bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraday Risk Management of Cryptocurrency Returns During 2020–2021 Upsurge: A Conditional EVT Approach
Authors: Roy Abhijit
Published: March 2023

The cryptocurrency market is characterized by extremely high volatility. In the present study, we show the predictive ability of conditional EVT models in the cryptocurrency market during the price upsurge of 2020–2021. Taking high-frequency intraday data of four popular cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Binance coin, we compare the accuracy of different competing models in estimating intraday value at risk (VaR) and expected shortfall (ES). The present study focuses on the extreme value theory (EVT) for modeling the tail of the distribution to forecast the measures of intraday VaR and ES. The study confirms the fat-tailed behavior of intraday returns of all four cryptocurrencies. Further, the study shows the magnitudes of high negative shocks are more than the positive ones for the returns of all four cryptocurrencies. The study uses suitable GARCH-family models such as apARCH, EGARCH, and CGARCH in the ARMA-GARCH framework. Using a two-stage approach the study shows how GARCH-EVT models with skewed student’s— t distribution outperform the predictability of conditional EVT with standard normal distribution as well as the unconditional EVT models in predicting intraday VaR and ES. The result of the study is useful for risk managers, day traders, and also for machine-based algorithmic trading.
Race over Religion: Christian Nationalism and Perceived Threats to National Unity
Authors: Perry Samuel L. , Whitehead Andrew L. , Grubbs Joshua B.
Published: March 2023

Building on the insight that American religion is fundamentally “raced” and “complex,” we theorize American religion is so deeply racialized that seemingly “race-neutral” religious claims about national identity are ultimately more oriented toward racial rather than religious considerations. Drawing on recent, nationally representative data, we test how technically “race-neutral” measures of Christian nationalism interact with race to shape how Americans evaluate the national implications of religious and racial diversity. Though Christian nationalism predicts viewing both religious and racial diversity as national hindrances, its association with racial diversity is much stronger. This holds across racial groups, and particularly among Black and Asian Americans. In contrast, interactions show Black Americans diverge from whites in that they become more favorable toward religious diversity as Christian nationalism increases. Combining outcomes into four categories, Americans who score higher on Christian nationalism are more likely to become “Ecumenical Ethno-Pessimists” (viewing religious diversity as a strength, but racial diversity as a hindrance) than pure “Ethno-Nationalists” (viewing both religious and racial diversity as hindrances). This association is especially strong among Black and Asian Americans. Findings demonstrate even with seemingly “race-neutral” measures that would ostensibly target religious heterogeneity as the core national threat, it is racial diversity that threatens national unity.
Patient and Family Perpetrated Cyber-Incivility and Cyber-Aggression Within Healthcare: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
Authors: Spencer Cara , Loehr Kelsey , Byrd Abby
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Verbal violence may manifest in written form as cyber incivility within patient portal communications. As a form of digital technology, patient portal messages create a physical and emotional distance leading the sender to be disinhibited and disassociated from the recipient nurse. Written patient portal messages may contain uncivil language deemed verbally violent when the content escalates beyond professional standards. When these messages are encountered as part of patient care, they may lead to nurses’ psychological distress. Although cyber-incivility has been studied within social media and business, little is known about cyber-incivility within healthcare.

Objectives

The purpose of the study was to define cyber-incivility as it manifests within healthcare compared to business, determine sender demographics, and quantify the impact on nurses.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted to analyze portal communications. Nurses forwarded aggressive messages to leadership and quantified their level of distress after receiving the message. Sender demographics were tracked, and content was analyzed using Braun and Clarke's Thematic Analysis.

Results

Of the 31 included messages, senders were of varying ages, genders, and marital statuses. Messages rarely related to medications and rarely contained expletives. The most distressing messages were ad hominem, demanding, accusatory, or contained threats. These messages illustrated how healthcare cyber-incivility manifested and deviated from appropriate professional standards to become a form of verbal workplace violence. Message content also identified antecedents; related to unmet expectations, patient accountability, or difficulty navigating healthcare.

Conclusions

Written incivil/uncivil/aggressive patient portal messages contained personal attacks and professionally degrading content, which were distressing to nurses. A healthcare-specific framework was created and provided context to understand the difficult and aggressive messages nurses received while providing digital patient care. Awareness of cyber-incivility within healthcare allows for better support of nurses who are exposed to this form of workplace violence and is foundational to future intervention development.
Ischemic stroke recurrence and mortality in different imaging phenotypes of ischemic cerebrovascular disease: The SMART-MR Study
Authors: Lucci Carlo , Rissanen Ina , de Jong Pim A , Kappelle L Jaap , Hendrikse Jeroen , Geerlings Mirjam I
Published: March 2023

Background:

Diagnosis of cerebrovascular disease is based on both clinical and radiological findings, however, they do not always correlate.

Aims:

To investigate ischemic stroke recurrence and mortality in patients with different imaging phenotypes of ischemic cerebrovascular disease.

