bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of quality improvement interventions on facility readiness, quality and uptake of maternal and child health services in developing regions of Ethiopia: a secondary analysis of programme data
Authors: Dadi Tegene Legese , Abebo Teshome Abuka , Yeshitla Aklilu , Abera Yared , Tadesse Derebe , Tsegaye Sentayehu , Gerbaba Mulusew Jebena , Worke Mulugeta Dile , Tadesse Daniel , Medhin Girmay
Published: November 2023

Background

Quality improvement intervention (QI) was implemented from 2018 to 2021 in health facilities of developing regional states of Ethiopia. The main objective of this study was to examine the impact of QI interventions on facility readiness, service availability, quality and usage of health services in these regions.

Methods

We used district health information system data of 56 health facilities (HFs). We also used baseline and endline QI monitoring data from 28 HFs. Data were summarised using descriptive statistics and various tests. Regression analysis was employed to examine the impact of QI interventions on various outcomes.

Result

The QI intervention improved readiness of HFs, service availability and quality of maternal and child health service delivery. The mean availability of basic amenities increased from 1.89 to 2.89; HF cleanliness score increased from 4.43 to 5.96; family planning method availability increased from 4 to 5.75; score for emergency drugs at labour ward increased from 5.32 to 7.00; and the mean score for basic emergency obstetric and newborn care service availability increased from 5.68 to 6.75; intrauterine contraceptive devices removal service increased from 39.3% to 82.1%; and partograph use increased from 53.6% to 92.9%. HFs that use partograph for labour management increased by 39.3%. The QI intervention increased the quality of antenatal care by 29.3%, correct partograph use by 51.7% and correct active third-stage labour management, a 19.6% improvement from the baseline. The interventions also increased the service uptake of maternal health services, but not significantly associated with improvement in contraceptive service uptake.

Conclusion

The integrated QI interventions in HFs could have an impact on facility readiness for service delivery, service accessibility and quality of service delivery. The effectiveness of the QI intervention should be evaluated using robust methods, and efforts to enhance contraceptive services through a QI approach requires further study.
Suicide poisoning mortality: a comparison of the national poison data system and centers for disease control national dataset
Authors: Apata Jummai , Pennap Dinci , Ma Yong , Mosholder Andrew
Published: November 2023

The America’s Poison Centres National Poison Data System (NPDS) is set up for the active surveillance of voluntarily reported poisoning cases in near real-time. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER) database is final national mortality data from state registries. We compared suicide poisoning deaths in both datasets from 2000 to 2020 and tested their relationship using a simple linear regression model. Mean annual suicide poisoning deaths during the review period were 699 (SD 145) in NPDS, and 6150 (SD 577) in WONDER. NPDS annual cases averaged 11% of cases recorded in WONDER (SD 2%; Range 8%–16%). The regression coefficient for the linear relationship between annual deaths recorded in both datasets was 0.18 (p-value<0.001, R2=0.51). The rapidly available NPDS data on fatal self-poisoning may provide sentinel surveillance regarding self-poisonings, but do not reliably predict final national data on suicide poisoning.
Characterising the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patient journey after a serious road traffic injury and barriers to access to compensation: a protocol
Authors: Hossain Sadia , Moeller Holger , Sharpe Patrick , Campbell Marnie , Kimlin Rebecca , Porykali Bobby , Shannon Brett , Gray Jodi , Afzali Hossein , Harrison James E , Ivers Rebecca Q , Ryder Courtney
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Road safety has been a long-enduring policy concern in Australia, with significant financial burden of road trauma and evident socioeconomic disparities. Transport injuries disproportionately impact individuals in remote areas, those in lower socioeconomic situations, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. There is a lack of insight into transport injuries in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, absence of Indigenous perspective in published research and limited utilisation of linked data assets to address the inequity. Aim 1 is to determine the breadth, cost and causal factors of serious injury from road traffic crashes in South Australia (SA) and New South Wales (NSW) with a focus on injury prevention. Aim 2 is to identify enablers and barriers to compensation schemes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in SA and NSW.

Methods and analysis

This study will be guided by an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Governance Group, applying Knowledge Interface Methodology and Indigenous research principles to ensure Indigenous Data Sovereignty and incorporation of informed perspectives. A mixed-method approach will be undertaken to explore study aims including using big data assets and mapping patient journey.

Conclusion

The results of this study will provide valuable insights for the development of focused injury prevention strategies and policies tailored to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. By addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by these communities, the study aims to enhance road safety outcomes and promote equitable access to healthcare and compensation for affected individuals and their families.
Non-coding CGG repeat expansion inLOC642361/NUTM2B-AS1is associated with a phenotype of oculopharyngodistal myopathy
Authors: Gu Xinyu , Yu Jiaxi , Jiao Kexin , Deng Jianwen , Xia Xingyu , Qiao Kai , Yue Dongyue , Gao Mingshi , Zhao Chongbo , Dong Jihong , Huang Gongchun , Shan Jingli , Yan Chuanzhu , Di Li , Da Yuwei , Zhu Wenhua , Xi Jianying , Wang Zhaoxia
Published: November 2023

Background

Oculopharyngodistal myopathy (OPDM) is a rare adult-onset neuromuscular disease, associated with CGG repeat expansions in the 5′ untranslated region ofLRP12,GIPC1,NOTCH2NLCandRILPL1. However, the genetic cause of a proportion of pathoclinically confirmed cases remains unknown.

