bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole-Genome Comparison of Representatives of All Variants of SARS-CoV-2, Including Subvariant BA.2 and the GKA Clade
Authors: Suardana Ida B. K. , Mahardika Bayu K. , Pharmawati Made , Sudipa Putu H. , Sari Tri K. , Mahendra Nyoman B. , Mahardika Gusti N.
Published: March 2023

Since its discovery at the end of 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has rapidly evolved into many variants, including the subvariant BA.2 and the GKA clade. Genomic clarification is needed for better management of the current pandemic as well as the possible reemergence of novel variants. The sequence of the reference genome Wuhan-Hu-1 and approximately 20 representatives of each variant were downloaded from GenBank and GISAID. Two representatives with no track of in-definitive nucleotides were selected. The sequences were aligned using muscle. The location of insertion/deletion (indel) in the genome was mapped following the open reading frame (ORF) of Wuhan-Hu-1. The phylogeny of the spike protein coding region was constructed using the maximum likelihood method. Amino acid substitutions in all ORFs were analyzed separately. There are two indel sites in ORF1AB, eight in spike, and one each in ORF3A, matrix (MA), nucleoprotein (NP), and the 3′-untranslated regions (3′UTR). Some indel sites and residues/substitutions are not unique, and some are variant-specific. The phylogeny shows that Omicron, Deltacron, and BA2 are clustered together and separated from other variants with 100% bootstrap support. In conclusion, whole-genome comparison of representatives of all variants revealed indel patterns that are specific to SARS-CoV-2 variants or subvariants. Polymorphic amino acid comparison across all coding regions also showed amino acid residues shared by specific groups of variants. Finally, the higher transmissibility of BA.2 might be due at least in part to the 48 nucleotide deletions in the 3′UTR, while the seem-to-be extinction of GKA clade is due to the lack of genetic advantages as a consequence of amino acid substitutions in various genes.
Reservoir Characteristics and Gas Content of Black Shale of Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation in Qianjiang Area, Southeast Chongqing, China
Authors: Wu Bin
Published: March 2023

The shale gas exploration in Changning, Weiyuan, Fuling Jiaoshiba, and other areas has achieved great success in the Sichuan Basin, and the basin margin of the Sichuan Basin will be an important target in the future. In view of the lack of understanding of shale gas reservoir characteristics of the basin margin area of the Sichuan Basin, this paper conducts a study on reservoir characteristics and gas-bearing properties of this area using qualitative and quantitative techniques. The results show that the thickness of the black shale reservoir in the Qianjiang area is up to 33 m, the kerogen sapropelic type (I) is dominant, and Ro ranges from 2.2 wt% to 3.39 wt%. The mineral composition is relatively complex, mainly composed of quartz and clay minerals. Quartz content is in the range between 9.4 wt% and 79 wt% (

average
=
47.48
 
wt
%

), while clay content is in the range between 10.02 wt% and 43.6 wt% (

average
=
29.41
 
wt
%

). There are various types of reservoir spaces, mainly including organic pores dominated by matrix pores, intergranular and intragranular pores, intergranular and intragranular dissolution pores, secondary dissolution pores, and microfractures, among which organic pores are the main pore types. The pore volume of nanopores is 0.009897-0.017177 cm3/g (

average
=
0.01304
 
c

m

3

/
g

), and the specific surface area ranges from 12.1 m2/g to 35.1 m2/g (

average
=
20.47
 

m

2

/
g

). Micropores and mesopores are the main pore sizes for the development of organic pores. Quartz particles promote the development of reservoir space, while clay minerals are not conducive to the development of pores. The total gas content ranges from 0.5 m3/t to 4.43 m3/t (

average
=
1.69
 

m

3

/
t

). Its enrichment is controlled by many factors. The increase of organic matter abundance is the material basis for shale gas enrichment. The development of organic pores provides high-quality storage space for shale gas preservation. The development of different mineral components restricts the enrichment of shale gas.
Study on Stress Evolution and Crushing Behavior of Jointed Rock Mass under Confining Pressure and Joint Materials
Authors: Qirui Wang , Qihu Zhang , Liyun Yang , Fuli Kong , Chenxi Ding , Junqi Fan
Published: March 2023

To study the effects of confining pressure and joint material properties on stress evolution and fracture behavior of jointed rock mass under SHPB impact load, the numerical software LS-DYNA and the indoor SHPB impact system are used to carry out experimental research on intact rock mass and jointed rock mass. The peak stress, reflection and transmission coefficient, and specimen failure state of rock specimens under different schemes are obtained. The effects of confining pressure level and joint material properties on the propagation and attenuation law of explosive stress waves are expounded. The test results show that when the confining pressure is within a specific range, the impact resistance of the limestone specimen can be increased, and the more difficult it is to be destroyed. Moreover, if the confining pressure continues to increase after rising to the peak value, the impact resistance of rock specimens will decline. In that case, the impact resistance of the specimen will decrease—the dynamic strength of jointed rock mass changes with a change in joint material. The dynamic strength of cement jointed rock is the highest, that of gypsum jointed rock is the second, and that of epoxy resin jointed rock is the lowest. The impact damage resistance of the jointed rock has the same law as the above.
Predicting Individual Patient Platelet Demand in a Large Tertiary Care Hospital Using Machine Learning
Authors: Engelke Merlin , Brieske Christian Martin , Parmar Vicky , Flaschel Nils , Kureishi Anisa , Hosch Rene , Koitka Sven , Schmidt Cynthia Sabrina , Horn Peter A. , Nensa Felix
Published: March 2023

