bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting cardiac output estimated noninvasively from oxygen uptake during exercise: an exploratory hypothesis-generating replication study
Authors: Burchert Holger , Klimpel Fabian
Published: July 2023

In 1997, Stringer, Hansen, and Wasserman developed a method for estimating cardiac output during incremental exercise testing. They observed that the arterio-mixed venous oxygen content difference increases linearly with the percentage of maximal O2 consumption. This increase may be better modelled by an S-shaped function, the inflection point of which may be related to the first ventilatory threshold and the inflection point of the oxygen dissociation curve. This finding may help to improve the method.
Serial blood volume measurements in patients with compensated chronic heart failure: How do volume profiles change over time?
Authors: Miller Wayne L. , Silver Marc A.
Published: July 2023

The novel findings of this study demonstrate that blood volume profiles while highly variable in clinically compensated patients with HF on stable medical therapy do not change substantially over a 6-mo period regardless of baseline expanded or normal blood volumes. This lack of change in volume profiles particularly from an expanded blood volume has implications for long-term volume management and also for how we understand the pathophysiology of volume homeostasis in chronic HF.
Predominant myosin superrelaxed state in canine myocardium with naturally occurring dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ochala Julien , Lewis Christopher T. A. , Beck Thomas , Iwamoto Hiroyuki , Hessel Anthony L. , Campbell Kenneth S. , Pyle W. Glen
Published: July 2023

The key finding of the present study is that, in left ventricles of dogs with a naturally occurring dilated cardiomyopathy, relaxed myosin molecules favor a nonsequestered superrelaxed state potentially impairing sarcomeric contractility. This alteration is rescuable by applying a small molecule activating myosin known as EMD-57033.
A Phase II Study of Durvalumab for Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Unresponsive Urothelial Carcinoma In Situ of the Bladder
Authors: Li Roger , Sexton Wade J. , Dhillon Jasreman , Berglund Anders , Naidu Shreyas , Borjas Gustavo , Rose Kyle , Kim Youngchul , Wang Xuefeng , Conejo-Garcia Jose R. , Jain Rohit K. , Poch Michael A. , Spiess Philippe E. , Pow-Sang Julio , Gilbert Scott M. , Zhang Jingsong
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

Immune checkpoint blockade holds promise for treating bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG)-unresponsive non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). In this phase II study, we investigated the safety and efficacy of durvalumab, a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody, against BCG-unresponsive carcinoma in situ (CIS).

Patients and Methods:

Patients with BCG-unresponsive CIS-containing NMIBC received durvalumab IV at 1,500 mg every 4 weeks for up to 12 months. The primary endpoint was complete response (CR) rate at month 6, defined by negative cystoscopy, urine cytology, and absence of high-grade recurrence on bladder mapping biopsy. The null hypothesis specified a CR rate of 18% and alternative hypothesis of 40%. According to the Simon two-stage design, if ≤3/13 patients achieved CR during stage 1, the trial is stopped due to futility.

Results:

Between March 8, 2017, and January 24, 2020, 17 patients were accrued whereas 4 withdrew from study treatment after bladder biopsy at month 3 was positive for CIS. Two of 17 (12%) achieved a CR at month 6, with duration of response of 10 and 18 months, respectively. A single grade 3 lipase elevation was attributed to durvalumab, and immune-related adverse events were observed in 7/17 (41%) patients. Only 1/17 patients had high programmed death-ligand 1 expression pretreatment. On RNA sequencing, complement activation genes were elevated posttreatment, along with enrichment of tumor-associated macrophage signature.

Conclusions:

Durvalumab monotherapy conferred minimal efficacy in treating BCG-unresponsive CIS of the bladder, with 6-month CR of 12%. Complement activation is a potential mechanism behind treatment resistance.
A Population of Tumor-Infiltrating CD4+ T Cells Co-Expressing CD38 and CD39 Is Associated with Checkpoint Inhibitor Resistance
Authors: Mitra Ankita , Thompson Brian , Strange Ann , Amato Carol M. , Vassallo Melinda , Dolgalev Igor , Hester-McCullough Jonathan , Muramatsu Tomoaki , Kimono Diana , Puranik Amrutesh S. , Weber Jeffrey S. , Woods David
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

We previously showed that elevated frequencies of peripheral blood CD3+CD4+CD127−GARP−CD38+CD39+ T cells were associated with checkpoint immunotherapy resistance in patients with metastatic melanoma. In the present study, we sought to further investigate this population of ectoenzyme-expressing T cells (Teee).

Experimental Design:

Teee derived from the peripheral blood of patients with metastatic melanoma were evaluated by bulk RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) and flow cytometry. The presence of Teee in the tumor microenvironment was assessed using publically available single-cell RNA-seq datasets of melanoma, lung, and bladder cancers along with multispectral immunofluorescent imaging of melanoma patient formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens. Suppressive function of Teee was determined by an in vitro autologous suppression assay.

