bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscle fibre size and myonuclear positioning in trained and aged humans
Authors: Battey Edmund , Levy Yotam , Pollock Ross D. , Pugh Jamie N. , Close Graeme L. , Kalakoutis Michaeljohn , Lazarus Norman R. , Harridge Stephen D. R. , Ochala Julien , Stroud Matthew J.
Published: March 2024

Changes in myonuclear architecture and positioning are associated with exercise adaptations and ageing. However, data on the positioning and number of myonuclei following exercise are inconsistent. Additionally, whether myonuclear domains (MNDs; i.e., the theoretical volume of cytoplasm within which a myonucleus is responsible for transcribing DNA) and myonuclear positioning are altered with age remains unclear. The aim of this investigation was to investigate relationships between age and activity status and myonuclear domains and positioning. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies from younger endurance‐trained (YT) and older endurance‐trained (OT) individuals were compared with age‐matched untrained counterparts (YU and OU; OU samples were acquired during surgical operation). Serial, optical z‐slices were acquired throughout isolated muscle fibres and analysed to give three‐dimensional coordinates for myonuclei and muscle fibre dimensions. The mean cross‐sectional area (CSA) of muscle fibres from OU individuals was 33%–53% smaller compared with the other groups. The number of nuclei relative to fibre CSA was 90% greater in OU compared with YU muscle fibres. Additionally, scaling of MND volume with fibre size was altered in older untrained individuals. The myonuclear arrangement, in contrast, was similar across groups. Fibre CSA and most myonuclear parameters were significantly associated with age in untrained individuals, but not in trained individuals. These data indicate that regular endurance exercise throughout the lifespan might better preserve the size of muscle fibres in older age and maintain the relationship between fibre size and MND volumes. Inactivity, however, might result in reduced muscle fibre size and altered myonuclear parameters.
Genetic Editing with CRISPR Cas9: recent Biomedical and Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Garzón Posse Fabián Andrés , Pinilla Peña Angie Kathleen , Rivas Velásquez Cesar Augusto , Murillo Virgüez María Camila , Gutiérrez Méndez Jorge Alberto
Published: March 2024

The use of a novel and powerful technology that allows for the precise editing of the genetic material of various organisms is becoming widespread. This technology derives from bacterial and archaeal defense machinery and is called CRISPR Cas9. Unlike other gene editing tools that exclusively rely on proteins, CRISPR Cas9 utilizes interactions between the target DNA and an RNA sequence that guides the Cas9 enzyme to alter the structure of a target gene. Various genome locations can be edited thanks to the ease of programming different guide RNA sequences, facilitating its use and implementation. Furthermore, the non-active version of the Cas9 protein, guided by its corresponding RNA, can be utilized for visualization processes of genetic material or, more recently, for the regulation of the transcription process. Considering the recent advances and possibilities in biomedical and biotechnological research, we must understand that the exploration of this technology is just beginning, and its eventual applications will influence the world around us on multiple levels. In this review, we describe the biological foundations of the functioning of the Cas9 nuclease, together with selected applications of its use in editing and regulating specific sections of the genetic material of various organisms. We also discuss some bioethical issues surrounding this subject.
Production of hypernuclei from antiproton capture within a relativistic transport model
Authors: Schmidt Alexander , Gaitanos Theodoros , Obertelli Alexandre , Rodríguez-Sánchez José Luis
Published: March 2024

Production yields of single-$$\Lambda $$
Λ
 hypernuclei from simulated peripheral annihilations of antiprotons after capture on various target nuclei are reported. The initial annihilation process and the production of excited hypernuclei are estimated within the GiBUU transport framework, while their deexcitation process is treated with the ABLA++ code. The yield of excited hypernuclei range from $$\sim $$
∼
0.3 % for $${}^{16}$$

16

O to $$\sim $$
∼
1.2 % for $${}^{132}$$

132

Xe per annihilation, consistent with previous measurements at LEAR, CERN. The yield of specific ground state hypernuclei after deexcitation reaches up to a few $$10^{-4}$$

10

-
4

per annihilation. The hypernuclei are produced in strangeness exchange reactions occuring between a nucleon of the target and the kaons originating from the annihilation in $$\sim $$
∼
80 % of the cases, while the strangeness pair production in secondary pion-nucleon collision contributes to the remaining $$\sim $$
∼
20 %. The simulations indicate that antiproton annihilations at rest on different nuclei could populate a wide range of so-far unexplored hypernuclei.
Radiation hardness of MALTA2 monolithic CMOS imaging sensors on Czochralski substrates
Authors: van Rijnbach Milou , Berlea Dumitru Vlad , Dao Valerio , Gaži Martin , Allport Phil , Tortajada Ignacio Asensi , Behera Prafulla , Bortoletto Daniela , Buttar Craig , Dachs Florian , Dash Ganapati , Dobrijević Dominik , Fasselt Lucian , de Acedo Leyre Flores Sanz , Gabrielli Andrea , Gonella Laura , González Vicente , Gustavino Giuliano , Jana Pranati , Li Long , Pernegger Heinz , Piro Francesco , Riedler Petra , Sandaker Heidi , Sánchez Carlos Solans , Snoeys Walter , Suligoj Tomislav , Núñez Marcos Vázquez , Vijay Anusree , Weick Julian , Worm Steven , Zoubir Abdelhak M.
Published: March 2024

