bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do the Various Indirect Bonding Techniques Provide the Same Accuracy for Orthodontic Bracket Placement? (Randomized Clinical Trial)
Authors: Al-Ubaydi Ammar Sh. , Al-Groosh Dheaa
Published: January 2024

Background. For orthodontic treatment to be effective, bracket placement must be precise to make the finishing stage easier, leading to an ideal occlusion with minimal intervention. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of manual and digital bracket positioning techniques utilizing computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) jigs, 3D‐printed indirect bonding trays (IBT), and double‐layer vacuum‐formed thermoplastic IBT. Methods.This study was done by scanning the dental arch of 30 orthodontic patients. The virtual setup and bracket positioning were performed with the Insignia™ system for ten patients, and 3D Maestro® software was used for the virtual setup of the remaining 20 patients. At the same time, the bracket positioning of 10 patients was done digitally by the 3D Maestro® software and the remaining 10 patients manually through the Ray Set® device. IBT were fabricated by CAD/CAM system, 3D printer, and vacuum‐formed thermoplastic machine. A virtual bracket position was compared to the actual bracket position using the best‐fit method of 3D digital superimposition in Geomagic® Control X™ (CX) software to determine how accurate it was in terms of linear and angular accuracy. Statistical analyses using SPSS 26.0 including Bland–Altman plots were used to assess the intra‐examiner reproducibility. Shapiro–Wilk test was used to measure normality distribution. Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed rank test was used to analyze the differences between bracket positions within each group. Results. Although there were obvious positional discrepancies between several readings, they were still within clinically acceptable ranges. Conclusions. All types of IBT would translate the planned position of the bracket from the digital and manual techniques to the teeth of patients with accepted precision in both linear and angular measurements; in addition, the error rate is about the same for all types of IBT. This trial is registered with NCT05549089.
A New Case of Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Presented with Tolosa–Hunt Syndrome Manifestations
Authors: Mohebbi Maryam , Nafissi Shahriar , Alikhani Majid
Published: January 2024

Background. Tolosa–Hunt syndrome (THS) is a rare disorder involving the orbital and retro‐orbital space. The typical symptoms include sensory loss in the trigeminal nerve’s distribution, orbital pain, swelling, headaches, and cranial nerve palsies. Case Presentation. We report a 40‐year‐old female who initially presented with biparietal headache, unresponsive to medication, which then led to ophthalmoplegia and orbital pain. Serological findings demonstrated positive CANCA‐PR3. She was initially treated with 1 g pulse methylprednisolone for three days. Based on the rheumatological evaluation and her positive lung nodule, hematuria, dysmorphic red blood cells, and positive antiproteinase 3 classic antineutrophil cytoplasm antibodies (CANCA‐PR3) and also based on the diagnostic criteria for granulomatosis with polyangiitis criteria for Wegner disease, her treatment was continued with prednisolone 1 mg/kg and also rituximab at the first and 14th day of treatment. Conclusion. In our case of THS, we achieved satisfactory improvement in symptoms through the administration of high‐dose steroids.
The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hyperkalemia in the Outpatient Setting
Authors: Sevamontree Chadapa , Jintajirapan Supreeya , Phakdeekitcharoen Pran , Phakdeekitcharoen Bunyong
Published: January 2024

Background. Hyperkalemia is a life-threatening condition in outpatient and emergency departments. Hyperkalemia is associated with more events of major adverse cardiovascular diseases, hospitalization, and death. The aim of this study is to study and assess the prevalence and risk factors for developing hyperkalemia within the Thai population. Method. A cross-sectional observational study of 3,299 unique adult patients (≥18 years) in one calendar year (2021) with at least 1 valid serum potassium (SK) test was conducted in the outpatient department of medicine. Hyperkalemia was determined as SK ≥5.8 mmol/L without hemolysis or technical error. Clinical data and laboratory tests were collected for analysis of risk factors. Result. 2,971 patients (131 hyperkalemia and 2,840 control) were eligible. The annual prevalence of hyperkalemia was 4.41%. The mean ages of patients were 66.5 years in the hyperkalemia group and 55.9 years in the control group. Increasing age had a positive association (r = 0.220, p<0.001) to risk of hyperkalemia, whereas the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) had an inverse association with SK level (r = −0.398, p<0.001). The risk factors for hyperkalemia were patients with age ≥65 years (odds ratio, 2.106; 95% CI, 1.399, 3.171; p<0.001), presence of diabetes mellitus (DM, odds ratio, 1.541; 95% CI, 1.030, 2.306; p=0.036), chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage ≥3 (odds ratio, 14.885; 95% CI, 8.112, 27.313; p<0.001), hemodialysis treatment (odds ratio, 10.170; 95% CI, 5.858, 17.657; p<0.001), and usage of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi, odds ratio, 2.256; 95% CI, 1.440, 3.536; p<0.001). Conclusion. The risk factors contributing to hyperkalemia were patients with older age, DM, CKD, hemodialysis treatment, and usage of RAASi. Although the usage of RAASi is proven to be a cardiovascular advantage in the elderly, DM, and CKD patients, careful monitoring of SK is strongly advised to optimize patient care.
Supervised AutoEncoder-Based Beamforming Approach for Satellite mmWave Communication
Authors: Shojaei Seyed Pouya , Soleimani Hossein , Soleimani Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Beamforming is a technique commonly used in wireless communication systems to enhance the signal quality of a receiver. In this study, we compare the performance of an encoder-based beamformer with convolutional neural network (CNN) and minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) approaches in terms of signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR). Our results show that the encoder-based approach achieved an average SINR of 25.82 dB, while the CNN approach achieved an average SINR of 22.40 dB and the MVDR approach achieved an average SINR of 17.64 dB. The performance of the encoder-based approach was found to be superior to that of the CNN approach but much superior to that of the MVDR approach. The encoder-based approach outperformed the CNN approach by 3.42 dB and MVDR approach by 8.18 dB on average. In addition, the unique contribution of our encoder-based approach is presenting a new perspective on beamforming in mmWave communication. We further discuss its potential impact on addressing challenges related to LEO satellite systems.
Prevalence of Influenza Viruses A and B, Adenovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and Human Metapneumonia Viruses among Children with Acute Respiratory Tract Infection
Authors: Farzi Rana , Pirbonyeh Neda , Kadivar Mohammad Rahim , Moattari Afagh
Published: January 2024

