bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modic changes in patients with lumbar disc herniation followed more than 1 year after lumbar discectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Feng Xiangyu , Nian Sunqi , Chen Jiayu , Li Na , Duan Pingguo
Published: August 2024

Background

Modic changes (MCs) are identified as an independent risk factor for low back pain. Different subtypes of MCs vary in their impact on postoperative pain relief. However, consensus on the transformation of postoperative MC fractions in patients with distinct MC subtypes is lacking.

Methods

This comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis searched English-language articles in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases until January 2024. Studies included focused on patients transitioning between various microcrack subtypes post-discectomy. The primary outcome measure was the transformation between different postoperative microcrack fractions.

Results

Eight studies with 689 participants were analyzed. Overall, there is moderate to high-quality evidence indicating differences in the incidence of MC conversion across MC subtypes. The overall incidence of MC conversion was 27.7%, with rates of 37.0%, 20.5%, and 19.1% for MC0, MC1, and MC2 subtypes, respectively. Thus, postoperative MC type transformation, particularly from preoperative MC0 to MC1 (17.7%) or MC2 (13.1%), was more common, with MC1 transformation being predominant. Patients with preoperative comorbid MC1 types (19.0%) exhibited more postoperative transitions than those with MC2 types (12.4%).

Conclusion

This study underscores the significance of analyzing post-discectomy MCs in patients with lumbar disc herniation, revealing a higher incidence of MCs post-lumbar discectomy, particularly from preoperative absence of MC to MC1 or MC2. Preoperative MC0 types were more likely to undergo postoperative MC transformation than combined MC1 or MC2 types. These findings are crucial for enhancing surgical outcomes and postoperative care.
Assessment and phenotypic identification of millet germplasm (Setaria italica L.) in Liaoning, China
Authors: Li Xintong , He Weifeng , Wang Honghao , Xu Min
Published: August 2024

Aims

This study evaluated millet germplasms in Liaoning Province to support the collection, preservation and innovation of millet germplasm resources.

Methods

The study was conducted from 2018 to 2020, involved the selection of 105 millet germplasm resources from the Germplasm Bank of the Liaoning Academy of Agricultural Sciences (LAAS), the observation and recording of 31 traits, and the application of multivariate analysis methods to assess phenotypic diversity.

Results

From the diversity analysis and correlation analysis, it was found that the tested traits had abundant diversity and complex correlations among them. Principal component analysis (PCA) comprehensively analyzed all quantitative traits and extracted seven principal components. Grey relational analysis (GRA) highlighted the varied contributions of different traits to yield. Through systematic cluster analysis (SCA), the resources were categorized into six groups at Euclidean distance of 17.09. K-mean cluster analysis determined the distribution interval and central value of each trait, then identified resources with desirable traits.

Conclusion

The results revealed resources that possess characteristics such as upthrow seedling leaves, more tillers and branches, larger and well-formed ears, and lodging resistance prefer to higher grain yield. It was also discovered that the subear internode length (SIL) could be an indicator for maturity selection. Four specific resources, namely, Dungu No. 1, Xiao-li-xiang, Basen Shengu, and Yuhuanggu No. 1, were identified for further breeding and practical applications.
Estimativa de biomassa e estoque de carbono da floresta amazônica do Estado do Pará
Authors: Machado Gilmara de Oliveira , Brancalion Pedro Henrique Santin , Fernandes Amanda Augusta
Published: August 2024

A distribuição e o armazenamento de carbono nos ecossistemas florestais amazônicos desempenham um papel crucial, especialmente considerando seu impacto nas mudanças climáticas globais. No entanto, o equilíbrio ambiental do bioma amazônico é influenciado por uma interação complexa de padrões e processos. Esta pesquisa tem por objetivo quantificar o estoque de carbono da parte aérea das árvores e sua energia armazenada. Realizou-se essa estimativa por meio da base de dados das paisagens sustentáveis, para a floresta da cidade de São Felix do Xingu, estado do Pará onde foi determinado a biomassa da parte aérea da árvore e sua energia armazenada. Os resultados indicam uma alta variabilidade média nas métricas de biomassa (1.18 Mg), carbono (2.15 t), volume de CO₂ (1087.66 Nm3) e energia térmica (21665.11 GJ) da parte aérea das árvores, refletindo a complexidade e diversidade da floresta amazônica. Este estudo ressalta a necessidade contínua de pesquisa e monitoramento para aprimorar nossa compreensão dos sistemas florestais do bioma amazônico e garantir sua resiliência a longo prazo.
Impacto da pandemia de COVID 19 na saúde mental de trabalhadores de enfermagem
Authors: Kantorski Luciane Prado , Alves Poliana Farias , Franzmann Uiasser Thomas , Galarça Ana Maria Silveira dos Santos , Lima Marcia Leão de , Neutzling Isadora Oliveira , Santos Tais Rodrigues dos
Published: August 2024

