bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cochlear Implantation in Children with Auditory Neuropathy: Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bernardes Marina , Costa Claudiney , Ramos Hugo , Almeida Rodolfo , Gobbo Débora , Carasek Natália , Bahmad Fayez , Lamounier Pauliana
Published: November 2023

Background: Auditory neuropathy (AN) is a nosological entity of unknown etiology, which is associated with fluctuations in rates of speech discrimination. Its diagnosis is based on presence of otoacoustic emissions and lack of, or abnormal, brainstem auditory evoked potential. With respect to treatment, we have variable results in the literature about development of speech perception and skills, in children with AN and cochlear implant (CI) rehabilitation. Objectives: Comparatively assessing results recorded for the development of auditory and speech skills in children with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD), who were subjected to cochlear implantation, in comparison to results recorded for children with sensorineural hearing loss associated with other causes was the objective of this study. Method: A systematic literature review with meta-analysis was performed, with studies published from 1975 to 2023. Results: Nineteen studies were included in the systematic review, and eight were selected for the meta-analysis, which showed there was no evidence allowing the conclusion that the two groups were different from each other about results in speech performance after 1 year of CI placement. Conclusion: Therefore, this study shows that CI provides the comparable benefit to children with ANSD in comparison to children with neurosensory hearing loss associated with other causes in their speech development.
Transcription Factor MITF Inhibits the Transcription of CPT1B to Regulate Fatty Acid β-Oxidation and Thus Affects Stemness in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Tang Weijian , Tang Hongguang , Xu Shaohua , Yu Hao , Chen Zhoumiao
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play critical roles in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) progression, and fatty acid oxidation is key for CSC growth and survival. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms regulating fatty acid β-oxidation in LUAD is important for its treatment. Methods: Bioinformatics analysis assessed CPT1B and MITF expression and their correlation in LUAD tissues, as well as the pathways enriched by CPT1B. qRT-PCR assessed expression of CPT1B and MITF, while CCK-8 and sphere-forming assays were used to measure cell viability and stemness, respectively. Dual staining detected lipid accumulation, while kits were used to measure fatty acid β-oxidation and glycerol content. qRT-PCR was used to assay expression of lipid oxidation genes. Western blot was used to examine expression of stem cell-related markers. Dual-luciferase assay and ChIP assay were used to verify the binding relationship between MITF and CPT1B. Results: CPT1B was found to be highly expressed in LUAD and enriched in linoleic acid metabolism pathway and α-linolenic acid metabolism pathway. Functional experiments showed that CPT1B could promote stemness in LUAD cells by regulating fatty acid β-oxidation. Additionally, CPT1B was found to be regulated by the upstream transcription factor MITF, which was lowly expressed in LUAD and could downregulate CPT1B expression. Rescue experiments revealed that CPT1B/MITF axis could affect stemness in LUAD cells by regulating fatty acid β-oxidation. Conclusion: Transcription factor MITF inhibited transcription of CPT1B to regulate fatty acid β-oxidation, thereby suppressing stemness in LUAD cells. MITF and CPT1B may become new targets for LUAD.
The Interaction between CD36 rs1761667 Polymorphism and Dietary Phytochemical Index on the Risk Factors Related to Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Yazdanpanah Zeinab , Mozaffari‐Khosravi Hassan , Mollahosseini Mehdi , Darabi Zahra , Ashrafzadeh Hamid Reza , Mirzaei Masoud , Sheikhha Mohammad Hasan , Salehi-Abargouei Amin
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The aim of the study was to assess the interaction between CD36 rs1761667 and the dietary phytochemical index (DPI) on the risk factors related to metabolic syndrome (MetS) among apparently healthy adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 387 apparently healthy adults (aged 20–70 years) of the recruitment phase of the Yazd Health Study (YaHS). The DPI was calculated using data from a validated and reliable food frequency questionnaire. Genotyping of rs1761667 was performed by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. All participants were categorized into two categories, based on DPI scores. The interactions were tested using logistic regression in adjusted and unadjusted models. Results: There was no significant association between CD36 gene polymorphism rs1761667 and MetS components, and also, the DPI score was not associated with the components of MetS. Significant interactions were observed between DPI and rs1761667 polymorphism on the odds of MetS (p = 0.05) and odds of abdominal obesity (p = 0.01) so that higher adherence to this index was associated with a low risk of MetS and abdominal obesity in individuals with AG genotype. In contrast, increased adherence to the DPI was associated with higher odds of abdominal obesity among the AA genotype. Conclusion: The AG genotype appears to be a protective factor against the risk of MetS and abdominal obesity with greater adherence to DPI. However, additional research is needed to elucidate these interactions and the mechanisms behind these associations.
Mitochondrial Common Deletion Level in Adipose Tissue Is Not Associated with Obesity but Is Associated with a Structural Change in Triglycerides as Revealed by FTIR Spectroscopy
Authors: Yılmaz Ayda , Bahtiyar Nurten , Doğan Mollaoğlu Ayça , Zengin Kagan , Taskin Halit Eren , Karimova Ayla , Baykara Onur , Ulutin Turgut , Onaran Ilhan
Published: November 2023

