bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A machine learning access network selection in a heterogeneous wireless environment
Authors: Bendaoud Fayssal , Abdennebi Marwen
Published: December 2023

In the context of Heterogeneous Wireless Networks (HWN), achieving the best connectivity is crucial for users. With the availability of multiple Radio Access Technologies (RATs), users are constantly looking to be “Always Best Connected” (ABC) by connecting to the best possible RAT. This challenge is also important in Next‐Generation Networks (NGN), where researchers are proposing models and algorithms to make the ABC paradigm a reality. One such challenge is the network selection problem, which involves the automatic and transparent selection of the best RAT at a given time. Many papers in this field have used Multi‐Attribute Decision‐Making (MADM) methods, which have been implemented with various objectives such as increasing quality of service (QoS), reducing energy consumption and costs etc. This paper proposes a modified machine learning algorithm, specifically an adapted K‐means algorithm, to address this challenge. The results show that this proposal outperforms legacy MADM methods in terms of latency, jitter, packet loss, and data rate. So, the paper presents a new approach to network selection in HWN and NGN, and the results suggest that it could be a promising solution to this important challenge.
Unit vector template control strategy‐based harmonic mitigation and charging with three phase–three level–three switch Vienna rectifier for Level 3 electric vehicle charging applications
Authors: Kalichikadu Paramasivam Suresh , Ramu Senthil Kumar , Cholamuthu Pazhanimuthu
Published: December 2023

Fast battery charging units act as non‐linear loads, which induce a more harmonic effect in the utility grid. Hence, maintaining the stable voltage, current ripple, and total harmonic distortions within the permissible IEEE std level during the charging time of grid to electric vehicle (G2V) has become an important task for researchers in the future. In order to mitigate power fluctuations during every charging cycle, it will enhance the battery life cycle in electric vehicles (EVs). Three phase–three level–three switch Vienna rectifier with fuzzy logic controller tuned PID controller is used here for AC/DC conversion with minimum switching loss. A fuzzy intelligent control strategy has been employed with the DC link voltage regulator in order to sustain the DC link voltage as constant and progress the voltage/current profile by injecting active power at the point of common coupling. Unit vector template (UVT)‐based control strategy is employed here to identify the fundamental components from the load side and also estimate the reference phase current. This scheme enhances the performance and reduces the mathematical system complexity to diminish the harmonics in the distribution grid. The adaptability and feasibility of this proposed control method have been verified by the MATLAB simulation tool. To validate the response of the Vienna Rectifier with UVT controller are simulated with different unbalanced load conditions and also verified with 30 kW laboratory prototype experimental results using dsPIC30F4011 controller and the switch is IRFP260 with power diode RHRG30120.
Experiences of caregivers of people with dementia in Indonesia: A focus group study
Authors: Theresia Imelda , Sani Tara P. , Evans‐Lacko Sara , Farina Nicolas , Augustina Lydia , Turana Yuda
Published: December 2023

Background

Many people with dementia are reliant on family caregivers to provide daily care to maintain quality of life and dignity. As a result, caregivers can experience increased burden, poorer health outcomes and increased stigma. To date, the experiences of caregivers of people with dementia has not been explored within an Indonesian context.

Aims

This study aims to understand the experience of caregivers of people with dementia in Indonesia and better understanding of the stigma associated with dementia.

Materials and Methods

This qualitative study is embedded within the Strengthening Responses to Dementia in Developing Countries project. Focus Group Discussions were held with dementia caregivers residing in Jakarta, Indonesia. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcripts.

Results

Nineteen caregivers of people with dementia participated in the Focus Group Discussions. Themes identified included: (1) Understanding of dementia, (2) Reaction to care, and (3) Seeking a diagnosis.

Discussion

A perceived lack of understanding about dementia amongst the caregivers, ultimately shaped caregivers experience of care. This included negative reactions to care leading to internalised stigma (e.g., fear and shame). Misconceptions that dementia was due to spiritual and mystical reasons were particularly stigmatising.

Conclusion

In Indonesia, families are providing care to people with dementia in an environment in which there is a lack of understanding that can lead to misdiagnosis, feelings of fear and shame. Efforts to raise address stigma and misunderstanding among the general public and healthcare professionals could be of particular value to support people with dementia and reduce the fear and shame that they can experience.
Disclosures of self‐injurious thoughts and behaviors to parents in the context of adolescent therapy: A qualitative investigation
Authors: Bettis Alexandra H. , Burke Taylor A. , Scott Samantha R. , Bedock Cara , Ambriano Caroline , Parrish Jordan , Marsh Destinee , Fox Kathryn R.
Published: December 2023