O presente estudo tem como objetivo investigar a prevalência de depressão, transtornos psiquiátricos menores, ideação suicida e má qualidade do sono em trabalhadores de enfermagem e compreender os fatores que contribuíram para o seu sofrimento psíquico durante a pandemia de COVID-19.  Trata-se de um estudo misto, que consta de uma etapa quantitativa e outra qualitativa. Os dados foram coletados entre 2020 e 2021, com questionários online a 890 profissionais de enfermagem e 25 entrevistas com gestores, enfermeiros e técnicos de enfermagem. Os resultados apontam uma prevalência de depressão de 36,6%, de transtornos psiquiátricos menores de 43,9%, de ideação suicida de 7,4% e de má qualidade do sono de 68% entre os trabalhadores de enfermagem. Os dados qualitativos apontam como fatores principais que influenciaram na saúde mental destes trabalhadores a sobrecarga de trabalho e o medo.
Assessment and evolution of socio-environmental management of soybean farms participating in the Agro Plus program in Minas Gerais State, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Antônio Consentino Teixeira , Silva Jr. Aziz Galvão da
Published: August 2024

The Agro Plus program supports rural producers to comply with legislation and be prepared to meet demands of the international soybean market. This paper sought to analyze the current sustainability conditions of soybean farms in Minas Gerais based on the  program checklist. The assessment of property improvements was carried out using data from 70 farms evaluated twice between 2016 and 2020 by the Agro Plus. The correlation between the soybean area cultivated in the season 2021 (ha) and the score for each of the 19 themes assessed by program (in %) was calculated and the t test was applied to verify the significance of the correlations. The program has a positive impact on soybean farms in Minas Gerais and contributes significantly to the management of properties in terms of compliance with current legislation. It enabled improvements in all the topics evaluated, with emphasis on those that were most critical before the farm joined Agro Plus. However, some themes are not suitable for most farms. Risk management at work, employee training, waste management and empty packaging storage and PPE laundry facilities have the lowest averages. Focusing on their indicators on second visits, distributing specific teaching materials and organizing courses on the subject seem interesting alternatives for Agro Plus to promote greater development on farms. There are significant correlations between the size of properties and socio-environmental issues, mainly related to labor issues and waste management on the property.
Benchmarking the initiatives of ESG research leaders
Authors: Giupponi Élen Cristina Bravos , Poltronieri Camila Fabrício , Oliveira Otávio José de
Published: August 2024

The term "Environmental, Social, and Governance" (ESG) has become fundamental for companies seeking to align their operations with a positive and sustainable impact. However, the spread of ESG is not equal worldwide. Therefore, the most advanced countries in ESG can be benchmarked for policies and practices that can accelerate the implementation of sustainable strategies in others. This work aims to identify ESG initiatives in the three countries with the highest h-Index (China, the United States, and Italy) that contribute to Sustainable Development (SD), investigating their articles, authors, and universities. For this purpose, Scopus was used to survey the h-Index and other data, combining a Bibliographic Study of the articles with Secondary Data Analysis of other papers. The progress made by these countries in expanding and strengthening ESG practices is significant and diverse. Together, they are shaping the global ESG landscape, driving more sustainable corporate practices. The results of this work shed light on the studies carried out in these nations, showing the advancement of ESG driven by financial markets, their contributions to SD, and the relevant role of universities in this regard.
Identification of Agroforestry Systems and Socio-Economic Status of Farmers in Rural Areas of Jogindernagar in Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Sharma Som Dutt , Sharma Ananya , Dhaka Ravindra Kumar , Kaler Navjot Singh , Thakur Naresh
Published: August 2024

The present study was carried out in rural areas of Jogindernagar in Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh with the aim of identifying the agroforestry systems and assessing the demographic features and socio-economic status of farmers. The methodology followed for the present study in order to site selection, sampling procedure, identification of agroforestry systems, data collection, an analytical framework and valuation. The study site was selected by multistage random sampling technique. The study revealed that there are six agroforestry systems viz., agrisilviculture, agri-silvi-horticulture, agri-horticulture, agri-silvipastoral, pastoral-silviculture and pastoral-horticulture which prevails among different categories of farmers. In the medium and small categories of farmers, all the six agroforestry systems were present, while in the marginal category of farmers, the agri-silvipastoral system was absent. The average family size of the sampled households was 5.59 individuals per family. The highest sex ratio was observed in marginal farmers (990) and the lowest in medium farmer category (834). The literacy rate was recorded at its highest (91.70) in the marginal category of farmers. Most of the women were employed in the agroforestry and their livelihood depends on the farm’s income. The highest percentage of local breeds of cows was found in the all three categories of farmers. Overall, average land holding was recorded at 3.07 hectares in all sampled categories of farmers. The average land holding area was found to be maximum (1.58 ha) in medium, followed by small (1.01 ha) and marginal (0.48 ha) categories. Thus, small scale agroforestry viz., Agri-silvi-horticulture system in the subtropical region of Himachal Pradesh is recommended for social, economical and environmental benefits to the rural population for their livelihood and food security in the climate change era.
Banana Supply Chain in Navi Mumbai, India
Authors: Karamshibhai Chavda Vimal , Vahoniya Dilip Rasiklal , Rajwadi Alvira
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the banana supply chain in Navi Mumbai, aiming to identify existing supply channels, analyze their efficiency, problems faced by producers and anayse the market potential of banana in the study area. Primary data were collected from respondents to accomplish these objectives. Secondary data were obtained from private and government publications, and review papers. Utilizing a descriptive research design and employing a probability sampling method, the study surveyed 50 farmers, 5 village traders, 5 pre-harvest contractors, 10 wholesalers cum commission agents, and 10 retailers using a semi-structured schedule. Three marketing channels were identified. Among them channel-III (Farmer - Wholesaler cum commission agent - Retailer - Consumer) was the most efficient option, offering the highest producer's share in the consumer's rupee (40.05%) and the highest marketing efficiency (0.67), with a price spread of Rs. 1711.55 per quintal. In the study area, banana producers face challenges such as high input costs, delayed availability of planting materials, and losses due to diseases and pests. Marketing hurdles include lower prices, distant selling unit locations, delayed payments, and inadequate transportation and storage facilities. Village traders, preharvest contractors, wholesalers cum commission agents, and retailers also encounter various obstacles such as price fluctuation, handling and transportation losses, low-quality produce, and labour shortages. As the total market demand for banana in Navi Mumbai was estimated to be ₹62.26 crore, addressing these challenges is vital for enhancing the efficiency and profitability of banana marketing in the study area, necessitating coordinated efforts from policymakers, agricultural stakeholders, and market participants. Establishing FPOs and FPCs can ease access to affordable planting materials and address marketing challenges, benefiting all banana market stakeholders.
Design of Internal Supervision Model for Educational Fund Management at the First-Level Middle School in Mamuju Regency
Authors: Muhtar  , Tolla Ismail , Faridah
Published: August 2024

