bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Return of showjumping horses to sporting activity after colic surgery
Authors: Giusto Gessica , Gandini Marco
Published: August 2024

Background

The return to performance after colic surgery is crucial for competition horses. While studies have investigated racehorse performance following colic surgery by analysing racing participation and earnings, this approach does not apply to showjumping horses, leaving a gap in the literature regarding their objective performance evaluation.

Objectives

To assess the short‐ and long‐term survival and return to performance in showjumping horses after colic surgery.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Medical records of horses with acute colic requiring surgical treatment were analysed, and data for showjumping horses (Group 1) were retrieved. Telephone follow‐ups were conducted and national competition databases were used to collect pre‐ and postoperative showjumping competition entries for Group 1 and for randomly selected horses (Group 2) participating in the same competitions as a comparison group.

Results

Of 253 horses undergoing colic surgery, 96 were recorded as showjumpers. The median long‐term survival was 2.73 (0.01–6.14) years. Among these horses, 59 were competing at the time of surgery, and of these, 46 (78%) returned to competition and 41 (89.1%) competed at the same or higher level, while 5 (10.9%) competed at a lower level. At a 2‐year follow‐up, 63.6% of the showjumping horses that underwent colic surgery were alive. No significant differences were observed in the level of competition and career length between horses, which underwent colic surgery, and the randomly selected comparison group.

Main limitations

Small sample size and a single‐centre design.

Conclusions

Showjumping horses can make a successful return to competition after colic surgery, with the majority performing at the same or higher level as before the procedure.
A bilevel approach to reduce peak load of community microgrid with distributed generators
Authors: Woo Young‐Bin , Moon Ilkyeong
Published: August 2024

Decentralized energy systems can be an alternative to stabilizing the power system in a rapidly changing power market environment. In this regard, it is very important to level the significant gap between electricity loads and power generation, which is caused by expanding renewable energy resources. This study investigates an electricity control strategy to encourage forming a microgrid and to level the load profile that the microgrid optimizes based on its individual objective. To address the problems encountered by two players at different decision levels, this study introduces a bilevel optimization model that considers two players’ objectives. In the proposed model, the first player is called the grid system operator, and the decisions of the player are subsidy rates for distributed generators and an energy storage system. The second player is called the community microgrid, and the major decisions of the player are the configuration and operation of the microgrid. To solve the problem, an efficient algorithm is developed based on Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) conditions and a decomposition approach. Numerical experiments show that the peak load can be reduced by setting an adequate subsidy rate.
Investigating the impact of different cleaning techniques on bond strength between resin cement and zirconia and the resulting physical and chemical surface alterations
Authors: Sukcheep Chompunuch , Thammajaruk Putsadeeporn , Guazzato Massimiliano
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of cleaning methods and thermocycling on the micro‐tensile bond strength between resin cement and contaminated zirconia and to characterize the physicochemical alterations at the zirconia surface resulting from contaminants and subsequent application of cleaning methods.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐two alumina air‐abraded zirconia blocks were divided into eight groups: (i) uncontaminated control followed by methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (MDP) primer (G‐Multi Primer) application (CON). In groups ii–viii, the blocks were contaminated with saliva and silicone disclosing agents, followed by cleaning as follows: (ii) MDP primer applied, followed by contamination (GMP1); (iii) MDP primer applied before and after contamination (GMP2); (iv) cleaning with alumina air‐abrasion (APA); (v) cleaning with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl); (vi) cleaning with Ivoclean (IVC); (vii) cleaning with ZirClean (ZC); and (viii) cleaning with Katana Cleaner (KC). After cleaning, the zirconia blocks in groups iv–viii were applied with MDP primer. The blocks in each group were cemented together with resin cement (G‐Cem Linkforce). Subsequently, each bonded zirconia block was sectioned using a water‐cooled diamond saw into microsticks (1 × 1 × 9 mm3). Micro‐tensile bond strength was measured after either 24 h or 10,000 thermal cycles (n = 20/subgroup). Data were analyzed using two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by one‐way ANOVA, and Tukey's post‐hoc test. The contact angle measurements, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), and Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer were used for physiochemical evaluation.

Results

After 24 h of water storage, the highest bond strength was observed in the CON, NaOCl, APA, and GMP2 groups. After thermocycling, the bond strength significantly decreased in all groups except the GMP2 group, which maintained the highest bond strength. Commercial ceramic cleaning agents (IVC, ZC, and KC groups) exhibited lower bond strengths than the CON groups in both aging conditions.

Conclusions

The application of MDP primer before and after contamination is a promising cleaning protocol for removing saliva and silicone disclosing agent contaminants from zirconia surfaces. This approach achieved the highest bond strength and maintained it even after artificial aging through thermocycling.
Parental perceptions of an oral health promotion program in early childhood education and care settings: A qualitative study
Authors: Heller Lauren Suzanne , Pithavadian Rashmi , Micheal Sowbhagya , Chandio Navira , Sanagavarapu Prathyusha , Parmar Jinal , Cartwright Susan , Slack‐Smith Linda , Arora Amit
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Early Childhood Caries is a global health problem. The Bright Smiles Bright Futures (BSBF) program seeks to equip educators, children, and parents with skills and knowledge about oral health promotion habits early in life. The aim of this study was to examine parental perceptions of the BSBF program and identify key facilitators and barriers for its implementation.