Methods:

Within the SMART-MR study, a prospective patient cohort with arterial disease, cerebrovascular diseases of participants at baseline were classified as no cerebrovascular disease (reference group, n = 828), symptomatic cerebrovascular disease ( n = 204), covert vascular lesions ( n = 156), or imaging negative ischemia ( n = 90) based upon clinical and MRI findings. Ischemic strokes and deaths were collected at 6 month-intervals up to 17 years of follow-up. With Cox regression, relationships between phenotype and ischemic stroke recurrence, cardiovascular mortality, and non-vascular mortality were studied adjusted for age, sex, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results:

Compared to reference group risk for recurrent ischemic stroke was increased not only in the symptomatic cerebrovascular disease (HR 3.9, 95% CI 2.3–6.6), but also in the covert vascular lesion (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.3–4.8) and the imaging negative ischemia groups (HR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.5). Risk for cardiovascular mortality was increased in the symptomatic cerebrovascular disease (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5–3.2) and covert vascular lesions groups (HR 2.3, 95% CI 1.5–3.4), while the risk was less strong but also increased in the imaging negative ischemia group (HR 1.7, 95% CI 0.9–3.0).

Conclusions:

People with all imaging phenotypes of cerebrovascular disease have increased risk of recurrent ischemic stroke and mortality compared to other arterial diseases. Strict preventive measures should be performed even when imaging findings or clinical symptoms are absent.

Data access statement:

For use of anonymized data, a reasonable request has to be made in writing to the UCC-SMART study group and the third party has to sign a confidentiality agreement.
The Piikani Well-being Project: Indigenous-led metrics and mapping to improve human and agricultural system health within the Amskapi Piikani Blackfeet Nation
Authors: Paul Kimberly L , Carlson Helen Augare , Weatherwax Melissa Little Plume , Caplins Laura , Falcon Christen , Carter Christopher J , Ruppel Kristin T
Published: March 2023

As the first stewards and scientists, Indigenous Peoples have collected data on land relationships across homelands since time immemorial. Settler-colonial experiences have associated data and maps as tools of dispossession, disparity, and disempowerment. Today, however, Indigenous-led statistics and mapping efforts yield powerful tools for Nations in addressing the interconnected wellness of Indigenous biosystems, lands, and people while honoring collectively held knowledge and community protocols. This article details both quantitative and qualitative Indigenous research, with geospatial methodologies of the Amskapi Piikani (Blackfeet Nation), in the creation of the Amskapi Piikani Nation’s first well-being index. The Piikani Well-being Index (PWI), generated by this project, is grounded in cultural values and informed by traditional and current knowledge(s) defining 80 variables. The PWI encompasses areas of human health, agriculture and food sovereignty, cultural systems, social and educational lifeways, environmental stewardship, institutions and governance, economics, and land tenure to include traditional land use and Native land revitalization after centuries of systematic oppression, assimilation policies, structural inequities, and trauma. This project navigates data sovereignty challenges while mobilizing data generated by the Nation’s first Indigenous land use census. Offering new insights for our Tribal leaders and organizations at nation, local, and watershed scales, the PWI represents an Indigenous system view to better build community research agendas and action. This article discusses the challenges incurred in data collection and use while identifying areas of future work determining metrics and tools to cover the environmental, social, economic, and health research needs of Indigenous communities through data sovereignty.
Lord of the Flies in Project-Based Organizations: The Role of Passive Leadership on Creativity and Project Success
Authors: Mubarak Namra , Khan Jabran , Pesämaa Ossi
Published: March 2023

This study examines the role of passive project leadership in project success. The article deduces a theoretical model implying that passive project manager leadership behavior affects the success of information technology projects, directly and indirectly, via employees’ creativity. Self-regulation is proposed as a mitigating factor to minimize the destructive effects of passive leadership on creativity. The current study is based on a quantitative research design. A time lag design was used to collect data from 347 respondents working on information technology projects in Pakistan. SmartPLS was used for data analysis. The findings demonstrated that although passive leadership appears in flat organizations, it can have a negative impact on project success via creativity. Additionally, if the person is self-regulatory, it will not alter the results. The study added to the project management body of knowledge by confirming that a strong leadership role, instead of a passive one, is essential to boosting the creativity of project personnel. A passive leader remains inactive during situations where a strong leader is needed; however, self-regulation on the part of employees proved insufficient to propel a project toward success.
USP1 promotes the aerobic glycolysis and progression of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia via PLK1/LDHA axis
Authors: Liu Shuguang , Xiang Yuening , Wang Boshi , Gao Chao , Chen Zhenping , Xie Shao , Wu Jing , Liu Yi , Zhao Xiaoxi , Yang Chao , Yue Zhixia , Wang Linya , Wen Xiaojia , Zhang Ruidong , Zhang Feng , Xu Heng , Zhai Xiaowen , Zheng Huyong , Zhang Hui , Qian Maoxiang
Published: March 2023

