bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology, risk factors and impact of cachexia on patient outcome: Results from the Japanese Lung Cancer Registry Study
Authors: Shukuya Takehito , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Shintani Yasushi , Miura Keita , Sekine Ikuo , Takayama Koichi , Inoue Akira , Okamoto Isamu , Kiura Katsuyuki , Kawaguchi Tomoya , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Miyaoka Etsuo , Yoshino Ichiro , Date Hiroshi
Published: March 2023

Background

Cancer cachexia is a syndrome that does not fully recover with nutritional support and causes appetite loss and body weight loss. It worsens a patient's quality of life and prognosis. In this study, the epidemiology of cachexia in lung cancer, its risk factors and its impact on chemotherapy response rate and prognosis were examined using the national database of the Japan Lung Cancer Society. Understanding these things related to cancer cachexia is important as a starting point in overcoming cancer cachexia in patients with lung cancer.

Methods

In 2012, 12 320 patients from 314 institutions in Japan were registered in a nationwide registry database (Japanese Lung Cancer Registry Study). Of these, data on body weight loss within 6 months were available for 8489 patients. We defined the patients with body weight loss ≥ 5% within 6 months, which is one of the three criteria listed in the 2011 international consensus definition of cancer cachexia, as cachectic in this study.

Results

Approximately 20.4% of the 8489 patients had cancer cachexia. Sex, age, smoking history, emphysema, performance status, superior vena cava syndrome, clinical stage, site of metastasis, histology, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation status, primary treatment method and serum albumin levels were significantly different between patients with and without cachexia. Logistic analyses showed that smoking history, emphysema, clinical stage, site of metastasis, histology, EGFR mutation, serum calcium and albumin levels were significantly associated with cancer cachexia. The response to initial therapy, including chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy or radiotherapy, was significantly poorer in the patients with cachexia than in those without cachexia (response rate: 49.7% vs. 41.5%, P < 0.001). Overall survival was significantly shorter in the patients with cachexia than in those without cachexia in both univariate and multivariable analyses (1‐year survival rate: 60.7% vs. 37.6%, Cox proportional hazards model, hazard ratio: 1.369, 95% confidence interval: 1.274–1.470, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Cancer cachexia was seen in approximately one fifth of the lung cancer patients and was related to some baseline patient characteristics. It was also associated with a poor response to initial treatment, resulting in poor prognosis. The results of our study may be useful for early identification and intervention in patients with cachexia, which may improve their response to treatment and their prognosis.
Mapping the performance of photobioreactors for microalgae cultivation. Part III: subtropical and mid‐latitudes climate zone
Authors: Dias Rosangela R. , da Silva Patricia A. , Deprá Mariany C. , Deprá Bruno , Wagner Roger , Zepka Leila Q. , Jacob‐Lopes Eduardo
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Identifying geographic locations with favorable climates for large‐scale openwork microalgae cultivation is a trend. In light of that, what we propose in this study is to map the performance of photobioreactors for microalgae culture in the subtropical (25° to 35° N and S) and mid‐latitudes (35° to 55° N and S) climate zones. Twenty geographic locations were chosen to represent 14 types of climates in the four seasons of the year. The study is a latitudinal, climatological and seasonal assessment.

RESULTS

The results showed that the subtropical climatic zone presents better conditions for microalgae growth with higher levels of biomass productivity and lipid productivity. The highest annual average biomass productivity (0.210 g L−1  d−1) and annual average lipid productivity (0.025 g L−1  d−1) were recorded in a simulation of hot desert climate (BWh). The winter season presents a minor potential for microalgae cultivation.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study shed light on the impact of subtropical and mid‐latitudes climate zone and seasons of the year on the performance of photoautotrophic microalgae‐based processes. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Differentiation of the composting stages of green waste using the CIELAB color model
Authors: Tsivas Dimosthenis , Vlyssides Apostolos , Vlysidis Anestis
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

CIELAB color variables can be used to monitor a composting process and evaluate the maturity of the compost with a new, rapid, easy, and low‐cost colorimetric analysis. However, to date there are no available data to support the ability of CIELAB color changes to depict the different stages of a composting procedure. This study aims to examine the correlation of CIELAB color variables with composting time to elucidate how color changes can be used to detect the different stages of a composting process. Two green waste industrial scale composting processes with different added materials were monitored using typical physicochemical and CIELAB color analyses.

RESULTS

During composting, color variables a*, b*, C*, and ΔΕ* exhibited fluctuations following a constant variation trend that correlated with each composting phase. This behavior depicts the transformation of the organic composition of compost, as described by Organic Carbon (OC), Carbon‐to‐Nitrogen ratio (C/N), Humic Acids (HA), and Fulvic Acids (FA). Moreover, color variables a*, b*, and C* showed strong relationships with OC, C/N, and HA/FA (R2 > 0.83) and with HA (R2 > 0.74). These results indicate that CIELAB color change follows the same general pattern for each composting procedure that utilizes the same main composting substrate, regardless of any differing additional materials.