Methods

Twelve mothers of children who participated in the BSBF program in five Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) settings in NSW, Australia were recruited in this qualitative study. Data were collected via focus groups and interviews, transcribed verbatim and coded to categorize for inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Five major themes emerged: Promoters of the BSBF oral health program, barriers to the BSBF oral health program implementation and participation, online resources, impact of the BSBF oral health program, and strategies for enhancing the BSBF oral health program. While participants reported that the program encouraged their children's toothbrushing, they found issues with the program's materials, ECEC center attendance, and communication about the oral health program with their children. The program improved message retention, attitudes, routines, and family perceptions toward oral health. Participants recommended oral health literacy, changed delivery formats, increased dental access, and inclusion of interactive elements to enhance the program.

Conclusions

The findings from this study provide insight to improve parents' experiences and engagement in oral health promotion. This can help to raise awareness of the importance of child oral health among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public to inform public health policy discussions.
Host diet drives gut microbiome convergence between coral reef fishes and mammals
Authors: Degregori Samuel , Schiettekatte Nina M. D. , Casey Jordan M. , Brandl Simon J. , Mercière Alexandre , Amato Katherine R. , Mazel Florent , Parravicini Valeriano , Barber Paul H.
Published: August 2024

Animal gut microbiomes are critical to host physiology and fitness. The gut microbiomes of fishes—the most abundant and diverse vertebrate clade—have received little attention relative to other clades. Coral reef fishes, in particular, make up a wide range of evolutionary histories and feeding ecologies that are likely associated with gut microbiome diversity. The repeated evolution of herbivory in fishes and mammals also allows us to examine microbiome similarity in relationship to diet across the entire vertebrate tree of life. Here, we generate a large coral reef fish gut microbiome dataset (n = 499 samples, 19 species) and combine it with a diverse aggregation of public microbiome data (n = 447) to show that host diet drives significant convergence between coral reef fish and mammalian gut microbiomes. We demonstrate that this similarity is largely driven by carnivory and herbivory and that herbivorous and carnivorous hosts exhibit distinct microbial compositions across fish and mammals. We also show that fish and mammal gut microbiomes share prominent microbial taxa, including Ruminoccocus spp. and Akkermansia spp., and predicted metabolic pathways. Despite the major evolutionary and ecological differences between fishes and mammals, our results reveal that their gut microbiomes undergo similar dietary selective pressures. Thus, diet, in addition to phylosymbiosis must be considered even when comparing the gut microbiomes of distantly related hosts.
Physiological trait coordination and variability across and within three Pinus species
Authors: Augustine Steven P. , McCulloh Katherine A.
Published: August 2024

Studies have explored how traits separate plants ecologically and the trade‐offs that underpin this separation. However, uncertainty remains as to the taxonomic scale at which traits can predictably separate species. We studied how physiological traits separated three Pinus (Pinus banksiana, Pinus resinosa, and Pinus strobus) species across three sites.

We collected traits from four common leaf and branch measurements (light–response curves, CO2–response curves, pressure–volume curves, and hydraulic vulnerability curves) across each species and site. While common, these measurements are not typically measured together due to logistical constraints.

Few traits varied across species and sites as expected given the ecological preferences of the species and environmental site characteristics. Some trait trade‐offs present at broad taxonomic scales were observed across the three species, but most were absent within species. Certain trade‐offs contrasted expectations observed at broader scales but followed expectations given the species' ecological preferences.

We emphasize the need to both clarify why certain traits are being studied, as variation in unexpected but ecologically meaningful ways often occurs and certain traits might not vary substantially within a given lineage (e.g. hydraulic vulnerability in Pinus), highlighting the role a trait selection in trait ecology.
Ad fontes: divergence‐time estimation and the age of angiosperms
Authors: Smith Stephen A. , Beaulieu Jeremy M.
Published: August 2024

Accurate divergence times are essential for interpreting and understanding the context in which lineages have evolved. Over the past several decades, debates have surrounded the discrepancies between the inferred molecular ages of crown angiosperms, often estimated from the Late Jurassic into the Permian, and the fossil record, placing angiosperms in the Early Cretaceous. That crown angiosperms could have emerged as early as the Permian or even the Triassic would have major implications for the paleoecological context of the origin of one of the most consequential clades in the tree of life. Here, we argue, and demonstrate through simulations, that the older ages inferred from molecular data and relaxed‐clock models are misled by lineage‐specific rate heterogeneity resulting from life history changes that occurred several times throughout the evolution of vascular plants. To overcome persistent discrepancies in age estimates, more biologically informed and realistic models should be developed, and our results should be considered in the context of their biological implications before we accept inferences that are a major departure from our strongest evidence.
A narrative review on the use of autologous platelet concentrates during alveolar bone augmentation: Horizontal (simultaneous/staged) & vertical (simultaneous/staged)
Authors: Blanco J. , Caramês J. , Quirynen M.
Published: August 2024

