bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnitude distribution and clustering properties of the 3-D seismicity in Central Apennines (Italy)
Authors: Console Rodolfo , Vannoli Paola , Falcone Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

In this paper we deal with statistical features of earthquakes, seeking possible correlations between the Gutenberg–Richter magnitude distribution and the short-term clustering in an area of the Central Apennines, Italy, where significant seismicity with earthquakes exceeding magnitude 6.0 has been repeatedly observed from 1990 to the present. For this purpose, a recently developed version of the ETAS model, incorporating a 3-D spatial triggering kernel, has been adopted. Our analysis has been carried out representing the b-value and the probability of independence of events on six vertical cross-sections suitably related to the seismic structures that are considered responsible of the seismicity observed in the study area. The results of the statistical analysis of the seismicity in the study area have shown a clear distinction between the western normal low-angle fault system, characterized by eastward dip and the eastern normal fault systems, with westward dip. In the former (Etrurian Fault System; EFS) we found seismicity with a high b-value and high probability of independence, that is a scarce capacity of producing clusters and strong aftershock sequences. The eastern fault systems of our study area are distinguishable in two main distinct systems, which generated two strong seismic sequences in 1997 and 2016–2017. In the former (Colfiorito) sequence the seismicity showed a very low b-value and a modest probability of independence, while in the latter (Central Italy) sequence the b-value was significantly higher and the probability of independence had extremely low values (manifesting a high level of clustering). The much higher b-value of the EFS than the other extensional sources could be caused by its peculiar seismotectonic role of discontinuity at the base of the normal active faulting, and its reduced capacity of accumulating stress. This circumstance may be interpreted by a difference in the rheological properties of these fault systems, possibly also in relation to their present status in the earthquake cycle and the presence of strong aftershock sequences.
3. Food
Authors: Brassett James , Elias Juanita , Rethel Lena , Richardson Ben
Published: January 2023

This chapter examines the topic of food in everyday international political economy (IPE). It primarily focuses on the international trade of agricultural commodities and its developmental implications within the Global South. It explains the concepts of governmentality and the global value chain. The chapter begins by looking at corporate brands behind the globalization of chocolate, the associated transformation of dietary patterns, and the attempts to manage the exploitation that persists in the cocoa industry. It shows how these trends can be drawn together conceptually with reference to neoliberalism, a key term in IPE and in food studies generally. The chapter then analyses the meaning of food security, looks at how diets are governed, and looks at where value is distributed in the agri-food sector. It also considers how autoethnography and foodscaping can be used to reflect theoretically on daily diet and the moral economy of veganism.
4. Debt
Authors: Brassett James , Elias Juanita , Rethel Lena , Richardson Ben
Published: January 2023

This chapter focuses on the key themes of money and finance in international political economy (IPE) analysis. It describes the concepts of commodification, assetization, and financialization, and how they apply to the case of student debt. In many countries, borrowing money to pay for tuition fees and living costs is an expected part of going to university. Thinking about the emergence of personal indebtedness in the higher education system helps to foreground the international political economy of debt. The chapter then turns to other kinds of debt, including sovereign debt and household debt, and considers the reasons why people go into debt and why debts are repaid (or not). Using Islamic finance as a case study, it looks at alternatives to debt, such as non-conditional grants and risk-sharing contracts. Finally, the chapter reflects on the moral and power dynamics that underpin interest-bearing loans, as well as demands for debt cancellation.
5. Care
Authors: Brassett James , Elias Juanita , Rethel Lena , Richardson Ben
Published: January 2023

This chapter assesses feminist international political economy (IPE) insights about care. It begins by discussing military spouses and the vital everyday role that their care labour plays in sustaining the military as an institution. The chapter then looks at three interrelated debates that show the importance of care in everyday IPE: feminist work on social reproduction; the extent to which care can be commodified; and the heteronormative assumptions that underpin understandings of care. It also examines three crucial areas of feminist work on care that have informed IPE scholarship. These are the ‘care crisis’, how this crisis is experienced in everyday life as a form of depletion, and the transnationalization of commodified care labour in global care chains. Finally, the chapter reflects on how care can be measured through time use surveys and how policymakers have responded to the concerns raised by feminists about the significance of unpaid caring labour.
6. City
Authors: Brassett James , Elias Juanita , Rethel Lena , Richardson Ben
Published: January 2023

This chapter addresses the concept of the global city in international political economy (IPE), relating it to changes in the international financial system. It begins by looking at mega-events like the Olympic Games. The chapter shows how these are used in place branding strategies adopted by host cities, how they drive urban transformation through infrastructural investment, and how they have been politicized to challenge social injustice. It then considers the broader questions of what the concept of the global city reveals about the process of globalization; how urban development takes place, and the role of the state in managing this; and how the right to the city is being used to articulate and link up struggles against urbanized inequality. Finally, the chapter studies urban development, highlighting the racialized processes of gentrification and ableist environments.
9. Humour
Authors: Brassett James , Elias Juanita , Rethel Lena , Richardson Ben
Published: January 2023