Background. Acute respiratory tract infection (ARTI) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among children worldwide. The majority of acute respiratory infections in children are caused by viruses, with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) being the most frequently encountered. Other important viral pathogens include human metapneumovirus, human coronaviruses, adenovirus, and influenza. These infections can lead to complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia. So, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of influenza viruses A and B, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in children with ARTI. Methods. The molecular diagnostic of polymerase chain reaction approach was used to detect influenza (A and B), metapneumovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenovirus in respiratory samples of children with acute respiratory infection hospitalization in a teaching hospital of the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in January 2016–March 2017. Results. Of the 340 patients examined, 208 (61.20%) were male and the median age was 3.13 ± 2.38 years. Respiratory viruses were found in 179 (52.64%) patients. The male-to-female ratio was 1.63 : 1 in patients who were viral positive. Detection rates for influenza A, adenovirus, influenza B, RSV, and HMPV were 28.23%, 24.70%, 8.52%, 3.23%, and 2.64%, respectively, and coinfections were detected in 24.02%. The most common combination of two-virus coinfections was IFVA/AdV, followed by IFVB/AdV, AdV, IFVB/IFVA, RSV/IFVA, HMPV/AdV, RSV/AdV, and HMPV/IFVA. Conclusion. The high prevalence of respiratory viruses in children hospitalized with ARTI suggests that viral infection may play a role in disease pathogenesis. This should be confirmed through the conduct of case-control studies and may inform the role of vaccination to prevent respiratory viral infections.
Tailoring Type II Diabetes Treatment: Investigating the Effect of 5‐HTT Polymorphisms on HbA1c Levels after Metformin Initiation
Authors: Ochi Taichi , de Vos Stijn , Touw Daan , Denig Petra , Feenstra Talitha , Hak Eelko
Published: January 2024

Aims. To investigate the effect of serotonin transporter (5‐HTT) polymorphisms on change in HbA1c levels six months after metformin initiation in type 2 diabetes patients. Materials and Methods. Participants of PROVALID (PROspective cohort study in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for VALidation of biomarkers) within the GIANTT (Groningen Initiative to ANalyse Type 2 Diabetes Treatment) cohort who initiated metformin were genotyped for combined 5‐HTTLPR/rs25531 (L ∗L ∗, L ∗S ∗, and S ∗S ∗) and 5‐HTT VNTR (STin 2.12, 12/‐, and 10/‐) polymorphisms, respectively. Multiple linear regression was applied to determine the change in HbA1c level from baseline date to six months across 5‐HTTLPR/VNTR genotype groups, adjusted for baseline HbA1c, age, gender, triglyceride level, low‐density lipoprotein level, and serum creatinine. Results. 157 participants were included, of which 56.2% were male. The average age was 59.3 ± 9.23 years, and the mean baseline HbA1c was 7.49% ± 1.21%. 5‐HTTLPR was characterized in 46 patients as L ∗L ∗, 70 patients as L ∗S ∗, and 41 patients as S ∗S ∗ genotypes. No significant association was found between 5‐HTTLPR and 5‐HTT VNTR genotypes and change in HbA1c after adjustments. Conclusions. 5‐HTT polymorphisms did not affect HbA1c levels six months after the start of metformin. Further long‐term studies in large samples would be relevant to determine which polymorphisms can explain the variation in response to metformin treatment.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment Receipt in the United States: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wagle Nikita Sandeep , Park Sulki , Washburn David , Ohsfeldt Robert , Kum Hye-Chung , Singal Amit G.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Racial and ethnic disparities in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prognosis exist, partly related to differential failures along the cancer care continuum. We characterized racial and ethnic disparities in treatment receipt among patients with HCC in the United States.

Methods:

We searched Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases to identify studies published between January 2012 and March 2022 reporting HCC treatment receipt among adult patients with HCC, stratified by race or ethnicity. We calculated pooled odds ratios for HCC treatment using random effects models.