This review aimed to answer the general question of whether autologous platelet concentrates (APCs, an autologous blood‐derivative) can improve the outcome of alveolar bone augmentation. Three clinical scenarios were assessed: horizontal/vertical bone augmentation in combination with implant placement (simultaneous approach), horizontal bone augmentation in a staged approach, and vertical bone augmentation in a staged approach. An electronic literature search strategy was conducted for each review from the outset to July 1st, 2023. The titles and abstracts (when available) of all identified studies were screened and imported into a database. If articles appeared to meet the inclusion criteria or their title and abstract had insufficient data, the full text was obtained to make the final decision. All studies that met the inclusion criteria underwent data extraction. Moreover, the references of the identified papers were screened for additional studies. After title and abstract screening and selection criteria application, 14 clinical studies were included for the qualitative analysis: seven for horizontal/vertical bone augmentation in a simultaneous approach, five for horizontal bone augmentation in a staged approach, and two for vertical bone augmentation in a staged approach. There is scarce literature regarding the added value of APCs in bone augmentation, and most studies had small sample sizes, a lack of standardized protocols, and different outcome variables, which makes comparisons between studies difficult. Out of the 14 studies, four were well‐designed randomized clinical trials, where we could find better results for the APCs groups. Most studies, particularly comparative and well‐designed studies, demonstrated beneficial and promising results of using APCs in alveolar bone augmentation. However, before high‐level evidence‐based conclusions can be drawn, more randomized clinical trials must compare the benefits of adding APCs to the gold‐standard approach.
Intracellular Trafficking Defects in Congenital Intestinal and Hepatic Diseases
Authors: Szabó Luca , Pollio Adam R. , Vogel Georg Friedrich
Published: August 2024

Enterocytes and liver cells fulfill important metabolic and barrier functions and are responsible for crucial vectorial secretive and absorptive processes. To date, genetic diseases affecting metabolic enzymes or transmembrane transporters in the intestine and the liver are better comprehended than mutations affecting intracellular trafficking. In this review, we explore the emerging knowledge on intracellular trafficking defects and their clinical manifestations in both the intestine and the liver. We provide a detailed overview including more investigated diseases such as the canonical, variant and associated forms of microvillus inclusion disease, as well as recently described pathologies, highlighting the complexity and disease relevance of several trafficking pathways. We give examples of how intracellular trafficking hubs, such as the apical recycling endosome system, the trans‐Golgi network, lysosomes, or the Golgi‐to‐endoplasmic reticulum transport are involved in the pathomechanism and lead to disease. Ultimately, understanding these processes could spark novel therapeutic approaches, which would greatly improve the quality of life of the affected patients.
Forecasting Loan Consented for Vehicle Purchase in Malaysia
Authors: Kamisan Nur Arina Bazilah , Aminudin Jafry Naqibah , Norrulashikin Siti Mariam
Published: August 2024

Banks are among the institutions that contribute significantly to the country's economic development. Thus, banking sectors play a critical role in the development of the country's economy. Providing credit or a loan is one of the most important services that any bank can do. In this study, a hybrid model was developed, and several existing time series models, such as the seasonal auto regressive integrated moving average (SARIMA), multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network and a hybrid model were used to forecast the loans approved for purchase of vehicle in Malaysia. The hybrid model is a combination of linear and nonlinear model which is combination of Holt-Winter’s and single exponential smoothing models. Mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and root mean square error (RMSE) are used to assess the accuracy of the forecast. From the findings, the artificial neural network gives the best forecast compared to the other two models. In conclusion, the advanced model such as MLP gives better forecast compared to the SARIMA and hybrid model. This finding could help bank institution make decision for the future pattern of the loan consent for vehicle purchase.
Drying Kinetics and Quality Assessment of Noodles from Piper sarmentosum Roxb. (Kaduk) Leaves
Authors: Jinin Nur Ainani Zuyyin , Benjamin Mohammad Amil Zulhilmi , Awang Mohd Azrie
Published: August 2024

Piper sarmentosum Roxb., commonly known as ‘Kaduk’, is a plant that holds significant importance in various cultures for its culinary and medicinal properties in Southeast Asia. The drying behaviour of P. sarmentosum leaf-based noodles (PSLN) was represented by a thin-layer drying kinetic model. The PSLN underwent drying at various temperatures ranging from 40 to 80 °C, with an examination of six different drying kinetic models: Lewis, Page, Henderson-Pabis, two-term exponential, Logarithmic, and Midilli and Kucuk. Subsequently, the PSLN extract was analysed for total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), as well as antioxidant activity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Evaluation of the appropriate drying kinetic model included the calculation of the coefficient of determination, as well as root mean square error, and chi-square values. Among the six models, the Midilli and Kucuk model emerged as the most accurate in describing the drying kinetics for PSLN, as indicated by its superior goodness of fit. The effective moisture diffusivity ranged from 1.22 ×  to 4.86 ×  , with an activation energy of 35.86 kJ/mol. PSLN dried at 50 °C exhibited higher TPC and TFC values of 121.60 ± 0.20 mg GAE/g dry extract and 2.05 ± 0.00 mg QE/g dry extract, respectively, compared to other temperatures. Furthermore, the DPPH activity in the PSLN exhibited an inhibition value of 92.49 ± 0.03%. Overall, drying PSLN products at 50 °C is recommended for retaining phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity.
Comparative Study of the Optoelectronic, Reactivity Descriptors, and Thermodynamic Properties for Derivatives of Fluorene, and its Hetero-Analogous (Si, NH, O, S, and Se) by Employing the DFT and TD-DFT Approaches
Authors: Manisha  , Dangi Vijay , Arya Brahamdutt
Published: August 2024