This chapter discusses the ambiguous subject of humour in the everyday politics of globalization. It begins by drawing out three related concepts of resistance, carnival, and subversion to reflect on how joking and pranks can critique, but also reproduce, the inequalities and exclusions of market life. The chapter then analyses the ethical, social, and political functions of comedy. Satirical resistance has contributed to seemingly laudable interventions in the sphere of international development, like the Comic Relief fundraiser and the Make Poverty History campaign. Humour therefore seems to carry a productive association with issues of global justice and responsibility. Yet postcolonial scholars, and comedians themselves, have questioned the privileged agency of the white, male, Western comedian typically at the centre of such interventions. Moreover, the widespread circulation of humour and irreverence within the public sphere might even create an opportunity for the ‘weaponization’ of irony by populists and authoritarian states.
EndophyticPenicillium oxalicumCX-1 preventedPhytophthora cactorumblight onSalvia miltiorrhizaand promoted plant growth
Authors: Ai Mingkun , Han Feng , Yang Xiangyi , Chu Hongyi , Luo Chuan , Tan Shixin , Lv Sainan , Qin Minjian , Xie Guoyong
Published: January 2023

Aim

The main purpose of this study was to study the preventive effect of Penicillium sp. CX-1 on Phytophthora cactorum causing Salvia miltiorrhiza blight and its positive effect on plant growth.

Methods and Results

The endophytic strain CX-1 was isolated from the medicinal plant Corydalis saxicola Bunting and identified as Penicillium oxalicum. The growth inhibitory capacity of CX-1 against Ph. cactorum was 74.4% in the strain co-culture test and 86.2% in filtrate-modified plates. In the pot experiment, the in vivo control of CX-1 against Ph. cactorum in S. miltiorrhiza was 36.0%, which was higher than that of an anti-Phytophthora fungicide (23.4%). In addition, CX-1 had a potent ability to solubilize phosphate and also showed the ability to produce the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and siderophores, which increase the bioavailability of iron to plants. It was demonstrated through pot experiments that CX-1 could significantly promote plant growth. As determined by real-time quantitative PCR, the expression of some S. miltiorrhiza tanshinone-related biosynthesis genes was significantly upregulated following colonization by CX-1.

Conclusion

Strain CX-1 could effectively inhibit Ph. cactorum, the causative agent of S. miltiorrhiza blight, and significantly promoted the growth of plants through several different routes.
A systematic review of the effectiveness of patient education through patient portals
Authors: Johnson Adam M , Brimhall Andrew S , Johnson Erica T , Hodgson Jennifer , Didericksen Katharine , Pye Joseph , Harmon G J Corey , Sewell Kerry B
Published: January 2023

Lay Summary

Patient portals provide patients access to health records, lab results, medication refills, educational materials, secure messaging, appointment scheduling, and telehealth visits, allowing patients to take a more active role in their health care decisions and management. This article systematically reviewed all literature regarding patient education through patient portals to determine its effectiveness in improving patient engagement and ability to manage their health conditions. The results found that efforts are being made to raise awareness of educational resources in patient portals, that patients are increasingly utilizing these resources, that patients are finding them useful, and that they are improving health outcomes. It seems that patient portals are becoming a powerful tool for patient engagement and show promise as a means of improving patients’ health. Continued efforts need to be made to raise awareness of patient educational resources in patient portals so that patients utilize these resources to increase their knowledge, skills, and confidence for managing their own health and health care.
Appendiceal diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Hui Martha Lok-Yung , Ng Justin Ho-Yin , Cummings Olivia , Chen Nelson
Published: January 2023

Appendiceal diverticulitis is known as a rare pathology and its etiology remains largely unknown. We describe a case of a 41-year-old woman with a past history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who was admitted to the Emergency Department at a rural hospital in Australia with right iliac fossa pain (RIF) and later was found to have acute appendiceal diverticulitis on histopathologic studies. Thus far, no literature has described IBD as one of the possible contributing factors of appendiceal diverticulitis. This paper aims to shed light on the possible causative relation between appendiceal diverticulitis and IBD.
Study of pulsar flux density and its variability with Parkes data archive
Authors: Wang Ziyang , Wang Jingbo , Wang Na , Dai Shi , Xie Jintao
Published: January 2023

We present average flux density measurements of 151 radio pulsars at 1.4 GHz with the Parkes ‘Murriyang’ radio telescope. We recommend our results be included in the next version of the Australia Telescope National Facility Pulsar Catalogue. The large sample of pulsars together with their wide dispersion measure (DM) range makes this data set useful for studying variability of flux density, pulsar spectra, and interstellar medium (ISM). We derive the modulation indices and structure-function from the flux density time series for 95 and 54 pulsars, respectively. We suggest the modulation index also be included in the next version of the pulsar catalogue to manifest the variability of pulsar flux density. The modulation index of flow density and DM are negatively correlated. The refractive scintillation (RISS) time-scales or its lower bound for a set of 15 pulsars are derived. They are very different from theoretical expectations, implying the complicated properties of the ISM along different lines of sight. The structure-function for other pulsars is flat. The RISS parameters for some of these pulsars possibly could be derived with different observing strategies in the future.
Structural insights into viral genome replication by the severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus L protein
Authors: Williams Harry M , Thorkelsson Sigurdur R , Vogel Dominik , Milewski Morlin , Busch Carola , Cusack Stephen , Grünewald Kay , Quemin Emmanuelle R J , Rosenthal Maria
Published: January 2023