The effect of aerobic glycolysis remains elusive in pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Increasing evidence has revealed that dysregulation of deubiquitination is involved in glycolysis, by targeting glycolytic rate-limiting enzymes. Here, we demonstrated that upregulated deubiquitinase ubiquitin-specific peptidase 1 (USP1) expression correlated with poor prognosis in pediatric primary T-ALL samples. USP1 depletion abolished cellular proliferation and attenuated glycolytic metabolism. In vivo experiments showed that USP1 suppression decreased leukemia progression in nude mice. Inhibition of USP1 caused a decrease in both mRNA and protein levels in lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), a critical glycolytic enzyme. Moreover, USP1 interacted with and deubiquitinated polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), a critical regulator of glycolysis. Overexpression of USP1 with upregulated PLK1 was observed in most samples of patients with T-ALL. In addition, PLK1 inhibition reduced LDHA expression and abrogated the USP1-mediated increase of cell proliferation and lactate level. Ectopic expression of LDHA can rescue the suppressive effect of USP1 silencing on cell growth and lactate production. Pharmacological inhibition of USP1 by ML323 exhibited cell cytotoxicity in human T-ALL cells. Taken together, our results demonstrated that USP1 may be a promising therapeutic target in pediatric T-ALL.
SAR443809: a selective inhibitor of the complement alternative pathway, targeting complement factor Bb
Authors: Rajagopal Vaishnavi , Leksa Nina , Gorham Ronald , Jindal Siddharth , Nair Soumya , Knockenhauer Kevin , Chan Joanne , Byun Tony , Mercadante Courtney , Moore Stephen , Panicker Sandip , Parry Graham , Storek Michael
Published: March 2023

Dysregulated activation of the complement system is implicated in the onset or progression of several diseases. Most clinical-stage complement inhibitors target the inactive complement proteins present at high concentrations in plasma, which increases target-mediated drug disposition and necessitates high drug levels to sustain therapeutic inhibition. Furthermore, many efforts are aimed at inhibiting only terminal pathway activity, which leaves opsonin-mediated effector functions intact. We describe the discovery of SAR443809, a specific inhibitor of the alternative pathway C3/C5 convertase (C3bBb). SAR443809 selectively binds to the activated form of factor B (factor Bb) and inhibits alternative pathway activity by blocking the cleavage of C3, leaving the initiation of classical and lectin complement pathways unaffected. Ex vivo experiments with patient-derived paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria erythrocytes show that, although terminal pathway inhibition via C5 blockade can effectively inhibit hemolysis, proximal complement inhibition with SAR443809 inhibits both hemolysis and C3b deposition, abrogating the propensity for extravascular hemolysis. Finally, intravenous and subcutaneous administration of the antibody in nonhuman primates demonstrated sustained inhibition of complement activity for several weeks after injection. Overall, SAR443809 shows strong potential for treatment of alternative pathway-mediated disorders.
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: state-of-the-(C)ART and the road ahead
Authors: Pasvolsky Oren , Kebriaei Partow , Shah Bijal D. , Jabbour Elias , Jain Nitin
Published: March 2023

Autologous anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has recently been added to the armamentarium in the battle against B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). In this review, we discuss the trials that led to US Food and Drug Administration approval of CAR T-cell therapies in patients with B-ALL. We evaluate the evolving role of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant in the CAR T-cell era and discuss lessons learned from the first steps with CAR T-cell therapy in ALL. Upcoming innovations in CAR technology, including combined and alternative targets and off-the-shelf allogeneic CAR T-cell strategies are presented. Finally, we envision the role that CAR T cells could take in the management of adult patients with B-ALL in the near future.
Evolution and Development Trend Prospect of Metal Milling Equipment
Authors: Wen Jie , Xie Fugui , Liu Xinjun , Yue Yi
Published: March 2023

The world is currently undergoing profound changes which have never happened within the past century. Global competition in the technology and industry fields is becoming increasingly fierce. The strategic competition of the major powers further focuses on the manufacturing industry. Developed countries such as the United States, Germany, and Japan have successively put forward strategic plans such as “re-industrialization” and “return of manufacturing industry”, aiming to seize the commanding heights of a new round of global high-end technology competition and expand international market share. Standing at the historic intersection of a new round of scientific and technological revolution and China’s accelerated high-quality development, the “14th Five-Year Plan” clearly pointed out that intelligent manufacturing is the main development trend to promote China’s manufacturing to the medium-high end of the global value chain. This reflects the importance of advanced manufacturing for national strategic layout. To better grasp the development direction of advanced manufacturing equipment, the development process and current application status of manufacturing equipment are summarized, and thereafter the characteristics of manufacturing equipment in different development stages of the manufacturing industry are analyzed. Finally, the development trend of advanced milling equipment is prospected.
Influence of health literacy on health outcomes of different social strata—— an empirical study based on the data of China's health literacy investigation
Authors: Yu Huifang , Sun Siwen , Ling Jie , Chen Haixiao , Liu Guilin
Published: March 2023

Background

Health literacy has always been considered as an important factor to promote people's health, but does it have a significant effect on health across all social strata and especially lower social strata? This study aims to analyze the influences of health literacy on health outcomes of different social strata, and then infer whether improving health literacy can reduce health disparities among different social strata.

Methods

Utilizing health literacy monitoring data from a city in Zhejiang Province in 2020, the samples are divided into three social strata according to the socioeconomic status score: low, middle and high social stratum, to compare whether there are significant differences in health outcomes between population with lower and higher health literacy among different social strata. In the strata with significant differences, control the confounding factors to further verify the influence of health literacy on health outcomes.

Results

In low and middle social strata, there are significant differences between population with lower and higher health literacy, when considering the two types of health outcomes (chronic diseases and self-rated health), but in high social stratum, this difference is not significant. After controlling the relevant variables, the influence of health literacy on the prevalence of chronic diseases is statistically significant only in low social stratum, and the health literacy is negatively correlated with the prevalence of chronic diseases(OR = 0.722,P = 0.022). In addition, there are statistical significances for positive impact of health literacy on self-rated health in both low and middle social strata (OR = 1.285,P = 0.047; OR = 1.401,P = 0.023).