A comparative study of the optoelectronic, reactivity descriptors, and thermodynamic properties for derivatives of fluorene, and its hetero - analogous (Si, NH, O, S, and Se) was performed by employing the DFT and TD-DFT approaches in the gaseous state. Based on the DFT approach, the thermodynamic properties and molecular electrostatic potential were computed while based on the TD-DFT approach, optoelectronic properties were calculated by employing the B3LYP/6-311(d,p) level.  The reactivity descriptors were calculated by using an electronic property (HOMO and LUMO energies). The calculated absorption values of investigated compounds are predicted to range from 330-643nm. Comparatively, all the investigated compounds are expected used in the field of designing new types of optoelectronic materials.
A Mathematical Model for Green Leaves Diet Using Ranking of Tridecagonal Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Manoj A Britto , T Stalin , R Balakumar , M Balamurugan , P N Kanimalar
Published: August 2024

This study presents a new way of ranking transportation options using tridecagonal fuzzy numbers. This approach takes into account factors such as demand, supply, and transportation costs, and aims to provide a more optimized solution for these fuzzy environments. With the rising importance of healthy eating habits, particularly emphasizing green leafy vegetables, devising an effective dietary plan becomes imperative. Traditional approaches often overlook the inherent uncertainty and fuzziness in dietary preferences and nutritional requirements. In this context, tridecagonal fuzzy numbers offer a robust framework to represent and analyze uncertain dietary preferences. Our ultimate goal is to promote a green leaf diet that is both affordable and widely available, while also improving the overall health and well-being of the general public. This research contributes to the advancement of mathematical modelling in nutrition science, offering a valuable tool for promoting healthier dietary choices and lifestyle habits.
A Graph-Theoretic Approach for Designing Cable Routes in Buildings
Authors: Sakaguchi Tatsuhiko , Kobayashi Takeru
Published: August 2024

To reliably supply electricity to each room in a building, electrical cable wiring is essential. Electrical cables must be routed to avoid deterioration of building strength and fire prevention equipment functions. However, if the length of the cable is long, a voltage drop will occur, so it is necessary to design the shortest cable route. Electrical cables are usually installed in the ceiling, so other equipment such as ducts and water pipes should also be avoided. As a result, cable routes tend to be quite complex. Currently, skilled engineers are designing the cable route based on their experience. However, in Japan, a shortage of human resources among construction companies become a major issue, and electrical equipment construction is no exception. Therefore, a system that supports the design of cable routes is desired. In this research, to support the cable route design for one floor of a building, we propose a graph-theoretic approach.
Machine Learning-Enhanced Model Predictive Control for Incremental Bending of Skeletal Fixation Plates
Authors: Chen Yixue , Zhang Jianjing , Babinec Tyler , Thurston Brian , Daehn Glenn , Dean David , Loparo Kenneth , Hoelzle David , Gao Robert X.
Published: August 2024

Skeletal fixation plates are essential components in craniomaxillofacial (CMF) reconstructive surgery to connect skeletal disunions. To ensure that these plates achieve geometric conformity to the CMF skeleton of individual patients, a pre-operative procedure involving manual plate bending is traditionally required. However, manual adjustment of the fixation plate can be time-consuming and is prone to geometric error due to the springback effect and human inspection limitations. This work represents a first step towards autonomous incremental plate bending for CMF reconstructive surgery through machine learning-enabled springback prediction and feedback bending control. Specifically, a Gaussian process is first investigated to complement the physics-based Gardiner equation to improve the accuracy of springback effect estimation, which is then incorporated into nonlinear model predictive controller to determine the optimal sequence of bending inputs to achieve geometric conformity. Evaluation using a simulated environment for bending confirms the effectiveness of the developed approach.
Socialization Into and Through Doctoral Programs in Adapted Physical Activity
Authors: Malinowski Paul R. , Wilson Wesley J. , Warner Paul H. , Trad Alyssa M. , Rifenburg Peter , Richards Kevin Andrew
Published: August 2024