Methods

A total of 26 OPDM patients with unknown genetic cause(s) from 4 tertiary referral hospitals were included in this study. Clinical data and laboratory findings were collected. Muscle samples were observed by histological and immunofluorescent staining. Long-read sequencing was initially conducted in six patients with OPDM. Repeat-primed PCR was used to screen the CGG repeat expansions inLOC642361/NUTM2B-AS1in all 26 patients.

Results

We identified CGG repeat expansion in the non-coding transcripts ofLOC642361/NUTM2B-AS1in another two unrelated Chinese cases with typical pathoclinical features of OPDM. The repeat expansion was more than 70 times in the patients but less than 40 times in the normal controls. Both patients showed no leucoencephalopathy but one showed mild cognitive impairment detected by Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Rimmed vacuoles and p62-positive intranuclear inclusions (INIs) were identified in muscle pathology, and colocalisation of CGG RNA foci with p62 was also found in the INIs of patient-derived fibroblasts.

Conclusions

We identified another two unrelated cases with CGG repeat expansion in the long non-coding RNA of theLOC642361/NUTM2B-AS1gene, presenting with a phenotype of OPDM. Our cases broadened the recognised phenotypic spectrum and pathogenesis in the disease associated with CGG repeat expansion inLOC642361/NUTM2B-AS1.
Intrathoracic plates versus extrathoracic plates: a comparison of postoperative pain in surgical stabilization of rib fracture technique
Authors: Tichenor Michael , Reparaz Laura B. , Watson Christopher , Reeves Jeremy , Prest Phillip , Fitzgerald Michael , Patel Neema , Tan Xiyan , Hessey Jacob
Published: November 2023

Background

Surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) has been shown to improve outcomes, yet there is an absence of studies comparing SSRF techniques. An intrathoracic system that minimizes incision length has recently been developed and adopted by multiple institutions. We hypothesized that SSRF with an intrathoracic system plus intercostal nerve cryoneurolysis (IC) leads to improved pain control compared with an extrathoracic system plus IC.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective chart review was performed comparing intrathoracic SSRF versus extrathoracic SSRF, and included patients undergoing SSRF from 2015 to 2021 at a level 1 trauma center. Patients who did not undergo intercostal nerve cryoablation were excluded. The primary outcome was opioid consumption based on morphine milligram equivalent (MME) consumption. We collected Rib score, Blunt Pulmonary Contusion 18 Score, number of rib fractures, number of ribs plated, and Injury Severity Score (ISS) to compare baseline characteristics of each group.

Results

A total of 112 patients were evaluated for study inclusion. Thirty-one patients were excluded due to missing outcomes data and/or lack of cryoablation. There was no difference in ISS or Rib Score between the intrathoracic (n=33) and extrathoracic (n=48) groups. At 7-day follow-up, the median MME requirement was significantly lower in the intrathoracic group (21.25) versus the extrathoracic group (46.20) (p=0.02).

Conclusion

Intrathoracic SSRF was associated with a lower postoperative MME consumption compared with extrathoracic SSRF. These data support the use of intrathoracic SSRF to improve pain control compared to extrathoracic SSRF.

Level of evidence

III.
Effects of simulated catch-and-release angling of Atlantic salmon shortly before spawning on the viability and development of their offspring
Authors: Papatheodoulou Magdalene , Metcalfe Neil B. , Killen Shaun S.
Published: November 2023

The principle of catch-and-release (C&R) angling is to conserve fish populations while allowing the socioeconomic benefits associated with recreational angling to continue, even at low-stock abundances. We explored how angling-associated parental stress close to spawning could influence early development of the next generation. Wild Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, were captured on the river Blackwater, N. Scotland, during their spawning migration and exposed to different disturbance protocols intended to simulate C&R angling. Experimental fish were mated with non-experimental fish and their offspring were monitored. Mortality was higher in offspring whose parents were air-exposed. Embryos from stressed parents had smaller yolk sacs compared to controls and offspring from air-exposed parents were shorter at first feeding. Most effects were of similar magnitude regardless of the stressed parent's sex and indicated that C&R angling of Atlantic salmon close to spawning could adversely influence the offspring development. These results suggest that consideration must be given to excluding spawning periods from fishing seasons, and highlight the importance of avoiding air exposure for captured fish, as indicated by best practice guidelines.
Exploring tidal force effects and shadow constraints for Schwarzschild-like black hole in Starobinsky–Bel-Robinson gravity
Authors: Arora Dhruv , Molla Niyaz Uddin , Chaudhary Himanshu , Debnath Ujjal , Atamurotov Farruh , Mustafa G.
Published: November 2023