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a phenuivirus that has rapidly become endemic in several East Asian countries. The large (L) protein of SFTSV, which includes the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), is responsible for catalysing viral genome replication and transcription. Here, we present 5 cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the L protein in several states of the genome replication process, from pre-initiation to late-stage elongation, at a resolution of up to 2.6 Å. We identify how the L protein binds the 5′ viral RNA in a hook-like conformation and show how the distal 5′ and 3′ RNA ends form a duplex positioning the 3′ RNA terminus in the RdRp active site ready for initiation. We also observe the L protein stalled in the early and late stages of elongation with the RdRp core accommodating a 10-bp product-template duplex. This duplex ultimately splits with the template binding to a designated 3′ secondary binding site. The structural data and observations are complemented by in vitro biochemical and cell-based mini-replicon assays. Altogether, our data provide novel key insights into the mechanism of viral genome replication by the SFTSV L protein and will aid drug development against segmented negative-strand RNA viruses.
Phosphorylation of TRF2 promotes its interaction with TIN2 and regulates DNA damage response at telomeres
Authors: Storchova Radka , Palek Matous , Palkova Natalie , Veverka Pavel , Brom Tomas , Hofr Ctirad , Macurek Libor
Published: January 2023

Protein phosphatase magnesium-dependent 1 delta (PPM1D) terminates the cell cycle checkpoint by dephosphorylating the tumour suppressor protein p53. By targeting additional substrates at chromatin, PPM1D contributes to the control of DNA damage response and DNA repair. Using proximity biotinylation followed by proteomic analysis, we identified a novel interaction between PPM1D and the shelterin complex that protects telomeric DNA. In addition, confocal microscopy revealed that endogenous PPM1D localises at telomeres. Further, we found that ATR phosphorylated TRF2 at S410 after induction of DNA double strand breaks at telomeres and this modification increased after inhibition or loss of PPM1D. TRF2 phosphorylation stimulated its interaction with TIN2 both in vitro and at telomeres. Conversely, induced expression of PPM1D impaired localisation of TIN2 and TPP1 at telomeres. Finally, recruitment of the DNA repair factor 53BP1 to the telomeric breaks was strongly reduced after inhibition of PPM1D and was rescued by the expression of TRF2-S410A mutant. Our results suggest that TRF2 phosphorylation promotes the association of TIN2 within the shelterin complex and regulates DNA repair at telomeres.
Magical Thinking in Public Policy
Authors: Boswell John
Published: January 2023

Contemporary policy scholars tend to be cynical about reform movements that hope to make policymaking more rational or more democratic. Scholars point to the pathologies and vagaries of realpolitik that render ideals such as evidence-based policymaking, long-term prevention, collaboration, transparency and citizen engagement unattainable. Increasingly, many go further to warn about the democratic dangers in the foolhardy pursuit of these goals. The fact is, however, that scholarly objections about political obstacles and practical constraints are not news to policy actors themselves—they are acutely aware of the challenges of policy work amid uncertainty, complexity and contestation. They privately express doubt, frustration and cynicism, too. Yet still they continue to support, promote and work towards these key aspirations in practice. Why do naïve ideals about better policymaking persist even in such cynical times? This book unpacks this puzzle to reveal the careful reflection behind apparent ‘magical thinking’ in public policy. Through rich case studies and wide-ranging theoretical discussion, it offers novel insight into the continuing appeal of seemingly naïve ideals. In particular, it shows how turning to these ideals helps actors to reconcile and resolve key dilemmas and challenges in their everyday work. Ultimately, the book offers a nuanced and spirited defence of the value of clinging on to seemingly naïve ideals for better policymaking, even in the face of inevitable failures and disappointments.
Introduction to Mechanics of Solid Materials
Authors: Anand Lallit , Kamrin Ken , Govindjee Sanjay
Published: January 2023

Introduction to Mechanics of Solid Materials is concerned with the deformation, flow, and fracture of solid materials. This book offers a unified presentation of the major concepts in Solid Mechanics for junior/senior-level undergraduate students in the many branches of engineering --- mechanical, materials, civil, and aeronautical engineering among others. The book begins by covering the basics of kinematics and strain, and stress and equilibrium, followed by a coverage of the small deformation theories for different types of material response: (i) Elasticity; (ii) Plasticity and Creep; (iii) Fracture and Fatigue; and (iv) Viscoelasticity. The book has additional chapters covering the important material classes of: (v) Rubber Elasticity, and (vi) Continuous-fiber laminated composites. The text includes numerous examples to aid the student.
History of South Africa
Authors: Simpson Thula
Published: January 2023

