bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative computed tomography angiography evaluation of the coronary fractional flow reserve in patients with left anterior descending artery myocardial bridging
Authors: Zhang Dan , Tian Xin , Li Meng‐Ya , Zheng Wen‐Song , Yu Yang , Zhang Hao‐Wen , Pan Tong , Gao Bu‐Lang , Li Cai‐Ying
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To quantitatively investigate the effect of myocardial bridge (MB) in the left anterior descending artery (LAD) on the fractional flow reserve (FFR).

Materials and Methods

Three‐hundred patients with LAD MB who had undergone coronary artery CT angiography (CCTA) were retrospectively enroled, and 104 normal patients were enroled as the control. The CCTA‐derived fractional flow reserve (FFRCT) was measured at the LAD 10 mm proximal (FFR1) and 20–40 mm distal (FFR3) to the MB and at the MB location (FFR2).

Results

FFR2 and FFR3 of the MB (with BM only) and MBLA (with both MB and atherosclerosis) groups were significantly (p < 0.01) lower than those of the control. The FFR3 distal to the MB was significantly lower (p < 0.01) than that of the control. The FFRCT of the whole LAD in the MBLA group was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that of the MB and control group (p < 0.05). MB length (OR 1.061) and MB muscle index (odds ratio or OR 1.007) were two risk factors for abnormal FFRCT, and MB length was a significant independent risk factor for abnormal FFRCT (OR = 1.077). LAD stenosis degree was a risk factor for abnormal FFRCT values (OR 3.301, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.441–7.562, p = 0.005) and was also a significant independent risk factor (OR = 3.369, 95% CI: 1.392–8.152; p = 0.007) for abnormal FFRCT.

Conclusion

MB significantly affects the FFRCT of distal coronary artery. For patients with MB without atherosclerosis, the MB length is a risk factor significantly affecting FFRCT, and for patients with MB accompanied by atherosclerosis, LAD stenotic severity is an independent risk factor for FFRCT.
Feeding‐structure morphogenesis in “rhabditid” and diplogastrid nematodes is not controlled by a conserved genetic module
Authors: Theska Tobias , Sommer Ralf J.
Published: February 2024

Disentangling the evolution of the molecular processes and genetic networks that facilitate the emergence of morphological novelties is one of the main objectives in evolutionary developmental biology. Here, we investigated the evolutionary history of a gene regulatory network controlling the development of novel tooth‐like feeding structures in diplogastrid nematodes. Focusing on NHR‐1 and NHR‐40, the two transcription factors that regulate the morphogenesis of these feeding structures in Pristionchus pacificus, we sought to determine whether they have a similar function in Caenorhabditis elegans, an outgroup species to the Diplogastridae which has typical “rhabditid” flaps instead of teeth. Contrary to our initial expectations, we found that they do not have a similar function. While both receptors are co‐expressed in the tissues that produce the feeding structures in the two nematodes, genetic inactivation of either receptor had no impact on feeding‐structure morphogenesis in C. elegans. Transcriptomic experiments revealed that NHR‐1 and NHR‐40 have highly species‐specific regulatory targets. These results suggest two possible evolutionary scenarios: either the genetic module responsible for feeding‐structure morphogenesis in Diplogastridae already existed in the last common ancestor of C. elegans and P. pacificus, and subsequently disintegrated in the former as NHR‐1 and NHR‐40 acquired new targets, or it evolved in conjunction with teeth in Diplogastridae. These findings indicate that feeding‐structure morphogenesis is regulated by different genetic programs in P. pacificus and C. elegans, hinting at developmental systems drift during the flap‐to‐tooth transformation. Further research in other “rhabditid” species is needed to fully reconstruct the developmental genetic changes which facilitated the evolution of novel feeding structures in Diplogastridae.
Structural barriers to help‐seeking in first‐episode psychosis: A systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Causier Chiara , Waite Felicity , Sivarajah Nithura , Knight Matthew T. D.
Published: February 2024

Aim

Access to timely treatment is key to early intervention in psychosis. Despite this, barriers to treatment exist. In this review, we aimed to understand the structural barriers that patients and caregivers face in help‐seeking for first‐episode psychosis, and the recommendations provided to address these.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42021274609) of qualitative studies reporting structural barriers to help‐seeking from the patient or caregiver perspective. Searches were performed in September 2023, restricted to studies published from 2001. Study quality was appraised using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Data were analysed using thematic synthesis.

Results

Nineteen papers from 11 countries were included. Across all papers, participants reported experiencing structural barriers to receiving healthcare. For many patients and caregivers, the process of accessing healthcare is complex. Access requires knowledge and resources from parents, caregivers and healthcare providers, yet too often there is a misalignment between patients' needs and service resources. Expertise amongst healthcare providers vary and some patients and caregivers experience negative encounters in healthcare. Patients highlighted earlier caregiver involvement and greater peer support as potential routes for improvement.