The current manuscript deals with the tidal force effects, geodesic deviation, and shadow constraints of the Schwarzschild-like black hole theorised in Starobinsky–Bel-Robinson gravity exhibiting M-theory compactification. In the current analysis, we explore the radial and angular tidal force effects on a radially in-falling particle by the central black hole, which is located in this spacetime. We also numerically solve the geodesic deviation equation and study the variation of the geodesic separation vector with the radial coordinate for two nearby geodesics using suitable initial conditions. All the obtained results are tested for Sag A* and M87* by constraining the value of the stringy gravity parameter $$\beta $$
β
using the shadow data from the event horizon telescope observations. All the results are compared with Schwarzschild black hole spacetime. In our study, we found that both the radial and angular tidal forces experienced by a particle switch their initial behaviour and turn compressive and stretching, respectively, before reaching the event horizon. The geodesic deviation shows an oscillating trend as well for the chosen initial condition. For the constrained value of $$\beta $$
β
, we see that the spacetime geometry generated by Sag A* and M87* is effectively same for both Schwarzschild and Starobinsky–Bel-Robinson black hole. Furthermore, we also calculated the angular diameter of the shadow in Starobinsky–Bel-Robinson black hole and compared with the Schwarzschild black hole. It is observed that the angular diameter of shadow for M87* and Sgr A* in Starobinsky–Bel-Robinson black hole is smaller than the Schwarzschild black hole. The calculated results satisfy the event horizon telescope observational constraints.
On K-semistable domains — more examples
Authors: Zhou Chuyu
Published: November 2023

We compute K-semistable domains for various examples of log pairs.
Low-Leakage Double-Body MOSFET: A Promising Circuit-Level Technique for Deep-Submicron Analog Integrated Circuit Design
Authors: Maryan Mohammad Moradinezhad , Azhari Seyed Javad
Published: November 2023

Since the leakage currents are dramatically increasing while the MOS transistors scale down to deep-submicron processes, the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] characteristic of the channel is varied unintentionally. As a result, the analog integrated circuit (IC) designs based on it (at above 100-nm technologies) will malfunction. In this paper, a novel low-leakage double-body MOSFET (LLDB-M), as a circuit-level scheme in answering to the need for the current-mode analog IC design in deep-submicron processes, is proposed. In this technique, the sub-threshold and gate-oxide tunneling leakage currents (as two major parts) are reduced via lowering the gate-source voltage and increasing the threshold voltage of the MOS transistor. An LLDB-M consists of two typical transistors — the first one is the main transistor and the latter implements the shift-voltage to reduce the gate-source voltage and floor of the channel leakage currents. The drain, gate, and body of the main transistor as well as the body and source of the second one, organize the terminals of an LLDB-M. The proposed LLDB-M transistors are replaced with large-leakage transistors in a translinear loop in the weak inversion region and then the commonly-used circuits such-as the current mirror, one-quadrant multiplier-divider (at both up-down and stack topologies), the true RMS-DC converter, and the log-domain low-pass-filter are designed. The effectiveness and performance of the proposed LLDB-M technique and circuits are evaluated using HSPICE software in 22-nm BSIM4 CMOS process and Cadence Virtuoso tool in 65-nm TSMC CMOS technology. Post-layout simulation results show that the proposed circuit-level method by considerably reducing leakage currents could ensure the effective function of the current-mode analog IC designs in deep-submicron technologies. Also, comprehensive simulations have been performed to prove the robustness and reliability of the proposed circuits against process, voltage and temperature (PVT) changes.
INVESTIGATION OF ELECTROEROSION MACHINING PERFORMANCE OF METAL MATRIX COMPOSITE MATERIALS PRODUCED USING STIR AND INDIRECT SQUEEZE METHOD
Authors: UĞUR ABDULLAH , NAS ENGIN , GÖKKAYA HASAN
Published: November 2023

In this study, metal matrix composite (MMC) materials were made with an aluminum matrix (AA7075 alloy) and reinforcement silicon carbide (SiC) elements using molten metal stir and indirect squeeze casting. SiC was used as a reinforcing element in the making of MMC material in different amounts (10%, 14%, and 18%) by mass. Electro Discharge Machining (EDM), cut depth (0.5 mm), three different pulse-on times, three different discharge current values, and a fixed pulse-off time (20 s) were used to machine MMC materials. The effects of machining parameters on machining time, average surface roughness, hole diameter, and material wear difference after machining were studied. As a result of the study, the composite material with 75 [Formula: see text]s pulse-on time, 6A current value, and 10% reinforcement element had the lowest machining time, the largest hole diameter, and the smoothest average surface. These machining parameters and materials also had the shortest machining time (5 min). Based on the signal-to-noise ratios, the best parameters for average surface roughness, hole diameter, Processing time, and material wear amount (MMC, discharge current value, and impact time) were found to be [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], respectively. Based on the ANOVA results, the [Formula: see text]2 values for the average surface roughness, hole diameter, machining time, and material wear loss value were 99.3%, 98.7%, 77.8%, and 97.3%, respectively.
CAN THE PIRANI SCORE PREDICT THE NECESSITY OF ACHILLES TENOTOMY FOR IDIOPATHIC CLUBFOOT PATIENTS TREATED WITH THE PONSETI METHOD?
Authors: Al-Shamari Ahmed Latteef
Published: November 2023

Background: Idiopathic clubfoot is one of the most common congenital problems affecting newborns. Several methods are used for grading its severity, of which Pirani score is the most reliable one. The Ponseti method of clubfoot management is effective, producing better results and fewer complications than traditional surgical methods.

Methods: The study includes 27 clubfeet who were diagnosed with clubfoot and who were scored using Pirani score and were treated with the Ponseti method with possible Achilles tenotomy.

