bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partial Meal Replacement for Weight Loss after Stroke: Results of a Pilot Clinical Trial
Authors: Dearborn Tomazos Jennifer , Viscoli Catherine , Amin Hardik , Lovelett Laurel Jean , Rivera Jessica , Gull Anum , Kernan Walter N.
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Over half of patients with acute ischemic stroke are overweight or obese as defined by a body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2. Professional and government agencies recommend weight management for these persons to improve risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, vascular inflammation, and diabetes. However, approaches to weight loss have not been adequately tested specifically in patients with stroke. In anticipation of a larger trial with vascular or functional outcomes, we tested the feasibility and safety of a 12-week partial meal replacement (PMR) intervention for weight loss in overweight or obese patients with a recent ischemic stroke. Methods: This randomized open-label trial enrolled participants from December 2019 to February 2021 (with hiatus from March to August 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on research). Eligible patients had a recent ischemic stroke and BMI 27–49.9 kg/m2. Patients were randomized to a PMR diet (OPTAVIA® Optimal Weight 4 & 2 & 1 Plan®) plus standard care (SC) or SC alone. The PMR diet consisted of four meal replacements supplied to participants, two meals with lean protein and vegetables (self-prepared or supplied), and a healthy snack (also self-prepared or supplied). The PMR diet provided 1,100–1,300 calories per day. SC consisted of one instructional session on a healthy diet. Co-primary outcomes were ≥5% weight loss at 12 weeks and to identify barriers to successful weight loss among participants assigned to PMR. Safety outcomes included hospitalization, falls, pneumonia, or hypoglycemia requiring treatment by self or others. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, study visits after August 2020 were by remote communication. Results: We enrolled 38 patients from two institutions. Two patients in each arm were lost and could not be included in outcome analyses. At 12 weeks, 9/17 patients in the PMR group and 2/17 patients in the SC group achieved ≥5% weight loss (52.9% vs. 11.9%; Fisher’s exact p = 0.03). Mean percent weight change in the PMR group was −3.0% (SD 13.7) and −2.6% (SD 3.4) in the SC group (Wilcoxon rank-sum p = 0.17). No adverse events were attributed to study participation. Some participants had difficulty completing home monitoring of weight. In the PMR group, participants reported that food cravings and dislike for some food products were barriers to weight loss. Conclusion: A PMR diet after ischemic stroke is feasible, safe, and effective for weight loss. In future trials, in-person or improved remote outcome monitoring may reduce anthropometric data variation.
Photon Counting Detector Computed Tomography: A New Frontier of Myeloma Bone Disease Evaluation
Authors: Cook Joselle , Rajendran Kishore , Ferrero Andrea , Dhillon Preet , Kumar Shaji , Baffour Francis
Published: June 2023

Photon counting detector (PCD) computed tomography (CT) is a paradigm-shifting innovation in CT imaging which was recently granted approval for clinical use by the US Food and Drug Administration. PCD-CT allows the generation of multi-energy images with increased contrast and scanning speed or ultra-high spatial resolution (UHR) images with lower radiation doses, compared to the currently used energy integrating detector (EID) CT. Since the recognition of bone disease related to multiple myeloma is important for the diagnosis and management of patients, the advent of PCD-CT heralds a new era in superior diagnostic evaluation of myeloma bone disease. In a first-in-human pilot study, patients with multiple myeloma were imaged with UHR-PCD-CT to validate and establish the utility of this technology in routine imaging and clinical care. We describe 2 cases from that cohort to highlight the superior imaging performance and diagnostic potential of PCD-CT for multiple myeloma compared to clinical standard EID-CT. We also discuss how the advanced imaging capabilities from PCD-CT enhances clinical diagnostics to improve care and overall outcomes for patients.
Efficacy and Safety of Low-Dose Apatinib Combined with Chemotherapy as Second-Line Treatment for Advanced Gastric Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Liang , Li Juyuan , Chen Huamin
Published: June 2023

Introduction: At present, there are several studies on low-dose apatinib combined with chemotherapy as a second-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer (AGC), but the conclusions are controversial. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-dose apatinib combined with chemotherapy as a second-line treatment of AGC. Methods: Nine databases were searched for records on apatinib combined with chemotherapy in treating AGC from inception to June 2022. The observation group received low-dose apatinib combined with chemotherapy, while the controls received chemotherapy alone or other non-placebo treatments. Outcomes included objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and adverse events. The relative risk (RR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were used as effect sizes. Results: Eight studies involving 679 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the observation group was superior to the controls in terms of ORR (RR = 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05–1.81, p = 0.02), DCR (RR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.20–1.53, p < 0.001), OS (WMD = 4.72, 95% CI: 0.71–8.72, p < 0.001), and PFS (WMD = 2.67, 95% CI: 1.7–3.63, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups in adverse events of any grade except hypertension (RR = 2.82, 95% CI: 2.07–3.84, p < 0.001), hand-mouth syndrome (RR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.84–2.48, p < 0.001), and proteinuria (RR = 3.63, 95% CI: 2.31–5.7, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Low-dose apatinib combined with chemotherapy as a second-line therapy is more effective in improving the efficacy of AGC compared to chemotherapy alone. However, this option has the potential to increase the risk of hypertension, hand-mouth syndrome, and proteinuria.
Therapeutic Benefits of Melatonin against COVID-19
Authors: Mubashshir Muhammad , Ahmad Nabeel , Negi Tripti , Rawal Renu , Singhvi Nirjara , Khatoon Hina , Laxmi Vijya , Dubey Om , Sharma Renu Bala , Negi Ganga , Ovais Mohd
Published: June 2023