South Africa was born in war, has been cursed by crises and ruptures, and today stands on a precipice once again. This book explores the country's tumultuous journey from the finale of the Second Anglo-Boer War, to 2021. Drawing on sources including diaries, letters, oral testimony, and diplomatic reports, Thula Simpson follows the South African people through the battles, elections, resistance, strikes, insurrections, massacres, financial crashes and epidemics that have shaped the nation. Tracking South Africa's path from colony to Union, and apartheid to democracy, Simpson documents the influence of key figures including Jan Smuts, Nelson Mandela, Steve Biko, P.W. Botha, Thabo Mbeki and Cyril Ramaphosa. He offers detailed accounts of watershed events like the 1922 Rand Revolt, the Defiance Campaign, Sharpeville, the Soweto uprising, and the Marikana massacre. He sheds light on the roles of Gandhi, Churchill, Castro and Thatcher, the impact of the World Wars, the liberation struggle, and the Border War. Simpson's history charts the post-apartheid phases of ANC rule from the Rainbow Nation to state capture and the "New Dawn". Along the way, it reveals the divisions and solidarities of sport; the nation's economic travails; and pandemics from the Spanish flu, to AIDS, to COVID-19.
Small RNA-mediated DNA methylation during plant reproduction
Authors: Chow Hiu Tung , Mosher Rebecca A
Published: January 2023

Reproductive tissues are a rich source of small RNAs, including several classes of short interfering (si)RNAs that are restricted to this stage of development. In addition to RNA polymerase IV-dependent 24-nt siRNAs that trigger canonical RNA-directed DNA methylation, abundant reproductive-specific siRNAs are produced from companion cells adjacent to the developing germ line or zygote and may move intercellularly before inducing methylation. In some cases, these siRNAs are produced via non-canonical biosynthesis mechanisms or from sequences with little similarity to transposons. While the precise role of these siRNAs and the methylation they trigger is unclear, they have been implicated in specifying a single megaspore mother cell, silencing transposons in the male germ line, mediating parental dosage conflict to ensure proper endosperm development, hypermethylation of mature embryos, and trans-chromosomal methylation in hybrids. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of reproductive siRNAs, including their biosynthesis, transport, and function.
Ultrasound-guided Versus Computed Tomography Fluoroscopy-assisted Cervical Transforaminal Steroid Injection for the Treatment of Radicular Pain in the Lower Cervical Spine
Authors: Yue Li , Zheng Shuyue , Hua Lei , Li Hongfu , Yang Yuchen , Li Juanhong , He Liangliang
Published: January 2023

Object:

To estimate the contrast dispersion short-term clinical efficacy and safety of ultrasound (US)-guided transforaminal steroid injection (TFSI) compared with computed tomography (CT) guidance for the treatment of cervical radicular pain.

Method:

A total of 430 patients with cervical radicular pain from cervical herniated disk or cervical spondylosis were recruited in the randomized, single-blind, controlled, noninferiority trial. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either the US-guided or CT-guided TFSI for 1 affected cervical nerve. The dispersion pattern of contrast was monitored at the time of TFSI in both groups, using CT. Patients were assessed for pain intensity by numeric rating scale (NrS) and functional disability by Neck Disability Index (NDI) at baseline, 1 and 3 months after the intervention. Complications were also recorded.

Results:

The satisfactory rate of contrast distribution was respectively 92.1% in US group and 95.8% in CT group. Pain reduction and functional improvement were showed in both groups during follow-up. Statistical difference was not observed in the decrease in NRS pain scores and NDI scores between 2 groups with F=1.050, P=0.306 at 1 month and F=0.103, P=0.749 at 3 months after intervention. No permanent and severe complications were observed.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that US provided a noninferior injectate spread pattern and similar improvement of radicular pain and functional status when compared with CT-guided TFSI. US may be advantageous during this procedure because it allows visualization of critical vessels and avoids radiation exposure.
Salter osteotomy has lower fluoroscopy exposure time compared to Tonnis lateral acetabuloplasty
Authors: Sevencan Ahmet , Akpinar Evren , Ucpunar Hanifi , Akbulut Deniz , Ozyalvac Osman Nuri , Bayhan Avni Ilhan
Published: January 2023

Salter osteotomy and Tonnis lateral acetabuloplasty (TLA) are pelvic osteotomies with similar indications and clinical results used in the treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The aim of our study was to compare the intraoperative fluoroscopy exposure time (FET) in patients with DDH treated with the Salter osteotomy and TLA. In this study, data were collected prospectively and compared after the study was completed. The patients were evaluated in three groups: pelvic osteotomy (group 1), open reduction with pelvic osteotomy (group 2) and open reduction + pelvic osteotomy + femoral shortening (group 3). Pelvic osteotomy techniques in each group were further analyzed in two subgroups as Salter osteotomy and TLA. Age, sex, surgery side, degree of dysplasia according to the Tönnis classification, duration of anesthesia and intraoperative FET (seconds) were recorded. A total of 109 patients (93 girls and 16 boys) were included in the study; 29 patients in group 1, 50 in group 2 and 30 in group 3. Although the patients who underwent Salter osteotomy and TLA were similar in all three groups in terms of age, sex, surgery side, Tönnis classification and duration of anesthesia, FET was longer in the patients who underwent TLA (group 1, P < 0.001; group 2, P < 0.001; group 3, P = 0.005). The use of the Salter osteotomy technique in the treatment of acetabular dysplasia in patients with DDH seems to be more advantageous in terms of FET than TLA osteotomy. It would be beneficial to consider this result in terms of radiation safety. Level of Evidence: II.
Opioid Represcriptions After ACL Reconstruction in Adolescents Are Associated With Subsequent Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Cahan Eli M. , Halvorsen Kristin C. , Pham Nicole S. , Kaur Japsimran , Bryson Xochitl M. , Chan Charles M. , Vorhies John S.
Published: January 2023

Introduction:

Postoperative opioid prescriptions may confer a risk for subsequent opioid use disorders (OUDs). For many children, postoperative analgesia is often the first opioid exposure. The rates of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in pediatric populations are rising. Here, we use an administrative claims database to describe opioid prescription patterns after ACL reconstruction and their effect on subsequent risk of OUD.