Conclusion

Patients and caregivers face multiple structural barriers, with legislative practices that discourage family involvement, and healthcare and transport costs found to be particularly problematic. Understanding these barriers can facilitate the co‐design of both new and existing services to provide easier access for patients and caregivers. Further research is needed focusing not only on the perspectives of patients and caregivers who have accessed professional help but also crucially on those who have not.
Which clinical factors delay proper treatment in panic disorder? A cross‐sectional multicentric study
Authors: Surace T. , Buoli M. , Affaticati L. M. , Esposito G. , Capuzzi E. , Colzani L. , La Tegola D. , Biagi E. , Colmegna F. , Caldiroli A. , Clerici M.
Published: February 2024

Aim

The aim of the present study was to identify clinical and socio‐demographic factors associated with duration of untreated illness (DUI) in patients affected by panic disorder (PD).

Methods

Data were collected from patients' medical records (N = 157) of two mental health services respectively located in Milan and in Monza (Italy). Correlation analyses and analysis of variance (ANOVAs) were run to analyse the relation between DUI and quantitative/qualitative variables respectively. Statistically significant variables in uni‐ variate analyses were then inserted in a linear multivariable regression model (backward procedure).

Results

Mean DUI was 27.33 (±50.56) months. Patients with an earlier age at onset (r = −0.270; p < .01), a longer duration of illness (r = 0.483; p < .01) and who received a lifetime psychotherapy (F = 6.86; p = .01) had a longer DUI. The final global model showed that a longer DUI was associated with pre‐onset poly‐substance misuse (p = .05) and a longer duration of illness (p < .01).

Conclusion

The results of our study showed that a longer DUI was predicted by clinical factors such as the presence of a pre‐onset poly‐substance use disorder and that delayed proper treatment can lead to a chronicization of PD, as indicated by a longer duration of illness. Further studies are needed to in‐depth investigate the role of DUI in influencing the course and outcome of anxiety disorders, including PD.
Young people's pathways to a specialist suicide prevention service and the influence of caregiver prior suicidality and mental health treatment
Authors: Onay Zozan , Sidis Anna , Robinson Laura , Deane Frank P.
Published: February 2024

Aim

Timely help‐seeking and pathways to care (PtC) have been linked to positive outcomes in suicidal adolescents. While the importance of formal contacts is recognized, caregivers also play a significant role in these pathways. Caregiver's familiarity with mental health issues may influence an adolescent's PtC. This study explores the relationship between a caregiver's prior suicidality and mental health treatment on their children's pathways to entering a specialist suicide prevention treatment program.

Method

Caregivers (n = 118, 35 males and 83 females) of young individuals (12–25 years) who were admitted into an outpatient suicide prevention service, completed a self‐report questionnaire describing their child's onset of symptoms, help‐seeking, PtC and the caregiver's prior suicidality and mental health treatment.

Results

Parents were the source most likely to recognize the onset of suicidality, with general practitioners and psychologists the most common first contacts. Significant delays were identified for onset duration averaging 48.0 weeks, and it was observed that shorter delays in treatment were related to fewer number of contacts. Caregiver prior suicidality was associated with longer delays in treatment but had no relationship with onset duration.

Conclusion

Caregivers and professional contacts are vital agents in improving the PtC of suicidal adolescents. Results highlight the significant delays in treatment and the added complexity of a caregiver's prior experience of suicidality to these pathways. These complexities warrant further exploration to minimize obstacles that hinder help‐seeking and lengthen PtC, as this may improve interventions and outcomes for suicidal adolescents and their caregivers.
Sex‐specific oviposition site selection in an arboreal treefrog with a resource‐defense mating system
Authors: Poo Sinlan , Cheng Yuan‐Cheng , Fuh Nien‐Tse , Chuang Ming‐Feng , Kam Yeong‐Choy
Published: February 2024

Oviposition site selection by parents is an important factor that affects offspring survival and parental fitness. The relative importance of sexes in oviposition site selection in anurans is rarely evaluated, especially in species with resource‐defense mating systems, where males defend territory containing eventual oviposition sites before advertising for females. Using a phytotelm‐breeding frog (Kurixalus eiffingeri) with male territoriality, we examined 310 bamboo stumps (potential for oviposition sites) to determine whether male and female choice of oviposition site based on physical characteristics (stump height, inner diameter, stump depth, water depth, and water volume). We found that males preferred a site with higher stumps that were deeper and contained more water, while females showed no preference for sites based on the characteristics observed. Although we do not exclude the possibility that K. eiffingeri female oviposition site selection can be relied on and/or correlates to male advertisement calls, this study is one of few studies to examine the role of both sexes in oviposition site selection simultaneously, and provides empirical evidence that oviposition site selection is primarily determined by males in an amphibian with a resource‐defense mating system.
Genomic prediction based on preselected single‐nucleotide polymorphisms from genome‐wide association study and imputed whole‐genome sequence data annotation for growth traits in Duroc pigs
Authors: Zhang Yuling , Zhuang Zhanwei , Liu Yiyi , Huang Jinyan , Luan Menghao , Zhao Xiang , Dong Linsong , Ye Jian , Yang Ming , Zheng Enqin , Cai Gengyuan , Wu Zhenfang , Yang Jie
Published: February 2024