Objective: Several studies have shown that mitochondrial metabolism may be disrupted if the rate of the specific 4,977 bp deletion of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) reaches a threshold. This study aimed to investigate the possible associations between the mtDNA4977 deletion load and obesity-related metabolic abnormalities in the adipose tissue. Methods: The study included thirty obese individuals, who underwent bariatric surgery, and twelve control subjects. mtDNA4977 deletion, adenine nucleotides, and lactate levels, which show the bioenergetic status were evaluated in visceral adipose tissues. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to investigate the structural variations and composition of adipose tissues in the context of deletion load. Results: There were no differences between the two groups in terms of mtDNA4977 deletion, adenine nucleotides, and lactate levels. The FTIR spectra indicated a few obesity-related alterations in adipose tissues that were not related to the mtDNA deletion load. Also, statistical analysis showed a correlation between the deletion load and a band shift of 1,744 cm−1, which assigns C = O stretching of the carbonyl group of the ester group in triglycerides and other esterified fatty acids, although it is not associated with obesity. Conclusions: Our data suggest that the mtDNA4977 deletion in visceral adipose tissues of obese individuals do not have a significant impact on the bioenergetic status. However, the increased accumulation of deletion may be associated with a specific change in the ester bond, indicating structural differences in the lipids. These findings shed light on our understanding of the tissue-specific distribution of mtDNA deletions and obesity-related adipose tissue pathogeneses.
Assessment of Severity of Long QT Syndrome Phenotype and Risk of Fetal Death
Authors: Albertini Lisa , Ezekian Jordan , Care Melanie , Silversides Candice , Sermer Mathew , Gollob Michael H. , Spears Danna
Published: November 2023

Background

It has been postulated that long QT syndrome (LQTS) can cause fetal loss through putative adverse effects of the channelopathy on placenta and myometrial function. The authors aimed to describe the fetal death rate in a population of pregnant women with long QT syndrome and investigate whether women with more severe phenotype had worse fetal outcomes.

Methods and Results

The authors retrospectively evaluated fetal outcomes of 64 pregnancies from 23 women with long QT syndrome followed during pregnancy in a tertiary pregnancy and heart disease program. Thirteen of 64 pregnancies (20%) resulted in a fetal loss, 12 miscarriages (19%), and 1 stillbirth (1.6%). Baseline maternal characteristics, including age and use of β‐blockers, did not differ between women who experienced a fetal death or not. Maternal corrected QT interval (QTc) was significantly longer in pregnancies that resulted in fetal death compared with live births (median, 518 ms [interquartile range (IQR), 482‐519 ms] versus 479 ms [IQR, 454–496 ms],
P
<0.001). Mothers treated with β‐blockers had babies born at term with lower birth weight compared with untreated women (2973±298 g versus 3470±338 g,
P
=0.002). In addition, the birth weight of babies born at term to treated women with QTc >500 ms was significantly lower compared with women with QTc <500 ms (2783±283 g versus 3084±256 g,
P
=0.029).

Conclusions

Women with long QT syndrome with more severe phenotypes have a higher incidence of fetal death. Maternal QTc is longer in pregnancies that result in fetal loss, and the birth weight of babies born to patients taking β‐blockers with a QTc >500 ms is lower, suggesting that patients with more marked phenotype may experience worse fetal outcomes.
Association Between Remote Monitoring and Interstage Morbidity and Death in Patients With Single‐Ventricle Heart Disease Across Socioeconomic Groups
Authors: Cherestal Bianca , Erickson Lori A. , Noel‐MacDonnell Janelle R. , Shirali Girish , Graue Hancock Hayley S. , Aly Doaa , Files Matthew , Clauss Sarah , Jayaram Natalie
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite improvements in survival over time, the mortality rate for infants with single‐ventricle heart disease remains high. Infants of low socioeconomic status (SES) are particularly vulnerable. We sought to determine whether use of a novel remote monitoring program, the Cardiac High Acuity Monitoring Program, mitigates differences in outcomes by SES.

Methods and Results

Within the Cardiac High Acuity Monitoring Program, we identified 610 infants across 11 centers from 2014 to 2021. All enrolled families had access to a mobile application allowing for near‐instantaneous transfer of patient information to the care team. Patients were divided into SES tertiles on the basis of 6 variables relating to SES. Hierarchical logistic regression, adjusted for potential confounding characteristics, was used to determine the association between SES and death or transplant listing during the interstage period. Of 610 infants, 39 (6.4%) died or were listed for transplant. In unadjusted analysis, the rate of reaching the primary outcome between SES tertiles was similar (
P
=0.24). Even after multivariable adjustment, the odds of death or transplant listing were no different for those in the middle (odds ratio, 1.7 [95% CI, 0.73–3.94) or highest (odds ratio, 0.997 [95% CI, 0.30, 3.36]) SES tertile compared with patients in the lowest (overall
P
value 0.4).

