bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Essential Oil and Smoke Components of Artemisia absinthium and Hagenia abyssinica
Authors: Kebie Nigussie , Sisay Melaku Assefa
Published: May 2024

Hagenia abyssinica and Artemisia absinthium are widely distributed tree species in Ethiopia and known for their traditional medicinal uses. The present study was conducted to determine the essential oil and smoke constituents of H. abyssinica and A. absinthium leaves using GC-MS. The main components of the A. absinthium essential oil were valencene (5.48%), bornyl acetate (5.15%), and trans-cinnamic acid (4.34%). 2-Bornanone (18.54%), o-cymene (12.80%), and nerolidol (7.04%) were the dominant components of the MeOH fraction of the smoke derived from the leaves of A. absinthium, while 2-propenoic acid butyl ester (46.49%), heptadecane (10.66%), and 9-octylheptadecane (7.78%) were the major components of the n-hexane fraction. The main components of the H. abyssinica essential oil were cis-davanone (14.73%), Aristolediene (9.31%), and cryptone (6.50%). β-Myrcene (12.59%), neophytadiene (11.54%), and limonene (11.27%) were the dominant components of the MeOH fraction of the smoke derived from the leaves of H. abyssinica. 1,3,5,7-Cyclooctatetraene (33.58%), prehnitene (7.01%), and heptadecane (5.46%) were the dominant components of the n-hexane fraction of the smoke derived from the leaves of H. abyssinica. The smoke components of A. absinthium and H. abyssinica were reported here for the first time.
“Air That Once Was Breath” Part 2: Wildfire Smoke and Airway Disease – “Climate Change, Allergy and Immunology” Special IAAI Article Collection: Collegium Internationale Allergologicum Update 2023
Authors: Bowman Willis S. , Schmidt Rebecca J. , Sanghar Gursharan K. , Thompson III George R. , Ji Hong , Zeki Amir A. , Haczku Angela
Published: May 2024

Background: Population growth and climate change have led to more frequent and larger wildfires, increasing the exposure of individuals to wildfire smoke. Notably, asthma exacerbations and allergic airway sensitization are prominent outcomes of such exposure. Summary: Key research questions relate to determining the precise impact on individuals with asthma, including the severity, duration, and long-term consequences of exacerbations. Identifying specific risk factors contributing to vulnerability, such as age, genetics, comorbidities, or environmental factors, is crucial. Additionally, reliable biomarkers for predicting severe exacerbations need exploration. Understanding the long-term health effects of repeated wildfire smoke exposures in individuals with asthma and addressing healthcare disparities are important research areas. Key Messages: This review discusses the need for comprehensive research efforts to better grasp wildfire smoke-induced respiratory health, particularly in vulnerable populations such as farmworkers, firefighters, pregnant women, children, the elderly, and marginalized communities. Effective mitigation would require addressing the current limitations we face by supporting research aimed at a better understanding of wildfire smoke-induced airway disease.
Recovery, Functional Status, and Health-Related Quality of Life Status up to 4 Years after First-Ever Stroke Onset: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Aked Joseph , Delavaran Hossein , Wennerström Fredrik , Lindgren Arne G.
Published: May 2024