This study is a Research and Development (R&D) study developed by Borg and Gall, aiming to design a model for Internal Supervision in Educational Fund Management at the First-Level Middle School (SMP) in Mamuju Regency. The aspects discussed are the consulting aspect with indicators of socialization of School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds and community complaint services. The internal control system aspect of educational units (SPISP) with indicators of planning, process, and evaluation. The assurance aspect with indicators of review and audit. The research location is all SMPs in Mamuju Regency, consisting of 65 schools, and 30 school principals were selected as respondents. The research data was obtained by providing instruments/ questionnaires through focus group discussions (FGD) with the SMP School Committee, with emphasis on the pre-test and post-test processes. The data analysis technique used is descriptive quantitative and qualitative statistics, as well as N-Gain increase analysis, which shows that the effectiveness of this model design is quite effective with a value of 0.7.
Characterization of Heavy Metal and Physico-chemical Profiling of Sewage Water Soil in Jaipur District, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Sharma Surykant , Hasan Amreen , Choudhary Siddharth , Kumar Pramod , Salvi Kartik
Published: August 2024

Jaipur is the capital state of Rajasthan. During the year 2021, District Jaipur of 3 blocks (Chomu, Sanganer, and Shahpura) in 9 villages [Keshav Nagar (V1), Morija (V2), Nindola (V3), Goner (V4), Shrikishanpura (V5), Durgapura (V6), Shivpuri (V7), Manoharpur (V8), Nwalpura (V9)] were selected for estimation of physico-chemical properties and Heavy metal contamination in severage channels. A total of 9 samples were collected from 9 villages sewerage channels. This study aimed to analyze the physico-chemical properties of agricultural soil and irrigation water in three blocks of Jaipur, Rajasthan. The findings revealed significant variations in the physico-chemical properties of the agricultural soil and water in Chomu, Sanganer, and Shahpura. Standard methods were employed to assess the physico-chemical characteristics of soil samples contaminated with sewerage effluents in these regions, which exhibited considerable diversity. The pH levels of the soil samples were predominantly slightly acidic and alkaline ranging from 6.22 to 7.31. Electrical conductivity values varied between 0.41 to 0.62 mmhos/cm. The percentages of organic matter and organic carbon in the soil samples ranged from 0.17% to 0.25% and 0.29% to 0.43%, respectively. Additionally, the analysis included heavy metals such as zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), and copper (Cu). The soil samples were found to contain elevated levels of heavy metals, surpassing the permissible limits. The discharge of sewerage effluent into the environment, primarily originating from the textile industry, house, etc. constitutes are major source of pollution that can adversely impact the local flora and fauna. Therefore, it is imperative to implement effluent treatment measures before their release into the environment.
Estimates of the Fugacity of CO2 in the Vridi Channel (Côte d’Ivoire)
Authors: Koffi Kouakou Urbain , Yao Marcel Konan , Touré Raoul Pêlèmayo , Ouffoué Koffi Sebastien
Published: August 2024

From July to November 2023 and in April 2024, surface waters were collected at three separate sampling sites within the Vridi channel, to measure physical and chemical parameters such as salinity, temperature, pH, Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC). The fCO2 and Total Alkalinity were calculated from pH and DIC. These surface waters were sampling during 4 seasons to study the variability of the carbonate system parameters. Low salinity and low temperature were observed in July -August because this period corresponded to high precipitation inducing salinity dilution and the appearance of coastal upwelling. High salinity and temperature were observed in a great dry season. In the whole, salinity and temperature have same trends of variability. Whatever the season, surface waters were oversaturated in fCO2 with respect to atmospheric equilibrium in the Vridi channel except in dry season. On average the fCO2 decreased from the great cold season to the hot season following marine season. Indeed, the high coastal upwelling appeared in July and disappeared in October. The variability of the channel fCO2 followed the upwelling events along the coastal areas. Moreover, parameters such as Total Alkalinity (TA), Dissolved Inorganic Carbon and pH undergone the influence of coastal upwelling as fCO2 in the Vridi channel.
Immunogenic Proteins Characterization in the Larvae of Oestrus ovis by Western Blot Analysis
Authors: Kiran A. Vamshi , Murthy G.S. Sreenivasa , Kumar M. Udaya , Kalyani P.
Published: August 2024

