bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palaeomagnetic results from Early Mesozoic strata in the Qaidam Basin and their implications for the formation of the Northern China Domain
Authors: Wang Bin , Huang Baochun , Yang Zhenyu , Zhang Guowei , Liu Xiaoming , Duan Liang , Armstrong Richard A , Meng Qingren
Published: December 2023

The Northern China Domain is located between the Central Asian Orogenic Belts to the north and the Kunlun–Qinling belt to the south, and it comprises the North China, Alxa and Tarim blocks. The relationships among the Northern China domain and the southern tectonic elements such as the Qaidam Basin/Terrane are debated because of the major modification by crustal deformation in the late Mesozoic–Cenozoic. To address this issue, we conducted a palaeomagnetic and high-precision radiometric dating study of Triassic volcanic rocks and Middle Jurassic strata in the Qaidam Terrane. Our objective was to determine the relationship between the Qaidam Terrane with the Tarim Block and the North China Block (NCB) during the late Palaeozoic and early Mesozoic. Four volcanic samples yielded zircon U-Pb ages of 236–243 Ma. The characteristic remanent magnetizations (Middle Triassic: D = 40.2°, I = 54.6°, α95 = 3.4°; Middle Jurassic: D = 27.4°, I = 48.0°, α95 = 7.9°) passed the fold and reversal tests, and yielded Middle Triassic and Middle Jurassic palaeopole positions at 57.6° N, 178.2° E, A95 = 4.0° and 65.8° N, 197.6° E, A95 = 7.8°, respectively. Based on these new poles, combined with other reliable data, we compared the apparent polar wander path (APWP) of the Qaidam Terrane with those of the NCB and Tarim Block. The results show that, from the Carboniferous through Early Cretaceous, the APWP of the Qaidam Terrane resembles that of the Tarim Block, but it is quite different from that of the NCB. Combined with other reported evidence, we conclude that the Qaidam Terrane was an independent dynamic unit during the late Palaeozoic until its connection with the Tarim Block, which was followed by continuous eastward motion. During this process, the connection between the Qaidam Terrane and the NCB–Alxa blocks occurred in the Middle Triassic, and subsequently the Qaidam Terrane underwent multiple tectonic responses to collisions with the Qiangtang Terrane, Lhasa Terrane and the India Plate, before the formation of its modern tectonic configuration.
Human Rights in Mediation—Undoing a Myth and Exploring a Mutual Opportunity
Authors: Månsson Katarina
Published: December 2023

Drawing on research conducted as part of a UN sabbatical leave programme, this article seeks to challenge a long-standing understanding of human rights and peace mediation as two distinct and often competing areas of work and expertise at opposite ends. By illustrating how human rights analysis and actors have directly contributed to and facilitated mediation efforts, the article demonstrates the inherent problem-solving nature of human rights by putting a spotlight on their role in supporting peace-making efforts by the UN and other entities. The article is based on eight in-depth case studies—from Palestine in 1948 to Colombia in 2016—and close to 60 interviews with present and former senior UN officials, representatives of non-official intermediaries and other experts engaged in mediation and human rights. With a view to better and more consistently applying the inherent potential of human rights in the political work of mediators, it demonstrates how human rights in fact stand ‘at the heart of mediation’ and breaks a prevailing narrow understanding of rights concerned primarily with criminal accountability. In so doing, the article not only fills a gap in academic literature but aims to trigger debate among practitioners and researchers on how human rights experts and mediators can learn from each other’s comparative approaches with a view to designing more sustainable and legitimate peace processes.
Understanding the universal dust attenuation scaling relation of star-forming galaxies
Authors: Qin Jianbo , Zheng Xian Zhong , Wuyts Stijn , Lyu Zongfei , Qiao Man , Huang Jia-Sheng , Liu Feng Shan , Katsianis Antonios , Gonzalez Valentino , Bian Fuyan , Xu Haiguang , Pan Zhizheng , Liu Wenhao , Tan Qing-Hua , An Fang Xia , Shi Dong Dong , Zhang Yuheng , Wen Run , Liu Shuang , Yang Chao
Published: December 2023

Star-forming galaxies (SFGs) adhere to a surprisingly tight scaling relation of dust attenuation parametrized by the infrared excess (IRX≡ LIR/LUV), being jointly determined by the star formation rate (SFR), galaxy size (Re), metallicity (Z/Z⊙), and axial ratio (b/a). We examine how these galaxy parameters determine the effective dust attenuation and give rise to the universal IRX relation, utilizing a simple two-component star-dust geometry model in which dust in the dense and diffuse interstellar medium (ISM) follows exponential mass density profiles, connected with but not necessarily identical to the stellar mass profiles. Meanwhile, empirical relations are adopted to link galaxy properties, including the gas–star formation relation, the dust-to-stellar size relation, as well as the dust-to-gas ratio versus metallicity relation. By fitting a large sample of local SFGs with the model, we obtain the best-fitting model parameters as a function of metallicity, showing that the two-component geometry model is able to successfully reproduce the dependence of IRX on SFR, Re, b/a at given Z/Z⊙, as well as the dependence of power-law indices on metallicity. Moreover, we also retrieve constraints on the model geometry parameters, including the optical depth of birth clouds (BCs), BC-to-total dust mass fraction, BC covering factor of UV-emitting stars, and star-to-total dust disc radius ratio, which all evolve with galaxy metallicity. Finally, a consistent picture of how the star-dust geometry in SFGs evolves with galaxy metallicity is discussed.
Wide post-common envelope binaries containing ultramassive white dwarfs: evidence for efficient envelope ejection in massive asymptotic giant branch stars
Authors: Yamaguchi Natsuko , El-Badry Kareem , Fuller Jim , Latham David W , Cargile Phillip A , Mazeh Tsevi , Shahaf Sahar , Bieryla Allyson , Buchhave Lars A , Hobson Melissa
Published: December 2023