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of acquired disability in adults worldwide, and the burden of stroke is projected to increase. Current long-term stroke outcome data including functional status, activity, and participation limitations as well as information on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are vital for future rehabilitation and resource planning of stroke survivors. Methods: First-ever stroke survivors from a population-based cohort with ischemic stroke or intracerebral hemorrhage were followed up 3–4 years after stroke onset via clinic appointments, home visits, or telephone. Ischemic stroke was stratified by clinical syndrome (Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project classification) and pathogenetic mechanism (TOAST classification). We assessed the participants’ functional status and independence with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel Index (BI) and their HRQoL across several domains (Short Form Questionnaire-36, EuroQoL-5D, and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS)). We used logistic and linear regression analyses to analyze potential baseline predictors of 3–4-year outcome. Results: Four hundred individuals were included; 151 died before clinical follow-up and 47 (12%) were lost to detailed follow-up. Two hundred and two individuals (median age: 72, IQR: 65–79; 40% female) were followed up after a median of 3.2 years (IQR: 3.1–3.5). Nineteen individuals (9%) had a recurrent stroke during the 3–4-year follow-up period. Among the 202 follow-up attendees, 147 (73%) had favorable functional outcome (mRS ≤2) and 134 (69%) of the 195 respondents reported good-excellent HRQoL according to SF-36. Age (HR: 1.03; 95% CI: 1.00–1.05), initial stroke severity (HR: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.10–1.22; p < 0.001), living with in-home care or in care facility at baseline (HR: 8.77; 95% CI: 2.98–25.64), and recurrent stroke (HR: 3.58; 95% CI: 1.47–8.77) were predictors of poor functional outcome (mRS>2). Poor functional outcome/death was less common among IS due to Other Causes and Small Artery Occlusion than other pathogenetic mechanisms (20% and 33% vs. 56–68%; p < 0.01). SIS respondents with poor functional outcomes (n = 32) reported worst outcome in the hand domain of SIS (median: 28/100; IQR: 0–73). Conclusions: Most 3–4-year stroke survivors have favorable functional outcomes and are independent in ADL in a population-based cohort. Despite its relative rarity, recurrent stroke was a predictor of poor functional outcome, emphasizing the need of adequate secondary prevention.
Systematic Brain Natriuretic Peptide Measurement for Cardiac Screening in Patients with Severe Obesity: The OLECOEUR Study
Authors: Carette Claire , Okamba-Belle Diana , Hirlemann Mélanie , Wack Maxime , Domenge Orianne , Jannot Anne-Sophie , Czernichow Sébastien , Rives-Lange Claire , Fayol Antoine , Hulot Jean-Sébastien
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Heart failure (HF) is difficult to diagnose in obese patients because of cardiovascular and pulmonary comorbidities associated with physical deconditioning, all of which lead to dyspnea. Methods: The OLECOEUR study is a prospective screening for HF using systematic brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) measurement in ambulatory patients with obesity from a department of Nutrition (Paris, France). Clinical, biological, and echocardiographic data were extracted from electronic medical records. Results: We included 1,506 patients middle-aged (mean age: 47.2 ± 14.6 years old) with severe obesity (mean body mass index: 40.4 ± 6.6 kg/m2). Patients with BNP ≥35 pg/mL had left heart remodeling including thicker interventricular septum (10.4 ± 2.0 vs. 9.6 ± 1.8 mm; p = 0.0008), higher left ventricular mass (89.9 ± 24.3 vs. 77.2 ± 20.0 g/m2; p = 0.0009), and significant changes in both left and right atria consistent with a higher proportion of prior atrial fibrillation. Markers of right heart remodeling on echocardiography were also significantly higher (pulmonary artery systolic pressure: 33.3 ± 17.3 vs. 24.5 ± 6.3 mm Hg; p = 0.0002). Conclusion: The OLECOEUR study shows left and right subclinical cardiac remodeling in obese patients screened for HF with systematic dosing of BNP with usual cut-off of 35 pg/mL.
Construcción de subjetividades políticas femeninas y feministas
Authors: Cárdenas García Angélica Johanna , Cely Silva Marely Constanza , Osorio Álvarez Blanca Yira
Published: May 2024

En este artículo se muestran los diferentes procesos de construcción de subjetividades políticas, realizados por un grupo de mujeres que integran la organización Red de Mujeres del Magdalena Medio Colombiano, haciendo énfasis en la manera como este proceso potencializa la configuración de una sujeto político femenina y feminista, quien empodera y posiciona en el ámbito público y político, sus diferentes aspiraciones, pensamientos, necesidades, miradas y sentires, a través del emprendimiento de acciones de reivindicación de los derechos humanos de las mujeres y los de sus comunidades.
Sueños, miedos, alegrías, tristezas (SMAT): técnica investigativa-participativa con niñas, niños y adolescentes
Authors: Martínez-Muñoz Marta , Rodríguez-Pascual Iván
Published: May 2024

(analytical)The participation of children in research implies an epistemic change with clear methodological implications. In this text we present a novel tool for research with children and adolescents: the SMAT (Dreams, Fears, Joys and Sorrows). It is a version of the analysis of weaknesses, threats, strengths andopportunities (SWOT) adapted to the experiential and discursive reality of children that has shown its viability in research with children, even during the pandemic context. The text clarifies the methodological logic of the tool, provides keys for its use and presents examples of results obtained in different contexts (originating in participatory research but also showing its usefulness in conventional research designs) that show its versatility and relevance for the study of the discourse of the child population.
Cativo e caraíba: uma negociação cosmopolítica tupinambá
Authors: Cardoso João Marcos
Published: May 2024

Este artículo retoma el episodio del siglo XVI en el que los Tupinambá capturaron al alemán Hans Staden y lo destinaron a la muerte en un ritual antropofágico. Liberado después de nueve meses de cautiverio, Staden regresó a Europa y publicó un relato de su experiencia entre sus captores. Si bien el testimonio de Staden, el único existente, se construye a la luz de una historia cristiana de salvación, intentaré demostrar que el relato revela que el protagonismo efectivo de los hechos fue de los Tupinambá y que las negociaciones entre captores y cautivos tuvieron una dimensión cosmopolítica, cuyos términos fueron determinados por los Tupinambá. Una investigación etnológica de este evento puede contribuir a comprender cómo los Tupí de la costa se relacionaron con los europeos blancos al inicio de la invasión europea de América del Sur.
Cancer Incidence After Diagnosis of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm—Brief Report
Authors: Luo Lingfeng , Haas Allen M. , Bell Caitlin F. , Baylis Richard A. , Adkar Shaunak S. , Fu Changhao , Angelov Ivan , Giordano Sharon H. , Klarin Derek , Leeper Nicholas J. , Nead Kevin T.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Epidemiological and mechanistic data support a potential causal link between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) represent a common form of CVD with at least partially distinct genetic and biologic pathogenesis from other forms of CVD. The risk of cancer and how this risk differs compared with other forms of CVD, is unknown among AAA patients. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the IBM MarketScan Research Database to test whether individuals with AAA have a higher cancer risk independent of traditional shared risk factors.