The assumption of the pineal hormone melatonin as a therapeutic use for COVID-19-affected people seems promising. Its intake has shown significant improvement in the patients’ conditions. Higher melatonin titers in children may provide a protective shield against this disease. The hormone melatonin works as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulator, and strategically slows down the cytokine release which is observed in the COVID-19 disease, thereby improving the overall health of afflicted patients. The medical community is expected shortly to use remedial attributes like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antivirals, etc., of melatonin in the successful prevention and cure of COVID-19 morbidity. Thus, the administration of melatonin seems auspicious in the cure and prevention of this COVID-19 fatality. Moreover, melatonin does not seem to reduce the efficiency of approved vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Melatonin increases the production of inflammatory cytokines and Th1 and enhances both humoral and cell-mediated responses. Through the enhanced humoral immunity, melatonin exhibits antiviral activities by suppressing multiple inflammatory products such as IL-6, IL1β, and tumor necrosis factor α, which are immediately released during lung injury of severe COVID-19. Hence, the novel use of melatonin along with other antivirals as an early treatment option against COVID-19 infection is suggested. Here, we have chalked out the invasion mechanisms and appropriate implications of the latest findings concerned with melatonin against the virus SARS-CoV-2. Nevertheless, within the setting of a clinical intervention, the promising compounds must go through a series of studies before their recommendation. In the clinical field, this is done in a time-ordered sequence, in line with the phase label affixed to proper protocol of trials: phase I–phase II and the final phase III. Nevertheless, while medical recommendations can only be made on the basis of reassuring evidence, there are still three issues worth considering before implementation: representativeness, validity, and lastly generalizability.
Trends of Concomitant Diabetes and Peripheral Artery Disease and Lower Extremity Amputation in US Medicare Patients, 2007 to 2019
Authors: Fowler Xavier P. , Eid Mark A. , Barnes J. Aaron , Gladders Barbara , Austin Andrea M. , Goodney Eric J. , Moore Kayla O. , Kearing Stephen , Feinberg Mark W. , Bonaca Marc P. , Creager Mark A. , Goodney Philip P.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Previous studies demonstrate geographic and racial/ethnic variation in diagnosis and complications of diabetes and peripheral artery disease (PAD). However, recent trends for patients diagnosed with both PAD and diabetes are lacking. We assessed the period prevalence of concurrent diabetes and PAD across the United States from 2007 to 2019 and regional and racial/ethnic variation in amputations among Medicare patients.

Methods:

Using Medicare claims from 2007 to 2019, we identified patients with both diabetes and PAD. We calculated period prevalence of concomitant diabetes and PAD and incident cases of diabetes and PAD for every year. Patients were followed to identify amputations, and results were stratified by race/ethnicity and hospital referral region.

Results:

9 410 785 patients with diabetes and PAD were identified (mean age, 72.8 [SD, 10.94] years; 58.6% women, 74.7% White, 13.2% Black, 7.3% Hispanic, 2.8% Asian/API, and 0.6% Native American). Period prevalence of diabetes and PAD was 23 per 1000 beneficiaries. We observed a 33% relative decrease in annual new diagnoses throughout the study. All racial/ethnic groups experienced a similar decline in new diagnoses. Black and Hispanic patients had on average a 50% greater rate of disease compared with White patients. One- and 5-year amputation rates remained stable at ≈1.5% and 3%, respectively. Native American, Black, and Hispanic patients were at greater risk of amputation compared with White patients at 1- and 5-year time points (5-year rate ratio range, 1.22–3.17). Across US regions, we observed differential amputation rates, with an inverse relationship between the prevalence of concomitant diabetes and PAD and overall amputation rates.

Conclusions:

Significant regional and racial/ethnic variation exists in the incidence of concomitant diabetes and PAD among Medicare patients. Black patients in areas with the lowest rates of PAD and diabetes are at disproportionally higher risk for amputation. Furthermore, areas with higher prevalence of PAD and diabetes have the lowest rates of amputation.
Measuring Attribution in Natural Language Generation Models
Authors: Rashkin Hannah , Nikolaev Vitaly , Lamm Matthew , Aroyo Lora , Collins Michael , Das Dipanjan , Petrov Slav , Tomar Gaurav Singh , Turc Iulia , Reitter David
Published: June 2023

