the misclassified X-ray AGN retains the same position on the BPT diagram in smaller apertures (down to 0.5 arcsec), demonstrating that its misclassification is not the result of the dilution by H ii regions. Thus, we conclude that continuum swamping or star formation dilution, i.e. aperture effects, are not responsible for atypical lines. Rather, the AGN lines are intrinsically weak.
Lensed Type Ia supernovae in light of SN Zwicky and iPTF16geu
Authors: Sainz de Murieta Ana , Collett Thomas E , Magee Mark R , Weisenbach Luke , Krawczyk Coleman M , Enzi Wolfgang
Published: October 2023

Strong gravitationally lensed supernovae (glSNe) are a powerful probe to obtain a measure of the expansion rate of the Universe, but they are also extremely rare. To date, only two glSNe with multiple images strongly lensed by galaxies have been found, but their short time delays make them unsuitable for cosmography. Here, we simulate a realistic catalogue of lensed supernovae and study the characteristics of the population of detectable systems for different surveys. Compared to previous studies, our simulations also account for the effect of microlensing and its impact on the glSNe yields. We show that the properties of glSNe in shallow surveys (such as the Zwicky Transient Facility) are determined by the need for large magnifications, which favours systems of four images with short time delays and low image separations. This picture is consistent with the properties of iPTF16geu and SN Zwicky, but is not representative of the population found in deeper surveys, which are limited by the volume of the Universe that is strongly lensed. For deeper surveys, such as the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), glSNe show longer time delays and greater angular separations, and the inclusion of microlensing results in 8  per cent of glSNe becoming demagnified under the detection threshold. In the 10 yr of the survey LSST should be able to find ≈180 systems, of which 70 will be suited for cosmography enabling a ≈1.2  per cent precision H0 measurement with LSST glSNe.
Influence of early dark matter haloes on the primordial black holes merger rate
Authors: Stasenko Viktor , Belotsky Konstantin
Published: October 2023

Primordial black hole (PBH) binaries forming in the early Universe may contribute to the merger events observed by the LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA collaborations. Moreover, the inferred merger rate constraints the fraction of PBH with masses $m \sim 10 \, {\rm M}_{\odot }$ in the dark matter (DM) to fPBH ≲ 10−3. This constraint assumes that after the formation of PBH binaries, they do not get destroyed or their parameters are not perturbed until the merger. However, PBHs themselves contribute to the formation of early DM structures in which the interactions between PBHs take place actively. This leads to the fact that the binaries can be perturbed in such a way that their lifetime becomes longer than the Hubble time tH. In this work, we consider the effect of the initial spatial Poisson distribution of PBHs on the structure formation at the high redshifts z ≳ 10. Next, we explore the evolution of such haloes due to the interaction of PBHs with each other and with DM particles. We show that the early haloes evolve on time-scales much shorter than the age of the Universe. Furthermore, for fractions of PBHs fPBH < 1, the internal dynamics of a halo is significantly accelerated due to the dynamical friction of PBHs against DM particles. As a result, a significant fraction of binaries will be perturbed in such structures, and the gravitational waves constraints on PBHs with masses $m \sim 10 \, {\rm M}_{\odot }$ can be weakened to fPBH ∼ 0.1.
3D structure of H ii regions in the star-forming complex S254-S258
Authors: Kirsanova Maria S , Moiseev Alexei V , Boley Paul A
Published: October 2023

The S254-258 star-forming complex is a place of massive star formation where five OB-stars have created H ii regions, visible as optical nebulae, and disrupted the parental molecular gas. In this work, we study the 3D structure of these H ii regions using optical spectroscopy and tunable-filter photometry with the 6- and 1-m telescopes of the Special Astrophysical Observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences. We construct maps of the optical extinction and find that the H ii emission is attenuated by neutral material with 2 ≤ AV ≤ 5 mag. The typical electron density in S255, and S257 is ≈100 cm−3, with enhancements up to 200 cm−3 in their borders, and up to 400 cm−3 toward the dense molecular cloud between them, where active star formation is taking place. We show that either a model of a clumpy dense neutral shell, where UV photons penetrate through and ionize the gas, or a stellar wind, can explain the shell-like structure of the ionized gas. S255 is surrounded by neutral material from all sides, but S257 is situated on the border of a molecular cloud and does not have dense front and rear walls. The compact H ii regions S256 and S258 are deeply embedded in the molecular clouds.
The known unknowns of mitochondrial carcinogenesis:de novoNUMTs and intercellular mitochondrial transfer
Authors: Harutyunyan Tigran
Published: October 2023