This study examined doctoral students’ occupational socialization experiences in U.S. adapted physical activity doctoral programs. Twenty-eight doctoral students were recruited and participated in semistructured, in-depth interviews. Interview transcripts were analyzed through a collaborative qualitative analysis, which resulted in the construction of four themes: (a) early socialization experiences foster a positive, but limited impression of physical education and physical activity; (b) doctoral education is pursued to have a greater impact on the disability community; (c) relationships with socializing agents provide support during doctoral education; and (d) coursework and learning in the community facilitate preparation for faculty roles. The findings indicate that there are several similarities between doctoral students and their peers in other doctoral degree programs. Some of these similarities point to issues that may concern prospective doctoral students and faculty members in adapted physical activity terminal degree programs.
Marketing a Junior B Hockey Team After the Major-Junior Ontario Hockey League Relocates a Team to Your City: The Case of the Valley Brook Barons
Authors: Hyatt Craig , Chard Chris , Burton Nicholas
Published: August 2024

After a major-junior hockey team relocates to their city, the well-established Junior B Valley Brook Barons hockey team’s attendance dropped 30% to only 350 fans per game, leading to a financial loss for the season. For the team to break even again, their Business Manager believes they need to restore their per-game attendance back to 500 fans. Consequently, she wants to implement a new marketing plan before the next season begins. She recognizes the opportunity of targeting their current and potential new market segments. Despite the urgency, the team’s owner will only budget $5,000 to implement a new marketing plan. Students are required to conduct a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis, segment the market, analyze the five Ps of the marketing mix, pick one or more target markets, and develop marketing tactics that can be implemented on a very tight budget.
Are We Really That Inclusive? An Examination of the Performance of Masculinities in Rugby Union Clubs in England, Australia, and Aotearoa/New Zealand
Authors: Pringle Richard
Published: August 2024

Through qualitative interviews with rugby players and coaches from England, Australia, and Aotearoa/New Zealand, this study examined whether players were now performing a more caring and respectful form of masculinity, as inclusive masculinity theorists have proposed. Results illustrated that players gained pleasure from linking themselves to hypermasculine performances through celebration of violence, drunkenness, and overt displays of heteronormativity. Moreover, the players distanced themselves from homosexual desire and displayed sexist tendencies. Yet, findings also revealed a modest reduction in on-field violence and greater acceptance of female rugby players and diverse sexualities. These modest and seemingly incoherent shifts in the performance of masculinities were traced to the effect of multiple sociostructural changes, such as rule changes, rather than a broad rise of an inclusive “form” of masculinity.
Morphine-responsive neurons that regulate mechanical antinociception
Authors: Fatt Michael P. , Zhang Ming-Dong , Kupari Jussi , Altınkök Müge , Yang Yunting , Hu Yizhou , Svenningsson Per , Ernfors Patrik
Published: August 2024

Opioids are widely used, effective analgesics to manage severe acute and chronic pain, although they have recently come under scrutiny because of epidemic levels of abuse. While these compounds act on numerous central and peripheral pain pathways, the neuroanatomical substrate for opioid analgesia is not fully understood. By means of single-cell transcriptomics and manipulation of morphine-responsive neurons, we have identified an ensemble of neurons in the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) that regulates mechanical nociception in mice. Among these, forced activation or silencing of excitatory RVM
BDNF
projection neurons mimicked or completely reversed morphine-induced mechanical antinociception, respectively, via a brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB)–dependent mechanism and activation of inhibitory spinal galanin-positive neurons. Our results reveal a specific RVM-spinal circuit that scales mechanical nociception whose function confers the antinociceptive properties of morphine.
Environmental impacts of genetically modified crops
Authors: Noack Frederik , Engist Dennis , Gantois Josephine , Gaur Vasundhara , Hyjazie Batoule F. , Larsen Ashley , M’Gonigle Leithen K. , Missirian Anouch , Qaim Matin , Sargent Risa D. , Souza-Rodrigues Eduardo , Kremen Claire
Published: August 2024

Genetically modified (GM) crops have been adopted by some of the world’s leading agricultural nations, but the full extent of their environmental impact remains largely unknown. Although concerns regarding the direct environmental effects of GM crops have declined, GM crops have led to indirect changes in agricultural practices, including pesticide use, agricultural expansion, and cropping patterns, with profound environmental implications. Recent studies paint a nuanced picture of these environmental impacts, with mixed effects of GM crop adoption on biodiversity, deforestation, and human health that vary with the GM trait and geographic scale. New GM or gene-edited crops with different traits would likely have different environmental and human health impacts.
The dawn of climate security
Threat Multiplier: Climate, Military Leadership, and the Fight for Global Security
Sherri Goodman
Island Press, 2024. 272 pp.
Authors: Ali Saleem H.
Published: August 2024

A policy pioneer’s memoir shows how climate science penetrated the defense sector
In Science Journals
Authors: Vignieri Sacha , Yeston Jake S. , Lavine Marc S. , Smith Jesse , Ash Caroline , Maroso Mattia , Yashinski Melisa , Fogg Christiana N. , Lopez Bianca , Hurtley Stella M. , Stern Peter , Smith Keith T. , Grocholski Brent , Wong Wei , Malo Courtney , Matsiko Amos
Published: August 2024

