bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bedrock rivers are steep but not narrow: Hydrological and lithological controls on river geometry across the USA
Authors: Buckley James , Hodge Rebecca A. , Slater Louise J.
Published: March 2024

Bedrock rivers are commonly expected to have steeper and narrower channels than alluvial rivers. However, understanding of bedrock river characteristics has largely been based on small samples of sites in specific climates and upland locations. We provide the first systematic assessment of bedrock and alluvial river channel characteristics for 1274 sites across a broad climatic gradient. We assess whether the width, width-to-depth ratio, and slope of bedrock channels differ from those of alluvial channels and the extent to which these differences are correlated with drainage area, mean annual flow (QMAF), grain size, and lithology. We find that bedrock channels occur at all drainage areas. For the same drainage area, bedrock channels are wider and steeper than alluvial channels. They also have a higher mean annual precipitation and hence QMAF, which likely causes the increased width. After accounting for differences in QMAF, both bedrock and alluvial channels have similar hydraulic scaling. Lithology affects both types of channels in a similar way, with channels on sedimentary lithologies being wider and less steep compared to those on igneous-metamorphic lithologies. Overall, our findings raise new questions about the evolution of bedrock river channels and pave the way for more accurate landscape evolution modeling.
Supplemental Material: Formational stages of natural fractures revealed by U-Pb dating and C-O-Sr-Nd isotopes of dolomites in the Ediacaran Dengying Formation, Sichuan Basin, southwest China
Authors: Zhang Chen , Wen Huaguo , et al.
Published: March 2024

Figure S1: Early Cambrian maximum and minimum principal stresses and shear stress in the Deng IV Member in the Gaoshiti-Moxi block, Sichuan Basin. Figure S2: Late Silurian maximum and minimum principal stress and shear stress in the Deng IV Member of the Gaoshiti-Moxi block, Sichuan Basin. Figure S3: Late Permian maximum and minimum principal stresses and shear stress in the Deng IV Member in the Gaoshiti-Moxi block, Sichuan Basin. Table S1: Fluid inclusions from dolomite fillings from the Deng IV Member, Gaoshiti-Moxi block, Sichuan Basin. Table S2: Rare earth elements in dolomite from the Deng IV Member, Gaoshiti-Moxi block, Sichuan Basin. Table S3: Sr-Nd-C-O isotopic compositions of dolomite from the Deng IV Member, Gaoshiti-Moxi block, Sichuan Basin. Table S4: U-Pb analytical results of dolomite from the Deng IV Member, Gaoshiti-Moxi block, Sichuan Basin. 
Salmonella entericaserotype Choleraesuis: a rare pathogen isolated from perianal abscess
Authors: Tamilselvan Priyadharsini , Poulose Tracy Rosalin , Appalaraju Boppe , Sriramajayam Lavanya
Published: March 2024

Infections with non-typhoidal salmonella (NTS) most commonly cause localised infections such as cutaneous abscesses in humans and are a leading source of foodborne illness. Here, we present a unique case of NTS Choleraesuis in a perianal abscess in an immunocompetent patient without any comorbidities.

A woman in her late 40s was diagnosed with a perianal abscess with an unknown origin of infection. The patient has undergone an incision and drainage. Her pus culture and sensitivity report yieldedSalmonella entericaserotype Choleraesuis. Then, the patient recovered after treatment with intravenous antibiotics and supportive treatment.

We present an unusual case ofS. entericaserotype Choleraesuis, which is rarely reported as a causative agent of perianal abscess in India. This case has been reported for its rarity in India.
Pruritus in primary biliary cholangitis is under-recorded in patient medical records
Authors: Gungabissoon Usha , Smith Helen T , von Maltzahn Robyn , Logie John , Fairburn-Beech Jolyon , Ma Liyuan , P Dhirishiya , McGirr Ashleigh , Hunnicutt Jake N , Rowe Christopher L , Tierney Meghan , Friedler Haley S
Published: March 2024

Objective

Cholestatic pruritus in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) reduces patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Despite this, existing research suggests that pruritus is under-recorded in patients’ health records. This study assessed the extent to which pruritus was recorded in medical records of patients with PBC as compared with patient-reported pruritus, and whether patients reporting mild itch were less likely to have pruritus recorded. We also evaluated clinico-demographic characteristics and HRQoL of patients with medical record-documented and patient-reported pruritus.

Design

This cross-sectional study used clinical information abstracted from medical records, together with patient-reported (PBC-40) data from patients with PBC in the USA enrolled in the PicnicHealth cohort. Medical record-documented pruritus was classified as ‘recent’ (at, or within 12 months prior to, enrolment) or ‘ever’ (at, or any point prior to, enrolment). Patient-reported pruritus (4-week recall) was assessed using the first PBC-40 questionnaire completed on/after enrolment; pruritus severity was classified by itch domain score (any severity: ≥1; clinically significant itch: ≥7). Patient clinico-demographic characteristics and PBC-40 domain scores were described in patients with medical record-documented and patient-reported pruritus; overlap between groups was evaluated. Descriptive statistics were reported.

Results

Pruritus of any severity was self-reported by 200/225 (88.9%) patients enrolled; however, only 88/225 (39.1%) had recent medical record-documented pruritus. Clinically significant pruritus was self-reported by 120/225 (53.3%) patients; of these, 64/120 (53.3%) had recent medical record-documented pruritus. Patients reporting clinically significant pruritus appeared to have higher mean scores across PBC-40 domains (indicating reduced HRQoL), versus patients with no/mild patient-reported pruritus or medical-record documented pruritus.

