bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic findings in sinonasal aspergillosis in dogs in the United Kingdom: 475 cases (2011–2021)
Authors: Prior C. , Swales H. , Sharman M. , Reed N. , Bommer N. , Kent A. , Glanemann B. , Clarke K. , Kortum A. , Kelly D. , Lea C. , Roberts E. , Rutherford L. , Tamborini A. , Murphy K. , Batchelor D. J. , Calleja S. , Burrow R. , Jamieson P. , Best M. , Borgonovi S. , Calvo‐saiz I. , Elgueta I. , Piazza C. , Gil Morales C. , Hrovat A. , Keane M. , Kennils J. , Lopez E. , Spence S. , Izaguirre E. , Hernandez‐Perello M. , Lau N. , Paul A. , Ridyard A. , Shales C. , Shelton E. , Farges A. , Specchia G. , Espada L. , Fowlie S. J. , Tappin S. , Van den Steen N. , Sparks T. H. , Allerton F.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To describe the diagnostic tests used and their comparative performance in dogs diagnosed with sinonasal aspergillosis in the United Kingdom. A secondary objective was to describe the signalment, clinical findings and common clinicopathologic abnormalities in sinonasal aspergillosis.

Materials and Methods

A multi‐centre retrospective survey was performed involving 23 referral centres in the United Kingdom to identify dogs diagnosed with sinonasal aspergillosis from January 2011 to December 2021. Dogs were included if fungal plaques were seen during rhinoscopy or if ancillary testing (via histopathology, culture, cytology, serology or PCR) was positive and other differential diagnoses were excluded.

Results

A total of 662 cases were entered into the database across the 23 referral centres. Four hundred and seventy‐five cases met the study inclusion criteria. Of these, 419 dogs had fungal plaques and compatible clinical signs. Fungal plaques were not seen in 56 dogs with turbinate destruction that had compatible clinical signs and a positive ancillary test result. Ancillary diagnostics were performed in 312 of 419 (74%) dogs with observed fungal plaques permitting calculation of sensitivity of cytology as 67%, fungal culture 59%, histopathology 47% and PCR 71%.

Clinical Significance

The sensitivities of ancillary diagnostics in this study were lower than previously reported challenging the clinical utility of such tests in sinonasal aspergillosis. Treatment and management decisions should be based on a combination of diagnostics including imaging findings, visual inspection, and ancillary testing, rather than ancillary tests alone.
Limited genomic signatures of population collapse in the critically endangered black abalone (Haliotis cracherodii)
Authors: Wooldridge Brock , Orland Chloé , Enbody Erik , Escalona Merly , Mirchandani Cade , Corbett‐Detig Russell , Kapp Joshua D. , Fletcher Nathaniel , Cox‐Ammann Karah , Raimondi Peter , Shapiro Beth
Published: April 2024

The black abalone, Haliotis cracherodii, is a large, long‐lived marine mollusc that inhabits rocky intertidal habitats along the coast of California and Mexico. In 1985, populations were impacted by a bacterial disease known as withering syndrome (WS) that wiped out >90% of individuals, leading to the closure of all U.S. black abalone fisheries since 1993. Current conservation strategies include restoring diminished populations by translocating healthy individuals. However, population collapse on this scale may have dramatically lowered genetic diversity and strengthened geographic differentiation, making translocation‐based recovery contentious. Additionally, the current prevalence of WS remains unknown. To address these uncertainties, we sequenced and analysed the genomes of 133 black abalone individuals from across their present range. We observed no spatial genetic structure among black abalone, with the exception of a single chromosomal inversion that increases in frequency with latitude. Outside the inversion, genetic differentiation between sites is minimal and does not scale with either geographic distance or environmental dissimilarity. Genetic diversity appears uniformly high across the range. Demographic inference does indicate a severe population bottleneck beginning just 15 generations in the past, but this decline is short lived, with present‐day size far exceeding the pre‐bottleneck status quo. Finally, we find the bacterial agent of WS is equally present across the sampled range, but only in 10% of individuals. The lack of population genetic structure, uniform diversity and prevalence of WS bacteria indicates that translocation could be a valid and low‐risk means of population restoration for black abalone species' recovery.
Evaluation ofLong‐termcolour resistance of composite materials used in aligner treatments: A comparative study
Authors: Yildiz Hilal , Dedeoglu Mustafa , Aydemir Merve , Oktay Hüsamettin
Published: April 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to evaluate the discolouration resistance of attachments made of composites having different physical properties, filler ratios and viscosity through the simulated environment and conditions.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐two extracted human teeth were aligned to simulate upper and lower dental arches. The attachments were prepared according to the guides determined by ClearCorrect. Three different composite groups were used for attachments preparation: Aligner Connect, G‐Aenial Universal Injectable, and Tetric Prime and Tetric Evoflow combination. Dental models and aligners were kept in artificial saliva throughout the experiment of 96 weeks. The aligners were also subjected to 2308 thermal cycles and insertion and removing procedures 840 times for each period of 12 weeks. Afterwards, the models were kept in coffee and red wine solutions. Colour measurements were made with Vita Easy Shade 4.0 at 12th, 24th, 48th and 96th simulated weeks.