Results:

We identified 15 studies with 320,686 patients (65.8% White, 13.9% Black, 10.4% Asian, and 8.5% Hispanic). Overall, 33.2% of HCC patients underwent any treatment, and 22.7% underwent curative treatment. Compared with White patients, Black patients had lower odds of any treatment (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.55–0.81) and curative treatment (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.71–0.78). Similarly, Hispanic patients had lower pooled odds of curative treatment (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.73–0.84).

Conclusions:

There were significant racial and ethnic disparities in HCC treatment receipt, with Black patients having lower odds of receiving any and curative treatment while Hispanic patients having lower odds of curative treatment.

Impact:

Racial and ethnic differences in treatment receipt serve as an intervention target to reduce disparities in HCC prognosis.
Data from Multiple Isoforms of CDC25 Oppose ATM Activity to Maintain Cell Proliferation during Vertebrate Development
Authors: Verduzco Daniel , Dovey Jennifer Shepard , Shukla Abhay A. , Kodym Elisabeth , Skaug Brian A. , Amatruda James F.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The early development of vertebrate embryos is characterized by rapid cell proliferation necessary to support the embryo's growth. During this period, the embryo must maintain a balance between ongoing cell proliferation and mechanisms that arrest or delay the cell cycle to repair oxidative damage and other genotoxic stresses. The ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase is a critical regulator of the response to DNA damage, acting through downstream effectors, such as p53 and checkpoint kinases (CHK) to mediate cell-cycle checkpoints in the presence of DNA damage. Mice and humans with inactivating mutations in ATM are viable but have increased susceptibility to cancers. The possible role of ATM in limiting cell proliferation in early embryos has not been fully defined. One target of ATM and CHKs is the Cdc25 phosphatase, which facilitates cell-cycle progression by removing inhibitory phosphates from cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK). We have identified a zebrafish mutant, standstill, with an inactivating mutation in cdc25a. Loss of cdc25a in the zebrafish leads to accumulation of cells in late G2 phase. We find that the novel family member cdc25d is essential for early development in the absence of cdc25a, establishing for the first time that cdc25d is active in vivo in zebrafish. Surprisingly, we find that cell-cycle progression in cdc25a mutants can be rescued by chemical or genetic inhibition of ATM. Checkpoint activation in cdc25a mutants occurs despite the absence of increased DNA damage, highlighting the role of Cdc25 proteins to balance constitutive ATM activity during early embryonic development. Mol Cancer Res; 10(11); 1451–61. ©2012 AACR.
Data from IEX-1 Deficiency Protects against Colonic Cancer
Authors: Ustyugova Irina V. , Zhi Liang , Abramowitz Joel , Birnbaumer Lutz , Wu Mei X.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The immediate early response gene X-1 (IEX-1) is involved in regulation of various cellular processes including proliferation, apoptosis in part by controlling homeostasis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at mitochondria. The present study shows reduced inflammatory responses and colorectal cancer in IEX-1 knockout (KO) mice treated with azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). However, DSS induced worse colitis in RAG−/−IEX-1−/− double KO mice than in RAG and IEX-1 single KO mice, underscoring an importance of T cells in IEX-1 deficiency-induced protection against colon inflammation. Lack of IEX-1 promoted the differentiation of interleukin (IL)-17–producing T cells, concomitant with upregulation of Gαi2 expression, a gene that is well-documented for its role in the control of inflammation in the colon. In accordance with this, T-helper 17 (TH17) cell differentiation was compromised in the absence of Gαi2, and deletion of Gαi2 in T cells alone aggravated colon inflammation and colorectal cancer development after azoxymethane/DSS treatment. Null mutation of IEX-1 also enhanced both proliferation and apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) after injury. A potential impact of this altered IEC turnover on colon inflammation and cancer development is discussed. These observations provide a linkage of IEX-1 and Gαi2 expression in the regulation of TH17 cell differentiation and suggest a previously unappreciated role for IEX-1 in the control of colon epithelial homeostasis. Mol Cancer Res; 10(6); 760–7. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Acquisition of Resistance of Pancreatic Cancer Cells to 2-Methoxyestradiol Is Associated with the Upregulation of Manganese Superoxide Dismutase
Authors: Zhou Jianhong , Du Yuchun
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Acquired resistance of cancer cells to anticancer drugs or ionizing radiation (IR) is one of the major obstacles in cancer treatment. Pancreatic cancer is an exceptional aggressive cancer, and acquired drug resistance in this cancer is common. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an essential role in cell apoptosis, which is a key mechanism by which radio- or chemotherapy induce cell killing. Mitochondria are the major source of ROS in cells. Thus, alterations in the expression of mitochondrial proteins, involved in ROS production or scavenging, may be closely linked to the resistance of cancer cells to radio- or chemotherapy. In the present study, we generated a stable cell line by exposing pancreatic cancer cells to increasing concentrations of ROS-inducing, anticancer compound 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME) over a 3-month period. The resulting cell line showed strong resistance to 2-ME and contained an elevated level of ROS. We then used a comparative proteomics method to profile the differential expression of mitochondrial proteins between the parental and the resistant cells. One protein identified to be upregulated in the resistant cells was manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2), a mitochondrial protein that converts superoxide radicals to hydrogen peroxides. Silencing of SOD2 resensitized the resistant cells to 2-ME, and overexpression of SOD2 led the parental cells to 2-ME resistance. In addition, the 2-ME–resistant cells also showed resistance to IR. Our results suggest that upregulation of SOD2 expression is an important mechanism by which pancreatic cancer cells acquire resistance to ROS-inducing, anticancer drugs, and potentially also to IR. Mol Cancer Res; 10(6); 768–77. ©2012 AACR.
Data from Genetic and Epigenetic Inactivation of Extracellular Superoxide Dismutase Promotes an Invasive Phenotype in Human Lung Cancer by Disrupting ECM Homeostasis