Post-common envelope binaries (PCEBs) containing a white dwarf (WD) and a main-sequence (MS) star can constrain the physics of common envelope evolution and calibrate binary evolution models. Most PCEBs studied to date have short orbital periods (Porb ≲ 1 d), implying relatively inefficient harnessing of binaries’ orbital energy for envelope expulsion. Here, we present follow-up observations of five binaries from 3rd data release of Gaia mission containing solar-type MS stars and probable ultramassive WDs ($M\gtrsim 1.2\ {\rm M}_{\odot}$) with significantly wider orbits than previously known PCEBs, Porb = 18–49 d. The WD masses are much higher than expected for systems formed via stable mass transfer at these periods, and their near-circular orbits suggest partial tidal circularization when the WD progenitors were giants. These properties strongly suggest that the binaries are PCEBs. Forming PCEBs at such wide separations requires highly efficient envelope ejection, and we find that the observed periods can only be explained if a significant fraction of the energy released when the envelope recombines goes into ejecting it. Our one-dimensional stellar models including recombination energy confirm prior predictions that a wide range of PCEB orbital periods, extending up to months or years, can potentially result from Roche lobe overflow of a luminous asymptotic giant branch (AGB) star. This evolutionary scenario may also explain the formation of several wide WD + MS binaries discovered via self-lensing, as well as a significant fraction of post-AGB binaries and barium stars.
Clinical Outcomes of US Adults Hospitalized for COVID-19 and Influenza in the Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network, October 2021–September 2022
Authors: Kojima Noah , Taylor Christopher A , Tenforde Mark W , Ujamaa Dawud , O’Halloran Alissa , Patel Kadam , Chai Shua J , Daily Kirley Pam , Alden Nisha B , Kawasaki Breanna , Meek James , Yousey-Hindes Kimberly , Anderson Evan J , Openo Kyle P , Reeg Libby , Tellez Nunez Val , Lynfield Ruth , Como-Sabetti Kathryn , Ropp Susan L , Shaw Yomei P , Spina Nancy L , Barney Grant , Bushey Sophrena , Popham Kevin , Moran Nancy E , Shiltz Eli , Sutton Melissa , Abdullah Nasreen , Talbot H Keipp , Schaffner William , Chatelain Ryan , Price Andrea , Garg Shikha , Havers Fiona P , Bozio Catherine H
Published: December 2023

Severe outcomes were common among adults hospitalized for COVID-19 or influenza, while the percentage of COVID-19 hospitalizations involving critical care decreased from October 2021 to September 2022. During the Omicron BA.5 period, intensive care unit admission frequency was similar for COVID-19 and influenza, although patients with COVID-19 had a higher frequency of in-hospital death.
Importance of quantifying the number of viral reads in metagenomic sequencing of environmental samples from the Huanan Seafood Market
Authors: Bloom Jesse D
Published: December 2023

In March 2023, the Chinese CDC publicly released raw metagenomic sequencing data for environmental samples collected in early 2020 from the Huanan Seafood Market. Prior to that data release, some scientists had suggested that these samples could be informative for establishing if animals such as raccoon dogs had been infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, no one had analyzed how much SARS-CoV-2 was actually present in the metagenomic sequencing data. After the raw data became available, I fully analyzed the abundance of both viral and animal genetic material in the samples. That analysis, which was published in Virus Evolution, found that the SARS-CoV-2 content of most samples was very low and that the abundance of SARS-CoV-2 was most strongly associated with animals such as largemouth bass that are not plausible candidates for having been infected. Based on these results, I concluded that the metagenomic content of the samples was not informative for determining if any non-human animals in the market had been infected with SARS-CoV-2. One of the authors of an earlier study of these samples, Florence Débarre, recently submitted a response to my paper. Here, I reply in turn to explain why it is important to quantify the abundance of viral material before drawing conclusions from metagenomic sequencing. I also report new analyses of other animal coronaviruses in the samples and show that material from some other animal coronaviruses is much more abundant than SARS-CoV-2 in samples collected on the date when most wildlife stall sampling was performed. I further show that material from some of these animal coronaviruses is associated with the animals they probably infect but that no such association exists for SARS-CoV-2. Overall, these new analyses further emphasize the importance of quantifying the actual amount of viral material in metagenomic samples and underscore why the environmental samples from the Huanan Seafood Market are not informative for determining if any non-human animals were infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Application of the Six-Minute Walk Test in Assessment of the Cardiopulmonary Function of Children With Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Guo Haibin , Zhou Xuan , Li Yanyan , Yang Yuqi , Yu Hong , Li Xin , Yuan Haiyan , Chen Yushan , Feng Yufei , Huang Jiaoling , Du Qing
Published: December 2023

Study Design.

