bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A escrita feminina na tradição epistolar em Carta à rainha louca, de Maria Valéria Rezende
Authors: Costa Cindy Conceição Oliveira
Published: January 2025

The present study aimed to examine how the character of a writer is constructed in the novel Carta à rainha louca (2019) by Maria Valéria Rezende, revisiting the issues surrounding epistolary writing by women. Thus, it sought to trace a path concerning the mentioned genre and how letters were attributed a feminine character, leading to questions about their relationship with women’s identity over time, as well as discussing themes around epistolary novel, such as characters and readers. Methodologically, this study is characterized as bibliographic research, drawing on theoretical contributions from authors such as Haroche-Bouzinac (2016), Diaz (2016), Bouvet (2006), Castells (2018), Perrot (2017), among others. The results indicate that this type of study provides an opportunity for reflection on how women are represented and how they express their voices through writing.
Cardiovascular Disease Multimorbidity and Decreased Health‐Related Quality of Life in Haiti: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Sabwa Shalom , Rouzier Vanessa , Sufra Rodney , St. Sauveur Reichling , Mourra Nour , Rasul Rehana , Inddy Joseph , Yan Lily D. , Sterling Madeline , Pinheiro Laura , Deschamps Marie , Pape Jean William , McNairy Margaret L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Multimorbidity is increasingly prevalent in lower‐ and middle‐income countries. Health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) has been inversely associated with multimorbidity but is understudied in lower‐ and middle‐income countries. We report cardiovascular disease (CVD) multimorbidity in Haiti and its association with HRQOL.

Methods and Results

We used data from the Haiti CVD Cohort, a population‐based longitudinal cohort of adults. CVD multimorbidity was 2+ CVD risk factors/diseases at enrollment. HRQOL was measured using the Short Form‐12, yielding physical component summary/mental component summary scores between 0 and 100, with higher scores indicating better HRQOL. We used linear regressions to assess the association between CVD multimorbidity and HRQOL and individual CVD comorbidities and HRQOL. Additionally, we examined sex and education as potential effect modifiers. Among 2,996 participants, the median age was 40 years (interquartile range [IQR], 27–55), 58.0% were women, and 70.3% earned <1 US dollar per day. CVD multimorbidity prevalence was 24.1%; compared with those without CVD multimorbidity, those with CVD multimorbidity were older (median age, 56.0 years [IQR, 47.0–53.0]) and women (70.5%). Adjusted models revealed CVD multimorbidity was inversely related to physical component summary (−2.7 [95% CI, −3.8 to −1.6]) and mental component summary (−1.0 [95% CI, −1.8 to −0.2]). Heart failure and hypertension showed the strongest CVD morbidities associated with poor HRQOL. In the interaction analysis, among men, CVD multimorbidity was associated with a 4.3‐point lower physical component summary score. Among those with less education, CVD multimorbidity was associated with a 4.6‐point lower physical component summary score than no CVD multimorbidity.

Conclusions

Our data are among the first to describe HRQOL data with high CVD multimorbidity in a young population in urban Haiti, and CVD multimorbidity was associated with decreased HRQOL.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03892265.
Relationship Between
RNF213
p.R4810K and Echocardiographic Findings in Patients with Cerebrovascular Diseases: A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Noda Kotaro , Hattori Yorito , Nishii Tatsuya , Horinouchi Hiroki , Nakaoku Yuriko , Ogata Soshiro , Inagaki Yasunobu , Asano Ryotaro , Yoshimoto Takeshi , Nishimura Kunihiro , Ogo Takeshi , Nakaoka Yoshikazu , Ihara Masafumi
Published: January 2025

Background

RING finger protein 213 (
RNF213
) p.R4810K is an established risk factor for moyamoya disease and intracranial artery stenosis in East Asian people. Recent evidence suggests its potential association with extracranial cardiovascular diseases, including pulmonary hypertension. We hypothesized that insidious abnormal cardiac functions are detected in
RNF213
p.R4810K carriers with cerebrovascular diseases.

Methods and Results

We investigated patients registered in the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Genome Registry between May 2017 and August 2021 who underwent echocardiography. All patients had cerebrovascular diseases. Patients with a medical history of chronic heart or pulmonary diseases were excluded.
RNF213
p.R4810K was genotyped in all the patients. Of 2089 patients registered in the registry, 71 carriers and 1241 noncarriers were eligible for our analyses. The carriage of
RNF213
p.R4810K emerged as a significant predictor for longer right ventricular outflow tract acceleration time in multivariable linear regression analysis (β=8.33 [95% CI, 0.92–15.74];
P
=0.028). Additionally, the carriers showed increased odds of having right ventricular outflow tract acceleration time values ≥150 milliseconds (odds ratio, 2.22 [95% CI, 1.18–4.18];
P
=0.014) in multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions

A longer right ventricular outflow tract acceleration time may reflect an increased pulmonary vascular bed induced by abnormal vascular collateral networks and dilation of capillary vessels in peripheral pulmonary arteries in the preclinical stage of
RNF213
‐related pulmonary hypertension. Thus, the right ventricular outflow tract acceleration time marker in
RNF213
p.R4810K carriers suggests a biphasic course from the presymptomatic to symptomatic phase. Furthermore, vascular neurologists should carefully examine multiple organs because
RNF213
‐related vasculopathy covers systemic cardiovascular diseases.