Conclusions

In a large multicenter cohort of infants with single‐ventricle heart disease enrolled in a digital remote monitoring program during the interstage period, we found no difference in outcomes based on SES. Our study suggests that this novel technology could help mitigate differences in outcomes for this fragile population of patients.
Omics and Extreme Phenotyping Reveal Longitudinal Association Between Left Atrial Size and Pulmonary Vascular Resistance in Group 2 Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Kelly Neil J. , Newhouse David , Chapagain Himal , Patel Ashish , Tang Yicheng , Howard Ato , Kirillova Anna , Kim Hee‐Jung J. , Rahman Haris , El Khoury Wadih , Nouraie Seyed Mehdi , Hickey Gavin , Sade Leyla Elif , Jain Sandeep , Chan Stephen Y.
Published: November 2023

Background

Left heart disease is the most common cause of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and is frequently accompanied by increases in pulmonary vascular resistance. However, the distinction between phenotypes of PH due to left heart disease with a normal or elevated pulmonary vascular resistance—isolated postcapillary PH (IpcPH) and combined pre‐ and postcapillary PH (CpcPH), respectively—has been incompletely defined using unbiased methods.

Methods and Results

Patients with extremes of IpcPH versus CpcPH were identified from a single‐center record of those who underwent right heart catheterization. Individuals with left ventricular ejection fraction <40% or with potential causes of PH beyond left heart disease were excluded. Medication usage in IpcPH and CpcPH was compared across Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classes and identified vitamin K antagonists as the only medication with pharmacome‐wide significance, being more commonly used in CpcPH and for an indication of atrial fibrillation in ≈90% of instances. Accordingly, atrial fibrillation prevalence was significantly higher in CpcPH in a phenome‐wide analysis. Review of echocardiographic data most proximal to right heart catheterization revealed that left atrial diameter indexed to body surface area—known to be associated with atrial fibrillation—was increased in CpcPH regardless of the presence of atrial fibrillation. An independent cohort with serial right heart catheterizations and PH–left heart disease showed a significant positive correlation between change in left atrial diameter indexed to body surface area and change in pulmonary vascular resistance.

Conclusions

Guided by pharmacomic and phenomic screens in a rigorously phenotyped cohort, we identify a longitudinal association between left atrial diameter indexed to body surface area and pulmonary vascular resistance with implications for the future development of diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic tools.
Imaging Biomarkers and Prevalence of Complex Aortic Plaque in Cryptogenic Stroke: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sakai Yu , Cao Quy , Rubin Jeremy , Witsch Jens , Cohen‐Addad Dan , de Macedo Rodrigues Katyucia , Coco‐Martin Maria Begoña , Pasyar Pouyan , Juega Jesús , Fan Zhaoyang , Kasner Scott E. , Cucchiara Brett L. , Song Jae W.
Published: November 2023

Background

Complex aortic plaque (CAP) is a potential embolic source in patients with cryptogenic stroke (CS). We review CAP imaging criteria for transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), computed tomography angiography (CTA), and magnetic resonance imaging and calculate CAP prevalence in patients with acute CS.

Methods and Results

PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched up to December 2022 in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guideline. Two independent reviewers extracted data on study design, imaging techniques, CAP criteria, and prevalence. The Cochrane Collaboration tool and Guideline for Reporting Reliability and Agreement Studies were used to assess risk of bias and reporting completeness, respectively. From 2293 studies, 45 were reviewed for CAP imaging biomarker criteria in patients with acute CS (N=37 TEE; N=9 CTA; N=6 magnetic resonance imaging). Most studies (74%) used ≥4 mm plaque thickness as the imaging criterion for CAP although ≥1 mm (N=1, CTA), ≥5 mm (N=5, TEE), and ≥6 mm (N=2, CTA) were also reported. Additional features included mobility, ulceration, thrombus, protrusions, and assessment of plaque composition. From 23 prospective studies, CAP was detected in 960 of 2778 patients with CS (0.32 [95% CI, 0.24–0.41],
I
2
=94%). By modality, prevalence estimates were 0.29 (95% CI, 0.20–0.40;
I
2
=95%) for TEE; 0.23 (95% CI, 0.15–0.34;
I
2
=87%) for CTA and 0.22 (95% CI, 0.06–0.54;
I
2
=92%) for magnetic resonance imaging.

Conclusions

TEE was commonly used to assess CAP in patients with CS. The most common CAP imaging biomarker was ≥4 mm plaque thickness. CAP was observed in one‐third of patients with acute CS. However, high study heterogeneity suggests a need for reproducible imaging methods.
Vasoregulatory Autoantibodies and Clinical Outcome After Ischemic Stroke—PROSCIS‐B
Authors: Liman Thomas G. , Siegerink Bob , Piper Sophie , Catar Rusan , Moll Guido , Riemekasten Gabriela , Heidecke Harald , Heuschmann Peter U. , Elkind Mitchell S. V. , Dragun Duska , Endres Matthias
Published: November 2023

Background

Vasoregulatory autoantibodies including autoantibodies targeting G‐protein–coupled receptors might play a functional role in vascular diseases. We investigated the impact of vasoregulatory autoantibodies on clinical outcome after ischemic stroke.