The use of whole‐genome sequence (WGS) data is expected to improve genomic prediction (GP) power of complex traits because it may contain mutations that in strong linkage disequilibrium pattern with causal mutations. However, a few previous studies have shown no or small improvement in prediction accuracy using WGS data. Incorporating prior biological information into GP seems to be an attractive strategy that might improve prediction accuracy. In this study, a total of 6334 pigs were genotyped using 50K chips and subsequently imputed to the WGS level. This cohort includes two prior discovery populations that comprise 294 Landrace pigs and 186 Duroc pigs, as well as two validation populations that consist of 3770 American Duroc pigs and 2084 Canadian Duroc pigs. Then we used annotation information and genome‐wide association study (GWAS) from the WGS data to make GP for six growth traits in two Duroc pig populations. Based on variant annotation, we partitioned different genomic classes, such as intron, intergenic, and untranslated regions, for imputed WGS data. Based on GWAS results of WGS data, we obtained trait‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We then applied the genomic feature best linear unbiased prediction (GFBLUP) and genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) models to estimate the genomic estimated breeding values for growth traits with these different variant panels, including six genomic classes and trait‐associated SNPs. Compared with 50K chip data, GBLUP with imputed WGS data had no increase in prediction accuracy. Using only annotations resulted in no increase in prediction accuracy compared to GBLUP with 50K, but adding annotation information into the GFBLUP model with imputed WGS data could improve the prediction accuracy with increases of 0.00%–2.82%. In conclusion, a GFBLUP model that incorporated prior biological information might increase the advantage of using imputed WGS data for GP.
Repeatability of ultrasonographic measurement of cross‐sectional area of the multifidus muscle in the horse
Authors: Symonds Nicolle E. , Dart Andrew J. , Perkins Nigel R. , Burns Gillian , Young Alex C. , Bell Robin J. W. , Jeffcott Leo B.
Published: February 2024

Background

Recent studies have described techniques to acquire ultrasound measurements of the cross‐sectional area of the multifidus muscle to investigate back pain in horses and monitor the response to rehabilitation. These techniques have been extrapolated from human research but have not been clinically validated in the horse.

Objective

The objective of the study was to investigate whether measuring the cross‐sectional area of the multifidus muscle in horses using ultrasound is a repeatable technique.

Study design

Cross‐sectional.

Methods

Ultrasound images of the articular process view and interspinous view of the multifidus muscle were acquired at T15, T18, L2 and L5 on the left and right sides. Three images were acquired at each location and each image was measured three times to give an average cross‐sectional area. Study 1 investigated the repeatability of acquiring images in a single session, and then on two separate days. Study 2 compared measurements of images acquired with a console (Philips EpiQ) and a portable (MyLab™Alpha) ultrasound machine. Study 3 investigated the repeatability of measuring the cross‐sectional area using external software, OsiriX. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated for each study.

Results

Repeatability varied from good to excellent for images taken in a single session. The repeatability for measuring the images using external software was good to excellent. There was poor‐to‐moderate repeatability for images taken on two different days and poor‐to‐good repeatability when using the two different machines.

Main limitations

Population size, study population limited to a single breed, only one operator.

Conclusions

The measurement of the multifidus muscle in horses has poor repeatability and may have limited application.
Elastin microfibril interface‐located protein 1 in fibroblasts is regulated by amphiregulin and interleukin‐1α produced by keratinocytes
Authors: Kondo Shinya , Shiga Soichiro , Sakurai Tetsuhito
Published: February 2024

Objective

The structure of elastic fibres changes with ageing. Elastin microfibril interface–located protein 1 (EMILIN‐1) is known to contribute to structural changes in elastic fibres. EMILIN‐1 is one of the components of elastic fibres and also colocalizes with oxytalan fibres near the epidermis. Therefore, EMILIN‐1 may be affected by epidermal–dermal interactions. The purpose of this study is to identify the key factors involved in epidermal–dermal interactions during the structural degeneration of elastic fibres.

Methods

Keratinocytes and fibroblasts were co‐cultured, and changes in elastic fibre‐related proteins were evaluated. Additionally, cytokine arrays were used to identify the factors involved in epidermal–dermal interactions.

Results

EMILIN‐1 expression in fibroblasts was increased in the presence of keratinocytes, and its expression decreased when keratinocytes were stressed. Amphiregulin (AREG) and interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α) were identified as the keratinocyte‐derived cytokines that influence the production of EMILIN‐1, which is secreted by the fibroblasts. EMILIN‐1 expression was promoted by AREG and decreased by IL‐1α via an increase in cathepsin K (a catabolic enzyme). AREG and IL‐1α were associated with changes in EMILIN‐1 levels in fibroblasts.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the suppression of IL‐1α expression and promotion of AREG expression in the epidermis could be a new approach that prevents the wrinkles and sagging caused by the structural changes in elastic fibres.
FINANCIAL DOLLARIZATION IN EMERGING MARKETS: AN INSURANCE ARRANGEMENT
Authors: Dalgic Husnu C.
Published: February 2024