Registration

URL:
https://www.umin.ac.jp
; Unique identifier: UMIN000050750.
Insights Into Causal Effects of Genetically Proxied Lipids and Lipid‐Modifying Drug Targets on Cardiometabolic Diseases
Authors: Fu Liwan , Liu Qin , Cheng Hong , Zhao Xiaoyuan , Xiong Jingfan , Mi Jie
Published: January 2025

Background

The differential impact of serum lipids and their targets for lipid modification on cardiometabolic disease risk is debated. This study used Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relationships and underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Genetic variants related to lipid profiles and targets for lipid modification were sourced from the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium. Summary data for 10 cardiometabolic diseases were compiled from both discovery and replication data sets. Expression quantitative trait loci data from relevant tissues were employed to evaluate significant lipid‐modifying drug targets. Comprehensive analyses including colocalization, mediation, and bioinformatics were conducted to validate the results and investigate potential mediators and mechanisms.

Results

Significant causal associations were identified between lipids, lipid‐modifying drug targets, and various cardiometabolic diseases. Notably, genetic enhancement of LPL (lipoprotein lipase) was linked to reduced risks of myocardial infarction (odds ratio [OR]
1
, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.57–0.75],
P
1
=2.60×10
−9
; OR
2
, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.49–0.72],
P
2
=1.52×10
−7
), ischemic heart disease (OR
1
, 0.968 [95% CI, 0.962–0.975],
P
1
=5.50×10
−23
; OR
2
, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.55–0.73],
P
2
=1.72×10
−10
), and coronary heart disease (OR
1
, 0.980 [95% CI, 0.975–0.985],
P
1
=3.63×10
−14
; OR
2
, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.54–0.75],
P
2
=6.62×10
−8
) across 2 data sets. Moreover, significant Mendelian randomization and strong colocalization associations for the expression of LPL in blood and subcutaneous adipose tissue were linked with myocardial infarction (OR, 0.918 [95% CI, 0.872–0.967],
P
=1.24×10
−3
; PP.H4, 0.99) and coronary heart disease (OR, 0.991 [95% CI, 0.983–0.999],
P
=0.041; PP.H4=0.92). Glucose levels and blood pressure were identified as mediators in the total effect of LPL on cardiometabolic outcomes.

Conclusions

The study substantiates the causal role of lipids in specific cardiometabolic diseases, highlighting LPL as a potent drug target. The effects of LPL are suggested to be influenced by changes in glucose and blood pressure, providing insights into its mechanism of action.
Poor Olfaction and Risk of Stroke in Older Adults: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study
Authors: Chamberlin Keran W. , Li Chenxi , Kucharska-Newton Anna , Luo Zhehui , Reeves Mathew , Shrestha Srishti , Pinto Jayant M. , Deal Jennifer A. , Kamath Vidyulata , Palta Priya , Couper David , Mosley Thomas H. , Chen Honglei
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Poor olfaction may be associated with adverse cerebrovascular events, but empirical evidence is limited. We aimed to investigate the association of olfaction with the risk of stroke in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study.

METHODS:

We included 5799 older adults with no history of stroke at baseline from 2011 to 2013 (75.5±5.1 years, 59.0% female and 22.2% Black). Olfaction was assessed by the 12-item Sniffin’ Sticks odor identification test and defined as poor (number correct ≤8), moderate (9–10), or good (11–12). Participants were followed from baseline to the date of the first stroke, death, last contact, or December 31, 2020, whichever occurred first. We used the discrete-time subdistribution hazard model to estimate the marginal cumulative incidence of stroke across olfactory statuses and adjusted risk ratios, accounting for covariates and competing risk of death.

RESULTS:

After up to 9.6 years of follow-up, we identified 332 incident stroke events. The adjusted marginal cumulative incidence of stroke at 9.6-year follow-up was 5.3% (95% CI, 4.2%–6.3%), 5.9% (95% CI, 4.8%–7.1%), and 7.7% (95% CI, 6.5%–9.1%) for good, moderate, and poor olfaction, respectively. Compared with good olfaction, poor olfaction was significantly associated with higher stroke risk throughout follow-up, albeit the association modestly attenuated after 6 years. Specifically, the adjusted risk ratios were 2.14 (95% CI, 1.22–3.94) at year 2, 1.98 (95% CI, 1.43–3.02) at year 4, 1.91 (95% CI, 1.43–2.77) at year 6, 1.49 (95% CI, 1.17–2.00) at year 8, and 1.45 (95% CI, 1.16–1.95) at year 9.6. Results were robust in multiple subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS:

In older adults, poor olfaction assessed by a single olfaction test was associated with the higher risk of stroke in the next 10 years.
Transient Ischemic Attack in Women: Real-World Hospitalization Incidence, Outcomes, and Risk of Hemorrhage and Stroke
Authors: Chen Huanwen , Khunte Mihir , Colasurdo Marco , Majmundar Shyam , Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Chaturvedi Seemant , Malhotra Ajay , Gandhi Dheeraj
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Sex-specific differences in stroke risk factors, clinical presentation, and outcomes are well documented. However, little is known about real-world differences in transient ischemic attack (TIA) hospitalizations and outcomes between men and women.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective cohort study of the 2016 to 2021 Nationwide Readmissions Database in the United States. Adult patients hospitalized for TIA were included. Annual incidences of TIA hospitalizations for men and women were calculated using the US Census Bureau data. Primary end points were 90-day readmission for ischemic stroke or hemorrhage and compared between men and women. Demographics and comorbidities were captured and used to adjust for confounders using propensity score matching and logistic regression models.