Large neural models have brought a new challenge to natural language generation (NLG): It has become imperative to ensure the safety and reliability of the output of models that generate freely. To this end, we present an evaluation framework, Attributable to Identified Sources (AIS), stipulating that NLG output pertaining to the external world is to be verified against an independent, provided source. We define AIS and a two-stage annotation pipeline for allowing annotators to evaluate model output according to annotation guidelines. We successfully validate this approach on generation datasets spanning three tasks (two conversational QA datasets, a summarization dataset, and a table-to-text dataset). We provide full annotation guidelines in the appendices and publicly release the annotated data at https://github.com/google-research-datasets/AIS.
Evolutionary Algorithms for Parameter Optimization—Thirty
Years Later
Authors: Bäck Thomas H. W. , Kononova Anna V. , van Stein Bas , Wang Hao , Antonov Kirill A. , Kalkreuth Roman T. , de Nobel Jacob , Vermetten Diederick , de Winter Roy , Ye Furong
Published: June 2023

Thirty years, 1993–2023, is a huge time frame in science. We address some major developments in the field of evolutionary algorithms, with applications in parameter optimization, over these 30 years. These include the covariance matrix adaptation evolution strategy and some fast-growing fields such as multimodal optimization, surrogate-assisted optimization, multiobjective optimization, and automated algorithm design. Moreover, we also discuss particle swarm optimization and differential evolution, which did not exist 30 years ago, either. One of the key arguments made in the paper is that we need fewer algorithms, not more, which, however, is the current trend through continuously claiming paradigms from nature that are suggested to be useful as new optimization algorithms. Moreover, we argue that we need proper benchmarking procedures to sort out whether a newly proposed algorithm is useful or not. We also briefly discuss automated algorithm design approaches, including configurable algorithm design frameworks, as the proposed next step toward designing optimization algorithms automatically, rather than by hand.
Examining causes and characteristics of egg ejection behaviour in the American robin (Turdus migratorius)
Authors: Turner Abbigail M. , Sluis Victoria N. , Williams Emily J. , Benson Thomas J. , Ward Michael P. , Hauber Mark E.
Published: June 2023

American robins (Turdus migratorius) are among few hosts of parasitic brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) that frequently eject foreign eggs from their nests. However, we know little about some characteristics of the robins’ egg ejection process including its distance and direction. We used a novel technique (i.e., radio transmitters inserted into 3D-printed eggshells) to examine egg rejection in female robins as a function of model egg coloration (i.e., robin-mimetic blue, non-mimetic deep blue, and non-mimetic beige). Based on prior work, we predicted that female robins’ egg ejection decisions would be dependent on egg coloration. Accordingly, we found a significant effect of female identity (using nest identity as a proxy) and model egg colour on egg ejection, but neither predicted ejection distance or direction. Deep blue model eggs had shorter ejection latencies than beige eggs. Fully characterizing the egg ejection process will allow us to further understand the mechanisms and outcomes of egg ejection behaviours in host-parasite interactions.
Locked in: Australia’s COVID-19 Border Closures and the Right to Leave
Authors: Jefferies Regina , McAdam Jane
Published: June 2023

In March 2020, Australia became one of a handful of democratic states worldwide to adopt a blanket prohibition on the right of citizens to leave its territory, whether temporarily or permanently, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Health Regulations, which bind all members of the World Health Organization (‘WHO’), including Australia, provide an international legal framework to guide the public health response to the international spread of disease in a manner which respects human rights and fundamental freedoms. The right to freedom of movement in international human rights law is enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (‘ICCPR’), which Australia ratified in 1990. Although states can place restrictions on freedom of movement to protect public health, they must be appropriate to achieve their protective function, the least intrusive instrument which might achieve the desired result, and proportionate to the interest to be protected. This article argues that in adopting sweeping restrictions on outbound travel, Australia re-purposed aspects of its migration control regime—ordinarily employed to externalise its international border and prevent people from entering the country—in order to prevent Australian citizens and permanent residents from leaving Australia. The outbound travel restrictions further bypassed an analysis of the intrusiveness and proportionality of the measures themselves, and shifted the burden onto individuals to request an exemption where the regulation of exit proved overly intrusive or disproportionate in their particular circumstances. In examining parliamentary transcripts, press statements by government officials, and recently revealed data regarding outbound travel exemptions, this article raises serious questions regarding the legality of the restrictions over time and their implementation in light of international law.
Spinal Cord Injury Repair in a Rat Model via a Nanofibrous Scaffold Loaded with Illicium Verum Extract: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study
Authors: Jin Lingyun , Rohani Saeed
Published: June 2023

In the current study, illicium verum extract (IVE) was loaded into polycaprolacton/collagen nanofibrous scaffolds using electrospinningmethod. The produced membranes were characterized In Vitro. Spinal cord injury repair was evaluated in a rat model. In Vitro studies showed
that IVE-loaded polycaprolacton/collagen scaffolds were fibrous and prevented cellular death in oxidative stress conditions. In Vivo study showed that the developed scaffolds promoted locomotor function after 8 weeks of treatment.
Nanocarrier-Based Targeting of Cluster of Differentiation 44 for Treating Atherosclerosis: A Review
Authors: Wang Duo , Zhang Wenbin , Xu Dexin , Wang Wenhai , Liu Ying , Ding Jian
Published: June 2023