Conclusion

Compared with patient-reported measures, pruritus in PBC is under-recorded in medical records and is associated with lower HRQoL. Research based only on medical records underestimates the true burden of pruritus, meaning physicians may be unaware of the extent and impact of pruritus, leading to potential undertreatment.
Population-based survey of the prevalence and types of glaucoma in Bangladesh
Authors: Mannaf Sheikh M A , Islam Md Shafiqul , Islam M Nazrul , Rahman Md Mizanur , Parvin Salma , Rahman Siddiqur , Sarker Bipul Kumer De
Published: March 2024

Background

To delineate the epidemiological landscape of glaucoma using a population-based sample representative of Bangladesh.

Methods

Using multistage stratified cluster random sampling, households were selected to identify individuals ≥35 years across all 8 divisions of Bangladesh. Sampling frames were derived from the 2011 national census. Fifty-eight study examination sites were set up for comprehensive eye evaluations, including intraocular pressure, gonioscopy and visual field testing when indicated. International Society for Geographic and Epidemiological Ophthalmology definitions were used to define glaucoma and glaucoma suspect cases.

Results

One hundred forty clusters (89 rural and 51 urban) were randomly selected, and 13 791 residential households were visited. We invited 17 002 individuals ≥35 years for on-site examination, of which 12 000 (71%) complied, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1. The prevalence of glaucoma was 3.2% (95% CI 2.79% to 3.64%), and glaucoma suspect was 10.1% (95% CI 9.05% to 11.12%). The majority (78%) had primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), while angle closure was seen in 16%. Of the POAG, 83% (n=251) were normal-tension glaucoma. Multivariable logistic regression showed increasing age (OR=1.01 for every 5-year increment, 95% CI 1 to 1.01) and male gender (OR=1.43, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.77) to be associated with an increased risk of glaucoma.

Conclusions

The prevalence of glaucoma in Bangladesh is 3.2% in ≥35-year-old individuals with older men most at risk. Extrapolating the results, we estimate about 2 million patients with glaucoma. Though normal-tension variety was the most common type, caution should be exercised in generalising these results to other populations.
Safety and efficacy of SNK01 (autologous natural killer cells) in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy and/or cetuximab after failure of prior tyrosine kinase inhibitor in non-small cell lung cancer: non-clinical mouse model and phase I/IIa clinical study
Authors: Choi Myeong Geun , Son Gun Woo , Choi Mi Young , Jung Jae Seob , Rho Jin Kyung , Ji Wonjun , Yoon Byeong Gon , Jo Jong-Min , Kim Yong Man , Ko Dae-Hyun , Lee Jae Cheol , Choi Chang-Min
Published: March 2024

Background

Choosing treatments for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with osimertinib resistance is challenging. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of SNK01 (autologous natural killer (NK) cells) in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy and/or cetuximab (an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody) in treating EGFR-mutated NSCLC in this non-clinical and phase I/IIa clinical trial.

Methods

We developed a cell line-derived xenograft-humanized mouse model with an osimertinib-resistant lung cancer cell line. The mice were divided into four groups based on treatment (no treatment, cetuximab, SNK01, and combination groups) and treated weekly for 5 weeks. In the clinical study, 12 patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC who failed prior tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) received SNK01 weekly in combination with gemcitabine/carboplatin (n=6) or cetuximab/gemcitabine/carboplatin (n=6) and dose escalation of SNK01 following the “3+3” design.

Results

In the non-clinical study, an increase in NK cells in the blood and enhanced NK cell tumor infiltration were observed in the SNK01 group. The volume of tumor extracted after treatment was the smallest in the combination group. In the clinical study, 12 patients (median age, 60.9 years; all adenocarcinoma cases) received SNK01 weekly for 7–8 weeks (4×109cells/dose (n=6); 6×109cells/dose (n=6)). The maximum feasible dose of SNK01 was 6×109cells/dose without dose-limiting toxicity. Efficacy outcomes showed an objective response rate of 25%, disease control rate of 100%, and median progression-free survival of 143 days.

Conclusion

SNK01 in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy, including cetuximab, for EGFR-mutated NSCLC with TKI resistance was safe and exerted a potential antitumor effect.

Trial registration number

NCT04872634.
Combined effect of ASPECTS and age on outcome of patients with large core infarction treated with mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Li Zibao , Li Linyu , Peng Zhouzhou , Zhao Shoucai , Huang Xianjun , Fan Shitao , Xu Xu , Ma Jinfu , Yue Chengsong , Yu Nizhen , Guo Changwei , Yang Jie
Published: March 2024

Background

Despite the remarkable effectiveness of endovascular treatment (EVT), recent randomized controlled trials indicate that up to half of patients with large core infarction have a very poor outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 5–6 at 90 days). This study investigates the combined effect of Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) and age on very poor outcome in patients with large core infarction treated with EVT.

Methods

This subanalysis of the MAGIC registry, which is a prospective, multicenter cohort study of early treatment in acute stroke, focused on patients with ASPECTS ≤5 presenting within 24 hours of stroke onset and receiving CT followed by EVT from November 1, 2021 to February 8, 2023. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the independent and joint association of ASPECTS and age with very poor outcome.