Conclusion

Compared with high social stratum, the influence of health literacy on health outcomes of low social stratum (chronic diseases) or both middle and low social strata (self-rated health) is more significant, and both are to improve the health outcomes. This finding suggests that improving residents' health literacy may be an effective way to alleviate the health disparities among different social strata.
Maternal e-cigarette use can disrupt postnatal blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and deteriorates motor, learning and memory function: influence of sex and age
Authors: Archie Sabrina Rahman , Sifat Ali Ehsan , Zhang Yong , Villalba Heidi , Sharma Sejal , Nozohouri Saeideh , Abbruscato Thomas J.
Published: March 2023

Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), also commonly known as electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) are considered in most cases as a safer alternative to tobacco smoking and therefore have become extremely popular among all age groups and sex. It is estimated that up to 15% of pregnant women are now using e-cigs in the US which keeps increasing at an alarming rate. Harmful effects of tobacco smoking during pregnancy are well documented for both pregnancy and postnatal health, however limited preclinical and clinical studies exist to evaluate the long-term effects of prenatal e-cig exposure on postnatal health. Therefore, the aim of our study is to evaluate the effect of maternal e-cig use on postnatal blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and behavioral outcomes of mice of varying age and sex. In this study, pregnant CD1 mice (E5) were exposed to e‐Cig vapor (2.4% nicotine) until postnatal day (PD) 7. Weight of the offspring was measured at PD0, PD7, PD15, PD30, PD45, PD60 and PD90. The expression of structural elements of the BBB, tight junction proteins (ZO-1, claudin-5, occludin), astrocytes (GFAP), pericytes (PDGFRβ) and the basement membrane (laminin α1, laminin α4), neuron specific marker (NeuN), water channel protein (AQP4) and glucose transporter (GLUT1) were analyzed in both male and female offspring using western blot and immunofluorescence. Estrous cycle was recorded by vaginal cytology method. Long‐term motor and cognitive functions were evaluated using open field test (OFT), novel object recognition test (NORT) and morris water maze test (MWMT) at adolescence (PD 40–45) and adult (PD 90–95) age. In our study, significantly reduced expression of tight junction proteins and astrocyte marker were observed in male and female offspring until PD 90 (P < 0.05). Additionally, prenatally e-cig exposed adolescent and adult offspring showed impaired locomotor, learning, and memory function compared to control offspring (P < 0.05). Our findings suggest that prenatal e-cig exposure induces long-term neurovascular changes of neonates by disrupting postnatal BBB integrity and worsening behavioral outcomes.
Women’s experiences and views on early breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway: quantitative and qualitative findings from the IMAgiNE EURO study
Authors: Vik Eline Skirnisdottir , Kongslien Sigrun , Nedberg Ingvild Hersoug , Mariani Ilaria , Valente Emanuelle Pessa , Covi Benedetta , Lazzerini Marzia
Published: March 2023

Background

Little is known about women’s experience of care and views on early breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway.

Methods

Women (n = 2922) who gave birth in a facility in Norway between March 2020 and June 2021 were invited to answer an online questionnaire based on World Health Organization (WHO) Standard-based quality measures, exploring their experiences of care and views on early breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic. To examine associations between year of birth (2020, 2021) and early breastfeeding-related factors, we estimated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using multiple logistic regression. Qualitative data were analysed using Systematic Text Condensation.

Results

Compared to the first year of the pandemic (2020), women who gave birth in 2021 reported higher odds of experiencing adequate breastfeeding support (adjOR 1.79; 95% CI 1.35, 2.38), immediate attention from healthcare providers when needed (adjOR 1.89; 95% CI 1.49, 2.39), clear communication from healthcare providers (adjOR 1.76; 95% CI 1.39, 2.22), being allowed companion of choice (adjOR 1.47; 95% CI 1.21, 1.79), adequate visiting hours for partner (adjOR 1.35; 95% CI 1.09, 1.68), adequate number of healthcare providers (adjOR 1.24; 95% CI 1.02, 1.52), and adequate professionalism of the healthcare providers (adjOR 1.65; 95% CI 1.32, 2.08). Compared to 2020, in 2021 we found no difference in skin-to-skin contact, early breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding at discharge, adequate number of women per room, or women’s satisfaction. In their comments, women described understaffed postnatal wards, early discharge and highlighted the importance of breastfeeding support, and concerns about long-term consequences such as postpartum depression.

Conclusions

In the second year of the pandemic, WHO Standard-based quality measures related to breastfeeding improved for women giving birth in Norway compared to the first year of the pandemic. Women’s general satisfaction with care during COVID-19 did however not improve significantly from 2020 to 2021. Compared to pre-pandemic data, our findings suggest an initial decrease in exclusive breastfeeding at discharge during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway with little difference comparing 2020 versus 2021. Our findings should alert researchers, policy makers and clinicians in postnatal care services to improve future practices.
The outcome of IV vitamin C therapy in patients with sepsis or septic shock: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liang Baofang , Su Jianwei , Shao Hanquan , Chen Huiying , Xie Baocheng
Published: March 2023

Background

To update a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and further explore the outcome of IV vitamin C (IVVC) administration in sepsis or septic shock patients.