CONCLUSION

Monitoring the CIELAB color variables made it possible to depict the different phases of composting, especially the transformation of the organic composition of the compost. Accurately monitoring CIELAB color variables distinguishes the different stages of a composting process through a rapid analysis at radically reduced costs compared to complex physicochemical analyses. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Preen gland of the laughing dove (Streptopelia senegalensis aegyptiaca): Light and electron microscopic analysis
Authors: Madkour Fatma A. , Choudhary Om Prakash , Kandyel Ramadan M.
Published: March 2023

This work reviews the microscopic anatomy of the preen gland in laughing dove (Streptopelia senegalensis aegyptiaca) using light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopes. The gland possessed two large pea‐shaped lobes. The glandular lobules of each lobe were huddled in elliptical, triangle, round shapes, connected with each other by strands of connective tissue septae. The lobule was composed of glandular follicles, each follicle folded and enclosed by a sheath of connective tissue connected with the neighboring ones by interfollicular septae. The gland's parenchyma was coated with a dense connective tissue capsule composed of collagen, elastic, and reticular fibers. The secretory tubules were divided into peripheral tubules and central tubules. The central ones were located close to the major cavity and lined with thin epithelium, whereas the peripheral tubules were adjacent to the capsule and characterized by taller epithelium. The central secretory tubules were lined with four cell layers: flattened basal, large‐sized polyhedral intermediate, and secretory cell layers, as well as a degenerative cells layer that formed of small cells with pale cytoplasm and pyknotic nuclei. Variable sizes and shapes of Herbst corpuscles were detected alongside the papillary duct and near the glandular lobe. Transmission electron microscopy view revealed that the cytoplasm of the intermediate cells contained a dense population of mitochondria, while the secretory and degenerative cells contained fewer mitochondria. In conclusion, these structures will be beneficial for understanding the habitat differences of laughing doves.

Research Highlights

Grossly, the preen gland (PG) of the laughing dove formed of two large pea‐shaped lobes.

The glandular lobule was composed of glandular follicles, each follicle was folded and enclosed by a sheath of connective tissue connected with the neighboring ones by interfollicular septae.

The central secretory tubules were lined with four cell layers: basal, intermediate, secretory, and degenerative cell layers.

Variable sizes and shapes of Herbst corpuscles were detected alongside the papillary duct and near the glandular lobe of the PG.

In transmission electron microscopic analysis, the cytoplasm of the intermediate cells contained a dense population of mitochondria, while the secretory and degenerative cells contained fewer mitochondria.
Biochar as a negative emission technology: A synthesis of field research on greenhouse gas emissions
Authors: Shrestha Raj K. , Jacinthe Pierre‐Andre , Lal Rattan , Lorenz Klaus , Singh Maninder P. , Demyan Scott M. , Ren Wei , Lindsey Laura E.
Published: March 2023

Biochar is one of the few nature‐based technologies with potential to help achieve net‐zero emissions agriculture. Such an outcome would involve the mitigation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission from agroecosystems and optimization of soil organic carbon sequestration. Interest in biochar application is heightened by its several co‐benefits. Several reviews summarized past investigations on biochar, but these reviews mostly included laboratory, greenhouse, and mesocosm experiments. A synthesis of field studies is lacking, especially from a climate change mitigation standpoint. Our objectives are to (1) synthesize advances in field‐based studies that have examined the GHG mitigation capacity of soil application of biochar and (2) identify limitations of the technology and research priorities. Field studies, published before 2022, were reviewed. Biochar has variable effects on GHG emissions, ranging from decrease, increase, to no change. Across studies, biochar reduced emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O) by 18% and methane (CH4) by 3% but increased carbon dioxide (CO2) by 1.9%. When biochar was combined with N‐fertilizer, it reduced CO2, CH4, and N2O emissions in 61%, 64%, and 84% of the observations, and biochar plus other amendments reduced emissions in 78%, 92%, and 85% of the observations, respectively. Biochar has shown potential to reduce GHG emissions from soils, but long‐term studies are needed to address discrepancies in emissions and identify best practices (rate, depth, and frequency) of biochar application to agricultural soils.
Genomic analysis of cervical carcinoma identifies Alpelisib as a therapeutic option for PIK3CA‐mutant cervical carcinoma via the PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Wei Ye , Lin Shitong , Zhi Wenhua , Chu Tian , Liu Binghan , Peng Ting , Xu Miaochun , Ding Wencheng , Cao Canhui , Wu Peng
Published: March 2023