Methods:

Using International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9, ICD-10, and CPT codes, we identified patients, with ages 10 to 18, undergoing primary ACL reconstruction between 2014 and 2016 with minimum 1 year follow-up in the Optum Clinformatics Data Mart, which is a nationally representative administrative claims database. Demographic variables and prescription patterns (in morphine milligram equivalents [MMEs]) were analyzed using univariate tests and multivariable logistic regression to determine any potential association with the appearance of anew an ICD-9 or ICD-10 code for OUD within 1 year of the initial procedure.

Results:

A total of 4459 cases were included and 29 (0.7%) of these patients were diagnosed with an OUD within 1 year of surgery. Upon univariate analysis, opioid represcriptions within 6 weeks were significantly more common among patients with OUD; 27.6% vs. 9.7% of patients that did not develop a new diagnosis of OUD (P=0.005). Multivariable logistic regression indicated an independent significant relationship between total MMEs initially prescribed and the odds of a subsequent OUD diagnosis: for each additional 100 MMEs prescribed in total, the odds of OUD increased by 13% (P=0.002). Patients with a represcription within 6 weeks of surgery had an average increase in the odds of OUD by 161% (P=0.027).

Conclusions:

In this cohort of patient ages 10 to 18 undergoing primary isolated ACL reconstruction, we found substantial variability in opiate prescribing patterns and higher initial opioid prescription volume, as well as opioid represcription within 6 weeks were predictive of the subsequent development of OUD.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
The global epidemiology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): a systematic review
Authors: Younossi Zobair M. , Golabi Pegah , Paik James M. , Henry Austin , Van Dongen Catherine , Henry Linda
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims:

NAFLD is a leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality. We assessed the global and regional prevalence, incidence, and mortality of NAFLD using an in-depth meta-analytic approach.

Approach and Results:

PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE were searched for NAFLD population-based studies from 1990 to 2019 survey year (last published 2022) per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models. Bias risk assessment was per Joanna Briggs Institute. Of 2585 studies reviewed, 92 studies (N=9,361,716) met eligibility criteria. Across the study period (1990–2019), meta-analytic pooling of NAFLD prevalence estimates and ultrasound-defined NAFLD yielded an overall global prevalence of 30.05% (95% CI: 27.88%–32.32%) and 30.69% (28.4–33.09), respectively. Global NAFLD prevalence increased by +50.4% from 25.26% (21.59–29.33) in 1990–2006 to 38.00% (33.71–42.49) in 2016–2019 (p<0.001); ultrasound-defined NAFLD prevalence increased by +38.7% from 25.16% (19.46–31.87) in 1990–2006 to 34.59% (29.05–40.57) (p=0.029). The highest NAFLD prevalence was in Latin America 44.37% (30.66%–59.00%), then Middle East and North Africa (MENA) (36.53%, 28.63%–45.22%), South Asia (33.83%, 22.91%–46.79%), South-East Asia (33.07%, 18.99%–51.03%), North America (31.20%, 25.86%–37.08%), East Asia (29.71%, 25.96%–33.76%), Asia Pacific 28.02% (24.69%–31.60%), Western Europe 25.10% (20.55%–30.28%). Among the NAFLD cohort diagnosed without a liver biopsy, pooled mortality rate per 1000 PY was 12.60 (6.68–23.67) for all-cause mortality; 4.20 (1.34–7.05) for cardiac-specific mortality; 2.83 (0.78–4.88) for extrahepatic cancer-specific mortality; and 0.92 (0.00–2.21) for liver-specific mortality.

Conclusions:

NAFLD global prevalence is 30% and increasing which requires urgent and comprehensive strategies to raise awareness and address all aspects of NAFLD on local, regional, and global levels.
Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 polymorphisms and breast cancer susceptibility: Evidence from a meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Hao-Yun , Liu Chao-Yu , Lo Yen-Li , Chiou Shih-Hwa , Lu Kai-Hsi , Lee Ming-Cheng , Wang Yuan-Hung
Published: January 2023

Background:

Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) is an immune checkpoint and regulates the immune function of T cells. However, previous findings regarding the association of CTLA-4 polymorphisms and breast cancer remain inconclusive. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to investigate the potential effects of five polymorphisms (−1722 T/C, −1661 A/G −318 C/T, +49 A/G, and CT60 A/G) in the CTLA-4 gene on breast cancer susceptibility.