A retrospective observational study.

Objective.

To assess whether the six-minute walk test (6MWT) can predict cardiopulmonary function in children with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) as an alternative to the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET).

Summary of Background Data.

Cardiopulmonary functional impairment in the setting of IS is a common health problem. A simple and convenient assessment method is needed.

Materials and Methods.

We recruited 65 children (eight male, 57 female) aged 10.70 to 14.84 years old with IS. Radiographic characteristics of the cohort were measured, including Risser’s sign and Cobb angle. We measured cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance using both the 6MWT and CPET and their corresponding indicators, including six-minute walking distance (6MWD) and peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2), respectively. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between 6MWT indicators and IS parameters. Linear regression models were used to explore the relationship between 6MWT and CPET response indicators.

Results.

Over a third of the cohort (35.4%) had a Risser’s sign grade of 0, with 21.5% in grade 2 and 3, respectively. The cohort’s mean Cobb angle was 26.02°. 6MWD was significantly positively correlated with Risser’s sign (R=0.258; P=0.038) and change in respiratory rate positively correlated with vertebral rotation (R=0.264; P=0.034). 6MWD positively correlated with peak VO2, peak VO2/heart rate (HR), and metabolic equivalents, and negatively correlated with the ventilation equivalent of the carbon dioxide slope (VE/VCO2 slope) (P<0.05). These four CPET indicators were found to be predicted from 6MWD in the linear regression model (P<0.05).

Conclusions.

CPET response indicators, especially peak VO2, can be predicted using 6MWD, among other factors. The 6MWT can therefore be used to rapidly and efficiently predict the cardiorespiratory tolerance of children with IS.

Level of Evidence.

3.
Risk Factor Analysis of Surgery-related Complications in Primary Thoracic Spine Surgery for Degenerative Diseases and Characteristics of the Patients Also Undergoing Surgery on the Cervical and/or Lumbar Spine
Authors: Takenaka Shota , Kaito Takashi , Fujimori Takahito , Kanie Yuya , Okada Seiji
Published: December 2023

Study Design:

A retrospective cohort study using prospectively collected data.

Objective:

This study primarily aimed to investigate the risk factors for surgery-related complications in primary thoracic spine surgery for degenerative diseases using a surgeon-maintained database. The secondary purpose was to elucidate the characteristics of surgically treated thoracic myelopathy that also required cervical and/or lumbar spine surgery in the study period.

Summary of Background Data:

Few studies reported surgical complications and the feature of tandem spinal stenosis in thoracic myelopathy in detail because of their rarity.

Materials and Methods:

This study included 840 thoracic myelopathy patients undergoing primary surgery for degenerative diseases from 2012 to 2021, investigating the effects of diseases, surgical procedures, and patient demographics on postoperative neurological deterioration, dural tear, dural leakage, surgical-site infection, and postoperative hematoma. In thoracic myelopathy patients who were surgically treated and also undergoing cervical and/or lumbar surgery, we investigated the proportion, the effects of diseases, and the order and intervals between surgeries.

Results:

Multivariate logistic regression revealed that significant risk factors (P<0.05) for postoperative neurological deterioration were intervertebral disk herniation [odds ratio (OR): 4.59, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.32–16.0) and degenerative spondylolisthesis (OR: 11.1, 95% CI: 2.15–57.5). Ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OR: 4.12, 95% CI: 1.92–8.86), anterior spinal fusion (OR: 41.2, 95% CI: 4.70–361), and circumferential decompression via a posterior approach (OR: 30.5, 95% CI: 2.27–410) were risk factors for dural tear. In thoracic myelopathy patients surgically treated, 37.0% also underwent degenerative cervical and/or lumbar surgery.

Conclusions:

Pathologies involving anterior decompression and instability increased the risk of postoperative neurological deterioration. The risk of dural tear was increased when dura mater adhesions were likely to be directly operated upon. It should be recognized that a relatively high proportion (37.0%) of surgically treated thoracic myelopathy patients also underwent cervical and/or lumbar surgery.
Image-Based Assessment of Natural Killer Cell Activity against Glioblastoma Stem Cells
Authors: Du Yuanning , Metcalfe Samuel , Akunapuram Shreya , Richardson Angela M. , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A. , Shen Jia
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) poses a significant challenge in oncology and stands as the most aggressive form of brain cancer. A primary contributor to its relentless nature is the stem-like cancer cells, called glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs). GSCs have the capacity for self-renewal and tumorigenesis, leading to frequent GBM recurrences and complicating treatment modalities. While natural killer (NK) cells exhibit potential in targeting and eliminating stem-like cancer cells, their efficacy within the GBM microenvironment is limited due to constrained infiltration and function. To address this limitation, novel investigations focusing on boosting NK cell activity against GSCs are imperative. This study presents two streamlined image-based assays assessing NK cell migration and cytotoxicity towards GSCs. It details protocols and explores the strengths and limitations of these methods. These assays could aid in identifying novel targets to enhance NK cell activity towards GSCs, facilitating the development of NK cell-based immunotherapy for improved GBM treatment.
Augmented gut hormone response to feeding in older adults exhibiting low appetite
Authors: Dagbasi Aygul , Warner Jordan , Catterall Victoria , Crabtree Daniel R , Carroll Bernadette , Frost Gary , Holliday Adrian
Published: December 2023