Authors: Teoh-Fitzgerald Melissa L.T. , Fitzgerald Matthew P. , Jensen Taylor J. , Futscher Bernard W. , Domann Frederick E.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Extracellular superoxide dismutase (EcSOD) is an important superoxide scavenger in the lung in which its loss, sequence variation, or abnormal expression contributes to lung diseases; however, the role of EcSOD in lung cancer has yet to be studied. We hypothesized that EcSOD loss could affect malignant progression in lung, and could be either genetic or epigenetic in nature. To test this, we analyzed EcSOD expression, gene copy number, promoter methylation, and chromatin accessibility in normal lung and carcinoma cells. We found that normal airway epithelial cells expressed abundant EcSOD and had an unmethylated promoter, whereas EcSOD-negative lung cancer cells displayed aberrant promoter hypermethylation and decreased chromatin accessibility. 5-aza-dC induced EcSOD suggesting that cytosine methylation was causal, in part, to silencing. In 48/50 lung tumors, EcSOD mRNA was significantly lower as early as stage I, and the EcSOD promoter was hypermethylated in 8/10 (80%) adenocarcinomas compared with 0/5 normal lung samples. In addition, 20% of the tumors showed loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of EcSOD. Reexpression of EcSOD attenuated the malignant phenotype of lung carcinoma cells by significantly decreasing invasion and survival. Finally, EcSOD decreased heparanase and syndecan-1 mRNAs in part by reducing NF-κB. By contrast, MnSOD and CuZnSOD showed no significant changes in lung tumors and had no effect on heparanase expression. Taken together, the loss of EcSOD expression is unique among the superoxide dismutases in lung cancer and is the result of EcSOD promoter methylation and LOH, suggesting that its early loss may contribute to ECM remodeling and malignant progression. Mol Cancer Res; 10(1); 40–51. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Uncoupling p53 Functions in Radiation-Induced Intestinal Damage via PUMA and p21
Authors: Leibowitz Brian J. , Qiu Wei , Liu Hongtao , Cheng Tao , Zhang Lin , Yu Jian
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The role of p53 in tissue protection is not well understood. Loss of p53 blocks apoptosis in the intestinal crypts following irradiation but paradoxically accelerates gastrointestinal (GI) damage and death. PUMA and p21 are the major mediators of p53-dependent apoptosis and cell-cycle checkpoints, respectively. To better understand these two arms of p53 response in radiation-induced GI damage, we compared animal survival, as well as apoptosis, proliferation, cell-cycle progression, DNA damage, and regeneration in the crypts of WT, p53 knockout (KO), PUMA KO, p21 KO, and p21/PUMA double KO (DKO) mice in a whole body irradiation model. Deficiency in p53 or p21 led to shortened survival but accelerated crypt regeneration associated with massive nonapoptotic cell death. Nonapoptotic cell death is characterized by aberrant cell-cycle progression, persistent DNA damage, rampant replication stress, and genome instability. PUMA deficiency alone enhanced survival and crypt regeneration by blocking apoptosis but failed to rescue delayed nonapoptotic crypt death or shortened survival in p21 KO mice. These studies help to better understand p53 functions in tissue injury and regeneration and to potentially improve strategies to protect or mitigate intestinal damage induced by radiation. Mol Cancer Res; 9(5); 616–25. ©2011 AACR.
Data from SDF-1α Induces PDGF-B Expression and the Differentiation of Bone Marrow Cells into Pericytes
Authors: Hamdan Randala , Zhou Zhichao , Kleinerman Eugenie S.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Platelet-derived growth factor B (PDGF-B) and its receptor, PDGFR-β, play a critical role in pericyte maturation; however, the mechanisms by which PDGF-B is upregulated in the tumor microenvironment remain unclear. We previously showed that upregulating stromal-derived factor, SDF-1α, in VEGF165-inhibited Ewing's sarcoma tumors (TC/siVEGF7-1) induced PDGF-B mRNA expression, increased infiltration and differentiation of bone marrow cells (BMC) into pericytes and, rescued tumor growth. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism by which SDF-1α increased PDGF-B expression and the role of this pathway in BM-derived pericyte differentiation. We showed that SDF-1α induced expression of PDGF-B mRNA and protein both in vitro and in vivo. In contrast, inhibiting SDF-1α downregulated PDGF-B. We cloned the 2-kb pdgf-b promoter fragment and showed that SDF-1α activates PDGF-B via a transcriptional mechanism. Chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that the ELK-1 transcription factor binds to the pdgf-b promoter in response to SDF-1α. We confirmed the correlation between the SDF-1α/PDGF-B pathway and the differentiation of PDGFR-β+ BMCs into mature pericytes using an in vitro assay. These findings show that SDF-1α regulates PDGF-B expression and that this regulation plays a critical role in the differentiation of PDGFR-β+ BMCs into mature pericytes. Mol Cancer Res; 9(11); 1462–70. ©2011 AACR.
Data from Osteopontin Stimulates Preneoplastic Cellular Proliferation Through Activation of the MAPK Pathway
Authors: Luo Xianmin , Ruhland Megan K. , Pazolli Ermira , Lind Anne C. , Stewart Sheila A.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Alterations in the microenvironment collaborate with cell autonomous mutations during the transformation process. Indeed, cancer-associated fibroblasts and senescent fibroblasts stimulate tumorigenesis in xenograft models. Because senescent fibroblasts accumulate with age, these findings suggest that they contribute to age-related increases in tumorigenesis. Previously we showed that senescence-associated stromal-derived osteopontin contributes to preneoplastic cell growth in vitro and in xenografts, suggesting that it impacts neoplastic progression. Analysis of fibroblasts within premalignant and malignant skin lesions ranging from solar/actinic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma revealed they express osteopontin. Given the stromal expression of osteopontin, we investigated how osteopontin impacts preneoplastic cell growth. We show that osteopontin promotes preneoplastic keratinocyte cellular proliferation and cell survival through the CD44 cell receptor and activation of the MAPK pathway. These data suggest that stromal-derived osteopontin impacts tumorigenesis by stimulating preneoplastic cell proliferation thus allowing expansion of initiated cells in early lesions. Mol Cancer Res; 9(8); 1018–29. ©2011 AACR.
Unraveling the Diversity of GJB2 Mutations in Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss: A Comprehensive Study in the Moroccan Population
Authors: El Fizazi Khawla , Abbassi Meriame , Nmer Samira , Laamarti Hajar , ElAlami Mohamed Noureddine , Ouldim Karim , Bouguenouch Laila , Ridal Mohammed
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Despite the high genetic heterogeneity of hearing loss, mutations in the GJB2 gene are a major cause of autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss (NSHL) worldwide. However, the mutation profile of GJB2 in NSHL is under-investigated in Morocco, especially among simplex cases. This study aimed to identify the spectrum and frequency of GJB2 mutations in the Moroccan population among simplex and multiplex families with NSHL. Methods: Moroccan families with NSHL were selected according to well-defined criteria. Selected families were screened for GJB2 gene variants using direct sequencing of the entire coding region of GJB2. Results: A total of 145 affected individuals from 115 families with NSHL were included in this study (49 simplex, 66 multiplex). Mutations in the GJB2 gene were noted in 28.69% of the families (33/115), of which 75.75% were multiplex families and 24.24% were simplex. In total, seven different mutations were detected: c.35delG(p.G12fs), c.551G>A(p.R184Q), c.139G>T(p.E47X), c.109G>A(p.V37I), c.167delT(p.L56fs), c.617A>G(p.N206S), c.94C>T(p.R32C). The last three mutations have not previously been reported in Morocco. The most common GJB2 mutation was c.35delG (21.73%), followed by p.V37I (2.60%) and p.E47X (1.73%). Conclusions: Our study confirms a high prevalence of GJB2 variants in the Moroccan population, particularly the c.35delG mutation. Additionally, we have identified previously unreported or rarely reported mutations, revealing a greater diversity of GJB2 mutations. These findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive screening beyond the 35delG mutation for patients with NSHL, regardless of their family history. Integrating this approach into clinical care will enhance diagnosis and management of hearing loss in the Moroccan population.
Capital social e felicidade individual no Brasil
Authors: Soares Laís de Sousa Abreu , Dalboni Filipe Mendes , Teixeira Evandro Camargos
Published: January 2024