Methods:

Relevant literatures were systematically searched through electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science up to October 10, 2021. Available data were extracted and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate the pooling effect size. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was applied for assessing the quality of included studies. We conducted subgroup analyses based on ethnicity and control sources to explore levels of heterogeneity. Moreover, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were assessed.

Results:

Finally, a total of 12 eligible studies regarding CTLA-4 polymorphisms and breast cancer were included. For overall analyses, only the +49 A/G polymorphism was significantly associated with breast cancer under allelic (OR = 1.19), dominant (OR = 1.27), and recessive (OR = 1.27) models. Ethnicity-based subgroup analysis found that the +49 A/G polymorphism has a significant risk (OR = 2.03) of breast cancer under the recessive model in the non-Asian population. Studies with hospital-based controls showed that the +49 A/G polymorphism has significant breast cancer risks under allelic (OR = 1.44), dominant (OR = 1.86), and recessive (OR = 1.60) models. In addition, those with population-based controls found that −1722 T/C polymorphism has a significant breast cancer risk under allelic (OR = 1.19) and dominant (OR = 1.26) models.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis suggested that CTLA-4 + 49 A/G polymorphism may significantly associate with breast cancer susceptibility. Future studies containing various populations are helpful for evaluating the impacts of CTLA-4 polymorphisms on breast cancer susceptibility.
Recurrent Catatonia: Infection and Immunity in an Idiopathic Illness
Authors: Tiwari Sucheta , Akyuz Elvan , Das Ambalika
Published: January 2023

Catatonia can be associated with multiple physical and mental illnesses, and idiopathic catatonia is a well-recognized clinical entity. Here we report a case of recurrent idiopathic catatonia with underlying immunologic abnormalities, with an emphasis on etiological hypotheses. An 18-year-old female with mild learning disability, dyspraxia, autoimmune hypothyroidism, and nonceliac gluten intolerance was referred to mental health services after developing an episode of catatonia following tonsillitis. She had experienced 2 previous episodes suggestive of catatonia, one of which developed after a snakebite and the other after a viral infection. Samples of cerebrospinal fluid and whole blood tested positive for human herpesvirus (HHV) on DNA-polymerase chain reaction testing during her third episode, but the patient had no signs of encephalitis. She responded well to lorazepam but developed significant side effects with low-dose olanzapine and aripiprazole. She returned to her usual baseline with medical management. Very little is known about possible etiologies of recurrent idiopathic catatonia. An atypical response to an HHV infection is a likely cause of one of the episodes in this case. There is substantial evidence connecting immune dysregulation to mental illnesses. Proinflammatory effects of latent HHV, proinflammatory genetic polymorphisms related to learning disability, and autoimmune dysfunction are likely factors that may have contributed to the development of recurrent catatonia following external antigen exposure in this case. Future research should focus on immune-mediated etiologies of catatonia, the role of immunotherapy in the treatment of idiopathic catatonia, and systems research to improve multidisciplinary management of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Mutation of GPR143 Associated With Ocular Albinism Type 1, Intellectual Disability, and Schizophrenia: The Complex Biological and Social Interactions Between Genetic Syndromes and Mental Illness
Authors: Arcadepani Felipe B. , Gadelha Ary , Margolis Russell L.
Published: January 2023

Copy number variations, which manifest primarily as deletions and duplications, contribute significantly to the genetic risk of schizophrenia. Specific syndromes associated with copy number variations, exemplified by the 22q11 deletion syndrome, confer both congenital abnormalities and an elevated risk of schizophrenia. We report the case of a patient with a deletion of exons 2 through 8 ofGPR143. In addition to having the ophthalmologic disorder ocular albinism type 1 (OA1), a well-established consequence of mutations ofGPR143, the patient is also intellectually impaired and impulsive, and he developed schizophrenia at age 15. Psychiatric manifestations of OA1 have not previously been reported, yet remain plausible, as theGPR143protein is widely distributed in the brain and may function as an L-DOPA receptor. However, the patient described here also had a family history of psychiatric disorders independent of OA1, in utero exposure to heroin and cocaine, and challenging family circumstances. We suggest that the relationship between hisGPR143mutation and his psychiatric disorders is complex. The mutation may have directly contributed to his cognitive and psychiatric disorders, but we also suspect that OA1, present in multiple family members, contributed to multigenerational familial instability. Further, OA1 likely exacerbated our patient’s cognitive and social impairment by interfering with his education, while his neuropsychiatric status frequently interfered with the assessment and treatment of his OA1. We conclude that the psychiatric and nonpsychiatric manifestations of a genetic syndrome are best managed in parallel and that psychiatrists and other mental health providers may be in the best position to assure that patients receive appropriate genetic and medical care.
Effectiveness and Clinical Usefulness of Electronic Agenda-setting in Psychiatric Practices: A South Texas Psychiatric PBRN Study
Authors: Deuter Melissa , Martinez Cervando , Preikschat Bailey , Daniels Jennifer , Machuca Alejandro , Martinez Melissa , King Van , Ticknor Christopher , Tierney John , Roybal Donna
Published: January 2023