Self‐injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs), including suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, and nonsuicidal self‐injury, are highly prevalent among adolescents. Identifying adolescents at risk for SITBs relies on their disclosure, and these disclosures commonly occur in therapy context. Moreover, therapists often breach confidentiality to inform adolescents' parent or guardian when they disclose SITBs. Research has explored rates of and barriers to disclosure among adolescents, yet no studies have examined adolescents' experiences of disclosure in the therapy context. Further, no studies have examined adolescents' experiences when their parents are then informed. In this study, we examined qualitative responses from 1495 adolescents who had experienced a SITB disclosure in the therapy context. Qualitative questions included asking adolescents to describe how the SITB disclosure occurred, how their parents were informed, and their parents' reactions. Using open and axial coding, several themes emerged. Adolescents described therapist breaches of confidentiality as collaborative, noncollaborative, or unclear. Adolescents described their parents' affective responses, communication about SITBs, validating and invalidating responses, treatment‐oriented responses, and ways that parents restricted their access to people, places, and activities. Findings have implications for the development of clinical guidelines when adolescents disclose SITBs in therapy and highlight areas for future research in adolescent SITB disclosure.
Promoting skill use in skill enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy: A case example
Authors: Murphy Samuel T. , Bailey Brooklynn , Strunk Daniel R.
Published: December 2023

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) appears to achieve its effects at least in part by fostering the development of CBT skills. In an effort to leverage CBT skill development, our group developed and tested a skill‐enhanced version of CBT (CBT‐SE) in a recent trial. In this paper, we describe our work with a client who participated in a 12‐week course of CBT‐SE as part of that trial. Although homework is a critical aspect of CBT, the greater emphasis on skill development in CBT‐SE means that homework is even more central. This client's course of treatment illustrates the potential benefits of a strong focus on skill development and the use of specific homework assignments to foster mastery and ongoing use of CBT skills. The client developed CBT skills at a rapid pace early in treatment and exhibited enduring symptom reductions. The experience of this client reinforces the value of a focus on CBT skills and highlights strategies for fostering skill development. Given the evidence in support of the therapeutic value of CBT skills and the well‐established benefits of homework assignment, we encourage use of skill enhancing procedures, including in‐session procedures and assignments that help clients develop and maintain ongoing skill use.
Maternal separation stress through triggering of the neuro‐immune response in the hippocampus induces autistic‐like behaviors in male mice
Authors: Reisi‐Vanani Vahid , Lorigooini Zahra , Bijad Elham , Amini‐Khoei Hossein
Published: December 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the fastest‐growing neurodevelopmental disease throughout the world. Neuro‐immune responses from prenatal to adulthood stages of life induce developmental defects in synaptic signaling, neurotransmitter imbalance, and even structural changes in the brain. In this study, we aimed to focus on the possible role of neuroinflammatory response in the hippocampus in development of the autistic‐like behaviors following maternal separation (MS) stress in mice. To do this, mice neonates daily separated from their mothers from postnatal day (PND) 2 to PND 14 for 3 h. During PND45–60, behavioral tests related to autistic‐like behaviors including three‐chamber sociability, Morris water maze (MWM), shuttle box, resident‐intruder, and marble burying tests were performed. Then, hippocampi were dissected out, and the gene expression of inflammatory mediators including TNF‐α, IL‐1β, TLR4, HMGB1, and NLRP3 was assessed in the hippocampus using RT‐PCR. Results showed that MS mice exerted impaired sociability preference, repetitive behaviors, impaired passive avoidance, and spatial memories. The gene expression of inflammatory mediators significantly increased in the hippocampi of MS mice. We concluded that MS stress probably via activating of the HMGB1/TLR4 signaling cascade in the hippocampus induced autistic‐like behaviors in mice.
Clinical and electrocardiographic correlates of myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19 in nonhospitalised patients in long‐term follow‐up. Data from the polish long‐covid cardiovascular study
Authors: Kapusta Joanna , Babicki Mateusz , Pieniawska‐Śmiech Karolina , Kałuzińska‐Kołat Żaneta , Kołat Damian , Jankowski Piotr , Kasprzak Jarosław D. , Wejner‐Mik Paulina , Bianek‐Bodzak Agnieszka , Chudzik Michał
Published: December 2023

Clinical evidence indicates that COVID‐19 is a multiorgan disease that significantly impacts the cardiovascular system. However, little is known about the predictors of myocardial dysfunction after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the clinical and electrocardiographic correlates of myocardial dysfunction after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in nonhospitalised patients without previously diagnosed cardiovascular disease. This observational study included 448 patients selected from the database of 4142 patients in the Polish Long‐Covid Cardiovascular study. All patients underwent a 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG); 24‐h Holter ECG monitoring, 24/7 ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, echocardiography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. According to the results of diagnostic tests, patients were divided into two groups depending on the occurrence of myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19. Group 1–without myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19–consisted of 419 patients, with a mean age of 48.82 (SD ± 11.91), and Group 2 (29 patients)–with myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19, with a mean age of 51.45 (SD ± 12.92). When comparing the analysed groups, there were significantly more men in Group 2 (p = 0.006). QRS (corresponds to the time of ventricular contraction in an electrocardiographic examination) fragmentation (p = 0.031), arrhythmias (atrial fibrillation, supraventricular extrasystole, ventricular extrasystole) (p = 0.008), and male gender (p = 0.007) were independently associated with myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19. The study showed that myocardial damage after COVID‐19 affects men more often and is independent of typical clinical factors and the severity of the disease course. The QRS fragmentation and arrhythmias observed in the ECG indicate the possibility of myocardial dysfunction in patients after COVID‐19, which may be a valuable marker for physicians.
In silico analysis of rib force distribution in postscapulothoracic arthrodesis model
Authors: Aslan Lercan , Subasi Omer , Gedik Cemil Cihad , Birsel Olgar , Lazoglu Ismail , Demirhan Mehmet , Eren Ilker
Published: December 2023