Results:

Teee had phenotypes associated with proliferation, apoptosis, exhaustion, and high expression of inhibitory molecules. Cells with a Teee gene signature were present in tumors of patients with melanoma, lung, and bladder cancers. CD4+ T cells co-expressing CD38 and CD39 in the tumor microenvironment were preferentially associated with Ki67− CD8+ T cells. Co-culture of patient Teee with autologous T cells resulted in decreased proliferation of target T cells. High baseline intratumoral frequencies of Teee were associated with checkpoint immunotherapy resistance and poor overall survival in patients with metastatic melanoma.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate that a novel population of CD4+ T cells co-expressing CD38 and CD39 is found both in the peripheral blood and tumor of patients with melanoma and is associated with checkpoint immunotherapy resistance.
Supplementary Table S1 from AXL Inhibition Improves the Antitumor Activity of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells
Authors: Sakemura R. Leo , Hefazi Mehrdad , Cox Michelle J. , Siegler Elizabeth L. , Sinha Sutapa , Hansen Michael J. , Stewart Carli M. , Feigin Jennifer M. , Manriquez Roman Claudia , Schick Kendall J. , Can Ismail , Tapper Erin E. , Horvei Paulina , Adada Mohamad M. , Bezerra Evandro D. , Kankeu Fonkoua Lionel Aurelien , Ruff Michael W. , Forsman Cynthia L. , Nevala Wendy K. , Boysen Justin C. , Tschumper Renee C. , Grand Cory L. , Kuchimanchi Kameswara R. , Mouritsen Lars , Foulks Jason M. , Warner Steven L. , Call Timothy G. , Parikh Sameer A. , Ding Wei , Kay Neil E. , Kenderian Saad S.
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Table S1
Supplementary Figure Legends from AXL Inhibition Improves the Antitumor Activity of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells
Authors: Sakemura R. Leo , Hefazi Mehrdad , Cox Michelle J. , Siegler Elizabeth L. , Sinha Sutapa , Hansen Michael J. , Stewart Carli M. , Feigin Jennifer M. , Manriquez Roman Claudia , Schick Kendall J. , Can Ismail , Tapper Erin E. , Horvei Paulina , Adada Mohamad M. , Bezerra Evandro D. , Kankeu Fonkoua Lionel Aurelien , Ruff Michael W. , Forsman Cynthia L. , Nevala Wendy K. , Boysen Justin C. , Tschumper Renee C. , Grand Cory L. , Kuchimanchi Kameswara R. , Mouritsen Lars , Foulks Jason M. , Warner Steven L. , Call Timothy G. , Parikh Sameer A. , Ding Wei , Kay Neil E. , Kenderian Saad S.
Published: July 2023

Supplementary Figure Legends
Composição química e avaliação das atividades antioxidante e antimicrobiana do óleo essencial das folhas de Hyptidendron canum (Pohl ex Benth.) R.Harley
Authors: Oliveira Júlia Assunção de Castro , Lima Rafaela Karin de , Sobral Marcos Eduardo Guerra , Lyon Juliana Pereira , Rezende Rafael Reis de , Alves Péricles Barreto , Lima Rafaely Nascimento
Published: July 2023

Hyptidendron canum (Pohl ex Benth) R.Harley, comumente conhecida como “catinga-de-bode-do-cerrado” é uma espécie utilizada popularmente como antifúngico e anti-inflamatório. Sabendo que os óleos essenciais (OE) se destacam por estas e outras bioatividades (analgésicas, microbianas, dentre outras), objetivou-se avaliar o teor e caracterizar o OE das folhas de H. canum, bem como avaliar suas potenciais atividades antimicrobiana e antioxidante. O OE foi extraído por hidrodestilação e caracterizado por cromatografia gasosa. A atividade antimicrobiana foi avaliada sob os microrganismos Staphylococcus aureus, Escherischia coli, Candida albicans, C. glabrata e C. krusei e a atividade antioxidante pelo método DPPH. Os constituintes majoritários foram: β-macrocarpeno, γ-muuroleno, (E)-cariofileno. Os resultados demonstraram que este OE possui atividade fungicida (44,68 μg/mL) e antioxidante. Assim, este OE é uma promissora fonte natural como antioxidante e antifúngico.
Microrganismos marinhos: um reservatório de hidrolases biotecnologicamente interessantes
Authors: Lopes Isabelle Rodrigues , Canellas Anna Luiza Bauer , Oliveira Bruno Francesco Rodrigues de , Laport Marinella Silva
Published: July 2023

Esta revisão tem por objetivo fornecer uma revisão narrativa atualizada acerca de enzimas hidrolíticas (agarases, amilases, celulases, esterases, lipases, peptidases e quitinases) isoladas do microbioma marinho. Esses biocatalisadores apresentam propriedades bioquímicas únicas, como halotolerância, extremos de pH, temperatura e barofilicidade, que os tornam atraentes para uso em diversos setores industriais, estimulando futuras aplicações biotecnológicas. Considerando o vasto repertório enzimático dos diversos membros das comunidades microbianas vivendo no ambiente marinho, salienta-se a imprescindibilidade de acessar esse habitat, mais especificamente essas unidades biocatalíticas. Com a devida atenção voltada ao viés industrial, novos biocatalisadores serão descobertos com sucesso nas comunidades microbianas marinhas, desde a confirmação de sua atividade até a comprovação de seu emprego prático nos setores de interesse e geração de propriedade intelectual.
Risk of Worsening Heart Failure and All-Cause Mortality Following COVID-19 Vaccination in Patients With Heart Failure: A Nationwide Real-World Safety Study
Authors: Sindet-Pedersen Caroline , Michalik Felix , Strange Jarl Emanuel , Christensen Daniel Mølager , Nouhravesh Nina , Gerds Thomas Alexander , Andersson Charlotte , Folke Fredrik , Biering-Sørensen Tor , Fosbøl Emil , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Gislason Gunnar H. , Køber Lars , Schou Morten
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Patients with heart failure are vulnerable to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, limited evidence exists on the safety of the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines in this patient population. The objective of this study was to investigate the risk of all-cause mortality, worsening heart failure, venous thromboembolism, and myocarditis associated with the mRNA vaccines in patients with heart failure.