RESULTS:

A total of 588 499 patients were identified; 326 794 (55.5%) were women. The estimated annual incidence of TIA hospitalizations was 42.4 (95% CI, 26.0–58.9) per 100 000 women and 36.2 (95% CI, 23.5–48.9) per 100 000 men (relative risk, 1.17 [95% CI, 1.13–1.21];
P
<0.001). Overall, women were older, had higher rates of headache and psychiatric comorbidities, and had lower rates of vascular risk factors compared with men. Women were significantly less likely to be readmitted for ischemic stroke (hazard ratio, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.79–0.93];
P
<0.001) and more likely to be readmitted for hemorrhage (hazard ratio, 1.12 [95% CI, 1.04–1.20];
P
<0.001), with similar rates of antithrombotic use at the time of readmissions (
P
>0.05). Compared with ischemic stroke, hemorrhage readmissions were significantly associated with lower odds of home discharge (odds ratio, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.76–0.91];
P
<0.001) and higher odds of death (odds ratio, 3.01 [95% CI, 2.35–3.87];
P
<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Women have a higher incidence of TIA hospitalizations than men, which may be due to higher rates of nonischemic causes of transient neurological symptoms as evidenced by differences in baseline characteristics and lower rates of subsequent ischemic stroke. Future studies are needed to better characterize transient neurological symptoms in women to avoid excess hospitalizations and unnecessary treatments that may increase hemorrhage risk.
First record of the genus Sundagrapha Holloway, 1982 (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Ennominae, Cassymini) from China, with description of a new species
Authors: LIU BO , YAN WEI
Published: January 2025

The genus Sundagrapha Holloway, 1982 is reported from China for the first time. A new species, Sundagrapha recta sp. nov., is described from Hainan Province. Adults of both sexes and their genitalia are illustrated and compared with those of closely related species. Additionally, a comprehensive identification key for all currently known species of Sundagrapha is provided.
The Role of Vortex Preconditioning in the Occurrence of Antarctic Weak Polar Vortex Events
Authors: Yang Pengkun , Bao Ming , Xia Yan , Ren Xuejuan
Published: January 2025

The Antarctic weak polar vortex events (WPVs) can induce noticeable impacts on the tropospheric circulation. The vortex preconditioning refers to the anomalous stratospheric state favoring the occurrence of vortex disruption. Motivated by the limited research on the stratospheric preconditioning of Antarctic WPVs, the detailed role of preconditioned stratospheric anomalies in triggering WPVs is investigated, using the latest ERA5.1 reanalysis data. The vortex preconditioning of WPVs originates from the planetary wave breaking in the middle–upper stratosphere. It features a poleward shift of the polar night jet that occurs within 80 days before the onset of WPVs, coinciding with the sharpening of the meridional potential vorticity (PV) gradient along the vortex edge. Our results indicate that the stratospheric modulation during vortex preconditioning is the essential factor for triggering most Antarctic WPVs, regardless of the presence of an anomalously strong wave source in the troposphere. About 84% of WPVs are preceded by robustly positive meridional PV gradient anomalies along the vortex edge. Furthermore, about 36% of WPVs are only preceded by strong stratospheric anomalies but without anomalously strong tropospheric wave pulse. Compared to the Northern Hemisphere, preconditioned stratospheric signals in the Southern Hemisphere have a longer duration and larger proportion linking to WPVs. More Antarctic WPVs are preceded by more frequency wave-1 minor warming–like disturbances in the middle–upper stratosphere than Arctic WPVs. Especially, the stratospheric indicator can at least account for about 41% and 65% magnitudes of 10-day zonal-wind deceleration for the two consensus Antarctic WPVs in 2002 and 2019, respectively.
Rayleigh waves in a layered thermoelastic structure
Authors: Chiriţă Stan
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to establish a general exact secular equation for Rayleigh surface waves propagating in an isotropic thermoelastic half-space coated by an isotropic thermoelastic layer of arbitrary thickness. The contact between the layer and the half-space is assumed to be welded on the interface. The outer surface of the layer is free of traction, and no heat transfer is allowed with the surrounding environment. When passing through the contact surface, the displacements and temperature fields, as well as the stresses and heat flux fields, are supposed to vary continuously, no jump being allowed. The explicit expressions of free Rayleigh waves in both the layer and the half-space are first presented, and then they are used to establish the general exact secular equation. Numerical illustrations are presented for a layered structure consisting of an aluminum layer welded on a half-space made of various thermoelastic materials outlining the main characteristics of Rayleigh wave propagation: the dimensionless propagation speed and the dimensionless damping in time of the wave’s amplitude. The exact effective boundary conditions for the Rayleigh waves are established in the thermoelastic half-spaces covered with thin films. Some limiting cases are also discussed: (1) when the thermoelastic layer is absent and (2) when the thermal effects are neglected.
Copeman Nodules: A Rare Patient Case Occurring After a Herpes Zoster Infection
Authors: Farina Renato , D’Urso Mattia , Inì Corrado , Foti Pietro Valerio , Motta Claudia , Cocuzza Giuseppe , Tiralongo Francesco , Magnani Maria , Basile Antonio
Published: January 2025