There is a general consensus that the doctor-patient interview should be as productive and efficient as possible. This is becoming increasingly difficult in a health care insurance system that demands shorter appointment times. Clinicians must therefore find ways to condense the clinical encounter without sacrificing quality. The purposes of this study were: (1) to facilitate shared decision-making between psychiatrist and patient via pre-visit patient agenda-setting, (2) to evaluate the effectiveness and ease of use of the agenda-setting tool, and (3) to determine patient and clinician satisfaction with the clinical encounter. Patients completed questionnaires to assist in agenda-setting via an electronic tablet while in the waiting area before seeing the psychiatrist. Both patients and psychiatrists then completed post-visit questionnaires to assess their satisfaction with the encounter. We measured patient satisfaction and the extent to which the psychiatrist addressed concerns before and after the visit, as well as ease of use for the patient, psychiatrist satisfaction, and clinical helpfulness to the treating psychiatrist. Additional analyses also indicated that there was a significant increase in patient satisfaction scores, compared with an average of all previous visits, and a significant increase in the number of concerns addressed during the current visit when compared with the average number of previous concerns addressed. Patients reported little difficulty using the tablet. Similarly, psychiatrists reported that the device was helpful in the clinical setting and they expressed high levels of satisfaction with the visit. We hope our work will encourage others to use this agenda-setting tool in their practices to facilitate better patient care.
Differentiating Peripherally Located Pulmonary Noncalcified Hamartoma From Carcinoid Using CT Radiomics Approaches
Authors: Yang Xiaohuang , Li Congrui , Hou Jing , Xiong Zhengping , Lin Huashan , Wu Shihang , Yu Xiaoping
Published: January 2023

Objective

This article aimed to differentiate noncalcified hamartoma from pulmonary carcinoid preoperatively using computed tomography (CT) radiomics approaches.

Materials and Methods

The unenhanced CT (UECT) and contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) data of noncalcified hamartoma (n = 73) and pulmonary carcinoid (n = 54; typical/atypical carcinoid = 13/41) were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were randomly divided into the training and validation sets. A total of 396 radiomics features were extracted from UECT and CECT, respectively. The features were selected by using the minimum redundancy maximum relevance and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator to construct a radiomics model. Clinical factors and radiomics features were integrated to build a nomogram model. The performance of clinical factors, radiomics, and nomogram models on the differential diagnosis between noncalcified hamartoma and carcinoid were investigated. Diagnostic performance of radiologists was also explored.

Result

In regard to distinguishing noncalcified hamartoma from carcinoid, the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of the clinical, radiomics, and nomogram models were 0.88, 0.94, and 0.96 in the training set UECT, and were 0.85, 0.92, and 0.96 in the training set CECT, respectively. The areas under the curve of the 3 models were 0.89, 0.96, and 0.96 in the validation set UECT, and were 0.79, 0.90, and 0.94 in the validation set CECT, respectively. The nomogram model exhibited good calibration and was clinically useful by decision curve analysis. Nomogram did not show significant improvement compared with radiomics, neither for UECT nor for CECT. Diagnostic performance of radiologists was lower than both radiomics and nomogram model.

Conclusions

Radiomics approaches may be useful in distinguishing peripheral pulmonary noncalcified hamartoma from carcinoid. Radiomics features extracted from CECT provided no significant benefit when compared with UECT.
Ultrasound Evaluation of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Authors: Zalaquett Eugenio , Gunabushanam Gowthaman , Vallejos Antonio , Dahiya Nirvikar
Published: January 2023

Chronic venous insufficiency is a common condition caused by valvular incompetence and/or obstruction of the lower extremity venous system. Chronic venous insufficiency presents in a wide range of clinical presentations, ranging from mild pain or edema to the development of varicose veins and nonhealing venous ulcers. Doppler ultrasound is the preferred imaging modality in the assessment of this condition and provides both anatomical and functional information in a noninvasive, cost-effective, and radiation-free manner. Knowledge of the anatomy and nomenclature, pathophysiology, equipment requisites, scanning protocols, relevant findings, and reporting nuances is essential to the creation of an accurate and clinically actionable report. Evaluation of the superficial and deep venous system for degree and extent of reflux is necessary to establish the diagnosis and to institute appropriate treatment.
ASSOCIATIONS OF THE SERUM ALBUMIN CONCENTRATION AND SEQUENTIAL ORGAN FAILURE ASSESSMENT SCORE AT DISCHARGE WITH 1-YEAR MORTALITY IN SEPSIS SURVIVORS: A RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Lee Sang-Min , Jo You Hwan , Lee Jae Hyuk , Hwang Ji Eun , Park Inwon , Baek Sumin , Jeong Hwain , Um Young Woo , Kim Hee Eun
Published: January 2023