METHODS:

Using Danish nationwide registries, 2 cohorts were constructed: (1) all prevalent heart failure patients in 2019 aged 40 to 95 years and (2) all prevalent heart failure patients in 2021 aged 40 to 95 years, who were vaccinated with either of the 2 mRNA vaccines (BNT162B2 or mRNA-1273). The patients in the 2 cohorts were matched 1:1 using exact exposure matching on age, sex, and duration of heart failure. To estimate standardized absolute risks, outcome-specific Cox regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS:

The total study population comprised 101 786 patients. The median age of the study population was 74 years (interquartile range, 66–81). The standardized risk of all-cause mortality within 90 days was 2.23% (95% CI, 2.10%–2.36%) in the vaccinated cohort and 2.56% (95% CI, 2.43%–2.70%) in the unvaccinated cohort (90-day risk difference, −0.33% [95% CI, −0.52% to −0.15%]). The standardized risk of worsening heart failure within 90 days was 1.10% (95% CI, −1.01% to 1.19%) in the 2021 (vaccinated) cohort and 1.08% (95% CI, 0.99%–1.17%) in the 2019 (unvaccinated) cohort (risk difference, 0.02% [95% CI, −0.11% to 0.15%]). No significant differences were found regarding venous thromboembolism or myocarditis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Receiving an mRNA vaccine was not associated with an increased risk of worsening heart failure, myocarditis, venous thromboembolism, or all-cause mortality.
Evolution of NT-proBNP During Prerandomization Screening in VICTORIA: Implications for Clinical Outcomes and Efficacy of Vericiguat
Authors: Armstrong Paul W. , Zheng Yinggan , Lund Lars H. , Butler Javed , Troughton Richard W. , Emdin Michele , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Ponikowski Piotr , Blaustein Robert O. , O’Connor Christopher M. , Roessig Lothar , Voors Adriaan A. , Ezekowitz Justin A. , Westerhout Cynthia M. ,   on behalf of the VICTORIA Study Group
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Selecting high-risk patients with heart failure with potentially modifiable cardiovascular events is a priority. Our objective was to evaluate NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) changes during a 30-day screening to establish (1) the frequency and direction of changes; (2) whether a relationship exists between changes in NT-proBNP and the primary composite outcome of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization; and (3) whether changes in NT-proBNP relate to vericiguat’s clinical benefit.

METHODS:

VICTORIA (A Study of Vericiguat in Participants With Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction) randomized 5050 patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and a recent worsening heart failure event. We studied 3821 patients who had NT-proBNP measured during screening and at randomization.

RESULTS:

Sixteen hundred exhibited a >20% reduction, 1412 had ≤20% change, and 809 showed a >20% rise in NT-proBNP levels. As compared with the primary composite outcome of 28.4/100 patient-years (497 events; 31.1%) in patients with a >20% decline in NT-proBNP, those with >20% during screening had worse outcomes; 48.8/100 patient-years (359 events; 44.4%); adjusted hazard ratio, 1.61 (95% CI, 1.39–1.85). Those patients with a ≤20% change in NT-proBNP had intermediate outcomes; 39.2/100 patient-years (564 events; 39.9%); adjusted hazard ratio, 1.33 (95% CI, 1.17–1.51). No relationship existed between NT-proBNP changes during screening and vericiguat’s effect on cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS:

Substantial differences occurred in the rates of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization, especially in patients with a >20% change in NT-proBNP levels during screening interval. Sequential NT-proBNP levels add important prognostic information meriting consideration in future heart failure trials.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02861534.
Sex Differences in Coronary Atherosclerotic Phenotype and Healing Pattern on Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging
Authors: Seegers Lena Marie , DeFaria Yeh Doreen , Yonetsu Taishi , Sugiyama Tomoyo , Minami Yoshiyasu , Soeda Tsunenari , Araki Makoto , Nakajima Akihiro , Yuki Haruhito , Kinoshita Daisuke , Suzuki Keishi , Niida Takayuki , Lee Hang , McNulty Iris , Nakamura Sunao , Kakuta Tsunekazu , Fuster Valentin , Jang Ik-Kyung
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Layered plaque, a signature of previous plaque disruption, is a known predictor of rapid plaque progression. Layered plaque can be identified in vivo by optical coherence tomography. Studies have reported differences in plaque burden between women and men, but sex differences in the pattern of layered plaque are unknown.