Methods and Results

Data were used from the
PROSCIS‐B
(Prospective Cohort With Incident Stroke–Berlin). Autoantibody‐targeting receptors such as angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R), endothelin‐1 type A receptor, complement factor‐3 and ‐5 receptors, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐1 and ‐2, vascular endothelial growth factor A and factor B were measured. We explored associations of high antibody levels with (1) poor functional outcome defined as modified Rankin Scale >2 or Barthel Index <60 at 1 year after stroke, (2) Barthel Index scores over time using general estimating equations, and (3) secondary vascular events (recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction) or death up to 3 years using Cox proportional hazard models. We included 491 patients with ischemic stroke with data on autoantibody levels and outcome. In models adjusted for demographics and vascular risk factors, high autoantibody concentrations (quartile 4) targeting complement factor C3a receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2, and vascular endothelial growth factor B were associated with poor functional outcome at 1 year: (odds ratio, 2.0 [95% CI, 1.1–3.6]; odds ratio, 1.8 [95% CI, 1.1–3.2]; and odds ratio, 2.1 [95% CI, 1.2–3.6], respectively) and with lower Barthel Index scores over 3 years (complement factor C3a receptor: adjusted β=−3.3 [95% CI, −5.7 to −0.5]; VEGF‐B: adjusted β=−2.4 [95% CI, −4.8 to −0.06]). Patients with high autoantibody levels were not at higher risk for secondary vascular events or death.

Conclusions

High levels of autoantibodies against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2, vascular endothelial growth factor B, and complement factor C3a receptor measured are associated with poor functional outcome after stroke but not with recurrent vascular events or death.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01363856.
Robust Collaterals Are Independently Associated With Excellent Recanalization in Patients With Large Vessel Occlusion Causing Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Yedavalli Vivek , Koneru Manisha , Hoseinyazdi Meisam , Greene Cynthia , Copeland Karen , Xu Risheng , Luna Licia , Caplan Justin , Dmytriw Adam A. , Guenego Adrien , Heit Jeremy , Albers Gregory , Wintermark Max , Gonzalez Luis Fernando , Urrutia Victor , Huang Judy , Leigh Richard , Marsh Elisabeth , Llinas Rafael , Hillis Argye , Nael Kambiz
Published: November 2023

Background

In patients with acute ischemic stroke secondary to large vessel occlusion, achieving modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) 2c/3 (excellent recanalization) over mTICI 2b is associated with improved functional outcomes. We aimed to determine pretreatment and interventional parameters that are independently associated with mTICI 2c/3 over 2b reperfusion in patients who underwent technically successful mechanical thrombectomy.

Methods

In this retrospective study, consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke with anterior circulation large vessel occlusion achieving mTICI 2b/2c/3 recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy were included. We evaluated the association between pretreatment clinical, imaging, and interventional parameters in patients who achieved mTICI 2c/3 versus 2b using multivariate logistic regressions.

Results

From May 11, 2019 to October 9, 2022, 149 consecutive patients met our inclusion criteria (median 70 years old [interquartile range 65–78.5], 57.7% female). Adjusted multivariate regression analyses showed that patients with excellent recanalization had lower admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.93;
P
=0.036), were less likely to have a history of diabetes (aOR, 0.42;
P
=0.050) and prior stroke (aOR, 0.27;
P
=0.007), had a cerebral blood volume index ≥0.7 (aOR, 3.75;
P
=0.007), and were more likely to achieve excellent recanalization with aspiration alone (aOR, 2.89;
P
=0.012). A multivariate logistic regression model comprising these independent factors predicted mTICI 2c/3 with an area under the curve 0.79 (95% CI, 0.68–0.86;
P
<0.001), sensitivity of 94%, and specificity of 41%.

Conclusion

Robust collateral status defined by cerebral blood volume index ≥0.7 on pretreatment computed tomography perfusion, absence of prior stroke, and absence of diabetes are independently associated with excellent recanalization in patients with successfully recanalized acute ischemic stroke‐large vessel occlusion. Our findings highlight the prognostic implications of robust collateral status and modifiable risk factors that may influence collateral status for maximizing the likelihood of excellent recanalization.
Comparison of maps of species richness and endemism produced directly from species occurrences with those produced by stacked species distribution modelling
Authors: Volis Sergei , Tojibaev Komiljon
Published: November 2023