Results

No significant difference in discolouration was observed during thermal cycle application of 12th and 24th week experimental periods. In the later periods, discolouration was observed in the composite materials, and G‐Aenial Universal Injectable was less coloured than the other samples. The composite samples were more coloured in proportion to their residence time. The G‐Aenial Universal Injectable was more affected by wine solution, and Tetric Prime and Tetric Evoflow combination were more affected by coffee solution.

Conclusions

Viscosity, resin matrix content and nature of inorganic filler particles of the composite materials significantly affect the colour changing properties of them due to the long‐term ageing and exposure to colouring agents.
CwJAZ4/9 negatively regulates jasmonate‐mediated biosynthesis of terpenoids through interacting with CwMYC2 and confers salt tolerance in Curcuma wenyujin
Authors: Wang Xin‐yi , Zhu Ning‐ning , Yang Jia‐shun , Zhou Dan , Yuan Shu‐ton , Pan Xiao‐jun , Jiang Cheng‐xi , Wu Zhi‐gang
Published: April 2024

Plant JASMONATE ZIM‐DOMAIN (JAZ) genes play crucial roles in regulating the biosynthesis of specialized metabolites and stressful responses. However, understanding of JAZs controlling these biological processes lags due to numerous JAZ copies. Here, we found that two leaf‐specific CwJAZ4/9 genes from Curcuma wenyujin are strongly induced by methyl‐jasmonate (MeJA) and negatively correlated with terpenoid biosynthesis. Yeast two‐hybrid, luciferase complementation imaging and in vitro pull‐down assays confirmed that CwJAZ4/9 proteins interact with CwMYC2 to form the CwJAZ4/9‐CwMYC2 regulatory cascade. Furthermore, transgenic hairy roots showed that CwJAZ4/9 acts as repressors of MeJA‐induced terpenoid biosynthesis by inhibiting the terpenoid pathway and jasmonate response, thus reducing terpenoid accumulation. In addition, we revealed that CwJAZ4/9 decreases salt sensitivity and sustains the growth of hairy roots under salt stress by suppressing the salt‐mediated jasmonate responses. Transcriptome analysis for MeJA‐mediated transgenic hairy root lines further confirmed that CwJAZ4/9 negatively regulates the terpenoid pathway genes and massively alters the expression of genes related to salt stress signaling and responses, and crosstalks of multiple phytohormones. Altogether, our results establish a genetic framework to understand how CwJAZ4/9 inhibits terpenoid biosynthesis and confers salt tolerance, which provides a potential strategy for producing high‐value pharmaceutical terpenoids and improving resistant C. wenyujin varieties by a genetic approach.
Violence on social networks related to the body image of young women and its repercussions on health
Authors: García‐Carpintero Muñoz Maria Ángeles , Tarriño‐Concejero Lorena , de Diego‐Cordero Rocio
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Social networking sites perpetuate gender stereotypes, inequalities, and gender violence, generating adverse health effects.

Methods

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between Instagram, alcohol consumption and effects on health, through interviews and discussion groups involving adolescents (high school or university students and workers), during the period from the third to the sixth wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

A total of 118 individuals participated in the study. Three coding clusters were identified: (1) Inequality in the representation of men and women on SNSs; (2) Violence towards women's bodies and sexual violence on SNSs; and (3) Health problems derived from violence against women's body image on SNSs. The main focus of our analysis was the exhibition of the female body, in which eroticization of the body prevails and gender roles are perpetuated. Violence is generated towards women in the form of misogynistic attacks for daring to challenge conventional stereotypes. Many interviewees coincide that the main health effects include low self‐esteem, anxiety and eating disorders.

Conclusions

The institutional response to the abuses and violence committed on SNSs against women is weak, and public policies are needed to protect women in these environments where they are especially vulnerable.
Comparative analysis of ocular biometry, ocular protrusion, and palpebral fissure dimensions in brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic dog breeds
Authors: Rujirekasuwan Nuanwan , Sattasathuchana Panpicha , Theerapan Wutthiwong , Thengchaisri Naris
Published: April 2024

This study compared skull morphology and ocular parameters in brachycephalic (BC, n = 16) and nonbrachycephalic (NB, n = 16) dogs using head CT scans. The results of a Schirmer tear test I (STT I), intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular biometry, external structure, ocular protrusion, and palpebral fissure dimensions were evaluated and compared between BC and NB dogs. There were no statistically significant differences in the STT I results, IOP, globe dimensions, globe volume, internal structure, and external structure between BC and NB dogs (P > .05). Brachycephalic dogs exhibited significantly greater ocular protrusion and significantly larger palpebral fissure dimensions compared with NB dogs. For all dogs, we found a strong positive correlation between globe volume and body weight (r = 0.836, P = .0000). The globe volumes, external structure parameters, and ocular protrusion were normalized by body weight and were also significantly larger in BC dogs compared with NB dogs (P < .001). The ocular protrusion (r = 0.521, P < .0000) and horizontal palpebral fissure (r = 0.372, P = .0024) showed a moderate positive correlation with the cephalic index (CI). Additionally, normalized globe volume (r = 0.435, P = .0003), normalized orbital depth (r = 0.419, P = .0005), and normalized retrobulbar depth (r = 0.444, P = .0002) had a moderate positive correlation with the CI. The study emphasizes how the distinctive skull structure of BC dogs, with shortened facial bones and thickened retrobulbar soft tissue, influences their ocular appearance and raises the risk of eye problems.
Conflict‐free hypergraph matchings
Authors: Glock Stefan , Joos Felix , Kim Jaehoon , Kühn Marcus , Lichev Lyuben
Published: April 2024