Households in emerging markets hold significant amounts of dollar deposits whereas firms have significant amount of dollar debt. Motivated by perceived dangers, policymakers consider regulations to limit dollarization. I draw attention to an important benefit of dollarization: it serves as an insurance arrangement in which firms provide income insurance. Emerging market exchange rates tend to depreciate in recessions so that households prefer holding deposits denominated in dollars. They effectively starve local financial markets of local currency; raising local interest rates over USD rates and causing entrepreneurs to borrow in dollars. This premium is the price paid by households for insurance.
Effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the flavour profile of sweet fermented glutinous rice (Jiu Niang)
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhao Yue Tong , Wei Bo Cheng
Published: February 2024

Recently, there has been growing interest in intentionally incorporating fermentation starters into the traditional brewing process. Our study examined the impact of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus rhamnosus on the flavour profiles of sweet fermented glutinous rice (SFGR). Saccharomyces cerevisiae obviously increased the ethanol content, whereas Lactobacillus rhamnosus notably raised the total acidity. Lactic acid became the dominant organic acid after the addition of Lactobacillus rhamnosus. The volatiles were analysed using electronic nose (E‐nose) and gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry (GC‐IMS). S4 sensor of E‐nose exhibited the most extensive response to all samples. Saccharomyces cerevisiae increased ethanol and 3‐methylbutan‐1‐ol levels, while Lactobacillus rhamnosus led to a significant increase in acetone. Principal component analysis effectively discriminated the aroma of SFGR with different starters. Additionally, a strong correlation was observed between the E‐nose and GC‐IMS results. Our study shows that Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus rhamnosus can enhance the flavour of fermented rice products.
Does radical cystectomy have a better prognosis than bladder conservative treatment in the real world?
Authors: Nakagawa Ryunosuke , Izumi Kouji , Toriumi Ren , Aoyama Shuhei , Kamijima Taiki , Makino Tomoyuki , Naito Renato , Iwamoto Hiroaki , Yaegashi Hiroshi , Kawaguchi Shohei , Shigehara Kazuyoshi , Nohara Takahiro , Mizokami Atsushi
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To compare the prognosis and quality of life between radical cystectomy and bladder conservative treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer in the real world.

Materials and Methods

Patients treated for muscle invasive bladder cancer without metastases were retrospectively evaluated for overall survival, progression‐free survival, and rehospitalization.

Results

Of the 141 patients, 62 underwent bladder conservative treatment and 79 underwent radical cystectomy. Patients who underwent radical cystectomy had significantly better progression‐free survival (HR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.12–3.00; p < 0.01) and overall survival (HR: 1.82, 95% CI: 0.99–3.34; p = 0.03) than those who underwent conservative treatment. However, there was no significant difference in prognosis between patients who refused to undergo radical cystectomy and those who underwent. In addition, rehospitalization rates for complications and additional treatment were significantly higher in patients who received conservative treatment (69.3% vs. 34.2%; p < 0.01), and the length of hospital stay was also prolonged compared to patients who received radical cystectomy (26 vs. 9 days; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Overall, conservative treatment had a significantly poorer prognosis than radical cystectomy, but there was no significant difference in prognosis when comparing patients who refused radical cystectomy and received conservative treatment with those who received radical cystectomy. However, hospitalization rates and length of stay were significantly worse for patients who chose conservative treatment, which may lead to a decline in quality of life.
Association between venous leg ulcers and chronic heart failure: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ke Changlan , Zhou Qiong , Lu Mei , Xie Ruiye , Kong Wanwen
Published: February 2024

An association between venous leg ulcers (VLU) and chronic heart failure (CHF) has been suggested by observational research. This study used Mendelian randomization (MR) methods to look into any possible bidirectional causal links between VLU and CHF. The ‘TwoSampleMR’ R package was employed for MR analyses. The association of VLU and CHF was assessed via methods of inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted mode, MR Egger and weighted median. Results of IVW suggested no association between VLU and CHF (β 0.008356; SE 0.01889; p = 0.6582). The weighted median estimator (β −0.005777; SE 0.02059, p = 0.7791), MR‐Egger (β −0.08955; SE 0.04557; p = 0.07296) and weighted mode (β −0.01202; SE 0.02467; p = 0.6341) showed consistent results. Conversely, evidence indicating that the presence of CHF increased the risk of VLU was lacking. In conclusion, there is no bidirectional causal relationship between VLU and CHF. Further studies are required to validate the findings of this study.
Multiple processes jointly determine ecological uniqueness across forest plant life‐forms in Northeast China
Authors: Chen Yue , Myers Jonathan A. , Ordonez Alejandro , Yu Jinghua , Ye Ji , Lin Fei , Fang Shuai , Mao Zikun , Wang Xugao
Published: February 2024

Aim

Ecological uniqueness is an essential component of biodiversity. However, the mechanisms underlying patterns of ecological uniqueness remain unresolved. This study aims to assess the relative importance as well as interactive roles of four hypothesized processes (regional climate filtering, local environmental filtering, biotic heterogeneity and disturbance intensity [DI]) in shaping ecological uniqueness across three forest plant life‐forms (trees, shrubs and herbs) in a large temperate forest region.

Location

Northeast China.