Introduction: An increasing shortage of donor blood is expected, considering the demographic change in Germany. Due to the short shelf life and varying daily fluctuations in consumption, the storage of platelet concentrates (PCs) becomes challenging. This emphasizes the need for reliable prediction of needed PCs for the blood bank inventories. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate multimodal data from multiple source systems within a hospital to predict the number of platelet transfusions in 3 days on a per-patient level. Methods: Data were collected from 25,190 (42% female and 58% male) patients between 2017 and 2021. For each patient, the number of received PCs, platelet count blood tests, drugs causing thrombocytopenia, acute platelet diseases, procedures, age, gender, and the period of a patient’s hospital stay were collected. Two models were trained on samples using a sliding window of 7 days as input and a day 3 target. The model predicts whether a patient will be transfused 3 days in the future. The model was trained with an excessive hyperparameter search using patient-level repeated 5-fold cross-validation to optimize the average macro F2-score. Results: The trained models were tested on 5,022 unique patients. The best-performing model has a specificity of 0.99, a sensitivity of 0.37, an area under the precision-recall curve score of 0.45, an MCC score of 0.43, and an F1-score of 0.43. However, the model does not generalize well for cases when the need for a platelet transfusion is recognized. Conclusion: A patient AI-based platelet forecast could improve logistics management and reduce blood product waste. In this study, we build the first model to predict patient individual platelet demand. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to introduce this approach. Our model predicts the need for platelet units for 3 days in the future. While sensitivity underperforms, specificity performs reliably. The model may be of clinical use as a pretest for potential patients needing a platelet transfusion within the next 3 days. As sensitivity needs to be improved, further studies should introduce deep learning and wider patient characterization to the methodological multimodal, multisource data approach. Furthermore, a hospital-wide consumption of PCs could be derived from individual predictions.
Exposure to Arterial Hyperoxia During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenator Support and Mortality in Patients With Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Jentzer Jacob C. , Miller P. Elliott , Alviar Carlos , Yalamuri Suraj , Bohman J. Kyle , Tonna Joseph E.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Exposure to hyperoxia, a high arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), may be associated with worse outcomes in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenator (ECMO) support. We examined hyperoxia in the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry among patients receiving venoarterial ECMO for cardiogenic shock.

Methods:

We included Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry patients from 2010 to 2020 who received venoarterial ECMO for cardiogenic shock, excluding extracorporeal CPR. Patients were grouped based on PaO2 after 24 hours of ECMO: normoxia (PaO2 60–150 mmHg), mild hyperoxia (PaO2 151–300 mmHg), and severe hyperoxia (PaO2 >300 mmHg). In-hospital mortality was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

Among 9959 patients, 3005 (30.2%) patients had mild hyperoxia and 1972 (19.8%) had severe hyperoxia. In-hospital mortality increased across groups: normoxia, 47.8%; mild hyperoxia, 55.6% (adjusted odds ratio, 1.37 [95% CI, 1.23–1.53];
P
<0.001); severe hyperoxia, 65.4% (adjusted odds ratio, 2.20 [95% CI, 1.92–2.52];
P
<0.001). A higher PaO2 was incrementally associated with increased in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 1.14 per 50 mmHg higher [95% CI, 1.12–1.16];
P
<0.001). Patients with a higher PaO2 had increased in-hospital mortality in each subgroup and when stratified by ventilator settings, airway pressures, acid-base status, and other clinical variables. In the random forest model, PaO2 was the second strongest predictor of in-hospital mortality, after older age.

Conclusions:

Exposure to hyperoxia during venoarterial ECMO support for cardiogenic shock is strongly associated with increased in-hospital mortality, independent from hemodynamic and ventilatory status. Until clinical trial data are available, we suggest targeting a normal PaO2 and avoiding hyperoxia in CS patients receiving venoarterial ECMO.
Practice Patterns and Outcomes Associated With Anticoagulation Use Following Sepsis Hospitalizations With New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Walkey Allan J. , Myers Laura C. , Thai Khanh K. , Kipnis Patricia , Desai Manisha , Go Alan S. , Lu Yun , Clancy Heather , Devis Ycar , Neugebauer Romain , Liu Vincent X.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Practice patterns and outcomes associated with the use of oral anticoagulation for arterial thromboembolism prevention following a hospitalization with new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) during sepsis are unclear.

Methods:

Retrospective, observational cohort study of patients ≥40 years of age discharged alive following hospitalization with new-onset AF during sepsis across 21 hospitals in the Kaiser Permanente Northern California health care delivery system, years 2011 to 2018. Primary outcomes were ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), with a safety outcome of major bleeding events, both within 1 year of discharge alive from sepsis hospitalization. Adjusted risk differences for outcomes between patients who did and did not receive oral anticoagulation within 30 days of discharge were estimated using marginal structural models fitted by inverse probability weighting using Super Learning within a target trial emulation framework.