MALTA2 is the latest full-scale prototype of the MALTA family of Depleted Monolithic Active Pixel Sensors (DMAPS) produced in Tower Semiconductor 180 nm CMOS sensor imaging technology. In order to comply with the requirements of high energy physics (HEP) experiments, various process modifications and front-end changes have been implemented to achieve low power consumption, reduce random telegraph signal (RTS) noise, and optimise the charge collection geometry. Compared to its predecessors, MALTA2 targets the use of a high-resistivity, thick Czochralski (Cz) substrates in order to demonstrate radiation hardness in terms of detection efficiency and timing resolution up to 3 $$\times $$
×
10$$^{15}$$

15

1 MeV $$\mathrm {n_{eq}/{cm}^2}$$

n
eq

/

cm

2

with backside metallisation to achieve good propagation of the bias voltage. This manuscript shows the results that were obtained with non-irradiated and irradiated MALTA2 samples on Cz substrates from the CERN SPS test beam campaign from 2021 to 2023 using the MALTA telescope.
Porous Cage Macro-Topography Improves Early Fusion Rates in Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
Authors: Malham Gregory M. , Biddau Dean T. , Laggoune Jordan P. , Faulks Charlie R. , Walsh William R. , Wang Yi Yuen
Published: March 2024

Objectives. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) aims to improve pain, relieve neural compression, achieve rapid solid bony arthrodesis, and restore cervical alignment. Bony fusion occurs as early as 3 months and up to 24 months after ACDF. The correlations between bony fusion and clinical outcomes after ACDF remain unclear. Macro-topographic and porous features have been introduced to interbody cage technology, aiming to improve the strength of the bone-implant interface to promote early fusion. In this study, we aimed to compare clinical outcomes and CT-evaluated fusion rates in patients undergoing ACDF using one of two different interbody cages: traditional NanoMetalene™ (NM) cages and NM cages with machined porous features (NMRT). Methods. This was a prospective, observational, nonrandomised, cohort study of consecutive patients undergoing ACDF. The NM cage cohort was enrolled first, then the NMRT cohort second. The visual analogue scale, neck disability index, and 12-item Short Form Survey scores were evaluated preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. The minimum clinical follow-up period was 12 months. Plain radiographs were obtained on postoperative day 2 to assess instrumentation positioning, and computed tomography (CT) was performed at 3 and 6 months postoperatively to assess interbody fusion (Bridwell grade). Results. Eighty-nine (52% male) patients with a mean age of 62 ± 10.5 years were included in this study. Forty-one patients received NM cages, and 48 received NMRT cages. All clinical outcomes improved significantly from baseline to 6 months. By 3 months, the NMRT group had significantly higher CT fusion rates than the NM group (79% vs 56%, p=0.02). By 6 months, there were no significant differences in fusion rates between the NMRT and NM groups (83% vs 78%, p=0.69). The mean Bridwell grade at 6 months was 1.4 ± 0.7 in the NMRT group and 1.8 ± 1.0 in the NM group (p=0.08). Conclusions. With both NM and NMRT cages, serial improvements in postoperative clinical outcomes were associated with fusion progression on CT. NMRT cages demonstrated significantly better fusion at 3 months and a trend toward higher quality of fusion at 6 months compared with NM cages, suggesting earlier cage integration with NMRT. An early 3-month postoperative CT is adequate for fusion assessment in almost 80% of patients undergoing ACDF with an NMRT cage, permitting an earlier return to activity.
Single Dose Intravenous Paracetamol versus Placebo in Postorthognathic Surgery Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sumphaongern Thunshuda , Jansisyanont Pornchai
Published: March 2024

Background. The postorthognathic surgery patients experienced moderate to severe pain and could be at risk for opioid-related side effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a single dose of intravenous paracetamol to control postorthognathic surgery pain and reduce opioid consumption. Methods. The patients were randomized into two groups. The study group received intravenous paracetamol and the control group received a placebo immediately postoperation. The visual analogue pain scale (VAS) at 1-, 4-, 8-, 12-, 16-, 20-, and 24 -h postoperatively, morphine consumption, side effects from morphine, and patient satisfaction were analyzed. Results. Sixty-two patients (thirty-one patients in each group) were included. The postoperative VAS in the study group was significantly lower than those in the control group (p value <0.001) at all time points. The total postoperative morphine consumption in the study group (45.1 ± 21.2 mcg/kg) was significantly lower compared with the control group (136.5 ± 49.9 mcg/kg) (p value <0.001). Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the study group (4.7 ± 0.5 out of 5 points) than in the control group (4.1 ± 0.7 out of 5 points) (p value <0.001). The incidence of nausea and vomiting was significantly lower in the study group compared with the control group (p value <0.001 and 0.002, respectively). Conclusion. A single dose of intravenous paracetamol as part of multimodal analgesia was effective for postorthognathic surgery pain. It provided significant benefits to patients, including reduced pain scores, decreased opioid consumption, reduced nausea and vomiting, and improved satisfaction. This trial is registered with TCTR20210908002.
O livro da Experimentoteca: educação para ciências da natureza através de práticas experimentais
Authors:   Universidade Metodista de Piracicaba, Tomazello Maria Guiomar Carneiro , Schiel Dietrich ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Física de São Carlos
Published: March 2024