METHODS:

Preintervention optical coherence tomography images of 533 patients with chronic coronary syndromes were analyzed. Detailed plaque characteristics of layered and nonlayered plaques of the target lesion were compared between men and women.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of layered plaque was similar between men (N=418) and women (N=115; 55% versus 54%;
P
=0.832). In men, more features of plaque vulnerability were identified in layered plaque than in nonlayered plaque: lipid plaque (87% versus 69%;
P
<0.001), macrophages (69% versus 56%;
P
=0.007), microvessels (72% versus 39%;
P
<0.001), and cholesterol crystals (49% versus 30%;
P
<0.001). No difference in plaque vulnerability between layered and nonlayered plaques was observed in women. Layered plaque in men had more features consistent with previous plaque rupture than in women: interrupted pattern (74% versus 52%;
P
<0.001) and a greater layer index (1198 [781–1835] versus 943 [624–1477];
P
<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

In men, layered plaques exhibit more features of vascular inflammation and vulnerability as well as evidence of previous plaque rupture, compared with nonlayered plaques, whereas in women, no difference was observed between layered and nonlayered plaques. Vascular inflammation (plaque rupture) may be the predominant mechanism of layered plaque in men, whereas a less inflammatory mechanism may play a key role in women.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique Identifier: NCT01110538, NCT04523194
8-Aminopurines in the Cardiovascular and Renal Systems and Beyond
Authors: Jackson Edwin K. , Tofovic Stevan P. , Chen Yuanyuan , Birder Lori A.
Published: July 2023

Screening of compounds comprising 8-substituted guanine revealed that 8-aminoguanosine and 8-aminoguanine cause diuresis/natriuresis/glucosuria, yet decrease potassium excretion. Subsequent investigations demonstrated that 8-aminoguanosine’s effects are mediated by its metabolite 8-aminoguanine. The mechanism by which 8-aminoguanine causes diuresis/natriuresis/glucosuria involves inhibition of PNPase (purine nucleoside phosphorylase), which increases renal interstitial inosine levels. Additional evidence suggests that inosine, via indirect or direct adenosine A
2B
receptor activation, increases renal medullary blood flow which enhances renal excretory function. Likely, 8-aminoguanine has pleiotropic actions that also alter renal excretory function. Indeed, the antikaliuretic effects of 8-aminoguanine are independent of PNPase inhibition. 8-Aminoguanine is an endogenous molecule; nitrosative stress leads to production of biomolecules containing 8-nitroguanine moieties. Degradation of these biomolecules releases 8-nitroguanosine and 8-nitro-2′-deoxyguanosine which are converted to 8-aminoguanine. Also, guanosine and guanine per se may contribute to 8-aminoguanine formation. 8-Aminoinosine, 8-aminohypoxanthine, and 8-aminoxanthine likewise induce diuresis/natriuresis/glucosuria, yet do not reduce potassium excretion. Thus, there are several pharmacologically active 8-aminopurines with nuanced effects on renal excretory function. Chronic treatment with 8-aminoguanine attenuates hypertension in deoxycorticosterone/salt rats, prevents strokes, and increases lifespan in Dahl salt-sensitive rats on a high salt diet and attenuates the metabolic syndrome in rats; 8-aminoguanosine retards progression of pulmonary hypertension in rats and anemia and organ damage in sickle cell mice. 8-Aminoguanine reverses age-associated lower urinary tract dysfunction and retinal degeneration. 8-Aminopurines represent a new class of agents (and potentially endogenous factors) that have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system and kidneys and may turn back the clock in age-associated diseases.
Still I Rise: Baptism, Liberation, and White Supremacy
Authors: Grafenreed Mark C.
Published: July 2023

There is no life without water. Covering three-fourths of the earth, water is necessary for sustaining life and represents the purification of all creation. Water motifs, likewise, figure prominently throughout the biblical narrative in which God cataclysmically intervenes through water into history and the human affairs of marginalized and oppressed peoples. God utilizes and reveals the transformative power of water as a symbol of freedom, liberation, emancipation, renewal, refreshing, righteousness, new birth, and new life. This symbolism is experienced through water baptism, the “sacrament of initiation” for all Christians. However, within the black Christian Church tradition, “the ritual of baptism is a crucial means of nurturing an embodied awareness of a self-identity that God values and affirms.” While white supremacists have sought to eradicate black bodies’ self-identity in God by legally mutating the meaning and efficacy of baptism, through their “dogged strength,” the black Christian Church tradition must reclaim the waters of liberation as a fundamental basis for locating their story, identity, and solidarity in God’s story.
Large-amplitude quasi-stationary Rossby wave events in ERA5 and the CESM2: features, precursors, and model biases in Northern Hemisphere winter
Authors: Fei Cuiyi , White Rachel H.
Published: July 2023

High amplitude quasi-stationary Rossby waves (QSWs) have been connected to extreme weather events. By identifying particularly high amplitude QSW events (QWEs) over Europe and North America we study their characteristics in ERA5 re-analysis data and in ensemble simulations from the CESM2 general circulation model. The CESM2 reproduces the overall statistics of QWEs, with ERA5 results within the ensemble spread. The ensemble spread is large, indicating a strong influence of internal variability. Composites of meridional wind anomalies for QWEs show a phase preference in both ERA5 and CESM2, resembling the climatological wave pattern. This is partly due to the definition of QSWs; with the day-of-year climatological meridional wind removed when identifying QSWs, the phase preference remains, albeit with a weaker signal. Significant tropical Pacific precipitation anomalies are seen 5-15 days before observed QWEs; the location of these anomalies is broadly reproduced in CESM2, but the magnitude is substantially underestimated and the time scale is biased. We find a narrowed and strengthened jet stream over the Pacific at the early stage of European QWEs, which may create enhanced waveguidability; this signal is generally reproduced in the models. Overall, the CESM2 can simulate QWEs; differences between the model ensemble mean and re-analysis could result from model bias or internal variability, although biases are not reduced in CESM2 simulations forced with observed SSTs.
Growing Pacific Linkage with Western North Atlantic Explosive Cyclogenesis
Authors: Stuivenvolt-Allen Jacob , Wang Simon S.-Y. , Chikamoto Yoshimitsu , Meyer Jonathan D. D. , Johnson Zachary F. , Deng Liping
Published: July 2023