Results:

Among 82 748 patients hospitalized with sepsis, 3992 (4.8%) had new-onset AF and survived to hospital discharge; mean age was 78±11 years, 53% were men, and 70% were White. Patients with new-onset AF during sepsis averaged 45±33% of telemetry monitoring entries with AF, and 27% had AF present on the day of hospital discharge. Within 1 year of hospital discharge, 89 (2.2%) patients experienced stroke/TIA, 225 (5.6%) had major bleeding, and 1011 (25%) died. Within 30 days of discharge, 807 (20%) patients filled oral anticoagulation prescriptions, which were associated with higher 1-year adjusted risks of ischemic stroke/TIA (5.69% versus 2.32%; risk difference, 3.37% [95% CI, 0.36–6.38]) and no significant difference in 1-year adjusted risks of major bleeding (6.51% versus 7.10%; risk difference, −0.59% [95% CI, −3.09 to 1.91]). Sensitivity analysis of ischemic stroke–only outcomes showed a risk difference of 0.15% (95% CI, −1.72 to 2.03).

Conclusions:

After hospitalization with new-onset AF during sepsis, oral anticoagulation use was uncommon and associated with potentially higher stroke/TIA risk. Further research to inform mechanisms of stroke and TIA and management of new-onset AF after sepsis is needed.
Eliminating Medication Copayments for Low-Income Older Adults at High Cardiovascular Risk: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Campbell David J.T. , Mitchell Chad , Hemmelgarn Brenda R. , Tonelli Marcello , Faris Peter , Zhang Jianguo , Tsuyuki Ross T. , Fletcher Jane , Au Flora , Klarenbach Scott , Exner Derek V. , Manns Braden J. ,   for the Interdisciplinary Chronic Disease Collaboration
Published: March 2023

Background:

One in eight people with heart disease has poor medication adherence that, in part, is related to copayment costs. This study tested whether eliminating copayments for high-value medications among low-income older adults at high cardiovascular risk would improve clinical outcomes.

Methods:

This randomized 2×2 factorial trial studied 2 distinct interventions in Alberta, Canada: eliminating copayments for high-value preventive medications and a self-management education and support program (reported separately). The findings for the first intervention, which waived the usual 30% copayment on 15 medication classes commonly used to reduce cardiovascular events, compared with usual copayment, is reported here. The primary outcome was the composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary revascularization, and cardiovascular-related hospitalizations over a 3-year follow-up. Rates of the primary outcome and its components were compared using negative binomial regression. Secondary outcomes included quality of life (Euroqol 5-dimension index score), medication adherence, and overall health care costs.

Results:

A total of 4761 individuals were randomized and followed for a median of 36 months. There was no evidence of statistical interaction (
P
=0.99) or of a synergistic effect between the 2 interventions in the factorial trial with respect to the primary outcome, which allowed us to evaluate the effect of each intervention separately. The rate of the primary outcome was not reduced by copayment elimination, (521 versus 533 events, incidence rate ratio 0.84 [95% CI, 0.66–1.07],
P
=0.162). The incidence rate ratio for nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and cardiovascular death (0.97 [95% CI, 0.67–1.39]), death (0.94 [95% CI, 0.80 to 1.11]), and cardiovascular-related hospitalizations (0.78 [95% CI, 0.57 to 1.06]) did not differ between groups. No significant between-group changes in quality of life over time were observed (mean difference, 0.012 [95% CI, –0.006 to 0.030],
P
=0.19). The proportion of participants who were adherent to statins was 0.72 versus 0.69 for the copayment elimination versus usual copayment groups, respectively (mean difference, 0.03 [95% CI, 0.006–0.06],
P
=0.016). Overall adjusted health care costs did not differ ($3575 [95% CI, –605 to 7168],
P
=0.098).

Conclusions:

In low-income adults at high cardiovascular risk, eliminating copayments (average, $35/mo) did not improve clinical outcomes or reduce health care costs, despite a modest improvement in adherence to medications.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02579655.
NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Bartoli‐Leonard Francesca , Zimmer Jonas , Sonawane Abhijeet R. , Perez Katelyn , Turner Mandy E. , Kuraoka Shiori , Pham Tan , Li Feifei , Aikawa Masanori , Singh Sasha , Brewster Luke , Aikawa Elena
Published: March 2023

Background

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is estimated to affect 7% of the adult population in the United States; however, there is currently little understanding of the key cellular and molecular pathways at play. With PAD characterized by vascular inflammation and associated calcification, the current study set out to elucidate the role of NLRP3 (nucleotide oligomerization domain‐like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3) inflammasome activation in the current cohort.