Methods

We quantified ecological uniqueness as abundance and incidence‐based local relative contributions to beta diversity (i.e. LCBD indices) in the study region. Multiple beta regression analyses and piecewise structural equation models were used to determine the relative direct and interactive effects of four processes in shaping ecological uniqueness across forest plant life‐forms.

Results

The southern area of the region exhibited consistently greater LCBD values across plant life‐forms, highlighting its importance for conservation. All four processes jointly affected ecological uniqueness but their relative importance varied across plant life‐forms. Generally, regional climate had the dominant effect on tree LCBD while biotic heterogeneity was the most important process driving shrub and herb LCBDs. Local environmental filtering was less important in driving LCBD of all life‐forms. The significant direct effect of DI was only found in the herb group. Despite its weak direct effect, DI could indirectly shape tree and shrub LCBDs via biotic heterogeneity.

Main Conclusions

Our study suggests that current patterns of ecological uniqueness (i.e. LCBD) across forest plant life‐forms result from multiple processes, with regional climate filtering and biotic heterogeneity having the strongest effects on uniqueness patterns across all life‐forms. Meanwhile, DI is more critical for shaping ecological uniqueness of herbs than trees or shrubs. We highlight the interactive roles of biotic and abiotic filtering in shaping biologically distinct communities important for biodiversity conservation.
Dutasteride in the treatment of frontal fibrosing alopecia: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Seo Hyun‐Min , Oh Se Uk , Kim Sungyu , Park Ji Hun , Kim Joung Soo
Published: February 2024

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a scarring alopecia with fronto‐temporo‐parietal hairline recession. Although no proven treatment for FFA exists, dutasteride has been suggested as a potential treatment option. We aimed to evaluate the therapeutic response of oral dutasteride in FFA patients. The identification and selection of studies were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis 2020 criteria. To assess the risk of bias for each study, we used the Cochrane's risk of bias in non‐randomized studies of interventions (ROBINS‐I) assessment tool. A random effects model meta‐analysis was performed. Estimated proportion of stabilization for eligible studies was calculated to evaluate the effectiveness of dutasteride for treating FFA. Among patients who achieved stabilization, subgroup analysis was conducted on those showing improvement. Seven studies including 366 patients who received oral dutasteride were identified. The estimated proportion of patients who experienced stabilization of FFA with oral dutasteride was 0.628 (95% CI: 0.398–0.859). In subgroup analyses of patients who experienced improvement, the estimated proportion of improvement was 0.356 (95% CI: 0.163–0.549). In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, oral dutasteride revealed to be a good treatment option for disease stabilization or improvement in patients with FFA.
Identifying the Depreciation Rate of Durables from Marginal Spending Responses
Authors: CAO JIN , CUI CHAO , DINGER VALERIYA , HOLM MARTIN B. , KANG SHULONG
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a new method to estimate the depreciation rate of durable goods using a combination of identified marginal and average spending shares. We apply our method to Chinese spending responses to disposable income changes induced by monetary policy in 2008–09. The marginal total spending response is 0.40. About 46% of this marginal spending response is due to durable goods. By combining this marginal spending share on durables with an average spending share of 14%, we estimate the annual depreciation rate of durables in China to be 0.17.
The role, safety, and efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in aesthetic practice—An evidence‐based review
Authors: Parnis Juanita , Magrin Anna Maria Fenech , Hassan Haidar
Published: February 2024

Background

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves patients breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, above 1 atmosphere. Many centers are now promoting the use of HBOT for skin rejuvenation. However, the current indications for HBOT do not encompass aesthetic applications.

Aim

The aim of this evidence‐based review was to assess the existing literature regarding the utilization of HBOT in medical aesthetics and rejuvenation, evaluate its effectiveness and safety, and conduct a cost analysis.

Materials and Methods

PubMed Interface, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and Embase searches were carried out. The Best Bets methodology was used, and the risk of bias was appraised using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies.

Results and Main Findings

This review included a total of 17 human studies with a total of 766 participants. Three studies were classified as level II evidence, three studies were of level III evidence, and 11 were of level IV evidence. All the included studies were judged at high risk of bias. The most relevant findings supported by level II evidence were that HBOT decreased the shedding rate post‐FUE hair transplant (27.6 ± 2.6% vs. 69.1 ± 2.4%) but this did not affect the final outcome between HBOT (96.9 ± 0.5%) and the control (93.8 ± 0.6%). Moreover, level III evidence demonstrated that following HBOT, there was a significant increase in elastic fiber length (p ≤ 0.0001, effect size = 2.71) and a significant decrease in fiber fragmentation (p = 0.012). There was also a significant increase in collagen fiber density following HBOT (p = 0.0001, effect size = 1.10). However, there was no significant effect of antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E with HBOT. The inflammatory response significantly decreased after 7 days of HBOT with a decreased expression of IL‐12p40, MIP‐1β, and PDGF‐BB and a higher expression of IL‐1Ra. Moreover, HBOT was used prophylactically prior to abdominoplasty to decrease the risk of complications. In this study, complications were decreased from 32.6% (89 patients) to 8.4% (7 patients) with a p < 0.001, and in a multivariate analysis, preoperative HBOT was an independent protective factor against postoperative complications (p < 0.001).

