bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic zinc glycine chelate is better than inorganic zinc in improving growth performance of cherry valley ducks by regulating intestinal morphology, barrier function, and the gut microbiome
Authors: Chang Yaqi , Wang Ke , Wen Min , Wu Bing , Liu Guangmang , Zhao Hua , Chen Xiaoling , Cai Jingyi , Jia Gang
Published: August 2023

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element that has physiological and nutritional functions. However, excessive use of Zn can lead to waste of resources. In this study, we compared the effects of inorganic (ZnSO4) and organic Zn glycine chelate (Zn-Gly) on the growth performance, intestinal morphology, immune function, barrier integrity, and gut microbiome of Cherry Valley ducks. We randomly divided 180 one-day-old male meat ducks into three groups, each with six replicates of 10 birds: basal diet group (CON), basal diet with 70 mg Zn/kg from ZnSO4 (ZnSO4 group), and basal diet with 70 mg Zn/kg from Zn-Gly (Zn-Gly group). After 14 and 35 d of feeding, birds in the Zn groups had significantly increased body weight and average daily gain (ADG), decreased intestinal permeability indicator d-lactate, improved intestinal morphology and barrier function-related tight junction protein levels, and upregulated mucin 2 and secretory immunoglobulin A levels compared to the control (P < 0.05). Additionally, compared to the ZnSO4 group, we found that supplementation with Zn-Gly at 70 mg/kg Zn resulted in the significant increase of body weight at 35 d, 1 to 35 d ADG and average daily feed intake, villus height at 14 and 35 d, secretory immunoglobulin A and immunoglobulin G at 14 d, and mucin 2 mRNA level at 14 d (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group, dietary Zn had a significant effect on the gene expression of metallothionein at 14 and 35 d (P < 0.05). 16S rRNA sequencing showed that Zn significantly increased alpha diversity (P < 0.05), whereas no differences in beta diversity were observed among groups (P > 0.05). Dietary Zn significantly altered the cecal microbiota composition by increasing the abundances of Firmicutes, Blautia, Lactobacillus, Prevotellaceae NK3B31, and [Ruminococcus] torques group and reducing that of Bacteroides (P < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis revealed that the changes in microbiota were highly correlated (P < 0.05) with growth performance, intestinal morphology, and immune function-related parameters. Taken together, our data show that, under the condition of adding 70 mg/kg Zn, supplementation with Zn-Gly promoted growth performance by regulating intestinal morphology, immune function, barrier integrity, and gut microbiota of Cherry Valley ducks compared with the use of ZnSO4 in feed.
A new method in reservoir rock classification in carbonate and sandstone formations
Authors: Omrani Hashem , Hajipour Mastaneh , Jamshidi Saeid , Behnood Mohammad
Published: August 2023

This study aims to improve rock-type classification by analyzing core data based on the water–oil primary drainage capillary pressure method. A modified empirical equation is proposed using permeability, porosity, and irreducible water saturation to classify rock types based on water–oil primary drainage capillary pressure. We used primary drainage capillary pressure data measured in carbonate and sandstone samples in the Ahvaz Asmari and Mansouri oilfields to evaluate the characterization number (Cn) method. This study consists of two main parts. First, the Cn method is introduced to rock typing, and the permeability is calculated from well log data. In the second part, we present rock-type classification when the water saturation of the formation is more than the irreducible water saturation. The novelty of this work is a simple and efficient technique to rock-type classification using the Cn method. In addition, we present a procedure to assign rock types for the transition zone using the Cn method. Moreover, this study systematically investigates the role of irreducible water saturation in rock typing. The innovation of this work lies in its ability to classify rocks in heterogeneous reservoirs for carbonate and sandstone lithology and allow for the calculation of permeability more accurately from well log data. The comparison results between the Cn method and the flow zone indicator method show the robust clustering ability of the Cn method.
Proximal femoral derotation osteotomy for management of femoral malversion: a systematic review
Authors: Sohatee Mark , Jaibaji Monketh , Malviya Ajay
Published: August 2023

Femoral malversion is an under-recognized contributor to hip pain in younger adults. Under treatment is often a contributor to poor outcomes in hip preservation surgery. We reviewed the literature to analyse the outcomes of proximal femoral derotation osteotomy as a treatment for femoral malversion as well as propose our own management algorithm for treating such patients.

A systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines searching four databases (PubMed, CINALH, MEDLINE and EMBASE) for studies investigating the outcomes of derotation osteotomy in treating malversion. Nine studies were found encompassing 229 hips.

At a mean follow-up of 39.9 months across the studies, there were only two conversions (1%) to total hip arthroplasty and four revision cases in total. Seven of the nine studies reported improved functional outcomes in their cohorts, with the mean Harris hip score improved from 63.7 to 87.3 where reported.

There is a paucity of literature around the outcomes of proximal femoral derotation osteotomy. However, both the evidence available and the authors’ experience suggest that consideration of femoral malversion is an essential component of hip preservation surgery, improving functional outcomes in cases of excessive femoral anteversion and femoral retroversion.
Risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in people with HIV in the United States, 2001-2019
Authors: McGee-Avila Jennifer K , Argirion Ilona , Engels Eric A , O’Brien Thomas R , Horner Marie-Josèphe , Qiao Baozhen , Monterosso Analise , Luo Qianlai , Shiels Meredith S
Published: August 2023

Background

People with HIV have higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma than the general population, partly because of higher prevalence of coinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV).