Copeman nodes are a herniation of subcutaneous adipose tissue into the underlying muscle layer, through a breach in the superficial muscle fascia. First described by Ries et al., these nodes were studied more closely by rheumatologists Copeman and Ackerman. These nodules may occur singularly or in groups and may be unilateral or bilateral. They are elastic to palpation, mobile, and vary in size from 1 to 3 cm. They are predominantly located in the lateral lumbar spine regions. The pain these nodes cause is superficial and constant but may be exacerbated by palpation and trunk movement. Sonography is essential for diagnosis as, due to their small size, they are difficult to detect with computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Copeman nodes should be suspected in cases of chronic superficial lateral lumbar pain, especially when other causes have been excluded. This report describes a patient case with unusual onset of Copeman nodes, after contracting herpes zoster.
IAP dependency of T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia identified by high-throughput drug screening.
Authors: Pohly Marcel F. , Putzker Kerstin , Scheinost Sebastian , Ben Taarit Lena , Walther Tatjana , Kummer Sandra , Wertheimer Tobias , Lin Minqi , Do Thi Huong Lan , Handler Kristina , Michler Jan , Kivioja Jarno , Bach Karsten , Kisele Samanta , Kim James , Dietrich Sascha , Bornhauser Beat , Wong Wendy Wei-Lynn , Becher Burkhard , Moor Andreas , Lewis Joe David , Ficht Xenia Maria , Lu Junyan , Huber Wolfgang , Zenz Thorsten
Published: January 2025

T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL) is an aggressive lymphoid malignancy with limited treatment options. To discover new treatment targets for T-PLL, we performed high-throughput drug sensitivity screening on 30 primary patient samples ex-vivo. After screening over 2'800 unique compounds, we found T-PLL to be more resistant to most drug classes, including chemotherapeutics, compared to other blood cancers. Furthermore, we discovered previously not reported vulnerabilities of T-PLL. T-PLL cells exhibited a particular sensitivity to drugs targeting autophagy (thapsigargin, bafilomycin A1), nuclear export (selinexor), and inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) (birinapant), sensitivities that were also shared by other T-cell malignancies. Through bulk and single-cell RNA-Sequencing we found these compounds to activate the toll-like-receptor (TLR) (bafilomycin A1), p53 (selinexor), and TNF-ɑ/NFκB signaling pathways (birinapant) in T-PLL cells. Focussing on birinapant for its potential in drug repurposing, we uncovered that IAP inhibitor-induced cell death was primarily necroptotic and dependent on TNF-ɑ. Through spectral flow cytometry we confirmed the absence of cleaved caspase-3 in IAP inhibitor treated T-PLL cells and show that IAP inhibition reduces the proliferation of T-PLL cells stimulated ex-vivo, while showing only a limited effect on non-malignant T-cells. In summary, our study maps the drug sensitivity of T-PLL across a broad range of targets and identifies new therapeutic approaches for T-PLL by targeting IAPs, XPO1 and autophagy, highlighting potential candidates for drug repurposing and novel treatment strategies.
Protocol for visual-acoustic intervention with service delivery in-person and via telepractice (VISIT) non-inferiority trial for residual speech sound disorder
Authors: McAllister Tara , Preston Jonathan L. , Hitchcock Elaine R. , Benway Nina R. , Hill Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Background

Residual speech sound disorder (RSSD) is a high-prevalence condition that negatively impacts social and academic participation. Telepractice service delivery has the potential to expand access to technology-enhanced intervention methods that can help remediate RSSD, but it is not known whether remote service delivery is associated with a reduction in the efficacy of these methods. This project will systematically measure the outcomes of visual-acoustic biofeedback intervention when delivered in-person or online.

Methods/design

This project, Visual-acoustic Intervention with Service delivery In-person and via Telepractice (VISIT), aims to treat 76 children in a parallel randomized controlled clinical trial in which children with RSSD will receive visual-acoustic biofeedback treatment either in person or via telepractice. Eligible children will be speakers of American English aged 9–17 years who exhibit RSSD affecting /ɹ/ but otherwise show cognitive-linguistic and hearing abilities within the typical range. All participants will receive twenty sessions of visual-acoustic biofeedback; they will be randomized, with stratification by pre-treatment speech production ability and site, to complete their treatment sessions either in the laboratory setting or at home via telepractice. For the primary outcome measure, blinded listeners will evaluate changes in the perceived accuracy of /ɹ/ production after the end of treatment.

Discussion

By comparing outcomes in children randomized to receive a standard course of biofeedback treatment either via telepractice or in-person, this study will provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians seeking flexible service delivery options for a challenging and prevalent condition.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT06517225, 07/23/2024. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06517225.
Psychological stressors of imprisonment and coping of older incarcerated persons: a qualitative interview study
Authors: McLennan Stuart , Meyer Leila , Wangmo Tenzin , Gaab Jens , Elger Bernice , Seaward Helene
Published: January 2025

Background

Imprisonment has a major impact on a person’s psychological well-being. The proportion of older imprisoned persons is dramatically increasing worldwide, and they are likely to have greater physical and mental health needs compared to younger persons in prisons. However, there is currently a lack of research on the psychological stressors and the coping strategies of older imprisoned persons. This study therefore aims to explore the key psychological stressors experienced by older imprisoned persons and their coping strategies.