Cervical carcinoma is a serious type of gynecological cancer that can affect women of all ages. Cervical carcinoma presents challenges for precision medicine, as not all tumors have specific gene mutations or alterations that can be targeted with existing drugs. Nonetheless, there are some promising targets in cervical carcinoma. Herein, genomic mutation data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer were used to identify genomic targets for cervical carcinoma. PIK3CA was the most mutant gene among the promising targets, especially in cervical squamous cell carcinoma, and the mutated genes of cervical carcinoma were enriched in the RTK/PI3K/MAPK and Hippo pathways. In vitro, PIK3CA‐mutant cervical cancer cell lines showed higher sensitivity to Alpelisib than cancer cells without the PIK3CA mutation and the normal cells (HCerEpic). Protein–protein networks and co‐immunoprecipitation of PIK3CA revealed reduced interaction between p110α and ATR in PIK3CA‐mutant cervical cancer cells, which were sensitive to the combination of Alpelisib and cisplatin in vivo. Furthermore, Alpelisib significantly suppressed the proliferation and migration of PIK3CA‐mutant cervical cancer cells via inhibition of the AKT/mTOR pathway. Overall, Alpelisib showed antitumor effects and enhance cisplatin efficacy in PIK3CA‐mutant cervical cancer cells via PI3K/AKT pathways. Our study demonstrated the therapeutic potential of Alpelisib in PIK3CA‐mutant cervical carcinoma, which provides insights into precision medicine in cervical carcinoma.
Trends of global burden related to HBV and HCV from 1990 to 2019: An age–period–cohort analysis
Authors: Wu Bin , Tobe Ruoyan Gai , Yan Mengxia , Lin Houwen , Zhou Hua
Published: March 2023

The spread of disease related to Hepatitis B and C poses a significant public health problem. There have been a few studies that examine the effects of cohort and period on the trend of mortality caused by Hepatitis B and C. This analysis aims to use an age–period–cohort (APC) framework to explore trends in mortality attributed to Hepatitis B and C worldwide and in different socio‐demographic index (SDI) regions between 1990 and 2019. The data for this analysis were taken from the Global Burden of Disease study, which was used to perform an APC analysis. The age effects reflect differences in exposure to risk factors at different stages of life. The period effects reflect population‐wide exposures at a circumscribed year. The cohort effects indicate different risks across birth cohorts. The results of the analysis include both the net drift and local drift, which are reported as the annual percentage change and that by age group. The age‐standardized mortality rate for Hepatitis B declined from 12.36 to 6.74 per 100 000, and for Hepatitis C from 8.45 to 6.67 per 100 000 between 1990 and 2019. The net drifts in mortality were −2.41% (95% confidence interval (CI) −2.47 to −2.34) for Hepatitis B and −1.16% (95% CI, −1.23 to –1.09) for Hepatitis C, with negative local drifts in most age groups. Mortality from Hepatitis B increased with age until 50+ years, while mortality from Hepatitis C rose steadily with age. The period effect for Hepatitis B was profound, suggesting effective national efforts in controlling the disease and the need for similar programs for Hepatitis B and C. Mortality varied across the world and had moderate to weak negative correlations with the SDI, which substantially decreases in the high‐middle and middle SDI regions, but has persistently high rates in the low SDI region. Global efforts to manage Hepatitis B and C have shown positive trends, but variations in trends were observed across regions with divergent age, cohort, and period effects. The national efforts of a comprehensive strategy are crucial to further strengthen the elimination of Hepatitis B and C.
Association between the environmental quality index and textbook outcomes among Medicare beneficiaries undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC)
Authors: Shaikh Chanza F. , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Munir Muhammad Musaab , Moazzam Zorays , Endo Yutaka , Alaimo Laura , Azap Lovette , Yang Jason , Katayama Erryk , Lima Henrique A. , Dawood Zaiba , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Quality of cancer care received by individuals may be influenced by environmental factors resulting in inequalities within the healthcare system. We sought to investigate the association between the Environmental Quality Index (EQI) and achievement of textbook outcomes (TOs) among Medicare beneficiaries who underwent surgical resection for colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

Patients diagnosed with CRC from 2004 to 2015 were identified using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare database and merged with the US Environmental Protection Agency's EQI data. A high EQI category indicated poor environmental quality, whereas a low EQI indicated better environmental conditions.

Results

Among 40 939 patients, 33 699 (82.3%) were diagnosed with colon cancer, 7240 (17.7%) were diagnosed with rectal cancer, and 652 (1.6%) were diagnosed with both cancers. Median age was 76 years old (interquartile range: 70–82 years) with roughly half of patients being female (n = 22 033, 53.8%). Most patients self‐reported as White (n = 32 404, 79.2%) and resided in the West region of the United States (n = 20 308, 49.6%). On multivariable analysis, patients residing in high EQI areas were less likely to achieve TO (referent: low EQI; odds ratio [OR]: 0.94, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.89–0.99; p = 0.02). Of note, Black patients living in moderate‐to‐high EQI counties had a 31% decreased likelihood of reaching a TO compared with White patients in low EQI counties (OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.55–0.87).

Conclusion

Patients residing in high EQI counties and Black race were associated with a lower likelihood of TO following resection of CRC among Medicare patients. Environmental factors may be important contributors to health care disparities and affect postoperative outcomes following CRC resection.
A nationwide propensity score analysis comparing ablation and resection for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Rasic Gordana , de Geus Susanna W. L. , Beaulieu‐Jones Brendin , Kasumova Gyulnara G. , Kent Tara S. , Ng Sing Chau , McAneny David , Tseng Jennifer F. , Sachs Teviah E.
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Studies have reported ambiguous results regarding the efficacy of ablation for early‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our study compared outcomes of ablation versus resection for HCC ≤50 mm to identify tumor sizes that would most benefit from ablation in terms of long‐term survival.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was queried for patients with stage I and II HCC ≤50 mm who underwent ablation or resection (2004−2018). Three cohorts were created based on tumor size: ≤20, 21−30, and 31−50 mm. A propensity score‐matched survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan−Meier method.