The translocation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences into the nuclear genome, resulted in the occurrence of nuclear sequences of mitochondrial origin (NUMTs) which can be detected in nearly all sequenced eukaryotes. However, de novo mtDNA insertions can contribute to the development of pathological conditions including cancer. Recent data indicate that de novo mtDNA translocation into chromosomes can occur due to genotoxic influence of DNA double-strand break-inducing environmental mutagens. This confirms the hypothesis of the involvement of genome instability in the occurrence of mtDNA fragments in chromosomes. Mounting evidence indicates that mitochondria can be transferred from normal cells to cancer cells and recover cellular respiration. These exchanged mitochondria can facilitate cancer progression and metastasis. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the potential carcinogenicity of mtDNA insertions, and the relevance of mtDNA escape in cancer progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance in humans. Potential molecular targets involved in mtDNA escape and exchange of mitochondria that can be of possible clinical benefits are presented and discussed. Understanding these processes could lead to improved diagnostic approaches, novel therapeutic strategies, and a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between mitochondria, nuclear DNA, and cancer biology.
Screening, Diagnosis, and Initial Care of Asian and White Patients With Lung Cancer
Authors: Hu Xiao , Melson John W , Pan Stacey S , Salei Yana V , Cao Yu
Published: October 2023

Background

Data on the care of Asian patients with lung cancer in the US are limited; however, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in this population.

Methods

Demographics, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, disease characteristics, and treatment history were compared between Asian and White patients newly diagnosed with lung cancer from 2014 to 2019 identified from Tufts Medical Center cancer registry. The influence of race on presenting stage was assessed via ordinal logistic regression. Time to treatment initiation (TTI) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed via log-rank tests. The impact of race on OS was evaluated via multivariable Cox regression.

Results

Asian patients (N = 144) were more likely to prefer non-English languages, use interpreters, be never-smokers, and harbor EGFR alterations, compared to White patients (N = 472), and to be diagnosed with later-stage lung cancer (odds ratio: 2.14, P < .001), had longer median TTI (early stage: 2.30 vs. 1.43 months, P = .035; curative stage: 1.88 vs. 1.20 months, P = .041) and more often did not receive cancer-directed therapy (12.6% vs. 5.7%, P = .01). Screening LDCT was done only in 11.9% of Asian and 21.4% of White patients (P = .20) who would have met screening criteria prior to diagnosis (N = 215). Median OS was similar between Asian and White patients (not reached vs. 74.8 months, P = .17). Multivariable Cox model suggested better OS for Asian patients (hazard ratio: 0.57, P = .01).

Conclusion

In our study, Asian patients presented with later-stage lung cancer, had treatment delays, and more often did not receive treatment, compared to White patients, yet did not have inferior survival.
Himalayan-like Crustal Melting and Differentiation in the Southern North American Cordilleran Anatectic Belt during the Laramide Orogeny: Coyote Mountains, Arizona
Authors: Chapman James B , Pridmore Cody , Chamberlain Kevin , Haxel Gordon , Ducea Mihai
Published: October 2023