Methods

This study is a meta-analysis of RCTs. The RCTs of vitamin C therapy in sepsis or septic shock were searched in PubMed, EMBASE and Clinical Trials.gov from inception to January 16, 2023. We registered the protocol with PROSPERO (CRD42022354875). The primary outcome was delta Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score at 72–96 h. Two reviewers independently assessed RCTs according to eligibility criteria: (1) study type: RCT; (2) patient population: patients ≥ 18 years with sepsis or septic shock; (3) intervention: IVVC at any doses as monotherapy or combined with thiamine or and hydrocortisone compared with standard of care, no intervention or placebo (defined as control group); (4) the RCT described short-term mortality or SOFA score. Then, two authors independently extracted related information from RCTs.

Results

Eighteen RCTs (n = 3364 patients) were identified in this meta-analysis. There were significant effects in the delta SOFA score from baseline to 72–96 h (MD, − 0.62; 95% CI, − 1.00 to − 0.25; p = 0.001) and the duration of vasopressor use (MD, − 15.07; 95% CI, − 21.59 to − 8.55; p < 0.00001) with IVVC therapy. Treatment with IVVC was not shown to improve short-term mortality (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.77 to 1.04; p = 0.14); nevertheless, dose at 25–100 mg/kg/d subgroup associated with a significant reduction in short-term mortality (OR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.97; p = 0.03). An increase adverse event was observed in IVVC therapy (OR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.06 to 3.68; p = 0.03).

Conclusion

In this meta-analysis, IVVC in sepsis or septic shock patients significantly improved delta SOFA score and reduced the duration of vasopressor use, whereas it was not associated with reduction in short-term mortality and had higher adverse events.
Randomized clinical trial with fractional CO2 laser and Clobetasol in the treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: a clinic study of feasibility
Authors: Salgado Hakayna Calegaro , Drumond Denise Gasparetti , Pannain Gabriel Duque , de Melo e Costa Louise Gracielle , Sampaio Fernanda Souza , Leite Isabel Cristina Gonçalves
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The main objective of the study was to describe and compare the feasibility of using fractional CO2 laser to the usual treatment with Clobetasol. Randomized clinical trials brought together 20 women from a Brazilian university hospital, 9 of them were submitted to Clobetasol treatment and 11 to laser therapy. Sociodemographic data were obtained and quality of life parameters, vulvar anatomy, self-perception and histopathological analysis of vulvar biopsies were evaluated. Evaluations were made before the beginning of the treatment, during its implementation, right after its completion (3 months), and 12 months after. The SPSS 14.0 software was used, obtaining descriptive measurements. The level of significance adopted was 5%.

Results

The clinical/anatomical characteristics of the vulva did not differ between the treatment groups, as much before as after its performance. There was no statistically significant difference between the treatments performed regarding the impact on the life quality of the patients. A higher satisfaction degree with the treatment was obtained with the patients in the Laser group in the third month of evaluation. Laser therapy also revealed higher occurrence of telangiectasia after treatment completion. Fractional CO2 laser has proven to be well accepted and is a promising therapeutic option.

Registration number and name of trial registry The institutional review board status was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of HU/ UFJF under advisory number 2881073 and registered in the Brazilian Clinical Trials, with consent under registration RBR-4p9s5y. Access link: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-4p9s5y
Extracellular vesicle distribution and localization in skeletal muscle at rest and following disuse atrophy
Authors: Ismaeel Ahmed , Van Pelt Douglas W. , Hettinger Zachary R. , Fu Xu , Richards Christopher I. , Butterfield Timothy A. , Petrocelli Jonathan J. , Vechetti Ivan J. , Confides Amy L. , Drummond Micah J. , Dupont-Versteegden Esther E.
Published: March 2023

Background

Skeletal muscle (SkM) is a large, secretory organ that produces and releases myokines that can have autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine effects. Whether extracellular vesicles (EVs) also play a role in the SkM adaptive response and ability to communicate with other tissues is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate EV biogenesis factors, marker expression, and localization across cell types in the skeletal muscle. We also aimed to investigate whether EV concentrations are altered by disuse atrophy.

Methods

To identify the potential markers of SkM-derived EVs, EVs were isolated from rat serum using density gradient ultracentrifugation, followed by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy measurements or qPCR. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from rat SkM were analyzed to assess the EV biogenesis factor expression, and cellular localization of tetraspanins was investigated by immunohistochemistry. Finally, to assess the effects of mechanical unloading on EV expression in vivo, EV concentrations were measured in the serum by nanoparticle tracking analysis in both a rat and human model of disuse.

Results

In this study, we show that the widely used markers of SkM-derived EVs, α-sarcoglycan and miR-1, are undetectable in serum EVs. We also found that EV biogenesis factors, including the tetraspanins CD63, CD9, and CD81, are expressed by a variety of cell types in SkM. SkM sections showed very low detection of CD63, CD9, and CD81 in myofibers and instead accumulation within the interstitial space. Furthermore, although there were no differences in serum EV concentrations following hindlimb suspension in rats, serum EV concentrations were elevated in human subjects after bed rest.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insight into the distribution and localization of EVs in SkM and demonstrate the importance of methodological guidelines in SkM EV research.
Influencing factors and predictive model of live birth involving low-grade blastocyst frozen–thawed transfer: a retrospective study
Authors: Fang Yuan , He Ye , Wang Wanlu , Zhang Zhiguo , Zhou Ping , Cao Yunxia , He Xiaojin , Xu Yuping , Wei Zhaolian
Published: March 2023

Background

Whether only low-grade blastocysts should undergo freeze–thaw transfer during the in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycle remains controversial; however, high-quality embryos cannot be obtained from some patients. Therefore, we aimed to identify factors that may affect the live birth.