Scapulothoracic arthrodesis (STA) is carried out by fixing the scapula to thoracic ribs which in turn allows the patient suffering from Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy to carry out shoulder‐joint dependent activities of daily living. A biomechanical analysis of this procedure has not been conducted in the literature and, for the first time, this study investigates the finite element calculated glenohumeral‐applied load distributions on ribs by creating a post‐STA model. Three loading directions on the glenohumeral joint are designated: anterior‐posterior, superior‐inferior, and lateral‐medial. Reaction forces on the ribs are calculated based on the glenoid force percent. Simulations are repeated by removing a singular rib contact to observe the change in force distributions in the case of missing levels or failed bonding as well as the impact of clavicle osteotomy. Total load distribution is observed highest at T2 followed by T3 and T6. In the T2 missing scenario, total loads on T3 and T4 increase. In the T4 missing case, the most affected level is T3. In the T6 missing scenario, total loads on T5 and T7 increase. In the clavicular osteotomy scenario, all levels' loads increase; the highest is recorded in T7 by 460%, followed by T5, T4, T2, T6, and T3. While all levels contribute to fixation strength, T2 is subjected to the highest loads, and, in the missing level scenarios, the loads are tolerated sufficiently by the remaining levels. Missing T4 scenario has the least effect on the system, which is interpreted as potentially the only skippable level of fixation. Clavicular osteotomy has the highest effect on the arthrodesis site.
Influence of residual pockets on periodontal tooth loss: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Saleh Muhammad H. A. , Dias Debora R. , Mandil Obada , Oliveira Ricardo P. de , Alrmali Abdusalam , Araújo Maurício G. , Wang Hom‐Lay , Barath Zoltan , Urban Istvan A.
Published: December 2023

Background

Individuals enrolled in supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) can still present with tooth loss due to periodontitis (TLP). There is limited evidence on the influence of residual pockets (RPc) and a defined “threshold” at which a patient's profile is set to be at high risk for TLP in the literature. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the influence of RPc on TLP and determine the prognostic performance of RPc compared to the staging and grading of periodontitis on TLP risk.

Methods

Clinical data from 168 patients (3869 teeth) treated for periodontitis and receiving SPT for at least 10 years were evaluated in this retrospective study. TLP and the percentage of sites with RPc ≥ 5 mm or ≥6 mm per patient were collected. The prognostic performance of RPc was compared to the staging and grading of the disease on TLP using a multilevel Cox proportional hazard regression model.

Results

Over a median follow‐up of 25 years, 13.7% of teeth were lost, 4.6% of which were due to periodontitis. Most patients with TLP had ≥1 site with RPc ≥5 mm (90.8%) or ≥6 mm (77.6%). Multivariate multilevel Cox regression revealed that patients with >15% of sites with RPc ≥5 mm had a hazard ratio of 2.34, and grade C had a hazard ratio of 4.6 for TLP compared to RPc ≤4 mm/grade A. Grading exhibited the best discrimination and model fit.

Conclusion

Patients with RPc ≥5 mm at >15% of the sites are at risk for tooth loss. Grading and RPc ≥5 mm displayed very good predictive capability of TLP.
Multidisciplinary care of older adults in the emergency department to influence deprescribing in older adults: a cohort study
Authors: Reilly Christopher , Buikstra Elizabeth , Strivens Edward , Marsden Elizabeth , Brose Jarred , Craswell Alison
Published: December 2023

Background

Inappropriate polypharmacy in older adults is a major health problem associated with poor clinical and health service outcomes.

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a geriatric pharmacist service in the emergency department (ED) identifying potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP).

Method

Between 1 June 2018–31 May 2019, adults ≥70 years of age presenting to ED were reviewed by the Geriatric Emergency Department Intervention (GEDI) pharmacist. The intervention consisted of pharmacist‐led medication review using Screening Tool of Older Person’s Prescriptions (STOPP) and Screening Tool to Alert doctors to Right Treatment (START) criteria, patient education on recommendations, an updated medication list, and a letter sent to their general practitioner (GP) electronically. For eligible consenting older adults, telephone calls were made at least 28 days post‐discharge to assess the effectiveness of the intervention. A survey with GPs after 6 months determined how recommendations were perceived. Ethics approval was granted by the Metro North Health B Human Research Ethics Committee (reference no: HREC/18QCH/69–1245) and research governance approval was granted by the study site (Cairns Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, reference no: SSA/Q12345/40673). Informed consent was obtained from all participants via a project information sheet and either the completion of a written consent form (patient participants), verbal consent before interview (GP participants), or implied consent via email responses (GP participants). Routinely collected health data obtained for this study were de‐identified and data included in the follow‐up study was de‐identified.

Results

The GEDI pharmacist reviewed 1214 older adults with an average age of 81 years. The median number of prescribed medications was 10 and 36.8% of older adults had STOPP recommendations. When contacted (n = 35), of those enrolled in the follow‐up study, 71% had stated their medications changed, 40% reported all STOPP medications had ceased, and 69% had START medications commenced, suggesting the recommendations provided were clinically appropriate and readily accepted by their GPs.