About a third of all deaths worldwide are associated with atherosclerosis. Reduction of the local inflammation at atherosclerotic plaques could serve as an attractive strategy for combating the sequels associated with atherosclerosis. Statins class of drugs exert direct anti-inflammatory
activities, however, higher doses are required for statins therapy due to their low bioavailabilities and potential side effects hence rendering them unrealistic. By creating intelligent nanostructures with a variety of functionalization, nanoparticles offer an excellent platform to cure atherosclerosis
at the molecular scale. Owing to significant advancements in technological inventions, targeted ligands spontaneously transit the circulation, overcome biological barriers, and reach the target lesion. In recent decades, CD44 has received extensive research attention for several cancer types,
where it controls tumor development and invasiveness. Whereas adhesion and migration are its primary activities, CD44 additionally has an impact on macrophage activation and localization, internalization, structural remodeling, proliferative, and apoptosis. As a result, CD44 is a potentially
useful target in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Recent research studies suggest that CD44 plays a role in incendiary ailments like atherosclerosis and aneurysm among humans. This review aims to explore nanocarriers based targeted CD44 therapeutic strategies for the treatment of
atherosclerosis to provide and stimulate further development and future translation in this area.
Amino-Modified Magnetic Nanoparticles Used in Exploring the Mechanism of CCL18-Induced H19 Upregulation that Promotes Breast Cancer Cell Invasion by Regulating the EZH2-Mediated Repression of E-Cadherin Expression
Authors: Jia Haixia , Sun Ruiyi , Jia Weijuan , Hu Yue , Gu Ran , Dong Jun , Tang Kun
Published: June 2023

The acceleration of Chemokine (C–C motif) ligand 18 (CCL18) and long noncoding RNA H19 expression is reportedly closely associated with breast cancer (BC) development and progression; however, the underlying mechanism and clinical value between CCL18 and H19 in BC remain unclear.
Hence, this study aimed to examine the expression and function of CCL18 and H19 in BC tissues and cells by real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and other methods. We also detected the binding of EZH2 and other proteins to H19 through nanomagnetic bead immunoprecipitation
and analyzed the roles of CCL18 and H19 in BC progression and their underlying mechanisms. Both CCL18 and H19 were upregulated in BC tissues and cell lines. High expression of CCL18 and EZH2 was closely associated with short survival in patients with BC. CCL18 or H19 silencing can prohibit
BC cell invasion. Moreover, CCL18 accelerated the invasiveness of BC cells dose-dependently, and its expression was positively related to H19 expression in BC tissues. CCL18 enhanced H19 expression, while H19 knockdown partially ameliorated CCL18-induced BC cell invasiveness. Mechanistically,
H19 can directly bind with EZH2 and mediate its accumulation at the promoter region of E-cadherin genes, consequently inhibiting E-cadherin expression. In conclusion, CCL18 promotes BC progression by enhancing H19 expression, and H19 overexpression suppresses E-cadherin expression via EZH2-mediated
inhibition. Thus, this study describes a potential biomarker for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of BC.
Preparation of Baicalein Long-Circulating Liposome and Its Effect on Bone Implantation in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Jing De-Bao , Yu Su-Ping , Zhuang Xiao-Hua , Cai Qing , Wang Kai
Published: June 2023

Gradual increase in blood glucose is the major characteristics of a metabolic disease like diabetes. Inflammatory microenvironment and diabetes induced osteoporosis seriously affect prognosis of patients that undergo bone implantation. Baicalein is a natural flavonoid compound with
hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory and other pharmacological functions. Clinically, the application of baicalein is hampered by inadequate solubility, low bioavailability and other shortcomings. In this report, we designed a long-circulating liposome for potential delivery of baicalein. The best
formula for long-circulating liposome preparation was obtained by screening excipients, viz., Phospholipids:Cholesterol= 10:1, Phospholipids:DSPEPEG2000 = 6:1 and Phospholipids:Baicalein= 5:1. Respectively, average size of liposomal particles and encapsulation rate were approximately 190 nm
and 91%. The drug release percentage within 24 h was 60%, amid being significantly better than that of the free drug. During in vivo pharmacokinetics experiment, we observed a significantly higher plasma baicalein concentration in mice of liposome group comparable to those in free drug
group amid consistency with the drug release observation. It was confirmed through in vivo studies that baicalein long-circulating liposomes could reduce blood glucose and pro-inflammatory factors in rats, thus improving the state of liver, kidney and pancreas in diabetic model rats
and significantly reversing diabetes induced osteoporosis.
Molecular Mechanism of Cyclin E1 in Lung Adenocarcinoma and Their Cellular Response
Authors: Zhao Ming , Tian Qing , Qiu Yonghui , Pei Yanbin , Wang Yuqi
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore the role and molecular mechanism of CCNE1 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). CCNE1 expression was analyzed in LUAD tissues and cell lines by GEPIA and qRT-PCR, and its correlation with patient survival was studied using TCGA. CCNE1 overexpression was tested for its effects on cellular functions. METTL3 was predicted as a downstream gene of CCNE1 and their correlation was analyzed in lung adenocarcinoma. MeRIP was used to measure the m6A level of CCNE1 mRNA 3′-UTR after METTL3 overexpression. Dual luciferase reporter gene experiments were conducted to determine the effect of METTL3 knockdown on CCNE1 activity. Recovery experiments were performed to evaluate the CCNE1-METTL3 regulation. CCNE1 was up-regulated in LUAD cells and tissues and linked to patient prognosis. Highly expressed CCNE1 increased LUAD proliferation. METTL3 was also highly expressed in LUAD tissues and positively correlated with CCNE1 expression. METTL3 reduced CCNE1 methylation and increased expression. Additionally, METTL3 overexpression partially reversed the inhibitory effect of CCNE1 silencing on LUAD cell proliferation. This study found that CCNE1 was markedly overexpressed in lung adenocarcinoma. METTL3 can inhibit the methylation level of CCNE1. Highly expressed CCNE1 can promote the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma.
PD-1 Combined with VEGF/VEGFR2 Inhibitors for the Re-Treatment of Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Xian , Li Yong , Qu Xin , Ye Yongsong , Du Xiaohua , Zhou Rui , Qu Yanchun , Zhu Yanjuan , Zhang Haibo
Published: June 2023