Results

In total, 36.47% (n = 4263) and 63.53% (n = 7425) of patients underwent resection and ablation, respectively. After matching, resection was associated with a significant survival benefit compared to ablation (3‐year survival: 78.13% vs. 67.64%; p < 0.0001) in patients with HCC of ≤20 mm. The impact of resection was even more striking among patients with HCC of 21−30 mm (3‐year survival: 77.88% vs. 60.53%; p < 0.0001) and 31−50 mm (3‐year survival: 67.21% vs. 48.55%; p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

While resection offers a survival benefit over ablation in the treatment of early‐stage HCC ≤50 mm, ablation may provide a feasible bridging strategy in patients awaiting transplantation.
An integrated approach of high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based chemical profiling, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to reveal the potential mechanisms of Qishen Gubiao granules for treating coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Yang Shu‐Yun , Lu Ming‐Xia , Zhang Yun‐Qian , Liao Jian‐Cheng , Zou Jian‐Dong , Li Wen‐Lei , Shi Wei , Fang Zhu‐Yuan , Li Chang‐Yin
Published: March 2023

Qishen Gubiao granules, a traditional Chinese medicine preparation composed of nine herbs, have been widely used to prevent and treat coronavirus disease 2019 with good clinical efficacy. In the present study, an integrated strategy based on chemical profiling followed by network pharmacology and molecular docking was employed, to explore the active components and potential molecular mechanisms of Qishen Gubiao granules in the therapy of coronavirus disease 2019. Using the ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry technique, a total of 186 ingredients corresponding to eight structure types in Qishen Gubiao preparation were identified or structurally annotated with the elucidation of the fragmentation pathways in the typical compounds. The network pharmacology analysis screened 28 key compounds including quercetin, apigenin, scutellarein, luteolin and naringenin acting on 31 key targets, which possibly modulated signal pathways associated with immune and inflammatory responses in the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019. The molecular docking results observed that the top 5 core compounds had a high affinity for angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 and 3‐chymotrypsin‐like protease. This study proposed a reliable and feasible approach for elucidating the multi‐components, multi‐targets, and multi‐pathways intervention mechanism of Qishen Gubiao granules against coronavirus disease 2019, providing a scientific basis for its further quality evaluation and clinical application.
Recent gully erosion intensity in an agricultural landscape underlain by fluvioglacial sediments (NE Czechia)
Authors: Tichavský Radek , Polášková Lucie , Galia Tomáš
Published: March 2023

Inappropriate agricultural management practices combined with intense rainfall often lead to gully erosion. Knowledge of the causes and consequences of past erosion pulses is essential not only for farmers to improve land management, but also for municipalities to define infrastructure threats associated with material transport. This study comprehensively evaluates accelerated gully erosion and estimates gully transport capacity in fluvioglacial sediments left by a Pleistocene ice sheet in northeastern Czechia. Geomorphic mapping of an area of approximately 2 km2 revealed gullies up to 3.5 m wide and deep, with their heads starting at the boundaries of fields and pastures. The ground‐penetrating radar survey confirmed the presence of soil pipes contributing to gully formation due to unmaintained field drainage combined with the natural occurrence of soil pipes. Microscopic analysis and dendrogeomorphic dating of 102 cross‐sections from 28 exposed tree roots revealed 18 years of gully incision since 1985, with increased activity from 2007 to 2014. The mean incision rates ranged between 1–20 cm/year, but could reach 1 m during individual events. More intensive incisions were typical for soils with higher smectite content. The last severe erosion event in 2014 caused clogging of culverts and damage to infrastructure by transporting boulders up to 34 cm in diameter at critical flow velocities of 2.4–2.8 ms−1. Considering the predominance of human‐induced factors (e.g., current soil compaction due to grazing and failure to maintain the drainage pipe outlets), ongoing gully erosion can be expected during intense rainfall events unless appropriate agricultural or stabilization measures are addressed.
Effects of carbon addition on Ti–Al–Si coatings synthesized by self‐generated gradient hot‐dipping infiltration method
Authors: Shi Dongming , Zhu Runkun , Xu Tongli , Kolawole Sharafadeen K. , Chen Junxiu , Liu Ya , Su Xuping
Published: March 2023

The effects of carbon addition on the microstructure and oxidation resistance of Ti–Al–Si coatings synthesized by the self‐generated gradient hot‐dipping infiltration method were studied. The microstructure, phase structure, as well as composition of the coating, were observed by using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and energy dispersive spectrometer. It was found that when carbon was added into the Al‐SiO2 system, the coating was composed of L‐(Al,Si) phase and Ti(Al,Si)3 phase. The thickness of the Ti(Al,Si)3 phase layer increased along with the dipping time. The cycle oxidation tests at 900°C for 160 h showed that the weight gains of the coating samples were only 8.1% of that of the Ti–6Al–4V alloy samples. This result indicates that the coatings remarkably enhanced the oxidation resistance of Ti–6Al–4V alloy, which could be ascribed to two reasons: (1) the mixed oxidation zone of Al2O3, Ti(Al,Si)3, and Ti5Si3 on top of the oxidized coating could act as a barrier to retard the diffusion of oxygen to the substrate; and (2) several new phase layers (Ti3Al, TiAl, and Ti5Si3 + TiAl2) near the substrate during oxidation could reduce the cracks at the bottom of the oxidized coating.
Therapeutic potential of salicylamide derivatives for combating viral infections
Authors: Xu Jimin , Xue Yu , Bolinger Andrew A. , Li Jun , Zhou Mingxiang , Chen Haiying , Li Hongmin , Zhou Jia
Published: March 2023