Methods and Results

Global proteomics of human vessels with and without PAD from a total of 14 donors revealed an increase of proinflammatory associated ontologies, specifically acute phase and innate immunity. Targeted mass spectrometry showed a significant increase in NLRP3, confirmed by NLRP3 ELISA. Histological analysis from the same patients demonstrated expression of NLRP3, colocalizing in immunoreactive CD68 (cluster of differentiation 68) and CD209 (cluster of differentiation 209) macrophages. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy showed the locality of macrophage‐like cells in the presence of calcification, with confocal microscopy further validating the localization of CD68, NLRP3, and calcification via near‐infrared calcium tracer. Systemic inflammation and the presence of the NLRP3 inflammasome was assessed via flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively. Compared with patients without PAD, NLRP3 expression was significantly increased in serum. In addition, proinflammatory cytokine presence was significantly increased in disease versus control, with IL (interleukin)‐1β, TNF‐α (tumor necrosis factor α), and IL‐33 demonstrating the greatest disparity, correlating with NLRP3 activation.

Conclusions

The current findings demonstrate a link between NLRP3, macrophage accumulation, and calcification in arteries of patients with PAD, suggesting an association or possible driver of PAD in these patients.
Implementation of Ticagrelor Reduced Mortality in Routine Clinical Care: Evidence From a Natural Experiment Including 109 995 Patients With Myocardial Infarction in Sweden
Authors: Johannesen Kasper , Siverskog Jonathan , Henriksson Martin , Janzon Magnus , Lindahl Bertil , Grönqvist Erik
Published: March 2023

Background

Effectiveness estimates from observational studies on ticagrelor use in routine clinical care are conflicting, with some contrary to the results of the pivotal randomized controlled trial of ticagrelor in acute coronary syndrome. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of implementing and using ticagrelor in routine clinical care in patients with myocardial infarction using a natural experimental approach.

Methods and Results

This is a retrospective cohort study including patients hospitalized for myocardial infarction in Sweden between 2009 and 2015. The study exploited differences in the timing and speed of ticagrelor implementation between treatment centers as a source of random treatment assignment. The effect of implementing and using ticagrelor was estimated based on the admitting center's likelihood of treating patients with ticagrelor, measured as the proportion of patients treated in the 90 days before patient admission. The main outcome was 12‐month mortality. The study included 109 955 patients, of whom 30 773 were treated with ticagrelor. Being admitted to a treatment center with higher past ticagrelor use was associated with a reduction in 12‐month mortality (2.5 percentage points for 100% versus 0% past use [95% CI, 0.2–4.8]). The results are in line with the findings from the ticagrelor pivotal trial.

Conclusions

Using a natural experiment, this study finds that the implementation and use of ticagrelor in routine clinical care has reduced 12‐month mortality in patients admitted to the hospital with myocardial infarction in Sweden and supports the external validity of randomized evidence on ticagrelor effectiveness.
Variability in Lipid Levels and Risk for Cardiovascular Disease: An Electronic Health Record–Based Population Cohort Study
Authors: Manemann Sheila M. , Bielinski Suzette J. , Moser Ethan D. , St. Sauver Jennifer L. , Takahashi Paul Y. , Roger Véronique L. , Olson Janet E. , Chamberlain Alanna M. , Remaley Alan T. , Decker Paul A. , Killian Jill M. , Larson Nicholas B.
Published: March 2023

Background

Larger within‐patient variability of lipid levels has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, measures of lipid variability require ≥3 measurements and are not currently used clinically. We investigated the feasibility of calculating lipid variability within a large electronic health record–based population cohort and assessed associations with incident CVD.

Methods and Results

We identified all individuals ≥40 years of age who resided in Olmsted County, MN, on January 1, 2006 (index date), without prior CVD, defined as myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, percutaneous coronary intervention, or CVD death. Patients with ≥3 measurements of total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, or triglycerides during the 5 years before the index date were retained. Lipid variability was calculated using variability independent of the mean. Patients were followed through December 31, 2020 for incident CVD. We identified 19 652 individuals (mean age 61 years; 55% female), who were CVD‐free and had variability independent of the mean calculated for at least 1 lipid type. After adjustment, those with highest total cholesterol variability had a 20% increased risk of CVD (Q5 versus Q1 hazard ratio, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.06–1.37]). Results were similar for low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol.

Conclusions

In a large electronic health record–based population cohort, high variability in total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was associated with an increased risk of CVD, independent of traditional risk factors, suggesting it may be a possible risk marker and target for intervention. Lipid variability can be calculated in the electronic health record environment, but more research is needed to determine its clinical utility.
Preferences of Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease for Invasive Versus Conservative Treatment of Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Wilson Todd A. , Hazlewood Glen S. , Sajobi Tolulope T. , Wilton Stephen B. , Pearson Winnie E. , Connolly Carol , Javaheri Pantea A. , Finlay Juli L. , Levin Adeera , Graham Michelle M. , Tonelli Marcello , James Matthew T.
Published: March 2023

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) can experience acute coronary syndromes (ACS) with high morbidity and mortality. Early invasive management of ACS is recommended for most high‐risk patients; however, choosing between an early invasive versus conservative management approach may be influenced by the unique risk of kidney failure for patients with CKD.