The southern US and northern Mexican Cordillera experienced crustal melting during the Laramide orogeny (c. 80–40 Ma). The metamorphic sources of melt are not exposed at the surface; however, anatectic granites are present throughout the region, providing an opportunity to investigate the metamorphic processes associated with this orogeny. A detailed geochemical and petrochronological analysis of the Pan Tak Granite from the Coyote Mountains core complex in southern Arizona suggests that prograde metamorphism, melting, and melt crystallization occurred here from 62 to 42 Ma. Ti-in-zircon temperatures (TTi-zr) correlate with changes in zircon rare earth elements (REE) concentrations, and indicate prograde heating, mineral breakdown, and melt generation took place from 62 to 53 Ma. TTi-zr increases from ~650 to 850 °C during this interval. A prominent gap in zircon ages is observed from 53 to 51 Ma and is interpreted to reflect the timing of peak metamorphism and melting, which caused zircon dissolution. The age gap is an inflection point in several geochemical-temporal trends that suggest crystallization and cooling dominated afterward, from 51 to 42 Ma. Supporting this interpretation is an increase in zircon U/Th and Hf, a decrease in TTi-zr, increasing zircon (Dy/Yb)n, and textural evidence for coupled dissolution–reprecipitation processes that resulted in zircon (re)crystallization. In addition, whole rock REE, large ion lithophile elements, and major elements suggest that the Pan Tak Granite experienced advanced fractional crystallization during this time. High-silica, muscovite± garnet leucogranite dikes that crosscut two-mica granite represent more evolved residual melt compositions. The Pan Tak Granite was formed by fluid-deficient melting and biotite dehydration melting of meta-igneous protoliths, including Jurassic arc rocks and the Proterozoic Oracle Granite. The most likely causes of melting are interpreted to be a combination of (1) radiogenic heating and relaxation of isotherms associated with crustal thickening under a plateau environment, (2) heat and fluid transfer related to the Laramide continental arc, and (3) shear and viscous heating related to the deformation of the deep lithosphere. The characteristics and petrologic processes that created the Pan Tak Granite are strikingly similar to intrusive suites in the Himalayan leucogranite belt and further support the association between the North American Cordilleran anatectic belt and a major orogenic and thermal event during the Laramide orogeny.
Effects of Perturbation-Based Treadmill Training on Balance Performance, Daily Life Gait, and Falls in Older Adults: REACT Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rieger Markus M , Papegaaij Selma , Steenbrink Frans , van Dieën Jaap H , Pijnappels Mirjam
Published: October 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of perturbation-based treadmill training on gait quality in daily life, a predictor of fall risk that was used as the primary outcome. An additional aim was to evaluate the effects on secondary outcomes, including balance, gait performance, self-efficacy, daily life physical activity, and falls.

Methods

Seventy community-dwelling older adults (mean age = 74.73 [SD = 5.69] years; 46 women) at risk of falling were randomized and received 4 weeks of dual-task treadmill training, either with or without treadmill perturbations. Balance, gait performance, self-efficacy, and daily life trunk accelerometry at baseline, after intervention, and at a 6-month follow-up were assessed and compared within group over time and between groups for each time point, and their change rates between groups over time were also assessed.

Results

Both groups improved in their balance, gait performance, and self-efficacy; the experimental group showed a significantly larger decrease in concern of falling and an increase in physical performance than the controls. These training effects did not translate into significant improvements in daily life gait quality or physical activity. However, the number of daily life falls and the percentage of fallers decreased significantly more in the experimental group.

Conclusion

A 4-week perturbation-based dual-task treadmill training program can improve self-efficacy, balance, and gait performance in a controlled setting and reduce daily life falls, although not through changes in quantity or quality of daily life gait.

Impact

Perturbation-based treadmill training is a safe and efficient way to train older adults’ balance recovery and gait performance, increase self-efficacy, and prevent falls.
Myocarditis in anti-synthetase syndrome: clinical features and diagnostic modalities
Authors: De Luca Giacomo , Campochiaro Corrado , Palmisano Anna , Bruno Elisa , Vignale Davide , Peretto Giovanni , Sala Simone , Ferlito Arianna , Cilona Maria Bernardette , Esposito Antonio , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Dagna Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Myocarditis is an overlooked manifestation of anti-synthetase syndrome (ASS). Our study describes the clinical and instrumental features of ASS myocarditis and evaluates the performance of cardiac MRI (CMRI) with mapping techniques in assisting diagnosis of ASS myocarditis.

Methods

Data from patients with ASS were retrospectively analysed. CMRI data for patients diagnosed with myocarditis, including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), T2 ratio, T1 mapping, extracellular volume (ECV) and T2 mapping, were reviewed. Myocarditis was defined by the presence of symptoms and/or signs suggestive for heart involvement, including increased high-sensitive troponin T (hs-TnT) and/or N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and at least an instrumental abnormality. The clinical features of patients with ASS with and without myocarditis were compared. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Among a cohort of 43 patients with ASS [median age 58 (48.0–66.0) years; females 74.4%; anti-Jo1 53.5%], 13 (30%) were diagnosed with myocarditis. In 54% of those 13 patients, myocarditis was diagnosed at clinical onset. All patients with ASS with myocarditis had at least one CMRI abnormality: increased ECV in all cases, presence of LGE in 91%, and increased T1 and T2 mapping in 91%. The 2009 Lake Louise criteria (LLC) were satisfied by 6 patients, and the 2018 LLC by 10 patients. With the updated LLC, the sensitivity for myocarditis improved from 54.6% to 91.0%. Patients with ASS with myocarditis were more frequently males (53% vs 13%; P = 0.009) with fever (69% vs 17%; P = 0.001), and had higher hs-TnT [88.0 (23.55–311.5) vs 9.80 (5.0–23.0) ng/l; P < 0.001], NT-proBNP [525.5 (243.5–1575.25) vs 59.0 (32.0–165.5; P = 0.013) pg/ml; P = 0.013] and CRP [7.0 (1.7–15.75) vs 1.85 (0.5–2.86) mg/l; P = 0.011] compared with those without myocarditis.