A celebrated theorem of Pippenger, and Frankl and Rödl states that every almost‐regular, uniform hypergraph  with small maximum codegree has an almost‐perfect matching. We extend this result by obtaining a conflict‐free matching, where conflicts are encoded via a collection  of subsets . We say that a matching  is conflict‐free if  does not contain an element of  as a subset. Under natural assumptions on , we prove that  has a conflict‐free, almost‐perfect matching. This has many applications, one of which yields new asymptotic results for so‐called ‘high‐girth’ Steiner systems. Our main tool is a random greedy algorithm which we call the ‘conflict‐free matching process’.
Analytical Study on the Buckling of Cylindrical Shells With Circumferential Thickness Variation Under Varying External Pressure
Authors: Yang Licai
Published: April 2024

In this article, the analytical buckling load coefficient formula for a cylinder with circumferential thickness variation subjected to varying external pressure is established for the first time by developing a quadratic perturbation method. Based on the presented formula, some specific examples that consider either circumferential shell thickness variation or varying lateral pressure are studied and compared with those in the published literature. First, classical cosine thickness variation is analyzed. The computed results of buckling load coefficients indicate that most of differences between the proposed formula and finite element (FE) analyses in previous literature are less than 5%. Second, wind-type pressure load is discussed, and the maximum difference of predicted buckling load coefficients between our formula and results in published article is 2.3%. Third, both circumferential thickness variation and linear liquid pressure are analyzed by the proposed analytical formula and validated by the Galerkin method when both thickness and load variations are small. Therefore, accuracy and reliability of the established formula are validated. For the purpose of engineering application, buckling of a circular shell with local circumferential thickness variation due to weld shrinkage under wind-type pressure is analytically investigated. The effects of thickness variation amplitude, load parameter, half angle of thickness variation, and shell dimensions on buckling load coefficients are studied in detail.
Status Quo and Gap Analysis of Heliostat Field Deployment Processes for Concentrating Solar Tower Plants
Authors: Sment Jeremy , Zolan Alexander
Published: April 2024

Deployment of the solar field of a concentrating solar power plant is one of many factors that are integral to the success of a project. Knowledge transfer from outside the industry is limited due to the unique nature of heliostats, which redirect sunlight to a receiver with high precision while maintaining a high level of reflectivity. Moreover, learning from project to project can be limited due to the site-specific nature of projects, as the market includes several developers, each with their own unique design. In this paper, we discuss the state of the art in heliostat field deployment. We cover all the key aspects of deployment from project assessment to a fully functioning system, which include site selection, layout development, supply chain, assembly, site preparation and construction, calibration, and operations and maintenance. We then perform a gap analysis on field deployment and recommend priorities for future research.
An exploratory study on dialect density estimation for children and adult's African American English
Authors: Johnson Alexander , Shankar Natarajan Balaji , Ostendorf Mari , Alwan Abeer
Published: April 2024

This paper evaluates an innovative framework for spoken dialect density prediction on children's and adults' African American English. A speaker's dialect density is defined as the frequency with which dialect-specific language characteristics occur in their speech. Rather than treating the presence or absence of a target dialect in a user's speech as a binary decision, instead, a classifier is trained to predict the level of dialect density to provide a higher degree of specificity in downstream tasks. For this, self-supervised learning representations from HuBERT, handcrafted grammar-based features extracted from ASR transcripts, prosodic features, and other feature sets are experimented with as the input to an XGBoost classifier. Then, the classifier is trained to assign dialect density labels to short recorded utterances. High dialect density level classification accuracy is achieved for child and adult speech and demonstrated robust performance across age and regional varieties of dialect. Additionally, this work is used as a basis for analyzing which acoustic and grammatical cues affect machine perception of dialect.
A context-based model to predict the intelligibility of sentences in non-stationary noises
Authors: van Schoonhoven Jelmer , Rhebergen Koenraad S. , Dreschler Wouter A.
Published: April 2024

The context-based Extended Speech Transmission Index (cESTI) (van Schoonhoven et al., 2022, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 151, 1404–1415) was successfully applied to predict the intelligibility of monosyllabic words with different degrees of context in interrupted noise. The current study aimed to use the same model for the prediction of sentence intelligibility in different types of non-stationary noise. The necessary context factors and transfer functions were based on values found in existing literature. The cESTI performed similar to or better than the original ESTI when noise had speech-like characteristics. We hypothesize that the remaining inaccuracies in model predictions can be attributed to the limits of the modelling approach with regard to mechanisms, such as modulation masking and informational masking.
The Role of Cost in Predicting Learning Outcomes in Physical Education: An Expectancy–Value–Cost Model
Authors: Shen Bo , Li Benzheng , Bo Jin
Published: April 2024

