bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defence Engagement (Health) between the UK and Ireland since the Good Friday Agreement in 1998
Authors: Moore A J L , McCrory B , Corcoran A , Guckian N , Bergin S , McCloskey C , Bricknell M , Kelly J
Published: May 2024

This paper describes the range of Defence Engagement (Health) (DE(H)) activities between Northern Ireland and Ireland following the Good Friday Agreement in April 1998. Although the Agreement made provision for cross-border cooperation in health, the Omagh bombing of August 1998 energised the discussion to provide greater co-ordination of future responses to mass casualty events. The paper describes these DE(H) activities at the Strategic, Operational and Tactical levels to show the integration across these levels and between the agencies of both governments. The paper shows how a DE(H) programme can have a successful strategic effect by finding topics of mutual interest that can bring together two countries in order to provide an effective health and social care provision. This paper forms part of a special issue ofBMJ Military Healthdedicated to Defence Engagement (.
Secular trends in gabapentinoid dispensing by compensated workers with low back pain: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mathieson Stephanie , Collie Alex , Maher Christopher G , Abdel Shaheed Christina , Xia Ting , Gilbert Stephen , Ferreira Giovanni E , Di Donato Michael F
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The increase in gabapentinoid prescribing is paralleling the increase in serious harms. To describe the low back pain workers compensation population whose management included a gabapentinoid between 2010 and 2017, and determine secular trends in, and factors associated with gabapentinoid use.

Methods

We analysed claim-level and service-level data from the Victorian workers’ compensation programme between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2017 for workers with an accepted claim for a low back pain injury and who had programme-funded gabapentinoid dispensing. Secular trends were calculated as a proportion of gabapentinoid dispensings per year. Poisson, negative binomial and Cox hazards models were used to examine changes over time in incidence and time to first dispensing.

Results

Of the 17 689 low back pain claimants, one in seven (14.7%) were dispensed at least one gabapentinoid during the first 2 years (n=2608). The proportion of workers who were dispensed a gabapentinoid significantly increased over time (7.9% in 2010 to 18.7% in 2017), despite a reduction in the number of claimants dispensed pain-related medicines. Gabapentinoid dispensing was significantly associated with an opioid analgesic or anti-depressant dispensing claim, but not claimant-level characteristics. The time to first gabapentinoid dispensing significantly decreased over time from 311.9 days (SD 200.7) in 2010 to 148.2 days (SD 183.1) in 2017.

Conclusions

The proportion of claimants dispensed a gabapentinoid more than doubled in the period 2010–2017; and the time to first dispensing halved during this period.
Exploring the relationship between embolic acute stroke distribution and supra-aortic vessel patency: key findings from an in vitro model study
Authors: Velasco Gonzalez Aglae , Sauerland Cristina , Görlich Dennis , Ortega-Quintanilla Joaquin , Jeibmann Astrid , Faldum Andreas , Paulus Werner , Heindel Walter , Buerke Boris
Published: May 2024

Background

We investigated differences in intracranial embolus distribution through communicating arteries in relation to supra-aortic vessel (SAV) patency.

Methods

For this experimental analysis, we created a silicone model of the extracranial and intracranial circulations using a blood-mimicking fluid under physiological pulsatile flow. We examined the sequence of embolus lodgment on injecting 104 frangible clot analogues (406 emboli) through the right internal carotid artery (CA) as SAV patency changed: (a) all SAV patent (baseline), (b) emboli from a CA occlusion, (c) emboli contralateral to a CA occlusion and (d) occlusion of the posterior circulation. The statistical analysis included a descriptive analysis of thrombi location after occlusion (absolute and relative frequencies). Sequences of occlusions were displayed in Sankey flow charts for the four SAV conditions. Associations between SAV conditions and occlusion location were tested by Fisher’s exact test. Two-sided p values were compared with a significance level of 0.05.

Results

The total number of emboli was 406 (median fragments/clot: 4 (IQR: 3–5)). Embolus lodgment was dependent on SAV patency (p<0.0001). In all scenarios, embolism lodging in the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) occurred after a previous middle cerebral artery (MCA) embolism (MCA first lodge: 96%, 100/104). The rate of ipsilateral ACA embolism was 28.9% (28/97) at baseline, decreasing significantly when emboli originated from an occluded CA (16%, 14/88). There were more bihemispheric embolisations in cases of contralateral CA occlusion (37%, 45/122), with bilateral ACA embolisms preceding contralateral MCA embolism in 56% of cases (14/25 opposite MCA and ACA embolism).