Methods

We calculated standardized incidence ratios for hepatocellular carcinoma in people with HIV by comparing rates from people with HIV in the HIV/AIDS Cancer Match Study, a population-based HIV and cancer registry linkage, to those in the general population. We used multivariable Poisson regression to estimate adjusted incidence rate ratios among people with HIV and linked the Texas HIV registry with medical claims data to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs) of HBV and HCV in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with logistic regression.

Results

Compared with the general population, hepatocellular carcinoma rates in people with HIV were elevated 2.79-fold (n = 1736; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.66 to 2.92). Hepatocellular carcinoma rates decreased statistically significantly from 2001-2004 to 2015-2019 (P < .001). Compared with men who have sex with men, hepatocellular carcinoma risk was elevated 4.28-fold among men who injected drugs (95% CI = 3.72 to 4.93) and 1.83-fold among women who injected drugs (95% CI = 1.49 to 2.26). In Texas, 146 hepatocellular carcinoma cases among people with HIV were linked to claims data: 25% HBV positive, 59% HCV positive, and 13% coinfected with HBV and HCV. Compared with men who had sex with men, people who inject drugs had 82% decreased odds of HBV (AOR = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.05 to 0.63) and 2 times the odds of HCV (AOR = 20.4, 95% CI = 3.32 to 125.3).

Conclusions

During 2001-2019, hepatocellular carcinoma risk declined among people with HIV, though rates remain statistically significantly elevated compared with the general population, particularly among people who inject drugs. Prevention and treatment of HBV/HCV are needed to reduce hepatocellular carcinoma risk among people with HIV.
Longitudinal analysis of exchanges of support between parents and children in the UK
Authors: Steele Fiona , Zhang Siliang , Grundy Emily , Burchardt Tania
Published: August 2023

We consider how exchanges of support between parents and adult children vary by demographic and socio-economic characteristics and examine evidence for reciprocity in transfers and substitution between practical and financial support. Using data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study 2011–19, repeated measures of help given and received are analysed jointly using multivariate random effects probit models. Exchanges are considered from both a child and parent perspective. In the latter case, we propose a novel approach to account for the correlation between mother and father reports and develop an efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm suitable for large datasets with multiple outcomes.
Modalities of Medical Assistance to Populations in French Role 1 Facilities From January 2020 to December 2021
Authors: Perret Julien , Varvenne David
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Medical assistance to populations (MAP) is a rich and varied activity, but it is not well known, and its modalities are inconsistent and unclear, particularly in the pediatric field; they can confront the military doctor with difficult management issues. Today, a military doctor deployed in foreign operations (FOs) does not know if he will perform MAP. He does not know how it will be carried out, nor if it will include a pediatric component. Finally, he does not know what difficulties he will face and therefore cannot prepare himself effectively. The primary objective of this work is to describe the modalities of MAP in FO, with an emphasis on the pediatric activity. The secondary objective is to develop a template for a post-session MAP registry.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective descriptive study. An electronic questionnaire was sent to all physicians in Forces Medicine. All military physicians deployed to a role 1 structure between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, were included. The questionnaire reports the sociodemographic data of the responding physicians and their skills in pediatrics, the modalities of MAP, and the difficulties encountered, and questions the interest of setting up a “tactical health watch” and a tele-expertise with pediatricians in France. Analyses are descriptive (means, graphs, and percentages). This work was authorized by the Directorate of Forces Medicine and the Directorate of Training, Research, and Innovation of the French Defense Health Service.

Results

We obtained 140 analyzable responses, among which 102 deployments in a role 1 facility, and 44% of the physicians practiced MAP. The share of pediatrics during MAP sessions is estimated to be significant (i.e., >50% of patients) by 42% of physicians. Physicians felt that they were having difficulties in their MAP activity in 26% of the cases and in their pediatric activity in 38% of the cases. Difficulties encountered in pediatrics seemed to diminish with the level of experience in FO or when the practitioner had a pediatric activity back in metropolitan France. On the contrary, difficulties seemed to increase when the training in pediatrics was greater.

Conclusions

MAP in FO is an activity in which modalities are very variable depending on the theater. Practitioners must have a solid theoretical and practical preparation beforehand, particularly in pediatrics. Keeping a specific activity register is an essential basis for judiciously adapting human and material resources dedicated to this activity. Future studies should aim to investigate more precisely the difficulties encountered.
Computationally efficient reionization in a large hydrodynamic galaxy formation simulation
Authors: Davies James E , Bird Simeon , Mutch Simon , Ni Yueying , Feng Yu , Croft Rupert , Matteo Tiziana Di , Wyithe J Stuart B
Published: August 2023