Explosive cyclones (ECs), defined as extratropical cyclones that experience normalized pressure drops of at least 24 hPa in 24 h, are impactful weather events in the North Atlantic sector, but year-to-year changes in the frequency and impacts of these storms are sizeable. To analyze the sources of this interannual variability, we track cases of ECs and dissect them into two spatial groups: those that formed near the east coast of North America (coastal) and those in the north central Atlantic (high latitude). The frequency of high-latitude ECs is strongly correlated with the North Atlantic Oscillation, a well-known feature, whereas coastal EC frequency is statistically linked with an atmospheric wave train emanating from the North Pacific in the last 30 years. This wave train pattern of alternating high and low pressure is associated with heightened upper-level divergence and Eady growth rates along the east coast of North America, likely resulting in a stronger correspondence between the atmospheric wave train and coastal EC frequency. Using coupled model experiments, we show that the tropical and North Pacific oceans are an important factor for this atmospheric wave train and the subsequent enhancement of seasonal baroclinicity in the North Atlantic.
Diagnosing Factors Leading to an Incorrect Supercell Thunderstorm Forecast
Authors: Mykolajtchuk Paul D. , Eure Keenan C. , Stensrud David J. , Zhang Yunji , Greybush Steven J. , Kumjian Matthew R.
Published: July 2023

On 28 April 2019, hourly forecasts from the operational High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model consistently predicted an isolated supercell storm late in the day near Dodge City, Kansas, that subsequently was not observed. Two convection-allowing model (CAM) ensemble runs are created to explore the reasons for this forecast error and implications for severe weather forecasting. The 40-member CAM ensembles are run using the HRRR configuration of the WRF-ARW Model at 3-km horizontal grid spacing. The Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation (GSI)-based ensemble Kalman filter is used to assimilate observations every 15 min from 1500 to 1900 UTC, with resulting ensemble forecasts run out to 0000 UTC. One ensemble only assimilates conventional observations, and its forecasts strongly resemble the operational HRRR with all ensemble members predicting a supercell storm near Dodge City. In the second ensemble, conventional observations plus observations of WSR-88D radar clear-air radial velocities, WSR-88D diagnosed convective boundary layer height, and GOES-16 all-sky infrared brightness temperatures are assimilated to improve forecasts of the preconvective environment, and its forecasts have half of the members predicting supercells. Results further show that the magnitude of the low-level meridional water vapor flux in the moist tongue largely separates members with and without supercells, with water vapor flux differences of 12% leading to these different outcomes. Additional experiments that assimilate only radar or satellite observations show that both are important to predictions of the meridional water vapor flux. This analysis suggests that mesoscale environmental uncertainty remains a challenge that is difficult to overcome.

Significance Statement

Forecasts from operational numerical models are the foundation of weather forecasting. There are times when these models make forecasts that do not come true, such as 28 April 2019 when successive forecasts from the operational High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model predicted a supercell storm late in the day near Dodge City, Kansas, that subsequently was not observed. Reasons for this forecast error are explored using numerical experiments. Results suggest that relatively small changes to the prestorm environment led to large differences in the evolution of storms on this day. This result emphasizes the challenges to operational severe weather forecasting and the continued need for improved use of all available observations to better define the atmospheric state given to forecast models.
A Fatal Disaster: Accompanying Aortic Dissection Obscured by Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Ulkucu Attila , Altay Servet
Published: July 2023

The present study investigated the characteristics of rare but often fatal cases of acute coronary syndrome and aortic dissection and the factors affecting mortality. HEART score, aortic dissection detection risk score, and Global Registry of Acute Coronary Event (GRACE) Score were calculated by evaluating biochemical tests and symptoms/signs of the 20 patients who were admitted to our clinic with a preliminary diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction and subsequently diagnosed with aortic dissection. The assumption of normal distribution was checked with the Shapiro–Wilk test, and independent group comparisons were made with the t test or the Mann–Whitney U test. Relationships between qualitative variables were analyzed with chi-square tests. Relationships between quantitative variables were analyzed with Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficients. Patients with conditions like hypertension and diabetes are at higher risk for aortic dissection. We recommend the use of the GRACE Score with the risk parameters we have determined for the prediction of operative mortality. We suggest that the axillary region and antegrade cerebral perfusion may be preferred as the cannulation area in dissection repair. We emphasize preliminary risk assessment according to the aortic dissection detection risk score and remind physicians that ECG ST-T and troponin changes may be misleading.
Preliminary evaluation of the diagnostic performance of Roche Elecsys® active vitamin B12 versus total vitamin B12 for vitamin B12 deficiency screening
Authors: Guillerme Jennifer , Feugray Guillaume , Girot Hélène , Brunel Valéry , Muraine Muriel Quillard
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency is high in at-risk populations with sometimes irreversible consequences. Beside total B12 (TVB12), active B12 (AVB12) is a promising first-line marker. Only Abbott AVB12 assays were largely evaluated and generally demonstrated benefit in clinical practice. More recently developed Roche AVB12 still requires some investigations.