Conclusion and Recommendations

There is conflicting evidence on how the method of action of HBOT can have a beneficiary effect in aesthetic and whether the treatment is justifiable. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review discussing the available evidence regarding the use of HBOT in many aesthetic clinical scenarios, including preventive, medical, and surgical settings. However, randomized clinical trials with longer follow‐up and better patient selection are needed to be able to generate a reliable conclusion.
Machine learning decision support model for discharge planning in stroke patients
Authors: Cui Yanli , Xiang Lijun , Zhao Peng , Chen Jian , Cheng Lei , Liao Lin , Yan Mingyu , Zhang Xiaomei
Published: February 2024

Background/aim

Efficient discharge for stroke patients is crucial but challenging. The study aimed to develop early predictive models to explore which patient characteristics and variables significantly influence the discharge planning of patients, based on the data available within 24 h of admission.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Methods

A prospective cohort was conducted at a university hospital with 523 patients hospitalised for stroke. We built and trained six different machine learning (ML) models, followed by testing and tuning those models to find the best‐suited predictor for discharge disposition, dichotomized into home and non‐home. To evaluate the accuracy, reliability and interpretability of the best‐performing models, we identified and analysed the features that had the greatest impact on the predictions.

Results

In total, 523 patients met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 61 years. Of the patients with stroke, 30.01% had non‐home discharge. Our model predicting non‐home discharge achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.95 and a precision of 0.776. After threshold was moved, the model had a recall of 0.809. Top 10 variables by importance were National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, family income, Barthel index (BI) score, FRAIL score, fall risk, pressure injury risk, feeding method, depression, age and dysphagia.

Conclusion

The ML model identified higher NIHSS, BI, and FRAIL, family income, higher fall risk, pressure injury risk, older age, tube feeding, depression and dysphagia as the top 10 strongest risk predictors in identifying patients who required non‐home discharge to higher levels of care. Modern ML techniques can support timely and appropriate clinical decision‐making.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study illustrates the characteristics and risk factors of non‐home discharge in patients with stroke, potentially contributing to the improvement of the discharge process.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.
The effect of interleukin‐20 on periodontal tissue destruction in individuals with periodontitis
Authors: Yemenoglu H. , Senkal R. , Kose O. , Yılmaz A. , Mataracı Karakaş S. , Akyıldız K.
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that destroys periodontal tissues. Interleukin‐20 (IL‐20), on the other hand, is known as a potent angiogenic, chemotactic, and pro‐inflammatory cytokine associated with various chronic inflammatory disorders. IL‐20 has a significant role in the regulation of osteoclastogenesis and osteoblastogenesis. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of IL‐20 on periodontal destruction.

Methods

In this study, a total of 60 participants were included, 30 of whom were systemically and periodontally healthy (control group), and 30 were systemically healthy but had periodontitis (periodontitis group). Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and serum samples were collected from the participants for biochemical analysis. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the levels of IL‐20, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, IL1β/IL‐10, RANKL/osteoprotegerin (OPG), and matrix metalloproteinase‐8 (MMP8). For statistical analysis, the independent t‐test, Pearson correlation coefficients, and the Chi‐square test were used.

Results

GCF IL‐20, RANKL, RANKL/OPG, serum IL‐20, RANKL, RANKL/OPG, MMP‐8, TNF‐α, IL‐1B, and IL‐1β/IL‐10 values were found to be statistically significantly higher in the periodontitis group than in the control group. GCF OPG and serum IL‐10 values were found to be statistically significantly higher in the control group than in the periodontitis group. No statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in serum OPG values. A statistically significantly positive correlation was observed between serum IL‐20 value and serum RANKL, RANKL/OPG, MMP‐8, TNF‐α, IL‐1β values, and periodontal clinical parameters. The ROC curves showed: AUC = 0.788 for GCF IL‐20, and AUC = 1.000 for serum IL‐20.

Conclusion

According to the results of the study, IL‐20 was found to be associated with periodontitis. The role of IL‐20 in periodontal pathogenesis is related to osteoclastogenesis and collagen degradation. It is conceivable that IL‐20 may increase bone destruction by both affecting the RANKL/OPG ratio and proinflammatory cytokines.
The clinical effect of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia in subgroups with depressive and anxiety symptoms: A secondary analysis of a randomized–controlled trial
Authors: Rötger Alexander , Schuffelen Jennifer , Maurer Leonie F. , Lorenz Noah , Pollok Bettina , Gieselmann Annika
Published: February 2024