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma has a good prognosis with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) but recurrence occurs in 8–10% of patients, mostly in the form of distant metastases. Current systemic treatments for relapsed/metastatic (R/M) nasopharyngeal carcinoma are limited, resulting
in poor overall survival rates. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown some activity, but their small sample size and lack of overall survival data limit their effectiveness. This study reports a patient with R/M nasopharyngeal carcinoma who had a durable response to salvage therapy with
camrelizumab plus anlotinib, with no serious side effects and high quality of life. The combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and antivascular monoclonal antibodies may have a mechanism for enhancing the antitumor response. VEGF/VEGFR2 inhibitors combined with PD-1 inhibitors are being
clinically explored as a potential new treatment option for R/M nasopharyngeal carcinoma. These findings offer hope for the development of effective, tumor-specific treatments for patients with R/M nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Role of Winter Soil Moisture in Subsequent Summer Thermal Anomalies on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Lin Zouxing , Zuo Zhiyan , Wang Huan , You Qinglong , Xiao Dong , Zhang Kaiwen , Qiao Liang
Published: June 2023

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) exerts strong powerful thermal forcing, which plays a vital role in influencing weather–climate variations in Asia and even the Northern Hemisphere. However, the causes of thermal variation over the TP have not been fully revealed. Here, the role of winter soil moisture (SM) in subsequent summer thermal anomalies on the TP was investigated through multisource datasets for the period 1979–2014. Results indicate a significant positive relationship (r = 0.52) between winter SM and subsequent summer-mean surface air temperature (SAT). Further investigations show that more (less) winter SM results in abundant (deficient) atmospheric water vapor in subsequent summer owing to its persistence. Furthermore, Earth’s surface energy budget equation confirms that strengthened (weakened) surface downward longwave radiation caused by increased (decreased) water vapor is the dominant factor leading to SAT variations, even more significant for nocturnal SAT. The winter SM–atmospheric temperature positive relationship can extend from the surface to 200 hPa over the TP. In addition, the enhanced (weakened) atmospheric latent heat release associated with increased (decreased) water vapor content may be another important factor contributing to changes in atmospheric temperatures over the TP. Therefore, our results contribute to a better understanding of the effect of land–surface processes on thermal anomalies over the TP.

Significance Statement

Understanding the causes of thermal anomalies over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) is crucial for weather and climate variations, but the role of winter soil moisture (SM) in subsequent summer thermal effects is largely unknown. This study investigated the relationship between winter SM and thermal anomalies in subsequent summers on the TP. Results show that the above (below)-normal winter SM will cause warm (cold) atmospheric temperatures in the subsequent summer. The above (below)-normal winter SM anomalies bring increased (decreased) atmospheric water vapor in summer owing to its persistence, resulting in strengthened (weakened) downward longwave radiation and atmospheric latent heat release to heat (cool) the atmosphere.
Prevention Strategies for Policing Gun Violence
Authors: Braga Anthony A. , Cook Philip J. , Douglas Stephen
Published: June 2023

The police have the unique capacity to preempt and deter violence and to reduce the use of firearms in violent encounters. But overly aggressive policing tactics have contributed to a fraught relationship with low-income minority communities in which gun violence is heavily concentrated. Increased resources should be devoted to policing gun violence, but efforts of this sort must be targeted and disciplined. Effective policing requires a focus on the places and people that are at greatest risk; and there is a strong case for police agencies to increase the resources devoted to investigations of all criminal shootings, not just homicides. Successful policing of gun violence requires a productive working relationship with victims and their neighbors, which can be facilitated through observing community policing principles and respect for residents’ interests.
Economics and Public Health: Two Perspectives on Firearm Injury Prevention
Authors: Glasser Nathaniel J. , Pollack Harold A. , Ranney Megan L. , Betz Marian E.
Published: June 2023