Experimentoteca é um laboratório das Ciências da Natureza que pretende racionalizar o uso de material experimental, da mesma maneira que uma biblioteca pública facilita o acesso de um grande número de publicações a um público extenso. Nos locais onde a Experimentoteca entrou em uso, ela é sediada em centros de ciências, prefeituras municipais, delegacias de ensino, institutos universitários que mantêm convênio com autoridades educacionais, parques de tecnologia, clubes de Ciência e escolas. Um mesmo acervo pode atender simultaneamente de 20 a 30 escolas e, por ano, mais de 8.000 alunos podem usá-lo. A Experimentoteca é projetada de acordo com modernas técnicas de design, permitindo a reprodução em série. Foram solicitadas patentes para o sistema. O critério para escolha e produção de tópicos (kits, filmes ou jogos) sempre foi o aspecto prático da conveniência do uso em sala de aula. Faltou assim, ao final do projeto, um texto que reunisse informações essenciais para a compreensão do conteúdo científico e das diretrizes metodológicas para a aplicação em classe. Ele é agora apresentado neste livro, com um apêndice reunindo o acervo completo de roteiros, que foram produzidos, em grande parte, com a colaboração de professores em serviço, que trouxeram e discutiram as possibilidades metodológicas de sua aplicação em sala de aula.
The Evolving Media Ecosystem and Religious Patterns in Anantnag, Kashmir
Authors: Mir Raoof
Published: March 2024

This paper explores how followers of Islamic traditions in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, articulate their religious experiences within the context of various communication mediums. The primary aim is to examine how Islamic traditions in Anantnag uphold their relationship with diverse media symbols and formats, while exploring how individuals in this Muslim-majority region derive religious significance from their engagement with various media platforms. The paper aims to illuminate the processes associated with communicating Islamic traditions within the evolving context of media history in Anantnag. By employing in-depth interviews and a thorough review of existing literature, this paper argues that each media form holds a distinctive influence in shaping religious practices and discourses within the context of Anantnag. To understand how Muslims construct meaning through engagement with media of religious significance, this paper delves into narratives of self-identity, considering them as essential resources for illustrating the intersection of religious patterns and media landscapes in Anantnag.
A new species and a new record of Phanera (Fabaceae) in Laos, with a lectotypification and a new combination for P. involucrans
Authors: YAMAMOTO TAKENORI , SOULADETH PHETLASY , SOUTAKONE KHAMMON , KONGXAISAVATH DEUANTA , TAGANE SHUICHIRO
Published: March 2024

A new species of Phanera (Fabaceae), P. roseoalba from the Bolaven Plateau, southern Laos, is described and illustrated, along with its vernacular name and preliminary conservation status. In addition, a distribution of P. nervosa is recorded in Laos for the first time, and a second-step lectotypification is made for Bauhinia involucrans, with a proposal of its new combination P. involucrans.­
Plant collecting in São Tomé and Príncipe—collectors and their itineraries during the colonial period
Authors: FIGUEIREDO ESTRELA , SMITH GIDEON F. , F. DE LIMA RICARDO
Published: March 2024

The history of vascular plant collecting on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, from the earliest times up to the independence of the country in 1975 is provided, along with biographical information on all the collectors that could be traced, with notes on their itineraries, collecting localities, and collections. Aspects of the social environment prevalent in São Tomé and Príncipe at the time that historical collections were made are highlighted and contextualised to enable an improved understanding of connections between scientific-botanical endeavour, colonialism, and slavery on São Tomé and Príncipe.
Lilium shenxianjuense (Liliaceae), a new species from Zhejiang, China
Authors: YE MING-YUE , ZHOU XIN , PENG YA-JUN , ZHU ZHI-MING , LI PAN , XU YUE-LIANG , JIN XIAO-FENG
Published: March 2024

Lilium shenxianjuense, a new species of Liliaceae from Zhejiang, China, is described with illustrations. Phylogenetic analysis based on complete plastomes places the new species as sister to a clade that comprises species of L. sect. Sinomartagon. Morphologically, L. shenxianjuense is like L. concolor and L. lancifolium, but differs in habitat preferences and morphology. The plastome is like those of other species of Lilium in gene content and structure. The new species is critically endangered and in need of urgent protection.
Begonia tripurensis (Begoniaceae, sect. Platycentrum), a new species from Tripura, Northeast India
Authors: BORA DIXIT , BORAH DIPANKAR , HUGHES MARK , DAS SANI , BANIK BIPLAB , DEBBARMA SMITA , DATTA BADAL KUMAR
Published: March 2024