Methods and Results

This discrete choice experiment measured the preferences of patients with CKD for future cardiovascular events versus acute kidney injury and kidney failure following invasive heart procedures for ACS. The discrete choice experiment, consisting of 8 choice tasks, was administered to adult patients attending 2 CKD clinics in Calgary, Alberta. The part‐worth utilities of each attribute were determined using multinomial logit models, and preference heterogeneity was explored using latent class analysis. A total of 140 patients completed the discrete choice experiment. The mean age of patients was 64 years, 52% were male, and mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was 37 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
. Across the range of levels, risk of mortality was the most important attribute, followed by risk of end‐stage kidney disease and risk of recurrent myocardial infarction. Latent class analysis identified 2 distinct preference groups. The largest group included 115 (83%) patients, who placed the greatest value on treatment benefits and expressed the strongest preference for reducing mortality. A second group of 25 (17%) patients was identified who were procedure averse and had a strong preference toward conservative management of ACS and avoiding acute kidney injury requiring dialysis.

Conclusions

The preferences of most patients with CKD for management of ACS were most influenced by lowering mortality. However, a distinct subgroup of patients was strongly averse to invasive management. This highlights the importance of clarifying patient preferences to ensure treatment decisions are aligned with patient values.
Endophytic fungi improve management of the burrowing nematode in banana (Musa spp.) through enhanced expression of defence-related genes
Authors: Kisaakye James , Fourie Hendrika , Coyne Danny , Cortada Laura , Khamis Fathiya Mbarak , Subramanian Sevgan , Masinde Shirlyne , Haukeland Solveig
Published: March 2023

The root-burrowing nematode, Radopholus similis, is reputedly the most damaging nematode pest of banana and responsible for major production losses. In this study, the endophytic potential of 13 fungal isolates was assessed for the management of R. similis in East African Highland bananas (‘Ng’ombe’). All isolates successfully colonised tissue-cultured banana roots, with isolates from Trichoderma, Fusarium and Hypocrea producing the highest (⩾49.1%) and Beauveria isolates the lowest (⩽14.4%) colonisation. The fungal endophytes T. asperellum (ICIPE 700) and H. lixii (ICIPE 697) were the most effective in reducing R. similis densities (>81%) relative to the non-inoculated control. However, the combined inoculation of ICIPE 700 and ICIPE 697 led to greater suppression of R. similis (>21%) relative to individual inoculation. Suppression of R. similis following inoculation of banana roots with ICIPE 700 and/or ICIPE 697 was associated with the significant upregulation of the defence-related gene PR-1, the cell signalling gene calmodulin Ca2+ and the cell-wall-strengthening gene β-1,3-glucan synthase. This study demonstrates the potential for nematode management in bananas with fungal endophytes, especially using the isolates ICIPE 700 and ICIPE 697 when combined.
Taxonomy of the Speckled Dace Species Complex (Cypriniformes: Leuciscidae, Rhinichthys) in California, USA
Authors: MOYLE PETER B. , BUCKMASTER NICHOLAS , SU YINGXIN
Published: March 2023

The Speckled Dace, Rhinichthys osculus (Girard), is a small species of fish (Cypriniformes, Leuciscidae) that has the widest geographic range of any freshwater dispersing fish in western North America. The dynamic geologic history of the region has produced many isolated watersheds with endemic fish species. However, Speckled Dace from these watersheds cannot be differentiated readily by morphometrics and meristics. This has led to the widely accepted hypothesis that the dace’s adaptability and ability to cross geologic barriers has resulted in interbreeding among neighboring populations, maintaining the dace as a single species. We investigate this hypothesis by looking at Speckled Dace populations in California which are the result of at least three separate colonization events of isolated watersheds. We synthesize results from taxonomic, genetic, and zoogeographic studies in combination with the findings of a recent genomics study, to show that there are distinctive evolutionary lineages within the Speckled Dace complex. These lineages are used to designate multiple species and subspecies. We back up these designations by examining how well these lineages fit with the geologic history of the isolated basins they inhabit and with the presence of other endemic fishes. We conclude the following nine taxa can be recognized within the Speckled Dace complex in California.
Description of a new species of Probrachista (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Trichogrammatidae) from Ladakh, India
Authors: KHAN MOHD TALIB , ANIS SHOEBA BINTE , ZAIDI NIDA , IRFAN MOHD , MANHAS SAFEER AHMED
Published: March 2023

The present paper deals with the description of a new species Probrachista turtukensis Manhas, Anis & Khan sp. nov, from the region of Ladakh, India. A key to world species of the genus Probrachista Viggiani, is also given.
Species description and phylogenetics of Oerstedia fuscosparsa sp. nov. (Nemertea: Monostilifera: Oerstediidae) from Japan
Authors: ABATO JAMAEL , YOSHIDA RYUTA , KAJIHARA HIROSHI
Published: March 2023