Conclusion

Integration of a geriatric pharmacist demonstrated ample opportunities to address PIP in targeted older adults presenting to ED. This study shows that the pharmacist was able to promote appropriate prescribing through patient education and recommendations communicated to the GP on discharge.
Using bioacoustics to enhance the efficiency of spotted owl surveys and facilitate forest restoration
Authors: Kramer H. Anu , Kelly Kevin G. , Whitmore Sheila A. , Berigan William J. , Reid Dana S. , Wood Connor M. , Klinck Holger , Kahl Stefan , Manley Patricia N. , Sawyer Sarah C. , Peery M. Zachariah
Published: December 2023

The California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis) is an older‐forest associated species that resides at the center of forest management planning in the Sierra Nevada and Southern California, USA, which are experiencing increasingly large and severe wildfires and drought‐related tree mortality. We leveraged advances in passive acoustic survey technologies to develop an acoustically assisted survey design that could increase the efficiency and effectiveness of project‐level surveys for spotted owls, allowing surveys to be completed in a single year instead of in multiple years. We deployed an array of autonomous recording units (ARUs) across a landscape and identified spotted owl vocalizations in the resulting audio using BirdNET. We then evaluated spatio‐temporal patterns in spotted owl vocalizations near occupied territories and the ability of a crew naïve to the location of occupied territories to locate spotted owls based on patterns of acoustic detections. After only 3 weeks of acoustic surveys, ≥1 ARU within 750 m of all 17 occupied territories obtained spotted owl detections across ≥2 nights. When active surveys using broadcast calling were conducted near ARUs with spotted owl detections by surveyors naïve to territory occupancy status and locations, surveyors located owls in 93% to 100% of occupied territories with ≤3 surveys. To further improve the efficiency of spotted owl surveys, we developed a statistical model to identify and prioritize areas across the Sierra Nevada for different survey methods (active only, acoustically assisted, no surveys) based on the expected probability of occupancy predicted from remotely sensed measurements of tree height and historical occupancy. Depending on managers' tolerance for false negatives, this model could help identify large areas that might not benefit from surveys based on low expected occupancy probabilities and areas where acoustically assisted surveys might enhance survey effectiveness and efficiency. Collectively, these findings can help managers streamline the survey process and thus increase the pace of forest restoration while minimizing potential near‐term adverse effects on California spotted owls.
Dall's sheep horn growth and harvest management in the Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Karabatsos Sofia , Larter Nicholas C. , Allaire Danny G. , Eykelboom Kayla , Estevo Cesar , Iravani Majid , Barrio Isabel C. , Hik David S.
Published: December 2023

Across most of their native North American range, the horns of mountain sheep (Ovis spp.) males are getting smaller, a pattern attributed to selective hunting pressure. We measured the horns of 755 Dall's sheep males (Ovis dalli dalli) in the southern Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories, between 2002 and 2017. For each male, we measured the circumference and length of each annulus for the right horn and calculated horn volume for each year. We examined changes in horn size in 4 different outfitter areas, using age at harvest as a covariate. Hunting pressure across years in the study area was consistently low, and this population did not experience the decline in horn size observed in several other mountain sheep populations in Canada. Over the 16‐year period, the average horn volume of harvested males was stable and even increased in 1 outfitter area. Local management of Dall's sheep delivered independently by the guide outfitters in the Mackenzie Mountains appears to contribute to maintaining a population of males that has not been adversely affected by strong selective hunting pressure. The resilience of this management strategy may be challenged by environmental changes associated with rapid warming in northern mountain environments.
Endoscopic Versus Microscopic Stapedotomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Emami Hamed , Amirzargar Behrooz , Nemati Yasaman , Rahimi Negin
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the outcomes and complications of endoscopic versus microscopic stapes surgery in patients with otosclerosis.

Study Design

Randomized, single‐blinded clinical trial.

Methods

Patients with otosclerosis who underwent either trans‐canal microscopic or endoscopic stapedotomy at a tertiary care hospital were compared. Thirty‐two patients were randomly divided into two groups using blocked randomization. Group A consisted of 16 patients who underwent trans‐canal microscopic stapedotomy, and group B consisted of 16 patients who underwent trans‐canal endoscopic stapedotomy. Postoperative vertigo, ear pain, and complications such as tympanic membrane perforation or chorda tympani nerve injury were evaluated. Three months postoperatively, patients were assessed for dysgeusia and hearing improvement.

Results

The mean pre‐operative air‐bone gap (ABG) in the microscopic and endoscopic groups was 32.81 ± 6.82 and 30.00 ± 7.96, respectively. The mean improvement in the ABG was 25.45 ± 11.21 dB in the microscopic group and 23.21 ± 10.68 dB in the endoscopic group. Although both techniques showed improvement in auditory outcomes (p‐value <0.001), there were no statistical differences between the endoscopic and microscopic groups in the pre‐operative, post‐operative, and mean improvement of ABG (p‐value >0.05). There were no significant differences between the two methods in chorda tympanic nerve injury, vertigo scores, and the mean operating time (p‐value >0.05), but the mean pain score was higher in the microscopic group (2.56 ± 1.55 in the microscopic group versus 1.31 ± 0.70 in the endoscopic group) (p‐value = 0.003).