The present study was undertaken to characterize and identify immunogenic proteins of Oestrus ovis in Telangana. Oestrus ovis is the most predominant nasal bot fly causing nasal myiasis in India. The collected larvae from Jiyaguda slaughter house, Hyderabad are seperated into L2 and L3 larvae were washed with normal saline and PBS pH 7.4 and preserved at -70°C for antigen preparation and some were preserved in 70 % ethanol for identification. The larvae were speciated by light microscopic examination based on morphological features such as ventral spines, anterior hooks and “D” shaped posterior spiracles. In this study, an antigen was prepared from second and third instar larvae of Oestrus ovis using a soluble buffer solution. The resulting Crude Somatic Larval (CSL) antigen had a protein concentration of 27.4 mg per ml. The CSL antigen was resolved in 8% SDS-PAGE, Immunoblotting was performed by electro transferring the separated polypeptides onto a nitrocellulose (NC) membrane. Treatment with specific reagents and antibodies resulted in the identification of 19 immunoreactive polypeptides, with molecular weights matching those observed in SDS-PAGE. Four polypeptides with molecular weights of 58.56, 20.74, 19.09, and 28.91 kDa exhibited the strongest reaction towards the antibodies raised against CSL antigen. These four polypeptides are considered promising candidates for future immunizations and testing their protective efficacy through in vivo assays. These findings have implications for advancing strategies to combat myiasis, a parasitic disease caused by Oestrus ovis larvae.
Umfrage zur Attraktivität privater Schiedsgerichte im Vergleich zur staatlichen Gerichtsbarkeit
Authors: Lehnert Cornelia , Wohlrab Julia , Schäfer Peter
Published: August 2024

Anlass des Beitrags war die Frage, ob private Schiedsgerichte tatsächlich ihrem Ruf genügen, eine kostengünstige, schnelle, kompetente und vertrauliche Alternative zur staatlichen Gerichtsbarkeit zu bieten. Der Aufsatz schildert die Antworten von 30 deutschen Wirtschaftskanzleien auf sechs Fragen in einem 2023 versandten Fragebogen. Im Ergebnis haben zwei Drittel der Befragten die hohe Attraktivität der Schiedsgerichte weitgehend bestätigt. Einzelne Stimmen monierten jedoch die hohen Verfahrenskosten, die mangelnde Unabhängigkeit der Richter/innen und die fehlende Überprüfung durch höhere Instanzen.
Climatology of long‐range transported Asian dust along the West Coast of the United States
Authors: Creamean Jessie M. , Spackman J. Ryan , Davis Sean M. , White Allen B.
Published: October 2014

The contribution of trans‐Pacific dust estimated from satellite observations has been shown to be 3 times greater than domestic dust in North America throughout the year. Thus, a quantitative understanding of the frequency and locations where Asian dust is transported is necessary to improve global dust modeling for weather and climate predictions. This work presents a 10 year record (2002–2011) of dust along the U.S. West Coast estimated from the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments network in an effort to characterize the seasonal cycle and interannual variability of Asian dust transport. In addition, observations of dust exported from East Asia were analyzed along with air mass trajectories and satellite and ground‐based precipitation data to investigate seasonal variability of Asian dust transport. On average, Asian dust concentrations (0.08–0.60 µg m−3) from ground‐based observations were 1.7 times those of local dust (0.00–0.53 µg m−3) and 23% (up to 44%) of fine particulate matter (particles with diameters ≤ 2.5 micrometers, or PM2.5) mass concentrations at high elevations in the spring. The maximum in springtime Asian dust on the U.S. West Coast was attributed to higher source concentrations (10.98–36.27 µg m−3) and reduced potential for wet removal over the Pacific Ocean and U.S. West Coast. Although trans‐Pacific transport was more favorable during the winter, minimum concentrations of Asian dust were observed on the U.S. West Coast (0.11 µg m−3) due to a lower source influence and higher potential for wet removal during transport. Multiobservational approaches such as these should be taken into account when modeling transport of Asian dust to the western U.S.
Lunar influence on equatorial atmospheric angular momentum
Authors: Bizouard Christian , Zotov Leonid , Sidorenkov Nikolay
Published: October 2014