METHODS:

All individuals ≥18 years of age with ≥36 months of continuous coverage between 2008 and 2020 were enrolled. Those with potential Mendelian etiologies of AAA, aortic aneurysm with nonspecific anatomic location, or a cancer diagnosis before the start of follow-up were excluded. A subgroup analysis was performed of individuals having the Health Risk Assessment records including tobacco use and body mass index. The following groups of individuals were compared: (1) with AAA, (2) with non-AAA CVD, and (3) without any CVD.

RESULTS:

The propensity score–matched cohort included 58 993 individuals with AAA, 117 986 with non-AAA CVD, and 58 993 without CVD. The 5-year cumulative incidence of cancer was 13.1% (12.8%–13.5%) in participants with AAA, 10.1% (9.9%–10.3%) in participants with non-AAA CVD, and 9.6% (9.3%–9.9%) in participants without CVD. Multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models found that patients with AAA exhibited a higher cancer risk than either those with non-AAA CVD (hazard ratio, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.23–1.32];
P
<0.001) or those without CVD (hazard ratio, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.26–1.38];
P
<0.001). Results remained consistent after excluding common smoking-related cancers and when adjusting for tobacco use and body mass index.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with AAA may have a unique risk of cancer requiring further mechanistic study and investigation of the role of enhanced cancer screening.
Emergency Department Referral of Patients With Chest Pain for Noninvasive Cardiac Testing and 2-Year Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Mark Dustin G. , Huang Jie , Ballard Dustin W. , Vinson David R. , Rana Jamal S. , Sax Dana R. , Rauchwerger Adina S. , Reed Mary E. ,   for the Kaiser Permanente CREST Network Investigators
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Noninvasive cardiac testing (NICT) has been associated with decreased long-term risks of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) among emergency department patients at high coronary risk. It is unclear whether this association extends to patients without evidence of myocardial injury on initial ECG and cardiac troponin testing.

METHODS:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted of patients presenting with chest pain between 2013 and 2019 to 21 emergency departments within an integrated health care system in Northern California, excluding patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction or myocardial injury by serum troponin testing. To account for confounding by indication, we grouped patient encounters by the NICT referral rate of the initially assigned emergency physician relative to local peers within discrete time periods. The primary outcome was MACE within 2 years. Secondary outcomes were coronary revascularization and MACE, inclusive of all-cause mortality. Associations between the NICT referral group (low, intermediate, or high) and outcomes were assessed using risk-adjusted proportional hazards methods with censoring for competing events.

RESULTS:

Among 144 577 eligible patient encounters, the median age was 58 years (interquartile range, 48–68) and 57% were female. Thirty-day NICT referral was 13.0%, 19.9%, and 27.8% in low, intermediate, and high NICT referral groups, respectively, with a good balance of baseline covariates between groups. Compared with the low NICT referral group, there was no significant decrease in the adjusted hazard ratio of MACE within the intermediate (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.02–1.14]) or high (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.05 [95% CI, 0.99–1.11]) NICT referral groups. Results were similar for MACE, inclusive of all-cause mortality, and coronary revascularization, as well as subgroup analyses stratified by estimated risk (history, electrocardiogram, age, risk factors, troponin [HEART] score: percent classified as low risk, 48.2%; moderate risk, 49.2%; and high risk, 2.7%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Increases in NICT referrals were not associated with changes in the hazard of MACE within 2 years following emergency department visits for chest pain without evidence of acute myocardial injury. These findings further highlight the need for evidence-based guidance regarding the appropriate use of NICT in this population.
HIV-Associated Cardiovascular Disease Pathogenesis: An Emerging Understanding Through Imaging and Immunology
Authors: Hudson Jonathan A. , Ferrand Rashida A. , Gitau Samuel N. , Mureithi Marianne Wanjiru , Maffia Pasquale , Alam Shirjel R. , Shah Anoop S.V.
Published: May 2024

Cardiac abnormalities were identified early in the epidemic of AIDS, predating the isolation and characterization of the etiologic agent, HIV. Several decades later, the causation and pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease (CVD) linked to HIV infection continue to be the focus of intense speculation. Before the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy, HIV-associated CVD was primarily characterized by HIV-associated cardiomyopathy linked to profound immunodeficiency. With increasing antiretroviral therapy use, viral load suppression, and establishment of immune competency, the effects of HIV on the cardiovascular system are more subtle. Yet, people living with HIV still face an increased incidence of cardiovascular pathology. Advances in cardiac imaging modalities and immunology have deepened our understanding of the pathogenesis of HIV-associated CVD. This review provides an overview of the pathogenesis of HIV-associated CVD integrating data from imaging and immunologic studies with particular relevance to the HIV population originating from high-endemic regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa. The review highlights key evidence gaps in the field and suggests future directions for research to better understand the complex HIV-CVD interactions.
Bidirectional Association Between Atrial Fibrillation and Myocardial Infarction, and Relation to Mortality in the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Frederiksen Tanja Charlotte , Benjamin Emelia J. , Trinquart Ludovic , Lin Honghuang , Dahm Christina C. , Christiansen Morten Krogh , Jensen Henrik Kjærulf , Preis Sarah R. , Kornej Jelena
Published: May 2024

Background

Individuals with both atrial fibrillation (AF) and myocardial infarction (MI) have higher mortality compared with individuals with only 1 condition. Whether mortality differs according to the temporal order of AF and MI is unclear.