Since time immemorial human beings have constantly been fighting against viral infections. The ongoing and devastating coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic represents one of the most severe and most significant public health emergencies in human history, highlighting an urgent need to develop broad‐spectrum antiviral agents. Salicylamide (2‐hydroxybenzamide) derivatives, represented by niclosamide and nitazoxanide, inhibit the replication of a broad range of RNA and DNA viruses such as flavivirus, influenza A virus, and coronavirus. Moreover, nitazoxanide was effective in clinical trials against different viral infections including diarrhea caused by rotavirus and norovirus, uncomplicated influenza A and B, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. In this review, we summarize the broad antiviral activities of salicylamide derivatives, the clinical progress, and the potential targets or mechanisms against different viral infections and highlight their therapeutic potential in combating the circulating and emerging viral infections in the future.
COVID‐19 is associated with increased care needs and a decreased likelihood of returning home following a hip fracture: The IMPACT frailty study
Authors: Hall Andrew J. , Clement Nick D. , Kay Robert S. , Penfold Rose S. , MacLullich Alasdair M. J. , White Timothy O. , Duckworth Andrew D.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The primary aim was to evaluate the impact of COVID‐19 on frailty in patients surviving a hip fracture. Secondary aims were to assess impact of COVID‐19 on (i) length of stay (LoS) and post‐discharge care needs, (ii) readmissions, and (iii) likelihood of returning to own home.

Methods

This propensity score‐matched case‐control study was conducted in a single centre between 01/03/20–30/11/21. A ‘COVID‐positive’ group of 68 patients was matched to 141 ‘COVID‐negative’ patients. ‘Index’ and ‘current’ Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) scores were assigned for frailty at admission and at follow‐up. Data were extracted from validated records and included: demographics, injury factors, COVID‐19 status, delirium status, discharge destination, and readmissions. For subgroup analysis controlling for vaccination availability, the periods 1 March 2020–30 November 2020 and 1 February 2021–30 November 2021 were considered pre‐/post‐vaccine periods.

Results

Median age was 83.0 years, 155/209 (74.2%) were female and median follow‐up was 479 days (interquartile range [IQR] 311). There was an equivalent median increase in CFS in both groups (+1.00 [IQR 1.00–2.00, p = 0.472]). However, adjusted analysis demonstrated COVID‐19 was independently associated with a greater magnitude change (Beta coefficient [β] 0.27, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.00–0.54, p = 0.05). COVID‐19 in the post‐vaccine availability period was associated with a smaller increase versus pre‐vaccine (β −0.64, 95% CI −1.20 to −0.09, p = 0.023). COVID‐19 was independently associated with increased acute LoS (β 4.40, 95% CI 0.22–8.58, p = 0.039), total LoS (β 32.87, 95% CI 21.42–44.33, p < 0.001), readmissions (β 0.71, 95% CI 0.04–1.38, p = 0.039), and a four‐fold increased likelihood of pre‐fracture home‐dwelling patients failing to return home (odds ratio 4.52, 95% CI 2.08–10.34, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Hip fracture patients that survived a COVID‐19 infection had increased frailty, longer LoS, more readmissions, and higher care needs. The health and social care burden is likely to be higher than prior to the COVID‐19 pandemic. These findings should inform prognostication, discharge‐planning, and service design to meet the needs of these patients.
Predictors factors of atlanto‐axial subluxation in Tunisian patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Bettaieb Hiba , Ferjani Hanene Lassoued , Ben Nessib Dorra , Kaffel Dhia , Maatallah Kaouther , Hamdi Wafa
Published: March 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to describe clinical and imaging features of atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) and the associated risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective and comparative study including 51 RA patients with AAS and 51 RA patients without AAS. Atlantoaxial subluxation was defined by the presence of an anterior C1C2 diastasis on the cervical spine radiograph in hyperflexion and/or an anterior, posterior, lateral or rotatory C1C2 dislocation on MRI with/without inflammatory signal.

Results

In G1, clinical presentations revealing AAS were mainly neck pain (68.7%) and neck stiffness (29.8%). MRI revealed: diastasis C1C2 (92.5%), periodontoid pannus (92.5%), odontoid erosion (23.5%), vertical subluxation (9.8%) and spinal cord involvement (7.8%). A collar immobilisation and corticosteroid boluses were indicated in 86.3% and 47.1% of cases. C1‐C2arthrodesis was performed in 15.4% of cases. Atlantoaxial subluxation was significantly associated with: age at disease onset (p = 0.009), history of joint surgery (p = 0.012), disease duration (p = 0.001), rheumatoid factor (p = 0.01), anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (p = 0.02), erosive radiographic status (p < 0.005), coxitis (p < 0.001), osteoporosis (p = 0.012), extra‐articular manifestations (p < 0.001), and high disease activity (p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified RA duration (p < 0.001, OR = 1.022 CI[1.01–1.034]) and erosive radiographic status (p = 0.01, OR = 21.236 CI[2.05–219.44]) as predictive factors of AAS.