This study investigates the relationship between the equatorial atmospheric angular momentum oscillation in the nonrotating frame and the quasi‐diurnal lunar tidal potential. Between 2 and 30 days, the corresponding equatorial component, called Celestial Atmospheric Angular Momentum (CEAM), is mostly constituted of prograde circular motions, especially of a harmonic at 13.66 days, a sidelobe at 13.63 days, and of a weekly broadband variation. A simple equilibrium tide model explains the 13.66 day pressure term as a result of the O1 lunar tide. The powerful episodic fluctuations between 5 and 8 days possibly reflect an atmospheric normal mode excited by the tidal waves Q1 (6.86 days) and σ1 (7.095 days). The lunar tidal influence on the spectral band from 2 to 30 days is confirmed by two specific features, not occurring for seasonal band dominated by the solar thermal effect. First, Northern and Southern Hemispheres contribute equally and synchronously to the CEAM wind term. Second, the pressure and wind terms are proportional, which follows from angular momentum budget considerations where the topographic and friction torques on the solid Earth are much smaller than the one resulting from the equatorial bulge. Such a configuration is expected for the case of tidally induced circulation, where the surface pressure variation is tesseral and cannot contribute to the topographic torque, and tidal winds blow only at high altitudes. The likely effects of the lunar‐driven atmospheric circulation on Earth's nutation are estimated and discussed in light of the present‐day capabilities of space geodetic techniques.
The gravity field, orientation, and ephemeris of Mercury from MESSENGER observations after three years in orbit
Authors: Mazarico Erwan , Genova Antonio , Goossens Sander , Lemoine Frank G. , Neumann Gregory A. , Zuber Maria T. , Smith David E. , Solomon Sean C.
Published: October 2014

We have analyzed 3 years of radio tracking data from the MESSENGER spacecraft in orbit around Mercury and determined the gravity field, planetary orientation, and ephemeris of the innermost planet. With improvements in spatial coverage, force modeling, and data weighting, we refined an earlier global gravity field both in quality and resolution, and we present here a spherical harmonic solution to degree and order 50. In this field, termed HgM005, uncertainties in low‐degree coefficients are reduced by an order of magnitude relative to earlier global fields, and we obtained a preliminary value of the tidal Love number k2 of 0.451 ± 0.014. We also estimated Mercury's pole position, and we obtained an obliquity value of 2.06 ± 0.16 arcmin, in good agreement with analysis of Earth‐based radar observations. From our updated rotation period (58.646146 ± 0.000011 days) and Mercury ephemeris, we verified experimentally the planet's 3:2 spin‐orbit resonance to greater accuracy than previously possible. We present a detailed analysis of the HgM005 covariance matrix, and we describe some near‐circular frozen orbits around Mercury that could be advantageous for future exploration.
Multiscale bed form interactions and their implications for the abruptness and stability of the downwind dune field margin at White Sands, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Pelletier Jon D. , Jerolmack Douglas J.
Published: October 2014

The downwind margin of White Sands dune field is an abrupt transition from mobile aeolian dunes to a dune‐free vegetated surface. This margin is also relatively stable; over the past 60 years it has migrated several times more slowly than the slowest dunes within the dune field, resulting in a zone of dune coalescence, aggradation, and, along most of the margin, development of a dune complex (i.e., dunes superimposed on draas). Repeat terrestrial laser scanning surveys conducted over a 3 month period demonstrate that sediment fluxes within the dune complex decrease on approach to the margin. Computational fluid dynamics modeling indicates that this decrease is due, in part, to a decrease in mean turbulent bed shear stress on the lee side of the dune complex as a result of flow line divergence or sheltering of the lee‐side dunes by the stoss side of the dune complex. Conservation of mass demands that this decrease in bed shear stress causes aggradation. We speculate that aggradation on the lee side of the dune complex further enhances the sheltering effect in a positive feedback, contributing to the growth and/or maintenance of the dune complex and a relatively abrupt and stable dune field margin. Our model and data add to a growing body of evidence that aeolian dune field patterns are influenced by feedbacks that occur at scales larger than individual dunes.
An allometric scaling relationship in the brain of preterm infants
Authors: Paul Rachel A. , Smyser Christopher D. , Rogers Cynthia E. , English Ian , Wallendorf Michael , Alexopoulos Dimitrios , Meyer Erin J. , Van Essen David C. , Neil Jeffrey J. , Inder Terrie E.
Published: October 2014

Allometry has been used to demonstrate a power–law scaling relationship in the brain of premature born infants. Forty‐nine preterm infants underwent neonatal MRI scans and neurodevelopmental testing at age 2 . Measures of cortical surface area and total cerebral volume demonstrated a power–law scaling relationship (α = 1.27). No associations were identified between these measures and investigated clinical variables. Term equivalent cortical surface area and total cerebral volume measures and scaling exponents were not related to outcome. These findings confirm a previously reported allometric scaling relationship in the preterm brain, and suggest that scaling is not a sensitive indicator of aberrant cortical maturation.
Disease‐Modifying Antirheumatic Drug Use and the Risk of Incident Hyperlipidemia in Patients With Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Desai Rishi J. , Eddings Wesley , Liao Katherine P. , Solomon Daniel H. , Kim Seoyoung C.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To compare the risk of incident hyperlipidemia in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients after initiation of various disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Methods

We conducted a cohort study using insurance claims data (2001–2012) in early RA patients. Early RA was defined by the absence of any RA diagnosis or DMARD prescriptions for 12 months. Four mutually exclusive groups were defined based on DMARD initiation: tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) inhibitors ± nonbiologic (nb) DMARDs, methotrexate (MTX) ± nonhydroxycholorquine nbDMARDs, hydroxychloroquine ± non‐MTX nbDMARDs, and other nbDMARDs only. The primary outcome was incident hyperlipidemia, defined by a diagnosis and a prescription for a lipid‐lowering agent. For the subgroup of patients with laboratory results available, change in lipid levels was assessed. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models and propensity score (PS) decile stratification with asymmetric trimming were used to control for confounding.