We provide a morphological and molecular-based description of the eumonostiliferous hoplonemertean Oerstedia fuscosparsa sp. nov. based on two specimens dredged from a depth between 11 and 18 m off Kouyatsu, Tateyama, Chiba, Japan. This Oerstedia differs from its congeners by having a deep brownish pigmentation in the head, four orange ocelli, and imprecise dorsal and ventral transverse bands composed of numerous small brown spots. One of the specimens, herein designated as the holotype, has deep brown spots situated mid-dorsally onto the transverse bands running throughout the body. These dorsal markings are absent in the other specimen designated as a paratype. Internally, the species has accessory lateral nerves, and the proboscis nerves are not distinct. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on partial sequences of the 16S, 18S, 28S rRNA, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, and histone H3 gene markers along with the sequences from 22 Oerstedia species available in public databases confirmed that our species is sister to Oerstedia phoresiae (Kulikova, 1987) and belongs to the recently established Paroerstediella clade within the genus Oerstedia.
Acquired Tracheomalacia Requiring Urgent Tracheostomy Exchange in Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Medvecz Andrew J. , Collins Nina E. , Beavers Jennifer R. , Carpenter Christian J. , Gondek Stephen P. , Dennis Bradley M. , Smith Michael C.
Published: March 2023

Tracheostomy for prolonged ventilation of patients with COVID-19 was often delayed due to high viral loads and persistent high ventilatory requirements. With prolonged intubation and significant dose corticosteroid use, patients with COVID-19 are at risk for tracheomalacia, and urgent tube exchange may be required to address persistent cuff leak and to maintain adequate mechanical ventilation. We sought to describe our single center experience with COVID-19 patients requiring tracheostomy and the tracheal complications that followed. We performed a review of patients with COVID-19 who underwent tracheostomy from June 2020 to October 2021. 45 patients were identified; 82.2% survived their index hospitalization. Tracheostomy was performed after 16.4 days of mechanical ventilation. 22.2% required urgent exchange to an extended length tracheostomy tube after 7.2 days from initial tracheostomy. Placement of an extended length tracheostomy tube can reduce cuff leak in ventilated COVID-19 patients and may be considered during initial tracheostomy placement.
A Massive Para-Esophageal Hernia: An Unusual Cause of Tension Physiology Leading to Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Nielsen Dana , Sahr Sheryl
Published: March 2023

Here, we describe the case of a 28-year-old man with history of super morbid obesity and Type IV para-esophageal hernia, who experienced cardiac arrest following incarceration and strangulation of his hernia sac. He required emergency surgery including an exploratory laparotomy and thoracotomy, with splenectomy, omentectomy, and partial gastrectomy. He was subsequently transferred to our institution due to the anticipated difficulty of restoring intestinal continuity. Continuity was established with a retrocolic Roux-en-Y reconstruction with a 90 cm Roux limb. Despite significant soft-tissue necrosis, he eventually recovered and was able to be transferred back to pursue rehabilitation closer to his home in a rural community.
Effects of Early Toilet Training and Elimination Communication With Respect to Diaper Types
Authors: Geist Barbara Katharina , Bammer-Zimmer Roswitha
Published: March 2023

To investigate effects of diaper-free times, elimination communication (EC) and early toilet training, a web-based survey was conducted for caregivers. The more diaper-free times an infant experienced during day, the earlier it was toilet trained ( P < .001), which was enhanced by the usage of cloth diapers. The amount of diaper-free times significantly reduced the caregiver’s continuous sleep, the occurrence of rashes and balm usage ( P < .001) and lead to a more regular defecation frequency. Cloth diaper usage had no effect on rashes or balm usage, but on diaper change rate ( P < .001). We could show that, although not as effective as full-time EC, part-time EC is more effective if cloth diapers are used, provided they are changed frequently. Furthermore, EC causes a more regular defecation in infants between 1 and 2 years.
Clinical Framework for Dismantling Antiblack Racism in the Clinic Room
Authors: Herbst Rachel , Corley Alexandra M. S. , McTate Emily
Published: March 2023

Children who identify as Black or multiracial report significantly higher exposure to adverse childhood experiences, which places them at greater risk for poor mental and physical health outcomes. These disparities and increasing awareness of racism as an adverse childhood experience has resulted in the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Psychological Association, and other groups declaring racism a public health crisis. To provide high-quality care, providers who engage with patients and families impacted by systemic racism must be aware of its role in health disparities. This requires clinicians to have the knowledge and skills to discuss racism with colleagues, patients, and families. To promote clinicians’ competence to engage in these discussions, this article 1) sensitizes providers to historical and contextual factors that inform experiences with anti-Black racism and health disparities and 2) offers strategies to address anti-Black racism in clinical care.Embracing the process of brave, informed conversations about race represents a pathway for building trust between providers and patients, a key component of various health outcomes. Additionally, these foundational skills of reflection, cultural humility, and bias recognition will be needed to engage in allyship and advocacy both within and beyond the exam room.
Sentencing Disparity and Focal Concern: An Assessment of Judicial Decisions onSha Zhu PanCases Collected From China Judgements Online
Authors: Wang Fangzhou
Published: March 2023