A Economia da Felicidade é uma área interdisciplinar e em ascensão, que introduz conceitos subjetivos à análise econômica. Uma questão explorada na literatura empírica refere-se à relação entre felicidade e capital social. No entanto, estudos relacionados ao tema apresentam-se de forma heterogênea em razão da dificuldade de se definir um conceito universal para capital social. Assim, o presente estudo analisa a referida relação, incluindo três dimensões de capital social: confiança, normas e redes interpessoais. A partir de dados da World Values Survey e da estimação de um modelo Probit Ordenado, encontrou-se relação positiva entre capital social e bem-estar subjetivo.
Hierarchical End Points in Prior Heart Failure Trials and the HEART-FID Trial
Authors: Harrington Josephine , Mentz Robert J. , Rockhold Frank W. , Garg Jyotsna , Butler Javed , De Pasquale Carmine G. , Ezekowitz Justin A. , Lewis Gregory D. , O’Meara Eileen , Ponikowski Piotr , Troughton Richard W. , Wong Yee W. , Adamczyk Robert , Storie Tatyana , Blackman Nicole , Hernandez Adrian F.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Clinical trials in heart failure (HF) traditionally use time-to-event analyses focusing on death and hospitalization for HF. These time-to-first event analyses may have more limited abilities to assess the probability of benefiting from a therapy, especially if that benefit manifests as improved functional status rather than reduced risk of death or HF hospitalization. Hierarchical end points including clinical outcomes and patient status measures allow for ranked evaluation of outcomes in 1 metric assessing whether patients randomized to intervention or control are more likely to derive an overall benefit while also allowing more patients to contribute to the primary outcome.