Results

Of the 17,145 early RA patients included in the study, 364 developed incident hyperlipidemia. The adjusted hazard ratios (HRs; 95% confidence intervals [95% CIs]) for hyperlipidemia were 1.41 (95% CI 0.99, 2.00) for TNFα inhibitors, 0.81 (95% CI 0.63, 1.04) for hydroxychloroquine, and 1.33 (95% CI 0.95, 1.84) for other nbDMARDs compared with MTX in the full cohort, while HRs for the PS trimmed cohort were 1.18 (95% CI 0.80, 1.73), 0.75 (95% CI 0.58, 0.98), and 1.41 (95% CI 1.01, 1.98), respectively. In the subgroup analysis, hydroxychloroquine use showed significant reduction in low‐density lipoprotein (−8.9 mg/dl, 95% CI −15.8, −2.0), total cholesterol (−12.3 mg/dl, 95% CI −19.8, −4.8) and triglyceride levels (−19.5 mg/dl, 95% CI −38.7, −0.3) from baseline compared with MTX.

Conclusion

Use of hydroxychloroquine may be associated with a lower risk of hyperlipidemia among early RA patients.
Relationship Between Isometric Thigh Muscle Strength and Minimum Clinically Important Differences in Knee Function in Osteoarthritis: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Ruhdorfer Anja , Wirth Wolfgang , Eckstein Felix
Published: October 2014

Objective

To determine the relationship between thigh muscle strength and clinically relevant differences in self‐assessed lower leg function.

Methods

Isometric knee extensor and flexor strength of 4,553 Osteoarthritis Initiative participants (2,651 women and 1,902 men) was related to the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) physical function scores by linear regression. Further, groups of male and female participant strata with minimum clinically important differences (MCIDs) in WOMAC function scores (6 of 68 units) were compared across the full range of observed values and to participants without functional deficits (WOMAC score 0). The effect of WOMAC knee pain and body mass index on the above relationships was explored using stepwise regression.

Results

Per regression equations, a 3.7% reduction in extensor strength and a 4.0% reduction in flexor strength were associated with an MCID in WOMAC function in women, and, respectively, a 3.6% and 4.8% reduction in men. For strength divided by body weight, reductions were 5.2% and 6.7%, respectively, in women and 5.8% and 6.7%, respectively, in men. Comparing MCID strata across the full observed range of WOMAC function confirmed the above estimates and did not suggest nonlinear relationships across the spectrum of observed values. WOMAC pain correlated strongly with WOMAC function, but extensor (and flexor) muscle strength contributed significant independent information.

Conclusion

Reductions of approximately 4% in isometric muscle strength and of 6% in strength per body weight were related to a clinically relevant difference in WOMAC functional disability. Longitudinal studies will need to confirm these relationships within persons. Muscle extensor (and flexor) strength (per body weight) provided significant independent information in addition to pain in explaining variability in lower leg function.
Relationship Between Disease Characteristics and Orofacial Manifestations in Systemic Sclerosis: Canadian Systemic Sclerosis Oral Health Study III
Authors: Baron Murray , Hudson Marie , Tatibouet Solène , Steele Russell , Lo Ernest , Gravel Sabrina , Gyger Geneviève , el Sayegh Tarek , Pope Janet , Fontaine Audrey , Masetto Ariel , Matthews Debora , Sutton Evelyn , Thie Norman , Jones Niall , Copete Maria , Kolbinson Dean , Markland Janet , Nogueira Getulio , Robinson David , Fritzler Marvin , Gornitsky Mervyn
Published: October 2014

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma) is associated with decreased saliva production and interincisal distance, more missing teeth, and periodontal disease. We undertook this study to determine the clinical correlates of SSc with these oral abnormalities.

Methods

Subjects were recruited from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group cohort. Detailed dental and clinical examinations were performed according to standardized protocols. Associations between dental abnormalities and selected clinical and serologic manifestations of SSc were examined.

Results

One hundred sixty‐three SSc subjects were included: 90% women, mean ± SD age 56 ± 11 years, mean ± SD disease duration 14 ± 8 years, 72% with limited cutaneous disease, and 28% with diffuse cutaneous disease. Decreased saliva production was associated with Sjögren's syndrome–related autoantibodies (β = −43.32; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] −80.89, −5.75), but not with disease severity (β = −2.51; 95% CI −8.75, 3.73). Decreased interincisal distance was related to disease severity (β = −1.02; 95% CI −1.63, −0.42) and the modified Rodnan skin thickness score (β = −0.38; 95% CI −0.53, −0.23). The number of missing teeth was associated with decreased saliva production (relative risk [RR] 0.97; 95% CI 0.94, 0.99), worse hand function (RR 1.52; 95% CI 1.13, 2.02), and the presence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD; RR 1.68 [95% CI 1.14, 2.46]). No clinical or serologic variables were correlated with periodontal disease.