A new species of Begonia sect. Platycentrum is described here from the moist deciduous forest of Tirthamukh near Dumboor Lake, Tripura, India. It is similar to B. scintillans, B. chindwinensis and B. thomsonii but differs in plant size, hair characters, petiole length, flowers, stamens and fruits. A description with coloured photographs and information on the phenology and habitat are provided.
Collybiopsis baiyunensis sp. nov. (Omphalotaceae, Agaricales) from Baiyun Mountain, Southern China
Authors: LIU XIAO-CHUN , LIN ZHI-JUN , LIANG YING-SHAN , CAO LI-XIANG , QIU LI-HONG
Published: March 2024

Collybiopsis baiyunensis, a new species collected from Baiyun Mountain, Guangzhou, Southern China, is described based on phylogenetic analyses of combined ITS and nrLSU sequences and morphological evidence. It is characterized by its light brown to yellowish brown pileus with reddish orange to reddish brown disc and whitish margin, oblong to subcylindrical basidiospores, clavate to broadly clavate or spheropedunculate cheilocystidia, absence of pleurocystidia, and cylindrical or flexuose caulocystidia. Detailed morphological descriptions, phylogenetic analyses and comparisons with closely related species are presented.
A brief note on the nomenclatural types of two Linnaean names: Polypodium varium and Trichomanes chinense
Authors: FERRER-GALLEGO P. PABLO
Published: March 2024

N/A
Systematics of Pilielmis Hinton, 1971 (Coleoptera: Dryopoidea: Elmidae)
Authors: PINEDO-GARCIA RAUL BISMARCK , POLIZEI THIAGO TADEU SILVA , HAMADA NEUSA , NASCIMENTO JEANE MARCELLE CAVALCANTE DO
Published: March 2024

Pilielmis is a small genus of Neotropical Elmidae found in the Amazon basin and French Guiana, with distribution in five countries: Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Peru, and Venezuela. Currently, seven species of Pilielmis are known, six of which were described in the original description of the genus by Hinton (1971), and the most recent one was described by Polizei & Barclay (2019). In this paper, we review the genus Pilielmis based on the analysis of type-specimens and material collected in different regions of northern South America. A phylogenetic study was performed to hypothesize the relationship between all species of Pilielmis and to test the monophyly of this genus. For this purpose, 42 morphological characters of adults were investigated, among them some structures that were not illustrated and described in the original descriptions. As result, all seven previously known species were redescribed with standardized morphological information. Three new species were discovered in the examined material: Pilielmis baniwa sp. nov., Pilielmis muricula sp. nov., Pilielmis nheengatu sp. nov. A key for identification of the adults of Pilielmis is proposed and new records for Suriname, Peru, and some Brazilian states are presented. The phylogenetic analysis corroborated the monophyly of Pilielmis and presented phylogenetic information from characteristics not used before in the taxonomy of the genus, such as mouth parts and female ovipositor.
Taxonomy and stratigraphic distribution of Lotagnostus (Agnostida: Agnostidae) and associated trilobites and conodonts in the Upper Cambrian (Furongian) of Laurentia
Authors: TAYLOR JOHN F. , LOCH JAMES D. , REPETSKI JOHN E.
Published: March 2024

Two Lotagnostus-dominated faunas from the Windfall Formation at Ninemile Canyon in the Antelope Range of Nevada, USA, are described: an older Lotagnostus nolani Fauna and younger L. rushtoni Fauna. The former is dominated by two morphs of Lotagnostus, one strongly scrobiculate and the other smooth to weakly scrobiculate. Both morphs fall within the broad concept advocated for L. americanus by Peng et al. (2015). The numerous (>1400 sclerites) specimens of Lotaganostus in collections of the L. nolani Fauna confirm that the two morphs do not intergrade and remain distinct throughout ontogeny. Both display multiple traits that distinguish them from the type material of L. americanus, justifying treatment as separate species. Similarly unique, diagnostic features were identified to restore the Asian species L. punctatus and L. asiaticus to full species status, whereas deficiencies in the type material for L. americanus warrant restriction of the name to the holotype. New species described from the Windfall include five agnostoids (Lotagnostus nolani, L. clarki, L. morrisoni, L. rushtoni, and Neoagnostus parki) and one trilobite (Bienvillia eurekensis). Plicatolina nyensis Taylor is reassigned to Mendoparabolina on the form of its pygidium.
Conodonts from the Catlin Member of the Windfall Formation and overlying informal Caryocaris shale member of the Goodwin Formation at Ninemile Canyon provide a late Sunwaptan (Eoconodontus Zone) age for the Lotagnostus rushtoni Fauna and assign the entire Caryocaris shale to the early Ordovician Rossodus manitouensis Zone. Combined with published data on trilobite faunas, the conodont faunas confirm strong diachroneity for the top of the Catlin, and a lack of overlap in age between the Caryocaris shale and Bullwhacker Member of the Windfall in ranges to the north and east.
Co-occurrence of Lotagnostus nolani and Mendoparabolina nyensis establishes age equivalence of the L. nolani Fauna with the Hedinaspis-Charchaqia (HC) Fauna at the base of the Hales Limestone in the Hot Creek Range, and earlier correlations of the latter with the L. punctatus Zone in Asia are supported. However, isolation of the HC Fauna in starved-basin deposits above a major sequence boundary at the base of the Hales, and ecologic restriction of Lotagnostus to lower slope and basinal environments that prevented association with endemic shallow marine taxa, renders correlation into the biostratigraphy of Laurentian upper slope and platform imprecise on the order of 10s, if not 100s of meters.
Monitoring Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization murine model using a bioluminescent methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA)
Authors: Silva Juliana G da , Boechat Juliana PC , Silva Bruno DJ , Müller Rodrigo , Senna José PM
Published: March 2024

Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriage is considered a risk factor for infections, and the development of nasal decolonization strategies is highly relevant. Despite they are not naturally colonized by Staphylococcus, mice are a good model for S. aureus nasal colonization. Murine models are easy to manipulate, and inter-laboratory reproducibility makes them suitable for nasal colonization studies. Strategies using bioluminescent bacteria allow for the monitoring of infection over time without the need to sacrifice animals for bacterial quantification. In this study, we evaluated S. aureus nasal colonization in three mouse strains (BALB/c, C57BL/6, and Swiss Webster) using a bioluminescent strain (SAP231). In vitro, a visible Bioluminescent Signal Emission (BLSE) was observed until 106 bacteria and detected by IVIS® imaging system up to 104 cells. Animals were inoculated with one or two doses of approximately 109 colony-forming units (CFU) of SAP231. Swiss Webster mice showed the longest colonization time, with some animals presenting BLSE for up to 140 h. In addition, BLSE was higher in this strain. BALB/c and C57BL/6 strains showed consistent BLSE results for 48 h. BLSE intensity was higher in Swiss Webster inoculated with both doses. Three different positions for image capture were evaluated, with better results for the lateral and ventrodorsal positions. After the loss of BLSE, bacterial quantification was performed, and Swiss Webster mice presented more bacteria in the nasal cavity (approximately 105 CFU) than the other strains. Our results demonstrate that bioluminescent S. aureus allow monitoring of nasal colonization and estimation of the bacterial burden present in live animals until 48 h.
The Interpretation of the Epiclesis from the Acta Graeca of the Council of Florence (1439) and Its Impact on the Editio Princeps of the Liturgies of St. John Chrysosotom and St. Basil the Great: Nicholas Cabasilas Reinterpreted
Authors: Bernatsky Mikhail
Published: March 2024

In this article we demonstrate that the interpretation of the epiclesis of the Byzantine liturgy, contained in the so-called “descriptive” part of the Acta graeca of the Florence Council (1439), is a reinterpretation of Nicholas Cabasilas's anti-Latin argumentation, presented in his “An Explanation of the Divine Liturgy.” This reinterpretation had as its source the explanation of the epiclesis in the Thomistic spirit offered in the debate by a Dominican cardinal Juan de Torquemada and recorded in the Acta Latina. Further we hypothesize that this new interpretation became the basis of a new method of Catholic proselytism in the following centuries and impacted the editio princeps of the texts of the Liturgies of St. John and St. Basil in 1526, on which subsequent editions of the Venetian euchologies depend. In that edition, we believe, the specific interpolations, which were previously seldom encountered in the early manuscripts in different contexts, have been made to form a correct “intention” of the celebrant according to the sacramentology of the Catholic Church. We are sure that the results of our study could become a paradigm for reconsidering, for instance, the causes and content of the disputes on the moment of consecration that have taken place since the sixteenth century.
Fixed position varying pore structure of weft-knitted seamless fabric and heat/moisture transfer mechanism
Authors: Dong Zhijia , Fang Xueming , Ding Yuqin , Cong Honglian , Ma Pibo
Published: March 2024

In this work, two functional superfine polyester yarns were selected as face yarns, three conventional yarns were selected as ground yarns, and 18 fabrics were designed by using a combination of three different plating structures. Then, through contact angle measurements, moisture management performance, thermal management performance, and breathability tests, we evaluated the effects of raw material, structure, and pore characteristics on the fabric’s hygrothermal comfort, and furthermore assessed the prioritization of the three factors using a range analysis. The results show that fabrics with face yarn of 75 D/288 F have better hydrophilicity, and fabrics with face yarn of 50 D/216 F have a better temperature control effect. The fabric with spandex/polyester covered yarn or spandex/nylon covered yarn has the best moisture transmission, and the unidirectional transfer index can reach 300%. The microstructure has a great influence on air permeability, and the surface porosity is positively correlated with air permeability. Combined with the heat and humidity division of the sports body, the development of efficient zonal positioning of heat and moisture management sports undershirts can provide certain theoretical support for the design of weft-knitted seamless sports products.
Association Between Community Elderly Care Services and the Physical and Emotional Burden of Family Caregivers of Older Adults: Evidence from Beijing, China
Authors: Gao Xiuwen , Tang Yong
Published: March 2024

The rate of usage of community elderly care services in China is low, and past studies about the effects of these services on caregiver burden domestically are few. This study used a large sample of Beijing census data ( n = 55,634) to examine the impact of these services on caregiver burden. Logistic regression and propensity score matching were used to estimate the effects. The results showed that meal assistance, respite care, and spiritual comfort are all significantly associated with a lower likelihood of perceived emotional burden among caregivers, while only respite care is very significantly associated with a lower likelihood of feeling physically burdened. However, the effects of these services on caregiver burden also depend on the activities of daily living performance and location of residence of the care recipients. The practical implications for policy makers are discussed.
Recent advances in mechanical properties of Mg matrix composites: a review
Authors: Aydın Fatih
Published: March 2024