Methods

Individual semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted between April 2017 and December 2018 with a purposive sample of 79 participants from 2 different groups in Switzerland: older imprisoned persons (n = 50) and mental health professionals (n = 29) with experience working in prisons. Transcripts were analysed using conventional content analysis.

Results

This study has identified various ways in which the prison environment not only undermines older incarcerated persons´ psychological well-being, but also their ability to manage the stress they are experiencing. Two overarching psychological stressors identified were a lack of physical and emotional closeness in social relationships (with prison staff, with other incarcerated persons, and outside of prison), and the loss of autonomy in prison. Participants reported five main ways that older incarcerated persons coped with the psychological stressors in prison: 1) recognising a lack of control over situation, 2) withdrawing and isolating, 3) self-improvement, 4) staying connected to the outside world, and 5) self-expression.

Conclusions

To improve the psychological well-being of older incarcerated persons, there is a need for: specialised training of prison staff regarding hardships that elderly persons can face in prison relationships, encouragement and enablement of social contacts with the outside world, and increasing possibilities for autonomy, new challenges, and thus stimuli within a limited setting.
Micro CT evaluation of marginal discrepancies of endocrown restored molars with different intrapulpal depths and materials of fabrication. (in-vitro study)
Authors: Elagwany Mohamed Aly Mohamed Badr , Hamdy Amina Mohamed , Zohdy Maged Mohamed , Mahrous Aliaa , Tawfik Ahmed , Nabih Soha Osama
Published: January 2025

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different preparation depths (0, 2 and 4 mm) of different restoration designs (classic endocrown design versus overlay design) on marginal adaptation of restorations fabricated of two different restorative materials (lithium disilicate and PEEK).

Materials and methods

Sixty mandibular natural molars were collected as abutments for the restorations of this study, and grouped in three main groups of different cavity depths (0, 2 and 4). Each group was divided into two subgroups according to material of fabrication to (L) for lithium disilicate (IPS emax CAD, Ivoclar vivadent, Switzarland) and (P) for PEEK (Bio-hpp, Bredent, Germany). CAD/CAM milling technology was used for fabrication of restorations. After cementation of restorations over abutments, hydrothermal aging was performed, and then marginal adaptation was evaluated via micro CT technology.

Results

Regarding cavity depths, there was a significant difference between different groups (p < 0.001). The highest value was found in samples with 4 mm extension (84.35 ± 18.16), followed by samples with 2 mm extension (66.52 ± 21.86), while the lowest value was found in samples without pulpal extension (59.41 ± 22.16). Post hoc pairwise comparisons showed samples with 4 mm extension to have a significantly higher value than samples without extension (p < 0.001). Regarding materials of fabrication, PEEK (85.32 ± 12.37) had a significantly higher value than Emax (54.86 ± 20.86) (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Increasing intrapulpal cavity depths increases vertical marginal gap of lithium disilicate or PEEK restorations. Endocrowns fabricated of lithium disilicate show less marginal discrepancies than that of endocrowns fabricated of PEEK.
Exploring the role of the JEEViKA swasthya mitra helpdesk in improving healthcare access: a qualitative study in tertiary healthcare facilities in Bihar, India
Authors: Kumar Pragya , Ahmad Shamshad , Pradhan Narottam , Chaudhary Neha , H. Haripriya , Kumari Sarita , K. G. Naveen , Yadav Akanksha , Jha Rakesh , Parwez Md. Ashraf , Swati Swati , Purty Apolenarius , Somya Somya
Published: January 2025

Background

Rural populations in Bihar, India, face significant healthcare access challenges due to geographical, infrastructural, and financial barriers. The Swasthya Mitra program, initiated by the Bihar Rural Livelihood Promotion Society in collaboration with local and international partners, aims to mitigate these challenges by employing trained community members to navigate patients through the healthcare system.

Methods

This qualitative study employed in-depth interview and thematic analysis to evaluate the Swasthya Mitra program in the Bhagalpur and Jamui districts in Bihar, India. The participants included Swasthya Mitras, healthcare professionals, and beneficiaries. This study focused on understanding the role of Swasthya Mitras in facilitating healthcare services.

Findings

The program improved healthcare access for rural populations, with beneficiaries reporting reduced navigational confusion, decreased out-of-pocket expenditures, and enhanced patient care. Swasthya Mitras bridged the gap between the community and healthcare facilities. The program also empowered women, both Swasthya Mitras and beneficiaries, by improving their access to healthcare and increasing their involvement in health-related decision-making.

Interpretation

The Swasthya Mitra program may offer a viable model for improving healthcare access in rural settings, demonstrating the importance of community involvement in healthcare delivery. The findings suggested that such programs can be instrumental in overcoming barriers to healthcare access and reducing financial burdens on vulnerable populations.