Result: The study showed that the mean Pirani scores before treatment were significantly higher in the tenotomy than in the non-tenotomy group (3.54 vs. 2.23 for the total Pirani score, 2.25 vs. 1.69 for the midfoot Pirani score and 1.29 vs. 0.59 for the hindfoot Pirani score). The study proposes a “before treatment” cutoff point of 2.75 for the total Pirani score, 1.75 for the midfoot Pirani score and 1.25 for the hindfoot Pirani score, where a score above these cutoff points can predict the need for tenotomy.

Conclusion: This study showed that the Pre-treatment Pirani score can help surgeons decide whether to do tenotomy or not in patients treated with the Ponseti method.
A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF OUTCOME IN CHILDREN OF CLUB FOOT TREATED FOR EQUINUS CORRECTION WITH WIDE BORE NEEDLE TENOTOMY
Authors: Singh Amit , Choudhary Jeewan , Siwach Gaurav , Kumar Ashok , Bansal Mohit , Singh Nirottam
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Congenital talipes equinovarus is an idiopathic and common congenital deformity. Clubfoot treatment includes series stretching, manipulation, and immobilization; and for the relapse and resistant cases, management includes soft tissue releases, osteotomy, and immobilization. Tenotomy of the tendo-Achilles is an essential step in the Ponseti treatment of congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV). In this study, we did a wide bore needle tenotomy, a minimally invasive technique for the management of equinus deformity.

Materials and Methods: The study included 50 patients with 73 idiopathic clubfeet treated with the Ponseti technique. Out of which, 58 feet were treated by a wide bore needle tenotomy with aseptic precautions.

Results: Out of all 73 feet managed with the Ponseti technique, 58 feet equinus were treated with a wide bore needle tenotomy, and the rest of the 15 feet equinus were corrected with a cast. The mean age at presentation of all the patients was 4.44 months. Mean cast applied was 7.24, equinus correction in age more than 6 months was only tenotomy.

Conclusion: The results of our study showed good correction of deformity with low expenditure and minimal surgical intervention. The percutaneous needle tenotomy procedure offers a reliable and effective procedure for correcting equinus in club foot deformity with less chances of infection and other complications. We found that correction of equinus with cast is more effective at an early age of presentation and with a low Pirani severity score.
Fully symmetric frame scaling functions and derived framelets
Authors: Zhang Zhihua
Published: November 2023

Due to resilience to background noise, avoidance of linear phase distortion, and stability of redundant representation, various simply symmetric frame scaling functions and derived framelets are becoming widely-used tools in data processing and transmission systems. In this study, we will reveal topological features (range, diameter, origin behavior, etc.) of spectral domain of fully symmetric frame scaling functions in the higher-dimensional space. Moreover, we present sufficient and necessary conditions for fully symmetric frame scaling functions with cube-shaped, sphere-shaped and ellipsoid-shape spectral domains. At the same time, we give the construction of fully symmetric frame scaling function and derived framelets with fully symmetry.
On the spatiotemporal structures of ratio-dependent prey–predator model of ecological system
Authors: Baber Muhammad Z. , Seadawy Aly R. , Qasim Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad S. , Rizvi Syed T. R.
Published: November 2023

Ecological system is the interaction of biological community with other organisms and their physical environments. One of the important models is spatiotemporal prey–predator model of Michaelis–Menten-type functional response and reaction diffusion with constant harvest rate. This paper investigates the spatiotemporal structures of ratio-dependent prey and predator densities under different constraint conditions and suitable parameters. The [Formula: see text] model expansion technique is followed to extract these densities. The prey and predator densities behave differently depending on the diffusion coefficients and other parametric ratios. The 3D and 2D behavior of these densities are also plotted and observed. These results may help for better understanding to study the biological community in a real marine environment or ecological system.
Optical Fiber-Based Needle Shape-Sensing in Real Tissue: Single-Core versus Multicore Approaches
Authors: Lezcano Dimitri A. , Zhetpissov Yernar , Cheng Alexandra , Kim Jin Seob , Iordachita Iulian I.
Published: November 2023

Flexible needle insertion procedures are common in minimally invasive surgeries for diagnosing and treating prostate cancer. Bevel-tip needles provide physicians the capability to steer the needle during long insertions to avoid vital anatomical structures in the patient and reduce post-operative patient discomfort. To provide needle placement feedback to the physician, sensors are embedded into needles for determining the real-time 3D shape of the needle during operation without needing to visualize the needle intra-operatively. Through expansive research in fiber optics, a plethora of biocompatible, MRI-compatible, optical shape-sensors have been developed to provide real-time shape feedback, such as single-core and multicore fiber Bragg gratings. In this paper, we directly compare single-core fiber-based and multicore fiber-based needle shape-sensing through similarly constructed, four active-area-sensorized bevel-tip needles inserted into phantom and ex-vivo tissues on the same experimental platform. In this work, we found that for shape-sensing in phantom tissue, the two needles performed identically with a [Formula: see text]-value of 0.164 > 0.05, but in ex-vivo real tissue, the single-core fiber-sensorized needle significantly outperformed the multicore fiber configuration with a [Formula: see text]-value of 0.0005 < 0.05. This paper also presents the experimental platform and method for directly comparing these optical shape sensors for the needle shape-sensing task, as well as provides direction, insight, and required considerations for future work in constructively optimizing sensorized needles.
Flip
: Data-centric Edge CGRA Accelerator
Authors: Wu Dan , Chen Peng , Bandara Thilini Kaushalya , Li Zhaoying , Mitra Tulika
Published: November 2023