Age-related changes in gut hormones may play a role in anorexia of ageing. The aim of this study was to determine concentrations of ghrelin, PYY, and GLP-1 in older adults exhibiting an anorexia of ageing phenotype. Thirteen older adults with healthy appetite (OA-HA; 8f, 75±7 years, 26.0±3.2 kg·m-2), fifteen older adults with low appetite (OA-LA; 10f, 72±7 years, 23.6±3.1 kg·m-2), and twelve young adults (YA; 6f, 22±2 years, 24.4±2.0 kg·m-2) completed the study. Healthy appetite and low appetite were determined based on BMI, habitual energy intake, self-reported appetite, and laboratory-assessedad libitumlunch intake. Participants provided a fasted measure of subjective appetite and blood sample (0 minutes) before consuming a standardised breakfast (450 kcal). Appetite was measured every 30 minutes for 240 minutes and blood was sampled at 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 and 240 minutes. At 240 minutes, anad libitumlunch meal was consumed. Relative energy intake at lunch (expressed as percentage of estimated total energy requirement) was lower for OA-LA (19.8±7.7%) compared with YA (41.5±9.2%,p<0.001) and OA-HA (37.3±10.0%,p<0.001). Ghrelin suppression was greater for OA-LA than YA at 90 minutes (−512±477 pg·mL-1vs. 174±182 pg·mL-1,p=0.045)and 180 minutes (−502±147 pg·mL-1vs. −208±202 pg·mL-1,p=0.049), and lower than OA-HA at 60 minutes (−447±447 pg·mL-1vs. −125±169 pg·mL-1,p=0.039). GLP-1 concentration was higher for OA-LA compared with YA at 180 minutes (5.00±4.71 pM vs. 1.07±2.83 pM,p=0.040). Net AUC for PYY response to feeding was greater for OA-LA compared with OA-HA (p=0.052). No differences were seen in subjective appetite. These observations in older adults exhibiting an anorexia of ageing phenotype suggest augmented anorexigenic responses of gut hormones to feeding may be causal mechanisms of anorexia of ageing.
Dispersal and evolution of the invasive snailPomacea canaliculata, an intermediate host ofAngiostrongylus cantonensis: A field study around its initial introduction site in China
Authors: Luo Du , Zhang Haitao , Gu Dangen , Mu Xidong , Song Hongmei , Yang Yexin , Xu Meng , Luo Jianren , Hu Yinchang
Published: December 2023

Eosinophilic meningitis caused byAngiostrongylus cantonensisis an emerging infectious disease in mainland China. The invasive snail (Pomacea canaliculata) is one of the main intermediate host of the zoonotic nematode. To gain insights into the spatial distribution, phenotypic variation and dispersal pattern of the snail populations. A field survey was conducted using modified nested sampling and selecting ditches as the main habitats. Snail distribution and abundance were displayed with predictions based on an inverse distance-weighted model. Correlation and spatial autocorrelation were analyzed among the measured parameters. The findings of this study demonstrate the well-established and abundant presence ofP. canaliculatain ditches. A total of 564 sampling sites were assessed, with measurements taken on 10,145 snails having shell heights greater than 1.5 cm. The average population density was determined to be 20.31 ± 11.55 snails per square meter. Morphological analysis revealed an average snail body mass of 8.93 ± 3.95 g, shell height of 3.38 ± 0.66 cm, a sex ratio of 2.39 ± 1.01 female to male, and a shell color ratio of 9.34 ± 7.52 brown to yellow. Among these measurements, body mass was found to be significantly correlated with shell height (r= 0.88,p< 0.01) and shell color (r= 0.55,p< 0.05). Spatial-correlation analysis proved that shell height was the only factor significantly spatially autocorrelated (MI= 0.27,z= 2.20,p= 0.03), although weak autocorrelations appeared in body mass and shell color. The observed geographic variations of phenotypic traits indicated a human-mediated evolving process of the snail populations and a potential complexity of the parasite transmission system. These findings may enhance the assessment of the epidemiological health risk posed by angiostrongyliasis and inform strategies for controlling infectious snails.
Resource integration and firm performance through organizational capabilities for digital transformation
Authors: Hsiao Ming-Hsiung
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Digital transformation is a foundational change in how firms operate and deliver value to customers by using digital technologies to create new business opportunities. The purpose of this study is to offer a conceptual framework by reorganizing the elements of digital transformation, including resources, technology, capabilities and performance, into a workable process and investigating how firms integrate these resources, build new capabilities and transform them into enhanced performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This framework builds three blocks: resource integration, organizational capabilities and outcomes, exploring the impact of resource integration on outcomes through organizational capabilities. For resource integration, this study adopts a resource-based view (RBV) and service-dominant logic (SDL) to integrate organizational resources, including information technology (IT)-based resources, which play a role in moderating the effect of resource integration. Moreover, the author argues that firms’ capabilities have two levels: higher-order capabilities and lower-order capabilities, which will convert these resources through the capabilities into organizational performance.