Purpose: While the expectancy–value theory recognizes the significance of cost as an essential component, it has garnered minimal attention in physical education. Utilizing two separate datasets, we explored the degree to which the inclusion of cost in an expectancy–value–cost model could augment its predictive capability. Method: Study 1 utilized a cross-sectional data set (N = 144) to investigate the predictive roles of expectancy belief, task value, and cost on behavioral and emotional engagement. Study 2 employed a longitudinal data set (N = 251) to assess how these variables influenced the hypothetical choice of attending physical education and cardiorespiratory fitness. Results: Cost played a significant role in explaining additional variance, surpassing what could be predicted through expectancy and value. Specifically, cost emerged as a crucial factor in predicting emotional engagement, hypothetical choice, and cardiorespiratory fitness. Conclusion: Incorporating cost as an independent construct can yield valuable supplementary insights into the determinants of students’ learning.
Exploring the pediatric nasopharyngeal bacterial microbiota with culture-based MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and targeted metagenomic sequencing
Authors: Pol Sreymom , Kallonen Teemu , Mäklin Tommi , Sar Poda , Hopkins Jill , Soeng Sona , Miliya Thyl , Ling Clare L. , Bentley Stephen D. , Corander Jukka , Turner Paul
Published: April 2024

The nasopharynx is an important reservoir of disease-associated and antimicrobial-resistant bacterial species. This proof-of-concept study assessed the utility of a combined culture, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and targeted metagenomic sequencing workflow for the study of the pediatric nasopharyngeal bacterial microbiota. Nasopharyngeal swabs and clinical metadata were collected from Cambodian children during a hospital outpatient visit and then biweekly for 12 weeks. Swabs were cultured on chocolate and blood-gentamicin agar, and all colony morphotypes were identified by MALDI-TOF MS. Metagenomic sequencing was done on a scrape of all colonies from a chocolate agar culture and processed using the mSWEEP pipeline. One hundred one children were enrolled, yielding 620 swabs. MALDI-TOF MS identified 106 bacterial species/40 genera: 20 species accounted for 88.5% (2,190/2,474) of isolates. Colonization by
Moraxella catarrhalis
(92.1% of children on ≥1 swab),
Haemophilus influenzae
(87.1%), and
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(83.2%) was particularly common. In
S. pneumoniae
-colonized children, a median of two serotypes [inter-quartile range (IQR) 1–2, range 1–4] was detected. For the 21 bacterial species included in the mSWEEP database and identifiable by MALDI-TOF, detection by culture + MALDI-TOF MS and culture + mSWEEP was highly concordant with a median species-level agreement of 96.9% (IQR 86.8%–98.8%). mSWEEP revealed highly dynamic lineage-level colonization patterns for
S. pneumoniae
which were quite different to those for
S. aureus
. A combined culture, MALDI-TOF MS, targeted metagenomic sequencing approach for the exploration of the young child nasopharyngeal microbiome was technically feasible, and each component yielded complementary data.

IMPORTANCE

The human upper respiratory tract is an important source of disease-causing and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, understanding the interactions and stability of these bacterial populations is technically challenging. We used a combination of approaches to determine colonization patterns over a 3-month period in 101 Cambodian children. The combined approach was feasible to implement, and each component gave complementary data to enable a better understanding of the complex patterns of bacterial colonization.
Comparison of gastric inflammation and metaplasia induced by
Helicobacter pylori
or
Helicobacter felis
colonization in mice
Authors: Druffner Sara R. , Venkateshwaraprabu Shrinidhi , Khadka Stuti , Duncan Benjamin C. , Morris Maeve T. , Sen-Kilic Emel , Damron Fredrick H. , Liechti George W. , Busada Jonathan T.
Published: April 2024

Gastric cancer is the fifth most diagnosed cancer in the world. Infection by the bacteria
Helicobacter pylori
(HP) is associated with approximately 75% of gastric cancer cases. HP infection induces chronic gastric inflammation, damaging the stomach and fostering carcinogenesis. Most mechanistic studies on gastric cancer initiation are performed in mice and utilize either mouse-adapted strains of HP or the natural mouse pathogen
Helicobacter felis
(HF). Here, we identified the differences in gastric inflammation, atrophy, and metaplasia associated with HP and HF infection in mice. PMSS1 HP strain or the CS1 HF strain were co-cultured with mouse peritoneal macrophages to assess their immunostimulatory effects. HP and HF induced similar cytokine production from cultured mouse peritoneal macrophages revealing that both bacteria exhibit similar immunostimulatory effects
in vitro
. Next, C57BL/6J mice were infected with HP or HF and were assessed 2 months post-infection. HP-infected mice caused modest inflammation within both the gastric corpus and antrum, and did not induce significant atrophy within the gastric corpus. In contrast, HF induced significant inflammation throughout the gastric corpus and antrum. Moreover, HF infection was associated with significant atrophy of the chief and parietal cell compartments and induced the expression of pyloric metaplasia (PM) markers. HP is poorly immunogenic compared to HF. HF induces dramatic CD4+ T cell activation, which is associated with increased gastric cancer risk in humans. Thus, HP studies in mice are better suited for studies on colonization, while HF is more strongly suited for studies on the effects of gastric inflammation on tumorigenesis.
 