Magnesium (Mg), with a density of two-thirds of aluminium (Al) and one-fourth of steel, has become one of the most attractive materials for automotive and aerospace industries owing to the obligation to reduce fuel consumption and gas emissions. However, the poor mechanical property of Mg is one of the most significant barriers to its widespread use. The most widely used method to increase the use potential of Mg is the development of Mg matrix composites. This review focuses on the mechanical properties of recent Mg matrix composites. The effect of different reinforcement materials on the mechanical behaviour and failure mechanisms of Mg matrix composites was evaluated in detail.
Efficacy of laparoscopic pyeloplasty for pediatric hydronephrosis caused by symptomatic versus asymptomatic endogenous ureteropelvic junction obstruction: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Shao Guanghui , Sun Zhihao , Zhou Zhihang , Wang Weizhen , Li Aiwu
Published: March 2024

Objective

To retrospectively compare the differences in the surgical efficacy and prognosis of laparoscopic pyeloplasty for hydronephrosis caused by symptomatic versus asymptomatic ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children and determine whether clinical symptoms affect the surgical outcome and prognosis.

Methods

Children who underwent laparoscopic pyeloplasty in our hospital from January 2018 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The children were divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic groups according to their main symptoms. The primary outcomes were the surgical success rate, change in renal parenchymal thickness, and change in renal pelvis anteroposterior diameter. The secondary outcomes were postoperative complications, reoperation rate, operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, and drainage tube indwelling time.

Results

In total, 224 children with UPJO were enrolled; 148 (66.1%) were symptomatic and 76 (33.9%) were asymptomatic. The symptomatic group showed a significantly greater mean change in renal parenchymal thickness, significantly higher surgical success rate, and significantly lower postoperative complication rate.

Conclusions

In the present study, asymptomatic children had a lower surgical success rate, less postoperative imaging improvement, and more postoperative complications than symptomatic children. The presence or absence of clinical symptoms may affect the surgical outcome and prognosis.
The role of registries in improving health and bridging healthcare, research, education, innovation and development: a research department perspective
Authors: Posadas-Martinez Maria Lourdes , Vicens Jimena , Dawidowski Adriana Ruth , Martinez Von Scheidt Marcela Alejandra , Pagotto Vanina Laura , Blugerman Gabriela Alejandra , Schpilberg Monica Gabriela , Gadano Adrian Carlos
Published: March 2024

Health registries are organized systems that collect data on individuals with a particular disease, condition or exposure. The aim of this narrative review was to provide an integrated perspective from the Research Department at the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Argentina, on how health registries can be used as a bridge between healthcare, research, education, innovation and development while addressing ethical challenges. The review includes a description of the experience of a registry implemented at our institution, which has provided healthcare for 170 years, and is committed to support, education and research. We focus on the potential of health registries to provide better value healthcare by reducing healthcare costs and improving health outcomes and quality of care, and to improve medical knowledge. However, we also acknowledge and discuss the challenges that accompany these achievements, such as that of ethical issues. Through effective collaboration and integration with other healthcare stakeholders, health registries can be a powerful tool to promote better health.
Does producer services agglomeration improve industrial energy efficiency in China?
Authors: Jiang Zhuqing , Liu Jianjiang , Chen Weitao , Dong Fangyuan
Published: March 2024

Promoting structural transformation and energy efficiency improvement by grouping productive services is a significant action for China's targets of realizing carbon neutrality and carbon peak. This study employs the spatial Durbin model to explore the influences of the agglomeration of producer services (producer services agglomeration) on industrial energy efficiency using panel data from China, specifically from its prefecture-level cities. It turned out that the specialization producer services agglomeration has effectively improved the industrial energy efficiency of the city and its adjacent areas. However, the producer services agglomeration in diverse fields only plays a positive stimulating role in the energy efficiency standards of the city. After changing the industrial energy efficiency index, and sample size and considering endogeneity, the test results agree with the benchmark estimation outcomes. Additional research indicates that technological spillovers and manufacturing production costs exert a significant mediation influence in the process of promoting energy efficiency by producer services agglomeration. Furthermore, the producer services agglomeration has a substantial heterogeneous effect on the industrial energy efficiency due to differences in industry types of producer services. The conclusion of this article is of considerable relevance for China to rely on the producer services agglomeration to support effective energy utilization, as well as green and sustainable economic development.
Simulation models for aggregated data meta-analysis: Evaluation of pooling effect sizes and publication biases
Authors: van den Heuvel Edwin R , Almalik Osama , Zhan Zhuozhao
Published: March 2024