Results

Among the 490 patients (57.3% men; median (IQR) age 69 (59–78) years), very poor outcome occurred more frequently in those with lower ASPECTS (65.2% in ASPECTS 0–2 vs 43.4% in ASPECTS 3–5; P<0.001). The predictive value of successful recanalization for very poor outcome was significant in patients with ASPECTS 3–5 (P=0.010), but it diminished in those with ASPECTS 0–2 (P=0.547). Compared with patients with ASPECTS 3–5 and age ≤69 years, the risk of a very poor outcome increased incrementally in those with lower ASPECTS, advanced age, or both (P<0.05). Graphical plot analysis showed a significantly lower probability of very poor outcome in younger patients (≤69 years) compared with older patients (>69 years) across all ASPECTS points.

Conclusion

These findings suggest prioritizing young patients as candidates for EVT in those with ASPECTS 0–2.
Effectiveness of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation versus natalizumab in progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Kalincik Tomas , Sharmin Sifat , Roos Izanne , Massey Jennifer , Sutton Ian , Withers Barbara , Freedman Mark S , Atkins Harold , Krasulova Eva , Kubala Havrdova Eva , Trneny Marek , Kozak Tomas , Burman Joachim , Macdonell Richard , Torkildsen Øivind , Bø Lars , Lehmann Anne Kristine , Sharrack Basil , Snowden John
Published: March 2024

Background

Natalizumab was not shown to modify disability in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). This matched observational study compared the effectiveness of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) with natalizumab in progressive MS.

Methods

Patients with primary/secondary progressive MS from seven AHSCT MS centres and the MSBase registry, treated with AHSCT or natalizumab, were matched on a propensity score derived from sex, age, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), number of relapses 12/24 months before baseline, time from MS onset, the most effective prior therapy and country. The pairwise-censored groups were compared on hazards of 6-month confirmed EDSS worsening and improvement, relapses and annualised relapse rates (ARRs), using Andersen-Gill proportional hazards models and conditional negative binomial model.

Results

39 patients treated with AHSCT (37 with secondary progressive MS, mean age 37 years, EDSS 5.7, 28% with recent disability progression, ARR 0.54 during the preceding year) were matched with 65 patients treated with natalizumab. The study found no evidence for difference in hazards of confirmed EDSS worsening (HR 1.49, 95% CI 0.70 to 3.14) and improvement (HR 1.50, 95% CI 0.22 to 10.29) between AHSCT and natalizumab over up to 4 years. The relapse activity was also similar while treated with AHSCT and natalizumab (ARR: mean±SD 0.08±0.28 vs 0.08±0.25; HR 1.05, 95% CI 0.39 to 2.82). In the AHSCT group, 3 patients experienced febrile neutropenia during mobilisation, 9 patients experienced serum sickness, 6 patients required intensive care unit admission and 36 patients experienced complications after discharge. No treatment-related deaths were reported.

Conclusion

This study does not support the use of AHSCT to control disability in progressive MS with advanced disability and low relapse activity.
Chiral effective dynamo and torsion time loops holonomy on dislocated Dirac materials
Authors: de Andrade L.C. Garcia
Published: March 2024

Chiral torsional anomalies have recently been applied in condensed matter and models of gravitation and quantum field theory, in particular in Dirac and Weyl materials. Moreover, Einstein–Cartan space–time elastic gauge spaces with vanishing spin connection have appeared in the teleparallelism framework. Recently, Ciappina et al. (PRD (2020)) have investigated torsion in quantum field theory through time loops on Dirac materials endowed with torsion in (2 + 1)-dimensional space–time where the third dimension is replaced by time dimension. They considered Riemann-flat spaces graphenes for example. In this paper, a space–time teleparallel geometry is used where we encoded physical information of Burgers vectors on Dirac curved materials (GdA, CQG 38 (2021)). It is shown that when the magnetic or pseudo-magnetic field is encoded in this metric one obtains an interesting (2 + 1)-dimensional space–time is shown to lead to pseudo-Maxwell equations. We also show that a Riemann-flat grapheno, for example, imposes a vanishing Nieh–Yan (NY) torsional anomaly, whereas a curved Dirac material presents a non-vanishing NY anomaly. Torsion-induced holonomy on Dirac materials is investigated. Signatures of chiral dynamo effects in Dirac materials from the chiral chemical potential encoded into the covariant derivative are found. It is shown that in the absence of chiral effect the magnetic field torsion contribution decays, whereas in the chiral dynamo case, a dynamo effect is found. It is shown that from the interaction of chiral chemical potential with torsion an effective chiral chemical potential is found, which depends on the zero-component of Cartan torsion.
Mangiferin, a Potential Supplement to Improve Metabolic Syndrome: Current Status and Future Opportunities
Authors: Xiang Gelin , Guo Sa , Xing Nan , Du Qinyun , Qin Jing , Gao Huimin , Zhang Yi , Wang Shaohui
Published: March 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a considerable clinical and public health burden worldwide. Mangiferin (MF), a flavonoid compound present in diverse species such as mango (Mangifera indica L.), papaya (Pseudocydonia sinensis (Thouin) C. K. Schneid.), zhimu (Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge), and honeybush tea (Cyclopia genistoides), boasts a broad array of pharmacological effects. It holds promising uses in nutritionally and functionally targeted foods, particularly concerning MetS treatment. It is therefore pivotal to systematically investigate MF’s therapeutic mechanism for MetS and its applications in food and pharmaceutical sectors. This review, with the aid of a network pharmacology approach complemented by this experimental studies, unravels possible mechanisms underlying MF’s MetS treatment. Network pharmacology results suggest that MF treats MetS effectively through promoting insulin secretion, targeting obesity and inflammation, alleviating insulin resistance (IR), and mainly operating via the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-[Formula: see text]B), microtubule-associated protein kinase (MAPK), and oxidative stress signaling pathways while repairing damaged insulin signaling. These insights provide a comprehensive framework to understand MF’s potential mechanisms in treating MetS. These, however, warrant further experimental validation. Moreover, molecular docking techniques confirmed the plausibility of the predicted outcomes. Hereafter, these findings might form the theoretical bedrock for prospective research into MF’s therapeutic potential in MetS therapy.
Astragalus membranaceus Polysaccharide Regulates Small Intestinal Microbes and Activates IL-22 Signal Pathway to Promote Intestinal Stem Cell Regeneration in Aging Mice
Authors: Yin Jia-Ting , Zhang Ming-Ruo , Zhang Shu , Yang Shu-Hui , Li Jian-Ping , Liu Yun , Duan Jin-Ao , Guo Jian-Ming
Published: March 2024