Methods and Results

We included participants from the FHS (Framingham Heart Study) from 1960 and onwards. We assessed the hazard ratio (HR) of new‐onset AF and MI, and mortality according to MI and AF status (prevalent and interim) using multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. Interim diseases were modeled as time‐varying variables. For the analysis of new‐onset AF, 10 923 participants (55% women; mean±SD age, 54±8 years) were included. For new‐onset MI, 10 804 participants (55% women; mean±SD age, 54±8 years) were included. Compared with no MI, the hazard of new‐onset AF was higher in participants with prevalent (HR, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.32–1.94]) and interim MI (HR, 3.96 [95% CI, 3.18–4.91]). Both ST‐segment–elevation MI and non–ST‐segment–elevation MI were associated with new‐onset AF. Interim AF, not prevalent AF, was associated with higher hazard rate of new‐onset MI (HR, 2.21 [95% CI, 1.67–2.92]). Interim AF was associated with both ST‐segment–elevation MI and non–ST‐segment–elevation MI. Mortality was significantly greater among participants with AF and MI compared with participants with 1 of the 2, regardless of temporal order.

Conclusions

We report a bidirectional association between AF and MI, which was observed for both non–ST‐segment–elevation MI and ST‐segment–elevation MI. Participants with both AF and MI had considerably higher mortality compared with participants with only 1 of the 2 conditions, regardless of order.
App‐Based Mental Training to Reduce Atrial Fibrillation–Related Symptoms After Pulmonary Vein Isolation:
MENTAL AF Trial
Authors: Lurz Julia , Hengelhaupt Laura , Unterhuber Matthias , Stenzel Lukas , Hilbert Sebastian , Schöber Anne Rebecca , Dinov Borislav , Darma Angeliki , Dagres Nikolaos , Hindricks Gerhard , Lurz Philipp , Bollmann Andreas
Published: May 2024

Background

Even after atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablation, many patients still experience relevant symptom burden. The objective of the MENTAL AF trial was to determine whether app‐based mental training (MT) during the 3 months following pulmonary vein isolation reduces AF‐related symptoms.

Methods and Results

Patients scheduled for pulmonary vein isolation were enrolled and randomized 1:1 to either app‐based MT or usual care. Of 174 patients, 76 in the MT and 75 in the usual care group were included in the final analysis. The intervention was delivered by a daily 10‐minute app‐based MT. The primary outcome was the intergroup difference of the mean AF6 sum score, an AF‐specific questionnaire, during the 3‐month study period. Secondary outcomes included quality‐of‐life measures such as the AFEQT (Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality of Life). Mean age (SD) was 61 (8.7) years and 61 (41%) were women. The mean AF6 sum score over the study period was 8.9 (6.9) points in the MT group and 12.5 (10.1) in the usual care group (
P
=0.011). This referred to a reduction in the AF6 sum score compared with baseline of 75% in MT and 52% for usual care (
P
<0.001). The change in the AFEQT Global Score was 22.6 (16.3) and 15.7 (22.1), respectively;
P
=0.026.

Conclusions

MENTAL AF showed that app‐based MT as an adjunctive treatment tool following pulmonary vein isolation was feasible. App‐based MT was found to be superior to standard care in reducing AF‐related symptom burden and improving health‐related quality of life.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT04067427.
Diastolic Filling in Patients After Heart Transplantation Is Impaired Due to an Altered Geometrical Relationship Between the Left Atrium and Ventricle
Authors: Steding‐Ehrenborg Katarina , Nelsson Anders , Hedström Erik , Engblom Henrik , Ingvarsson Annika , Nilsson Johan , Braun Oscar , Arheden Håkan
Published: May 2024

Background

The geometrical relationship between atrial and ventricular short‐axis cross‐sectional area determines the hydraulic forces acting on intracardiac blood. This is important for diastolic filling. In patients undergoing heart transplantation (HTx), the left atrium is often enlarged as a result of the standard surgical technique. We hypothesized that diastolic filling in HTx patients is affected by the surgery altering the geometrical relationship between atrium and ventricle.

Methods and Results

This retrospective, cross‐sectional study included 25 HTx patients (median age, 52 [range, 25–70] years), 15 patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (median age, 63 [range, 52–75] years), 15 patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (median age, 74 [range, 56–82] years), and 15 healthy controls (median age, 64 [range, 58–67] years) who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Left ventricular, atrial, and total heart volumes (THV) were obtained. Atrioventricular area difference at end diastole and end systole was calculated as the largest ventricular short‐axis area minus the largest atrial short‐axis area. Left atrial minimum volume normalized for THV (LA
min
/THV) was larger in HTx patients (median, 0.13 [range, 0.07–0.19]) compared with controls (median, 0.05 [range, 0.03–0.08],
P
<0.001), whereas left ventricular volume normalized for THV (left ventricular end‐diastolic volume/THV) was similar between HTx and controls (median, 0.19 [range, 0.12–0.24] and median, 0.22 [range, 0.20–0.25], respectively). At end diastole, when atrioventricular area difference reached its largest positive value in controls, 11 HTx patients (44%) had a negative atrioventricular area difference, indicating impaired diastolic filling.