IMPORTANCE

Mouse infection models with
Helicobacter
species are widely used to study
Helicobacter
pathogenesis and gastric cancer initiation. However,
Helicobacter pylori
is not a natural mouse pathogen, and mouse-adapted
H. pylori
strains are poorly immunogenic. In contrast,
Helicobacter felis
is a natural mouse pathogen that induces robust gastric inflammation and is often used in mice to investigate gastric cancer initiation. Although both bacterial strains are widely used, their disease pathogenesis in mice differs dramatically. However, few studies have directly compared the pathogenesis of these bacterial species in mice, and the contrasting features of these two models are not clearly defined. This study directly compares the gastric inflammation, atrophy, and metaplasia development triggered by the widely used PMSS1
H. pylori
and CS1
H
. felis strains in mice. It serves as a useful resource for researchers to select the experimental model best suited for their studies.
Climatic controls on water-mass chemistry in a Paleocene lacustrine setting, Subei Basin, eastern China
Authors: Liu Yang , Yun Lu , Jin Zhijun , He Xipeng , Gao Yuqiao , Zan Ling , Hua Caixia , Tang Xuan , Zhang Rui , Poulton Simon W.
Published: April 2024

The Paleocene epoch was characterized by global climate fluctuations and major carbon-cycle perturbations. During the greenhouse climate that characterized the early Cenozoic, a short-lived late Paleocene global cooling event has been recognized from marine records. However, the response of the terrestrial system to this climate cooling event is poorly understood. Here, we present major- and trace-element analyses, iron speciation systematics, carbonate carbon isotope data, and mineralogical observations from lacustrine sediments in Member II of the Paleocene Funing Formation (E1f2), utilizing well-preserved drill core from the Subei Basin, eastern China. Both chemical (chemical index of alteration [CIA], Al/K ratios) and mineralogical (mineralogical index of alteration, clay/feldspar ratios) proxies yield consistent weathering and paleoclimatic interpretations, suggesting a transition from cool and arid climatic conditions to warmer and more humid climatic conditions. Correlation of carbon isotopes between the Subei Basin and deep-sea records implies that this terrestrial setting records the short-lived Paleocene climate cooling event. The combination of climate records and paleosalinity proxies (B/Ga and S/total organic carbon [TOC]) indicates a relatively high-salinity water column (brackish to saline) under cool and arid climatic conditions in the Subei Basin, suggesting that elevated salinity was likely produced via net-evaporative conditions, rather than marine incursions. A shift toward less saline brackish conditions up section reflects an increase in precipitation and freshwater runoff under warmer and more humid climatic conditions. Iron speciation and redox-sensitive trace-metal systematics reveal fluctuating redox conditions, from oxic through to anoxic ferruginous, but with the distinct development of better ventilated conditions as freshwater inputs increased under more humid conditions. Our findings demonstrate the sensitivity of terrestrial climate to the late Paleocene climate cooling event and further reveal the chemical response of a lacustrine setting to a cooling episode in a greenhouse world.
Bilateral Takayasu’s retinopathy as the initial presentation of Takayasu’s arteritis
Authors: Ambiya Vikas , Kumar Abhishek , Sharma Vijay K , Sharma Ashok
Published: April 2024

We present a case of Takayasu’s arteritis in a woman in her 30s, who exhibited visual symptoms and ophthalmic manifestations of the disease, specifically Takayasu’s retinopathy stage 4, in both eyes. Despite severe narrowing of all branches of the aortic arch and compromised perfusion in both upper limbs, she had no history of intermittent claudication. Doppler study and CT angiography revealed diffuse circumferential wall thickening of bilateral common carotid, subclavian and axillary arteries. Treatment involved retinal laser photocoagulation and immune suppression. This case underscores that advanced Takayasu’s retinopathy can be an initial presentation of Takayasu’s arteritis even in a state of severely compromised peripheral limb circulation.
Surgical management of a multilevel thoracolumbar aneurysmal bone cyst
Authors: Gensler Ryan , Roehrkasse Amanda , Dowlati Ehsan , Sloan Emily , McGrail Kevin
Published: April 2024

Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are primary bone tumours that rarely occur in the spine and generally affect one vertebral level in adolescents. Here, we present an unusual case of a multilevel thoracolumbar ABC, which presented a unique surgical challenge due to its infiltrative and destructive nature. A teenage male presented with back pain, paresthesias and a mildly spastic gait. MRI of the thoracolumbar spine revealed an expansive, multicystic mass extending from the left T12–L1 vertebral bodies into adjacent musculature. The patient underwent a two-stage surgical approach with decompression of the spinal cord and instrumentation to stabilise the vertebral column. The first stage involved posterior decompression, laminectomy and facetectomies, followed by pedicle-based instrumentation from T10 to L3. This was followed by a vertebrectomy and anterior stabilisation with an expansile cage from T11 to L2. A gross total resection was achieved with the patient maintaining full neurological function.
Severe facial pain and removal of maxillary sinus mucous retention cyst
Authors: Bozovičar Matija , Božič Marko
Published: April 2024