Conclusions

Endoscopic stapes surgery can be a preferable alternative to conventional microscopic stapedotomy, as it yields similar hearing outcomes and lower pain scores.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:2395–2400, 2024
Effects of microtopography shaping on characteristics of eroded sediment particles of a dump slope in an opencast coal mine in China
Authors: Wang Yue , Wang Jinman , Shi Wenting , Li Ziqing
Published: December 2023

The properties of sediment particles are crucial research areas for understanding soil erosion on dump slopes. In this study, the slope of the southern dump of the ATB opencast coal mine in the Pingshuo mining area in Shanxi Province, China, was selected to conduct microtopographical shaping and artificial rainfall simulation experiments. Three different gradients of rainfall intensity, 20, 50, and 80 mm·h−1, were set. The main component of rainwater was water (chemistry H2O) by a rainfall duration of 30 min. A Microtrac S3500 laser particle size analyzer was used to measure the collected erosion sediment particles. This study conducted level benches and fish‐scale pits microtopography shaping on the slope of the waste dump. The dimensions of the level bench design were 1, 2, and 1 m for the step width, for the step length, and between each level bench, respectively. The fish‐scale pits were 60 cm (length), 40 cm (width), and 30 cm (depth). The horizontal and row spacing of each fish‐scale pit was 1 m, and an unshaped terrain was used as the control group. Through dynamic monitoring and statistical analysis of the data, the impacts of rainfall intensity and microtopography shaping mode on the features of the eroded sediment particles were analyzed. Fine silt particles (53%) were lost as a result of the surface erosion of the slope. The mean starting periods of sediment particle loss decreased with the increase in rainfall intensity (589 s > 402 s > 305 s). Additionally, the clay and silt particle enrichment ratios decreased (ER >1), whereas the sand particle enrichment ratios increased (ER <1). The level benches had a stronger interception effect on fine sediment, whereas the fish‐scale pits had a weaker interception effect on sediment particles under heavy rain. The distribution properties of erosion sediment particles on a slope can be assessed using fractal dimension as an index. This study is significant for understanding the erosion mechanism of eroded sediment particles on dump slopes and provides a scientific foundation for soil erosion control on opencast coal mine dump slopes in the Loess Plateau. These results highlight the potential for the level bench to effectively delay the occurrence of runoff and greatly enhance the interception of sediment particles.
Ritual and environmental ineffectiveness: How psychological ownership of community drives environmental behavior
Authors: Tang Yihui (Elina) , Felix Reto , Hinsch Christian
Published: December 2023

Psychological ownership has been linked to various environmental behaviors, but extant research has typically examined a specific environmental element (i.e., a lake or national park) instead of abstract entities as the target of this ownership. The current research investigates how psychological ownership of an abstract entity, namely one's community, impacts environmental attitudes and behaviors. Intrigued by previous research showing that consumer concern for the environment does not necessarily translate into pro‐environmental action, we examine the connection between psychological ownership, environmental concern, and environmental behaviors. We propose and find that the perception of environmental ineffectiveness moderates how these variables relate to one another. Counterintuitively, higher levels of perceived environmental ineffectiveness (rather than effectiveness) strengthen the relationships between these variables. We draw on the theory of ritualistic behaviors to explain this phenomenon. Results from three studies using diverse respondents and data gathering approaches reveal a consistent pattern of relationships. Our research makes several important contributions. First, it identifies a quasi‐endowment effect that extends from psychological ownership of community to environmental concern, which subsequently results in the protection of the environment through engagement in environmental behaviors. Second, this research extends the burgeoning psychological literature on rituals to the domain of environmental behaviors. Finally, using the conceptualization of environmental behavior as a ritual, this is the first study to illustrate how perceived consumer ineffectiveness moderates the effect of psychological ownership on environmental behaviors through environmental concern.
Chinese expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of coronary microvascular diseases (2023 Edition)
Authors: Chen Wenqiang , Ni Mei , Huang He , Cong Hongliang , Fu Xianghua , Gao Wei , Yang Yuejin , Yu Mengyue , Song Xiantao , Liu Meilin , Yuan Zuyi , Zhang Bo , Wang Zhaohui , Wang Yan , Chen Yundai , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Yun
Published: December 2023

Since the four working groups of the Chinese Society of Cardiology issued first expert consensus on coronary microvascular diseases (CMVD) in 2017, international consensus documents on CMVD have increased rapidly. Although some of these documents made preliminary recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of CMVD, they did not provide classification of recommendations and levels of evidence. In order to summarize recent progress in the field of CMVD, standardize the methods and procedures of diagnosis and treatment, and identify the scientific questions for future research, the four working groups of the Chinese Society of Cardiology updated the 2017 version of the Chinese expert consensus on CMVD and adopted a series of measures to ensure the quality of this document. The current consensus has raised a new classification of CMVD, summarized new epidemiological findings for different types of CMVD, analyzed key pathological and molecular mechanisms, evaluated classical and novel diagnostic technologies, recommended diagnostic pathways and criteria, and therapeutic strategies and medications, for patients with CMVD. In view of the current progress and knowledge gaps of CMVD, future directions were proposed. It is hoped that this expert consensus will further expedite the research progress of CMVD in both basic and clinical scenarios.
Urolithin A protects severe acute pancreatitis‐associated acute cardiac injury by regulating mitochondrial fatty acid oxidative metabolism in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Yang Yue , Hu Qian , Kang Hongxin , Li Juan , Zhao Xianlin , Zhu Lv , Tang Wenfu , Wan Meihua
Published: December 2023