Objectives

Our study aimed to evaluate the Roche Elecsys® AVB12 immunoassay performance versus Roche Elecsys® TVB12 competition assay.

Design

and Methods: We included 175 patients at Rouen University Hospital who had a TVB12 value <300 pmol/L. We evaluated performance of AVB12 by comparing the results with TVB12 and MMA values in case of disagreement.

Results

Positive correlation was found between the AVB12 and TVB12. We found a disagreement between TVB12 and AVB12 in 18.8% of cases. Among 33 cases of disagreement, 76% had normal AVB12 but low TVB12, whereas 24% had low AVB12 and normal TVB12. Thirty-one MMA determinations were performed: 71% showed agreement between MMA and AVB12, versus 29% between MMA and TVB12. TVB12 reported a sensitivity (Se) at 66.7%, specificity (Sp) at 20%, positive predictive value (PPV) at 16.7% and negative predictive value (NPV) at 71.4% for the prediction of MMA elevation. We determined an optimized cut-off value of 45.5 pmol/L for AVB12, which reported a Se 66.7%, Sp 60%, PPV 30.7%, and NPV 88.9%.

Conclusions

Our results provide preliminary evidence that Roche AVB12 may offer better discrimination than Roche TVB12 in the diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency. Further more detailed evaluation is warranted.
Life on the Road: Fear of Crime Among Nomads
Authors: Whaley Rachel Bridges , Abbott Jessica
Published: July 2023

People who live and travel in recreational or retrofitted vehicles experience very high victimization prevalence rates. The current study provides the first examination of fear of crime and perceived risk of victimization among Nomads and members of the Vanlife community. Fear of crime is quite high in this community. Analyses suggest the vulnerability-fear perspective applies to this subpopulation with important exceptions regarding age and education. Further, direct victimization and perceived risk hypotheses are supported. Disaggregated analyses illuminate differences for year-round Nomads versus part-timers. Analyses support the distinction between fear of crime and perceived risk for this subpopulation but raise questions about how lifestyles of Nomads shape fear and how perceived risk and prior victimizations shape behaviors. Directions for future research and practical implications are offered.
Changes in Navigation Controls and Field-of-View Modes Affect Cybersickness Severity and Spatiotemporal Gait Patterns After Exposure to Virtual Environments
Authors: Lin Ming-I Brandon , Wu Bonnie , Cheng Shun-Wen
Published: July 2023

Objective

To examine the effects of navigation controls and field-of-view modes on cybersickness severity and gait dynamics after cessation of exposure to a virtual environment (VE).

Background

The applications of virtual reality are increasing in various fields; however, whether changes in interaction techniques and visual contents could mitigate the potential gait disturbance following VE exposure remains unclear.

Method

Thirty healthy adults wore a head-mounted display to complete six sessions of 12-min run-and-gun tasks using different navigation controls (gamepad, head, natural) and field-of-view modes (full, restricted). Forward and backward walking tasks were performed before and after VE exposure. The degrees of cybersickness and presence were evaluated using questionnaires, along with the in-session task performance. Spatiotemporal gait measures and their variabilities were calculated for each walking task.

Results

The participants experienced less cybersickness with the head and natural controls than with the gamepad. Natural control, based on matching body movements, was associated with the highest degree of presence and best performance. VE navigation using the gamepad showed reduced cadences and increased stride times during postexposure forward-walking tasks. When the VE was presented via the restricted field-of-view mode, increased gait variabilities were observed from backward-walking tasks after VE exposure.

Conclusion

Body movement-based navigation controls may alleviate cybersickness. We observed gait adaptation during both ambulation tasks, which was influenced by the navigation control method and field-of-view mode.

Application

This study provides the first evidence for gait adaptation during balance-demanding tasks after VE exposure, which is valuable for designing guidelines for virtual reality interactions.
Transformation: From (Trans-)Gender Roles to Profiles
Authors: Moeller Hans-Georg , D’Ambrosio Paul J. , Stirn Aglaja , Ponseti Jorge
Published: July 2023

Combining a philosophical approach with empirical psychology, this essay investigates the relationship between “profilicity,” the formation of identity in orientation to profiles, and gender identity. We discuss empirical research that indicates a significant difference between transgender identity in traditional (collectivist) and modern (individualist) societies. We suggest that this difference is due to a shift in the formation of gender identity away from gender roles and toward gender profiles. To substantiate this claim, we first outline a basic theoretical terminology of identity and gender. Then, we critically analyze the representation of gender, including transgender, in contemporary popular culture. Finally—with a descriptive, but not therapeutic intention—we discuss several case studies of identity formation of transgender people. We conclude that theoretical problems arising from historical shifts in gender identity formation, including transgender identity formation, are best conceptualized in terms of profilicity rather than in the still prevailing semantics of authenticity.
Development and Validation of the High Performance Volleyball Self-Efficacy Scale
Authors: Machado Thais do A. , Balaguer Isabel , Prado-Gascó Vicente Javier , Muiños Paula , Lirani Luciana da S. , Perez Arthur Daniel , Stefanello Joice Mara
Published: July 2023