Maxillary sinus retention cysts (MRCs) are typically asymptomatic and require no treatment. An early 30s man presented with a decade-long history of severe left-sided chronic facial pain (CFP). Multiple prior treatments resulted in an edentulous patient with persistent pain. Imaging revealed a dome-shaped radiopaque change in the left maxillary sinus. History and clinical examination suggested persistent idiopathic facial pain, and doubts about the outcome of a surgical intervention were explained to the patient. Surgical removal of the MRC via lateral antrotomy led to complete symptom resolution of CFP. This case substantiates the importance of considering MRCs as a possible cause of CFP. It also emphasises the need for a systematic multidisciplinary approach in cases of unexplained CFP.
Delayed acute myocardial infarction in a young man with traumatic multivessel coronary artery dissection after blunt chest injury
Authors: Raffali Mohd Asyiq Al-Fard , Azmi Mohd Imree , Muhammad Syawal Faizal , Che Hassan Hamat Hamdi
Published: April 2024

A man in his 20s with no medical illness sustained a blunt chest injury with pneumothorax and lung contusion after involving in a motorbike accident. Five days postadmission, he subsequently had myocardial infarction with cardiac arrest, in which coronary angiogram and intravascular ultrasound showed diffused multivessel coronary artery dissection.
Evaluation of the SCAT 5 tool in the assessment of concussion in Para athletes: a Delphi study
Authors: Dyer Bryce , Ahmed Osman Hassan , Dahlén Sara , Dalton Kristin , Derman Wayne , Donaldson Amber , Fagher Kristina , Lexell Jan , Pinheiro Larissa , Van de Vliet Peter , Weiler Richard , Webborn Nick
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To investigate if the sport concussion assessment tool version 5 (SCAT5) could be suitable for application to Para athletes with a visual impairment, a spinal cord injury, or a limb deficiency.

Methods

A 16-member expert panel performed a Delphi technique protocol. The first round encompassed an open-ended questionnaire, with round 2 onwards being composed of a series of closed-ended statements requiring each expert’s opinion using a five-point Likert scale. A predetermined threshold of 66% was used to decide whether agreement had been reached by the panel.

Results

The Delphi study resulted in a four-round process. After round 1, 92 initial statements were constructed with 91 statements obtaining the targeted level of agreement by round 4. The expert panellist completion rate of the full four-round process was 94%. In the case of athletes with a suspected concussion with either limb deficiencies or spinal cord injuries, the panel agreed that a baseline assessment would be needed on record is ideal before a modified SCAT5 assessment. With respect to visual impairments, it was conceded that some tests were either difficult, infeasible or should be omitted entirely depending on the type of visual impairment.

Conclusion

It is proposed that the SCAT5 could be conducted on athletes with limb deficiencies or spinal cord injuries with some minor modifications and by establishing a baseline assessment to form a comparison. However, it cannot be recommended for athletes with visual impairment in its current form. Further research is needed to determine how potential concussions could be more effectively evaluated in athletes with different impairments.
Geospatial variation of exclusive breastfeeding and its determinants among mothers of infants under 6 months in Ethiopia: spatial and geographical weighted regression analysis
Authors: Yismaw Getaneh Awoke , Abuhay Habtamu Wagnew , Alemayehu Meron Asmamaw , Derseh Nebiyu Mekonnen , Agimas Muluken Chanie , Tesfie Tigabu Kidie
Published: April 2024

Background

Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is a major public health problem in Ethiopia. However, the spatial variation of EBF and the associated factors have not been studied as much as we have searched. This study aimed at assessing geospatial variation and the predictors of EBF using geographically weighted regression.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using the 2019 Mini-Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data set. The study used a total weighted sample of 548 infants. Hotspot spatial analysis showed the hotspot and cold spot areas of EBF. The spatial distribution of EBF was interpolated for the target population using spatial interpolation analysis. SaTScan V.9.6 software was used to detect significant clusters. Ordinary least squares regression analysis identified significant spatial predictors. In geographically weighted regression analysis, the effect of predictor variables on the spatial variation of EBF was detected using local coefficients.

Results

The weighted prevalence of EBF in Ethiopia was 58.97% (95% CI 52.67% to 64.99%), and its spatial distribution was found to be clustered (global Moran’s I=0.56, p<0.001). Significant hotspot areas were located in Amhara, Tigray, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region, and Somali regions, while significant cold spots were located in Dire Dawa, Addis Ababa and Oromia regions. Kulldorff’s SaTScan V.9.6 was used to detect significant clusters of EBF using a 50% maximum cluster size per population. The geographically weighted regression model explained 35.75% of the spatial variation in EBF. The proportions of households with middle wealth index and married women were significant spatial predictors of EBF.

Conclusion

Middle wealth index and married women were significant spatial predictors of EBF. Our detailed map of EBF hotspot areas will help policymakers and health programmers encourage the practice of EBF in hotspot areas and set national and regional programmes focused on improving EBF in cold spots by considering significant predictor variables.
Hospital-admitted drowning in Victoria, Australia, before and after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Berecki-Gisolf Janneke , Matthews Bernadette , Calverley Hannah , Abrahams Jonathan , Peden Amy E
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To examine trends in hospitalisation following drowning in Victoria, Australia, before and after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

Retrospective analysis of administrative hospital admission records.