Conclusion

In SSc, diminished interincisal distance is related to overall disease severity. Decreased saliva production is related to concomitant Sjögren's syndrome antibodies. Tooth loss is associated with poor upper extremity function, GERD, and decreased saliva. The etiology of excess periodontal disease is likely multifactorial and remains unclear.
Economic and Comorbidity Burden Among Moderate‐to‐Severe Psoriasis Patients with Comorbid Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Feldman Steven R. , Zhao Yang , Shi Lizheng , Tran Mary Helen , Lu Jackie
Published: October 2014

Objective

To compare the prevalence of comorbidities, health care utilization, and costs between moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis (PsO) patients with comorbid psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and matched controls.

Methods

Adults ages 18–64 years with concomitant diagnoses of PsO and PsA (PsO+PsA) were identified in the OptumHealth Reporting and Insights claims database between January 2007 and March 2012. Moderate‐to‐severe PsO was defined based on the use of at least one systemic or phototherapy during the 12‐month study period after the index date (randomly selected date after the first PsO diagnosis). Control patients without PsO and PsA were demographically matched 1:1 with PsO+PsA patients. Multivariate regressions were employed to examine PsO/PsA‐related comorbidities, medications, health care utilization, and costs between PsO+PsA patients and controls, adjusting for demographics, index year, insurance type, and non–PsO/PsA‐related comorbidities.

Results

Among 1,230 matched pairs of PsO+PsA patients and controls, PsO+PsA patients had significantly more PsO/PsA‐related comorbidities, with the top 3 most common in both groups being hypertension (35.8% versus 23.5%), hyperlipidemia (34.6% versus 28.5%), and diabetes mellitus (15.9% versus 10.0%). Compared with controls, PsO+PsA patients had a higher number of distinct prescriptions filled (incidence rate ratio 2.3, P < 0.05); were more likely to have inpatient admissions (odds ratio [OR] 1.6), emergency room visits (OR 1.3), and outpatient visits (OR 62.7) (all P < 0.05); and incurred significantly higher total, pharmacy, and medical costs (adjusted annual cost differences per patient $23,160, $17,696, and $5,077, respectively; all P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Compared with matched PsO‐ and PsA‐free controls, moderate‐to‐severe PsO patients with comorbid PsA had higher comorbidity and health care utilization and costs.
Contralateral Knee Effect on Self‐Reported Knee‐Specific Function and Global Functional Assessment: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Cotofana Sebastian , Wirth Wolfgang , Pena Rossi Claudia , Eckstein Felix , Günther Oliver H.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To analyze the effect of contralateral knee pain on sensitivity of patient‐reported outcomes and objectively measured functional performance tests in subjects with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Subjects with discordant knee pain status (i.e., 1 knee being painful [≥4 on a numeric pain rating scale (NPRS)], with the contralateral knee being pain free [NPRS 0]) were selected from the Osteoarthritis Initiative and matched to subjects with bilaterally pain‐free and painful knees by age, sex, body mass index, and radiographic knee OA. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) physical function score, the global Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), and objective functional performance tests were cross‐sectionally compared in a matched case–control design.

Results

A total of 378 subjects with discordant knee pain status were matched to 359 controls with bilaterally pain‐free knees and to 323 controls with bilaterally painful knees. WOMAC scores in pain‐free knees of discordant knee pain cases significantly differed compared to scores of bilaterally pain‐free knees (P = 0.003). Likewise, scores in painful knees of discordant knee pain cases significantly differed compared to scores of bilaterally painful knees (P < 0.001). PASE levels between these groups were not significantly different (P > 0.68). Functional performance tests differed in subjects with discordant knee pain compared to subjects with bilaterally pain‐free knees and when compared to subjects with bilaterally painful knees, with the chair stand test showing the strongest effect size (standardized response mean 0.28 and 0.33, respectively).

Conclusion

The WOMAC physical function score, although knee specific, is impacted by the contralateral knee pain status. The repeated chair stand test appears to be the most sensitive assessment in differentiation between groups with different status of knee pain.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is Associated With Higher Ninety‐Day Hospital Readmission Rates Compared to Osteoarthritis After Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: A Cohort Study
Authors: Singh Jasvinder A. , Inacio Maria C. S. , Namba Robert S. , Paxton Elizabeth W.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To examine whether an underlying diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA) impacts the 90‐day readmission rates after total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

We analyzed prospectively collected data from an integrated health care system, Total Joint Replacement Registry, of adults with RA or OA undergoing unilateral primary THA or TKA during 2009–2011. Adjusted logistic regression models for 90‐day readmission were fit. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated. Study year was an effect modifier for the outcome; therefore separate analyses were conducted for each of the 3 study years.

Results

Of the 34,311 patients, 496 had RA and 33,815 had OA. Comparisons of RA and OA patients, respectively, were 73% and 61% women, 45% and 70% white, and patients had a mean age of 61 versus 67 years (P < 0.001). Crude 90‐day readmission rates for RA and OA were 8.5% and 6.7%, respectively. The adjusted odds of 90‐day readmission increased from year to year for RA compared to OA patients, from 0.89 (95% CI 0.46–1.71) in 2009 to 1.34 (95% CI 0.69–2.61) in 2010, and to 1.74 (95% CI 1.16–2.60) in 2011. The 2 most common readmission reasons were joint prosthesis infection (10.2%) and septicemia (10.2%) in RA and joint prosthesis infection (5.7%) and other postoperative infection (5.1%) in OA.