Introduction: This study was performed to investigate the predictors of 1-year mortality at discharge in sepsis survivors. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of patients with sepsis and septic shock at a single center. Patients who survived hospitalization for sepsis or septic shock between January 2016 and December 2017 were included in this study. Age, sex, body mass index, laboratory results such as blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin levels, the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score at the time of discharge and site of infection were compared between the survivors and nonsurvivors at 1 year postdischarge. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify the predictors of 1-year mortality. Results: During the study period, 725 sepsis patients were included in the analysis, 64 (8.8%) of whom died within the first year. The nonsurvivors were older and had a lower body mass index and a higher SOFA score at discharge than the survivors (P < 0.05). Among the laboratory results at discharge, hemoglobin, platelet counts, and albumin concentrations were lower in the nonsurvivors than in the survivors, whereas CRP was higher in the nonsurvivors than in the survivors. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, serum albumin <2.5 mg/dL and SOFA score ≥2 at discharge were identified as independent prognostic factors for 1-year mortality (odds ratio, 2.616; 95% confidence interval, 1.437–4.751 for albumin <2.5 mg/dL and 2.106, 1.199–3.801 for SOFA score ≥2, respectively). Conclusions: A low serum albumin concentration of <2.5 mg/dL and a high SOFA score of ≥2 at the time of discharge were prognostic factors for 1-year mortality in survivors of sepsis.
Multiphysics modelling of light-actuated liquid crystal elastomers
Authors: Brighenti Roberto , Cosma Mattia P.
Published: January 2023

Liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) represent a promising class of responsive polymers whose physical properties are peculiar to both fluids and solids. Thanks to their microscale structure made of elongated rigid molecules (mesogens)—characterized by their capability to reversibly switch from an isotropic to an ordered state—LCEs exhibit a number of remarkable physical effects, such as self-deformation and mechanical actuation triggered by external stimuli. Efficient and physics-based modelling, aimed at designing and optimizing LCE-based devices (such as artificial muscles, deployable structures, soft actuators, etc.), is a fundamental tool to quantitatively describe their mechanical behaviour in real applications. In the present study, we illustrate the multi-physics modelling of light-driven deformation of LCEs, based on the photo-thermal energy conversion. The role played by the light diffusion and heat transfer within the medium is considered and their effect on the obtainable actuation is studied through numerical simulations based on the multi-physics theory developed.
Mutations in coral soma and sperm imply lifelong stem cell renewal and cell lineage selection
Authors: López-Nandam Elora H. , Albright Rebecca , Hanson Erik A. , Sheets Elizabeth A. , Palumbi Stephen R.
Published: January 2023

In many animals, the germline differentiates early in embryogenesis, so only mutations that accumulate in germ cells are inherited by offspring. Exceptions to this developmental process may indicate other mechanisms have evolved to limit the effects of deleterious mutation accumulation. Stony corals are animals that can live for hundreds of years and have been thought to produce gametes from somatic tissue. To clarify conflicting evidence about germline-soma distinction in corals, we sequenced high coverage, full genomes with technical replicates for parent coral branches and their sperm pools. We identified post-embryonic single nucleotide variants (SNVs) unique to each parent branch, then checked if each SNV was shared by the respective sperm pool. Twenty-six per cent of post-embryonic SNVs were shared by the sperm and 74% were not. We also identified germline SNVs, those that were present in the sperm but not in the parent. These data suggest that self-renewing stem cells differentiate into germ and soma throughout the adult life of the colony, with SNV rates and patterns differing markedly in stem, soma and germ lineages. In addition to informing the evolution of germlines in metazoans, these insights inform how corals may generate adaptive diversity necessary in the face of global climate change.
Group reciprocity and the evolution of stereotyping
Authors: Stewart Alexander J. , Raihani Nichola
Published: January 2023

Stereotypes are generalized beliefs about groups of people, which are used to make decisions and judgements about them. Although such heuristics can be useful when decisions must be made quickly, or when information is lacking, they can also serve as the basis for prejudice and discrimination. In this paper, we study the evolution of stereotypes through group reciprocity. We characterize the warmth of a stereotype as the willingness to cooperate with an individual based solely on the identity of the group they belong to. We show that when stereotype groups are large, such group reciprocity is less likely to evolve, and stereotypes tend to be negative. We also show that, even when stereotypes are broadly positive, individuals are often overly pessimistic about the willingness of those they stereotype to cooperate. We then show that the tendency for stereotyping itself to evolve is driven by the costs of cognition, so that more people are stereotyped with greater coarseness as costs increase. Finally we show that extrinsic ‘shocks’, in which the benefits of cooperation are suddenly reduced, can cause stereotype warmth and judgement bias to turn sharply negative, consistent with the view that economic and other crises are drivers of out-group animosity.
The island biogeography of human population size
Authors: Mologni Fabio , Burns Kevin C.
Published: January 2023

For decades, biogeographers have sought a better understanding of how organisms are distributed among islands. However, the island biogeography of humans remains largely unknown. Here, we investigate how human population size varies among 486 islands at two spatial scales. At a global scale, we tested whether population size increases with island area and declines with island elevation and nearest mainland, as is common in non-human species, or whether humans escape such biogeographic constraints. At a regional scale, we tested whether population sizes vary among islands within archipelagos according to the positioning of different cultural source pools. Results illustrate that on a global scale, human populations increased in size with island area, similar to non-human species, yet they did not decline in size with elevation and distance to nearest mainland. At a regional scale, human population size often varied among islands within archipelagos relative to the location of different cultural source pools. Despite broad-scale similarities in the geographical distribution of human and non-human species among islands, results from this study indicate that the island biogeography of humans may also be influenced by archipelago-specific social, political and historical circumstances.