Conclusions

All emboli in the ACA occurred after a previous ipsilateral MCA embolism. Bihemispheric embolisms were rare, except when there was a coexisting occlusion in either CA, particularly in cases of a contralateral CA occlusion.
Cisternal and intraventricular irrigation in subarachnoid and intraventricular haemorrhage
Authors: Lind Allice Nyborg Rosenkrans , Krabbenhøft Mathias Green , Valentin Jan Brink , Haldrup Mette , Dyrskog Stig , Rasmussen Mads , Simonsen Claus Ziegler , Korshoej Anders Rosendal
Published: May 2024

Background

Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) and intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) are associated with poor patient outcomes. Intraventricular fibrinolysis is effective in clearing IVH and improving patient survival and neurological outcome. By similar rationale, cisternal irrigation has been proposed as a potential method to accelerate haematoma clearance in SAH. We aimed to provide a comprehensive review and meta-analysis evaluating the effect of intraventricular and cisternal irrigation on clinical outcomes in patients with SAH and IVH.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed preparing this systematic review and study selection was performed by multiple investigators. We extracted ORs from the individual studies and aggregated these using a random effects model. The quality of evidence was evaluated using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations assessment and ROBINS-I or RoB-2.

Results

24 articles were included. In SAH, we found that cisternal irrigation with fibrinolytic agents was associated with reduced mortality (OR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.00), higher probability of favourable functional outcome (OR: 1.80, 95% CI 1.30 to 2.51), and reduced risks of DCI (OR: 0.28, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.42) and cerebral vasospasm (OR: 0.28, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.42), compared with conventional therapy. Cisternal irrigation with vasodilatory agents was associated with lower mortality (OR: 0.32, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.79) and reduced risk of cerebral vasospasm (OR: 0.37, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.79). The evidence for irrigation therapy of IVH was sparse and insufficient to show any significant effect.

Conclusion

In this study, we found that cisternal irrigation could improve the prognosis in patients with SAH compared with conventional therapy. There is no evidence to support cisternal irrigation treatment of IVH.
Sex-specific considerations in cardiovascular drug therapy
Authors: Rabinovich-Nikitin Inna , Liu Shuangbo , Kirshenbaum Lorrie A.
Published: May 2024

Despite major advances in cardiac research over the past three decades, cardiovascular disease (CVD) still remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in women and men worldwide. However, a major challenge for health care providers is that the current guidelines for cardiovascular drug therapies do not consider the impact of sex in the development of treatment plan for optimizing therapies for women. Clinical research in recent years suggests significant pharmacological and pharmacokinetic differences between females and males, which have been attributed in part to differences in body composition, plasma protein binding capacity, drug metabolism, and excretion. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review regarding sex-specific differences and drugs commonly used for CVDs in women and men. Understanding how sex-related differences influence drug efficacy and CVD outcomes is crucial for not only optimizing treatment strategies for women and men but also to encourage the implementation of specific guidelines that address sex difference as a consideration for the treatment of CVDs.
Review of isomers in the $$A ~\approx ~135$$ region and nuclear shape evolution
Authors: Palit R. , Laskar Md. S. R. , Nag S. , Choudhury D. , Goel N. , Singh S. , Mishra S. N.
Published: May 2024

The measurements of lifetimes and electromagnetic moments of the isomeric states in some of the nuclei around $$A\approx$$

A
≈

135 carried out at BARC-TIFR Pelletron Linac Facility at TIFR, Mumbai, are highlighted. The results from these measurements, along with similar studies reported in the literature, provide a wealth of nuclear structure information in Ba, La, and Ce isotopes in the $$A \approx$$

A
≈

135 region. Comparison of the measured moments with the calculations gives a unique testing ground for the predictive power of the nuclear models. Plans for similar studies in other mass regions are also described at the end.
Sourcing Channel Decision in the Presence of Platform Encroachment with Quantity Competition
Authors: Zhong Qinjia , Wang Jianjun , Xie Jiaqian , Lai Xiaofan
Published: May 2024