In this study, we aimed to develop and psychometrically examine a self-efficacy scale for high-performance volleyball athletes. A literature review and interviews with 16 experts led to construction of item content. A preliminary version of the scale was then administered to 24 high-performing adult athletes, followed by administration of the scale to 300 Brazilian high-performing volleyball athletes ( M age = 24.88, SD = 5.51 years; 55% male; 45% female). The definitive model contained 19 items, grouped into three factors (Self-Efficacy in the Game, Defensive Self-Efficacy in Volleyball, and Offensive Self-Efficacy in Volleyball). A Global Self-Efficacy score was evaluated through several statistical procedures that provided evidence of an adequate fit of the model to the data, and we showed internal reliability of the item content and invariance of the instrument for both sexes. These results support the instrument’s test content, internal structure, and relation to other variables, indicating that the Volleyball Self-Efficacy Scale (VSES) can now be used to assess the self-efficacy of high performing Brazilian volleyball athletes.
Hiring police applicants who support far-left or far-right organizations: A qualitative exploration of New York State chiefs’ and administrators’ viewpoint
Authors: Phillips Scott W , Gayadeen S Marlon
Published: July 2023

This study is a qualitative exploration of the thoughts of police chiefs and upper-level police administrators in New York State regarding the hiring of applicants who hold left-wing or right-wing ideological perspectives. A near equal number of respondents indicated little hesitancy to hire, while others stating they should not hire such an applicant. Some respondents offered non-committal viewpoints. Most respondents provided a more thoughtful response, indicating the complexity of this issue for police agencies. The overall conclusion is that employing officers who hold biased opinions can impact police legitimacy. Policy implications and considerations for future research are discussed.
Predicting Academic Self-Efficacy Based on Self-Directed Learning and Future Time Perspective
Authors: Karataş Kasım , Arpaci Ibrahim , Süer Sedef
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between teacher candidates’ academic self-efficacy, self-directed learning, and future time perspective. A dual-stage analytical approach, utilizing both traditional structural equation modeling (SEM) and Machine Learning Classification Algorithms, was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. The study included a sample of 879 teacher candidates. The SEM analysis revealed that self-directed learning had a significant positive effect on academic self-efficacy. Furthermore, future time perspective was found to significantly predict academic self-efficacy. The combined endogenous constructs accounted for a substantial portion of the explained variance. Additionally, the study employed LMT and Multiclass classifiers from Machine Learning algorithms to predict academic self-efficacy. In summary, the findings of this study suggest that self-directed learning and future time perspective are significant factors in predicting teacher candidates’ academic self-efficacy. The study utilized both traditional SEM and Machine Learning algorithms to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relationships between these variables.
Personality traits and attitude towards euthanasia among medical students in Serbia
Authors: Ristic Ivan , Ignjatovic-Ristic Dragana , Gazibara Tatjana
Published: July 2023

Objective

Various factors may influence the attitudes of medical students towards euthanasia, including personal values, beliefs, and personality traits. The objective of this study was to examine the attitudes of 2nd and 5th year medical students about euthanasia and the relationship between these attitudes and students' personality traits.

Methods

Medical students from the Universities of Kragujevac and Belgrade, Serbia, participated in this study. A questionnaire was administered assessing attitudes toward euthanasia and student personality traits (honesty–humility, emotionality, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness using the HEXACO-60).

Results

More than 50% of students in the second year and 60% of students in the fifth year were supportive of euthanasia. Students in the 5th year were 2.5 times more likely to express a concern that euthanasia needs to be clearly regulated by law compared to students in the second year. Adjusted analyses indicated that lower levels of honesty–humility and emotionality were positively correlated with students' belief that euthanasia should be legalized.

Conclusion

Many medical students in Serbia have a positive attitude towards euthanasia. It is important to consider the possible influences of culture, religion, and the law on attitudes towards euthanasia. Undergraduate medical training should include more hours dedicated to palliative care and end-of-life topics to raise awareness of patients' preferences in this regard.
Envy: Differences between the West and Africa
Authors: Harries Jim
Published: July 2023

Envy is perceived and handled differently in the West than in Africa. Defined as “a negative . . . response to someone else’s superior quality,” envy is largely considered psychological in the West, and is often suppressed to avoid the stigma of a negative “emotion.” In contrast, Africans often express envy openly, at least to outsiders. Open expression of envious desire for what the West has underlies contemporary formal education in Africa, that as a result has little local fit. Unlike in the West, envy in Africa translates into witchcraft. My experience in Africa tells me that this is not magical or supernatural in the western sense of these terms, but rather is a way of responding to powerful and potentially destructive envy. Freedom from envy comes through faith in Christ, thus making clear the need for mission, discipleship, and culturally relevant theological education. My observations on envy in Africa are based on my own experience—born and reared in a White British community but having participated in village life in East Africa using indigenous languages, from 1988 to date, in the course of missionary work. Being deeply a “westerner,” with profound exposure to Africa, enables my translating what is less known in the West (African ways of life) into the “familiar,” that is, western scholarship. This is on the basis that good translation should always be into what is “known”. Although geographically and historically my exposure to African ways of life is very limited, I am inclined to refer to “Africans” rather than more specific ethnicities (tribes) that I know well, so as not to imply that the people whom I have gotten to know over many decades through closely sharing in their lives are uniquely peculiar.
A Large Thyroid Goiter in a Newborn With Congenital Hypothyroidism: Timeline for Decrease in Size of Thyroid
Authors: July O’Brien Kaitlin , Ceremsak John J. , Gallant Jean-Nicolas , Ma Connie , Morris Emily A. , Grace Matthew R. , Zuckerwise Lisa C , Gregory Justin M. , Belcher Ryan H.
Published: July 2023