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Supplemental Material: A new Re-Os age constraint informs the dynamics of the Great Oxidation Event
Authors: Millikin Alexie E.G. , al. et
Published: August 2024

 Detailed analytical methods and sample information, supplemental stratigraphic context, data tables containing all geochronological, petrographic and whole-rock geochemical data.  
Long-term outcomes of smoker and drinker with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma after oesophagectomy: a large-scale propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Li Kexun , Lu Simiao , Li Changding , He Wenwu , Du Kunyi , Liu Kun , Wang Chenghao , Li Jialong , Wang Ziwei , Zhou Yehan , Lv Jiahua , Han Yongtao , Wang Qifeng , Leng Xuefeng , Peng Lin
Published: August 2024

Background

Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) poses a considerable health burden, particularly in regions such as East Asia. This study aims to investigate the long-term outcomes of OSCC patients who are smokers and drinkers.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective analysis, data from Sichuan Cancer Hospital and Institute Esophageal Cancer Case Management Database between January 2010 and December 2017 were examined. Patients were categorised into different groups based on their smoking and alcohol consumption history: None, Smoker, Non-Smoker, Smoke-Only, Drinker, Non-Drinker, Drinker-Only, and Both. Survival outcomes were compared between the groups using Kaplan-Meier analysis and propensity score matching (PSM). The primary outcome was overall survival (OS), measured from surgery to death or last follow-up in April 2022.

Results

The OS median was 45.4 months for all patients after oesophagectomy. Smokers had a significantly lower median OS of 36.6 months compared with Non-Smokers with 66.2 months (p<0.001). Similarly, Drinkers had a lower median OS of 34.4 months compared with Non-Drinkers with 52.0 months (p<0.001). PSM analysis confirmed the significant differences in OS between Smokers and Non-Smokers (p=0.002) and between Drinkers and Non-Drinkers (p=0.002). Subgroup analyses showed no significant differences in OS between Group Another and Group Both, Group Smoker-Only and Group Drinker-Only, and Group Drinker-Only and Group Both. (figure 4)

Conclusion

Smoking and drinking were associated with significantly reduced OS in patients. However, no significant differences were found between the subgroups of patients who only smoked, only drank, or engaged in both habits.
Cost-effectiveness of monitoring ocular hypertension based on a risk prediction tool
Authors: Wu Hangjian , Gazzard Gus , King Anthony , Morgan James , Wright David , Crabb David P , Takwoingi Yemisi , Azuara-Blanco Augusto , Watson Verity , Hernández Rodolfo
Published: August 2024

Background/Aims

To assess the cost-effectiveness of making treatment decisions for patients with ocular hypertension (OHT) based on a risk prediction (RP) tool in the United Kingdom.

Methods

A discrete event simulation model was constructed to compare the cost-effectiveness of an alternative care pathway in which the treatment decision was guided by a validated RP tool in secondary care against decision-making based on the standard care (SC). Individual patient sampling was used. Patients diagnosed with OHT and with an intraocular pressure of 24 mm Hg or over entered the model with a set of predefined individual characteristics related to their risk of conversion to glaucoma. These characteristics were retrieved from electronic medical records (n=5740). Different stages of glaucoma were modelled following conversion to glaucoma.

Results

Almost all (99%) patients were treated using the RP strategy, and less than half (47%) of the patients were treated using the SC strategy. The RP strategy produced higher cost but also higher quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) than the SC strategy. The RP strategy was cost-effective compared with the SC strategy in the base-case analysis, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio value of £11 522. The RP strategy had a 96% probability of being cost-effective under a £20 000 per QALY threshold.

Conclusions

The use of an RP tool for the management of patients with OHT is likely to be cost-effective. However, the generalisability of the result might be limited due to the high-risk nature of this cohort and the specific RP threshold used in the study.
Comparative effects of time-restricted feeding versus normal diet on physical performance and body composition in healthy adults with regular exercise habits: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wan Ke-wen , Dai Zi-han , Ho Robin Sze-tak , Wendy Yajun Huang , Wong Stephen Heung-Sang
Published: August 2024

Background

Time-restricted feeding (TRF), a form of intermittent fasting, limits daily caloric intake to a 6–12 hour window and has been shown to effectively promote weight loss and improve overall health. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of TRF versus normal diet (ND) on physical performance and body composition in healthy adults with regular exercise habits.

Methods

MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) electronic databases were searched for relevant records. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the duration of intervention and type of exercise. Physical performance was analysed using standardised mean differences (SMDs) and 95% CIs, whereas body composition parameters were analysed using mean differences (MDs) and 95% CIs. The quality of the included studies was examined using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool version 2.

Results

15 randomised controlled trials with 361 participants were included in the systematic review. In comparison with the ND group, TRF significantly decreased body weight (MD=−1.76 kg, 95% CI –3.40 to −0.13, p=0.03, I2=11.0%) and fat mass (MD=−1.24 kg, 95% CI −1.87 to −0.61, p<0.001, I2=0.0%). No between-group differences in physical performance-related variables and fat-free mass were found. According to the result of the risk-of-bias assessment, one study showed a low risk of bias, 13 showed some concerns, and one showed a high risk of bias.