Firearm injury is a major cause of death, disability, and other harms to community well-being across the U.S. Economics and public health offer two complementary perspectives to conceptualize gun violence and formulate strategies to mitigate related harms. Economics offers methods and procedures for tabulating costs of firearm injury and offers an explicit, albeit imperfect normative framework to evaluate proposed interventions. Economics’ focus on incentives, trade-offs, and resources constraints provides useful mechanisms for understanding illegal firearm markets and firearm use that can inform crime reduction efforts. Public health methods and interventions help to measure patterns of illness and disease, identify risks and protective factors, and inform prevention efforts for the most vulnerable individuals and communities. Public health also focuses attention on social determinants and structural factors in designing and evaluating interventions to prevent, address, and mitigate the consequences of gun violence.
Association Between Inflammatory Biomarkers and Contrast-induced Acute Kidney Injury in ACS Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Yang Zhanneng , Qiao Yong , Wang Dong , Yan Gaoliang , Tang Chengchun
Published: June 2023

The present study aimed to evaluate the predictive role of inflammatory biomarkers in the development of contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The inflammatory biomarkers assessed were: platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (dNLR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte*platelet ratio (NLPR), systemic inflammatory index (SII), and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI). Overall, 950 patients undergoing PCI were enrolled. The frequency of CI-AKI was 15.2% (n = 144). The levels of NLR, MLR, NLPR, SII, and SIRI were higher in the CI-AKI group than in the Non–CI-AKI group (P < .05). The addition of NLR ≥2.96, dNLR ≥2.08, NLPR ≥.012, SII ≥558.04, and SIRI ≥1.13 to the Mehran score model significantly increased the area under the curve (P < .05). Multivariable logistic regression analyses indicated that inflammatory biomarkers were significantly associated with CI-AKI, including NLR ≥2.96 (OR = 1.588, P = .017), dNLR ≥2.08 (OR = 1.686, P = .007), SII ≥558.04 (OR = 1.521, P = .030), and SIRI ≥1.13 (OR = 1.601, P = .017). Therefore, inflammation is associated with the development of CI-AKI, and preoperative hematological inflammatory markers could predict the risk of CI-AKI in ACS patients undergoing PCI.
A Victorian taste of Italy: Situating the “Italian-Swiss Colony” in California wine culture
Authors: Monserrati Michele
Published: June 2023

The article focuses on Andrea Sbarboro's (1839–1923) Italian-Swiss Colony of Asti in Sonoma County and the success of his winemaking company created in 1881. By exploring the relationship between the symbolic space of the vineyard (which I refer to as a ‘winescape’) and the predominant racial narratives of the time in California, I argue that Sbarboro created an Italian space in which Italian Americans could be recognized as ‘white.’ Sbarboro's representations of winemaking as a tradition rooted in Greek/Roman civilization appealed to a Victorian cultural elite that intended to project a Classical and imperialist aesthetic into California. Even today, it is still possible to find in Sonoma and Napa Valley Italian American winemakers that link their business to a similar aesthetic with the unintended result of excising from the landscape non-white contributions to the history of winemaking in California.
Supporting advancement of lab animal welfare and scientific integrity in developing countries: ACURET Cage Consortium (ACCON) Project
Authors: Fakoya Francis-Adelade GO
Published: June 2023

Research involving animals remains an essential tool to increase our understanding of how human and animal bodies work; how diseases affect them and the safety assessment of chemicals, such as pesticides, for their possible effects on human health or the environment; and how diseases can be prevented or treated via developing and testing medicines and vaccines for humans or animals. To achieve high quality science based on animal manipulations and experimentations from developing countries, adequate welfare of the lab animals needs to become sine qua non for all concerned.

ACURET.ORG is in the forefront of promoting humane animal care and use for scientific purposes in developing countries, with focus on Africa, seeking to aid and facilitate aspects of Institutional Lab Animal programmes in addition to its training and education programmes in the last 11 years since its inception and incorporation eight years ago. ACURET has embarked upon a project tagged ‘ACURET Cage Consortium Project’, the provision of re-usable ‘open-top’ cages for mice and rats in place of the many varied artificial housing materials being used to hold such animals in many facilities in Africa. ACURET is seeking old but functional cages and accessories, still ‘fit for purpose’; other animal husbandry and research equipment, as donations from institutions and industry for distribution to institutions in Africa who require them to improve their lab animal welfare programme.

With a phased funding support from Laboratory Animal Ltd., ACURET will be responsible for the collection of donated items from locations, re-package them for sea-shipping to NIMR in Lagos, from where they will be distributed to successful applying institutional animal facilities, on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.