Insomnia is a highly prevalent mental disorder, and is often co‐occurring with depression and anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia as treatment of choice for insomnia can also be applied digitally (digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia), making it more accessible. This is a secondary data analysis of a two‐armed parallel randomized–controlled trial. In the primary publication, N = 238 participants meeting criteria for the 5th edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders chronic insomnia disorder were randomly assigned to either 8 weeks of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia + treatment‐as‐usual, or waitlist + treatment‐as‐usual. To determine the clinical effects of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia in populations with comorbid anxiety and depression symptoms, this secondary analysis focused on two subgroups: (1) participants with high initial depressive symptoms; and (2) participants with high initial anxiety symptoms. Symptoms of insomnia, depression and anxiety as primary outcome measures were obtained at baseline, 8 weeks post‐randomization and, in the intervention group only, at 6‐ and 12‐months follow‐up. At 8 weeks post‐randomization, the use of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia in both subgroups was associated with large reductions in insomnia severity in comparison to control (depression subgroup: d = 2.37; anxiety subgroup: d = 2.13). Between‐group treatment effects were also observed for symptoms of depression in the depression subgroup (d = 1.59), and for symptoms of anxiety in the anxiety subgroup (d = 1.28). Within‐group effects were stable over time (d = 0.64–1.63). This secondary analysis shows that digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia reduces insomnia and comorbid symptoms in participants with high initial symptoms of either depression or anxiety with sustained long‐term effects.
Diversity Dynamics: How Local Religious Groups Appear, Persist, or Disappear over Time
Authors: Senn Jeremy , Stolz Jörg , Monnot Christophe
Published: February 2024

Religious diversity is often described and measured statically. This article goes a step further by describing how congregational religious diversity changes over time, and by exposing the mechanisms underlying these changes. We combine data from two censuses (from 2008 and 2020) of congregations in Switzerland with a sample‐based national congregation study conducted in 2008. Our main findings are the following: (1) overall, the number of congregations is in decline. (2) Religious diversity remains stable, but underlying features of religious diversity change radically. For example, established Christian congregations almost only disappear while Orthodox Christians see almost only new congregations. (3) Rural areas lose congregations mainly because established Christian groups merge their parishes, while urban areas have a high turnover. (4) Some congregational characteristics such as religious tradition, number of participants or presence of a meeting space significantly predict a congregation's likelihood of disappearing, in contrast to other variables, including income.
Evaluation of risk factors for sleep‐disordered breathing in dogs
Authors: Niinikoski Iida , Himanen Sari‐Leena , Tenhunen Mirja , Aromaa Mimma , Lilja‐Maula Liisa , Rajamäki Minna M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Brachycephalic dogs display sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB). The risk factors for SDB remain unknown.

Objectives

To identify risk factors for SDB. We hypothesized that brachycephaly, increasing severity of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), excess weight, and aging predispose to SDB.

Animals

Sixty‐three privately owned pet dogs were prospectively recruited: 28 brachycephalic and 35 normocephalic (mesaticephalic or dolicocephalic) dogs.

Methods

Prospective observational cross‐sectional study with convenience sampling. Recording with the neckband was done over 1 night at each dog's home. The primary outcome measure was the obstructive respiratory event index (OREI). Body condition score (BCS) was assessed, and BOAS severity was graded for brachycephalic dogs.

Results

Brachycephaly was a significant risk factor for high OREI value (ratio of the geometric means 5.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.2‐9.9; P < .001) but aging was not (1.1, 95% CI 1.0‐1.2; P = .2). Excess weight, defined as a BCS of over 5/9, (3.5, 95% CI 1.8‐6.7; P < .001) was a significant risk factor. In brachycephalic dogs, BOAS‐positive class (moderate or severe BOAS signs) was a significant risk factor (2.5, 95% CI 1.1‐5.6; P = .03).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Brachycephaly decreases welfare in a multitude of ways, including disrupting sleep. Brachycephaly, increasing severity of BOAS and excess weight are risk factors for obstructive SDB.
Aftershock probabilistic seismic hazard analysis based on enhanced Bayesian network considering frequency information
Authors: Liu Chang , Lu Dagang
Published: February 2024

Bayesian network (BN) is an important tool in probabilistic seismic risk analysis (PSRA) due to its holistic nature and powerful probabilistic inference capabilities. However, while the information that can be stored by BN includes variable values, probability distributions, and relationships between variables, it does not involve event quantities. The results obtained from PSRA and probabilistic seismic hazard analysis (PSHA) are commonly frequency‐related (the number of occurrences per unit time), fundamentally describing event numbers. BN assumes a fixed event number relationship between nodes, but the aftershock counts vary for different mainshock magnitudes. This limitation further restricts its effectiveness in lifespan PSRA for structures. Therefore, this study aims to propose an enhanced BN (EBN) for modeling aftershock PSHA (APSHA) considering frequency information. This paper first introduces the modeling method using BN, including PSHA and a simplified model of APSHA using Båth's law. Next, an EBN that can effectively address frequency issues between the mainshock and aftershocks is presented for modeling APSHA considering the modified Omori's law, while the mathematical principles of both forward and backward inferences for the EBN are elaborated in detail. Then, the article carefully analyzes the utilization of the EBN for APSHA modeling under different scenarios where the information regarding the mainshock is known to varying extents, followed by the extension of the EBN in a time domain to obtain time‐dependent aftershock hazard. Finally, an example of APSHA in a specific location in China is illustrated.
Passive acoustic monitoring and visual sighting survey of cetacean occurrence patterns in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Duporge Isla , Lee Robert , Eweida Ameer , Mackelworth Peter , Ten Sofía , Alghamdi Abdulaziz , Alkhamis Razan , Cochran Jesse , Lee Stephen , Klinck Holger
Published: February 2024