Sha Zhu Pan (杀猪盘), or Pig-Butchering scam, is a new online romance scam that mainly targets Chinese-speaking individuals to gain emotional trust and persuade victims to invest in a fictitious website controlled by the scammer group. The substantial economic loss forced the Chinese government to launch a series of judicial campaigns against this crime. Regardless, Sha Zhu Pan has not been significantly curbed but intensified and spread from mainland China to Southeast Asia, North America, and other regions. When procuring answers to this conundrum, no empirical studies have attempted to explore judicial aspects among Sha Zhu Pan cases in China. The purpose of this paper is to utilize focal concern theory, a conceptual framework generally applies to explain sentencing disparity, to explore whether the sentencing of Sha Zhu Pan offenders is guided by legal factors outlined in Chinese sentencing guidelines. To answer this question, this study quantitatively analyzes 172 legal cases collected from China Judgments Online. Although few inconsistent findings exist, the empirical evidence reveals that the judgments in Sha Zhu Pan cases are primarily driven by the three legal elements of the focal concern theory. The outcomes expand the focal concern theory to cybercrime sentencing in a cross-cultural context while offering insights to guide future research.
Difficulties With Methodology in Social Science Research With Controversial Issues Regarding Human Sexuality
Authors: Schumm Walter R. , Crawford Duane W.
Published: March 2023

Social science is commonly used in debates about controversial issues, especially for those concerning human sexuality. However, caution must be exercised in interpreting such social science literature, because of a variety of methodological and theoretical weaknesses that are not uncommon. Families are complex structurally and over time; such data are not easily analyzed. Merely determining the number of, for example, sexual minority families has been a difficult task. While some new theories are popular with social scientists, for example, sexual minority theory, they are often used to the exclusion of other, equally valid theories and often are not well tested empirically. Some types of families remain relatively unexamined. Social scientists can be biased by their own values, which are reflected in weak use of theory and in a variety of methodological problems. Eight studies are presented as examples of probable confirmation bias, in which methods and theory were modified in unusual ways that may have affected the outcomes and conclusions. Suggestions for improving social science include greater attention to effect sizes rather than statistical significance per se, deliberately minimizing the politicization of science, developing a culture of humility with respect to social science, deliberately reducing common biases, and maintaining a deeper curiosity about social science than is often seen. Scientists must be open to seeing their best “sacred cow” ideas or theories disproven or modified with increases in research on such issues.

In controversial areas of social science, there can be numerous threats to the validity of science. Here, some of the more common risks for social science research and theory are examined, with several specific illustrations of how bias appears to have crept into social science, often as confirmation bias. Recommendations are made for reducing bias in future research.
Measuring the (Im)Measurable: On the Psycho-Socio-Spiritual Effects of Aesthetic Experiences of Art
Authors: Callaway Kutter , Rowatt Wade C. , Al-Kire Rosemary L. , Schnitker Sarah A.
Published: March 2023

This article synthesizes and evaluates the current state of research within the overlapping domains of the psychology of art and the psychology of religion. In doing so, it identifies the most promising avenues that psychological scientists might pursue to operationalize, quantify, and analyze the psycho-social-spiritual effects of art. Framed by the broader discourses of theological and philosophical aesthetics, the discussion is organized according to a series of features that are basic to human processing and, thus, likely to be familiar to psychological researchers in numerous sub-disciplines. We consider these components, in turn, noting in particular the key dimensions of each component that are associated with theological, spiritual, and/or religious forms of cognition and the current state of the empirical literature that underwrites these dimensions. We conclude by proposing a program for experimental research focused on spiritual and religious forms of cognition that are prompted by aesthetic experiences of art.
Public Health Development and Economic Growth: Evidence From Chinese Cities
Authors: Zhang Hui
Published: March 2023

High-quality construction of public health system is the key to maintain social economic activities be ordered and stable. The aim of this study is to understand whether public health development can promote economic growth and how. We construct a public health development index combining the variables of local pollution control and health care by EVM method. Based on the panel data of Chinese 283 cities from 2004 to 2017, fixed effect model and two-stage least squares model are used to test the impact of public health development on economic growth. Then, we discuss the heterogeneous impact of public health development on economic growth though the threshold regression model, under different government intervention, employment population scale and urbanization ratio. What’s more, we discuss the possible transmission effect of three human capital mechanisms, namely mortality, consumption rate and employment population size between public health development and economic growth. The conclusions are: (1) For every 0.1 unit increase in public health development, the growth rate of real GDP can be increased by 5 percentage points, which can drive the nominal GDP growth by about 0.17 percentage points. (2) Public health development can promote economic growth regardless of the scale of urban employment population. Only when the urbanization ratio exceeds 70.87 and the government intervention level is lower than 0.058, the development of public health is conducive to the improvement of urban economic development. (3) Public health development helps to promote economic growth, mainly through two paths, reducing mortality and increasing human capital accumulation. And, reducing mortality is more conducive to urban economic growth than increasing human capital accumulation.
Resilient Leaders: Resilient Determinants When Entering Principalship
Authors: Halevi Lior , Schechter Chen
Published: March 2023