Conclusions

Diastolic filling is impaired in HTx patients due to an altered geometrical relationship between the left atrium and ventricle. When performing cardiac transplantation, a surgical technique that creates a smaller left atrium may improve diastolic filling by aiding hydraulic forces.
Linking Survivor Stories to Forensic Engineering: How an Interscience Approach Reveals Opportunities for Reducing Tornado Vulnerability in Residential Structures
Authors: LaDue Daphne S. , Roueche David , Lombardo Frank , Mayeux Lara
Published: May 2024

When a tornado strikes a permanent or mobile/manufactured home, occupants are at risk of injury and death from blunt force trauma caused by debris-loaded winds and failure of the structure. Mechanisms for these failures have been studied for the past few decades and identified common weaknesses in the structural load path. Also under study in recent decades, much has been learned about how people receive and understand warnings and determine how, when, and if they will shelter in advance. Recent research, for example, shows most people do not shelter until close to impact, after seeing, hearing, or feeling the approaching tornado. To advance beyond these innovations, a new, multidisciplinary approach was fielded in nine southeast U.S. tornadoes between 2019 and 2022. For each tornado, 1) wind engineering assessments documented near-surface wind fields, 2) structural engineering assessments documented the primary wind load path for each structure, and 3) social science interviews captured the survivor’s narrative and asked several follow-up questions to assure key items of interest were addressed in each interview. When possible, the team was multidisciplinary during the interview, enabling survivors to ask questions and better understand their experiences. Most survivors became aware of the approaching tornado with at least a few minutes of lead time, and most were able to reach a place of refuge. Most survivors recalled sensory experiences during the tornado, and about half could describe the direction or temporal sequences of damage. A case study of the Cookeville, Tennessee, tornado of 3 March 2020 illustrates the power of the integrated data assessment.
Development of Multiscale EnKF within GSI and Its Applications to Multiple Convective Storm Cases with Radar Reflectivity Data Assimilation Using the FV3 Limited-Area Model
Authors: Tong Chong-Chi , Xue Ming , Liu Chengsi , Luo Jingyao , Jung Youngsun
Published: May 2024

To improve the representation of all relevant scales in initial conditions for large-domain convection-allowing models, a new multiscale ensemble Kalman filter (MEnKF) algorithm is developed and implemented within the Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation analysis system (GSI) data assimilation framework coupled with the Finite-Volume Cubed-Sphere Dynamical Core (FV3) limited-area model. The algorithm utilizes ensemble background error covariances filtered to match the observations assimilated. This is realized in a sequential manner. 1) When assimilating coarse-resolution observations such as radiosondes, ensemble background perturbations are filtered to remove scales smaller than those the observations can represent, along with relatively large horizontal localization radii to ensure low-noise and balanced analysis increments. 2) The resulting ensemble analyses from the first step then serve as the background to assimilate denser observations such as radar data with smaller localization radii. Several passes can be taken to assimilate all observations. In this paper, vertically increasing horizontal filter scales are used when assimilating rawinsonde and surface observations together, while radar data are assimilated in the second step. The algorithm is evaluated through six convective storm cases during May 2021, with cycled assimilation of either conventional data only or with additional radar reflectivity followed by 24-h ensemble forecasts. Overall, positive impacts of the MEnKF on forecasts are obtained regardless of reflectivity data; its advantage over the single-scale EnKF is most significant in surface humidity and temperature forecasts up to at least 12 h. More accurate hourly precipitation forecasts with MEnKF can last up to 24 h for light rain. Furthermore, MEnKF forecasts higher ensemble probabilities for the observed hazardous events.
Increased phosphatidylcholine and its hydroperoxides in serum low-density lipoproteins from patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Murakami Nanao , Sakurai Toshihiro , Yamahata Arisa , Sakurai Akiko , Nouso Kazuhiro , Fujii Yuki , Chiba Hitoshi , Hui Shu-Ping
Published: May 2024

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is classified into simple steatosis (SS) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) according to histological findings from liver biopsies. Phosphatidylcholine (PC), the main component of phospholipids in serum lipoproteins, is easily oxidized to phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxide (PC-OOH). Although a lipid composition in the low-density lipoproteins (LDL) from patients with NASH could be abnormal, it remains unclear. Here, to better understand the characteristics of lipids in the LDL from NASH and SS, we compared the composition of PC and PC-OOH species in LDL particles (LDL-PC, LDL-PCOOH) from these patients, then clarified the association between these lipids and NASH severity.

Methods

The serum samples from patients with NASH (female, n = 9) and SS (female, n = 4; male, n = 2) were used for isolation of LDL. Total lipids were extracted from isolated LDL, and the species of PC and PC-OOH were measured using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry.

Results

The sum of LDL-PC and the sum of LDL-PCOOH were significantly higher in NASH than in SS. Several LDL-PC (PC 32:0, 32:1, 32:2, 34:3, 36:2, sum of PC with saturated fatty acyl chains and sum of LDL-PC with polyunsaturated fatty acyl chains) and several LDL-PCOOH (34:2, 36:2, 36:3 and total) were increased significantly with increasing fibrosis score. In particular, a series of LDL-PCOOH were more reflective of the severity of fibrosis score.