Congenital hypothyroidism rarely causes a clinically significant neck mass in newborns. We present the case of a newborn with congenital hypothyroidism and significantly enlarged goiter and discuss imaging considerations and medical and surgical management. This infant was prenatally discovered to have a midline neck mass on 28 week ultrasound measuring 6.0 cm × 3.4 cm × 5.8 cm. Diagnostic cordocentesis demonstrated elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH, 361 µIU/mL). Maternal evaluation for thyroid disease and antithyroid antibodies was negative. A Cesarean section at 38 weeks gestation was recommended due to hyperextension of the fetal neck. The infant was intubated for respiratory distress. Postnatal magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 5.5 cm × 4.4 cm × 7.6 cm goiter and laboratory studies confirmed the diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism (TSH 16.7 µIU/mL). Treatment was initiated with intravenous levothyroxine and transitioned to oral supplementation. Serial ultrasounds showed decreased goiter volume over several weeks, with recent volume per lobe being 22% and 44% of original volume. This case demonstrates the importance of prompt diagnosis and initiation of thyroid hormone replacement, allowing for significant goiter regression without surgical intervention and ensuring normal growth and neurodevelopmental outcome. Surgical management should be considered for those with persistent compressive symptoms despite optimal medical management.
Serum zinc levels in youth with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder and anorexia nervosa: Clinical correlation with weight and psychopathology
Authors: Mahr Fauzia , Billman Miller Marley G , Quaill Marlana A , Ryan Sheryl A , Nadeem Tania
Published: July 2023

Background

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) and anorexia nervosa (AN) are characterized by restrictive eating and micronutrient deficiencies. While zinc deficiency has been identified in AN, zinc level in ARFID has not been systematically assessed.

Aim

Examine serum zinc levels and their association with eating pathology, psychopathology, and executive functioning in youth with ARFID and AN.

Methods

This study included 28 adolescents ( Mage = 13, 75% female) receiving treatment for ARFID ( n = 13) and AN ( n = 15). Demographic data and intake mood metrics were obtained via chart review. Participants completed the Delis–Kaplan Executive Functioning Systems and their mothers completed the behavior rating inventory of executive function (BRIEF-2). Zinc level was collected via blood draw. Independent samples t-tests, Pearson's chi-square, and Pearson's correlations were used to evaluate between-group differences and the relationship between zinc level and clinical correlates.

Results

No between-groups differences emerged in zinc levels, though half the sample demonstrated low levels for their ages. No significant correlations were found between zinc level and demographic data, mood measures, or executive functioning tasks. AN had relatively lower zinc levels, higher eating pathology, and anxiety, though ARFID had a longer duration of illness. Correlations between zinc and BRIEF-2 scores were mixed.

Conclusion

This is the first study to systematically assess zinc levels in ARFID. While there were no group differences for zinc levels, 50% of the sample had low zinc levels. Zinc level did not correlate with higher psychopathology. Monitoring zinc levels throughout treatment in the context of anabolic processes can inform treatment strategies.
Effect of small amount of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes on the properties of rigid polyisocyanurate and polyurethane foam composites
Authors: Vlasov Ruslan , Ryabova Daria , Zeynalova Sakina , Nazmutdinov Marcel , Ryabov Sergey
Published: July 2023

Using small amounts of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) functionalized with carboxyl groups, methyldiethanolamine and triethanolamine (from 0.005 to 0.1%), a series of rigid composite polyurethane-polyisocyanurate (PIR) and polyurethane (PUR) foams was obtained. The influence of these additives on the morphology of the cellular structure of the synthesized foams, as well as the change in their physical-mechanical and thermophysical characteristics, was analyzed. The effect of additions of functionalized MWCNTs on the change in compressive strength, Young’s modulus, thermal conductivity index, and mass loss during combustion of the synthesized foams has been studied. Based on the results obtained, the introduction of small amounts (up to 0.05%) of functionalized nanotubes in the foam composition improves the characteristics described above. The greatest effect was achieved using 0.05% carboxylated MWCNTs functionalized with triethanolamine.
Role of enhancement modifications in evaluating tumor response to immunotherapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Dionese Michele , Pierantoni Francesco , Bezzon Elisabetta , Cumerlato Enrico , Bimbatti Davide , Basso Umberto , Maruzzo Marco , Zagonel Vittorina
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Evaluation of tumor response according only to dimensional criteria may underestimate treatment benefit in patients treated for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). In this study we evaluated the role of lesion enhancement modifications and Choi criteria in patients affected by renal cell carcinoma treated with immunotherapy.

Methods:

We collected data of 60 consecutive patients (with a total of 154 measurable lesions) treated with immunotherapy (nivolumab or ipilimumab plus nivolumab) at a single Institution. We evaluated tumour response using both RECIST1.1 criteria and Choi criteria at the first radiological assessment; we subsequently associated response with progression free survival and overall survival.

Results:

Choi criteria found a higher rate of objective response compared to RECIST criteria (38.3% vs 18.3%). An objective response according to both criteria was associated with longer progression free survival and overall survival. Response rate for Choi did not vary according to lesion site.

Conclusion:

Choi criteria seemed to be able to predict clinical benefit in a higher proportion of patients with renal cell carcinoma treated with immunotherapy than RECIST criteria. Partial response according to RECIST was confirmed as a predictor of longer progression-free survival and overall survival.