The decision of sourcing channels is a critical strategy for online retail platforms (ORs) when they encroach into the product market of the third-party retailers (3PRs). Whether the products of the OR are provided by the common supplier or the one different from that of the 3PR leads to different supply chain structures. This paper focuses on the sourcing channel decision of an encroaching OR given the sourcing channel of a 3PR. The OR may source either from the common supplier, i.e., the same supplier as that of the 3PR, or from a different supplier, i.e., one different from that of the 3PR. This paper develops two game-theoretical models to examine the sourcing channel decision of an OR in quantity competition with a 3PR on the platform. The results show that the OR’s preference for the sourcing channel is significantly affected by the production cost, product substitutability and commission rate. By comparing the performances of the OR under these two sourcing channels, we find that when the production cost of the different supplier is very low, or when the product substitutability of the different supplier is low, or when the commission rate is either very low or very high, the OR prefers to source from the different supplier. Otherwise, the OR tends to source from the common supplier. We also find that the OR’s encroachment into the sales market of a 3PR by sourcing from the common supplier will always hurt the 3PR, but the platform encroachment by sourcing from the different supplier will not necessarily hurt, especially when the supplier selected by the OR has a significant disadvantage in production cost compared to those of the 3PR. Furthermore, when the OR encroaches by sourcing from the common supplier, it becomes the largest retailer in the market; otherwise, the 3PR is the largest retailer in that market. Our results also indicate that platform encroachment by different sourcing can not only expand the sales market, but also weaken the negative effects of platform encroachment on the profit of the 3PR.
Portfolio Selection Based on Mean-Generalized Variance Analysis: Evidence from the G20 Stock Markets
Authors: Li Zongxin , Hui Yongchang , Wong Wing-Keung , Lin Ruiyue
Published: May 2024

Modern finance theories have been increasingly paying attention to nonlinear and asymmetric features of stock returns. In this paper, we extend the concept of covariance to generalized covariance by using Generalized Measure of Correlation (GMC). Based on the generalized covariance which is capable of catching the nonlinearity and asymmetry in stock (index) returns, we propose a mean-generalized variance portfolio selection model which considers the gross-exposure constraint. Furthermore, we propose the corresponding nonparametric estimation approach and the global optimization algorithm to enhance the applicability of our new model. Empirical studies on G20 stock markets support that a portfolio considering nonlinear and asymmetric features among the international markets would outperform traditional ones based on mean-variance optimization and equal weighting strategy in terms of return and flexibility.
The quasiprimitive almost elusive groups
Authors: Hall Emily V.
Published: May 2024

Let G be a nontrivial transitive permutation group on a finite set [Formula: see text] and recall that an element of G is a derangement if it has no fixed points. Derangements always exist by a classical theorem of Jordan, but there are so-called elusive groups that do not contain any derangements of prime order. In a recent paper, Burness and the author introduced the family of almost elusive groups, which contain a unique conjugacy class of derangements of prime order. In this paper, we complete the classification of the quasiprimitive almost elusive groups.
THE FRACTAL RHEOLOGY OF MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL ELASTOMERS DESCRIBED THROUGH THE MODIFIED ZENER MODEL AND THE COLE–COLE PLOT
Authors: PALACIOS-PINEDA LUIS M. , ELÍAS-ZÚÑIGA ALEX , PERALES-MARTÍNEZ I. A. , MARTÍNEZ-ROMERO ÓSCAR , OLVERA-TREJO DANIEL
Published: May 2024

The main objective of this study focuses on using, for the first time, the Cole–Cole semilogarithmic fractal plot to study the fractal rheological behavior of magnetorheological elastomer materials using the fractional Zener model. Experimental data and theoretical results show that the Cole–Cole semilogarithmic fractal plot predicts the Zener mathematical model’s material parameters. This paper elucidates the benefits of using Cole–Cole semilogarithmic fractal plots to accurately predict material rheological properties of composite elastomer reinforced with nano or microiron particles observed during experimental tests.
Impact Experiment and Buckling Criterion Analysis of Thin-Walled Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Hu Quansheng , Li Siyang , Li Yilei , Xue Qichao , Wang Yonghui , Li Qi , Zhuang Zixin , Guan Muyu
Published: May 2024