Findings

This framework is built to understand the process of digital transformation and its antecedents for firms’ performance in business environments. Drawing on RBV, it provides a more holistic perspective that has been linked to resource integration, organizational capabilities and outcomes at the firm level. In this way, the theoretical basis for diminishing implicitness associated with the current perspective of digital transformation can be strengthened.

Originality/value

This paper offers a coherent discussion of digital transformation and explains the process of digital transformation, thus advancing prior work. The major contribution is connecting the process of digital transformation through which firms integrate resources, i.e. digital technologies and valuable, rare, inimitable and nonsubstitutable (VRIN) and nonVRIN resources as well, to build organizational dynamic capabilities based on RBV and SDL.
Does social capital promote sustainable livelihood? Mediating effect of women entrepreneurship
Authors: Mahato Jogeswar , Jha Manish Kumar
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The present study investigates the role of social capital in promoting sustainable livelihood amongst indigenous women in India. The study further analyses the mediation effect of women entrepreneurship between social capital and livelihood promotion.

Design/methodology/approach

Structure equation modeling has been used to empirically examine the effect of social capital in promoting sustainable livelihood. The study has collected 612 samples from indigenous women entrepreneurs across Sundargarh and Koraput districts in Odisha.

Findings

The result highlighted the extensiveness of indigenous women entrepreneurs, who utilized their social capital to improve enterprise performance and livelihood conditions. It is witnessed that social capital has a direct and positive effect on uplifting the living standards of indigenous women. Furthermore, women entrepreneurship mediates the relationship between social capital and livelihood promotion of indigenous women.

Practical implications

The decision-makers, policy practitioners and government agencies must encourage more women's self-help groups to participate in entrepreneurial activities by utilizing social capital through government welfare programs.

Originality/value

The present study adds value to the existing literature on social capital, women entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihood by measuring the importance of social capital in achieving sustainable livelihood. This study will add knowledge to the existing theories and literature of social capital on its use and importance towards the benefit of society.
Assessing item fairness in students' evaluation of teaching based on students' academic college using measurement invariance analysis
Authors: AlQuraan Mahmoud
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims at assessing item fairness in students' evaluation of teaching based on students' academic college using measurement invariance analysis (MI).

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of this study consists of 17,270 undergraduate students from 12 different academic colleges. SET survey consists of 20 Likert-type items distributed to four factors: planning, instruction, management and assessment was used to collect the data. The Lavaan R package with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to evaluate measurement invariance (MI). Four models of CFA were investigated and assessed: the configural model, the metric model, the scalar model and the residual invariance model. ANOVA was used to test the differences in SET according to academic colleges.

Findings

MI analysis showed that the four levels of MI models are supported. ANOVA test showed that means of SET total scores are statistically different according to students' academic colleges. College of “Education” has the highest SET mean (88.64 out of 100), and all the differences between the College of Education’s SET mean and other colleges' SET means are statistically significant.

Practical implications

The study recommends that higher education institutions test the MI of SET according to academic colleges and then use colleges with the highest SET at the university level as internal benchmarking to develop and enhance their teaching practices.

Originality/value

This study is probably the only study that tested MI according to students' colleges before testing the differences between colleges in SET. If MI is not supported, then the comparisons between academic colleges are not applicable.
Rheological model of cement-based material slurry with different water-cement ratio and temperature
Authors: Dong Hongjing , Chen Xi , Yang Guangying , He Dandan , Dai Ying , He Pengfei
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to obtain a constitutive model of cement-based material in the rheological stage, which owns the different water-cement ratio (w/c) and temperature and have a significant impact on the workability of concrete materials.

Design/methodology/approach

It is introduced a modified Arrhenius equation into the Herschel–Bulkley model, which is widely applied in rheological analysis and constructed an ordinary differential equation (ODE) of w/c from the Navier–Stokes equation. By solving the ODE, an approximate constitutive relation of cement-based materials included w/c and temperature is derived. Compared with the experimental results, the present model is validated.

Findings

The shear stress and shear rate curves with different w/c and temperature are simulated by the present method, and the present model can be applied to analyze the changes of apparent viscosity in cement-based material slurry as the w/c and temperature varying.

Originality/value

This work gives a mathematical model, which can effectively approximate the shear stress–shear rate relation with different w/c and temperature in the rheological stage of cement-based material.
Assessing physical fit examinations of stabbed and torn textiles through a large dataset of casework‐like items and interlaboratory studies
Authors: Andrews Zachary , Prusinowski Meghan , Nguyen Evie , Neumann Cedric , Trejos Tatiana
Published: December 2023