Knowledge of the spatial patterns of biodiversity is essential for identifying conservation hotspots. Two commonly used methods of biodiversity assessments are point-to-grid maps and habitat suitability maps generated by stacked species distribution modelling (S-SDM). We compared these two types of maps using three metrics: species richness, weighted endemism (WE), and corrected weighted endemism (CWE) produced for three monocot genera (Allium, Tulipa and Eremurus) in Uzbekistan. Also, we asked how close the patterns of species richness and weighted endemism predicted by S-SDM will be if the sampling density is significantly reduced. To answer this question, we compared the maps of species richness and WE produced using the entire dataset, with one in which species occurrences were thinned to no more than ten occurrences per species. The patterns of species richness and WE in point-to-grid maps and maps generated by S-SDM were very similar for all three genera. However, the spatial distribution of CWE generated by S-SDM was dramatically different from that of point-to-grid maps, and this difference was consistent across the three genera. For species richness and WE, the maps produced by S-SDM from the reduced and complete datasets were similar and close to the analogous point-to-grid maps. These results suggest that even incomplete surveys can provide valuable data for elucidating spatial biodiversity patterns and that for conservationists, S-SDM should be an essential part of their toolbox. However, the use of CWE in S-SDM applications should be avoided.
La notion de soi chez l’alcoolique : altérité et ipséité
Authors: Singaïny Erick Jean-Daniel
Published: November 2023

Pour parler vulgairement l’alcoolique a un problème avec le monde et avec l’altérité en raison de sa double figure : il est familier et étrange, toujours ailleurs. Autrement dit, c’est son problème d’identité ou le fait de « rester soi-même » (ipséité) qui est ici questionné car on ne doute pas qu’il est mais on ne sait plus ce qu’il est lorsqu’il boit. Le problème du soi chez l’alcoolique est un problème central lorsque nous envisageons le boire ou l’alcoolisme. Il sera abordé ici dans sa dimension anthropologique, philosophique et clinique. Nous verrons en chemin que nous serons confrontés à une forme de limite qui interroge la place du soignant et la notion de thérapeute. C’est de notre place de soignant que nous parlons.
The Struggle of Ukrainian Women for the Right to Higher Education: Historical and Philosophical Receptions of Liudmyla Smoliar
Authors: Karpenko Kateryna
Published: November 2023

The article examines the conceptualization of the struggle of Ukrainian women for the right to higher education by the Ukrainian historian Liudmyla Smoliar. In the book The Past for the Sake of the Future, she analyzed this topic in a socio-political and cultural context. The researcher noted that under the influence of the social movement of the early 1860s, women were allowed to study at the universities of Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa. Achievements and victories of the pioneers of this field were interspersed with obstacles and new prohibitions. Economic dependence on parents, and then on husbands, outdated legal norms, and political discrimination forced women to look for ways of self-realization. Summarizing the circumstances in which women had to assert their right to education, the researcher concluded that women gradually achieved convincing success, overcoming numerous obstacles at each stage of the arduous struggle for their rights to higher education.
Current Training and Validation Weaknesses in Classification-Based Radiation Fog Nowcast Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Vorndran Michaela , Schütz Adrian , Bendix Jörg , Thies Boris
Published: November 2023

Large inaccuracies still exist in accurately predicting fog formation, dissipation, and duration. To improve these deficiencies, machine learning (ML) algorithms are increasingly used in nowcasting in addition to numerical fog forecasts because of their computational speed and their ability to learn the nonlinear interactions between the variables. Although a powerful tool, ML models require precise training and thoroughly evaluation to prevent misinterpretation of the scores. In addition, a fog dataset’s temporal order and the autocorrelation of the variables must be considered. Therefore, classification-based ML related pitfalls in fog forecasting will be demonstrated in this study by using an XGBoost fog forecasting model. By also using two baseline models that simulate guessing and persistence behavior, we have established two independent evaluation thresholds allowing for a more assessable grading of the ML model’s performance. It will be shown that, despite high validation scores, the model could still fail in operational application. If persistence behavior is simulated, commonly used scores are insufficient to measure the performance. That will be demonstrated through a separate analysis of fog formation and dissipation, because these are crucial for a good fog forecast. We also show that commonly used blockwise and leave-many-out cross-validation methods might inflate the validation scores and are therefore less suitable than a temporally ordered expanding window split. The presented approach provides an evaluation score that closely mimics not only the performance on the training and test dataset but also the operational model’s fog forecasting abilities.

Significance Statement

This study points out current pitfalls in the training and evaluation of pointwise radiation fog forecasting with machine learning algorithms. The objective of this study is to raise awareness of 1) consideration of the time stability of variables (autocorrelation) during training and evaluation, 2) the necessity of evaluating the performance of a fog forecasting model in direct comparison with an independent performance threshold (baseline model) that evaluates whether the fog forecasting model is better than guessing, and 3) the fact that prediction of fog formation and dissipation must be evaluated separately because a model that misses all of these transitions can still achieve high performance in the commonly used overall evaluation.
Effect of double-step pore defects on connection properties of carbon fibre reinforced plastics/Ti laminated components
Authors: Qi Zhenchao , Wang Lei , Sun Jiahao , Qiu Jianping , Hao Haojie
Published: November 2023