Coarse-Grained Reconfigurable Arrays (CGRA) are promising edge accelerators due to the outstanding balance in flexibility, performance, and energy efficiency. Classic CGRAs statically map compute operations onto the processing elements (PE) and route the data dependencies among the operations through the Network-on-Chip. However, CGRAs are designed for fine-grained static instruction-level parallelism and struggle to accelerate applications with dynamic and irregular data-level parallelism, such as graph processing. To address this limitation, we present
Flip
, a novel accelerator that enhances traditional CGRA architectures to boost the performance of graph applications.
Flip
retains the classic CGRA execution model while introducing a special data-centric mode for efficient graph processing. Specifically, it leverages the inherent data parallelism of graph algorithms by mapping graph vertices onto PEs rather than the operations and supporting dynamic routing of temporary data according to the runtime evolution of the graph frontier. Experimental results demonstrate that
Flip
achieves up to 36× speedup with merely 19% more area compared to classic CGRAs. Compared to state-of-the-art large-scale graph processors,
Flip
has similar energy efficiency and 2.2× better area efficiency at a much-reduced power/area budget.
JiuJITsu: Removing Gadgets with Safe Register Allocation for JIT Code Generation
Authors: Jiang Zhang , Chen Ying , Gong Xiaoli , Zhang Jin , Wang Wenwen , Yew Pen-Chung
Published: November 2023

Code-reuse attacks have the capability to craft malicious instructions from small code fragments, commonly referred to as “gadgets.” These gadgets are generated by JIT (Just-In-Time) engines as integral components of native instructions, with the flexibility to be embedded in various fields, including
Displacement
. In this article, we introduce a novel approach for potential gadget insertion, achieved through the manipulation of
ModR/M
and
SIB
bytes via JavaScript code. This manipulation influences a JIT engine’s register allocation and code generation algorithms. These newly generated gadgets do not rely on constants and thus evade existing constant blinding schemes. Furthermore, they can be combined with 1-byte constants, a combination that proves to be challenging to defend against using conventional constant blinding techniques. To showcase the feasibility of our approach, we provide proof-of-concept (POC) code for three distinct types of gadgets. Our research underscores the potential for attackers to exploit
ModR/M
and
SIB
bytes within JIT-generated native instructions. In response, we propose a practical defense mechanism to mitigate such attacks. We introduce
JiuJITsu
, a security-enhanced register allocation scheme designed to prevent harmful register assignments during the JIT code generation phase, thereby thwarting the generation of these malicious gadgets. We conduct a comprehensive analysis of
JiuJITsu
’s effectiveness in defending against code-reuse attacks. Our findings demonstrate that it incurs a runtime overhead of under 1% when evaluated using JetStream2 benchmarks and real-world websites.
Antecubital Venous Endothelial ETB Receptor Protein Expression is Preserved with Aging in Men
Authors: Tummala Saumya , Kuczmarski Andrew V. , Del Vecchio Angelica R. , Schwab Allyson I. , Edwards David G. , Wenner Megan M.
Published: November 2023

Changes in endothelial function precede the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We have previously shown that age-related declines in endothelial function in women are due in part to a reduction in endothelial cell endothelin-B receptor (ETBR) protein expression. However, it is not known if ETBR protein expression changes with aging in men. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that ETBR protein expression is attenuated in older men (OM) compared to younger men (YM). Primary endothelial cells were harvested from the antecubital vein of 14 OM (60±6 yrs; 26±3 kg/m2) and 17 YM (24±5 yrs; 24±2 kg/m2). Cells were stained with 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole, vascular endothelial cadherin, and ETBR. Images were quantified using immunocytochemistry. Endothelial function was assessed using brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD). Systolic BP was similar (OM: 123±11 vs. YM: 122±10 mmHg) whereas diastolic BP was higher in OM (OM: 77±7 vs. YM: 70±6 mmHg; P<0.01). Total testosterone was lower in OM (OM: 6.28±4.21 vs. YM: 9.10 ±2.68ng/mL; P=0.03). As expected, FMD was lower in OM (OM: 3.85±1.51 vs. YM: 6.40 ±2.68%; P<0.01). However, ETBR protein expression was similar between OM and YM (OM: 0.39±0.17 vs. YM: 0.42±0.17 AU; P=0.66). These data suggest that ETBR protein expression is not altered with age in men. These findings are in contrast to our previous data in women, and further support sex differences in the endothelin system.
Authentic Leadership, Personality Types, and Job Satisfaction: Study with Nurses in a Private Hospital
Authors: Hirayama Paula , Miclos Paula Vitali , Farah Olga Guilhermina Dias
Published: November 2023

Objective. To identify the authentic leadership dimensions demonstrated by nurse leaders and to analyze the relationship between these dimensions, personality types, and job satisfaction among both leaders and their followers. Methods. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 111 nurses using the Instruments Authentic Leadership Questionnaire, Job Satisfaction Survey, and Myers–Briggs Type Indicator®. The statistical methods used included Spearman correlation coefficients, nonparametric Mann–Whitney tests, and generalized estimating equation models with gamma distribution. Results. There was a significant difference between the evaluations of authentic leadership by leaders and followers. There was a significant association between authentic leadership and job satisfaction among followers (

p

value >0.05), while no correlation was observed between authentic leadership, job satisfaction, and personality type among leaders. Conclusions. The findings indicate a positive correlation between authentic leadership dimensions and job satisfaction among followers.
A Case of Syphilis Suspected Preoperatively as a Case of Tongue Cancer
Authors: Kondo Shigeru , Okada Ryuhei , Ariizumi Yosuke , Kurita Takashi , Shintaku Hiroshi , Asakage Takahiro
Published: November 2023