Several organizations have outlined the need for standardized methods for conducting physical fit comparisons. This study answers this call by developing and evaluating a systematic and transparent approach for examining, documenting, and interpreting textile physical fits, using qualitative feature descriptors and a quantitative metric (Edge Similarity Score, ESS) for the physical fit examination of textile materials. Here, the results from 1027 textile physical fit comparisons are reported. This includes the evaluation of inter and intraanalyst variation when using this method for hand‐torn and stabbed fabrics. ESS higher than 80% and ESS lower than 20%, respectively, support fit and nonfit conclusions. The results show that analyst accuracy ranges from 88% to 100% when using this criterion. The estimated false‐positive rate for this dataset (2% false positives, 10 of 477 true nonfit pairs) demonstrates the importance of assessing the quality of a physical fit during an examination and reveals that potential errors are low, but possible in textile physical fit examinations. The risk of error must be accounted for in the interpretation and verification processes. Further analysis shows that factors such as the separation method, construction, and design of the samples do not substantially influence the ESS values. Additionally, the proposed method is independently evaluated by 15 practitioners in an interlaboratory exercise that demonstrates satisfactory reproducibility between participants. The standardized terminology and documentation criteria are the first steps toward validating approaches to streamline the peer review process, minimize bias and subjectivity, and convey the probative value of the evidence.
Efficacy test for intermittent theta burst stimulation during motor rehabilitation in patients post‐stroke in a tertiary centre in Hong Kong
Authors: Leung Hiu Ming , Yuen Ming Him , Mak Calvin Hoi Kwan , Poon Tak Lap , Cheung Fung Ching , Luk Helen Ka Yan , Chee Bryan Swee Haw
Published: December 2023

Aim

Stroke represents a significant cause of long‐term disability in adults. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non‐invasive brain stimulation method known for its potential to enhance motor recovery. Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), a standardised rTMS protocol initially utilised in patients with depression, has garnered attention in the realm of stroke rehabilitation. This study seeks to establish the efficacy profile of iTBS in motor rehabilitation for patients with subacute or chronic stroke.

Patients and methods

This study is a prospective cohort trial in which eligible patients with stroke were recruited into the iTBS group. Ten sessions of iTBS were conducted, followed by physiotherapy. An equal number of matched controls were recruited into the conventional physiotherapy group. The differences in various scoring systems related to motor performance at 6 months were analysed using independent two‐sample t test.

Results

Forty patients were enrolled in the study. At 6 months, iTBS demonstrated a statistically significant improvement compared with conventional physiotherapy across various scoring systems, including motor power grading (47.4% vs 0%, P < .0001), Upper Extremity Fugl–Meyer Assessment (19.8% vs 0.7%, P < .0001), Box and Block Test (25.6% vs 1.7%, P = .007) and Barthel Index (17.8% vs 0.1%, P = .0002). No major adverse events were reported in the iTBS group at 6 months.

Conclusion

iTBS resulted in significant improvement in motor performance across various domains at 6 months compared with conventional physiotherapy alone. This method proves to be a safe approach for motor rehabilitation.
Diabetic neuropathy: A NRF2 disease?
Authors: Neagu Monica , Constantin Carolina , Surcel Mihaela , Munteanu Adriana , Scheau Cristian , Savulescu‐Fiedler Ilinca , Caruntu Constantin
Published: December 2023

The transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2) has multifarious action with its target genes having redox‐regulating functions and being involved in inflammation control, proteostasis, autophagy, and metabolic pathways. Therefore, the genes controlled by NRF2 are involved in the pathogenesis of myriad diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. Amidst this large array of diseases, diabetic neuropathy (DN) occurs in half of patients diagnosed with diabetes and appears as an injury inflicted upon peripheral and autonomic nervous systems. As a complex effector factor, NRF2 has entered the spotlight during the search of new biomarkers and/or new therapy targets in DN. Due to the growing attention for NRF2 as a modulating factor in several diseases, including DN, this paper aims to update the recently discovered regulatory pathways of NRF2 in oxidative stress, inflammation and immunity. It presents the animal models that further facilitated the human studies in regard to NRF2 modulation and the possibilities of using NRF2 as DN biomarker and/or as target therapy.

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Uncertainty propagation in matrix population models: Gaps, importance and guidelines
Authors: Simmonds Emily G. , Jones Owen R.
Published: December 2023

Matrix population models (MPMs), which describe the demographic behaviour of a population based on age or stage through discrete time, are popular in ecology, evolutionary biology and conservation biology. MPMs provide a tool for guiding management decisions and can give insight into life history trade‐offs, patterns of senescence, transient dynamics and population trajectories. These models are parameterised with estimates of demographic rates (e.g. survival and reproduction) and can have multiple layers of underlying statistical analyses, all of which introduce uncertainty. For accurate and transparent results, this uncertainty should be propagated through to quantities derived from the MPMs, such as population growth rates (λ). However, full propagation is not always achieved, leading to omitted uncertainty and negative consequences for the reliability of inferences drawn.

We summarised the contemporary standards regarding demographic rate uncertainty reporting and propagation, by reviewing papers using MPMs from 2010 to 2019. We then used reported uncertainties as the basis for a simulation study to explore the impact of uncertainty omission on inferences drawn from the analysis of MPMs. We simulated four scenarios of demographic rate propagation and evaluated their impact on population growth rate estimates.

Although around 78% of MPM papers report some kind of uncertainty in their findings, only half of those report uncertainty in all aspects. Additionally, only 31% of papers fully propagate uncertainty through to derived quantities. Our simulations demonstrate that, even with moderate levels of uncertainty, incomplete propagation introduces bias. Omitting uncertainty may substantially alter conclusions, particularly for results showing small changes in population size. Biased conclusions were most common when uncertainty in the most influential demographic rates for population growth were omitted.