The composite structure composed of carbon fiber reinforced composite and titanium alloy is widely used in aviation and aerospace fields. Due to the different physical properties of these two materials, in the process of lamination, it is easy to appear the pore in the direction of thickness is inconsistent, which is called double-step pore defects (DSPD). The existence of DSPD will undoubtedly have an impact on the connection performance of components, but there is no clear conclusion on the extent of its impact on the connection performance, which restricts the improvement of the pore quality evaluation system, and may cause a waste of resources or leave a safety hazard for aircraft. To solve this problem, the finite element model was established to analyze the initial damage phenomenon of the component with DSPD during bolt tightening. The influence of DSPD on the static strength and fatigue properties of the component was studied by designing experiments, and the failure mechanism was revealed from the perspectives of failure form and damage evolution. The purpose of this study is to provide guidance for the improvement of the evaluation standard and the high quality and stability of the lamination component.
The Idea of the Domesticated Animal Contract
Authors: Palmer Clare
Published: November 2023

Some recent works have suggested that the relationship between human beings and domesticated animals might be described as contractual. This paper explores how the idea of such an animal contract might relate to key characteristics of social contract theory, in particular to issues of the change in state from ‘nature’ to ‘culture'; to free consent and irrevocability; and to the benefits and losses to animals which might follow from such a contract. The paper concludes that there are important dissimilarities between a domesticated animal contract and other theories of social contract; and that contract language may be used to legitimate relationships of domination over domesticated animals.
Dolly: A New Form of Transgenic Breedwealth
Authors: Franklin Sarah
Published: November 2023

Public debate in Britain surrounding the cloning of Dolly the sheep has primarily focused on the legitimacy of cloning humans, not sheep. This bracketing of the human question relies on a distinction between humans and animals belied by the very constitution of transgenic animals who are made with human DNA, such as Polly. Moreover, the ways in which human beings think about, manipulate and classify animals have distinct cultural consequences, for example in relation to cultural understandings of life, property, kinship and other forms of social interconnection. This article introduces the term ‘breedwealth’ to examine Dolly as a unique form of property in order to make some of these connections more visible.
The visibility of research within mandatory National Health Service Trust Induction programmes in England: an exploratory survey study
Authors: Menzies Julie , Grieve Sharon , Ainsworth Lucy , Sharman Victoria , Smith Vikki , Henshall Catherine
Published: November 2023

Background:

Mandatory NHS Trust induction programmes are an integral part of staff orientation processes. Although research is recognised as fundamental to high-quality care, little data exist regarding whether research information is included within hospital induction.

Methods:

Two online national surveys were developed, with the aim of identifying Trusts which included research within their mandatory induction programme. Survey 1 was distributed to Research and Development managers across England ( n = 201). Survey 2 collated information on the research content and delivery methods of induction material. The work was classified as a service evaluation and reported in accordance with CHERRIES reporting standards.

Results:

Survey 1 generated 124 unique responses (61% response rate). Thirty-nine percent of Trusts ( n = 48) featured information about research delivery and 24% ( n = 30) about training or support to develop clinical academic careers. There was wide variation in how materials were delivered, by whom and for how long.

Conclusions:

Currently research has a limited profile within English NHS Trust mandatory induction programmes. This needs to be addressed if research is truly to be considered part of the core National Health Service business. Guidance or a modifiable template could help Trusts communicate about research delivery and clinical academic development and training to all new employees.
Effect of herbivore stress on transgene behaviour in maize crosses with different genetic backgrounds: cry1Ab transgene transcription, insecticidal protein expression and bioactivity against insect pests
Authors: Lohn André Felipe , Trtikova Miluse , Chapela Ignacio , van den Berg Johnnie , du Plessis Hannalene , Hilbeck Angelika
Published: November 2023

Background

Decades after their first commercial release, many theoretical assumptions are still taken for granted in the deployment of genetically modified (GM) crops. Theoretically, in the case of maize, active transcription of the cry1Ab transgene would result in dose-dependent production of the insecticidal Cry1Ab protein, which would in turn induce dose-dependent mortality on lepidopteran pests. We produced data to realistically approach this question by using a model that includes two genetic background contexts from two geographical provenances in Brazil and South Africa, and two lepidopteran pests (Helicoverpa armigera and Spodoptera littoralis). However, in this study, the effect of insect herbivory was superimposed to investigate possible stress-induced effects in transgene expression at three levels: mRNA, protein and bioactivity.

Results

Overall, we found that herbivore damage by H. armigera was reflected only at the translational level, with a higher level of Cry1Ab protein measured in the Brazilian crosses under herbivore stress. On the other hand, compared to non-stress growing conditions, the herbivore damage by S. littoralis was not directly reflected in mRNA, protein or bioactivity in the South African crosses.

Conclusions

The differences between South African and Brazilian genetic backgrounds, and between the stressor effect of the two herbivores used, highlight the complexity of transgene expression at the agroecological level.
Resuming anti-TNF therapy after development of miliary tuberculosis in Behcet’s disease-related uveitis: a case report
Authors: Toriu Chika , Tsubota Kinya , Usui Yoshihiko , Goto Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

There is no consensus concerning restarting anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α therapy for uveitis after treatment for active tuberculosis (TB). We report a case of Behcet disease (BD) in which treatment with TNF inhibitor was successfully resumed after treatment for miliary TB.