Accuracy in the topology and statistics of a simulated epoch of reionization (EoR) are vital to draw connections between observations and physical processes. While full radiative transfer models produce the most accurate reionization models, they are highly computationally expensive, and are infeasible for the largest cosmological simulations. Instead, large simulations often include EoR models that are pre-computed via the initial density field, or post-processed where feedback effects are ignored. We introduce astrid-es, a resimulation of the astrid epoch of reionization 20 > z > 5.5 which includes an on-the-fly excursion-set reionization algorithm. astrid-es produces more accurate reionization histories without significantly impacting the computational time. This model directly utilizes the star particles produced in the simulation to calculate the EoR history and includes an ultraviolet (UV) background which heats the gas particles after their reionization. We contrast the reionization topology and statistics in astrid-es with the previously employed parametric reionization model, finding that in astrid-es, ionized regions are more correlated with galaxies, and the 21cm power spectrum shows an increase in large-scale power. We calculate the relation between the size of H ii regions and the UV luminosity of the brightest galaxy within them. Prior to the overlap phase, we find a power-law fit of log(R) = −0.314MUV − 2.550log(1 + z) + 7.408 with a standard deviation σR < 0.15 dex across all mass bins. We also examine the properties of haloes throughout reionization, finding that while the properties of haloes in the simulation are correlated with the redshift of reionization, they are not greatly affected by reionization itself.
Bridging the gap between intermediate and massive stars II: Mmas for the most metal-rich stars and implications for Fe CCSNe rates
Authors: Cinquegrana Giulia C , Joyce Meridith , Karakas Amanda I
Published: August 2023

The minimum initial mass required for a star to explode as an Fe core collapse supernova, typically denoted Mmas, is an important quantity in stellar evolution because it defines the border between intermediate mass and massive stellar evolutionary paths. The precise value of Mmas carries implications for models of galactic chemical evolution and the calculation of star formation rates. Despite the fact that stars with super-solar metallicities are commonplace within spiral and some giant elliptical galaxies, there are currently no studies of this mass threshold in super metal-rich models with Z > 0.05. Here, we study the minimum mass necessary for a star to undergo an Fe core collapse supernova when its initial metal content falls in the range 2.5 × 10−3 ≤ Z ≤ 0.10. Although an increase in initial Z corresponds to an increase in the Fe ignition threshold for Z ≈ 1 × 10−3 to Z ≈ 0.04, we find that there is a steady reversal in trend that occurs for Z > 0.05. Our super metal-rich models thus undergo Fe core collapse at lower initial masses than those required at solar metallicity. Our results indicate that metallicity-dependent curves extending to Z = 0.10 for the minimum Fe ignition mass should be utilized in galactic chemical evolution simulations to accurately model supernovae rates as a function of metallicity, particularly for simulations of metal-rich spiral and elliptical galaxies.
Astronomical seeing and ground-level optical turbulence at Delingha observatory on the northern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhu Liming , Zhang Hanjiu , Zhang Liang , Duan Xuefeng , Lu Xinying , Liu Ying , Li Xuebin , Sun Gang , Weng Ningquan
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive site survey of the Delingha site on the northern Tibetan Plateau from 2012 to 2014. In this campaign, we investigated 24 h continuous astronomical seeing, meteorological properties, and $C_{n}^{2}$ in the ground layer (GL). The results show that the median seeing is 3.46 arcsec during the day and 1.80 arcsec during the night. The best nighttime seeing occurs in summer (1.66 arcsec), while the worst occurs in autumn (1.96 arcsec). Seeing exhibits obvious diurnal behaviour, with the worst seeing occurring around mid-day (11:00 to 14:00, Beijing time), and the best seeing just before sunset (18:00 to 20:00, Beijing time). Moreover, the Delingha site has good meteorological properties for astronomical observations during the measurement period, especially the low median wind speed (2.8 m s−1) and great temperature inversion (day: −0.3 K, night: 0.6 K). As for the vertical distribution of $C_{n}^{2}$, the exponential h−0.46 dependence of $C_{n}^{2}$ varying with height in the GL is also obtained, and its power index is significantly related to the seasons. Furthermore, we calculated the contribution of optical turbulence in the GL to the whole atmosphere. Turbulence within the GL contributes significantly in summer, and its contribution can reach more than 35 per cent. Finally, we present the complete dependence analysis of seeing on meteorological parameters at the Delingha site. The results show that the best seeing tends to occur when the temperature inversion is sufficiently large, but the dependence of seeing on wind speed is not significant.
Towards 21-cm intensity mapping at z = 2.28 with uGMRT using the tapered gridded estimator – III. Foreground removal
Authors: Elahi Kh Md Asif , Bharadwaj Somnath , Pal Srijita , Ghosh Abhik , Ali Sk Saiyad , Choudhuri Samir , Chakraborty Arnab , Datta Abhirup , Roy Nirupam , Choudhury Madhurima , Dutta Prasun
Published: August 2023