We suggest comprehensive guidelines for reporting and propagating uncertainty in MPMs. Standardising methods and reporting will increase the reliability of MPMs and enhance the comparability of different models. These guidelines will improve the accuracy, transparency and reliability of population projections, increasing our confidence in results that can inform conservation efforts, ultimately contributing to biodiversity preservation.
bistro: An R package for vector bloodmeal identification by short tandem repeat overlap
Authors: Lapp Zena , Abel Lucy , Mangeni Judith , Obala Andrew A. , O'Meara Wendy P. , Taylor Steve M. , Markwalter Christine F.
Published: December 2023

Measuring vector–human contact in a natural setting can inform precise targeting of interventions to interrupt transmission of vector‐borne diseases. One approach is to directly match human DNA in vector bloodmeals to the individuals who were bitten using genotype panels of discriminative short tandem repeats (STRs). Existing methods for matching STR profiles in bloodmeals to the people bitten preclude the ability to match most incomplete profiles and multisource bloodmeals to bitten individuals.

We developed bistro, an R package that implements three pre‐existing STR matching methods as well as the package's namesake, bistro, a new algorithm described here. bistro employs forensic analysis methods to calculate likelihood ratios and match human STR profiles in bloodmeals to people using a dynamic threshold. We evaluated the algorithm's accuracy and compared it to existing matching approaches using a publicly available panel of 188 single‐source and 100 multisource samples containing DNA from 50 known human sources. Then, we applied it to match 777 newly field‐collected mosquito bloodmeals to a database of 645 people.

The R package implements four STR matching algorithms in user‐friendly functions with clear documentation. bistro correctly matched 99% (187/188) of profiles in single‐source samples, and 62% (224/359) of profiles from multisource samples, resulting in a sensitivity of 0.75 (vs. <0.51 for other algorithms). The specificity of bistro was 0.9998 (vs. 1 for other algorithms). Furthermore, bistro identified 79% (720/906) of all possible matches for field‐derived mosquitoes, yielding 1.4× more matches than existing algorithms.

bistro identifies more correct bloodmeal–human matches than existing approaches, enabling more accurate and robust analyses of vector–human contact in natural settings. The bistro R package and corresponding documentation allow for straightforward uptake of this algorithm by others.
Review article: Advances in the management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Alali Ali A. , Almadi Majid A. , Barkun Alan N.
Published: December 2023

Background

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a common emergency with substantial associated morbidity and mortality. Elective colonoscopy plays an essential role in management, with an even more important role for radiology in the acute setting. Recent advances in the management of patients with LGIB warrant review as the management has recently evolved.

Aims

To provide a comprehensive and updated overview of advances in the approach to patients with LGIB

Methods

We performed a comprehensive literature search to examine the current data for this narrative review supplemented by expert opinion.

Results

The incidence of LGIB is increasing worldwide, partly related to an ageing population and the increasing use of antithrombotics. Diverticulosis continues to be the most common aetiology of LGIB. Pre‐endoscopic risk stratification tools, especially the Oakland score, can aid appropriate patient triage. Adequate resuscitation continues to form the basis of management, while appropriate management of antithrombotics is crucial to balance the risk of worsening bleeding against increased cardiovascular risk. Radiological imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis and treatment of acute LGIB, especially among unstable patients. Colonoscopy remains the gold‐standard test for the elective management of stable patients.

Conclusions

The management of LGIB has evolved significantly in recent years, with a shift towards radiological interventions for unstable patients while reserving elective colonoscopy for stable patients. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to optimise the outcomes of patients with LGIB.
Drivers of variation in postpartum opioid prescribing across hospitals participating in a statewide maternity care quality collaborative
Authors: Peahl Alex F. , Low Lisa Kane , Langen Elizabeth S. , Moniz Michelle H. , Aaron Bryan , Hu Hsou Mei , Waljee Jennifer , Townsel Courtney
Published: December 2023

Background

We describe variation in postpartum opioid prescribing across a statewide quality collaborative and assess the proportion due to practitioner and hospital characteristics.

Methods

We assessed postpartum prescribing data from nulliparous, term, singleton, vertex births between January 2020 and June 2021 included in the clinical registry of a statewide obstetric quality collaborative funded by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Mixed effect logistic regression and linear models adjusted for patient characteristics and assessed practitioner‐ and hospital‐level predictors of receiving a postpartum opioid prescription and prescription size. Relative contributions of practitioner and hospital characteristics were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results

Of 40,589 patients birthing at 68 hospitals, 3.0% (872/29,412) received an opioid prescription after vaginal birth and 87.8% (9812/11,177) received one after cesarean birth, with high variation across hospitals. In adjusted models, the strongest patient‐level predictors of receiving a prescription were cesarean birth (aOR 899.1, 95% CI 752.8–1066.7) and third−/fourth‐degree perineal laceration (aOR 25.7, 95% CI 17.4–37.9). Receiving care from a certified nurse‐midwife (aOR 0.63, 95% CI 0.48–0.82) or family medicine physician (aOR 0.60, 95%CI 0.39–0.91) was associated with lower prescribing rates. Hospital‐level predictors included receiving care at hospitals with <500 annual births (aOR 4.07, 95% CI 1.61–15.0). A positive safety culture was associated with lower prescribing rates (aOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.15–0.88). Much of the variation in postpartum prescribing was attributable to practitioners and hospitals (prescription receipt: practitioners 25.1%, hospitals 12.1%; prescription size: practitioners 5.4%, hospitals: 52.2%).