Aging can cause degenerative changes in multiple tissues and organs. Gastrointestinal diseases and dysfunctions are common in the elderly population. In this study, we investigated the effects of Astragalus membranaceus polysaccharide (APS) and Astragalus membranaceus ethanol extract (AEE) on age-related intestinal dysfunction and gut microbiota dysbiosis in naturally aging mice. The energy expenditure and physical activity of 23-month-old C57BL6/J mice were recorded using a metabolic cage system. Pathological changes in the intestine were evaluated using Alcian blue staining. The protein levels of leucine-rich repeats containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) and Stat3 in the small intestine were determined using immunohistochemistry. The intestinal cell migration distance was assessed using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) immunofluorescence staining. The gene transcription levels of intestinal stem cell (ISC) markers and ISC-related signaling pathways were detected using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Microbiota analysis based on 16S rDNA was performed to evaluate the composition of the gut microbiota. APS and AEE improved a series of aging phenotypes in female but not in male aging mice. APS and AEE ameliorate intestinal dysfunction and histopathological changes in aging mice. APS had a more significant anti-aging effect than AEE, particularly on intestinal dysfunction. APS promotes ISC regeneration by activating the IL-22 signaling pathway. Cohousing (CH) experiments further confirmed that APS induced the IL-22 signaling pathway by increasing the abundance of Lactobacillus, thereby promoting the regeneration of ISCs. Our results show that APS may serve as a promising agent for improving age-related intestinal dysfunction.
Experimental and Density Functional Theory Study of Inhibitors on Cobalt Corrosion for Chemical Mechanical Planarization Process
Authors: Fang Qi , Yang Xueli , Pan Guofeng , Yang Xueyan , Qi Yuhang
Published: March 2024

In the localized and global chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) process of Co barrier layers, corrosion inhibitors play a crucial role in the removal rate (RR) of Co and the post-polishing surface quality. In this study, quantum chemical calculations were employed to investigate the molecular reactivity of benzotriazole (BTA), 5-methyl benzotriazole (TTA), and 2,2’-{[(methyl-1H-benzotriazol-1-yl)methyl]imino}bis-ethanol (TT-LYK), and their inhibitory performance was predicted to follow the order of TT-LYK > TTA > BTA. The experimental results validated the accuracy of the predicted order under static conditions. However, the performance order of the inhibitors shifted to TTA > BTA > TT-LYK due to varying degrees of damage caused by mechanical friction to the inhibitory film. Nevertheless, all three inhibitors are capable of effectively inhibiting the Co RR to meet industrial requirements. Ultimately, considering the outstanding inhibitory performance of TT-LYK and its ease of removal during post-cleaning processes, TT-LYK is determined as the most promising inhibitor for Co barrier layer CMP.
Kinetic Modeling and Material Removal Mechanism Analysis of Fixed-Abrasive Polishing for Lithium Tantalite Wafer
Authors: Hang Wei , Ye Jiahao , Chen Hongyu , Yuan Julong , Li Yong , Zhu Weijun , Cui Kun , Song Wei , Shi Xuxia
Published: March 2024

As a typical multi-functional soft-brittle material, lithium tantalate (LT) exhibits excellent electro-optical and ferroelectric properties and now has been widely applied in many fields, such as electro-optical modulators, pyroelectric detectors, and surface acoustic wave substrates. Traditional free-abrasive polishing processing of lithium tantalite crystals is generally fraught with poor efficiency for its lower fracture toughness. This study proposed a method of polishing lithium tantalite wafer by means of fixed-abrasive plates. A cutting force model and the relative cutting speed model of the machining mechanism of fixed-abrasive plates were first established, and then the main influencing factors of cutting force and relative cutting speed were analyzed on the basis of the theoretical model. It was found that cutting force is influenced by eccentricity and load, while relative cutting speed is influenced by eccentricity and the fixed-abrasive plates’ rotation speed. Finally, single-factor tests were conducted on these influencing factors, and the comparative analysis between the experimental results and those in the theoretical model shows that they are highly correlated to each other. After 30 min of polishing under the optimized parameters w = 60 rpm, e = 90 mmand applied with variable load, the surface roughness S
a of the workpiece can be reduced to 1.234 nm, and the MRR reaches 14.821 μm/h.
Burning Question: How Does Our Brain Process Positive and Negative Cues Associated with Thermosensation?
Authors: Grajales-Reyes Jose G. , Chen Bandy , Meseguer David , Schneeberger Marc
Published: March 2024