Case report

A 48-year-old Japanese male was treated for uveitis of unknown aetiology in the left eye at a general ophthalmology clinic. He was referred to Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University Hospital because of macula oedema (ME) not responding to prednisolone (PSL) 20 mg. BD was diagnosed based on fluorescein angiographic findings of diffuse retinal vasculitis characteristic of BD, recurrent oral aphthous ulcer, erythema nodosum-like rash in his legs, and HLA-A26 positivity. After a screening test, adalimumab (ADA) was started as steroid-sparing therapy. Eight months after starting ADA, the patient was diagnosed with miliary TB. ADA and PSL were discontinued immediately due to TB. Anti-TB treatment was completed after 6 months based on clinical improvement, although T-SPOT.TB was still positive. Infliximab with isoniazid was started due to relapse of ME, worsened vitreous haze, and worsened visual acuity in his left eye. Subsequently, his ocular symptoms subsided and there was no relapse of TB.

Conclusion

This case suggests that in patients with BD who have discontinued anti-TNF therapy due to miliary TB, restarting anti-TNF therapy may be a therapeutic option after TB has been treated appropriately with careful monitoring for relapse.
Genome assembly of Erythrophleum Fordii, a special “ironwood” tree in China
Authors: Wen Chang-Yu , Lian Ju-Yu , Peng Wei-Xiong , Wang Zheng-Feng , Yang Zhi-Gang , Cao Hong-Lin
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Erythrophleumis a genus in the Fabaceae family. The genus contains only about 10 species, and it is best known for its hardwood and medical properties worldwide.Erythrophleum fordiiOliv. is the only species of this genus distributed in China. It has superior wood and can be used in folk medicine, which leads to its overexploitation in the wild. For its effective conservation and elucidation of the distinctive genetic traits of wood formation and medical components, we present its first genome assembly.

Data description

This work generated ~ 160.8 Gb raw Nanopore whole genome sequencing (WGS) long reads, ~ 126.0 Gb raw MGI WGS short reads and ~ 29.0 Gb raw RNA-seq reads usingE. fordiileaf tissues. Thede novoassembly contained 864,825,911 bp in theE. fordiigenome, with 59 contigs and a contig N50 of 30,830,834 bp. Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO) revealed 98.7% completeness of the assembly. The assembly contained 471,006,885 bp (54.4%) repetitive sequences and 28,761 genes that coded for 33,803 proteins. The protein sequences were functionally annotated against multiple databases, facilitating comparative genomic analysis.
The perceptions of food service staff in a nursing home on an upcoming transition towards a healthy and sustainable food environment: a qualitative study
Authors: Hoefnagels Femke A. , Patijn Olga N. , Meeusen Marieke J. G. , Battjes-Fries Marieke C. E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Healthy and sustainable food environments are urgently needed, also in nursing and residential care homes. Malnutrition in care homes is becoming an increasing problem as populations worldwide are ageing and many older people do not consume sufficient protein, fibre, fruit, and vegetables. Nursing homes also often experience a lot of food waste. A transition in the food environment like a nursing home, involves the participation of facility management and food service staff members. This study aims to map out their perceived barriers and facilitators for this transition.

Methods

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with food service staff members (n = 16), comprising of kitchen staff (n = 4), wait staff (n = 10), and facility management (n = 2) of two nursing homes in the Netherlands. Thematic analysis was used to derive content and meaning from transcribed interviews.

Results

Four main themes were identified. Theme 1: ‘Communication, transparency and accountability in the chain’, highlighting the lack of effective communication flows and a fragmented overview of the food service chain as a whole. Theme 2: ‘Understanding, knowledge and ability of the concepts healthy and sustainable’, revealing the gap in staff’s understanding of these abstract concepts, despite perceiving themselves as having sufficient knowledge and ability. Theme 3: ‘The pampering service mind-set’, highlighting the contradiction in the staff’s shared goal of proving the highest quality of life for residents while also pampering them in ways that may not align with promoting healthy and sustainable food choices. Theme 4: ‘Transition is important but hard to realize’, describing the barriers such as existing routines and a lack of resources as challenges to implementing changes in the food service.

Conclusions

Facilitators to transitioning nursing homes towards a healthy and sustainable food environment as perceived by staff members included transparent communication, accountability in the food supply chain, staff’s perceived ability and shared goal, while barriers included lack of understanding of the concepts healthy and sustainable, the current pampering mindset, and top-down decision-making. These findings provide valuable insights for nursing homes seeking to transition towards a healthier and more sustainable food environment.
Identification of LDLR mutation in cerebral venous sinus thrombosis co-existing with dural arteriovenous fistulas: a case report
Authors: Li Qing-hua , Xu Li-quan , Dong Qiang , Chu He-ling , Tang Yu-ping
Published: November 2023

Background

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is typically associated with a prothrombotic state of the blood, with its causative factors varying widely. Prior research has not reported the simultaneous occurrence of CVST and dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) as potentially resulting from genetic mutations. In this case report, we introduce a unique occurrence wherein a patient with a heterozygous mutation of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene presented with CVST in conjunction with DAVFs.