Methods

A total of 662 couples with only low-grade blastocysts who voluntarily accepted freeze–thaw blastocyst transfer at a single reproductive center over a 7-year period were followed-up. According to the outcome after transfer, they were divided into live birth group and failed pregnancy group. A nomogram was constructed for predicting live births.

Results

Baseline information and clinical treatment characteristics of patients in the two groups were comparable. Fifty-two of the 662 cycles (7.9%) resulted in live birth. Paternal age, maternal basal luteinizing hormone level, endometrial preparation scheme, and blastocyst development days were independent factors that affected low-grade blastocyst freeze–thaw transfer outcomes. The predictive model constructed based on these four factors presented favorable calibration and discriminatory abilities (area under the curve, 0.734; 95% confidence interval, 0.781–0.813).

Conclusions

For patients who exclusively underwent low-grade blastocyst freeze–thaw transfer, advanced paternal age and a high level of maternal basal luteinizing hormone adversely affected low-grade blastocyst freeze–thaw transfer outcomes. Artificial cycle preparation of the endometrium and day 5 blastocyst selection may improve the probability of live birth.
Practices, knowledge, and concerns for out-of-home firearm storage among those with access to firearms: results from a survey in two states
Authors: Barnard Leslie M. , Johnson Rachel L. , Brandspigel Sara , Rooney Lauren A. , McCarthy Megan , Rivara Frederick P. , Rowhani-Rahbar Ali , Knoepke Christopher E. , Peterson Ryan A. , Betz Marian E.
Published: March 2023

Background

Temporary, voluntary storage of firearms away from the home is a recommended option for individuals with risk of suicide, but it may also be used in other situations (e.g., long trips). Prior work has explored the availability of storage options and the views of storage locations. Little is known about out-of-home storage practices among those who live in homes with firearms (including owners).

Methods

We surveyed English-speaking adults (18 or older) in two states (Colorado and Washington) living in a home with a firearm (June–July 2021).

Results

Among the final sample of 1029, most respondents were white (88.1%) and non-Hispanic (85.0%); half were female (50.8%), and the most common age group was ages 35–44 (25.5%). Just over one quarter (27.3%) of respondents indicated they had stored a firearm away from their home/car/garage in the last 5 years. The place most respondents said they were somewhat or very likely to consider was at a family members home (62.7%) or at a self-storage facility (52.5%).

Conclusion

Out-of-home firearm storage is a relatively common practice and endorsed by many gun-owners, suggesting out-of-home storage is feasible for firearm owners as an approach to suicide prevention.
Optimizing sobriety checkpoints to maximize public health benefits and minimize operational costs
Authors: Morrison Christopher N. , Gobaud Ariana N. , Mehranbod Christina A. , Bushover Brady R. , Branas Charles C. , Wiebe Douglas J. , Peek-Asa Corinne , Chen Qixuan , Ferris Jason
Published: March 2023

Background

Sobriety checkpoints are a highly effective strategy to reduce alcohol-impaired driving, but they are used infrequently in the USA. Recent evidence from observational studies suggests that using optimized sobriety checkpoints—operating for shorter duration with fewer officers—can minimize operational costs without reducing public health benefits. The aim of this research was to conduct a pilot study to test whether police can feasibly implement optimized sobriety checkpoints and whether researchers can examine optimized sobriety checkpoints compared to usual practice within a non-randomized controlled trial study design.

Methods

The study site was the Town of Apex, NC. We worked with Apex Police Department to develop a schedule of sobriety checkpoints during calendar year 2021 that comprised 2 control checkpoints (conducted according to routine practice) and 4 optimized checkpoints staffed by fewer officers. Our primary operations aim was to test whether police can feasibly implement optimized sobriety checkpoints. Our primary research aim was to identify barriers and facilitators for conducting an intervention study of optimized sobriety checkpoints compared to usual practice. A secondary aim was to assess motorist support for sobriety checkpoints and momentary stress while passing through checkpoints.

Results

Apex PD conducted 5 of the 6 checkpoints and reported similar operational capabilities and results during the optimized checkpoints compared to control checkpoints. For example, a mean of 4 drivers were investigated for possibly driving while impaired at the optimized checkpoints, compared to 2 drivers at control checkpoints. The field team conducted intercept surveys among 112 motorists at 4 of the 6 checkpoints in the trial schedule. The survey response rate was 11% from among 1,045 motorists who passed through these checkpoints. Over 90% of respondents supported sobriety checkpoints, and momentary stress during checkpoints was greater for motorists who reported consuming any alcohol in the last 90 days compared to nondrinkers (OR = 6.7, 95%CI: 1.6, 27.1).