Conclusion

RA is a risk factor for 90‐day readmission after primary THA or TKA. An increasing risk of readmissions noted in RA in 2011 is concerning and indicates that further studies should examine the reasons for this increasing trend.
Voltage‐Controlled Nonstoichiometry in Oxide Thin Films: Pr0.1Ce0.9O2−δ Case Study
Authors: Chen Di , Tuller Harry L.
Published: October 2014

While the properties of functional oxide thin films often depend strongly on oxygen stoichiometry, there have been few means available for its control in a reliable and in situ fashion. This work describes the use of DC bias as a means of systematically controlling the stoichiometry of oxide thin films deposited onto yttria‐stabilized zirconia substrates. Impedance spectroscopy is performed on the electrochemical cell Pr0.1Ce0.9O2−δ (PCO)/YSZ/Ag for conditions: T = 550 to 700 °C, pO
2 = 10−4 to 1 atm, and ΔE = ‐100 to 100 mV. The DC bias ΔE is used to control the effective pO
2 or oxygen activity at the PCO/YSZ interface. The non‐stoichiometry (δ) of the PCO films is calculated from the measured chemical capacitance (Cchem
). These δ values, when plotted isothermally as a function of effective pO
2, established, either by the surrounding gas composition alone, or in combination with applied bias, agree well with each other and to predictions based on a previously determined defect model. These results confirm the suitability of using bias to precisely control δ of thin films in an in situ fashion and simultaneously monitor these changes by measurement of Cchem
. Of further interest is the ability to reach effective pO
2s as high as 280 atm.
Inferring demographic structure with moccasin size data from the Promontory Caves, Utah
Authors: Billinger Michael , Ives John W.
Published: October 2014

The moccasin assemblage Julian Steward recovered from the Promontory caves in 1930–31 provides a novel example in which material culture can be used to understand the structure of an AD thirteenth century population. Several studies shed light on the relationship between shoe size, foot size, and stature. We develop an anthropometric model for understanding the composition of the Promontory Cave population by using moccasin size as a proxy for foot size. We then predict the stature of the individual who would have worn a moccasin. Stature is closely related to age for children, subadults and adult males. Although there are predictable sex and age factors biasing moccasin discard practices, moccasin dimensions suggest a relatively large proportion of children and subadults occupied the Promontory caves. This bison and antelope hunting population appears to have thrived during its stay on Promontory Point. Am J Phys Anthropol 156:76–89, 2015 © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Direct Imaging of Light Emission Centers in Two‐Dimensional Crystals and Their Luminescence and Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Ida Shintaro , Koga Shota , Daio Takeshi , Hagiwara Hidehisa , Ishihara Tatsumi
Published: October 2014

To fully understand the fundamental properties of light‐energy‐converting materials, it is important to determine the local atomic configuration of photofunctional centers. In this study, direct imaging of one‐ and two‐Tb‐atom emission centers in a two‐dimensional Tb‐doped Ca2Ta3O10 nanocrystal was carried. The emission centers were located at the Ca sites in the perovskite structure, and no concentration‐based quenching was observed even when the emission centers were in close proximity to each other. The relative photoluminescence efficiency for green emission of the nanosheet suspension was 38.1 %. Furthermore, the Tb‐doped Ca2Ta3O10 nanocrystal deposited co‐catalyst showed high photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production from water (quantum efficiency: 71 % at 270 nm). Tb3+ dopants in the two‐dimensional crystal might have the potential to stabilize the charge separation state.
Design and Synthesis of Benzimidazole Analogs Endowed with Oxadiazole as Selective COX‐2 Inhibitor
Authors: Rathore Ankita , Rahman Mujeeb Ur , Siddiqui Anees Ahamad , Ali Abuzer , Shaharyar Mohammad
Published: October 2014

New molecules of benzimidazole endowed with oxadiazole were designed and synthesized from 2‐(2‐((pyrimidin‐2‐ylthio)methyl)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐1‐yl)acetohydrazide as 1‐((5‐substituted alkyl/aryl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)methyl)‐2‐((pyrimidin‐2‐ylthio)methyl)‐1H‐benzimidazoles (5a–r) with the aim to acquire selective cyclooxygenase (COX‐2) inhibitor activity. The synthesized compounds were screened by in vitro cyclooxygenase assays to determine COX‐1 and COX‐2 inhibitory potency and the results showed that they had good‐to‐remarkable activity with an IC50 range of 11.6–56.1 µM. The most active compounds were further screened for their in vivo anti‐inflammatory activity by using the carrageenan‐induced rat paw edema model. In vitro anticancer activities of the hybrid compounds were assessed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), USA, against 60 human cell lines, and the results showed a good spectrum. Compound 5l exhibited significant COX‐2 inhibition with an IC50 value of 8.2 µM and a percent protection of 68.4%. Compound 5b evinced moderate cytotoxicity toward the UO‐31 cell line of renal cancer. A docking study was performed using Maestro 9.0, to provide the binding mode into the binding sites of the cyclooxygenase enzyme. Hopefully, in the future, compound 5l could serve as a lead compound for developing new COX‐2 inhibitors.