Conclusions

LDL-PC and LDL-PCOOH species were strongly correlated with the fibrosis score in NASH, which suggests that abnormal LDL is involved in the development of liver fibrosis.
Expanded beads of polyethylene moldable at low steam pressure
Authors: Tammaro Daniele , Strasser Jean Paul
Published: May 2024

In this study, we explored an innovative approach to extrude expanded polyethylene (ePE) bead foam by utilizing a blend of two types of polyethylene, specifically low-density and linear low-density polyethylene. The intention behind this mixture was to enhance the molding process’s flexibility during steam chest molding. The outcomes of our investigation reveal the adaptability of the devised method and formulation, enabling the production of a broad spectrum of foam densities ranging from 20 to 100 kg/m³. Additionally, we achieved successful molding at remarkably low steam pressures, below 0.6 bar. Our research focuses on the strategic adjustment of processing parameters, including temperature and pressure, along with optimized die geometry for the extrusion foam process. To comprehensively evaluate the foamed molded components, we conducted a comprehensive mechanical and optical analysis. The findings underscore the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of ePE produced through foam extrusion. This method emerges as a promising alternative to expandable polystyrene, especially in applications requiring flexible materials and convenient recyclability without contributing to microplastic pollution in the environment.
The Legacies of Armed Conflict: Insights From Stayees and Returning Forced Migrants
Authors: Ruiz Isabel , Vargas-Silva Carlos
Published: May 2024

How does conflict, displacement, and return shape trust, reconciliation, and community engagement? And what is the relative impact of exposure to violence on these indicators? In this paper we explore these questions by focusing on the legacies of armed conflict and the differences between those who stayed in their communities of origin during the conflict (stayees) and those who were displaced internally and internationally and who returned home over time (returnees). The results, which rely on analysis of data we collected in Burundi, suggest that internal returnees have significantly lower levels of trust, reconciliation, and community engagement than stayees, whereas the differences between international returnees and stayees are mostly statistically insignificant. Greater exposure to violence has a more negative effect on reconciliation and community engagement for returnees compared to stayees, while the effects on trust are mixed.
Effective Teacher Professional Development and Its Influencing Factors: A Cross-National Comparison of the United States, China, Finland, and Singapore
Authors: Zhang Hong , Lyu Xuehan , Qiu Yannan
Published: May 2024

The promotion of effective teacher professional development (ETPD) is a critical issue in the field of teacher education. The present study investigated how ETPD is affected simultaneously by teacher- and school-level factors across the United States, China, Finland, and Singapore. The data were drawn from the Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS 2018) and analyzed using a hierarchical linear model. Findings showed that scores on social utility motivation to teach, self-efficacy in student engagement, and school participative climate were positively and significantly correlated with scores on ETPD across the four countries. It was concluded that gender, education background, teaching experience, personal utility motivation to teach, teacher self-efficacy in classroom management, and teacher–student relations made significant, yet inconsistent, differences in ETPD in the four countries. Motivating teachers to teach and creating a democratic, participatory, and caring school culture may be important measures to promote effective professional development of teachers globally.
Crime, punishment, and detention in secure psychiatric hospital
Authors: Shepherd Andrew
Published: May 2024

Many legal jurisdictions offer some form of hospital diversion and disposal as an alternative to incarceration in prison for mentally disordered offenders. Such diversion is commonly understood as offering a non-punitive alternative in terms of sentencing decisions. However, complete loss of responsibility with respect to acts of violence is rare and indicative of extreme degrees of mental disorder. This raises challenges for sentencers when considering disposal options. From the perspective of the patient and healthcare providers while hospital may be framed as non-punitive, it still involves marked loss of freedom and rights. In this essay, it is argued that failure to acknowledge the punitive element, inherent in hospital detention, risks its repression, and a false dichotomy being established with prison being seen as solely punitive and hospital as solely therapeutic. It is suggested that this division is unhelpful, even potentially harmful, and that a synthesis as solution to this dialectic opposition may be generative in terms of therapeutic work in hospitals, clarification of the role of hospitals in terms of criminal justice disposal, and greater transparency in relation to multi-agency working and the social circumstances of patients detained in secure hospitals. Further work to understand this process is suggested with a particular emphasis being placed on the experience of specific groups of patients, such as women, who may find themselves in a notably precarious state within secure care.
Suicide Risk Among Medical Students Associated With Loneliness, Burnout, and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Klugman Mor , Cohen Ben Simon Or , Kleinhendler-Lustig Dafna , Bourla Sari , Gvion Yari , Hamdan Sami
Published: May 2024

Medical students face elevated risks of depression and suicide due to rigorous training demands. However, comparative research between medical and non-medical students is limited, hindering understanding of specific risks. This study compared 337 students (89 medical) on suicide risk, depression, perfectionism, burnout, loneliness, and internet addiction. Medical students showed significantly higher suicide risk, depression, perfectionism, burnout, and loneliness. Regression analysis identified medical student status, depressive symptoms, and loneliness as significant predictors of suicide risk. Mediation analysis revealed loneliness and depressive symptoms mediating the relationship between medical student status and suicide risk. Strategies to address mental health risks among medical students are crucial, including early screening and interventions. However, this study’s limitations include self-report measures and a predominantly non-medical student sample. Further research is needed to explore causal relationships and interventions effectively.
‘I leave the everyday behind, everyday’: Sounds and spaces of the revanchist middle classes in Berlin’s Fünf Morgen Dahlem Urban village
Authors: Kulz Christy
Published: May 2024