Setting

Hospital admissions recorded in the Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset.

Participants

Hospital-admitted patients with ≥1 drowning-related International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision, Australian Modification diagnosis code.

Main outcome measures

Incidence and incidence rate ratios (IRR; 95% CIs) of hospital-admitted drowning that occurred before (July 2017 to June 2019), during (July 2019 to June 2021) and after (July 2021 to June 2022) the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

There were 736 hospital admissions related to drowning in the study period; the incidence was 2.6 per 100 000 population pre-COVID-19 and dropped to 2.0 per 100 000 during (2019/2020–2020/2021) and after (2021/2022) the onset of the pandemic. Among Victorian residents, drowning was positively associated with younger age, male sex and regional/remote residence. Drowning was negatively associated with the onset of COVID-19 (IRR 0.76 (0.64, 0.90)) as well as the post-COVID-19 period (0.78 (0.64, 0.97)), compared with pre-COVID-19. Natural water drowning rates were consistently higher than pool or bathtub drowning rates. Pool or bathtub drowning rates decreased with the onset of COVID-19; no significant change was observed in the natural water drowning rate.

Conclusion(s)

Pool and bathtub drowning rates declined since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, despite more time spent at home, while natural water drowning rates remained consistently high. Hospital admissions provide a valuable data source for monitoring of drowning, which is crucial to ensure a targeted, evidence-based approach to mitigate drowning risk.
Sex differences in ultramarathon performance in races with comparable numbers of males and females
Authors: Tiller Nicholas B. , Illidi Camilla R.
Published: April 2024

There is a prominent sex-based difference in athletic performance such that males outperform females by 7%–14% in races from 100 m to marathon. In ultramarathons, the difference is often much smaller, leading to speculation that females are “built” for the sport. However, data are confounded by the low number of female participants; just 10%–30% in any given race. This study compared data from two ultramarathons where males and females competed in comparable numbers. There were 116 and 146 starters in the 50 mile and 100 mile races, respectively (52% female). Finish times were compared using t tests or Mann–Whitney U tests, a Chi-squared test of independence examined the relationship between sex and ranking, and multivariable linear regressions examined relationships between sex, age, and finish time. There were 96 finishers in the 50 mile race (46% female) and 91 finishers in the 100 mile race (45% female). The median finish time for 50 miles was 12.64 ± 2.11 h with no difference between sexes (1.2%, p = 0.441). However, the top-10 males finished the race ∼85 min faster than the top-10 females (13.8%, p = 0.045). The mean finish time for 100 miles was 31.58 ± 3.36 h with no difference between sexes (3.2%, p = 0.132) and no difference between the top-10 males and top-10 females (4.4%, p = 0.150). Linear and multivariable regression models using sex and age were unable to predict overall finish time in either race. In conclusion, the sex-based performance discrepancy shrinks to 1%–3% in ultramarathons when males and females compete in comparable numbers. Top-performing males still retain a considerable advantage over shorter distances.
Fragments derived from non-coding RNAs: how complex is genome regulation?
Authors: Velázquez-Flores Miguel Ángel , Ruiz Esparza-Garrido Ruth
Published: April 2024

The human genome is highly dynamic and only a small fraction of it codes for proteins, but most of the genome is transcribed, highlighting the importance of non-coding RNAs on cellular functions. In addition, it is now known the generation of non-coding RNA fragments under particular cellular conditions and their functions have revealed unexpected mechanisms of action, converging, in some cases, with the biogenic pathways and action machineries of microRNAs or Piwi-interacting RNAs. This led us to the question why the cell produces so many apparently redundant molecules to exert similar functions and regulate apparently convergent processes? However, non-coding RNAs fragments can also function similarly to aptamers, with secondary and tertiary conformations determining their functions. In the present work, it was reviewed and analyzed the current information about the non-coding RNAs fragments, describing their structure and biogenic pathways, with special emphasis on their cellular functions.
Strain rate-dependent tensile deformation and failure behavior in single-crystal β-Sn
Authors: Yu Tianhao , Yan Yabin , Xuan Fuzhen
Published: April 2024

Given that electronic components often undergo intricate thermal and mechanical loads during operation, comprehensively understanding lead-free solder, particularly solder based on [Formula: see text]-Sn, in various complex load conditions, plays a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and functional reliability of integrated circuits. Therefore, investigating the mechanical properties and fracture behavior of [Formula: see text]-Sn as a solder material holds paramount importance. In this study, we performed molecular dynamics simulations using the modified embedded atom method to investigate the mechanical properties and crack propagation of single-crystal [Formula: see text]-Sn under different strain rates. The research findings demonstrate that as the strain rate increases, the single-crystal [Formula: see text]-Sn exhibits elevated yield strength, fracture strength, and strain, while the elastic modulus decreases. Under higher strain rates, the relationship between dislocation density and strain rate in single-crystal [Formula: see text]-Sn is quantitatively elucidated. The substantial increase in internal dislocation density imparts conspicuous strain hardening to the material, rendering plastic deformation more challenging. This observation sheds light on the microscale mechanism of strain hardening at the atomic level. Our results shall facilitate a deeper investigation into the mechanical behavior of single-crystal [Formula: see text]-Sn while also paving the path for optimizing the design and application of lead-free solder materials in the electronics industry.
Effects of Surya Namaskar yoga on perceived stress, anthropometric parameters, and physical fitness in overweight and obese female university students: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Suwannakul Boonsita , Sangkarit Noppharath , Thammachai Ajchamon , Tapanya Weerasak
Published: April 2024