Whether it is the dramatic suffocating sensation from a heat wave in the summer or the positive reinforcement arising from a hot drink on a cold day; we can certainly agree that our thermal environment underlies our daily rhythms of sensation. Extensive research has focused on deciphering the central circuits responsible for conveying the impact of thermogenesis on mammalian behavior. Here, we revise the recent literature responsible for defining the behavioral correlates that arise from thermogenic fluctuations in mammals. We transition from the physiological significance of thermosensation to the circuitry responsible for the autonomic or behavioral responses associated with it. Subsequently, we delve into the positive and negative valence encoded by thermoregulatory processes. Importantly, we emphasize the crucial junctures where reward, pain, and thermoregulation intersect, unveiling a complex interplay within these neural circuits. Finally, we briefly outline fundamental questions that are pending to be addressed in the field. Fully deciphering the thermoregulatory circuitry in mammals will have far-reaching medical implications. For instance, it may lead to the identification of novel targets to overcome thermal pain or allow the maintenance of our core temperature in prolonged surgeries.
Developing Client Self‐Advocacy in Occupational Therapy: Are We Practicing What We Preach?
Authors: VanPuymbrouck Laura , Chun Emily M. , Hesse Elizabeth D. , Ranneklev Kelsey , Sanchez Camila
Published: March 2024

Background. Developing client self‐advocacy is in occupational therapy’s (OT) scope of practice; however, there is limited understanding of if, or how, occupational therapists learn about self‐advocacy interventions as well as implement self‐advocacy into clinical practice. Objective. This study sought to identify if and how therapists learn about self‐advocacy intervention approaches and identify if and how therapists implement self‐advocacy into their work with clients. Method. A survey was distributed via email to academic and professional listservs in the United States, and data were collected using REDCap survey software. Descriptive statistics were analyzed data using REDCap/SPSS. Comparative statistics, Kruskal‐Wallis’s tests, Chi‐square tests for independence, and Pearson’s correlation tests analyzed differences across groups of respondents. Results. Practicing and licensed occupational therapists (n = 138) across the United States completed the survey. Findings indicate a majority (59.5%) of occupational therapists not learning strategies for addressing or developing client self‐advocacy. Of significance, 21.7% of participants had never been exposed to concepts of client self‐advocacy in academic or clinical education. Practitioners who did address self‐advocacy did so indirectly through teaching‐related skills (76.6%). Conclusion. Many clients of OT will need self‐advocacy skills in order to address issues of exclusion and discrimination that prohibit full participation in society. Occupational therapists must prioritize incorporating client self‐advocacy into curricula and clinical practice.
Driving Comfort Analysis Method of Highway Bridge Based on Human‐Vehicle‐Bridge Interaction
Authors: Guo Zhi-Bo , Zou Jian , Bu Jian-Qing , Zhang Ji-Ren
Published: March 2024

Research on evaluating highway bridge performance through vehicle‐bridge interaction (VBI) analysis has made significant advancements. However, when assessing driving comfort, using vehicle acceleration instead of human acceleration poses challenges in accurately representing comfort. First, the paper proposes a finite element analysis method for human‐vehicle‐bridge spatial interactions (HVBSIs). Then, the importance of wheel path roughness difference is explored when assessing driving comfort. Furthermore, a new method for evaluating driving comfort that includes human and vehicle vibration responses has been proposed, and a simulation example of the steel‐concrete composite beam bridge (SCCBB) is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results demonstrate that the HVBSI analysis method effectively simulates the interconnected vibrations of the human body, the spatial vehicle model, and the three‐dimensional (3D) bridge model. Differences in wheel path roughness significantly impact the roll vehicle vibration responses, which are crucial in driving comfort analysis. The driver’s body vibration response is essential for evaluating driving comfort, and its inclusion leads to increased comfort indices values. In comparison to traditional methods, the overall vibration total value (OVTV) increases by a maximum of 109.04%, and the level of weighted vibration (Leq) increases by a maximum of 6.74%. This leads to an upgrade from grade IV to grade V in terms of comfort level, indicating a reduced comfort.
Network Analysis of Internet Addiction, Online Social Anxiety, Fear of Missing Out, and Interpersonal Sensitivity among Chinese University Students
Authors: Zhu Xinyi , Lian Wen , Fan Lu
Published: March 2024

Background. Despite the growing prevalence of internet usage among young people, the relationships between internet addiction, online social anxiety, fear of missing out (FoMO), and interpersonal sensitivity remain uncertain, intricate, and multifaceted. To gain insight into the underlying psychological mechanisms, we employed network analysis to explore the interconnections between them. This endeavor may provide fresh opportunities for intervention and treatment. Methods. In this study, 470 participants were assessed at age from 18 to 22 (M=20.18 years, SD=1.861) years. Network analysis was used to examine the connections between symptoms, and statistical measures were applied to assess the stability of the network model. Results. Online social anxiety and interpersonal sensitivity had the strongest associations with other symptoms in the network, with “Evaluation anxiety” having the highest expected influence centrality, followed by “Privacy concern anxiety,” “Need for approval,” “Suspicion,” and “vulnerability.” The FoMO symptom, “Fear of missing information,” had the strongest direct relation to internet addiction. “Evaluation anxiety” and “Fear of missing information” played a key role in bridging internet addiction and interpersonal sensitivity. Additionally, the structure distribution of edge weights had a significant difference between gender. Conclusions. Our findings indicated that FoMO, interpersonal sensitivity, and online social anxiety likely play a significant role in the development and continuation of internet addiction. Interpersonal sensitivity seems to contribute to increased online social anxiety, FoMO, and the development of internet addiction, indicating that targeting these symptoms may help reduce negative online behavior and psychological burden.
The Relevance of Radial Margin Status in Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma: A State-of-the-Art Narrative Review
Authors: De Bellis Mario , Mastrosimini Maria Gaia , Capelli Paola , Alaimo Laura , Conci Simone , Campagnaro Tommaso , Pecori Sara , Scarpa Aldo , Guglielmi Alfredo , Ruzzenente Andrea
Published: March 2024