Processes of gentrification and redevelopment have accelerated in Berlin in the decades following reunification, however the lens of research inquiry has most often been trained upon districts like Kreuzberg or Neukölln – areas synonymous with media portrayals of Berlin as a hedonistic, gritty, artistic location. These analyses rarely deal with how the regulation of sound features in Berlin’s reshaping via investment capital. This paper builds on previous research on housing developments and regeneration in Berlin, however it centres itself within the under-researched, affluent space of Dahlem in southwest Berlin. While this long affluent area does not necessarily undergo new-build gentrification, luxury developments like Fünf Morgen provoke sonic and spatial conflicts that highlight cleavages between different factions of the middle-classes. The paper shows how luxury housing projects come to shape the sonic and spatial atmospheres of cities via a micro-examination of sonic and spatial struggles around Fünf Morgen Dahlem Urban Village built almost 10 years ago. Through a discursive and ethnographic engagement with the everyday life of this site formerly occupied by the American Army Forces, the paper explores the urban atmospheres created by these projects after their instantiation. It evidences the neoliberal privatisation processes at work via sonic and spatial conflicts in already affluent city areas.
Gender in Health: Addressing Transgender-Related Stigma and Health Disparities in Southeast Asia
Authors: Alibudbud Rowalt
Published: May 2024

This paper advocates for robust regional research to gain a comprehensive understanding of the specific healthcare requirements of transgender populations, particularly in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), where empirical data is limited. It underscores the importance of acknowledging and mitigating gender minority stress, addressing the pervasive stigma surrounding transgender individuals, ensuring equal access to healthcare, reforming policies to protect the rights of transgender individuals, and promoting supportive community organizations. Through the adoption of these measures, ASEAN can move toward improving the pressing issue of transgender health disparities, thereby safeguarding the well-being of transgender individuals within their region.
Lack of awareness of secondary rheumatic prevention in preoperative candidates for mitral valve surgery – alarming situation
Authors: Khowaja Raheela , Khowaja Aamir , Mangi Ali Raza , Ammar Ali , Khan Waqar , Patel Nehrish , Nizar Rabia , Khursheed Munawar , Sial Jawaid Akbar , Memon Rizwan Aziz
Published: May 2024

Background

We conducted this study to assess the compliance with secondary rheumatic prophylaxis among preoperative patients with rheumatic mitral valve disease undergoing valvular heart surgery at a tertiary care cardiac hospital in a developing country.

Methods

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary care cardiac hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. The inclusion criteria encompassed patients of any sex, aged between 18 and 80 years, who had been diagnosed with rheumatic mitral valve disease through transthoracic echocardiography and had undergone valvular heart surgery. The level of compliance with secondary rheumatic prophylaxis and barriers toward noncompliance was assessed during routine preoperative interview session. This preventive measure plays a crucial role in reducing the progression of the disease and improving patient outcomes.

Results

Out of the 239 patients included in the study, 125 (52.3%) were females, with a mean age of 38.8 ± 11.8 years. The majority of patients (88.7%) came from rural areas. Among the patients, 79 (33.1%) received rheumatic prophylaxis, while 160 (66.9%) did not adhere to it regularly. The common barriers for receiving rheumatic prophylaxis were non availability (41.0%) and nonaffordability (40.6%). Additionally, 28.0% of patients had lacked awareness of the importance of rheumatic prophylaxis, and 2.5% expressed fear of injection site pain and subsequent symptoms.

Conclusions

A concerning level of noncompliance with secondary rheumatic prophylaxis was observed. The barriers identified in patients who did not receive rheumatic prophylaxis were primarily related to affordability, availability, lack of awareness, and fear of injection site pain and subsequent symptoms.
AI is Changing the World: For Better or for Worse?
Authors: Grewal Dhruv , Guha Abhijit , Becker Marc
Published: May 2024

The profound impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) will continue to evolve over the next several decades, and many of these impacts will emerge through marketing-related AI applications. Therefore, marketers, public policymakers, firms, researchers, and individual consumers must recognize and understand the benefits that AI offers, as well as the perils that it presents, both now and in the future. A literature review surfaced three themes – that AI will augment and (potentially) replace human intelligence, that AI will evolve into an empathetic and trusted companion, and that AI will create novel tensions. Next, this article outlines three stages of AI development, from an early stage with much promise, to a stage with many benefits, to a stage wherein AI-related tensions emerge. Finally, this article outlines three grand challenges: (1) preserving and growing human capability, (2) protecting societal belonging and human connection, and (3) ensuring equitable sharing of AI benefits. Addressing such challenges, along with related concerns (e.g., privacy, ethics), can enable society to reap the benefits of AI fruitfully and in an equitable manner that truly improves the quality of life.
A case series of non-small cell lung cancer patients with EGFR or HER2 exon 20 insertion in Li Fraumeni syndrome
Authors: Cognigni Valeria , Capelletto Enrica , Bordi Paola , Pavese Valeria , Carfì Federica Maria , Gelsomino Francesco , De Giglio Andrea , Chiari Rita , Minari Roberta , Ambrosini Enrico , Percesepe Antonio , Giachino Daniela , Bironzo Paolo , Tiseo Marcello
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Germline pathogenic mutations in TP53 gene are associated with a cancer predisposition syndrome known as Li Fraumeni syndrome. Albeit infrequently, non-small cell lung cancer, especially as oncogene-addicted disease, may be diagnosed in young patients with Li Fraumeni syndrome.