The study examines factors that boost principals’ sense of resilience in their first year, as well as those that undermine it. 61 interviews were conducted with 21 school principals from five different districts throughout their first year in the role. Analysis revealed five categories of resilience-undermining factors. (1) Work overload that creates a sense of stress; (2) Difficulties in dealing with key players; (3) Lack of administrative knowledge; (4) Acceptance or rejection by the staff; and (5) Coping with the Covid-19 crisis. The analysis also revealed five categories of resilience-boosting factors: (1) Growth resulting from biographical events; (2) Short-term successes; (3) Supportive environment; (4) Drawing strength from the student environment; and (5) Acceptance by the staff. This study proposes ways of coping with the challenges of principalship through the prism of the resilience determinants of principals when entering their role.
Ultrasound assessment is linked to histological vein wall thickness in chronic venous disease
Authors: Zerrouk Sammi , Casoni Paolo , Cervi Edoardo , Amirat Rafik , Bousquet Guilhem , Leboeuf Christophe , Janin Anne , Pamoukdjian Frédéric
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Few studies compared both ultrasound and histological approaches for the same series of patients with chronic venous disease (CVD). We aimed to assess the diagnostic performances of duplex ultrasound assessment (US) of Vein Wall Thickness (VWT) among patients with CVD.

Methods

38 adults with primary varicose veins having undergone Great Saphenous Vein thermal ablation with phlebectomy, and agreeing to biopsy of the Posterior Accessory Great Saphenous Vein (PASV) were consecutively included in a two-center prospective study. VWT assessment of the PASV was performed using both US, and microscope examination. High values for microscope-assessed VWT were defined at > 0.5 mm.

Results

The mean age was 53.0 ± 13.1 years, 71% were women. Maximization of US performances was obtained with a threshold of 0.6 mm: Sensitivity (Se) = 92.9%, Specificity (Sp) = 91.7%, positive (86.7%) and negative predictive value (NPV) (95.7%), positive (11.1) and negative likelihood ratio (NLR) (0.07).

Conclusions

US assessment of VWT could be a non-invasive tool for diagnosis and follow-up in CVD, and an interesting in vivo parameter complementing diameter and reflux measures, with a view to optimizing treatment. It could help to determine i) the energy level necessary in case of endovenous laser ablation, and ii) the sclerosing agent concentration in case of chemical ablation
3D printing personalized guide plate in the management of recurrent intramuscular venous malformations: A single center experience
Authors: Han Tao , Jiang Shupei , Xiong Jiageng , Cui Jie , Shen Weimin
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of 3D printing personalized guide plate in the management of recurrent intramuscular venous malformations (IVM).

Methods

Fifteen patients with recurrent IVM were retrospectively assessed. 3D-slicer software was used to extract and reconstruct the imaging data from CT and/or MRI to highlight the morphology, size, and puncture depth of the lesion. With the guidance of personalized plate, complete excision of the IVM was adopted along the pre-marked (methylene blue, MB) margin.

Results

Personalized guide plate matched involved extremity well, and MB-puncture approach was consistent with preoperative design. All IVMs were removed radically in one single session. Complete pain relief was obtained in all cases postoperatively.

Conclusion

The application of 3D printing guide plate can be safe, effective, and reliable to confirming the precise margin of IVM, renders a promising technique with a high practical value in resection of recurrent lesion.
Proportion of falls reported in persons with Parkinson's disease: A meta-analysis
Authors: Van Bladel Anke , Herssens Nolan , Bouche Katie , Cambier Dirk , Maes Leen , Lefeber Nina
Published: March 2023

Objective

Falls can be highly debilitating and have an important negative impact on the quality of life of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to provide an up-to-date overview of the prevalence of ≥1 fall and ≥2 falls in idiopathic PD.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase and Cinahl databases were systematically searched until 04 July 2022 for prospective studies reporting fall prevalence in persons with idiopathic PD.

Methods

Pooled prevalence rates with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using random-effects models. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using the I2 statistic.

Results

A total of 54 studies (7546 participants) were included, and random-effects meta-analysis yielded a pooled proportional fall rate of 0.48 (95% CI [0.43–0.52], I2 = 93%, 46 studies, 6874 participants) for classification 1 (≥1 fall) and a pooled proportional fall rate of 0.32 (95% CI [0.27–0.37], I2 = 78%, 31 studies, 5672 participants) for classification 2 (≥2 falls). Subgroup analysis on the classification of falls, and length and method of monitoring falls did not reveal significant differences and did not reduce between-study variability.

Conclusion

Pooled estimates suggest that one in two persons with PD fall at least once, and one in three fall at least twice within the registered time period. Substantial variability remains after pooling fall prevalence rates according to the length and method of monitoring. Therefore, no recommendations can be made concerning these methodological aspects. Future research on falls in PD is encouraged to implement best practice recommendations to monitor and report fall data.
Mobilizing a Nation: Persuasive Appeals in Vietnamese War Posters
Authors: Nguyen Hieu P.
Published: March 2023

How did the government of North Vietnam use propaganda posters during the Vietnam War (1955–1975) to rally Vietnamese people's support of its war efforts and successfully drive the Americans out of Vietnam? Through an interpretive analysis of the iconography and texts found in 141 posters, this study demonstrates four thematic appeals in Vietnamese posters during the Vietnam War: 1/ Emotional appeals (hate and sympathy; pride and indomitability); 2/ Social unity (dedication; allegiance and solidarity); 3/ Authority and leadership; and 4/ Idealized future. The study delivers fresh insights for research in social marketing, communication, art history, political science, and Asian studies.