At the heart of the ACURET Cage Consortium Project is the enablement of researchers in Africa to engage in the essence of their research when the welfare of the laboratory animals they care for and use has been affirmed. Ultimately, we anticipate that the project will support raising the bar on Africans skilled in humane animal care and use for scientific purposes in developing countries.
Self-Efficacy and Well-Being in Professionals Working in Intimate Partner Violence: Recovery Experiences and Burnout as Associated Variables
Authors: Beltrán-Morillas Ana M , Sánchez-Hernández M Dolores , Herrera M Carmen , Villanueva-Moya Laura , Expósito Francisca
Published: June 2023

The negative consequences of intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) are observed not only in the victims but also in the professionals who work in this field. Self-efficacy has been observed as a significant variable in the perception of work efficiency and general well-being, and in coping with work-related stress and burnout syndrome. Thus, we performed a correlational study ( N = 200) to examine the mediating role of recovery experiences and emotional exhaustion in the relationship between self-efficacy and psychological well-being in these professionals. The mediating analyses revealed that self-efficacy was related to higher levels of well-being through its effects on the increase in recovery experiences and the decrease in burnout levels. These findings emphasize the need to develop intervention programs aimed at improving self-efficacy these professionals. This is necessary to improve their employment situations, increase their health, and optimize both institutional resources and the quality of the services offered.
Structural and Cognitive Social Capital of Older Korean Adults and Their Relationship with Depression Trajectories: Latent Class and Growth Curve Analyses
Authors: Kim Jinhyun , Um Sun-Bi , Shi Xiang
Published: June 2023

This study examined whether the identified latent classes of structural and cognitive social capital are differently associated with depression trajectories in older Korean adults. From the five waves (2006, 2009, 2012, 2015, and 2018) of the Korean Welfare Panel Study, 3,606 participants aged ≥65 were analyzed. The latent class analysis identifies structural and cognitive social capital subgroups. Latent growth curve analysis examined the latent classes’ effect on depression trajectories. Three classes were identified: medium-structural and high-cognitive (Class 1), high-structural and cognitive (Class 2), and low-structural and cognitive (Class 3). Classes 1 and 2 showed lower depression at baseline; however, the trajectory change rate was opposite than Class 3. Compared to Classes 1 and 2, depression was highest at baseline but with a slower change rate in Class 3. Therefore, it is important to identify older adults’ structural and cognitive social capital classes to depression trajectories.
Event-based asynchronous dissipative control for nonhomogeneous Markov jump systems
Authors: Li Hongchao , Xu Zhuo , Zhou Tianwei , Liu Yang
Published: June 2023

In this paper, the problem of the asynchronous dissipative control is investigated for a class of discrete-time nonhomogeneous Markov jump systems. Hidden Markov model is introduced to represent the asynchronization between the designed controller and the system. On the contrary, the mode-dependent event-triggered mechanism is formulated to alleviate the burden of data transmission in the communication channel. The Lyapunov function, which is dependent on both mode and uncertain parameters, is considered to obtain the sufficient conditions that make the system with strictly [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-dissipative performance. Moreover, gains of the mode-dependent controller and coefficients of the event-triggered mechanism can be co-designed simultaneously. Finally, illustrative simulation and practical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Content Acquisition Podcasts vs Open-Access Podcast: Improving Preservice Physical Educators’ Ability to Teach Students With Visual Impairments
Authors: McNamara Scott , Brian Ali , Patey Matthew , Bittner Melissa
Published: June 2023

Children with visual impairments (VI) have numerous and well-documented health disparities that negatively impact their quality of life. Although physical education should serve as an avenue to reduce these disparities, physical educators often report being unprepared to work with children with VI. Physical education undergraduate programs also struggle to adequately address issues related to teaching children with disabilities. Hence, it is imperative that educational tools are identified that can more efficiently imbue the knowledge and skills related teaching children with VI in a physical education setting. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two types of educational podcasts (i.e., content acquisition podcasts and open-access podcasts) on preservice physical educators' knowledge and self-efficacy around teaching students with VI. The CAPs group had significantly higher knowledge gains compared to the control group but was non-significantly higher than the open-access group. The CAPs group significantly improved self-efficacy compared with the open-access and control groups. Implications for future research and suggestions for the use of educational podcasts within college and university settings are discussed.
Mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) measurement usage among children with disabilities: A systematic review
Authors: Hayes Julia , Quiring Michael , Kerac Marko , Smythe Tracey , Tann Cally J , Groce Nora , Gultie Zerihun , Nyesigomwe Lydia , DeLacey Emily
Published: June 2023

Background: Anthropometric measurements, including mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), are used for monitoring and evaluating children's nutritional status. Evidence is limited on optimal nutritional assessment for children with disabilities, who are at high risk for malnutrition. Aim: This study describes MUAC use among children with disabilities. Methods: Four databases (Embase, Global Health, Medline, and CINHAL) were searched from January 1990 through September 2021 using a predefined search strategy. Of the 305 publications screened, 32 papers were included. Data included children 6 months to 18 years old with disabilities. Data including general study characteristics, methods for MUAC measurement, terminology, and measurement references were extracted into Excel. Due to heterogeneity of the data, a narrative synthesis was used. Results: Studies from 24 countries indicate that MUAC is being used as part of nutritional assessment, but MUAC measurement methods, references, and cutoffs were inconsistent. Sixteen (50%) reported MUAC as a mean ± standard deviation (SD), 11 (34%) reported ranges or percentiles, 6 (19%) reported z-scores, and 4 (13%) used other methods. Fourteen (45%) studies included both MUAC and weight-for-height but nonstandard reporting limited comparability of the indicators for identifying those at risk of malnutrition. Conclusion: Although its speed, simplicity, and ease of use afford MUAC great potential for assessing children with disabilities, more research is needed to understand its appropriateness, and how it performs at identifying nutritionally high-risk children in comparison to other measures. Without validated inclusive measures to identify malnutrition and monitor growth and health, millions of children could have severe consequences for their development.
Anti-Xa testing for pediatric and neonatal patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Meshulami Noy , Green Robert , Kaushik Shubhi
Published: June 2023

Introduction

To determine if anti-Xa testing is associated with improved outcomes for patients <19-years-old on ECMO.