Simulation studies are commonly used to evaluate the performance of newly developed meta-analysis methods. For methodology that is developed for an aggregated data meta-analysis, researchers often resort to simulation of the aggregated data directly, instead of simulating individual participant data from which the aggregated data would be calculated in reality. Clearly, distributional characteristics of the aggregated data statistics may be derived from distributional assumptions of the underlying individual data, but they are often not made explicit in publications. This article provides the distribution of the aggregated data statistics that were derived from a heteroscedastic mixed effects model for continuous individual data and a procedure for directly simulating the aggregated data statistics. We also compare our simulation approach with other simulation approaches used in literature. We describe their theoretical differences and conduct a simulation study for three meta-analysis methods: DerSimonian and Laird method for pooling aggregated study effect sizes and the Trim & Fill and precision-effect test and precision-effect estimate with standard errors method for adjustment of publication bias. We demonstrate that the choice of simulation model for aggregated data may have an impact on (the conclusions of) the performance of the meta-analysis method. We recommend the use of multiple aggregated data simulation models to investigate the sensitivity in the performance of the meta-analysis method. Additionally, we recommend that researchers try to make the individual participant data model explicit and derive from this model the distributional consequences of the aggregated statistics to help select appropriate aggregated data simulation models.
Patient Cranial Angle and Intrafractional Stability in CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Kang Chen-Lin , Huang Ya-Yu , Chen Yi-Ren , Tsai Shu-Huei , Huang Chun-Chieh , Huang Yu-Jie
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate whether variations in cranial angles and treatment accuracy during CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery necessitate adjustment of the margins of the planning target volume. Patients and Methods: Data from 66 patients receiving CyberKnife treatment for brain tumors were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were immobilized using a thermoplastic mask and headrest. The cranial angle was measured on planning CT and patients were divided into 2 groups: ≤10° (Group A) and >10° (Group B). Intrafractional motion was recorded using the CyberKnife tracking system over 50 min. Translational and rotational errors were compared between groups, and planning target volume margins were calculated. Results: In Group A, significant translational error differences were found along with the X-axis over time ( P < .02). In Group B, significant differences occurred along with the Z-axis ( P < .03). No significant rotational or 3-dimensional vector differences were found in either group. Group A had significantly lower Y-axis ( P < .045) and roll axis ( P < .005) errors compared to Group B. Estimated planning target volume margins in Group A were 0.56 mm (X), 0.46 mm (Y), and 0.47 mm (Z). In Group B, margins were 0.62 mm (X), 0.48 mm (Y), and 0.46 mm (Z). Margins covering 95% of intrafraction motion were 0.49 to 0.50 mm (X, Y, Z) and 0.69 mm (3-dimensional vector) for Group A, and 0.48 to 0.60 mm and 0.79 mm for Group B. With a 1-mm margin, complete coverage was achieved in Group A while 2.1% of vectors in Group B exceeded 1 mm. Conclusion: Adjusting cranial angle to ≤10° during thermoplastic mask molding provided better or similar intrafractional stability compared to >10°.
Resting-state EEG as Biomarker of Maladaptive Motor Function and Depressive Profile in Stroke Patients
Authors: Marques Lucas M. , Barbosa Sara Pinto , Gianlorenço Anna Carolyna , Pacheco-Barrios K. , Souza Daniel R. , Matheus Denise , Battistella Linamara , Simis Marcel , Fregni Felipe
Published: March 2024

Objective: Investigate the relationship between resting-state EEG-measured brain oscillations and clinical and demographic measures in Stroke patients. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional analysis of a cohort study (DEFINE cohort), Stroke arm, with 85 patients, considering demographic, clinical, and stroke characteristics. Resting-state EEG relative power from delta, theta, alpha, and beta oscillations were measured from the central region. Multivariate regression models were used for both affected and non-affected hemispheres. Results: Motor function was negatively associated with Delta and Theta oscillations, while positively associated with Alpha oscillations (both hemispheres). Similarly, cognition levels measured were negatively associated with Delta activity. Depression levels were negatively associated with Alpha activity specifically in the affected hemisphere, while positively associated with Beta activity in both hemispheres. Regarding pain measures, no significant association was observed, while CPM measure showed a positive association with Alpha activity in the non-affected hemisphere. Finally, we found that theta/alpha ratio was negatively associated with motor function and CPM scores. Conclusion: The results lead us to propose a framework for brain oscillations in stroke, whereas Delta and Beta would represent disrupted mal-adaptive brain plasticity and Theta and Alpha would represent compensatory and functional brain oscillations for motor and sensory deficits in stroke, respectively.
Pre-conception counselling
Authors: Fullerton Dr Katie
Published: March 2024

Pre-conception counselling (PCC) involves giving advice to people planning a pregnancy to optimise their health and maximise their chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy and baby. GPs have an important role in PCC, though some patients may receive PCC within secondary care. This article aims to provide an overview of what GPs should address with people requesting pre-conception advice. It focusses on practice in the United Kingdom; people in other countries and healthcare environments may have different needs.
Management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Akinpelu Dr Akinsola , Getty Dr Joshua
Published: March 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant global health concern, contributing to morbidity and mortality. Keeping up to date with the advances in COPD management can enhance patient outcomes and is important for primary care clinicians. This review aims to examine current national and international guidelines, providing primary care clinicians with valuable insights into the evolving landscape of COPD management.
How to Evaluate Online Education for General Practitioners: Development of a Tailored Questionnaire for Heart Failure Education
Authors: Raat Willem , Housiaux Evelyne , Smeets Miek , Janssens Stefan , Schoenmakers Birgitte , Vaes Bert
Published: March 2024