METHODS:

We review the rationale for using hierarchical end points in HF trials, provide examples of HF trials that used this type of end point, and discuss its use in the HEART-FID trial (Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial of Ferric Carboxymaltose as Treatment for Heart Failure With Iron Deficiency), the largest HF trial to date implementing a hierarchical end point analysis for the primary outcome.

RESULTS:

Using a hierarchical end point as the primary outcome allows for the inclusion of different types of outcomes in 1 ranked end point, making it possible to more holistically assess the potential utility of a new therapy on patient well-being and outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Hierarchical end points assess the potential utility of a new therapy on patient well-being and outcome more holistically than time-to-first event analysis. Trials that would not have been feasible due to decreasing rates of death and hospitalization in the HF population can use hierarchical end points to successfully power studies to identify promising HF therapies. The HEART-FID trial used hierarchical end points to better determine the role of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose in patients with HF.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03037931.
Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Imaging of Atherosclerotic Intracranial Disease
Authors: Chen Li Hui , Spagnolo-Allende Antonio , Yang Dixon , Qiao Ye , Gutierrez Jose
Published: January 2024

Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) is one of the most common causes of stroke worldwide. Among people with stroke, those of East Asia descent and non-White populations in the United States have a higher burden of ICAD-related stroke compared with Whites of European descent. Disparities in the prevalence of asymptomatic ICAD are less marked than with symptomatic ICAD. In addition to stroke, ICAD increases the risk of dementia and cognitive decline, magnifying ICAD societal burden. The risk of stroke recurrence among patients with ICAD-related stroke is the highest among those with confirmed stroke and stenosis ≥70%. In fact, the 1-year recurrent stroke rate of >20% among those with stenosis >70% is one of the highest rates among common causes of stroke. The mechanisms by which ICAD causes stroke include plaque rupture with in situ thrombosis and occlusion or artery-to-artery embolization, hemodynamic injury, and branch occlusive disease. The risk of stroke recurrence varies by the presumed underlying mechanism of stroke, but whether techniques such as quantitative magnetic resonance angiography, computed tomographic angiography, magnetic resonance perfusion, or transcranial Doppler can help with risk stratification beyond the degree of stenosis is less clear. The diagnosis of ICAD is heavily reliant on lumen-based studies, such as computed tomographic angiography, magnetic resonance angiography, or digital subtraction angiography, but newer technologies, such as high-resolution vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging, can help distinguish ICAD from stenosing arteriopathies.
Emergent Resource Exchange and Tolerated Theft Behavior Using Multiagent Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Garbus Jack , Pollack Jordan
Published: January 2024

For decades, the evolution of cooperation has piqued interest in numerous academic disciplines, such as game theory, economics, biology, and computer science. In this work, we demonstrate the emergence of a novel and effective resource exchange protocol formed by dropping and picking up resources in a foraging environment. This form of cooperation is made possible by the introduction of a campfire, which adds an extended period of congregation and downtime for agents to explore otherwise unlikely interactions. We find that the agents learn to avoid getting cheated by their exchange partners, but not always from a third party. We also observe the emergence of behavior analogous to tolerated theft, despite the lack of any punishment, combat, or larceny mechanism in the environment.
The Darwin wasp Camera thoracica (Szépligeti, 1916) (Ichneumonidae) as a natural enemy of the dreaded Brazilian wandering spider Phoneutria nigriventer (Keyserling, 1891) (Ctenidae)
Authors: PÁDUA DIEGO G. , SILVA-SANTOS ISAMARA , SANTOS BERNARDO F. , FAUSTINO-MAGALHÃES MAYARA D. , SOUZA MARIA N. A. , KLOSS THIAGO G.
Published: January 2024

Wandering spiders (genus Phoneutria) hold a prominent position as some of the world’s most medically significant venomous arachnids, especially in Brazil. In this study, we record and illustrate for the first time, the Darwin wasp Camera thoracica (Szépligeti, 1916) as a natural enemy of the ctenid Phoneutria nigriventer (Keyserling, 1891). Furthermore, we provide a description of the previously unknown male wasp, update and standardize the description of the female, and provide biological notes.
Cyclogenesis in the Tropical Atlantic: First Scientific Highlights from the Clouds–Atmospheric Dynamics–Dust Interactions in West Africa (CADDIWA) Field Campaign
Authors: Flamant Cyrille , Chaboureau Jean-Pierre , Delanoë Julien , Gaetani Marco , Jamet Cédric , Lavaysse Christophe , Bock Olivier , Borne Maurus , Cazenave Quitterie , Coutris Pierre , Cuesta Juan , Menut Laurent , Aubry Clémantyne , Benedetti Angela , Bosser Pierre , Bounissou Sophie , Caudoux Christophe , Collomb Hélène , Donal Thomas , Febvre Guy , Fehr Thorsten , Fink Andreas H. , Formenti Paola , Araujo Nicolau Gomes , Knippertz Peter , Lecuyer Eric , Andrade Mateus Neves , Langué Cédric Gacial Ngoungué , Jonville Tanguy , Schwarzenboeck Alfons , Takeishi Azusa
Published: January 2024