Conclusion

Our study showed that longer disease duration and joint destruction are the major predictive factors of AAS. Early treatment initiation, tight‐control and regular monitoring of cervical spine involvement are required in these patients.
Subclinical motor involvement in nonsystemic vasculitic neuropathy determined by the motor unit number estimation method MScanFit
Authors: Schneider Christian , Wassermann Meike K. , Svačina Martin K. R. , Wunderlich Gilbert , Fink Gereon R. , Lehmann Helmar C.
Published: March 2023

Introduction/Aims

Nonsystemic vasculitic neuropathy (NSVN) is characterized by a predominant lower limb involvement in many patients. Motor unit changes in upper extremity muscles have not been investigated in this subgroup but may be of interest for improving our understanding of the multifocal nature of the disease and counseling of patients about potential future symptoms. In this study we aimed to better understand subclinical motor involvement in the upper extremity muscles of patients with lower limb–predominant NSVN using the new motor unit number estimation (MUNE) method MScanFit.

Methods

In this single‐center, cross‐sectional study, 14 patients with biopsy‐proven NSVN, with no clinical signs of upper extremity motor involvement, were investigated and compared with 14 age‐matched healthy controls. All participants were assessed clinically and by the MUNE method MScanFit to the abductor pollicis brevis muscle.

Results

The number of motor units and peak CMAP amplitudes were significantly reduced in patients with NSVN (P = .003 and P = .004, respectively). Absolute median motor unit amplitudes and CMAP discontinuities were not significantly different (P = .246 and P = .1, respectively). CMAP discontinuities were not significantly correlated with motor unit loss (P = .15, rho = 0.4). The number of motor units did not correlate with clinical scores (P = .77, rho = 0.082).

Discussion

Both MUNE and CMAP amplitudes showed motor involvement in upper extremity muscles in lower limb–predominant NSVN. Overall, there was no evidence of significant reinnervation. Investigations of the abductor pollicis brevis muscle did not show a correlation with overall functional disability of the patients.
Sleep disturbance after cessation of cannabis administration in mice
Authors: Asano Takashi , Takemoto Hiroki , Horita Tomoya , Tokutake Tomohiro , Izuo Naotaka , Mochizuki Takatoshi , Nitta Atsumi
Published: March 2023

Cannabis withdrawal syndrome (CWS) in humans is characterized by various somatic symptoms, including sleep disturbances. In the present study, we investigated sleep alterations in mice after the cessation of arachidonylcyclopropylamide (ACPA), a cannabinoid type 1 receptor agonist, administration. ACPA‐administered mice (ACPA mice) displayed an increased number of rearings after the cessation of ACPA administration compared to saline‐administered mice (Saline mice). Moreover, the number of rubbings was also decreased in ACPA mice compared with those of the control mice. Electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) were measured for 3 days after the cessation of ACPA administration. During ACPA administration, there was no difference in the relative amounts of total sleep and wake time between ACPA and Saline mice. However, ACPA‐induced withdrawal decreased total sleep time during the light period in ACPA mice after ACPA cessation. These results suggest that ACPA cessation induces sleep disturbances in the mouse model of CWS.
Assessment and improvement of sex estimation standards for application in Holocene San and Khoekhoe populations
Authors: Malek Sadiyah , Sealy Judith C. , Gibbon Victoria E.
Published: March 2023

Accurate population‐specific sex estimation standards do not exist for southern African Holocene San and Khoekhoe populations. Due to markedly small stature, skeletal gracility, and physically active lifestyle, this population exhibits reduced sexual dimorphism, complicating application of standards developed elsewhere. The effectiveness of common sex estimation approaches were assessed and optimized for San and Khoekhoe populations. One‐hundred seventy‐five adult archaeological San and Khoekhoe skeletons were studied. Sex estimates from seven morphological traits (cranial and mandibular) and six metrical parameters (mandibular, humeral, and femoral) were compared with pelvic (Phenice) sex estimates to assess agreement. Results were analyzed using chi‐squared tests, univariate statistics, and cross‐validated discriminant function analysis. The effectiveness of individual cranial and mandibular traits varied: The mastoid process and mandibular shape produced the highest agreement rates with pelvic sex estimates (73% and 72%, respectively), while mental eminence and nuchal crest produced the lowest (both 53%). The nuchal crest exhibited a strong sex bias. All mandibular and long‐bone metrical parameters were sexually dimorphic; femoral and humeral vertical head diameter (FHD and HVHD) were the most discriminatory. The discriminant function equations showing the highest agreement with pelvic sex estimates were direct multivariate bicondylar breadth, FHD and HVHD (77%), univariate FHD (75%), and stepwise multivariate FHD and HVHD (73%). All variables were sexually dimorphic, but the reduced sexual dimorphism in this population necessitates careful choice of traits. Trait scores considered diagnostic of males and females may require adjustment to improve discriminating power. This study identified the most accurate areas to target for sex estimation and generated the first discriminant functions specific to archaeological San and Khoekhoe people.
An institutional framework for the socio‐economic reintegration of return migrants: A Kerala experience
Authors: Parambengal Azad , Kalam Sujathan Pandamangalam
Published: March 2023