Methods

We evaluated the clinical benefit of anti-Xa heparin monitoring utilizing the Bleeding and Thrombosis during ECMO (BATE) database of 514 patients <19-years-old. The BATE database includes incidences of bleeding, thrombosis, and mortality. The database also describes anti-coagulation test utilization. We grouped and analyzed patients based on ECMO indication (cardiac, respiratory, or extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation [E-CPR]) and age (neonatal vs pediatric). We constructed multivariable logistic regression models to analyze the impact of anti-Xa testing on mortality, bleeding, and thrombosis in each group.

Results

Across the entire population, anti-Xa testing did not have a significant effect on the incidence of mortality (43% with anti-Xa testing vs 49% without), bleeding (68% vs 74%), or thrombosis (37% vs 39%). However, among cardiac indicated patients on ECMO ( n = 207), anti-Xa testing was significantly associated with reduced odds ratio (OR) of mortality (adjusted OR 0.527, p = .040) and bleeding (adjusted OR 0.369, p = .021). In addition, among neonatal patients on ECMO ( n = 264), anti-Xa testing was associated with a significant reduction in the odds ratio of bleeding (adjusted OR 0.534, p = .046).

Conclusion

Anti-Xa testing is associated with improved outcomes among cardiac indicated and neonatal patients on ECMO. Additional research to find the optimal heparin monitoring regimen is needed to better support these critically ill patients. In the interim, we recommend clinicians consider utilizing anti-Xa assays as part of their heparin monitoring plan for neonatal and cardiac indicated patients on ECMO.
Integrated planning and control of robotic surgical instruments for task autonomy
Authors: Zhong Fangxun , Liu Yun-Hui
Published: June 2023

Agile maneuvers are essential for robot-enabled complex tasks such as surgical procedures. Prior explorations on surgery autonomy are limited to feasibility study of completing a single task without systematically addressing generic manipulation safety across different tasks. We present an integrated planning and control framework for 6-DoF robotic instruments for pipeline automation of surgical tasks. We leverage the geometry of a robotic instrument and propose the nodal state space to represent the robot state in SE (3) space. Each elementary robot motion could be encoded by regulation of the state parameters via a dynamical system. This theoretically ensures that every in-process trajectory is globally feasible and stably reached to an admissible target, and the controller is of closed-form without computing 6-DoF inverse kinematics. Then, to plan the motion steps reliably, we propose an interactive (instant) goal state of the robot that transforms manipulation planning through desired path constraints into a goal-varying manipulation (GVM) problem. We detail how GVM could adaptively and smoothly plan the procedure (could proceed or rewind the process as needed) based on on-the-fly situations under dynamic or disturbed environment. Finally, we extend the above policy to characterize complete pipelines of various surgical tasks. Simulations show that our framework could smoothly solve twisted maneuvers while avoiding collisions. Physical experiments using the da Vinci Research Kit validates the capability of automating individual tasks including tissue debridement, dissection, and wound suturing. The results confirm good task-level consistency and reliability compared to state-of-the-art automation algorithms.
Normal variations of the superior vena cava and azygos venous system depiction by CT scan in the adult Thai population
Authors: Chooprasert Supaporn , Nirattisaikul Sitang , Hongsakul Keerati , Choochuen Panjai , Pakdee Wisitsak
Published: June 2023

Background

Identification of normal variations to the thoracic central venous system anatomy is essential in radiological intervention and cardiothoracic surgery to prevent complications.

Purpose

To estimate the prevalence and pattern of normal variations of superior vena cava (SVC) and azygos venous system as well as factors associated with normal variations of SVC.

Material and Methods

Venous-phase chest CT of 1336 patients were retrospectively reviewed. Age, sex, and underlying disease were recorded. SVC diameter and cross-sectional area were measured to evaluate for associations with normal variations.

Results

The prevalence of normal anatomical variations of SVC and azygos venous system were 0.3% and 1.5%, respectively. Duplicated SVC was the most common variations. The most common variation for the azygos venous system was the connection between the hemiazygos and accessory hemiazygos veins draining into the left brachiocephalic vein (12/1336 cases, 0.9%). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) cross-sectional area compared between normal SVC (297.2 mm2) and duplicated SVC (223.5 mm2) showed a statistically significant difference ( P = 0.033).

Conclusion

This study determined the prevalence of rare normal variations of the azygos venous system, a connection between the hemiazygos and accessory hemiazygos veins draining into the left brachiocephalic vein. The prevalence of normal variations of the SVC and azygos venous system in the adult Thai population was similar with that of previous publications. Cross-sectional area was the only factor with a significant association with SVC variations.