During the boreal summer, mesoscale convective systems generated over West Africa propagate westward and interact with African easterly waves, and dust plumes transported from the Sahel and Sahara by the African easterly jet. Once off West Africa, the vortices in the wake of these mesoscale convective systems evolve in a complex environment sometimes leading to the development of tropical storms and hurricanes, especially in September when sea surface temperatures are high. Numerical weather predictions of cyclogenesis downstream of West Africa remains a key challenge due to the incomplete understanding of the clouds–atmospheric dynamics–dust interactions that limit predictability. The primary objective of the Clouds–Atmospheric Dynamics–Dust Interactions in West Africa (CADDIWA) project is to improve our understanding of the relative contributions of the direct, semidirect, and indirect radiative effects of dust on the dynamics of tropical waves as well as the intensification of vortices in the wake of offshore mesoscale convective systems and their evolution into tropical storms over the North Atlantic. Airborne observations relevant to the assessment of such interactions (active remote sensing, in situ microphysics probes, among others) were made from 8 to 21 September 2021 in the tropical environment of Sal Island, Cape Verde. The environments of several tropical cyclones, including Tropical Storm Rose, were monitored and probed. The airborne measurements also serve the purpose of regional model evaluation and the validation of spaceborne wind, aerosol and cloud products pertaining to satellite missions of the European Space Agency and EUMETSAT (including the Aeolus, EarthCARE, and IASI missions).
Observational Evidence of Cold Filamentary Intensification in an Energetic Meander of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current
Authors: Jakes Maya I. , Phillips Helen E. , Foppert Annie , Cyriac Ajitha , Bindoff Nathaniel L. , Rintoul Stephen R. , Thompson Andrew F.
Published: January 2024

Eddy stirring at mesoscale oceanic fronts generates finescale filaments, visible in submesoscale-resolving model simulations and high-resolution satellite images of sea surface temperature, ocean color, and sea ice. Submesoscale filaments have widths of O(1–10) km and evolve on time scales of hours to days, making them extremely challenging to observe. Despite their relatively small scale, submesoscale processes play a key role in the climate system by providing a route to dissipation; altering the stratification of the ocean interior; and generating strong vertical velocities that exchange heat, carbon, nutrients, and oxygen between the mixed layer and the ocean interior. We present a unique set of in situ and satellite observations in a standing meander region of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) that supports the theory of cold filamentary intensification—revealing enhanced vertical velocities and evidence of subduction and ventilation associated with finescale cold filaments. We show that these processes are not confined to the mixed layer; EM-APEX floats reveal enhanced downward velocities (>100 m day−1) and evidence of ageostrophic motion extending as deep as 1600 dbar, associated with a ∼20-km-wide cold filament. A finer-scale (∼5 km wide) cold filament crossed by a towed Triaxus is associated with anomalous chlorophyll and oxygen values extending at least 100–200 dbar below the base of the mixed layer, implying recent subduction and ventilation. Energetic standing meanders within the weakly stratified ACC provide an environment conductive to the generation of finescale filaments that can transport water mass properties across mesoscale fronts and deep into the ocean interior.
Detection of Superrefraction at the Top of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer from COSMIC-2 Radio Occultations
Authors: Sokolovskiy Sergey , Zeng Zhen , Hunt Douglas C. , Weiss Jan-Peter , Braun John J. , Schreiner William S. , Anthes Richard A. , Kuo Ying-Hwa , Zhang Hailing , Lenschow Donald H. , Vanhove Teresa
Published: January 2024

Superrefraction at the top of the atmospheric boundary layer introduces problems for assimilation of radio occultation data in weather models. A method of detection of superrefraction by spectral analysis of deep radio occultation signals introduced earlier has been tested using 2 years of COSMIC-2/FORMOSAT-7 radio occultation data. Our analysis shows a significant dependence of the probability of detection of superrefraction on the signal-to-noise ratio, which results in a certain sampling nonuniformity. Despite this nonuniformity, the results are consistent with the known global distribution of superrefraction (mainly over the subtropical oceans) and show some additional features and seasonal variations. Comparisons to the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts analyses and limited set of radiosondes show reasonable agreement. Being an independent measurement, detection of superrefraction from deep radio occultation signals is complementary to its prediction by atmospheric models and thus should be useful for assimilation of radio occultation data in the atmospheric boundary layer.
Helping High-Achieving, Low-Income, Black Students Gain Admission Into America’s Elite Colleges: Considerations for School Counselors
Authors: Williams Joseph M. , Cholewa Blaire
Published: January 2024

The recent decision by the United States Supreme Court to limit affirmative action in college admissions could make it even more challenging for academically talented students of color to gain access to competitive schools. The importance of school counselors in guiding and supporting these students is now more crucial than ever. This qualitative study aimed to determine what school counselors need to know, do, and believe to help academically talented, Black students from low-income households gain admission into highly selective colleges and universities. Three broad themes and 10 subthemes emerged from the data analysis. The themes were (a) knowledge and awareness, (b) mindsets and beliefs, and (c) habits and practices. Implications for school counselor practice, training, and research are discussed.
Motivations of learners enrolled on a Massive Open Online Course – ‘The Science of Weight Loss: Dispelling diet myths’
Authors: Lim Wei Cong , Haslam Rebecca L. , Ashton Lee M. , Fenton Sasha , Collins Clare E.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) can engage large numbers of learners. Understanding motivations for enrolling and elements that engage learners may help meet learner needs. This study explored motivations, intentions, recruitment methods and course acceptability of learners enrolled in ‘The Science of Weight Loss: Dispelling diet myths’ (SWL101X) MOOC on EdX.