The available data on occurrence patterns of cetaceans in the Red Sea area of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very limited. The dearth of information is of pressing conservation concern as the coastline is undergoing rapid development as part of the Kingdom's effort to diversify its national economy. To understand how these developments will impact cetaceans in the region, the first large‐scale acoustic and visual survey in the Kingdom's part of the Gulf of Aqaba and the northeastern Red Sea was undertaken in 2020. The results of the acoustic surveys reveal 3.6 encounters per 100 km of track line of odontocete species with variable distribution across the study area. No baleen whale vocalizations were detected. Through visual surveys, five odontocete species were identified within the study area: Tursiops truncatus, T. aduncus, Stenella attenuata, S. longirostris, and two opportunistic sightings of a single Grampus griseus.
The state of point‐of‐care ultrasound training in pediatric anesthesia fellowship programs in the United States: A survey assessment
Authors: O'Brien Elizabeth M. , Guris Rodrigo Daly , Quarshie William , Lin Elaina E.
Published: February 2024

Background

Point‐of‐care ultrasound is an invaluable bedside tool for anesthesiologists and has been integrated into anesthesiology residency training and board certification in the United States. Little is known about point‐of‐care ultrasound training practices in pediatric anesthesia fellowship programs.

Aims

To describe the current state of point‐of‐care ultrasound education in pediatric anesthesia fellowship programs in the United States.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional survey study distributed to 60 American Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education‐accredited pediatric anesthesia fellowship programs. Two programs were in their initial accreditation period and were excluded due to lack of historical data. Program directors or associate program directors were invited to complete this 23‐item survey.

Results

Thirty‐three of fifty‐eight programs (57%) completed the survey. Of those, 15 programs (45%) reported having a point‐of‐care ultrasound curriculum. Programs with ≤3 fellows per year were less likely to have an ultrasound curriculum compared to programs with ≥4 fellows per year (30% programs 0–3 fellows/year vs. 69% programs ≥4 fellows/year, odds ratio 0.19 [95% confidence intervals 0.04–0.87]; p = .03). Program directors and associate program directors rated point‐of‐care ultrasound training as highly valuable to fellows' education. Barriers to use most commonly included lack of experience (64%), lack of oversight/interpretive guidance (58%), and lack of time (45%). Programs without point‐of‐care ultrasound training had significantly higher odds of listing lack of ultrasound access as a primary barrier (50% programs without vs. 13% programs with, odds ratio 6.5, [95% confidence intervals 1.3–50]; p = .04).

Conclusions

This observational survey‐based study suggests that fewer than half of pediatric anesthesia training programs in the United States offer point‐of‐care ultrasound education. Additional research is needed to optimize this education and training in pediatric anesthesia fellowship programs.
Counterfactual Decision Theory Is Causal Decision Theory
Authors: Gallow J. Dmitri
Published: February 2024

The role of causation and counterfactuals in causal decision theory is vexed and disputed. Recently, Brian Hedden (2023) argues that we should abandon causal decision theory in favour of an alternative: counterfactual decision theory. I argue that, pace Hedden, counterfactual decision theory is not a competitor to, but rather a version of, causal decision theory – the most popular version by far. I provide textual evidence that the founding fathers of causal decision theory (Stalnaker, Gibbard, Harper, Lewis, Skyrms, Sobel, and Joyce) all endorse counterfactual decision theories. I additionally discuss why these theories came to be called ‘causal’, rather than ‘counterfactual’. And I argue that, properly understood, causal decision theory escapes Hedden's objections.
Does insecure attachment lead to psychosis via dissociation? A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Puckett Joseph , Sood Monica , Newman‐Taylor Katherine
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Insecure attachment may constitute a vulnerability factor for psychosis, and dissociation may be a key mechanism in the development of auditory hallucinations specifically. While there is good evidence for the role of these processes in isolation, it is unclear whether dissociation accounts for the association between insecure attachment and psychosis. This systematic review takes a theory‐driven approach to examine proposed causal relationships across the clinical and nonclinical literature.

Methods

We searched five databases (PubMeD, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL and ETHOS) for published and unpublished research examining attachment, dissociation and psychosis. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the quality of all included studies.

Results

We identified 242 potential articles and included 13 in the final review (2096 participants). We found that (1) disorganised attachment was consistently associated with dissociation and inconsistently associated with voices and paranoia, (2) dissociation was associated with voices and paranoia, and these links were stronger in clinical samples, and (3) dissociation played a role in the impact of insecure attachment on voice hearing and paranoia in clinical groups.

Conclusions

This is the first review to synthesise the research examining attachment, dissociation, and psychosis. The evidence is consistent with proposed causal hypotheses and raises conceptual and measurement issues, for example, the need to clarify the relative contributions of different insecure attachment styles, and utilise behavioural/observational measures to strengthen study designs. Most importantly, we need experimental and longitudinal studies to confirm causal links and targets for treatment.