Conclusion

TRF may be a valuable nutritional strategy to optimise body composition and maintain physical performance in healthy adults engaged in regular exercise.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022310140.
Examining the relationship between different physical activities and health and well-being in middle-aged and older men: an isotemporal substitution analysis
Authors: Blake Henry T , Crozier Alyson J , Buckley Jonathan D , Stenner Brad J
Published: August 2024

Background

Well-being declines during men’s middle years, and while physical activity (PA) can have a positive influence, the type of PA that provides the greatest benefit is not clear. This cross-sectional study explored how participation in different types of PA is associated with the well-being and self-rated health of middle-aged and older men.

Methods

A representative sample of South Australian adults completed a survey which assessed time spent in a variety of physical activities and self-rated health, life worth, life satisfaction and previous day happiness and anxiety. This study focused on a subsample of men≥35 years of age (n=1019). Partition and isotemporal substitution analyses were used to explore relationships between different types of PA and self-rated health and well-being outcomes.

Results

Weekly PA was positively associated with all outcomes among middle-aged men (35–64 years), but only with self-rated health and life satisfaction in older men (65+ years). Substituting out 30 mins of team sport participation with cycling, fitness/gym-based activities or other recreational activities was associated with higher self-rated health in middle-aged men. In older men, substituting 30 mins of dance with most other types of PA was related with greater self-rated health and life worth.

Conclusions

Total weekly PA was consistently related to the self-rated health and well-being of middle-aged men, but less so among older men. Despite some substitution effects for self-rated health, for the most part well-being was not influenced by activity substitution, particularly among middle-aged men.
Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in Takotsubo syndrome with cardiogenic shock: prognosis and treatment
Authors: Vila-Sanjuán Sofía , Nuñez-Gil Ivan Javier , Vedia Oscar , Corbi-Pascual Miguel , Salamanca Jorge , Martinez-Selles Manuel , Blanco Emilia , Almendro-Delia Manuel , Pérez-Castellanos Alberto , Martin-Garcia Agustin C , Tomasino Marco , Vazirani Ravi , Fernández-Cordón Clara , Duran Cambra Albert , Becerra-Muñoz Víctor Manuel , Guillén Marta , Reyes Juan Albistur , Uribarri Aitor
Published: August 2024

Background

Patients with Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) who develop cardiogenic shock may present with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO). The prognosis and treatment of this population have not been defined in previous studies. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical presentation, management, evolution and prognosis of a subgroup of patients with TTS and cardiogenic shock according to whether they present with LVOTO or not.

Methods

We analysed patients with TTS recruited from 2003 to 2022 in a multicentre registry. Patients were selected if they presented cardiogenic shock during their admission. This analysis was compared according to the presence or absence of LVOTO.

Results

322 patients were included, 58 (18%) of whom had LVOTO. The majority were treated with vasoactive and inotropic therapy (VIT) and its use was strongly associated with having LVOTO (77.6% vs 57.6%, p<0.001). Only five (3.3%) patients without LVOTO and two (4.4%) in the LVOTO group treated with VIT developed or worsened the obstruction. Furthermore, patients with LVOTO presented higher in-hospital complications including ventricular arrhythmias (15.5% vs 8.7%, p=0.017), major bleeding (13.8% vs 6.1%, p=0.042) and acute kidney failure (48.3% vs 28.4%, p=0.003). However, at both 90 days and 5 years, the cumulative incidence of all-cause death was not significantly different between the patients with and without LVOTO (HR 1.20, 95% CI 0.60 to 2.40 for 90 days, and HR 1.69, 95% CI 0.89 to 3.21 for 5 years).

Conclusions

LVOTO is not uncommon in patients with TTS and cardiogenic shock. It is associated with a more aggressive in-hospital course and our data is unable to rule out an association between the presence of LVOTO and long-term prognosis of patients with TTS. The development or worsening of LVOTO directly related to inotropic or vasoactive support was low.
Nanoparticles targeting immune checkpoint protein VISTA induce potent antitumor immunity
Authors: Moon Taylor J , Ta Hieu Minh , Bhalotia Anubhuti , Paulsen Kai E , Hutchinson Diarmuid W , Arkema Gabrielle M , Choi Andrew S , Haynie Michiko G , Ogunnaike Laolu , Dever Margee , Wang Li Lily , Karathanasis Efstathios
Published: August 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint protein V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) controls antitumor immunity and is a valuable target for cancer immunotherapy. Previous mechanistic studies have indicated that VISTA impairs the toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated activation of myeloid antigen-presenting cells, promoting the expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and suppressing tumor-reactive cytotoxic T cell function.

Methods

The aim of this study was to develop a dual-action lipid nanoparticle (dual-LNP) coloaded with VISTA-specific siRNA and TLR9 agonist CpG oligonucleotide. We used three murine preclinical tumor models, melanoma YUMM1.7, melanoma B16F10, and colon carcinoma MC38 to assess the functional synergy of the two cargoes of the dual LNP and therapeutic efficacy.