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by Treponema pallidum (TP). We report a case of syphilis that was initially suspected as tongue cancer. An 86-year-old man consulted a neighborhood clinic with an approximately one-month history of pain in the right tongue. The result of scraping cytology of the tongue performed at the clinic was classified as class V, squamous cell carcinoma, and the patient was referred to our hospital. Physical examination revealed a mass on the right side of the tongue and a firm cervical mass. Biopsy revealed no evidence of malignancy; however, the imaging findings led to the suspicion of tongue cancer and lymph node metastasis. The results of blood examination revealed that the patient had syphilis, but since the patient showed few other symptoms, we decided to treat the infection after the planned surgery. We performed right partial glossectomy and neck dissection; however, the postoperative histopathology revealed no evidence of malignancy but nonspecific inflammatory changes with TP spirochetes. The incidence of syphilis has increased dramatically around the world, including Japan, during the last 20 years, and it no longer remains a rare disease. Therefore, syphilis should be included in the differential diagnosis of oral or cervical masses.
Supplementary Table 2 from Concordance and Clinical Significance of Genomic Alterations in Progressive Tumor Tissue and Matched Circulating Tumor DNA in Aggressive-variant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruiliang , Xu Qiufan , Guo Hanxu , Yang Guanjie , Zhang Jun , Wang Hong , Xu Tianyuan , Guo Changcheng , Yuan Jing , He Yanyan , Zhang Xiaoying , Fu Hongliang , Xu Guang , Zhao Binghui , Xie Jun , Zhao Tingting , Huang Longfei , Zhang Jiansheng , Peng Bo , Yao Xudong , Yang Bin
Published: November 2023

Somatic Mutations and Deleterious Germline Mutations Detected in Progressive Tumor Tissue and Matched Circulating Tumor DNA for Each AVPC Patient.
Supplementary Table 1 from Concordance and Clinical Significance of Genomic Alterations in Progressive Tumor Tissue and Matched Circulating Tumor DNA in Aggressive-variant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruiliang , Xu Qiufan , Guo Hanxu , Yang Guanjie , Zhang Jun , Wang Hong , Xu Tianyuan , Guo Changcheng , Yuan Jing , He Yanyan , Zhang Xiaoying , Fu Hongliang , Xu Guang , Zhao Binghui , Xie Jun , Zhao Tingting , Huang Longfei , Zhang Jiansheng , Peng Bo , Yao Xudong , Yang Bin
Published: November 2023

Source, Multi-modal Imaging Characterization and Sampling of Progressive Tumor Tissue for Next-generation Sequencing.
Supplementary Figure 4 from Concordance and Clinical Significance of Genomic Alterations in Progressive Tumor Tissue and Matched Circulating Tumor DNA in Aggressive-variant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruiliang , Xu Qiufan , Guo Hanxu , Yang Guanjie , Zhang Jun , Wang Hong , Xu Tianyuan , Guo Changcheng , Yuan Jing , He Yanyan , Zhang Xiaoying , Fu Hongliang , Xu Guang , Zhao Binghui , Xie Jun , Zhao Tingting , Huang Longfei , Zhang Jiansheng , Peng Bo , Yao Xudong , Yang Bin
Published: November 2023

Patient-level concordance of genomic alterations involving the tumor suppressor genes TP53, RB1 or PTEN between progressive tumor tissue and matched ctDNA in patients with AVPC.
FIGURE 2 from Concordance and Clinical Significance of Genomic Alterations in Progressive Tumor Tissue and Matched Circulating Tumor DNA in Aggressive-variant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wang Ruiliang , Xu Qiufan , Guo Hanxu , Yang Guanjie , Zhang Jun , Wang Hong , Xu Tianyuan , Guo Changcheng , Yuan Jing , He Yanyan , Zhang Xiaoying , Fu Hongliang , Xu Guang , Zhao Binghui , Xie Jun , Zhao Tingting , Huang Longfei , Zhang Jiansheng , Peng Bo , Yao Xudong , Yang Bin
Published: November 2023