This paper discusses the socio‐economic conditions of the return emigrants to Kerala, the highest migration intensity state of India. On close perusal, it is learnt that although concrete steps are being taken by the State for the reabsorption of returnees in the labour market with the help of NORKA, an exclusive department to cater to the demands of return migrants, the State has miles to go in view of the remittances it receives and exodus of migrants on return with their accumulated capital and exceptional work experience for a permanent settlement in their home land.
Laser assisted rapid 3D printing of continuous carbon fiber reinforced plastics: Simulation, characterization, and properties
Authors: Yiwen Tu , Yuegang Tan , Fan Zhang , Jun Zhang
Published: March 2023

3D printing of continuous fiber reinforce plastics (CCFRP) with fused deposition modeling is a burgeoning manufacturing method because of its exceptional mechanical properties. Nevertheless, it cannot manufacture parts at high speeds. Using laser heating instead of the traditional resistive heating in 3D printing of CCFRP has the potential to improve printing speed owing to its high heating efficiency. In this article, a process of laser‐assisted rapid 3D printing of CCFRP is proposed. The heating process of CCFRP by laser is analyzed and verified. The linear relation between printing speed and laser power is established. The experiments demonstrate that the printing speed is increased to 30 mm/s with the laser. The mechanical properties of printed parts, though enhanced as the printing speed and laser power increase, are better than those obtained by traditional methods. Scanning electron microscope images and experiments reveal that proper laser power is conducive to the melting of plastics, strengthening interlayer bonding, and reducing voids under roller pressure. Nonetheless, excessive laser power ablates the plastic, resulting in increased voids.
Energy absorption and collapse behavior of PP‐based pin‐reinforced composite sandwich panels under quasi‐static flatwise compression loading
Authors: Pedram Ehsan , Ahmadi Hamed , Kabiri Ali , Choobar Mehran Ghalami , Razmkhah Omid , Fellows Neil , Liaghat Gholamhossein
Published: March 2023

This article investigates the energy absorption and failure behavior of thermoplastic composite sandwich panels made entirely of polypropylene (PP) and pin‐reinforced core under quasi‐static compressive loading. The pins are manufactured by thermoforming and assembled with face sheets. The specimens were subjected to flatwise compressive loading to examine energy absorption capabilities. Moreover, the finite element method (FEM) is used to analyze core sandwich panels reinforced with cubic, cylindrical, beam, and cross‐beam pins. Furthermore, a closed‐form analytical model is adopted and developed to predict the critical load of these structures. The performed experiments were utilized to validate the damage mechanisms and critical displacements of the simulations and the analytically calculated maximum collapse loads. The results demonstrate that the predictions accurately capture both the critical failure load and failure mechanisms. Since the numerical results have a reasonable correlation with the experimental results and their output difference is <15%, FEM is used to investigate the collapse behavior of the pin‐reinforced foam‐filled panels. A comparison of the load–displacement, specific energy absorption (SEA), and maximum collapse loads of the samples shows that the cubic reinforced foam‐core sandwich panel has the maximum peak load and SEA. The FE model of pin‐reinforced foam‐filled panels reveals that the buckling of the reinforcements is postponed to a point beyond the critical one. Hence, PP foam can act as lateral support and delay the ultimate failure in panels, especially pin‐reinforced cylindrical sandwich panels, up to 40%.
Comparing different data processing methods for determining a Prony series from Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer frequency data
Authors: Adams J. W. , Merrett C. G.
Published: March 2023

This study focuses on using a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) for obtaining frequency domain data suitable for constructing an accurate Prony series for a viscoelastic material. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) specimens were used in each experiment, following the ASTM D4000 and ASTM D5023 standards. The experiments were completed using a frequency range of 1 to 100 Hz at multiple temperatures to capture the long‐term behavior via time–temperature superposition. Prony series were fit to the data from these experiments, and used to establish the time domain viscoelastic modulus of PMMA. The effect of the fitting function, material soak time, noise, and reference temperature selection were each investigated for their effect on the Prony series. The raw data may be processed via four paths, which are then compared for statistical error. The most accurate path resulted in a cumulative error of 2.1% for the storage modulus and 26% for the loss modulus. The impact of these errors on the tip displacement of a reference cantilever beam subject to axial loading for 15 years is a variation of over 25%.
A qualitative content analysis of novice consultants' responses to a consultee's request for assistance
Authors: Newman Daniel S. , McIntire Hannah , Barrett Courtenay A. , Gerrard Mary K. , Villarreal Julia N. , Kaiser Lauren T.
Published: March 2023