Neutral hydrogen (${\rm H\, \small {I}}$) 21-cm intensity mapping (IM) is a promising probe of the large-scale structures in the Universe. However, a few orders of magnitude brighter foregrounds obscure the IM signal. Here, we use the tapered gridded estimator to estimate the multifrequency angular power spectrum Cℓ(Δν) from a $24.4\hbox{-} \rm {MHz}$ bandwidth upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope Band 3 data at $432.8\ \rm {MHz}$. In Cℓ(Δν) foregrounds remain correlated across the entire Δν range, whereas the 21-cm signal is localized within Δν ≤ [Δν] (typically, 0.5–1 MHz). Assuming the range Δν > [Δν] to have minimal 21-cm signal, we use Cℓ(Δν) in this range to model the foregrounds. This foreground model is extrapolated to Δν ≤ [Δν], and subtracted from the measured Cℓ(Δν). The residual [Cℓ(Δν)]res in the range Δν ≤ [Δν] is used to constrain the 21-cm signal, compensating for the signal loss from foreground subtraction. [Cℓ(Δν)]res is found to be noise-dominated without any trace of foregrounds. Using [Cℓ(Δν)]res, we constrain the 21-cm brightness temperature fluctuations Δ2(k), and obtain the 2σ upper limit $\Delta _{\rm UL}^2(k)\le (18.07)^2\ \rm {mK^2}$ at $k=0.247\ \rm {Mpc}^{-1}$. We further obtain the 2σ upper limit $[\Omega _{{\rm H\, \small {I}}}b_{{\rm H\, \small {I}}}]_{\rm UL}\le 0.022$, where $\Omega _{{\rm H\, \small {I}}}$ and $b_{{\rm H\, \small {I}}}$ are the comoving ${\rm H\, \small {I}}$ density and bias parameters, respectively. Although the upper limit is nearly 10 times larger than the expected 21-cm signal, it is 3 times tighter over previous works using foreground avoidance on the same data.
Testing a stochastic acceleration model of pulsar wind nebulae: early evolution of a wind nebula associated with SN 1986J
Authors: Tanaka Shuta J , Kashiyama Kazumi
Published: August 2023

Over 3000 pulsars have been discovered, but none have been confirmed to be younger than a few hundred years. Observing a pulsar after a supernova explosion will help us understand the properties of newborn ones, including their capability to produce gamma-ray bursts and fast radio bursts. Here, the possible youngest pulsar wind nebula (PWN) at the centre of the SN 1986J remnant is studied. We demonstrate that the 5 GHz flux of ‘PWN 1986J’, increasing with time, is consistent with a stochastic acceleration model of PWNe developed to explain the flat radio spectrum of the Crab Nebula. We obtain an acceleration time-scale of electrons/positrons and a decay time-scale of the turbulence responsible for the stochastic acceleration as about 10 yr and 70 yr, respectively. Our findings suggest that efficient stochastic acceleration and rising radio/submm light curves are characteristic signatures of the youngest PWNe. Follow-up ALMA observations of decades-old supernovae within a few tens of Mpc, including SN 1986J, are encouraged to reveal the origin of the flat radio spectrum of PWNe.
The impact of UV variability on the abundance of bright galaxies at z ≥ 9
Authors: Shen Xuejian , Vogelsberger Mark , Boylan-Kolchin Michael , Tacchella Sandro , Kannan Rahul
Published: August 2023

JWST observations have revealed a population of galaxies bright enough that potentially challenge standard galaxy formation models in the Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) cosmology. Using a minimal empirical framework, we investigate the influence of variability on the rest-frame ultra-violet (UV) luminosity function of galaxies at z ≥ 9. Our study differentiates between the median UV radiation yield and the variability of UV luminosities of galaxies at a fixed dark matter halo mass. We primarily focus on the latter effect, which depends on halo assembly and galaxy formation processes and can significantly increase the abundance of UV-bright galaxies due to the upscatter of galaxies in lower-mass haloes. We find that a relatively low level of variability, σUV ≈ 0.75 mag, matches the observational constraints at z ≈ 9. However, increasingly larger σUV is necessary when moving to higher redshifts, reaching $\sigma _{\rm UV} \approx 2.0\, (2.5)\, {\rm mag}$ at z ≈ 12 (16). This implied variability is consistent with expectations of physical processes in high-redshift galaxies such as bursty star formation and dust clearance during strong feedback cycles. Photometric constraints from JWST at z ≳ 9 therefore can be reconciled with a standard ΛCDM-based galaxy formation model calibrated at lower redshifts without the need for adjustments to the median UV radiation yield.
Hybrid stars built with density-dependent models
Authors: Issifu A , da Silva F M , Menezes D P
Published: August 2023

Using a density-dependent quark model and a relativistic model within the mean-field approximation for hadrons with density-dependent meson-baryon couplings, we construct, for the first time, models that describe hybrid neutron stars consisting of nucleons and exotic baryons (hyperons and Δ-resonances). We do the study using a Maxwell construction. The quark-hadron phase transition in the stellar matter is determined through the structure, composition, and properties of the hybrid neutron star matter. The macroscopic properties of the star are determined, and the results for these particular models are found to be compatible with recent observational astrophysical data.
The face-on projection of the Miyamoto & Nagai discs
Authors: Ciotti Luca
Published: August 2023