Background: Prognosis of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC) is poor, and curative-intent resection is the most effective treatment associated with long-term survival. Surgery is technically demanding since it involves a major hepatectomy with en bloc resection of the caudate lobe and extrahepatic bile duct. Furthermore, to achieve negative margins, it may be necessary to perform concomitant vascular resection or pancreatoduodenectomy. Despite this aggressive approach, recurrence is often observed, considering 5-year recurrence-free survival below 15% and 5-year overall survival that barely exceeds 40%. Summary: The literature reports that survival rates are better in patients with negative margins, and surprisingly, R0 resections range between 19% and 95%. This variability is probably due to different surgical strategies and the pathologist’s expertise with specimens. In fact, a proper pathological examination of residual disease should take into consideration both the ductal and the radial margin (RM) status. Currently, detailed pathological reports are lacking, and there is a likelihood of misinterpreting residual disease status due to the missing of RM description and the utilization of various definitions for surgical margins. Key Messages: The aim of PHCC surgery is to achieve negative margins including RM. More clarity in reporting on RM is needed to define true radical resection and consistent design of oncological studies for adjuvant treatments.
Respiratory Muscle Strength Is Related to Handgrip Performance in Community-Dwelling Persons Aged 80+ from the BUTTERFLY Study
Authors: Dreessen Lisa , Debain Aziz , Lieten Siddhartha , Bravenboer Bert , Vermeiren Sofie , Vella-Azzopardi Roberta , Knoop Veerle , Costenoble Axelle , Smeys Celeste , Iranyeza Rock-Ange , Van der Meulen Kristof E.Y. , Vanderhelst Eef , Schuermans Daniel , Bautmans Ivan ,   on behalf of the Gerontopole Brussels Study group
Published: March 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the association of respiratory muscle strength with sarcopenia and its indicators in the oldest old. Methods: Maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), and sarcopenia-related factors (handgrip strength and appendicular lean mass) were evaluated in a cohort of n = 286 (45.5% female) non-frail, community-dwelling persons aged 83.6 ± 3.0 years (age range 80–97 years). Results: The sample presented a sarcopenia prevalence of 32.2%. Sarcopenic subjects showed comparable MIP and MEP as non-sarcopenic ones (female: MIP 43.9 ± 18.9 vs. 50.3 ± 19.5, p = 0.053; MEP 63.0 ± 23.0 vs. 69.2 ± 19.1, p = 0.067; male: MIP, 65.1 ± 24.4 vs. 64.4 ± 23.9, p = 0.433; MEP 87.7 ± 33.3 vs. 93.8 ± 30.9, p = 0.124). Statistically significant but very low associations were found between grip strength and MIP (r = 0.193 for male, p < 0.05 and r = 0.257 for female participants, p < 0.01) and MEP (r = 0.200 for male, p < 0.01 and r = 0.191 for female participants, p < 0.05). Lean mass was significantly correlated to MIP and MEP in female (r = 0.253, p < 0.01 and r = 0.343, p < 0.01, respectively), whereas this association was not found in male participants. Grip strength was the only statistically significant predictor of MEP (r2 = 0.212, p < 0.001), while MIP was independently predicted by age, male sex, and grip strength (r2 = 0.177, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Peripheral muscle strength is a statistically significant, albeit weak predictor for respiratory muscle strength in well-functioning, community-dwelling persons aged 80+. When confronted to a low grip strength, one should be aware of concomitant respiratory muscle weakness, as this is a known risk factor for atelectasis and pneumonia. Given the relatively low association with handgrip strength, respiratory muscle strength testing might be indicated.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Pathologic Complete Response in HR+/HER2− Breast Cancer: Impact of Tumor Ki67 and ER Status
Authors: Akdag Goncagul , Yildirim Sedat , Dogan Akif , Yuksel Yasar Zeynep , Bal Hamit , Kinikoglu Oguzcan , Oksuz Sila , Ozkerim Ugur , Tunbekici Salih , Yildiz Hacer Sahika , Turkoglu Ezgi , Alan Ozkan , Coban Kokten Sermin , Isik Deniz , Sever Ozlem Nuray , Odabas Hatice , Yildirim Mahmut Emre , Turan Nedim
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is extensively employed in breast cancer (BC), primarily for aggressive subtypes like triple-negative and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive BC and in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+)/HER2− BC with high-risk features. In ER+/HER2− BC, pathological complete rates are much lower (<10%), while axillary dissection rates are higher. This study focuses on hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/HER2− BC patients undergoing NAC, examining its impact on pathological complete response (pCR) rates, with specific attention to tumor Ki67 and ER status. Methods: Retrospective data analysis from Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar City Hospital included HR+/HER2− BC patients who received NAC. Clinicopathological factors, NAC response, and surgical outcomes were assessed. Statistical analyses evaluated the association between Ki67, ER status, and pCR. Results: Of 203 patients, 11.8% achieved pCR. Ki67 (p < 0.001) and ER percentage (p < 0.001) significantly correlated with pCR. Higher Ki67 was associated with increased pCR likelihood (HR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.05). A Ki67-pCR probability curve revealed a cutoff of 23.5%. ER%-pCR analysis showed decreasing pCR rates with higher ER percentages. Multivariate analysis confirmed Ki67 (p = 0.003, HR: 1.02) and ER percentage (p = 0.019, HR: 0.97) as independent predictors of pCR probability. Conclusion: Consideration of Ki67 and ER percentage aids in NAC decisions for HR+/HER2− BC, identifying patients with high NAC response rates, facilitating axillary preservation, and potentially avoiding axillary dissection. The pCR rates in patients with Ki67 ≤24 are particularly low, especially in patients with a high ER percentage. In these cases, upfront surgery and adjuvant treatment should be considered instead of NAC.
Platelet Additive Solutions SSP+ and T-PAS+ Are Interchangeable for Platelet Concentrate Storage despite Differences in Composition and Plasticizer
Authors: Van Aelst Britt , Bens Karen , Sabot Bea , Vertongen Sarah , Feys Hendrik B. , Compernolle Veerle , Six Katrijn R.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Platelet additive solutions support ex vivo storage of platelet concentrates used for transfusion. The composition of platelet additive solutions within one generation (i.e., PAS-E) is similar but not identical. Additionally, the platelet additive solution storage bag may contain different plasticizers. This study compares the effect of two PAS-E solutions (SSP+ vs. T-PAS+, stored in a DEHP-containing and DEHP-free bag, respectively) to investigate if both additive solutions are interchangeable for platelet concentrate storage. Methods: Platelet concentrates stored in plasma supplemented with SSP+ or T-PAS+ were compared by using a pool-and-split design. Platelet metabolism was investigated using a blood gas analyzer. The degree of platelet storage lesion was determined by flow cytometry to measure granule release and phosphatidylserine scrambling. Results: The quality of platelet concentrates stored in either SSP+ or T-PAS+ is acceptable as pH decreased only slightly as a function of time. PH remained above 7.2 on exiration day +1 (day 6), which is far above the minimal criterion of 6.4. Platelet storage lesion was comparable between the two study groups with only limited α-granule release and phosphatidylserine surface expression in both groups after storage for 5 days, p = 0.547 and p = 0.825, respectively. Conclusion: This study supports a safe switch between SSP+ and T-PAS+ storage solutions for platelet concentrates despite slight differences in storage solution composition and DEHP content.
Cardiac GR Mediates the Diurnal Rhythm in Ventricular Arrhythmia Susceptibility
Authors: Tikhomirov Roman , Oakley Robert H. , Anderson Cali , Xiang Yirong , Al-Othman Sami , Smith Matthew , Yaar Sana , Torre Eleonora , Li Jianying , Wilson Leslie R. , Goulding David R. , Donaldson Ian , Harno Erika , Soattin Luca , Shiels Holly A. , Morris Gwilym M. , Zhang Henggui , Boyett Mark R. , Cidlowski John A. , Mesirca Pietro , Mangoni Matteo E. , D’Souza Alicia
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) demonstrate a prominent day-night rhythm, commonly presenting in the morning. Transcriptional rhythms in cardiac ion channels accompany this phenomenon, but their role in the morning vulnerability to VAs and the underlying mechanisms are not understood. We investigated the recruitment of transcription factors that underpins transcriptional rhythms in ion channels and assessed whether this mechanism was pertinent to the heart’s intrinsic diurnal susceptibility to VA.