Design and setting:

Cross-sectional analysis included 29,666 learners from 180+ countries.

Methods:

Learners provided demographic data, while 8,454 learners provided optional pre-course data and 987 provided post-course data. The pre-course survey examined learners’ motivations and intentions and recruitment method, and the post-course survey examined acceptability of course content. Descriptive statistics were reported as frequencies and percentages or medians (interquartile range)/means (standard deviation).

Results:

Learners (61% women, 51% aged between 25 and 44 years) enrolled in the MOOCs mainly to increase their nutrition knowledge (46%) and/or lose weight (62%). Most (61%) were recruited through EdX platforms (website, newsletters and blog). Course components were well received by the majority who completed the post-course survey.

Conclusion:

The SWL101X MOOC successfully delivered nutrition education. Future courses could consider trialling the text, videos and interactive features to further engage learners. Short, informal ‘talking head’ video content may facilitate engagement. Future courses should also ensure the inclusion of the most recent dietary practices for health, and the management of obesity as a chronic disease, as some of the content used in the course in this study does not represent current and/or best practice. The greater use of social media may enhance learner enrolment.
Gender differences in barriers to physical exercise among university students studying physical activity and sports sciences
Authors: Martínez-Sánchez Sofía M , Martínez-Sánchez Laura M , Martínez-García Concha
Published: January 2024

Objective:

Research suggests that women experience more barriers to physical exercise than men do. Advocating for increased physical exercise is a primary responsibility of professionals who have specialised in the field of physical activity and sports sciences. This study aimed to examine differences in barriers to the practise of physical exercise, and the general state of mental health, among university students of physical activity and sports sciences based on gender.

Design:

A cross-sectional analysis of 144 students attending physical activity and sports sciences courses.

Setting:

Participants were recruited from a university in Spain.

Method:

This study used the validated Spanish versions of the Self-Report of Barriers to the Practice of Physical Exercise questionnaire and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire.

Results:

Based on the total Self-Report of Barriers to the Practice of Physical Exercise questionnaire and total 12-item General Health Questionnaire scores, female students reported significantly higher barriers and significantly poorer mental health than male students did. A weak positive correlation was observed between the total Self-Report of Barriers to the Practice of Physical Exercise questionnaire and 12-item General Health Questionnaire scores.

Conclusion:

Among university students who studied physical activity and sports sciences, women perceive greater barriers to physical exercise than men did, even though both groups had an inherent interest in exercise. A perception of greater barriers to engaging in physical exercise was associated with a negative impact on overall mental health, suggesting the need to address these barriers in future research on students of physical activity and sports sciences.
Experimental investigations of the fire behavior of composites impacted by kerosene/air turbulent flame
Authors: Ogabi R , Manescau B , Chetehouna K
Published: January 2024

In this research, we conducted an experimental analysis of a Kerosene/air burner designed according to the FAA's proposed ISO 2685 standard. The burner serves as a vital tool for generating flames and burnt gases, simulating real-world conditions relevant to fire safety studies. The core objective of this study was to comprehensively characterize the burner's behavior. Through a series of experiments, we investigated the influence of the equivalence ratio on several key parameters, including the spatial distribution of gas temperature (monitored using thermocouples), heat flux (measured with heat flux gauges), and the composition of gas emission species. Notably, our findings revealed a significant correlation between the equivalence ratio and these parameters. Specifically, we observed that as the equivalence ratio increased, so did the flame temperature, heat flux, and heat release rate. This increase continued until a critical equivalence ratio value of 1.03 was reached, resulting in a flame temperature of 1101.5°C and a heat flux of 140 kW/m2. Furthermore, our study encompassed a pyrolysis test on various composite materials, including Carbon-phenolic, Carbon-BMI, and Carbon-PEKK. The comparative analysis of these materials highlighted the superiority of Carbon-PEKK, which exhibited the lowest mass loss, the highest back-face temperature without experiencing significant material delamination, and the lowest concentration of gas emission species. Importantly, our investigation also delved into the influence of the equivalence ratio on the flow's turbulence characteristics, a critical factor in comprehending the burner's performance and its interactions with materials in the context of fire safety scenarios. These findings contribute to a better understanding of combustion dynamics, which is invaluable for enhancing fire safety measures and developing more efficient flame-generating systems.
Psychosocial and Environmental Correlates of Physical Activity in Korean Adults
Authors: Lee Jonghwa , An Dojin , Singnoy Chatkamon , Kim Youngho
Published: January 2024

Using hypothesized structural equation modeling, we investigated contributions to physical activity (PA) from psychological, social, and environmental variables. Participants were 768 adults aged 30 years or older (men = 353, women = 415; Mage = 42.51, SD = 10.21 years) living in Jungrang-gu, Seoul. To assess psychological, social, and environmental variables, respondents completed scales measuring self-efficacy, decisional balance, social support, physical environment, and leisure time exercise. We found that psychological, social, and environmental variables had a statistically significant effect on PA, with psychological variables mediating the effects of social and physical environmental variables on PA. These findings lend support to the assumed internal and external validity of the social ecological model (SEM) as an explanation for PA.