The face-on projected density profile of the Miyamoto & Nagai discs of arbitrary flattening is obtained analytically in terms of incomplete elliptic integrals of first and second type, by using two complementary approaches, and then checked against the results of numerical integration. As computer algebra systems do not seem able to obtain the resulting formula in any straightforward way, the relevant mathematical steps are provided. During this study, three wrong identities in the Byrd & Friedman tables of elliptic integrals have been identified, and their correct expression is given.
C3G and Ig-MPGN—treatment standard
Authors: Noris Marina , Remuzzi Giuseppe
Published: August 2023

Among the broad spectrum of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN), immunofluorescence distinguishes C3 glomerulopathy (C3G), with predominant C3 deposits, and immunoglobulin-associated MPGN (Ig-MPGN), with combined C3 and Ig. However, there are several intersections between C3G and Ig-MPGN. Primary C3G and Ig-MPGN share the same prevalence of low serum C3 levels and of abnormalities of the alternative pathway of complement, and patients who present a bioptic pattern of Ig-MPGN at onset may show a C3G pattern in a subsequent biopsy. There is no specific therapy for primary C3G and Ig-MPGN and prognosis is unfavourable. The only recommended indications are inhibitors of the renin–angiotensin system, lipid-lowering agents and other renoprotective agents. The other drugs used currently, such as corticosteroids and mycophenolate mofetil, are often ineffective. The anti-C5 monoclonal antibody eculizumab has been tested in several patients, with mixed results. One reason for the uncertainty is the extremely variable clinical course, most likely reflecting a heterogeneous pathogenesis. An unsupervised clustering analysis that included histologic, biochemical, genetic and clinical data available at onset in patients with primary C3G and Ig-MPGN identified four clusters characterized by specific pathogenic mechanisms. This approach may facilitate accurate diagnosis and development of targeted therapies. Several trials are ongoing with drugs targeting different molecules of the complement cascade, however it is important to consider which component of the cascade may be the most appropriate for each patient. We review the current standards of treatment and discuss novel developments in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, outcome prediction and management of C3G and Ig-MPGN.
Multiscale network neuroscience in neuro-oncology: How tumors, brain networks, and behavior connect across scales
Authors: Maas Dorien A , Douw Linda
Published: August 2023

Network neuroscience refers to the investigation of brain networks across different spatial and temporal scales, and has become a leading framework to understand the biology and functioning of the brain. In neuro-oncology, the study of brain networks has revealed many insights into the structure and function of cells, circuits, and the entire brain, and their association with both functional status (e.g., cognition) and survival. This review connects network findings from different scales of investigation, with the combined aim of informing neuro-oncological healthcare professionals on this exciting new field and also delineating the promising avenues for future translational and clinical research that may allow for application of network methods in neuro-oncological care.
Net zero emission goals demand worldwide cooperation
Authors: Dou Shi Xue , Lai Wei-Hong , Cook Chris
Published: August 2023

This perspective emphasizes the need for global cooperation and decisive action to address the urgent threat of climate change and achieve the net zero emissions goal before 2050.
Deeper Pathways for Recruitment Efforts: Identifying Opportunities for Undergraduate and Medical Student Involvement in Infectious Diseases
Authors: Goel Divyam , Tin Michelle T , Hariprasad Krishna C , Garg Diya S , Besic Arnel , Dillon Tilly A , Masson Zoe R , Goralsky Lauren A , Goralsky Julia A , Barron Molly K , Saji Jasmine A , Hobson Wendy L , Jones Trahern W
Published: August 2023

Background

Only 74% of infectious diseases (ID) training positions were filled in the 2022 fellowship match, indicating a need to find increasingly novel and creative solutions for ID recruitment and outreach.

Methods

The websites of 2321 universities and 181 medical schools across the United States were manually searched for the presence of undergraduate clubs and interest groups, respectively, for multiple medical specialties and subspecialties, including ID. Geographic data were used to compare the proximity of ID fellowships to undergraduate institutions.

Results

ID student groups were extremely rare among the categories studied throughout undergraduate institutions (6 out of 2048, or 0.29%). Only 58 of 163 (35.6%) medical schools nationwide included an ID student group. Geographic comparison found that every adult ID fellowship is in the same county and/or city as at least 1 undergraduate institution and 28.5% of adult ID fellowships are in the same zip code as at least 1 undergraduate institution.

Conclusions

The relative paucity of ID student interest groups presents an opportunity for the ID community to begin outreach and recruitment at the undergraduate and medical student levels, specifically through student groups.
Non-pharmacological management of neuropathic pain in older adults: a systematic review
Authors: Holmes Ashleigh , Chang Yu-Ping
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Neuropathic pain encompasses multiple diagnoses with detrimental impacts on quality of life and overall health. In older adults, pharmacological management is limited by adverse effects and drug interactions, while surgical management involves perioperative risk. Prior reviews addressing non-pharmacological interventions for neuropathic pain have not focused on this demographic. Therefore, this systematic review synthesizes the evidence regarding the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in reducing neuropathic pain severity in older adults.

Methods

PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycInfo were searched using key terms, with inclusion criteria of age ≥ 65, neuropathic pain, non-pharmacological intervention, pain severity measurement, English language, peer-reviewed, and either randomized controlled trial (RCT) or quasi-experimental design. In total, 2759 records were identified, with an additional 28 records identified by review of reference lists. After removal of duplicates, 2288 records were screened by title and abstract, 404 full-text articles were assessed, and 19 articles were critically reviewed and synthesized.