METHODS AND RESULTS:

Assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing performed in mouse ventricular myocyte nuclei at the beginning of the animals’ inactive (ZT0) and active (ZT12) periods revealed differentially accessible chromatin sites annotating to rhythmically transcribed ion channels and distinct transcription factor binding motifs in these regions. Notably, motif enrichment for the glucocorticoid receptor (GR; transcriptional effector of corticosteroid signaling) in open chromatin profiles at ZT12 was observed, in line with the well-recognized ZT12 peak in circulating corticosteroids. Molecular, electrophysiological, and in silico biophysically-detailed modeling approaches demonstrated GR-mediated transcriptional control of ion channels (including
Scn5a
underlying the cardiac Na
+
current,
Kcnh2
underlying the rapid delayed rectifier K
+
current, and
Gja1
responsible for electrical coupling) and their contribution to the day-night rhythm in the vulnerability to VA. Strikingly, both pharmacological block of GR and cardiomyocyte-specific genetic knockout of GR blunted or abolished ion channel expression rhythms and abolished the ZT12 susceptibility to pacing-induced VA in isolated hearts.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study registers a day-night rhythm in chromatin accessibility that accompanies diurnal cycles in ventricular myocytes. Our approaches directly implicate the cardiac GR in the myocyte excitability rhythm and mechanistically link the ZT12 surge in glucocorticoids to intrinsic VA propensity at this time.
Cardiomyopathy in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke and Methamphetamine Use: Relevance for Cardioembolic Stroke and Outcome
Authors: Lee Sook Joung , Liu Shimeng , Blackwill Haley , Stradling Dana , Shafie Mohammad , Yu Wengui
Published: March 2024

Background

Methamphetamine use has emerged as a major risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease in young adults. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible association of methamphetamine use with cardioembolic stroke.