Funding

The study was supported by the Bihar Rural Livelihood Promotion Society supported by the World Bank and Project Concern Internation India.
How does digital literacy affect the health status of senior citizens? Micro-level evidence from the CFPS data
Authors: Chen Xiaoyi , Wang Nian
Published: January 2025

Background

The popularization of the Internet and digital technology has called for higher digital literacy among citizens, especially the elderly. However, most existing studies didn’t measure digital literacy at the micro level, and the impact mechanism has rarely been discussed. The purpose of this study is to clarify whether and how digital literacy affects the health status of senior citizens.

Methods

The data used in this study are collected from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) from three periods: 2016, 2018, and 2020. The balanced panel data comprised 7836 samples, with 2612 samples per year. Based on the CFPS data, this study constructs a balanced panel and employs a two-way fixed-effects model for the estimation. The instrumental variable (IV) method is employed for tackling the endogenous problems. Next, the mediation effect model is applied to identify the influencing mechanism.

Results

First, digital literacy can improve the health status of senior citizens. This result remains valid after introducing lagged explanatory variables and addressing the endogeneity issues. Second, social support acts as a partial mediator in the relationship between digital literacy and the health status of senior citizens. Third, the heterogeneity analysis reveals that the effect of digital literacy on the health status of senior citizens varies across age groups, urban–rural types, and education levels.

Conclusions

This study examines the impact of digital literacy on the health status of senior citizens at the micro-level and identifies the mediation mechanism. The results enhance our understanding of the positive effects of digitalization on aging society and offer useful insights for the government in formulating more targeted active aging strategies.
Performance of 1-year-old camel calves fed a basal ration of alfalfa hay supplemented with different levels of concentrate
Authors: Askar Ahmed R. , Darwesh Rawia , Allam Sabbah , Abdul Aziz Galal M. , El Shereef Afaf A. , Eid Ehab Y. , Kandil Hamedi M. , El Ezz Samir S. Abou , Shoukry Mohsen M.
Published: January 2025

Background

The use of a high-concentrate diet in fattening camels may have significant effects on growth performance and digestion as well as economic returns. This experiment was designed to study the effects of feeding different levels of concentrate in their diet on growth performance and digestion in a desert climate.

Methods

Eighteen 12-month-old male camel calves were used, and divided into three treatments of six each. The concentrate was administered based on their body weight (BW) at 0.7 (low), 1.0 (medium), and 1.3% (high), with free access to alfalfa and water. The experiment lasted for 6 months, in which digestibility trials took place at 14, 16, and 18 months of age, which corresponded to 2, 4, and 6 months of the experimental period.

Results

No significant variations were observed in final BW, BW changes, or average daily gain among feeding treatments. Increasing the concentrate level had a negative effect on roughage intake, impacting the roughage-to-concentrate ratio (P < 0.05) and neutral detergent fiber digestibility (P < 0.05). Increasing concentrate levels significantly increased total intake (P < 0.05), leading to a worse feed conversion ratio (P < 0.05). However, animal age had no negative effect on nutrient digestibility, and there were no interactions between concentrate supplement level and animal age. Significant increases in plasma total protein (P < 0.05) and urea (P < 0.05) were observed when the leve lof concentrate was increased. A similar trend was observed in rumen ammonia concentration. Camel calves fed low vs. medium or high levels of concentrate showed a greater rumen pH (P < 0.05), which was linked to a lower concentration of volatile fatty acids (P < 0.010).

Conclusions

The present study concluded that yearling camel calves receiving different levels of concentrate with ad lib alfalfa hay could cover their nutrient requirements for maintenance and growth with a daily gain of 630 g/day when the level of concentrate was limited to 0.7% of BW and the total intake was only around 1.65% of BW, or 70.6 g/kg metabolic BW.
Immunomodulatory effect of efferocytosis at the maternal–fetal interface
Authors: Tao Hui , Ma Ruilin , Cui Jianjian , Yang Zejun , He Wencong , Li Yanan , Zhao Yin
Published: January 2025

Efferocytosis is a mechanism by which phagocytes efficiently clear apoptotic cells, averting their secondary necrosis and the subsequent release of potentially immunogenic or cytotoxic substances that can trigger strong immune and inflammatory responses. During efferocytosis, the metabolic pathways of phagocytes are transformed, which, along with the catabolism of apoptotic cargo, can affect their function and inflammatory state. Extensive apoptosis occurs during placental development, and some studies reported the immunomodulatory effects of efferocytosis at the maternal–fetal interface. The dysregulation of efferocytosis is strongly linked to pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and recurrent spontaneous abortion. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of efferocytosis and its relationships with metabolism and inflammation. We also highlight the roles of professional and non-professional phagocytes in efferocytosis at the maternal–fetal interface and their impact on pregnancy outcomes and explore relevant regulatory factors. These insights are expected to guide future basic research and clinical strategies for identifying efferocytosis-related molecules as potential predictors or therapeutic targets in obstetric diseases.
Characteristics of TSPO expression in marmoset EAE
Authors: Falk Irene , Maric Dragan , Leibovitch Emily , Sati Pascal , Lefeuvre Jennifer , Luciano Nicholas J. , Guy Joseph , Ha Seung-Kwon , Owen David R. , Aigbirhio Franklin , Matthews Paul M. , Reich Daniel S. , Jacobson Steven
Published: January 2025