Physician-oriented online education could be a pathway to improve care for patients with heart failure, however, it is difficult to measure the impact of such education. Self-efficacy is a potential outcome measure. In this article, we develop a methodology for analyzing an educational intervention for general practitioners (GPs) using self-efficacy as a concept. This study was partly conducted within the setting of an observational study, IMPACT-B, where we developed online education for GPs. We designed and refined a 24-item questionnaire using item analysis, and exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Ninety-one GPs completed the questionnaire before and after the online education. Follow-up data after 6 months was available for 13 GPs. Item analysis revealed a high degree of internal consistency (coefficient alpha 0.95) and validity. Each additional year of experience was associated with an average baseline self-efficacy score of 0.50 points (95% CI [0.21-0.80]), and each additional patient in HF follow-up with an average score of 2.0 points (95% CI [0.48-3.5]). Items that differentiated most between GPs with high and low self-efficacy were the treatment of congestion as well as titrating medication and MRA in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Factor analysis reduced the number of questions to 14, mapping to three factors (diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up), and improved the model fit as measured by the goodness-of-fit indicator comparative-fit-index (from 0.83 to 0.91). We demonstrated a method to assess the impact of online education on general practitioners. This led to a questionnaire that was reliable, valid, and convenient to use in an implementation context.
Decoding pain through facial expressions: a study of patients with migraine
Authors: Chen Wei-Ta , Hsiao Fu-Jung , Coppola Gianluca , Wang Shuu-Jiun
Published: March 2024

Background

The present study used the Facial Action Coding System (FACS) to analyse changes in facial activities in individuals with migraine during resting conditions to determine the potential of facial expressions to convey information about pain during headache episodes.

Methods

Facial activity was recorded in calm and resting conditions by using a camera for both healthy controls (HC) and patients with episodic migraine (EM) and chronic migraine (CM). The FACS was employed to analyse the collected facial images, and intensity scores for each of the 20 action units (AUs) representing expressions were generated. The groups and headache pain conditions were then examined for each AU.

Results

The study involved 304 participants, that is, 46 HCs, 174 patients with EM, and 84 patients with CM. Elevated headache pain levels were associated with increased lid tightener activity and reduced mouth stretch. In the CM group, moderate to severe headache attacks exhibited decreased activation in the mouth stretch, alongside increased activation in the lid tightener, nose wrinkle, and cheek raiser, compared to mild headache attacks (all corrected p < 0.05). Notably, lid tightener activation was positively correlated with the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) level of headache (p = 0.012). Moreover, the lip corner depressor was identified to be indicative of emotional depression severity (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Facial expressions, particularly lid tightener actions, served as inherent indicators of headache intensity in individuals with migraine, even during resting conditions. This indicates that the proposed approach holds promise for providing a subjective evaluation of headaches, offering the benefits of real-time assessment and convenience for patients with migraine.
Surgical outcomes of anterior column reconstruction for spinal fractures caused by minor trauma-preoperative examination of the number of intervertebral bone bridges is key to obtaining good bone fusion-
Authors: Furukawa Mitsuru , Fujiyoshi Kanehiro , Kajikawa Keita , Kobayashi Yoshiomi , Konomi Tsunehiko , Yato Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2024

Background

To achieve good bone fusion in anterior column reconstruction for vertebral fractures, not only bone mineral density (BMD) and bone metabolism markers but also lever arms due to bone bridging between vertebral bodies should be evaluated. However, until now, no lever arm index has been devised. Therefore, we believe that the maximum number of vertebral bodies that are bony and cross-linked with the contiguous adjacent vertebrae (maxVB) can be used as a measure for lever arms. The purpose of this study is to investigate the surgical outcomes of anterior column reconstruction for spinal fractures and to determine the effect of bone bridging between vertebral bodies on the rate of bone fusion using the maxVB as an indicator of the length of the lever arm.

Methods

The clinical data of 81 patients who underwent anterior column reconstruction for spinal fracture between 2014 and 2022 were evaluated. The bone fusion rate, back pain score, between the maxVB = 0 and the maxVB ≥ 2 patients were adjusted for confounding factors (age, smoking history, diabetes mellitus history, BMD, osteoporosis drugs, surgical technique, number of fixed vertebrae, materials used for the anterior props, etc.) and analysed with multivariate or multiple regression analyses. The bone healing rate and incidence of postoperative back pain were compared among the three groups (maxVB = 0, 2$$\leqq$$maxVB$$\leqq$$8, maxVB ≧ 9) and divided by the maxVB after adjusting for confounding factors.

Results

Patients with a maxVB ≥ 2 had a significantly higher bone fusion rate (p < 0.01) and postoperative back pain score (p < 0.01) than those with a maxVB = 0. Among the three groups, the bone fusion rate and back pain score were significantly higher in the 2$$\leqq$$maxVB$$\leqq$$8 group (p = 0.01, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Examination of the maxVB as an indicator of the use of a lever arm is beneficial for anterior column reconstruction for vertebral fractures. Patients with no intervertebral bone bridging or a high number of bone bridges are in more need of measures to promote bone fusion than patients with a moderate number of bone bridges are.