Case description:

We report three cases of patients affected by Li Fraumeni syndrome who developed non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR or HER2 exon 20 insertions. The first patient suffered from liposarcoma and, then, brain metastases from HER2-mutated non-small cell lung cancer: after stereotactic radiotherapy, he benefited from enrollment in a clinical trial with a HER2-targeted therapy. The second young patient was a female with personal history of rhabdomyosarcoma, diagnosed with brain metastases from EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer: enrollment in a clinical trial led to a temporary clinical benefit. The last case was a female diagnosed with breast carcinoma, ovarian granulosa cell tumor and advanced EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer at a young age.

Conclusions:

Young patients affected by oncogene-addicted non-small cell lung cancer and with a positive familial cancer history should be referred for an accurate genetic counselling to look for Li Fraumeni syndrome. The underlying molecular connection between TP53 and HER family receptor tyrosine kinases remains unclear, but an extensive molecular characterization of tumors from patients with Li Fraumeni syndrome should always be performed, to offer patients a personalized therapeutic approach.
Blast furnace operation profile monitoring system based on DB-Mini-KMeans and multi-layer perceptron
Authors: Liu Song , Zhao Wei-guang , Liu Ran , Liu Xiaojie , Zhao Jun , Zhang Xu-sheng , Lyu Qing
Published: May 2024

This article proposes a system for monitoring a blast furnace operation based on DB-Mini-KMeans and multi-layer perceptron (MLP), which solves a difficult problem categorising the furnace operation types. The system uses the correlation between cooling wall temperature and furnace operation type, creates an furnace operation type recognition model with optimised K-Means and MLP algorithms and makes a comparison test with other recognition models; evaluates all kinds of operation types by combining six blast furnace production indexes, such as gas utilisation rate and airflow and establishes a monitoring system of furnace operation types in blast furnaces. The clustering performance of the system has been improved by nearly 40%, and the recognition accuracy of various operation types has reached more than 90%, covering functions such as two-dimensional schematic diagrams of furnace operation types and status warnings, which provide help and support for people to analyse furnace conditions.
Qualitative outcomes and impact of a robotic intervention on children with autism spectrum disorder: A multiple embedded case study
Authors: Chung Eva Yin-Han , Sin Kenneth Kuen-Fung , Chow Daniel Hung-Kay
Published: May 2024

Most studies of social robot interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder have been laboratory experiments focusing on component skills. There is insufficient evidence documenting the qualitative impact of such programmes on social development and participation of children with autism spectrum disorder. This study aimed to identify the qualitative outcomes of a robot-mediated social skills training programme for children with autism spectrum disorder, examine the impact of such programmes on children’s social participation and identify the essential elements of robotic interventions that are conducive to children’s social development. A case study approach with a multiple case study design was adopted. Sixteen children with autism spectrum disorder, aged 5–11 years, were included. Participants received 12 weekly sessions of robot-mediated social skills training. The successful outcomes relating to social participation were identified as enhanced verbal expression, social awareness and emotional reciprocity. The impacts of the programme on personal development were identified as enhanced self-esteem, self-confidence and emotional expression. Robot friendship, the role of the robot as a facilitator and the presence of a human instructor capable of leading the programme were identified as essential elements of the positive changes. The encounter with a social robot was regarded as meaningful and important to the children with autism spectrum disorder.
Embedding research within occupational therapy pre-registration training: A concept mapping study engaging staff and student voices
Authors: Hackett Katie L , Atkin Helen , Kamalakannan Sureshkumar , Murray Mendes Savannah , Lowe Julie Anne , Whitehead Phillip , Bradley Gemma
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Occupational therapists require research and evaluation skills to deliver evidence-based care, making research education integral to their training. We aimed to develop a student and staff-informed strategy to further embed research into the occupational therapy programmes and enhance the research culture at a United Kingdom Higher Education Institution.

Method:

We used group concept mapping to gather ideas from students and staff on how to embed research and improve research culture within the occupational therapy programmes at a United Kingdom Higher Education Institution. Participants generated, sorted and rated ideas for importance and success. We analysed the data to create a concept map and identified rating values for the themed clusters and their ideas.

Results:

The concept map contained four themed clusters of ideas: Wider research community, Integration of research into the core programme, Advanced research support and capacity building and Research awareness. Successes and improvement targets were identified within each cluster.

Conclusion:

Group concept mapping provided a structured and comprehensive method to develop a strategy for embedding research and fostering a research culture in occupational therapy programmes at a higher education institution. The four-themed concept map and identified priority targets serve as a foundation for implementing the strategy and improving research integration in occupational therapy education.