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) and is a leading non-traumatic cause of disability in young adults. The 18 kDa Translocator Protein (TSPO) is a mitochondrial protein and positron emission tomography (PET)-imaging target that is highly expressed in MS brain lesions. It is used as an inflammatory biomarker and has been proposed as a therapeutic target. However, its specific pathological significance in humans is not well understood. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in the common marmoset is a well-established primate model of MS. Studying TSPO expression in this model will enhance our understanding of its expression in MS. This study therefore characterizes patterns of TSPO expression in fixed CNS tissues from one non-EAE control marmoset and 8 EAE marmosets using multiplex immunofluorescence. In control CNS tissue, we find that TSPO is expressed in the leptomeninges, ependyma, and over two-thirds of Iba1 + microglia, but not astrocytes or neurons. In Iba1 + cells in both control and acute EAE tissue, we find that TSPO is co-expressed with markers of antigen presentation (CD74), early activation (MRP14), phagocytosis (CD163) and anti-inflammatory phenotype (Arg1); a high level of TSPO expression is not restricted to a particular microglial phenotype. While TSPO is expressed in over 88% of activated Iba1 + cells in acute lesions in marmoset EAE, it also is sometimes observed in subsets of astrocytes and neurons. Additionally, we find the percentage of Iba1 + cells expressing TSPO declines significantly in lesions > 5 months old and may be as low as 13% in chronic lesions. However, we also find increased astrocytic TSPO expression in chronic-appearing lesions with astrogliosis. Finally, we find expression of TSPO in a subset of neurons, most frequently GLS2 + glutamatergic neurons. The shift in TSPO expression from Iba + microglia/macrophages to astrocytes over time is similar to patterns suggested by earlier neuropathology studies in MS. Thus, marmoset EAE appears to be a clinically relevant model for the study of TSPO in immune dysregulation in human disease.

Graphical Abstract
Lipidome disruption in Alzheimer’s disease brain: detection, pathological mechanisms, and therapeutic implications
Authors: He Sijia , Xu Ziying , Han Xianlin
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is among the most devastating neurodegenerative disorders with limited treatment options. Emerging evidence points to the involvement of lipid dysregulation in the development of AD. Nevertheless, the precise lipidomic landscape and the mechanistic roles of lipids in disease pathology remain poorly understood. This review aims to highlight the significance of lipidomics and lipid-targeting approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of AD. We summarized the connection between lipid dysregulation in the human brain and AD at both genetic and lipid species levels. We briefly introduced lipidomics technologies and discussed potential challenges and areas of future advancements in the lipidomics field for AD research. To elucidate the central role of lipids in converging multiple pathological aspects of AD, we reviewed the current knowledge on the interplay between lipids and major AD features, including amyloid beta, tau, and neuroinflammation. Finally, we assessed the progresses and obstacles in lipid-based therapeutics and proposed potential strategies for leveraging lipidomics in the treatment of AD.
Stress hyperglycemia ratio as an important predictive indicator for severe disturbance of consciousness and all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with cerebral infarction: a retrospective study using the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Li Xiaosheng , Guo Li , Zhou Yuzhen , Yuan Churan , Yin Yong
Published: January 2025

Background

Stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) has been linked to prognosis of cerebrovascular diseases. Nevertheless, the association between SHR and severe disturbance of consciousness (DC) and mortality among patients with cerebral infarction remains explored. This study seeks to assess the predictive potential of SHR for severe DC and mortality among patients with cerebral infarction.

Methods

We identified individuals diagnosed with cerebral infarction within the MIMIC-IV database. We employed logistic regression to examine the correlation between the SHR index and the severity of patients' consciousness disturbance, as well as in-hospital mortality. Furthermore, we employed restricted cubic spline curves to explore potential non-linear relationships between the SHR index and outcome measures. To assess the predictive performance of the SHR index and admission blood sugar level on outcome indicators, we compared receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

A non-linear relationship existed between SHR and the risk of severe disturbance of consciousness, while there was a linear relationship with all-cause mortality. The AUC value for predicting severe disturbance of consciousness by the SHR index is 0.5419 (95% CI: 0.5188–0.5661). The AUC value for predicting in-hospital mortality based on the SHR index is 0.6264 (95% CI: 0.5881–0.6662). It is superior to single admission blood sugar level. In addition, SHR has an incremental impact on evaluating various diseases in predicting severe disturbance of consciousness and all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with cerebral infarction.

Conclusions

SHR is an important predictive indicator for severe disturbance of consciousness and all-cause mortality of patients with cerebral infarction.

Graphical Abstract
Extrapolation of cavitation and hydrodynamic pressure in lubricated contacts: a physics-informed neural network approach
Authors: Brumand-Poor Faras , Azanledji Freddy Kokou , Plückhahn Nils , Barlog Florian , Boden Lukas , Schmitz Katharina
Published: January 2025

A comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of tribological interactions is essential for enhancing efficiency and durability in a multitude of technical domains. Conventional experimental techniques in tribology are frequently costly and time-consuming. In contrast, elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) simulation models present a viable alternative for calculating frictional forces in sealing contacts. These calculations are based on the hydrodynamics within the sealing contact, as defined by the Reynolds equation, the deformation of the seal, and the contact mechanics. However, a significant drawback of these simulations is the time-consuming calculation process. To overcome these experimental and computational limitations, machine learning algorithms offer a promising solution. Physics-informed machine learning (PIML) improves on traditional data-driven models by incorporating physical principles. In particular, physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) are as effective hybrid solvers that combine data-driven and physics-based methods to solve the partial differential equations that drive EHL simulations. By integrating physical laws into the parameter optimization of the neural network (NN), PINNs provide accurate and fast solutions. Thus, unlike traditional NNs, PINNs have the potential to make accurate predictions beyond the limited training domain. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of spatial and temporal extrapolation of the PINN and to analyze its reliability, both with and without consideration of cavitation. Two test cases are employed to examine the pressure and cavitation distribution within a sealing contact that extends beyond the spatial and temporal training range. The findings indicate that PINNs can surmount the typical constraints associated with NNs in the extrapolation of solution spaces, which represents a notable advancement in terms of computational efficiency and model flexibility.
A probabilistic model-based approach to assess and minimize scaling in geothermal plants
Authors: Shoeibi Omrani Pejman , Poort Jonah , Barros Eduardo G. D. , de Zwart Hidde , Machado Cintia Gonçalves , Wasch Laura , Twerda Aris , Rijnaarts Huub H. M. , Shariat Torbaghan Shahab
Published: January 2025

Geothermal installations often face operational challenges related to scaling which can lead to loss in production, downtime, and an increase in operational costs. To accurately assess and minimize the risks associated with scaling, it is crucial to understand the interplay between geothermal brine composition, operating conditions, and pipe materials. The accuracy of scaling predictive models can be impacted by uncertainties in the brine composition, stemming from sub-optimal sampling of geothermal fluid, inhibitor addition, or measurement imprecision. These uncertainties can be further increased for fluid at extreme conditions especially high salinity and temperature. This paper describes a comprehensive method to determine operational control strategies to minimize the scaling considering brine composition uncertainties. The proposed modelling framework to demonstrate the optimization under uncertainty workflow consists of a multiphase flow solver coupled with a geochemistry model and an uncertainty quantification workflow to locally estimate the probability of precipitation potential, including its impact on the hydraulic efficiency of the geothermal plant by increasing the roughness and/or decreasing the diameter of the casings and pipelines. For plant operation optimization, a robust control problem is formulated with scenarios which are generated based on uncertainties in brine composition using an exhaustive search method. The modelling and optimization workflow was demonstrated in a geothermal case study dealing with barite and celestite scaling in a heat exchanger. The results showed the additional insights in the potential impact of brine composition uncertainties (aleatoric uncertainties) in scaling potential and precipitation location. Comparing the outcome of optimization problem for the deterministic and fluid composition uncertainties, a change of up to 2.5% in the temperature control settings was observed to achieve the optimal coefficient of performance.
hUC-MSC preserves erectile function by restoring mitochondrial mass of penile smooth muscle cells in a rat model of cavernous nerve injury via SIRT1/PGC-1a/TFAM signaling
Authors: Yang Mengbo , Chen Xinda , Zhang Ming , Zhang Xiaolin , Xiao Dongdong , Xu Huiming , Lu Mujun
Published: January 2025

Background

Cavernous nerve injury-induced erectile dysfunction (CNI-ED) is a common complication following radical prostatectomy and severely affects patients’ quality of life. The mitochondrial impairment in corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) may be an important pathological mechanism of CNI-ED. Previous studies have shown that transplantation of human adipose derived stem cells (ADSC) can alleviate CNI-ED in a rat model. However, little is known about the effect of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSC) on CNI-ED. It remains unclear whether hUC-MSC can ameliorate mitochondrial damage in CCSMCs. In this study, we aimed to investigate the impacts of hUC-MSC on the mitochondrial mass and function of CCSMCs, as well as elucidate its underlying molecular mechanism.

Methods

The CNI-ED rat model was established by bilaterally crushing cavernous nerves. Subsequently, hUC-MSC were transplanted into the cavernosum and ADSC were injected as a positive control group. Erectile function evaluation and histological detection were performed 4 weeks after cell transplantation. In vitro, CCSMCs underwent hypoxia and were then co-cultured with ADSC or hUC-MSC using a transwell system. The mitochondrial mass and function, as well as signaling pathways, were investigated. To explore the role of the SIRT1/PGC-1α/TFAM pathway in regulating mitochondrial biogenesis of CCSMCs, we knocked down SIRT1 by siRNA.

Results

The administration of hUC-MSC significantly improved erectile function of CNI-ED rats and reduced the ratio of collagen to smooth muscle. Specifically, hUC-MSC treatment restored mitochondrial mass and function in CCSMCs injured by CNI or hypoxia, and inhibited the apoptosis of CCSMCs. Mechanistically, the application of hUC-MSC activated SIRT1/PGC-1α/TFAM pathway both in rat penile tissues and CCSMCs. In addition, knockdown of SIRT1 in CCSMCs abolished the protective effects of hUC-MSC on mitochondrial mass and function, while leading to an increase in cellular apoptosis.

Conclusions

hUC-MSC contribute to the recovery of erectile function in CNI-ED rats by restoring mitochondrial mass and function of CCSMCs through the SIRT1/PGC-1α/TFAM pathway. Our present study offers new insights into the role and molecular mechanisms of hUC-MSC in regulating mitochondrial homeostasis, thereby facilitating the restoration of the erectile function in CNI-ED.