Case

Presentation: A male patient, aged 51, sought treatment at our facility due to a consistent decline in cognitive functions accompanied by recurrent headaches. Comprehensive evaluations were administered, including neurological examinations, laboratory tests, magnetic resonance imaging, digital subtraction angiography, and whole exome sequencing. Digital subtraction angiography identified DAVFs in the patient’s right sigmoid sinus and an occlusion within the left transverse sinus. The whole exome sequencing of blood samples pinpointed a heterozygous mutation in the LDLR gene (NM_000527:exon12:c.C1747T:p.H583Y). Following the confirmed diagnosis of CVST and DAVFs, the patient underwent anticoagulant therapy combined with endovascular procedures — these comprised embolization of the arteriovenous fistula in the right sigmoid sinus and balloon dilation with stent implantation in the left transverse sinus. A six-month follow-up indicated a significant abatement in the patient’s symptoms.

Conclusions

This report marks the first documented case of an LDLR gene mutation that could be associated with the onset of CVST and DAVFs. The mutation in the LDLR gene might foster a prothrombotic environment, facilitating the gradual emergence of CVST and the subsequent genesis of DAVFs.
Reliability and reproducibility of CBCT assessment of mandibular changes before and after treatment for Class III growing patients – an easy and quick way for evaluation
Authors: Hu XiaoYing , Cheung Gary Shun Pan , Zhang YiYang , Sun RuoNan , Dong FuSheng
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate intraobserver reliability and inter-observer reproducibility of a 3-dimensional (3D) assessment method for mandibular changes of growing patients after orthodontic treatment for Class III malocclusion.

Methods Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were performed before and after orthodontic treatment for 27 patients. During the scan, the patient was positioned such that his/her mandibular plane was parallel to floor. Three observers independently worked on the DICOM data, reconstructed the pre- and post-treatment 3D models in software, selected the stable anatomical structures (basal bone area from the lingual surface of the symphysis to the distal aspect of the first molars) to guide the automated superimposition process. Then, each observer registered 14 anatomical landmarks on the virtual models, for three times after suitable interval, to generate 3 sets of coordinates; the mean was taken as the coordinates for that particular landmark. The intraobserver reliability and inter-observer reproducibility of the method were analyzed.

Results The ICCs was > 0.90 for 25 (92.6%) of the intraobserver assessments. The precision of the measurement method was < 0.3 mm in 24 (88.9%) cases. The interobserver reproducibility errors were < 0.3 mm in 21 of the 27 cases.

Conclusions The intraobserver reliability and inter-observer reproducibility of 3D assessment of mandibular changes using the virtual models were excellent.
A qualitative exploration of forensic pathology service staff perceptions of the implementation barriers and facilitators of manual- and electronic injury mortality surveillance system methods in South Africa
Authors: Arendse N. , Goolam Nabi Z. , van Niekerk A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Injury mortality surveillance systems are critical to monitor changes in a population’s injury outcomes so that relevant injury prevention responses may be adopted. This is particularly the case in South Africa, where the injury burden is nearly twice the global rate. Regular evaluations of surveillance systems are pivotal to strengthening surveillance capacity, performance, and cost effectiveness. The National Injury Mortality Surveillance System (NIMSS) is an injury mortality surveillance system that is currently focused in Mpumalanga and utilises manual and electronic web-based systems for data collection. This study explored Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) staff perceptions of the implementation barriers and facilitators of manual- and electronic injury mortality surveillance system methods.

Methods

A qualitative study was employed using purposive sampling. Forty-seven participants, aged 29 to 59 years comprising 31 males and 16 females were recruited across 21 FPS facilities that serve the province. The formative evaluation occurred over the November 2019 to November 2022 period. Twelve focus group discussions were thematically analysed to determine emerging themes and patterns related to the use of the system using the WHO surveillance system guidelines as a framework.

Results

The key themes concerning the barriers and facilitators were located along WHO attributes of simplicity, acceptability, timeliness, flexibility, data quality and stability. Distinctions between the manual and e-surveillance systems were drawn upon across the attributes highlighting their experience with the system, user preference, and its contextual relevance. With Mpumalanga predominantly rural, internet connectivity was a common issue, with most participants consequently showing a preference for the manual system, even though the electronic system’s automated internal validation process was of benefit. The data quality however remained similar for both methods. With program stability and flexibility, the manual system proved more beneficial as the dataset was reported to be easily transferrable across computer devices.

Conclusion

Obtaining FPS perceptions of their experiences with the system methodologies are pertinent for the enhancement of injury surveillance systems so to improve prospective engagements with the systems. This will facilitate timely and accurate injury mortality information which is vital to inform public policy, and injury control and prevention responses.