Discussion

Variation in postpartum opioid prescribing after birth is high and driven largely by practitioner‐ and hospital‐level factors. Opioid stewardship efforts targeted at both the practitioner and hospital level may be effective for reducing opioid prescribing harms.
Anti‐PL‐7, anti‐Ro/SSA, anti‐Mi‐2, and anti‐TIF1‐γ correlate with specific patterns of histopathologic features in dermatomyositis: An analysis of 39 skin biopsy specimens from 25 patients
Authors: Bennett Raven , Bradley Katherine , Stevanovic Mirjana , McFadden Jason R. , Chaudhari Advaita S. , Ramos‐Rodriguez Alvaro J. , Yan Shaofeng , Momtahen Shabnam , LeBlanc Robert E. , Cloutier Jeffrey M. , Salem Iman , Grand David G. , Hodson Emma L. , Sriharan Aravindhan
Published: December 2023

Background

In dermatomyositis (DM), myositis‐specific and myositis‐associated antibodies have been correlated with clinical features. It is unknown if histopathologic findings in lesional skin biopsies correlate with serologic subtypes of DM.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients with DM was performed. Patients with myositis antibodies and DM lesional skin biopsies were included in the study. Skin biopsies were reviewed by blinded dermatopathologists for 20 histopathologic features.

Results

There was a statistically significant (p < 0.05) association between anti‐PL‐7 serology and decreased degree of vacuolar degeneration, necrotic keratinocytes, and thickening of the epidermal basement membrane. Anti‐aminoacyl tRNA synthetase (anti‐ARS) antibodies had the same significant negative association with degree of vacuolar degeneration, necrotic keratinocytes, and thickening of the epidermal basement membrane. A similar pattern was seen with an anti‐cytoplasmic serology; where there was a significant association with an increased degree of vacuolar degeneration and necrotic keratinocytes, and a nonsignificant trend of minimally thickened epidermal basement membrane. There was a statistically significant association between anti‐Ro/SSA serology and increased degree of vacuolar degeneration. Anti‐TIF1‐γ serology was significantly associated with the increased presence of necrotic keratinocytes and pigment incontinence, and displayed a pattern of increased neutrophils. There was a significant association between anti‐Mi‐2 antibodies and pigment incontinence, as well as between myositis‐specific antibodies and pigment incontinence. A statistically significant positive association was found between nuclear antibodies and degree of vacuolar degeneration, thickened epidermal basement membrane, pigment incontinence, and epidermal atrophy.

Conclusion

In patients with DM, some specific serotypes, including anti‐PL‐7, anti‐Ro/SSA, anti‐Mi‐2, and anti‐TIF1‐γ, may have characteristic histopathologic features.
The Coastal Carbon Library and Atlas: Open source soil data and tools supporting blue carbon research and policy
Authors: Holmquist James R. , Klinges David , Lonneman Michael , Wolfe Jaxine , Boyd Brandon , Eagle Meagan , Sanderman Jonathan , Todd‐Brown Kathe , Belshe E. Fay , Brown Lauren N. , Chapman Samantha , Corstanje Ron , Janousek Christopher , Morris James T. , Noe Gregory , Rovai André , Spivak Amanda , Vahsen Megan , Windham‐Myers Lisamarie , Kroeger Kevin , Megonigal J. Patrick
Published: December 2023

Quantifying carbon fluxes into and out of coastal soils is critical to meeting greenhouse gas reduction and coastal resiliency goals. Numerous ‘blue carbon’ studies have generated, or benefitted from, synthetic datasets. However, the community those efforts inspired does not have a centralized, standardized database of disaggregated data used to estimate carbon stocks and fluxes. In this paper, we describe a data structure designed to standardize data reporting, maximize reuse, and maintain a chain of credit from synthesis to original source. We introduce version 1.0.0. of the Coastal Carbon Library, a global database of 6723 soil profiles representing blue carbon‐storing systems including marshes, mangroves, tidal freshwater forests, and seagrasses. We also present the Coastal Carbon Atlas, an R‐shiny application that can be used to visualize, query, and download portions of the Coastal Carbon Library. The majority (4815) of entries in the database can be used for carbon stock assessments without the need for interpolating missing soil variables, 533 are available for estimating carbon burial rate, and 326 are useful for fitting dynamic soil formation models. Organic matter density significantly varied by habitat with tidal freshwater forests having the highest density, and seagrasses having the lowest. Future work could involve expansion of the synthesis to include more deep stock assessments, increasing the representation of data outside of the U.S., and increasing the amount of data available for mangroves and seagrasses, especially carbon burial rate data. We present proposed best practices for blue carbon data including an emphasis on disaggregation, data publication, dataset documentation, and use of standardized vocabulary and templates whenever appropriate. To conclude, the Coastal Carbon Library and Atlas serve as a general example of a grassroots F.A.I.R. (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data effort demonstrating how data producers can coordinate to develop tools relevant to policy and decision‐making.