Results

Of the 14 RCTs and 5 quasi-experimental studies included in the review, the most common intervention was electric and/or magnetic therapy, followed by acupuncture, mindfulness meditation, exercise, and light therapy. Several studies revealed both statistical and clinical significance, but conclusions were limited by small sample sizes and methodological shortcomings. The interventions were generally safe and acceptable.

Conclusions

Results should be interpreted with consideration of clinical vs statistical significance, mediators of pain severity, and individual variations in effectiveness. Further research should address multimodal and novel interventions, newer models of care, and technology-based interventions.
Long-term causal effects of far-right terrorism in New Zealand
Authors: Bulbulia Joseph A , Afzali M Usman , Yogeeswaran Kumar , Sibley Chris G
Published: August 2023

The Christchurch mosque attacks in 2019, committed by a radical right-wing extremist, resulted in the tragic loss of 51 lives. Following these events, there was a noticable rise in societal acceptance of Muslim minorities. Comparable transient reactions have been observed elsewhere. However, the critical questions remain: can these effects endure? Are enduring effects evident across the political spectrum? It is challenging to answer such questions because identifying long-term causal effects requires estimating unobserved attitudinal trajectories without the attacks. Here, we use six preattack waves of Muslim acceptance responses from the New Zealand Attitudes and Values Study (NZAVS) to infer missing counterfactual trajectories (NZAVS cohort 2012, N=4,865; replicated in 2013 cohort, N=7,894). We find (1) the attacks initially boosted Muslim acceptance; (2) the magnitude of the initial Muslim acceptance boost was similar across the political spectrum; (3) no changes were observed in negative control groups; and (4) two- and three-year effects varied by baseline political orientation: liberal acceptance was stable, conservative acceptance grew relative to the counterfactual trend. Overall, the attacks added five years of growth in Muslim acceptance, with no regression to preattack levels over time. Continued growth among conservatives highlights the attack’s failure to divide society. These results demonstrate the utility of combining methods for causal inference with national-scale panel data to answer psychological questions of basic human concern.
Preventable deaths involving opioids in England and Wales, 2013–2022: a systematic case series of coroners’ reports
Authors: Dernie Francesco , France Harrison S , Thomas Elizabeth T , Bilip Maja , DeVito Nicholas J , Ferner Robin E , Cox Anthony R , Heneghan Carl , Aronson Jeffrey K , Richards Georgia C
Published: August 2023

Background

Opioid deaths have increased in England and Wales. Coroners’ Prevention of Future Deaths reports (PFDs) provide important insights that may enable safer use and avert harms, yet reports implicating opioids have not been synthesized. We aimed to identify opioid-related PFDs and explore coroners’ concerns to prevent future deaths.

Methods

In this systematic case series, we screened 3897 coronial PFDs dated between 01 July 2013 and 23 February 2022, obtained by web scraping the UK’s Courts and Tribunals Judiciary website. PFDs were included when an opioid was implicated in the death. Included PFDs were descriptively analysed, and content analysis was used to assess concerns reported by coroners.

Results

Opioids were involved in 219 deaths reported in PFDs (5·6% of PFDs), equating to 4418 years of life lost (median 33 years/person). Morphine (29%), methadone (23%) and diamorphine (16%) were the most common implicated opioids. Coroners most frequently raised concerns regarding systems and protocols (52%) or safety issues (15%). These concerns were most often addressed to National Health Service (NHS) organizations (51%), but response rates were low overall (47%).

Conclusions

Opioids could be used more safely if coroners’ concerns in PFDs were addressed by national organizations such as NHS bodies, government agencies and policymakers, as well as individual prescribing clinicians.
On the Use of Outcome Tests for Detecting Bias in Decision Making
Authors: Canay Ivan A , Mogstad Magne , Mountjoy Jack
Published: August 2023

The decisions of judges, lenders, journal editors, and other gatekeepers often lead to significant disparities across affected groups. An important question is whether, and to what extent, these group-level disparities are driven by relevant differences in underlying individual characteristics or by biased decision makers. Becker (1957, 1993) proposed an outcome test of bias based on differences in post-decision outcomes across groups, inspiring a large and growing empirical literature. The goal of our paper is to offer a methodological blueprint for empirical work that seeks to use outcome tests to detect bias. We show that models of decision making underpinning outcome tests can be usefully recast as Roy models, since heterogeneous potential outcomes enter directly into the decision maker’s choice equation. Different members of the Roy model family, however, are distinguished by the tightness of the link between potential outcomes and decisions. We show that these distinctions have important implications for defining bias, deriving logically valid outcome tests of such bias, and identifying the marginal outcomes that the test requires.
Familial Risk for Schizophrenia vs Bipolar Disorder and Task-Based Neural Activation: A functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rupert Petra E , Pogue-Geile Michael
Published: August 2023

Background and Hypothesis

Individuals at familial risk for developing schizophrenia (FRSZ) or bipolar disorder (FRBD) have shared and unique genetic risks. Few studies have compared neural activation between these two groups. Therefore, the present meta-analysis investigated functional brain similarities and differences between FRSZ and FRBD individuals.