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) often develops into acute cardiac injury (ACI), contributing to the high mortality of SAP. Urolithin A (UA; 3,8‐dihydroxy‐6H‐dibenzopyran‐6‐one), a natural polyphenolic compound, has been extensively studied and shown to possess significant anti‐inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, the specific effects of UA in SAP‐associated acute cardiac injury (SACI) have not been definitively elucidated. Here, we investigated the therapeutic role and mechanisms of UA in SACI using transcriptomics and untargeted metabolomics analyses in a mouse model of SACI and in vitro studies. SACI resulted in severely damaged pancreatic and cardiac tissues with myocardial mitochondrial dysfunction and mitochondrial metabolism disorders. UA significantly reduced the levels of lipase, amylase and inflammatory factors, attenuated pathological damage to pancreatic and cardiac tissues, and reduced myocardial cell apoptosis and oxidative stress in SACI. Moreover, UA increased mitochondrial membrane potential and adenosine triphosphate production and restored mitochondrial metabolism, but the efficacy of UA was weakened by the inhibition of CPT1. Therefore, UA can attenuate cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction and reduce myocardial apoptosis by restoring the balance of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation metabolism. CPT1 may be a potential target. This study has substantial implications for advancing our understanding of the pathogenesis and drug development of SACI.
IV ketamine infusion therapy for chronic pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Olujimi Odutola Peter , Gupta Ruchir
Published: December 2023

Background

Chronic pain exerts a significant physical, emotional, and socioeconomic toll on millions of patients worldwide. Traditional pharmacological interventions are often inadequate in providing lasting and effective pain relief for patients suffering from severe chronic pain. However, in recent years, intravenous ketamine infusion therapy has emerged as a promising and alternative treatment modality. The effectiveness of intravenous ketamine infusion therapy in treating chronic pain has been investigated in various pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and phantom limb pain. However, varied patient demographics, different endpoints for measuring analgesia, and inconsistent numbers of patients in studies have led to conflicting results. The objective of the present inquiry is to undertake a contemporary updated meta‐analysis of the application of IV ketamine infusion therapy in the context of persistent pain.

Methods

A search was conducted, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, to compare the efficacy of IV Ketamine infusion versus control (placebo, midazolam, gabapentin, hydromorphone, and pregabalin) among individuals with chronic pain. During the analysis, Medline, Cochrane, and Embase were thoroughly searched. Two independent investigators identified randomized double‐blind and non‐randomized trials comparing IV Ketamine infusions with controls. Review Manager 5.4.1 was used to scrutinize the data, with the main focus on pain scores. Secondary outcomes such as quality of sleep, as well as side effects such as nausea, hallucinations, and sedation, were also analyzed. Sixteen studies were included involving 1080 patients.

Results

The pain score was significantly reduced by IV Ketamine (Mean difference −1.05; 95% CI −1.72, −0.39; p = 0.002), while the quality of sleep (Mean difference 0.00; 95% CI −0.12, 0.12; p = 1.00) was not significantly different between studies. Nausea (risk ratio 1.42; 95% CI 0.84, 2.39; p = 0.19), hallucinations (risk ratio 1.08; 95% CI 0.67, 1.76; p = 0.75), and sedation (risk ratio 1.05; 95% CI 0.24, 4.54; p = 0.95) outcomes were not significantly different among the studies.

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis indicates that IV Ketamine infusion is efficacious and safe in patients with chronic pain.
On the friction dependency of the stress Lode angle
Authors: Medicus Gertraud , Pouragha Mehdi , Ostermann Alexander , Fellin Wolfgang
Published: December 2023

The shape of the failure locus of a material is significant for its strength predictions. Even when constitutive models include the same critical stress surface, different critical stress ratios can be predicted for an identical applied isochoric strain path. In this article, we investigate critical stress predictions of different constitutive models, which include the surface according to Matsuoka–Nakai (MN). We perform analytical investigations, true triaxial test simulations with hypoplasticity and barodesy, and discrete element modelling (DEM) simulations to investigate the friction dependency of the stress Lode angle. Our results demonstrate that in hypoplasticity, the direction of the deviatoric stress state at critical state depends solely on the direction of the applied deviatoric strain path. In contrast, in barodesy, the predictions are also dependent on the friction angle of the material. In addition, we compare these results with those obtained with a standard elastoplastic MN model. To validate this friction dependency on the stress Lode angle, we conduct DEM simulations. The DEM results qualitatively support the predictions of barodesy and suggest that a higher friction results in a higher Lode angle at critical stress state.
Repeatability and reproducibility comparisons of liver IVIM imaging with free‐breathing or respiratory‐triggered sequences
Authors: Li Xin‐Ming , Ma Fu‐Zhao , Quan Xian‐Yue , Zhang Xu‐Chang , Xiao Ben‐Heng , Wáng Yì Xiáng J.
Published: December 2023