Conclusions

Results of this study indicate the sobriety checkpoints can feasibly be optimized by municipal police departments, but it will be very difficult to assess the impacts of optimized checkpoints compared to usual practice using an experimental study design.
Multivariate analysis of PET pharmacokinetic parameters improves inferential efficiency
Authors: Matheson Granville J. , Ogden R. Todd
Published: March 2023

Purpose

In positron emission tomography quantification, multiple pharmacokinetic parameters are typically estimated from each time activity curve. Conventionally all but the parameter of interest are discarded before performing subsequent statistical analysis. However, we assert that these discarded parameters also contain relevant information which can be exploited to improve the precision and power of statistical analyses on the parameter of interest. Properly taking this into account can thereby draw more informative conclusions without collecting more data.

Methods

By applying a hierarchical multifactor multivariate Bayesian approach, all estimated parameters from all regions can be analysed at once. We refer to this method as Parameters undergoing Multivariate Bayesian Analysis (PuMBA). We simulated patient–control studies with different radioligands, varying sample sizes and measurement error to explore its performance, comparing the precision, statistical power, false positive rate and bias of estimated group differences relative to univariate analysis methods.

Results

We show that PuMBA improves the statistical power for all examined applications relative to univariate methods without increasing the false positive rate. PuMBA improves the precision of effect size estimation, and reduces the variation of these estimates between simulated samples. Furthermore, we show that PuMBA yields performance improvements even in the presence of substantial measurement error. Remarkably, owing to its ability to leverage information shared between pharmacokinetic parameters, PuMBA even shows greater power than conventional univariate analysis of the true binding values from which the parameters were simulated. Across all applications, PuMBA exhibited a small degree of bias in the estimated outcomes; however, this was small relative to the variation in estimated outcomes between simulated datasets.

Conclusion

PuMBA improves the precision and power of statistical analysis of PET data without requiring the collection of additional measurements. This makes it possible to study new research questions in both new and previously collected data. PuMBA therefore holds great promise for the field of PET imaging.
Blockchain technology-based FinTech banking sector involvement using adaptive neuro-fuzzy-based K-nearest neighbors algorithm
Authors: Rjoub Husam , Adebayo Tomiwa Sunday , Kirikkaleli Dervis
Published: March 2023

The study aims to investigate the financial technology (FinTech) factors influencing Chinese banking performance. Financial expectations and global realities may be changed by FinTech’s multidimensional scope, which is lacking in the traditional financial sector. The use of technology to automate financial services is becoming more important for economic organizations and industries because the digital age has seen a period of transition in terms of consumers and personalization. The future of FinTech will be shaped by technologies like the Internet of Things, blockchain, and artificial intelligence. The involvement of these platforms in financial services is a major concern for global business growth. FinTech is becoming more popular with customers because of such benefits. FinTech has driven a fundamental change within the financial services industry, placing the client at the center of everything. Protection has become a primary focus since data are a component of FinTech transactions. The task of consolidating research reports for consensus is very manual, as there is no standardized format. Although existing research has proposed certain methods, they have certain drawbacks in FinTech payment systems (including cryptocurrencies), credit markets (including peer-to-peer lending), and insurance systems. This paper implements blockchain-based financial technology for the banking sector to overcome these transition issues. In this study, we have proposed an adaptive neuro-fuzzy-based K-nearest neighbors’ algorithm. The chaotic improved foraging optimization algorithm is used to optimize the proposed method. The rolling window autoregressive lag modeling approach analyzes FinTech growth. The proposed algorithm is compared with existing approaches to demonstrate its efficiency. The findings showed that it achieved 91% accuracy, 90% privacy, 96% robustness, and 25% cyber-risk performance. Compared with traditional approaches, the recommended strategy will be more convenient, safe, and effective in the transition period.
The relationship between iron deficiency anemia with restless leg syndrome and sleep quality in workers working in a textile factory in Iran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ghahremanfard Farahnaz , Semnani Maryam Rezaei , Mirmohammadkhani Majid , Mansori Kamyar , Pahlevan Daryoush
Published: March 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between iron deficiency anemia with restless leg syndrome (RLS) and sleep quality in workers working in a textile factory in Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 216 workers working in a textile factory in Iran. In addition to demographic and occupational variables, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and RLS questionnaires were used for the data collection. To investigate iron deficiency anemia, 2 CC of blood was taken from the brachial artery with the help of a 10-CC syringe with a blue or pink tip. Then, relevant data were entered into SPSS26 and analyzed.

Results

The mean (S. D.) age of the workers was 32.23 (6.14) and 60.6% of them were women. The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia was 21.2 and 69.5% in men and women, respectively. Most of the workers were in moderate condition in terms of RLS severity, and 78.2% had sleep disorders. There was an inverse and significant correlation between age (β= −0.200), work experience (β= −0.160), hemoglobin (β= −0.149), and ferritin (β= −0.186) with global PSQI score (P value<0.05). Also, an inverse and significant correlation was observed between age (β= −0.164), hemoglobin (β= −0.548), and ferritin (β= −0.410) with RLS score (P value<0.05). However, there was a direct and significant correlation between TIBC level and RLS score (β= 0.227) and global PSQI score (β= 0.395) (P value<0.05).