Study Design

A systematic literature review was conducted of articles that compared FRSZ or FRBD individuals to healthy controls (31 FRSZ and 22 FRBD). Seed-based d mapping was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Analyses included comparisons of FRSZ to controls, FRBD to controls, and both relative groups to each other.

Study Results

Using a highly conservative family-wise error rate correction, there were no significant findings. Using a less conservative threshold, FRSZ compared to controls had lower activation in the left precuneus (Puncorrected = .02) across all studies and in the left middle frontal gyrus (Puncorrected = .03) in nonsocial cognition studies. FRBD compared to controls had lower activation in the left superior parietal gyrus (Puncorrected = .03) and right angular gyrus (Puncorrected = .03) in nonsocial cognition studies, and higher activation in the left superior frontal gyrus (Puncorrected = .01) in social tasks. Differences between FRSZ and FRBD were not significant.

Conclusions

There were few robust differences between FRSZ or FRBD compared to controls. This suggests only weak support for neural activation differences between individuals at genetic risk for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and controls. The tentative findings observed were in different brain regions for FRSZ and FRBD, with no strong evidence for shared effects between schizophrenia and bipolar genetic risk on neural activation.
Sleep apnea multi-level surgery trial: long-term observational outcomes
Authors: Pinczel Alison J , Woods Charmaine M , Catcheside Peter G , Woodman Richard J , Carney Andrew Simon , Chai-Coetzer Ching Li , Chia Michael , Cistulli Peter A , Hodge John-Charles , Jones Andrew , Lam Matthew E , Lewis Richard , McArdle Nigel , Ooi Eng H , Rea Siobhan Clare , Rees Guy , Singh Bhajan , Stow Nicholas , Yeo Aeneas , Antic Nick , McEvoy Ronald Doug , Weaver Edward M , MacKay Stuart G
Published: August 2023

Study Objectives

The sleep apnea multi-level surgery (SAMS) randomized clinical trial showed surgery improved outcomes at 6 months compared to ongoing medical management in patients with moderate or severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who failed continuous positive airway pressure therapy. This study reports the long-term outcomes of the multi-level surgery as a case series.

Methods

Surgical participants were reassessed >2 years postoperatively with the same outcomes reported in the main SAMS trial. Primary outcomes were apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), with secondary outcomes including other polysomnography measures, symptoms, quality of life, and adverse events. Long-term effectiveness (baseline to long-term follow-up [LTFU]) and interval changes (6 month to LTFU) were assessed using mixed effects regression models. Control participants were also reassessed for rate of subsequent surgery and outcomes.

Results

36/48 (75%) of surgical participants were reevaluated (mean (standard deviation)) 3.5 (1.0) years following surgery, with 29 undergoing polysomnography. AHI was 41/h (23) at preoperative baseline and 21/h (18) at follow-up, representing persistent improvement of −24/h (95% CI −32, −17; p < 0.001). ESS was 12.3 (3.5) at baseline and 5.5 (3.9) at follow-up, representing persistent improvement of −6.8 (95% CI −8.3, −5.4; p < 0.001). Secondary outcomes were improved long term, and adverse events were minor. Interval change analysis suggests stability of outcomes. 36/43 (84%) of the control participants were reevaluated, with 25 (69%) reporting subsequent surgery, with symptom and quality of life improvements.

Conclusion

Multi-level upper airway surgery improves OSA burden with long-term maintenance of treatment effect in adults with moderate or severe OSA in whom conventional therapy failed.

Clinical Trial

Multi-level airway surgery in patients with moderate-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who have failed medical management to assess change in OSA events and daytime sleepiness; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=366019&isReview=true; ACTRN12614000338662.
Rest-activity rhythms across the lifespan: cross-sectional findings from the US representative National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Wallace Danielle A , Johnson Dayna A , Redline Susan , Sofer Tamar , Kossowsky Joe
Published: August 2023

Study Objectives

Rest-activity rhythms (RAR) may mark development, aging, and physical and mental health. Understanding how they differ between people may inform intervention and health promotion efforts. However, RAR characteristics across the lifespan have not been well-studied. Therefore, we investigated the association between RAR measures with demographic and lifestyle factors in a US nationally representative study.

Methods

RAR metrics of interdaily stability (IS), intradaily variability (IV), relative amplitude (RA), and mean amplitude and timing of high (M10) and low (L5) activity were derived from 2011 to 2012 and 2013 to 2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) actigraphy data. Population-weighted linear and logistic regression models were fit to examine the associations of age, gender, smoking, alcohol, season, body mass index (BMI), income-to-poverty ratio, and race/ethnicity with RAR. Significance was based on a false-discovery rate-corrected P-value of <0.05.

Results

Among n = 12 526 NHANES participants (3–≥80 years), IS (higher = greater day-to-day regularity) and RA (higher = greater rhythm strength) generally decreased with age and were lower among males, whereas IV (higher = greater rhythm fragmentation) increased with age (p < 0.05). Dynamic changes in RAR trajectories were observed during childhood and adolescence. Income, BMI, smoking, and alcohol use were associated with RAR metrics, as well as season among children and teenagers (p < 0.05). RAR also differed by race/ethnicity (p < 0.05), with trajectories initially diverging in childhood and continuing into adulthood.