Results

The dual-LNP synergistically augmented antitumor immune responses and rejected large established tumors whereas LNPs containing VISTA siRNA or CpG alone were ineffective. In comparison with therapies using the soluble CpG and a VISTA-specific monoclonal antibody, the dual-LNP demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy yet with reduced systemic inflammatory cytokine production. In three murine models, the dual-LNP treatment achieved a high cure rate. Tumor rejection was associated with influx of immune cells to tumor tissues, augmented dendritic cell activation, production of proinflammatory cytokines, and improved function of cytotoxic T cells.

Conclusions

Our studies show the dual-LNP ensured codelivery of its synergistic cargoes to tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells, leading to simultaneous silencing of VISTA and stimulation of TLR9. As a result, the dual-LNP drove a highly potent antitumor immune response that rejected large aggressive tumors, thus may be a promising therapeutic platform for treating immune-cold tumors.
Lacunary A-Statistical Convergence of Complex Uncertain Sequences via Orlicz Function
Authors: Gorka Samrati , Raj Kuldip , Mursaleen M.
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we introduce and study lacunary A-statistical convergence of complex uncertain sequences via Orlicz functions. We investigate some aspects of uncertainty such as mean, measure, almost surely, uniformly almost surely and distribution. Additionally, we make an effort to provide illustrative examples that elucidate the interrelations within the constructed sequence spaces.
On the Implementation of Iterative Methods Without Inverse Updating for Solving Equations in Banach Spaces
Authors: Argyros Ioannis K. , George Santhosh
Published: August 2024

The implementation of iterative methods using inverses to solve equations is a computationally expensive or impossible task in general. This is the case, since the analytical form of the inverse is difficult to find in practice. That is why, we replace the inverse by a sum of linear operators which is well defined. The convergence of the resulting hybrid methods is studied based on majorizing sequences under generalized continuity assumptions on the operators involved and in the setting of a Banach space. It is demonstrated by numerical experimentations that the convergence order as well as the number of iterations required to obtain a predetermined error tolerance when comparing the original to the hybrid method is essentially the same.
Study of Fifth-Order Nonlinear Caudrey–Dodd–Gibbon Model for Multiwave, M-Shaped Solitons, Lumps, Generalized Breathers, Manifold Periodic, Rogue Wave and Kink Wave Interactions
Authors: Rizvi Syed T. R. , Seadawy Aly R. , Althobaiti Ali , Ali Kashif , Ahmed Sarfaraz
Published: August 2024

Numerous novel wave structures, such as lump, lump with one-kink, lump with two-kink soliton, generalized breather, Ma breather, Kuznetsov-Ma breather, Akhmediev breather, manifold periodic, and rogue wave solutions to [Formula: see text]-dimensional fifth-order nonlinear Caudrey–Dodd–Gibbon (FNCDG) model via symbolic computation are studied based on the ansatz function scheme. Studying the lump-type solution involves selecting the function as the generic quadratic polynomial function. The lump with one- and two-kink solutions is created by mixing a quadratic function with one or two exponential functions. By adding hyperbolic function with a quadratic function, the rogue wave solutions are manipulated. In addition, the multiwave, [Formula: see text]-shaped rational solitons and their interactions with kink waves are analytically evaluated. Furthermore, different 3D, 2D, and contour profiles are created in different dimensions by changing the parameter values.
Predictors of Radial Head Dislocation in Patients with Multiple Hereditary Exostoses
Authors: SHINTANI Kosuke , OHIRA Chinatsu , ONISHI Yuma , HOSOMI Ryo , NAKAGAWA Keisuke , TAKAMATSU Kiyohito
Published: August 2024

Background: Radial head dislocation in patients with multiple hereditary exostoses (MHE) is associated with loss of function and cosmetic problems. The treatment of the deformity with radial head dislocation is difficult and the timing of surgical intervention is important. The aim of this study was to evaluate the factors predictive of radial head dislocation in patients with MHE.

Methods: Patients diagnosed with forearm deformity due to MHE between 1995 and 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. Radiographic parameters including radial bow (RB), ulnar bow (UB), total radial bow (TRB), total ulnar bow (TUB), percent ulnar length (PUL), ulnar shortening (US), radial articular angle (RAA), modified Masada classification and irregularity of proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ) of the dislocated group (group D), that is subluxation or dislocation of the radial head, and the located group (group L) were compared.

Results: A total of 18 patients and 25 limbs (5 girls and 13 boys) with a mean age of 10.5 years were included. There were significant differences in TUB (22.8° ± 5.6° vs. 10.7° ± 6.5°), PUL (97.5% ± 5.5% vs. 108.2% ± 7.7%) between group D and group L (p < 0.05). Moreover, irregularity of PRUJ on radiographs was more in group D (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: It is possible that appropriate radiographic assessment in relation to radial head dislocation may prevent delayed surgical treatment of forearm deformities in MHE.

Level of Evidence: Level IV (Diagnostic)