Conclusions

Intervention programs to reduce iron deficiency anemia and periodic screening programs to identify sleep disorders and RLS in textile factory workers seem necessary.
The NAC transcription factor MdNAC4 positively regulates nitrogen deficiency-induced leaf senescence by enhancing ABA biosynthesis in apple
Authors: Wen Binbin , Zhao Xuehui , Gong Xingyao , Zhao Wenzhe , Sun Mingyue , Chen Xiude , Li Dongmei , Li Ling , Xiao Wei
Published: March 2023

Although it is well established that nitrogen (N) deficiency induces leaf senescence, the molecular mechanism of N deficiency-induced leaf senescence remains largely unknown. Here, we show that an abscisic acid (ABA)-responsive NAC transcription factor (TF) is involved in N deficiency-induced leaf senescence. The overexpression of MdNAC4 led to increased ABA levels in apple calli by directly activating the transcription of the ABA biosynthesis gene MdNCED2. In addition, MdNAC4 overexpression promoted N deficiency-induced leaf senescence. Further investigation showed that MdNAC4 directly bound the promoter of the senescence-associated gene (SAG) MdSAG39 and upregulated its expression. Interestingly, the function of MdNAC4 in promoting N deficiency-induced leaf senescence was enhanced in the presence of ABA. Furthermore, we identified an interaction between the ABA receptor protein MdPYL4 and the MdNAC4 protein. Moreover, MdPYL4 showed a function similar to that of MdNAC4 in ABA-mediated N deficiency-induced leaf senescence. These findings suggest that ABA plays a central role in N deficiency-induced leaf senescence and that MdPYL4 interacts with MdNAC4 to enhance the response of the latter to N deficiency, thus promoting N deficiency-induced leaf senescence. In conclusion, our results provide new insight into how MdNAC4 regulates N deficiency-induced leaf senescence.

Graphical Abstract
Hydrophobic coatings and organic additives in Hellenistic-Roman mortars
Authors: Κοντογιάννη Βασιλική
Published: March 2023

Η διατριβή αξιολογεί την δυνατότητα εφαρμογής της Φασματοσκοπίας Ανάκλασης micro-FTIR στην ανίχνευση και ταυτοποίηση οργανικών πρόσθετων σε κονιάματα. Το πλεονέκτημα της μεθόδου να προσφέρει πληροφορίες για την χωρική κατανομή των υλικών, μη-καταστρεπτικά, αντισταθμίζει τους περιορισμούς που έχουν αναφερθεί σχετικά με τις στρεβλώσεις που εμφανίζονται σε φάσματα ανάκλασης FTIR και τις παρεμβολές των ανόργανων συστατικών των κονιαμάτων στην φασματική απόδοση των οργανικών πρόσθετων. Η μεθοδολογία ταυτοποίησης σχεδιάστηκε βάση των παραπάνω χαρακτηριστικών και δοκιμάστηκε σε εργαστηριακά δοκίμια οργανικών υλικών, επιλεγμένα ως πιθανά πρόσθετα σε αρχαία κονιάματα και στα μείγματα τους με κονίαμα σε προεπιλεγμένες αναλογίες, και σε δείγματα αρχαίων κονιαμάτων, για τα οποία υπήρχε η υπόνοια ύπαρξης οργανικού πρόσθετου στην σύστασή τους. Η αξιολόγηση πραγματοποιήθηκε σταδιακά, ξεκινώντας από την ανάπτυξη Βάσης Δεδομένων Χημικού Προσδιορισμού των Κορυφών (Chemical Peak Assignment Database (CPAD)), η οποία εμπεριείχε όλα τα φασματικά δεδομένα Ανάκλασης FTIR που συλλέχθηκαν από τα εργαστηριακά δοκίμια, ερευνώντας προσεγγίσεις ερμηνείας φασμάτων και καθορίζοντας χαρακτηριστικά φασματικά γνωρίσματα των οργανικών πρόσθετων σε κονιάματα. Τα αποτελέσματα της μεθοδολογίας αξιολογήθηκαν μέσω μιας σειράς πειραμάτων ταυτοποίησης σε εργαστηριακά δοκίμια, των οποίων η φύση του οργανικού υλικού και η αναλογία του στο μείγμα κονιάματος δεν ήταν γνωστά κατά την ανάλυση. Η χρήση της Ανάλυσης Κύριων Συνιστωσών (PCA) ως συμπληρωματική μέθοδο επιβεβαίωσης της μεθοδολογίας ταυτοποίησης CPAD αξιολογήθηκε, ακολουθώντας συνήθεις πρακτικές σε μελέτες περιπτώσεων που εφαρμόζουν Φασματοσκοπία Ανάκλασης FTIR (Sarmiento et al., 2011; Rosi et al., 2010; 2009).Οι προκλήσεις στην ταυτοποίηση, οι οποίες προκύπτουν από τις φυσικό-χημικές ιδιότητες των οργανικών υλικών και την παρεμβολή των ανόργανων συστατικών των κονιαμάτων, ερευνήθηκαν περαιτέρω μέσω της ανάλυσης δειγμάτων αρχαίων κονιαμάτων, τα οποία αναμένονταν να παράγουν φάσματα ανάκλασης αυξημένης πολυπλοκότητας λόγω της ευπάθειας των οργανικών υλικών στην φθορά και την βιολογική δραστηριότητα. Η διάρθρωση της διατριβής προσφέρει μια συνολική προσέγγιση στην αξιολόγηση της μεθόδου, ενσωματώνοντας τη θεωρία της Φασματοσκοπίας Ανάκλασης FTIR και τις ιδιαιτερότητες των υλικών που αναλύθηκαν στο σχεδιασμό και την εφαρμογή της μεθοδολογίας ταυτοποίησης.