Conclusion

In ASS, myocarditis is frequent, even at clinical onset. Patients with ASS with myocarditis frequently presented with fever and increased CRP, suggesting the existence of an inflammatory phenotype. The use of novel CMRI mapping techniques may increase diagnostic sensitivity for myocarditis in ASS.
Gender Differences in the Geographic Breadth of Job Search: Examining Job Applications
Authors: Mueller-Gastell Katariina , Pedulla David S
Published: October 2023

Where one lives and works is increasingly important in shaping economic opportunities. Yet, women, particularly partnered women, are less likely than men to relocate for a job, potentially serving as a key force in the production of gender labor market stratification. We examine why women’s geographic job mobility is lower than men’s, building on theoretical insights about the structural features of the labor market as well as how households make decisions. Our contribution arises from examining job applications rather than completed job moves. This enables us to examine the behavior of job seekers independent of employers’ hiring decision-making that may shape the findings in scholarship that focuses on completed job moves. We draw on an original dataset that captures detailed, prospective information on the job applications submitted by a national, probability-based sample of job seekers. Our findings indicate that even at the application stage, partnered women – but not women who have never been married – are less likely than comparable men to apply for a job requiring a move. This pattern holds even after accounting for structural features of the labor market. Theories of gendered household dynamics appear to better explain our findings for partnered individuals than theories of household economic maximization.
Origin, genomic diversity and evolution of African swine fever virus in East Asia
Authors: Xin Genyang , Kuang Qiyuan , Le Shijia , Wu Weichen , Gao Qi , Gao Han , Xu Zhiying , Zheng Zezhong , Lu Gang , Gong Lang , Wang Heng , Zhang Guihong , Shi Mang , Sun Yankuo
Published: October 2023

Since 2018, the outbreaks of genotype II African swine fever virus (ASFV) in China and several eastern Asian countries have caused a huge impact on the local swine industry, resulting in huge economic losses. However, little is known about the origin, genomic diversity, evolutionary features, and epidemiological history of the genotype II ASFV. Here, 14 high-quality complete genomes of ASFVs were generated via sequencing of samples collected from China over the course of 3 years, followed by phylogenetic and phylodynamic analyses. The strains identified were relatively homogeneous, with a total of 52 SNPs and 11 indels compared with the prototype strain HLJ/2018, among which there were four exceptionally large deletions (620–18,023 nt). Evolutionary analyses revealed that ASFV strains distributed in eastern Asia formed a monophyly and a ‘star-like’ structure centered around the prototype strain, suggesting a single origin. Additionally, phylogenetic network analysis and ancestral reconstruction of geographic state indicated that genotype II ASFV strains in eastern Asia likely originated from Western Europe. Overall, these results contribute to the understanding of the history and current status of genotype II ASFV strains in eastern Asian, which could be of considerable importance in disease control and prevention.
Best Evidence for Each Surgical Step in Minimally Invasive Right Hemicolectomy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Grüter Alexander A.J. , Sijmons Julie M.L. , Coblijn Usha K. , Toorenvliet Boudewijn R. , Tanis Pieter J. , Tuynman Jurriaan B.
Published: October 2023

Objective:

The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for each surgical step of the minimally invasive right hemicolectomy (MIRH) for non-locally advanced colon cancer, to define the most optimal procedure with the highest level of evidence.

Background:

High variability exists in the way MIRH is performed between surgeons and hospitals, which could affect patients’ postoperative and oncological outcomes.

Methods:

A systematic search using PubMed was performed to first identify systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and if there were none then landmark papers and consensus statements were systematically searched for each key step of MIRH. Systematic reviews were assessed using the AMSTAR-2 tool, and selection was based on highest quality followed by year of publication.