Methods and Results

We performed a retrospective study of patients with acute ischemic stroke admitted at our medical center between 2019 and 2022. All patients were screened for methamphetamine use and cardiomyopathy, defined as left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45%. Among 938 consecutive patients, 46 (4.9%) were identified as using methamphetamine. Compared with the nonmethamphetamine group (n=892), the methamphetamine group was significantly younger (52.8±9.6 versus 69.7±15.2 years;
P
<0.001), included more men (78.3% versus 52.8%;
P
<0.001), and had a significantly higher rate of cardiomyopathy (30.4% versus 14.0%;
P
<0.01). They were also less likely to have a history of atrial fibrillation (8.7% versus 33.4%;
P
<0.01) or hyperlipidemia (28.3% versus 51.7%;
P
<0.01). Compared with patients with cardiomyopathy without methamphetamine use, the patients with cardiomyopathy with methamphetamine use had significantly lower left ventricular ejection fraction (26.0±9.59% versus 32.47±9.52%;
P
<0.01) but better functional outcome at 3 months, likely attributable to significantly younger age and fewer comorbidities. In the logistic regression model of clinical variables, methamphetamine‐associated cardiomyopathy was found to be significantly associated with cardioembolic stroke (odds ratio, 1.79 [95% CI, 1.04–3.06];
P
<0.05).

Conclusions

We demonstrate that methamphetamine use is significantly associated with cardiomyopathy and cardioembolic stroke in young adults.
Technology, R2P, and the UN Framework of Analysis for Atrocity Crimes
Authors: D’Alessandra Federica , Gildea Ross James
Published: March 2024

How should rapid developments in digital and cyber technology shape our understanding of the Responsibility to Protect (R2P)? And in operationalising the doctrine, how might insights on the impact of technology be integrated within key tools of R2P implementation, such as the United Nations Framework of Analysis for Atrocity Crimes? Although prior literature has produced rich discussion of R2P as a norm, and of the politics surrounding it, analysts have paid ‘far less attention to what R2P looks like in practice’, especially with regard to advances in new technology. In this article we contend that, whether we look at the future of R2P through a normative/legal lens, or from a policy/operational perspective, grappling with the impact of technology on the practical realities of mass atrocity situations is of critical importance. To explore this argument, we empirically engage with one of the primary tools through which the implementation of R2P has benefited, the UN Framework of Analysis on Atrocity Crimes (unfaac).
Mesozoic: Inaugural editorial
Authors: ZHOU ZHONG-HE
Published: March 2024

I am pleased to be invited to be the honorary editor-in-chief of the new, free, and open access journal Mesozoic published by Magnolia Press.
The nomenclatural cases of Veronica steppacea and V. menthifolia (Plantaginaceae), with notes on the status of provisional names and type designation
Authors: MOSYAKIN SERGEI L. , ALBACH DIRK C. , DAUBERT MAREIKE , ANTONENKO SVITLANA I.
Published: March 2024

A nomenclatural and taxonomic analysis is provided for the name Veronica steppacea Kotov (Plantaginaceae: Veronica subg. Pseudolysimachium) and some associated names of plants occurring mainly in the Steppe and Forest-Steppe physiographic zones of southeastern Europe, especially Ukraine. In particular, it is confirmed that the name V. steppacea was validly published in 1954. The first publication of that name in 1927 was invalid because it was published with “the mere mention of the subordinate taxa included in the taxon concerned” (Art. 36.2 of the ICN). Following the current provisions of the ICN, the specimen KW000058110 collected by Kotov in 1949 (“1948” in the protologue is a typo or error) in southeastern Ukraine (Donetsk Region, Volnovakha District, Starohnativka) is designated here as the lectotype of the name V. steppacea, one of three specimens at KW annotated by the author as “types” and belonging to one gathering. A list of main synonyms of V. steppacea (including V. borysthenica, V. cretacea, V. donetzica, V. tzvelevii, etc.) is provided. A corrected type designation is published for the name V. menthifolia H. Schott ex Roem. & Schult.: the illustration in Clusius (1601) is designated as the lectotype and the specimen from the herbarium of H. Schott (BP 348066) is designated as the epitype. Most probably V. menthifolia is conspecific with V. barrelieri (referring to an eastern Submediterranean European taxon), and thus the name V. steppacea should be used for related southeastern European plants. Several potential amendments of the ICN are briefly considered based on the nomenclatural cases discussed in the article.
Coltricia aridicola sp. nov. derived from the Coltricia perennis complex (Hymenochaetaceae) confirmed by molecular phylogeny
Authors: WU YING-DA , BIAN LU-SEN , VLASÁK JOSEF , LIU HONG-GAO , DAI YU-CHENG
Published: March 2024

A new polypore in the family Hymenochaetaceae, Coltricia aridicola, is described and illustrated from China and the USA based on morphology and phylogenetic analysis. The species was found in northeast and southwest China and western USA, growing on soil in gymnosperm forests. It is characterized by an annual growth habit, centrally stipitate basidiocarps with regular pilei, pileal surface distinctly zonate, medium-sized pores as 3–4 per mm, a monomitic hyphal system, generative hyphae with simple septa, the presence of antler-like hyphal elements at the pileal surface, contextual hyphae almost twice the diameter of the tramal hyphae, thick-walled, yellowish, cyanophilous, oblong-ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 7–7.8 × 4.5–4.8 µm, and growth in dry environments such as burnt soil or open areas of ground in gymnosperm forests. The phylogenetic analysis based on ITS sequences showed that samples of C. aridicola nested in Coltricia, forming a monophyletic lineage with strong support (100 % BS, 100 % BP, 1.00 BPP). The differences between C. aridicola and its similar and related species in the genus are discussed.