For liver intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) data acquisition, respiratory‐triggering (RT) MRI is commonly used, and there are strong motivations to shorten the scan duration. For the same scan duration, more b values or higher numbers of excitations can be allowed for free‐breathing (FB) imaging than for RT. We studied whether FB can be used to replace RT when careful IVIM image acquisition and image processing are conducted. MRI data of 22 healthy participants were acquired using a 3.0 T scanner. Diffusion imaging was based on a single‐shot spin‐echo‐type echo‐planar sequence and 16 b values of 0, 2, 4, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 46, 60, 72, 100, 150, 200, 400, and 600 s/mm2. Each subject attended two scan sessions with an interval of 10–20 days. For each scan session, a subject was scanned twice, first with RT and then with FB. The mean image acquisition time was 5.4 min for FB and 10.8 min for RT. IVIM parameters were calculated with bi‐exponential model segmented fitting with a threshold b value of 60 s/mm2, and fitting started from b = 2 s/mm2. There was no statistically significant difference between IVIM parameters measured with FB imaging or RT imaging. Perfusion fraction ICC (intraclass correlation coefficient) for FB imaging and RT imaging in the same scan session was 0.824. For perfusion fraction, wSD (within‐subject standard deviation), BA (Bland–Altman) difference, BA 95% limit, and ICC were 0.022, 0.0001, −0.0635~0.0637, and 0.687 for FB and 0.031, 0.0122, −0.0723~0.0967, and 0.611 for RT. For Dslow (×10−3 s/mm2), wSD, BA difference, BA 95% limit, and ICC were 0.057, 0.0268, −0.1258~0.1793, and 0.471 for FB and 0.073, −0.0078, −0.2170–0.2014, and <0.4 for RT. The Dfast coefficient of variation was 0.20 for FB imaging and 0.28 for RT imaging. All reproducibility indicators slightly favored FB imaging.
‘Both assistant and specialist’: Nurse Anaesthetists' experiences of being relocated during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Valeberg Berit Taraldsen , Meland‐Tangen Lindis , Sollie Anne‐Line Kjos , Borgersen Silje Kristine , von Heimburg Lars , Eide Cecilie , Leegaard Marit
Published: December 2023

Aim

The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of nurse anaesthetists being relocated during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

The study has a qualitative design.

Methods

A total of 12 nurse anaesthetists from four different hospitals were included. Data were collected using individual semi‐structured interviews and then analysed using content analysis. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used.

Results

The 12 respondents, of whom three were men, were between 46 and 64 years old and had 7 to 30 years of experience as NAs. Two themes emerged in the analysis: (1) ‘Diverse experiences’ with the sub‐themes ‘Preparedness’ and ‘Insecurity’ and (2) ‘Both assistant and specialist’ with the sub‐themes ‘Exhausting’ and ‘Meaningful’.

Conclusion

This study shows that the NAs competencies made them prepared to handle many of the situations. They also experienced situations where they were uncomfortable being pressured to take responsibility. They were regarded as a uniform group without considering their prior experiences. Mapping the personnel's former experiences is required to utilize best possible matching of personnel to assignments and create less stress and insecurity among them.
Childhood BMI trajectories predict cardiometabolic risk and perceived stress at age 13 years: the STARS cohort
Authors: Chen Yun , Dangardt Frida , Gelander Lars , Friberg Peter
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine BMI trajectories from birth throughout childhood, associations with health outcomes at age 13 years, and time frames during which early‐life BMI influenced adolescent health.

Methods

Participants (1902, 44% male) reported perceived stress and psychosomatic symptoms and were examined for waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse wave velocity, and white blood cell counts (WBC). BMI trajectory was analyzed using group‐based trajectory modeling of retrospective data of weight/height from birth throughout childhood. The authors performed linear regression to assess associations between BMI trajectories and health outcomes at age 13 years, presented as estimated mean differences with 95% CI among trajectories.

Results

Three BMI trajectories were identified: normal; moderate; and excessive gain. Adjusting for covariates, adolescents with excessive gain had higher WC (19.2 [95% CI: 18.4–20.0] cm), SBP (3.6 [95% CI: 2.4–4.4] mm Hg), WBC (0.7 [95% CI: 0.4–0.9] × 109/L), and stress (1.1 [95% CI: 0.2–1.9]) than adolescents with normal gain. Higher WC (6.4 [95% CI: 5.8–6.9] cm), SBP (1.8 [95% CI: 1.0–2.5] mm Hg), and stress (0.7 [95% CI: 0.1–1.2]) were found in adolescents with moderate versus normal gain. The association of early‐life BMI with SBP started around age 6 years with the excessive gain group, which was earlier than in the normal and moderate gain groups, in which it started at age 12 years.