Results:

Low (less than 12 mmHg) intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) gives higher mean quality of recovery compared to standard IAP. Complete mesocolic excision (CME) is associated with lowest recurrence and highest 5-year overall survival rates, without worsening short-term outcomes. Routine D3 versus D2 lymphadenectomy showed higher LN yield, but more vascular injuries, and no difference in overall and disease-free survival. Intracorporeal anastomosis is associated with better intra- and postoperative outcomes. The Pfannenstiel incision gives the lowest chance of incisional hernias compared to all other extraction sites.

Conclusion:

According to the best available evidence, the most optimal MIRH for colon cancer without clinically involved D3 nodes entails at least low IAP, CME with D2 lymphadenectomy, an intracorporeal anastomosis and specimen extraction through a Pfannenstiel incision.
Effects of adding exercise to usual care on blood pressure in patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Rijal Anupa , Adhikari Tara Ballav , Dhakal Sarmila , Maagaard Mathias , Piri Reza , Nielsen Emil Eik , Neupane Dinesh , Jakobsen Janus Christian , Olsen Michael Hecht
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Exercise is the most recommended lifestyle intervention in managing hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and/or cardiovascular disease; however, evidence in lowering blood pressure is still inconsistent and often underpowered.

Method:

We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized clinical trials adding any form of trialist defined exercise to usual care versus usual care and its effect on systolic blood pressure (SBP) or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in participants with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular disease searched in different databases from inception to July 2020. Our methodology was based on PRISMA and Cochrane Risk of Bias-version1. Five independent reviewers extracted data and assessed risk of bias in pairs.

Results:

Two hundred sixty-nine trials randomizing 15 023 participants reported our predefined outcomes. The majority of exercise reported in the review was dynamic aerobic exercise (61%), dynamic resistance (11%), and combined aerobic and resistance exercise (15%). The trials included participants with hypertension (33%), type 2 diabetes (28%), or cardiovascular disease (37%). Meta-analyses and trial sequential analyses reported that adding exercise to usual care reduced SBP [mean difference (MD) MD: −4.1 mmHg; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) −4.99 to −3.14; P < 0.01; I
2 = 95.3%] and DBP (MD: −2.6 mmHg; 95% CI −3.22 to −2.07, P < 0.01; I
2 = 94%). Test of interaction showed that the reduction of SBP and DBP was almost two times higher among trials from low-and middle-income countries (LMICs) as compared to high-income countries (HICs). The exercise induced SBP reduction was also higher among participants with hypertension and type 2 diabetes compared to participants with cardiovascular disease. The very low certainty of evidence warrants a cautious interpretation of the present results.

Conclusion:

Adding any type of exercise to usual care may be a potential complementary strategy for optimal management of blood pressure for patients with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or cardiovascular disease, especially, in LMICs.

PROSPERO registration number CRD42019142313
Domains of Excellence: A CDC Framework for Developing High-Quality, Impact-Driven Public Health Science Publications
Authors: Parker Erin M. , Zhu Bao-Ping , Li Zheng , Puddy Richard W. , Kelly Megan A. , Scott Colleen , Penman-Aguilar Ana , Mekonnen Mahider A. , Stephens James W.
Published: October 2023

Context:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a long history of using high-quality science to drive public health action that has improved the health, safety, and well-being of people in the United States and globally. To ensure scientific quality, manuscripts authored by CDC staff are required to undergo an internal review and approval process known as clearance. During 2022, CDC launched a scientific clearance transformation initiative to improve the efficiency of the clearance process while ensuring scientific quality.

Program:

As part of the scientific clearance transformation initiative, a group of senior scientists across CDC developed a framework called the Domains of Excellence for High-Quality Publications (DOE framework). The framework includes 7 areas (“domains”) that authors can consider for developing high-quality and impactful scientific manuscripts: Clarity, Scientific Rigor, Public Health Relevance, Policy Content, Ethical Standards, Collaboration, and Health Equity. Each domain includes multiple quality elements, highlighting specific key considerations within.

Implementation:

CDC scientists are expected to use the DOE framework when conceptualizing, developing, revising, and reviewing scientific products to support collaboration and to ensure the quality and impact of their scientific manuscripts.

Discussion:

The DOE framework sets expectations for a consistent standard for scientific manuscripts across CDC and promotes collaboration among authors, partners, and other subject matter experts. Many aspects have broad applicability to the public health field at large and might be relevant for others developing high-quality manuscripts in public health science. The framework can serve as a useful reference document for CDC authors and others in the public health community as they prepare scientific manuscripts for publication and dissemination.