Applying qualitative content analysis methods, this study focuses on how school psychology graduate student consultants responded to a simulated request for assistance by a teacher. Seventy‐three total students participated in the study before they had engaged in their first course on school consultation. Additionally, transcripts were analyzed for subsets of students following a course on consultation (n = 23), or a course on consultation plus a supplemental communication skills focused training (n = 22). Before their consultation course, student consultants exhibited variable responses including some basic listening skills, but also offering premature problem hypotheses and solutions. They also restated child deficit focused language, often without asking for clarification, and asked questions not directly related to information provided by the consultee, which sometimes included more than one question at a time (double‐barreled). Following a typical consultation course, student consultants responded in nearly identical ways. Student consultants that completed a consultation course plus a supplemental training including deliberate practice of communication skills increased their application of basic listening skills, reduced leading questions, eliminated double‐barreled questions, and applied a pattern of paraphrasing followed by clarifying to understand concerns in more observable and measurable ways. Data are presented with qualitative examples, and implications are drawn regarding school consultation training.
Examining the role of cyberloafing, narcissism, locus of control, and social appearance anxiety on the Internet gaming disorder in university students
Authors: Yilmaz Ramazan , Karaoglan Yilmaz Fatma Gizem , Avci Ummuhan
Published: March 2023

Individual and multiple games played on the Internet are seen as a popular leisure activity, which is becoming increasingly common among young people. With the Covid 19 pandemic, the interest in Internet games has increased because young people spend more time at home. This has led to an increase in Internet gaming disorder, which is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization. When the literature is examined, attention is drawn to the importance of revealing the factors associated with Internet gaming disorder to combat Internet gaming disorder in young people. This research was carried out to reveal the Internet gaming disorder profiles of university students in Turkey and to determine the factors associated with it. In this direction, the structural relationships between cyberloafing, narcissism, locus of control, and social appearance anxiety variables, which are thought to be associated with Internet gaming disorder, were examined. The research data were obtained from 596 university students studying in various cities in Turkey. Research findings show that cyberloafing and locus of control directly affect Internet gaming disorder. Narcissism, on the other hand, has been shown to have a mediating effect on Internet gaming disorder through cyberloafing. It has been determined that Internet gaming disorder affects social appearance anxiety. Research results show that Internet gaming disorder can be reduced by improving internal locus of control and reducing cyberloafing behaviors and narcissism. The results of the research will provide tips to experts on interventions that can be made for students with Internet gaming disorder. In line with the findings obtained from the research, what can be done to combat Internet gaming disorder is discussed.
Teachers' personality types and their attitude toward receiving and employing postobservation feedback
Authors: Javahery Pourya , Kamali Jaber
Published: March 2023

Classroom observation has been long considered a powerful tool for evaluating and monitoring teachers' performance and progress. Teachers can benefit from the feedback during the postobservation conference but giving feedback is not a simple skill and needs knowledge and training. Research on tackling postobservation problems remains emerging and the aim of this study is to explore the role that a teacher's personality type–based on DiSC personality test‐ might play in postobservation conferences and reaction to receiving feedback from the supervisor. To gather data, 20 nonnative EFL teachers were asked to take the DiSC personality test to have their personality types identified, then they were observed three times, and each time they received feedback on their classroom management techniques. Results indicate that teachers with different personality types act differently during the postobservation conferences. While D and i styles are active and tend to employ feedback moderately and strongly in their classes, S and C styles are mostly passive with the tendency of employing feedback moderately and weakly. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the role of personality types in teachers' tolerance of criticism and their tendency to apply the received feedback in their future classes.
Predictors of access to healthcare services within 1 month after stroke in a developing country: A longitudinal prospective study
Authors: Silva Soraia Micaela , Dutra Tamires Mariana de Freitas Vieira , Braga Marcela Aline Fernandes , Silva Edvânia Andrade de Moura , de Faria‐Fortini Iza , Faria Christina Danielli Coelho de Morais
Published: March 2023

Background

Globally, people with disabilities face difficulties accessing care, resulting in worse health outcomes and higher healthcare costs. However, information regarding access to healthcare services for stroke survivors in developing countries is scarce.

Objective

To identify predictors of access to healthcare services within 1 month of hospital discharge in a developing country (Brazil).

Methods

For six months, individuals from a stroke unit, aged ≥20 years, after their first stroke and without previous disability, were included and evaluated at hospital discharge for socio‐demographic (sex, age, education, and socio‐economic level) and clinical‐functional (severity of stroke and level of disability) characteristics. The number and type of referrals to healthcare services provided by hospital staff were also recorded. One month after hospital discharge, data regarding access to healthcare services obtained by the subjects were collected. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the number of referrals and access to healthcare services obtained by the subjects. To identify the predictors of access, a binary logistic regression was used (α = 5%).

Results

A total of 78 individuals were evaluated one month after hospital discharge, all with at least one referral. The total access to healthcare services within 1 month of stroke was significantly lower than the total number of referrals (p < 0.001). Sex (odds ratios (OR) = 18.92; p = 0.01) and educational level (OR = 1.48; p = 0.04) were significant predictors of access.

Conclusions

Being female and having low education levels were predictors of access to healthcare services within 1 month of stroke in a developing country. In addition, the access was below expectations, compromising the integrality of care and national and international recommendations, which is a concern given the need for early care to obtain better results in health and functional outcomes.