Conclusions

RAR differed by demographic and health-related factors, representing possible windows for public health intervention and sleep health promotion. RAR differences by race/ethnicity begin in childhood, are evident in early adolescence, and persist throughout adulthood.
Postinfection Application of Fenhexamid at Lower Doses in Conjunction with Captan Slowed Fungicide Resistance Selection in Botrytis cinerea on Detached Grape Berries
Authors: Boushell Stephen C. , Hu Mengjun
Published: August 2023

Fungicide resistance is a limiting factor in sustainable crop production. General resistance management strategies such as rotation and mixtures of fungicides with different modes of action have been proven to be effective in many studies, but guidance on fungicide dose or application timing for resistance management remains unclear or debatable. In this study, Botrytis cinerea and the high-risk fungicide fenhexamid were used to determine the effects of fungicide dose, mixing partner, and application timing on resistance selection across varied frequencies of resistance via detached fruit assays. The results were largely consistent with the recent modeling studies that favored the use of the lowest effective fungicide dose for improved resistance management. In addition, even 10% resistant B. cinerea in the population led to about a 40% reduction of fenhexamid efficacy. Overall, our findings show that application of doses less than the fungicide label dose, mixture with the low-risk fungicide captan, and application postinfection seem to be the most effective management strategies in our controlled experimental settings. This somewhat contradicts the previous assumption that preventative sprays help resistance management.
Applications of Germicidal Ultraviolet Light as a Tool for Fire Blight Management (Erwinia amylovora) in Apple Plantings
Authors: Yannuzzi Isabella M. , Gadoury David M. , Davidson Alexandra , Cox Kerik D.
Published: August 2023

Nighttime applications of germicidal UV light (UV-C) have been used to suppress several fungal diseases of plants, but less is known of UV-C's potential to suppress bacterial plant pathogens. Fire blight of apple and pear, caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora, is difficult to suppress using cultural practices, antibiotics, and host resistance. We therefore investigated the potential of UV-C as an additional means to manage the disease. Laboratory assays confirmed that in vitro exposure of cultures E. amylovora to UV-C at doses ranging from 0 to 400 J/m2 in the absence of visible light was more than 200% as effective as cultures exposed to visible light after the same UV-C treatments. In a 2-year orchard study, we demonstrated that with only two nighttime applications of UV-C at 200 J/m2 made at bloom resulted in an incidence of blossom blight and shoot blight equivalent to the results viewed when antibiotic and biopesticide commercial standards were applied. In vitro dose-response studies indicated consistency in pathogen response to suppressive UV-C doses, including pathogen isolates that were resistant to streptomycin. Based on these results, UV-C may be useful in managing bacterial populations with antibiotic resistance. Concurrent measurements of host growth after UV-C applications indicated that the dose required to suppress E. amylovora had no significant ( P > 0.05) effects on foliar growth, shoot extension, internode length, or fruit finish but substantially reduced epiphytic populations of E. amylovora on host tissues.
Activation of the inflammasome drives peritoneal deterioration in a mouse model of peritoneal fibrosis
Authors: Kadoya Hiroyuki , Hirano Akira , Umeno Reina , Kajimoto Eriko , Iwakura Tsukasa , Kondo Megumi , Wada Yoshihisa , Kidokoro Kengo , Kishi Seiji , Nagasu Hajime , Sasaki Tamaki , Taniguchi Shun’ichiro , Takahashi Masafumi , Kashihara Naoki
Published: August 2023

During peritoneal dialysis (PD), the peritoneum is exposed to a bioincompatible dialysate, deteriorating the tissue and limiting the long‐term effectiveness of PD. Peritoneal fibrosis is triggered by chronic inflammation induced by a variety of stimuli, including peritonitis. Exposure to PD fluid alters peritoneal macrophages phenotype. Inflammasome activation triggers chronic inflammation. First, it was determined whether inflammasome activation causes peritoneal deterioration. In the in vivo experiments, the increased expression of the inflammasome components, caspase‐1 activity, and concomitant overproduction of IL‐1β and IL‐18 were observed in a mouse model of peritoneal fibrosis. ASC‐positive and F4/80‐positive cells colocalized in the subperitoneal mesothelial cell layer. These macrophages expressed high CD44 levels indicating that the CD44‐positive macrophages contribute to developing peritoneal deterioration. Furthermore, intravital imaging of the peritoneal microvasculature demonstrated that the circulating CD44‐positive leukocytes may contribute to peritoneal fibrosis. Bone marrow transplantation in ASC‐deficient mice suppressed inflammasome activation, thereby attenuating peritoneal fibrosis in a high glucose‐based PD solution‐injected mouse model. Our results suggest inflammasome activation in CD44‐positive macrophages may be involved in developing peritoneal fibrosis. The inflammasome‐derived pro‐inflammatory cytokines might therefore serve as new biomarkers for developing encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis.