bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Tests for Diagnosis of Animal Tuberculosis: Moving Away from the Golden Calf (and towards Bayesian Models)
Authors: Gomez-Buendia Alberto , Pozo Pilar , Picasso-Risso Catalina , Branscum Adam , Perez Andres , Alvarez Julio
Published: February 2023

The last decades have seen major efforts to develop new and improved tools to maximize our ability to detect tuberculosis-infected animals and advance towards the objective of disease control and ultimately eradication. Nevertheless, there is still uncertainty regarding test performance due to the wide range of specificity and especially sensitivity estimates published in the scientific literature. Here, we performed a systematic review of the literature on studies that evaluated the performance of tuberculosis diagnostic tests used in animals through Bayesian Latent Class Models (BLCMs), which do not require the application of a (fallible) reference procedure to classify animals as infected with tuberculosis or not. BLCM-based sensitivity and specificity estimates deviated from those obtained using a reference procedure for certain antemortem tests: an overall lower sensitivity of skin tests and serology and a higher sensitivity of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) assays was reported. In the case of postmortem diagnostic tests, sensitivity estimates from BLCMs were similar to estimates from studies based on other methodologies. For specificity, the range of BLCM-based estimates was narrower than those based on a reference test, reaching values close to 100% (but lower in the case of IFN-γ assays). In conclusion, Bayesian methods have been increasingly applied for the evaluation of tuberculosis diagnostic tests in animals, yielding results that differ (sometimes substantially) from previously reported test performance in the literature, particularly for in vivo tests and sensitivity estimates. Newly developed models that allow adjustment for relevant factors (e.g., age, breed, region, and herd size) can contribute to the generation of more unbiased estimates of test performance. Nevertheless, although BLCMs for tuberculosis do not require the use of an imperfect reference procedure and are therefore not influenced by its limited performance, they require careful implementation, and transparent systematic reporting should be the norm.
Fluid Flow Behavior Prediction in Naturally Fractured Reservoirs Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Shawkat Mustafa Mudhafar , Risal Abdul Rahim Bin , Mahdi Noor J. , Safari Ziauddin , Naser Maryam H. , Al Zand Ahmed W.
Published: February 2023

The naturally fractured reservoirs are one of the most challenging due to the tectonic movements that are caused to increase the permeability and conductivity of the fractures. The instability of the permeability and conductivity effects on the fluid flow path causes problems during the transfer of the fluids from the matrix to the fractures and fluid losses during production. In addition, these complications made it difficult for engineers to estimate fluid flow during production. The fracture properties’ study is important to model the fluid flow paths such as the fracture porosity, permeability, and the shape factor, which are considered essential in the stability of fluid flow. To examine this, this research introduced new models including decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), K-nearest regression (KNR), ridge regression (RR), and LASSO regression model,. The research studied the fracture properties in naturally fractured reservoirs like the fracture porosity (FP) and the shape factor (SF). The datasets used in this study were collected from previous studies “i.e., Texas oil and gas fields” to build an intelligence-based predictive model for fluid flow characteristics. The prediction process was conducted based on interporosity flow coefficient, storativity ratio, wellbore radius, matrix permeability, and fracture permeability as input data. This study revealed a positive finding for the adopted machine learning (ML) models and was superior in using statistical accuracy metrics. Overall, the research emphasized the implementation of computer-aided models for naturally fractured reservoir analysis, giving more details on the extensive execution techniques, such as injection or the creation of artificial cracks, to minimize hydrocarbon losses or leakage.
Potential Zoonotic Transmission of Giardia duodenalis between Children and Calves in Bangladesh
Authors: Li Junqiang , Karim Md Robiul , Siddiki S. H. M. Faruk , Chen Yuancai , Qin Ziyang , Rume Farzana Islam , Zhang Longxian
Published: February 2023

Giardia duodenalis is a zoonotic protozoan parasite that causes gastrointestinal illness in humans and livestock. We studied the genetic diversity of G. duodenalis in children and calves from Bangladesh to determine its zoonotic potential. Fecal samples collected from children (299) and calves (699) were screened with nested PCR with primers targeting the ssu rRNA gene for G. duodenalis. Positive samples were further multilocus genotyped using the β-giardin (bg), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh), and triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) genes. The overall infection rate of G. duodenalis was 21.1% (63/299) in children and 5.7% (40/699) in calves. There were no significant differences in infection with G. duodenalis among age groups, sex, and study areas in children and calves. Multilocus genotyping (MLG) of human G. duodenalis identified zoonotic assemblages A (34.0%, 18/53) and B (50.9%, 27/53) and a so-called ruminant-specific assemblage E (11.3%, 6/53), as well as two mixed assemblages, B/D (1/53) and B/E (1/53). Assemblage E predominated in calves (82.3%, 28/34), followed by assemblages A (11.8%, 4/34) and B (5.9%, 2/34). Overall, zoonotic assemblages A, B, and E were found in 6.0% (18/299), 9.0% (27/299), and 2.0% (6/299) of the children’s stool samples, respectively, and 0.6% (4/699), 0.3% (2/699), and 4.0% (28/699) of the calf fecal samples, respectively. Although there was a difference in the distribution of subassemblages in humans (mostly AII) and calves (mostly AI), the zoonotic assemblages A, B, and E present in both children and calves suggest the potential for zoonotic transmission of G. duodenalis. This molecular study highlights the fact that G. duodenalis infections were common in the study areas, with potential zoonotic transmission between children and calves, implying that cattle might play a role in G. duodenalis zoonotic transmission.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns for Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Armin Shahnaz , Fallah Fatemeh , Karimi Abdollah , Karbasiyan Fereshteh , Alebouyeh Masoud , Rafiei Tabatabaei Sedigheh , Rajabnejad Maryam , Mansour Ghanaie Roxana , Fahimzad Seyed Alireza , Abdollahi Nafiseh , Khodaei Hannan , Azimi Leila
Published: February 2023

Carbapenem is a broad-spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic considered the last choice for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Thus, the increasing rate of carbapenem resistance (CR) in Enterobacteriaceae is an urgent public health threat. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) to new and old antibiotics. In this study, Klebsiella pneumoniae, E. coli, and Enterobacter spp. were collected from 10 hospitals in Iran for one year. CRE is recognized by resistance to meropenem and/or imipenem disk after identification of the collected bacteria. Antibiotic susceptibility of CRE against fosfomycin, rifampin, metronidazole, tigecycline, and aztreonam was detected by disk diffusion method and colistin by MIC. In this study, 1222 E. coli, 696 K. pneumoniae, and 621 Enterobacter spp. were collected from 10 hospitals in Iran in one year. Fifty-four E. coli (4.4%), 84 K. pneumoniae (12%), and 51 Enterobacter spp. (8.2%) were CRE. All CRE strains were resistant to metronidazole and rifampicin. Tigecycline has the highest sensitivity on CRE and levofloxacin for Enterobacter spp. Tigecycline showed an acceptable effectiveness rate of sensitivity on the CRE strain. Therefore, we suggest that clinicians consider this valuable antibiotic to treat CRE.
Effectiveness of Serpentine Concrete as Shielding Material for Neutron Source Facility Using Monte Carlo Code
Authors: Abrefah R. G. , Tuffour-Achampong K. , Amoah P.
Published: February 2023

In recent years, much attention has been dedicated to finding techniques to reduce exposure doses. This work examines the effectiveness of using serpentine concrete to shield a neutron source using a 241Am-Be neutron source facility at the National Nuclear Research Institute (NNRI) as a case study. The results obtained for both neutrons and gamma indicate that serpentine concrete provides better shielding as compared to ordinary concrete. At a distance of 100 cm from the Am-Be source, when shielded with serpentine concrete, it was found that personnel will receive an average gamma dose of 4.395.395 ± 0.122 μSv/h while a dose of 10.399 ± 0.083 μSv/h will be received for ordinary concrete shield. The average neutron dose equivalent at 100 cm, for ordinary concrete and serpentine concrete were 32.189 ± 0.277 and 9.276 ± 0.505, respectively. All dose equivalents obtained were also within internationally accepted limits.
15‐Year Retrospective Study on the Success Rate of Maxillary Sinus Augmentation and Implants: Influence of Bone Substitute Type, Presurgical Bone Height, and Membrane Perforation during Sinus Lift
Authors: Jamcoski Vanessa Helena , Faot Fernanda , Marcello-Machado Raissa Micaella , Melo Ana Claudia Moreira , Fontão Flávia Noemy Gasparini Kiatake
Published: February 2023

Objectives. To evaluate the success rate of bone grafts and implants carried out at the Latin American Institute for Research and Dental Education (ILAPEO), considering the following: (i) the different pure bone substitutes (autogenous, xenogeneic, and alloplastic), (ii) the presurgical bone height, and (iii) how the treatment is compromised when membrane perforation occurs during sinus lift in maxillary sinus surgeries. Material and Methods. The initial sample comprised 1040 records of maxillary sinus lifting surgeries. After evaluation, the final sample retained 472 grafts performed using the lateral window technique with a total of 757 implants. The grafts were divided into 3 groups: (i) autogenous bone (n = 197), (ii) xenogenous bovine bone (n = 182), and (iii) alloplastic material (n = 93). One calibrated examiner classified the sample into two groups based on the residual bone height (<4 mm and ≥4 mm) of the area of interest measured on parasagittal sections of tomographic images. Data on membrane perforation occurrences in each group were collected; qualitative variables were described using frequency, expressed as percentages. The Chi‐square test was used to analyze the success of the graft types and the survival rate of the implants as a function of the grafted material and the residual bone height. The Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis was used to calculate the survival rate of bone grafts and implants according to the classifications adopted in this retrospective study. Results. The success rate of grafts and implants was 98.3% and 97.2%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the success rate among the different bone substitutes (p = 0.140). Only 8 grafts (1.7%) and 21 implants (2.8%) failed. There was a greater success rate for both grafts (96.5%) and implants (97.4%) when the bone height was ≥4 mm. The success rate in the 49 sinuses in which the membrane was perforated was 97.96% for the grafts and 96.2% for the implants. The follow‐up periods after rehabilitation ranged from 3 months to 13 years. Conclusions. Within the limitations of the data analyzed in this retrospective study, maxillary sinus lift was a viable surgical technique that enabled implant placement with a predictable long‐term success rate, regardless of the type of material used. The presence of membrane perforation did not interfere with the success rate obtained for grafts and implants.
Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients Who Had Developed Brain Metastasis in the Treatment Process
Authors: Dogan Izzet , Kizildag Inci , Özkurt Selnur , Ibis Kamuran , Vatansever Sezai , Saip Pinar , Aydiner Adnan
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer are at risk for developing brain metastases. Different anti-HER2 treatments can be used in the management of the disease. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prognosis and the factors affecting the prognosis in brain metastatic patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. Methods: Clinical and pathological features of HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer patients and magnetic resonance imaging features at the onset of brain metastasis were recorded. Survival analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods. Results: Analyses of the study were performed by including 83 patients. The median age was 49 (25–76). All patients had HER2 receptor-positive tumors. Thirty-five (42.2%) patients had a hormone-positive disease. Thirty-two (38.6%) patients had de novo metastatic disease. Brain metastasis sites were found to be bilateral – 49.4%, right brain – 21.7%, left brain – 12%, and unknown – 16.9%, respectively. The median brain metastasis largest size was 16 mm (range 5–63). The median follow-up time from the post-metastasis period was 36 months. Median overall survival (OS) was found as 34.9 months (95% CI, 24.6–45.2). In multivariate analysis for factors affecting OS, estrogen receptor status (p = 0.025), number of chemotherapy agents used with trastuzumab (p = 0.010), number of HER2-based therapy (p = 0.010), and the largest size of brain metastasis (p = 0.012) were found to be statistically significant. Conclusions: In this study, we demonstrated the prognosis in brain metastatic patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. When the factors affecting the prognosis were evaluated, we determined that the largest size of brain metastasis, estrogen receptor positivity, and the use of TDM-1 and lapatinib plus capecitabine consecutively during the treatment process affected the prognosis of the disease.
Comparison of the Soluble fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 1/Placental Growth Factor Ratio Alone versus a Multi-Marker Regression Model for the Prediction of Preeclampsia-Related Adverse Outcomes after 34 Weeks of Gestation
Authors: Sroka Dorota , Lorenz-Meyer Lisa-Antonia , Scherfeld Valerie , Thoma Julie , Busjahn Andreas , Henrich Wolfgang , Verlohren Stefan
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The objective of this retrospective study was to compare the predictive performance of the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1)/placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio alone or in a multi-marker regression model for preeclampsia-related maternal and/or fetal adverse outcomes in women >34 weeks of gestation. Methods: We analyzed the data collected from 655 women with suspected preeclampsia. Adverse outcomes were predicted by multivariable and univariable logistic regression models. The outcome of patients was evaluated within 14 days after presentation with signs and symptoms of preeclampsia or diagnosed preeclampsia. Results: The full model integrating available, standard clinical information and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio had the best predictive performance for adverse outcomes with an AUC of 72.6%, which corresponds to a sensitivity of 73.3% and specificity of 66.0%. The positive predictive value of the full model was 51.4%, and the negative predictive value was 83.5%. 24.5% of patients, who did not experience adverse outcomes but were classified as high risk by sFlt-1/PlGF ratio (≥38), were correctly classified by the regression model. The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio alone had a significantly lower AUC of 65.6%. Conclusions: Integrating angiogenic biomarkers in a regression model improved the prediction of preeclampsia-related adverse outcomes in women at risk after 34 weeks of gestation.
Familial Associations of Complete Atrioventricular Block: A National Family Study in Sweden
Authors: Fedorowski Artur , Rosengren Per , Pirouzifard Mirnabi , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina , Sutton Richard , Zöller Bengt
Published: February 2023

Background:

Complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) is a major reason for implantation of permanent pacemakers, but knowledge of CAVB inheritance is sparse. This nationwide study aimed to determine the occurrence of CAVB in first-, second-, and third-degree relatives (full siblings, half-siblings, and cousins).

Methods:

The Swedish multigeneration register was linked to the Swedish nationwide patient register for the period 1997 to 2012. All Swedish full sibling, half-sibling, and cousin pairs born to Swedish parents between 1932 and 2012 were included. Competing risks and time-to-event, subdistributional hazard ratios (SHRs) according to Fine and Gray and hazard ratios using Cox proportional hazards model were estimated using robust SEs and considering the relatedness of relatives (full siblings, half-siblings, cousins). Additionally, odds ratios (ORs) for CAVB were calculated for traditional cardiovascular comorbidities.

Results:

The study population (N=6 113 761) consisted of 5 382  928 full siblings, 1 266  391 half-siblings, and 3 750 913 cousins. In total, 6442 (0.11%) unique individuals were diagnosed with CAVB. Of these, 4200 (65.2%) were males. SHRs for CAVB were 2.91 for full siblings (95% CI, 2.43–3.49), 1.51 for half-siblings (0.56–4.10), and 3.54 for cousins (1.73–7.26) of affected individuals. Age-stratified analysis showed higher risk in young individuals born from 1947 to 1986: SHR, 5.30 (3.78–7.43) for full siblings, SHR, 3.30 (1.06–10.31) for half-siblings, and SHR, 3.15 (1.39–7.17) for cousins. Similar familial HRs according to Cox proportional hazard model and ORs were obtained without any major differences. Apart from familial relationship, CAVB was associated with hypertension (OR, 1.83), diabetes (OR, 1.41), coronary heart disease (OR, 2.08), heart failure (OR, 5.01), and structural heart disease (OR, 4.59).

Conclusions:

Risk of CAVB among relatives of affected individuals depends on relationship degree, being strongest in young siblings. The familial association extending to third-degree relatives indicates presence of genetic components in the cause of CAVB.
Computed Tomography Radiomics Model Predicts Procedure Success of Coronary Chronic Total Occlusions
Authors: Ling Runjianya , Chen Xiuyu , Yu Yarong , Yu Lihua , Yang Wenyi , Xu Zhihan , Li Yuehua , Zhang Jiayin
Published: February 2023

Background:

Coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography imaging is useful for the preprocedural evaluation of chronic total occlusion (CTO). However, the predictive value of CT radiomics model for successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not been studied. We aimed to develop and validate a CT radiomics model for predicting PCI success of CTOs.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, a radiomics-based model for predicting PCI success was developed on the training and internal validation sets of 202 and 98 patients with CTO, collected from 1 tertiary hospital. The proposed model was validated on an external test set of 75 CTO patients enrolled from another tertiary hospital. CT radiomics features of each CTO lesion were manually labeled and extracted. Other anatomical parameters, including occlusion length, entry morphology, tortuosity, and calcification burden, were also measured. Fifteen radiomics features, 2 quantitative plaque features, and CT-derived Multicenter CTO Registry of Japan score were used to train different models. The predictive values of each model were evaluated for predicting revascularization success.

Results:

In the external test set, 75 patients (60 men; 65 years [58.5, 71.5]) with 83 CTO lesions were assessed. Occlusion length was shorter (13.00 mm versus 29.30 mm,
P
=0.007) in PCI success group whereas the presence of tortuous course was more commonly presented in PCI failure group (1.49% versus 25.00%,
P
=0.004). The radiomics score was significantly smaller in PCI success group (0.10 versus 0.55,
P
<0.001). The area under the curve of CT radiomics-based model was significantly higher than that of CT-derived Multicenter CTO Registry of Japan score for predicting PCI success (area under the curve=0.920 versus 0.752,
P
=0.008). The proposed radiomics model accurately identified 89.16% (74/83) CTO lesions with procedure success.

Conclusions:

CT radiomics-based model outperformed CT-derived Multicenter CTO Registry of Japan score for predicting PCI success. The proposed model is more accurate than the conventional anatomical parameters to identify CTO lesions with PCI success.
Cardiovascular Benefits of Icosapent Ethyl in Patients With and Without Atrial Fibrillation in REDUCE‐IT
Authors: Olshansky Brian , Bhatt Deepak L. , Miller Michael , Steg Ph. Gabriel , Brinton Eliot A. , Jacobson Terry A. , Ketchum Steven B. , Doyle Ralph T. , Juliano Rebecca A. , Jiao Lixia , Kowey Peter R. , Reiffel James A. , Tardif Jean‐Claude , Ballantyne Christie M. , Chung Mina K. ,   the REDUCE‐IT Investigators
Published: February 2023

Background

In REDUCE‐IT (Reduction of Cardiovascular Events With Icosapent Ethyl–Intervention Trial), icosapent ethyl (IPE) versus placebo) reduced cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary revascularization, or unstable angina requiring hospitalization, but was associated with increased atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter (AF) hospitalization (3.1% IPE versus 2.1% placebo;
P
=0.004).

Methods and Results

We performed post hoc efficacy and safety analyses of patients with or without prior AF (before randomization) and with or without in‐study time‐varying AF hospitalization to assess relationships of IPE (versus placebo) and outcomes. In‐study AF hospitalization event rates were higher in patients with prior AF (12.5% versus 6.3%, IPE versus placebo;
P
=0.007) versus without prior AF (2.2% versus 1.6%, IPE versus placebo;
P
=0.09). Serious bleeding rates trended higher in patients with (7.3% versus 6.0%, IPE versus placebo;
P
=0.59) versus without prior AF (2.3% versus 1.7%, IPE versus placebo;
P
=0.08). With IPE, serious bleeding trended higher regardless of prior AF (interaction
P
value [
P
int
]=0.61) or postrandomization AF hospitalization (
P
int
=0.66). Patients with prior AF (n=751, 9.2%) versus without prior AF (n=7428, 90.8%) had similar relative risk reductions of the primary composite and key secondary composite end points with IPE versus placebo (
P
int
=0.37 and
P
int
=0.55, respectively).

Conclusions

In REDUCE‐IT, in‐study AF hospitalization rates were higher in patients with prior AF especially in those randomized to IPE. Although serious bleeding trended higher in those randomized to IPE versus placebo over the course of the study, serious bleeding was not different regardless of prior AF or in‐study AF hospitalization. Patients with prior AF or in‐study AF hospitalization had consistent relative risk reductions across primary, key secondary, and stroke end points with IPE.

Registration

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01492361
; Unique Identifier: NCT01492361
Sex Differences in the Association Between Hypertension and Incident Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kanazawa Satoshi , Kaneko Hidehiro , Yano Yuichiro , Suzuki Yuta , Okada Akira , Matsuoka Satoshi , Fujiu Katsuhito , Michihata Nobuaki , Jo Taisuke , Takeda Norifumi , Morita Hiroyuki , Node Koichi , Yasunaga Hideo , Komuro Issei
Published: February 2023

Background

Limited evidence is available on sex differences about the association between hypertension and incident atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and Results

We used a nationwide health checkup and claims database to analyze 3 383 738 adults (median age, 43 (36–51) years, 57.4% men). We investigated the relationship between hypertension and incident AF in men and women using a Cox regression model. We used restricted cubic spline functions to identify the association of blood pressure (BP) as a continuous parameter with incident AF. We categorized the men and women into 4 groups according to the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association BP guidelines. During a mean follow‐up of 1199±950 days, 13 263 AF diagnoses were recorded. The incidence (95% CI) of AF was 15.8 (15.5–16.1) per 10 000 person‐years in men and 6.1 (5.9–6.3) per 10 000 person‐years in women. Compared with normal BP, elevated BP, stage 1 hypertension, and stage 2 hypertension were associated with an increased risk AF in both men and women. However, the hazard ratios were greater in women than in men, and the
P
value for interactions in the multivariable model was 0.0076. The models using restricted cubic spline showed that the risk of AF associated with elevated systolic BP increased steeply above an approximate threshold of systolic BP of 130 mm Hg in men and 100 mm Hg in women. Although our primary findings were consistent across subgroup analyses, this association was most significant in younger individuals.

Conclusions

Although the incidence of AF was higher in men, the association between hypertension and incident AF was more pronounced in women than in men, suggesting a potential sex difference in the relationship between hypertension and incident AF.
Liraglutide Accelerates Ischemia‐Induced Angiogenesis in a Murine Diabetic Model
Authors: Zhu Yu‐xin , Li Yi , Ma Yu , Zhang Xiao , Du Xingrong , Gao Jiali , Ding Nian Hui , Wang Liqun , Chen Ni , Luo Mao , Wu Jianbo , Li Rong
Published: February 2023

Background

Severe hindlimb ischemia is a chronic disease with poor prognosis that can lead to amputation or even death. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic effect of liraglutide on hind‐limb ischemia in type 2 diabetic mice and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Methods and Results

Blood flow reperfusion and capillary densities after treatment with liraglutide or vehicle were evaluated in a mouse model of lower‐limb ischemia in a normal background or a background of streptozotocin‐induced diabetes. The proliferation, migration, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells were analyzed in vitro upon treatment with liraglutide under normal‐glucose and high‐glucose conditions. Levels of phospho‐Akt, phospho‐endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and phospho‐extracellular signal‐related kinases 1 and 2 under different conditions in human umbilical vein endothelial cells and in ischemic muscle were determined by western blotting. Liraglutide significantly improved perfusion recovery and capillary density in both nondiabetic and diabetic mice. Liraglutide also promoted, in a concentration‐dependent manner, the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of normal glucose– and high glucose–treated human umbilical vein endothelial cells, as well as the phosphorylation of Akt, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and extracellular signal‐related kinases 1 and 2 both in vitro and in vivo. The liraglutide antagonist exendin (9–39) reversed the promoting effects of liraglutide on human umbilical vein endothelial cell functions. Furthermore, exendin (9–39), LY294002, and PD98059 blocked the liraglutide‐induced activation of Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase and extracellular signal‐related kinases 1 and 2 signaling pathways.

Conclusions

These studies identified a novel role of liraglutide in modulating ischemia‐induced angiogenesis, possibly through effects on endothelial cell function and activation of Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase and extracellular signal‐related kinases 1 and 2 signaling, and suggested the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor may be an important therapeutic target in diabetic hind‐limb ischemia.
Dimension-wise Sequential Update for Learning a Multidimensional Environment in Humans
Authors: Higashi Hiroshi
Published: February 2023

When confronted with multidimensional environment problems, humans may need to jointly update multiple state–action–outcome associations across various dimensions. Computational modeling of human behavior and neural activities suggests that such updates are implemented based upon Bayesian update principle. However, it is unclear whether humans perform these updates individually or sequentially. If the update occurs sequentially, the order in which the associations are updated matters and can influence the updated results. To address this question, we tested a few computational models with different update orders using both human behavior and EEG data. Our results indicated that a model undertaking dimension-wise sequential updates was the best fit to human behavior. In this model, ordering the dimensions was decided using entropy, which indexed the uncertainty of associations. Simultaneously collected EEG data revealed evoked potentials that were correlated to the proposed timing of this model. These findings provide new insights into the temporal processes underlying Bayesian update in multidimensional environments.
Effects of prior acclimation on the survival, feed intake and salinity preference of a freshwater-adapted euryhaline crab
Authors: Yu Fan , Huang Cheng , Wang Xu , Ge Jiachun , Li Zhongqiu
Published: February 2023

In estuarine systems, salinity changes by freshwater inflows and tides affect the survival and behaviour of euryhaline species. Juvenile Chinese mitten crabs, Eriocheir sinensis, are considered to live in fresh water during their complex life history, whilst some are found in coastal wetlands. To understand how juveniles disperse in estuarine residence, we investigated their survival, feed intake and salinity preference after acclimating in three different water situations (i.e., fresh water, salt water and alternation between fresh water and salt water). We supposed that behavioural alternation and salinity preference would play an essential role in their acclimation. Results showed no significant difference in survival and feed intake amongst the three groups of juveniles () in acclimation trials. However, the feed intake of crabs in each group was declining after changing water every three days. In the salinity preference experiment, crabs from fresh water preferred 0 and 12, whereas those from salinity and alternation treatments showed no preference. The salinity preference seemed to be modified by prior acclimation as well, and juvenile crabs could therefore survive and disperse in the different salinities. Our study helps to explain the complex distribution of juveniles in estuaries and provides arguments for the feasibility of Chinese mitten crabs being reared in low salinity waters.
Nudibranchia (Mollusca: Gastropoda) from San Matías Gulf, Northern Argentine Patagonia
Authors: CETRA NICOLÁS , ROCHE ANDREA
Published: February 2023

The San Matías gulf is a marine biodiversity hotspot located in the Argentinean Patagonia. Although there are several studies on gastropod mollusks from Argentina, nudibranchs remain less studied. In this faunistic assessment 15 species of nudibranchs were found in San Matías gulf, including two new family records for Argentina: Coryphellidae and Dotidae. Although Magellanic nudibranchs are clearly predominant in this area, warm water species such as Doto uva and Coryphella cf. verta are recorded and the known geographic range of five species is extended. In addition, Rostanga pulchra and Diaulula hispida extend their range to the north of the Argentine Patagonia.
First record of the genus Testudobracon Quicke, 1986 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Braconinae) in Vietnam, with description of four new species
Authors: MAI PHAM QUYNH , LONG KHUAT DANG , HIEP NGUYEN DUC , HOA DANG THI , DUONG TRAN DINH
Published: February 2023

Five species of the genus Testudobracon Quicke, 1986 in Vietnam were recognized, and four new species, viz. Testudobracon alius Long, sp. nov., Testudobracon descensus Long, sp. nov., Testudobracon imitator Long, sp. nov., and Testudobracon phiaoacus Long & PQMai, sp. nov. are described and fully illustrated. Additionally, the genus Testudobracon and one species, Testudobracon flavus Tang, Chen & He, 1997, are newly recorded for the Vietnam’s braconid fauna. A checklist of the already known of Testudobracon species is provided, a key to Vietnamese species of the genus Testudobracon in Vietnam, their in-country distribution, and differentiation of the known similar species are also given.
Will the Fluorine-Free Textiles Cover us from the Rain and Dirt in the Future?: A Review on Current Water Repellent and Stain Resistant Durable Water Repellents for Textiles
Authors: Meng Haotian , Zhou Yuhui , Liu Shuhe
Published: February 2023

Industries have been utilizing amphiphobicity of durable water repellents (DWRs) to make textiles for decades for both water repellency and stain resistance. However, polymeric per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were used the most often until today since fluorinated chemicals
own super low surface energies and amphiphobic fluorinated moieties. As environmental issues and health concerns have been raised, researchers started investigating environmentally friendly non-fluorinated DWRs. This review paper aims to explore typical works mainly consisting of long-chain
PFASs based, short-chain PFASs based, silicones-based, and hydrocarbonsbased DWRs, to exhibit the principles behind their amphiphobicity, and to compare and discuss their water repellency, oil repellency, and durability. In general, neither silicones nor hydrocarbons possess satisfying stain
resistance and durability as fluorinated materials, even if the hydrophobicity can reach a similarly high value. In this work, the major purpose is to point out the advantages and corresponding limitations of different types of DWRs for industries and suggest potential improvements that other
researchers can make in the future.
Simulation of Efficient Lead Sulfide Colloidal Quantum Dot Solar Cell using Spiro-OMeTAD as Hole Transport Layer
Authors: Umar Ahmad , Yadav Vaishali , Srivastava Vaibhava , Sadanand  , Lohia Pooja , Dwivedi D. K. , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Alhamami Mohsen A. M. , Qasem Hussam , Akbar Sheikh
Published: February 2023

In recent years, the advancement of solar cell technology is increased by leaps and bounds and it is also used to achieve a solution for the worldwide huge need for generation of energy and electricity. The colloidal quantum dot (CQD) offers a size-tuned bandgap and materials processing
compatibility with a range of substrates. QDSC (Quantum dot solar cell) have advantages such as low cost, high efficiency, and replaces bulky material (Cadmium Selenide, Lead Selenide etc over traditional solar cell. “Despite these advantages, it lags due to carrier recombination in
the Quasi-Neutral Region (QNR). The performance of the solar cell greatly depends on the electron transport layer (ETL) and hole transport layer (HTL). To investigate the feasibility of a highperformance device, a comparative investigation of the PbS-EDT and Spiro-OMeTAD hole transport layers
has been done. For this, we have varied the various parameters upon which performance of solar cells is dependent in order to maximise the performance. All simulations study has been performed using SCAPS-1D simulator. The overall maximum optimized performance of the photovoltaic solar cell
of 16.29% is obtained using TiO2 and PbS-TBAI(tetrabutylammonium iodide) as a ETL and absorber layer respectively. Our research demonstrates that an efficient quantum dot solar cell could be fabricated experimentally using the optimal device structure.
Analysis of Adaptive Adjustment Mechanism for Diamond Beaded Rope of Wire Saw
Authors: Liang Huiping , Feng Jiahao , Liu Jianwei , Zhang Shuai , Mao Guanghua
Published: February 2023

Rope saw technology played an important role in the field of high hardness material processing due to the high cutting efficiency, low equipment costs, energy saving and environmental protection. However, traditional wire saws can often become too slack for the beaded rope to cut due
to reduced tension during the cutting process. A new diamond bead rope adaptive adjustment cutting method is proposed based on the conventional wire saw. Firstly, the three-dimensional structure of the beaded rope self-adjusting wire saw is modeled by SOLIDWORKS. Secondly, the modal analysis
of the beaded rope adaptive adjustment wire saw is proposed based on the ANSYS. Thirdly, the kinematic model is established, and the dynamics of adaptive adjustment mechanism of diamond beaded rope wire saw is analyzed and verified by ADAMS. Finally, the mechanical property of the adaptive
adjustment mechanism is analyzed by ADAMS and MATLAB co-simulation. The mechanical structure of the diamond wire saw is innovatively designed and its advantages are verified through dynamic analysis and co-simulation. This research provides reference value for the optimization research of
wire saw machine in the future.
Preparation and Modification of Biomass Carbon Materials in Secondary-Ion Batteries: From the Aspect of Resource and Composition
Authors: Wang Liangliang , Wu Xiangyu , Zhang Chi , Xiao Baiyang , Guo Jia , Liu Haixuan , Deng Qijiu
Published: February 2023

Biomass carbon materials with high theoretical specific capacity, low cost and pollution-free, play an essential role in secondary batteries as anode materials or modified substrates. This review classifies biomass based on its resource and composition and introduces the application
of biomass raw fibers, biomass extracts, biomass synthetic fibers, and other materials in lithium-sulfur, potassium-ion, sodium-ion and lithium-ion batteries. It provides a systematic review of the processing methods of different forms of biomass materials. Additionally, the perspectives are
also proposed for next-generation biomass carbon materials-based ion batteries.
Understanding Head CT Scan Usage Amongst Adolescent Blunt Trauma Patients Treated at a Level 1 Adult Trauma Center
Authors: Parker Laurel A. , Villamor Laurie L. , Groszman Lilly , Xiang Laurel , Koganti Deepika , Smith Randi , Sola Richard
Published: February 2023

Background

Guidelines developed by the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) exist to reserve the use of head CT for pediatric patients with a high risk of head injury. However, CTs are still being overutilized especially at adult trauma centers. The aim of our study was to review our use of head CTs in adolescent blunt trauma patients.

Materials and Methods

Patients aged 11-18 who underwent head CT scans from 2016 to 2019 at our urban level 1 adult trauma center were included. Data was collected via electronic medical record and analyzed through retrospective chart review.

Results

Of the 285 patients requiring a head CT, 205 had a negative head CT (NHCT) and 80 patients had a positive head CT (PHCT). There was no difference in age, gender, race, and trauma mechanism between the groups. The PHCT group was found to be with a statistically significant higher likelihood of the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) < 15 (65% vs 23%; P < .01), abnormal head exam (70% vs 25%; P < .01), and loss of consciousness (85% vs 54%; P < .01) compared to the NHCT group. There were 44 patients who had low risk of head injury, based on the PECARN guidelines, and received a head CT. None of the patients had a positive head CT.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that reinforcement of the PECARN guidelines should occur for ordering head CTs in adolescent blunt trauma patients. Future prospective studies are needed to validate the use of PECARN head CT guidelines in this patient population.
Outcomes in Pediatric Burn Patients With Additional Trauma-Related Injuries
Authors: Sljivic Sanja , Agala Chris B. , McLean Sean E. , Williams Felicia N. , Nizamani Rabia , Meyer Anthony A. , King Booker T.
Published: February 2023

The addition of trauma to burn injuries may result in higher morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of pediatric patients with a combination of burn and trauma injuries, and included all pediatric Burn only, Trauma only, and combined Burn-Trauma patients admitted between 2011 and 2020. Mean length of stay, ICU length of stay, and ventilator days were highest for the Burn-Trauma group. The odds of mortality were almost 13 times higher for the Burn-Trauma group when compared to the Burn only group ( P = .1299). After using inverse probability of treatment weighting, the odds of mortality were almost 10 times higher for the Burn-Trauma group in comparison to the Burn only group ( P < .0066). Thus, the addition of trauma to burn injuries was associated with increased odds of mortality, as well as longer ICU and overall hospital length of stay in this patient population.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding in the Setting of Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome Due to SMAD4 Mutation
Authors: Smith Paula Marincola , Tan Marcus C.
Published: February 2023

A 27-year-old female presented at 13 weeks’ gestation with epigastric pain and anemia requiring blood and iron transfusions but no family history of gastrointestinal malignancy. Upper endoscopy revealed a giant circumferential polyp and associated hyperplastic-appearing polyps in the proximal stomach. Biopsies revealed hyperplasia with lamina propria eosinophils. She was supported with intermittent transfusions until labor was induced at 34 weeks’ gestation. Total gastrectomy was performed at seven weeks post-partum. Final pathology revealed multiple hamartomatous polyps without malignancy. Her anemia resolved postoperatively. Genetic testing revealed mutation of the SMAD4 gene and Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome. JPS is caused by germline mutations in the SMAD4 or BMPR1A genes and is characterized by hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract. While most polyps are benign, malignant transformation can occur. One should have low threshold to send patients for genetic screening when multiple polyps are found in a young patient, even without family history.
Explaining achievement gaps between students from regional and metropolitan areas: Accounting for socio-demographic and school climate factors
Authors: Perales Francisco , Johnstone Melissa , Xiang Ning , Tomaszewski Wojtek
Published: February 2023

Australian children from regional, rural and remote (RRR) areas exhibit lower educational outcomes than their peers in metropolitan areas. The mechanisms driving the comparatively poorer educational outcomes of children in RRR areas, however, are not well understood. This paper proposes and tests two sets of factors that may be responsible for these disparities: population socio-demographic composition and school climate. Using rich survey and linked administrative data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children ( n = 9,248 observations), we estimate the relative contribution of these sets of factors to RRR children’s disadvantage in NAPLAN numeracy test scores. Our results indicate that both socio-demographic and school climate factors account for part of the educational disparities between children in RRR and metropolitan areas. These findings suggest that hybrid policy approaches that tackle both the social determinants of educational success and use schools as an intervention site are required to close the achievement gap.
Effect of melt temperature on microstructural and strength properties of in-situ aluminum metal matrix composites containing SiCNO particles
Authors: Pandian Arul , Chelliah Nagaraj M , Rohatgi Pradeep K , Surappa Mirle K
Published: February 2023

Polymer Injection Pyrolysis (PIPs) can be adopted to synthesize in-situ ceramic particles within molten metal by stir-casting process. This paper investigated the effect of pyrolysis temperatures on microstructural and strength properties of in-situ aluminum matrix composites containing 2.5 vol% of SiCNO particles. In-situ composites were synthesized by stir-mixing of cross-linked polysilazane at four different pyrolysis temperatures (675–850°C) at which in-situ pyrolysis occurred and then followed by ultrasonic agitation and squeeze casting process. Microstructural data reveals that grain size and the particle size of SiCNO particles decreases with increasing the temperature of the melt at which polymer was introduced into the melt. The increase in the strength properties of the fabricated composites as compared to pure aluminum is almost 210% for the composites fabricated at 850°C while it is marginally 17% for the composites fabricated at 720°C. Fractography studies suggest that composite fabricated at 675°C exhibits a better combination of yield strength and ductility.
English Language Teachers’ Emotion Labor in Response to Online Teaching: An Interpretative Phenomenological Approach
Authors: Nazari Mostafa , Karimpour Sedigheh , Xodabande Ismail
Published: February 2023

Recent iterations of online education emphasize gaining a deeper understanding of teachers’ professional skills, competencies, and performances. In line with this growing scholarship, the present study adopted an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach and examined Iranian English language teachers’ emotion labor in response to online teaching. To this end, data were collected from semi-structured interviews, reflective journals, and narrative frames. Data analysis revealed three themes defining the teachers’ emotion labor: clashes in effective student engagement, conflicts in effective material coverage, and tensions in delivering effective assessment. The study shows how online teaching played an overarching role in the multiplicity and fragmented nature of the teachers’ emotions and how the teachers engaged in surface and deep acting in accordance with the emerging particularities to respond to institutional expectations. Based on the findings, we provide implications for teacher educators and policymakers to run emotion labor-related professional development courses that account for teachers’ emotions and involve them in initiatives responding to their emotion work.
Use of Research-Based Transition Recommendations for Youth With Disabilities in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Plans
Authors: Whittenburg Holly N. , Rooney-Kron Magen , Carlson Sarah R. , Malouf Emily T. , Taylor Joshua P.
Published: February 2023

As vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies continue to implement provisions of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to provide employment-related transition services to youth with disabilities, it is unclear if implementation plans include predictors of post-school employment and evidence-based transition practices. We conducted a content analysis of 54 state/territory VR agency WIOA plans from 2020 to determine the extent to which research-based transition recommendations (RBTRs) were included. Our findings indicate that there was substantial variability in the number of RBTRs present within plans but that most plans ( n = 46) included between 50% and 70% of RBTRs. Career awareness, interagency collaboration, and general work experience activities were most frequently represented. Of note, student involvement in transition planning, technology skills instruction, and career technical education did not appear as frequently in plans. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
‘Signs of the times’: Prophecy belief in contemporary Greek Orthodox contexts
Authors: Kessareas Efstathios
Published: February 2023

This article examines the structure, content, and function of widely circulating prophetic narratives in contemporary Greece and Cyprus. Prophetologists play a key role in recycling and disseminating prophecies through traditional and modern means of communication in an attempt to explain conditions of crisis and to promote conservative moral values and nationalistic aspirations as salvific remedies in the public sphere. Their highly politicized prophetic discourse blurs the differentiation between religion and politics that characterizes secular modernity. But at the same time, the use of modern media and secular strategies for sacred purposes have unintended secularizing effects on the religious field. Finally, the article explores the reasons why prophecy belief finds fertile soil for proliferation in these countries.