Concordance of genomic alterations between proggressive tumor tissue and matched ctDNA from patients with AVPC. A, Concordance in SMs and CNVs. Data are shown for 63 patients. B, Rose diagram of concordance for SMs + CNVs, SMs only or CNVs only. C, Proportions of patients with high positive concordance, low positive concordance or negative concordance. D, Association between high positive concordance and clinical characteristics, including the ctDNA%, AVPC criteria, progressive status, and PSA ≥ 10 ng/mL at the time of DNA sequencing. Associations were assessed using Kendall tau test, and significance was defined as *, P < 0.05 or **, P < 0.01. Data are shown for 61 patients. E–G, Concordance of alterations involving the tumor suppressor genes TP53, RB1, or PTEN in 46 patients with AVPC. E, Concordance of SMs or CNVs. F, Rose diagram of concordance for SMs + CNVs, SMs only or CNVs only. G, Proportions of patients with positive or negative concordance. ALP, alkaline phosphatase.
Reanalysis of Whole-Exome Sequencing Data of an Infant with Suspected Diagnosis of Jeune Syndrome Revealed a Likely Pathogenic Variant in GRK2: A Newly Associated Gene for Jeune Syndrome Phenotype
Authors: Topcu Vehap , Yildirim Said Furkan , Turan Husnu Mutlu
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Ciliopathies with major skeletal involvement embrace a group of heterogeneous disorders caused by pathogenic variants in a group of diverse genes. A narrow thorax with shortening of long bones inspires a clinical entity underlined by dysfunction of primary cilia. Currently, more than 23 genes are listed in the OMIM database corresponding to this clinical entity: WDR19/34/35/60, IFT43/52/80/81/140/172, DYNC2LI1, TTC21B, DYNLT2B, EVC2, EVC, INTU, NEK1, CEP120, DYNC2H1, KIAA0586, SRTD1, KIAA0753, and SRTD12. Recently, individuals with biallelic loss-of-function variants in GRK2 are shown to demonstrate a phenotype compatible with Jeune syndrome. Experimental evidence has shown that impaired function of GRK2 compromises cilia-based signaling of Hedgehog pathway as well as Wnt signaling, while cilia morphology remains intact. Hence, GRK2 is now considered an essential protein in regulation of the skeletogenesis. Case Presentation: We presented a female infant born to a consanguineous marriage who was found to have a biallelic p.R474* alteration in GRK2 in reanalysis of the whole-exome sequencing (WES) data. The patient was exhibiting major clinical features of Jeune syndrome, such as shortened long bones, ribs, and narrow thorax. Discussion: Our reanalysis of WES data revealed a likely pathogenic biallelic variant in the GRK2 which is probably responsible for the Jeune syndrome phenotype in the patient. Hence, our report supports the recently discovered association of GRK2 loss-of-function variants with Jeune syndrome phenotype and emphasizes the significance of reanalysis of WES data, notably in patients with phenotypes suggestive of a such discernible Mendelian disorder.
A Bridge to Graduation: Post-Secondary Effects of an Alternative Pathway for Students Who Fail High School Exit Exams
Authors: Lincove Jane Arnold , Mata Catherine , Cortes Kalena E.
Published: November 2023

High school exit exams are meant to standardize the quality of public high schools and to ensure that students graduate with a set of basic skills and knowledge. Evidence suggests that a common perverse effect of exit exams is an increase in dropout for students who have difficulty passing tests, with a larger effect on minority students. To mitigate this, some states offer alternative, non-tested pathways to graduation for students who have failed their exit exams. This study investigates the post-secondary effects of an alternative high school graduation program. Compared with similar students who fail to complete high school, those students who take the alternative pathway have better post-secondary outcomes in both education and employment. Compared with similar students who retake exit exams to graduate, those who eventually graduate through an alternative project-based pathway have lower college enrollment, but similar employment outcomes.
Persian Garlands of Stars: Islamicate and Indic Astral Sciences in Seventeenth-Century North India
Authors: Arzoumanov Jean
Published: November 2023

This paper offers a study of Mullā Farīd and Mullā Ṭayyib, two astronomers active in several North Indian courts in the first half of the seventeenth century. The lives and works of these two brothers illustrate the central role of mathematical astronomy and astrology in the science of the time and its use by Indian Muslim nobility. They also document the familiarity of Indian Muslim scholars with Indic astrology and its practice in Muslim milieux. Mathematical astronomy was very much alive in seventeenth-century Mughal India, and Persian-writing scholars were commenting and revising the astronomical data and mathematics transmitted from the Maragha and Samarqand schools of astronomy. Their intellectual activities are also better understood in the context of the avid interest in occult sciences cultivated by early modern Persianate societies, and more particularly by the Mughal court. Mathematical astronomy was nurtured for the precise purpose of casting horoscopes and creating astrological almanacs. Astrological practices in North-Indian courts, including Delhi, the Mughal imperial capital, were evidently mixed and flavoured with elements from both Islamicate and Indic traditions. Knowledge was widely shared across languages and scientific interests went well beyond religious denominations. Crucially too, the exchange between the Persian and the Sanskrit scholastic worlds was sponsored by Mughal patrons and resulted in scientific translations from one language to the other.

A closer reading of Mullā Farīd and Mullā Ṭayyib’s Persian works allows us to see that besides their more classical astronomical works, the two brothers shared a common interest in Indic methods of prognostication, in particular muhūrtaśāstra, the science of electing an auspicious moment to perform a certain action. In this paper, we elucidate an intricate dossier on the “bust hours,” an ancient prognostication method popular with Islamicate astrologers. Identified by Islamicate scholars as coming ultimately from India, the source of many features of Islamicate astrology, these bust hours were reinterpreted on Indian soil by Mullā Farīd and Mullā Ṭayyib in light of their first-hand knowledge of muhūrtaśāstra. In this manner, these bust hours came back full circle to the original Indian prognostication practices.
Taxonomic delineation of two closely allied Rubus L. (Rosaceae) species with notes on the typification of the name R. fairholmianus
Authors: NARAYANAN BHAVADAS , PRABHUKUMAR KONICKAL MAMBETTA , KUMAR VANNARATTA VEETIL NAVEEN , HARINARAYANAN C.M. , CHINNAPPAN SATHESHKUMAR , UMESH BALAKRISHNAN THARA
Published: November 2023

Rubus fairholmianus Gardner and R. micropetalus Gardner are the two closely allied taxa, collected from different localities of southern Western Ghats, India. Because of the absence of detailed description and the existence of morphological similarities, these taxa have been misidentified in many herbaria and other published floras. The present study discusses the major delineating features of both the taxa based on the conventional taxonomic studies and along with seed morphological analysis and also provides a note on the occurrence of R. moluccanus L. in Western Ghats. During the study, the name R. fairholmianus is also neotypified.
Acetylcysteine increases sensitivity of ceftazidime-avibactam–resistant enterobacterales with different enzymatic resistance to ceftazidime-avibactam in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Huang Zeyu , Han Yijia , Zhang Xiaotuan , Sun Yao , Lin Yuzhan , Feng Luozhu , Zhou Tieli , Wang Zhongyong
Published: November 2023

Background

Ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA) improves treatment outcomes for infections caused by carbapenem-resistant organisms, but has led to serious bacterial resistance. Acetylcysteine (NAC) is an approved medication that protects the respiratory tract through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Results

This study found that NAC combined with CZA effectively inhibits the growth of CZA-resistant clinical Enterobacterales strains. The CZA/NAC combination inhibits biofilm formation in vitro and decreases bacterial burden in a mouse thigh infection model. The combination is biocompatible and primarily increases cell membrane permeability to cause bacterial death.

Conclusions

These findings prove that the CZA/NAC combination has potential as a treatment for CZA-resistant Enterobacterales infections.
The nucleolar protein NOL12 is required for processing of large ribosomal subunit rRNA precursors in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zakrzewska-Placzek Monika , Golisz-Mocydlarz Anna , Krzyszton Michal , Piotrowska Justyna , Lichocka Malgorzata , Kufel Joanna
Published: November 2023

Background

NOL12 5′-3′ exoribonucleases, conserved among eukaryotes, play important roles in pre-rRNA processing, ribosome assembly and export. The most well-described yeast counterpart, Rrp17, is required for maturation of 5.8 and 25S rRNAs, whereas human hNOL12 is crucial for the separation of the large (LSU) and small (SSU) ribosome subunit rRNA precursors.

Results

In this study we demonstrate that plant AtNOL12 is also involved in rRNA biogenesis, specifically in the processing of the LSU rRNA precursor, 27S pre-rRNA. Importantly, the absence of AtNOL12 alters the expression of many ribosomal protein and ribosome biogenesis genes. These changes could potentially exacerbate rRNA biogenesis defects, or, conversely, they might stem from the disturbed ribosome assembly caused by delayed pre-rRNA processing. Moreover, exposure of the nol12 mutant to stress factors, including heat and pathogen Pseudomonas syringae, enhances the observed molecular phenotypes, linking pre-rRNA processing to stress response pathways. The aberrant rRNA processing, dependent on AtNOL12, could impact ribosome function, as suggested by improved mutant resistance to ribosome-targeting antibiotics.

Conclusion

Despite extensive studies, the pre-rRNA processing pathway in plants remains insufficiently characterized. Our investigation reveals the involvement of AtNOL12 in the maturation of rRNA precursors, correlating this process to stress response in Arabidopsis. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of plant ribosome biogenesis.
Comparison of seven comorbidity scores on four-month survival of lung cancer patients
Authors: Pluchart Hélène , Bailly Sébastien , Chanoine Sébastien , Moro-Sibilot Denis , Bedouch Pierrick , Toffart Anne-Claire
Published: November 2023

Background

The comorbidity burden has a negative impact on lung-cancer survival. Several comorbidity scores have been described and are currently used. The current challenge is to select the comorbidity score that best reflects their impact on survival. Here, we compared seven usable comorbidity scores (Charlson Comorbidity Index, Age adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index, Charlson Comorbidity Index adapted to lung cancer, National Cancer Institute combined index, National Cancer Institute combined index adapted to lung cancer, Elixhauser score, and Elixhauser adapted to lung cancer) with coded administrative data according to the tenth revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems to select the best prognostic index for predicting four-month survival.

Materials and methods

This cohort included every patient with a diagnosis of lung cancer hospitalized for the first time in the thoracic oncology unit of our institution between 2011 and 2015. The seven scores were calculated and used in a Cox regression method to model their association with four-month survival. Then, parameters to compare the relative goodness-of-fit among different models (Akaike Information Criteria, Bayesian Information Criteria), and discrimination parameters (the C-statistic and Harrell’s c-statistic) were calculated. A sensitivity analysis of these parameters was finally performed using a bootstrap method based on 1,000 samples.

Results

In total, 633 patients were included. Male sex, histological type, metastatic status, CCI, CCI-lung, Elixhauser score, and Elixhauser-lung were associated with poorer four-month survival. The Elixhauser score had the lowest AIC and BIC and the highest c-statistic and Harrell’s c-statistic. These results were confirmed in the sensitivity analysis, in which these discrimination parameters for the Elixhauser score were significantly different from the other scores.

Conclusions

Based on this cohort, the Elixhauser score is the best prognostic comorbidity score for predicting four-month survival for hospitalized lung cancer patients.