Conclusions

An excessive gain BMI trajectory from birth predicts cardiometabolic risk and stress in 13‐year‐old individuals.
Extracting forced vital capacity from the electronic health record through natural language processing in rheumatoid arthritis‐associated interstitial lung disease
Authors: England Bryant R. , Roul Punyasha , Yang Yangyuna , Hershberger Daniel , Sayles Harlan , Rojas Jorge , Cannon Grant W. , Sauer Brian C. , Curtis Jeffrey R. , Baker Joshua F. , Mikuls Ted R.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To develop a natural language processing (NLP) tool to extract forced vital capacity (FVC) values from electronic health record (EHR) notes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis‐interstitial lung disease (RA‐ILD).

Methods

We selected RA‐ILD patients (n = 7485) in the Veterans Health Administration (VA) between 2000 and 2020 using validated ICD‐9/10 codes. We identified numeric values in proximity to FVC string patterns from clinical notes in the EHR. Subsequently, we performed processing steps to account for variability in note structure, related pulmonary function test (PFT) output, and values copied across notes, then assigned dates from linked administrative procedure records. NLP‐derived FVC values were compared to values recorded directly from PFT equipment available on a subset of patients.

Results

We identified 5911 FVC values (n = 1844 patients) from PFT equipment and 15 383 values (n = 4982 patients) by NLP. Among 2610 date‐matched FVC values from NLP and PFT equipment, 95.8% of values were within 5% predicted. The mean (SD) difference was 0.09% (5.9), and values strongly correlated (r = 0.94, p < 0.001), with a precision of 0.87 (95% CI 0.86, 0.88). NLP captured more patients with longitudinal FVC values (n = 3069 vs. n = 1164). Mean (SD) change in FVC %‐predicted per year was similar between sources (−1.5 [30.0] NLP vs. −0.9 [16.6] PFT equipment; standardized response mean = 0.05 for both).

Conclusions

NLP of EHR notes increases the capture of accurate, longitudinal FVC values by three‐fold over PFT equipment. Use of this NLP tool can facilitate pharmacoepidemiologic research in RA‐ILD and other lung diseases by capturing this critical measure of disease severity.
How Nanoparticle Size and Bubble Merging Is Governed by Short‐Range Spatially Controlled Double‐Beam Laser Ablation in Liquids
Authors: Riahi Farbod , Doñate‐Buendia Carlos , Barcikowski Stephan , Gökce Bilal
Published: December 2023

Pulsed laser ablation in liquid (LAL) is a method for synthesizing nanoparticles with controlled composition and high purity. However, current research predominantly examines isolated cavitation bubbles, overlooking real‐world LAL scenarios where numerous bubbles interact simultaneously. This study addresses this gap by investigating the effects of short‐range micrometric spatially controlled double‐pulse laser ablation in liquids on nanoparticle size distribution. Gold and YAG are used as model materials, and a dimensionless parameter, H*, is introduced to quantify the ratio between double bubble spatial separation and their maximum height. This parameter correlates with cavitation bubble merging time, bubble volume change rate, and subsequent nanoparticle size increase. Shadowgraphs provide valuable insights into bubble contact and fusion dynamics, showcasing phase separation by a thin water film and subsequent merging into a single bubble. Notably, a twofold increase in nanoparticle size is observed for both Au and YAG at H* = 0.25. The research indicates a strong association between nanoparticle size trends and cavitation bubble volume rate change, particularly emphasized at H* = 0.25. Understanding the dynamics of neighboring bubbles during LAL emphasizes the relevance of lateral pulse distances in dual‐beam LAL, impacting particle size distribution in a distance‐dependent manner.
Variable effects of periprostatic adipose tissue on prostate cancer cells: Role of adipose tissue lipid composition and cancer cells related factors
Authors: Cancel Mathilde , Crottes David , Bellanger Dorine , Bruyère Frank , Mousset Coralie , Pinault Michelle , Mahéo Karine , Fromont Gaëlle
Published: December 2023

Background

Periprostatic adipose tissue (PPAT) is likely to modulate prostate cancer (PCa) progression. We analyzed the variations in the effect of PPAT on cancer cells, according to its fatty acid (FA) composition and tumor characteristics.

Methods

The expression of markers of aggressiveness Ki67 and Zeb1, and epigenetic marks that could be modified during PCa progression, was analyzed by immunohistochemistry on a tissue‐micro‐array containing 59 pT3 PCa, including intra‐prostatic areas and extra‐prostatic foci in contact with PPAT belonging to the same tumor. In addition, we cocultivated PC3 and LNCaP cell lines with PPAT, which were then analyzed for FA composition.

Results

Although the contact between PPAT and cancer cells led overall to an increase in Ki67 and Zeb1, and a decrease in the epigenetic marks 5MC, 5HMC, and H3K27ac, these effects were highly heterogeneous. Increased proliferation in extra‐prostatic areas was associated with the international society of uropathology score. PC3 and LNCaP cocultures with PPAT led to increased Ki67, Zeb1 and H3K27me3, but only for PPAT associated with aggressive PCa. PC3 proliferation was correlated with high 20.2 n‐6 and low 20.5n‐3 in PPAT.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the effects of PPAT on cancer cells may depend on both PCa characteristics and PPAT composition, and could lead to propose nutritional supplementation.