Background: Stress and sedentary lifestyles negatively impact the physical fitness of overweight and obese female university students. Physical activity has been shown to promote psychological as well as physical wellness. However, the effects of Surya Namaskar (SN) yoga on stress and physical fitness remain unclear.

Objective: This study aimed to compare the physical fitness, anthropometric measures, and perceived stress between the SN yoga training program group and the control group.

Methods: In a randomized controlled study, 44 overweight and obese female university students participated. For 8 weeks, the exercise group received training in SN yoga, whereas the control group was not permitted to participate in any form of exercise. At baseline and after 8 weeks of training, all participants completed the Thai Perceived Stress Scale-10 (T-PSS-10), and assessed the body mass index (BMI), waist–hip ratio, body fat percentage, maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), and muscle strength and flexibility. We used the dependent t-test or Wilcoxon sign rank test to examine the differences between the T-PSS-10 and physical fitness within each group. The statistical differences of all parameters between the two groups were compared using an independent t-test or a Mann–Whitney U test. A p-[Formula: see text] was considered statistically significant.

Results: Compared to the baseline, the SN yoga group’s post-training period had a significant increase ([Formula: see text]) in forward back flexibility, hand grip strength, leg strength, and VO2max, while a significant decrease ([Formula: see text]) in T-PSS-10 scores and BMI. In addition, we found a significant difference between the both groups in forward back flexibility and T-PSS-10 scores in the post-training period ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively).

Conclusion: This study’s findings demonstrated that SN yoga is a useful exercise for enhancing overweight and obese female university students’ perceived stress scales and physical fitness.
Packing meets topology
Authors: Freedman Michael H.
Published: April 2024

This note initiates an investigation of packing links into a region of Euclidean space to achieve a maximal density subject to geometric constraints. The upper bounds obtained apply only to the class of homotopically essential links and even there seem extravagantly large, leaving much working room for the interested reader.
The famous fish beds of Lebanon: the Upper Cretaceous Lagerstätten of Haqel, Hjoula, Nammoura and Sahel Aalma
Authors: George Hady , Bazzi Mohamad , El Hossny Tamara , Ashraf Nida , Abi Saad Pierre , Clements Thomas
Published: April 2024

The fossils of the Lebanese Upper Cretaceous Lagerstätten, especially the articulated fish, are world renowned. Famous for their soft tissue preservation and highly sought after by fossil collectors, Lebanese fossils provide key information concerning the evolution of several major extant and extinct groups of Mesozoic organisms including cephalopods, crustaceans, hagfish, sharks, marine reptiles and pterosaurs. In fact, fossils from Lebanon are so exceptional that historical documentation describing them extends back to the Roman Empire. However, despite over 1600 years of knowledge of these fossils, a thorough understanding of the depositional environments, taphonomy and palaeoecology of the four main sites, Haqel, Hjoula, Nammoura (each Cenomanian in age) and Sahel Aalma (Santonian), is lacking. Here we compile a review of the palaeoenvironments, fauna and flora of these four Lebanese Lagerstätten. Our synthesis outlines the history of fossil discovery, and describes the current understanding of the geology, ages, mode of preservation and organisms found at these four sites. We also undertake a bibliometric and holotype analysis to investigate the impact that scientific colonialism has had on Lebanon. Our data confirm that local Lebanese researchers are typically not included in publications pertaining to Lebanese fossils and that the majority of Lebanese type material is stored in large historical collections outside Lebanon, predominantly in institutions within the northern hemisphere. Here, we recommend some basic practices for researchers utilizing historical collections that can help develop local Lebanese fossil collections and establish more research opportunities for local palaeontologists.
The impacts of igneous systems on sedimentary basins and their energy resources
Authors: Kilhams Ben , Holford Simon , Gardiner David , Gozzard Simon , Layfield Lucinda , McLean Charlotte , Thackrey Scott , Watson Douglas
Published: April 2024

This introduction briefly outlines the potential impact of igneous processes on sedimentary basins and their energy resources. The associated volume includes contributions across a range of scales; from margin-wide rifting to impacts on reservoir quality. The impact of igneous systems on elements such as tectonics, heat flow, hydrocarbon (and other) fluid charge, structuration and reservoirs are reviewed with a direct impact on hydrocarbon exploration and production, geothermal and carbon capture storage projects. A strong understanding of these commonly overlooked, igneous processes is likely to enable successful exploration for additional energy resources such as frontier hydrocarbons, geothermal heat, hydrogen as well as helium.