The impact test of tubular components is usually carried out by way of drop hammer impact. In fact, in many ships’ equipment, the form of load is often carried out by way of drop impact test. In this paper, the drop impact test is used to study the buckling of tubular structure under impact load, so as to make it closer to the impact form of components in actual ship structure. Firstly, the stress, strain, acceleration at each moment and the buckling deformation mode of the tubular member after the impact are obtained through the drop impact experiment, and then the impact process is analyzed. Secondly, the finite element method is used for numerical simulation of the impact process, and the accuracy of the finite element analysis results is verified by comparing with it. Thirdly, the finite element method proved to be effective and was used to simulate single and multiple drop impacts under more working conditions, and a large amount of data was obtained. Finally, according to the existing impact criteria based on the results of drop weight impact, it is applied to the drop impact process, and the accuracy of each impact criterion is analyzed and compared. This method makes up for the deficiency of the traditional experimental method of using falling weight to simulate impact, and provides a reference for the critical buckling condition of similar thin-walled cylindrical shells under impact.
A reciprocity theorem for the Cohen–Ramanujan sums and its application to Cohen–Ramanujan expansions
Authors: Sivadasan Vinod , Namboothiri K. Vishnu
Published: May 2024

For an arithmetical function f, its Ramanujan expansion is a series expansion in the form [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] are complex numbers and [Formula: see text] is the Ramanujan sum. Here, we prove a reciprocity result on Cohen–Ramanujan sums [Formula: see text] to change the position of k and n in a twisted function and use it to prove that for certain arithmetical functions f, Cohen–Ramanujan series expansions in the form [Formula: see text] exist if and only if expansions in the form [Formula: see text] exist.
On multiplicative dependent vectors with coordinates from certain higher order recurrences
Authors: Behera Mitashree , Ray Prasanta Kumar
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we prove that there are finitely many multiplicative dependent vectors with coordinates from non-degenerate linear recurrence sequences [Formula: see text] of a fixed order [Formula: see text] These sequences satisfy the recurrence relation [Formula: see text] with initials [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text]. Here, the coefficients of the recurrence relation are positive integers satisfying [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] In both these conditions, [Formula: see text]
Two-torsion subgroups of some modular Jacobians
Authors: Lupoian Elvira
Published: May 2024

We give a practical method to compute the 2-torsion subgroup of the Jacobian of a non-hyperelliptic curve of genus 3, 4 or 5. The method is based on the correspondence between the 2-torsion subgroup and the theta hyperplanes to the curve. The correspondence is used to explicitly write down a zero-dimensional scheme whose points correspond to elements of the 2-torsion subgroup. Using p-adic or complex approximations (obtained via Hensel lifting or homotopy continuation and Newton–Raphson) and lattice reduction we are then able to determine the points of our zero-dimensional scheme and hence the 2-torsion points. We demonstrate the practicality of our method by computing the 2-torsion of the modular Jacobians [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. As a result of this we are able to verify the generalized Ogg conjecture for these values.
Absolute zeta functions arising from ceiling and floor Puiseux polynomials
Authors: Hirakawa Yoshinosuke , Tomita Takuki
Published: May 2024

For the [Formula: see text]-lift [Formula: see text] of a monoid scheme X of finite type, Deitmar et al. calculated its absolute zeta function by interpolating [Formula: see text] for all prime powers q using the Fourier expansion. This absolute zeta function coincides with the absolute zeta function of a certain polynomial. In this paper, we characterize the polynomial as a ceiling polynomial of the sequence [Formula: see text], which we introduce independently. Extending this idea, we introduce a certain pair of absolute zeta functions of a separated scheme X of finite type over [Formula: see text] by means of a pair of Puiseux polynomials which estimate “[Formula: see text]” for sufficiently large p. We call them the ceiling and floor Puiseux polynomials of X. In particular, if X is an elliptic curve, then our absolute zeta functions of X do not depend on its isogeny class.
Diagnostic and Evolutionary Models for Spatial Equilibrium Allocation Schemes of Transboundary Water Resources
Authors: Wu Xiaoyuan , Xu Changxin , Wang Wei , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes diagnostic and evolutionary models for the spatial equilibrium allocation of transboundary water resources, aiming to improve the match between riparian countries’ water allocations, and their natural, social and economic factors. The paper develops a two-stage diagnostic model to diagnose the spatial equilibrium for allocation schemes of transboundary water resources. The first stage is the matching diagnosis, and the second stage is the suitability diagnosis, which diagnoses the correctness of the size relationship or size degree of the allocated water volumes in the pair of riparian countries. For allocation schemes that have not passed the diagnosis, this study improves the scheme based on an evolutionary model by establishing rules for adjusting the amount of water. The model is applied to the Lancang–Mekong River basin. The results show that the spatial equilibrium allocation scheme in the Lancang–Mekong River Basin has improved the overall equilibrium of the water quantity allocation scheme of the river basin compared to the existing one, making it more acceptable to riparian countries. Policy recommendations are made on aspects such as improving information exchange platforms and establishing benefit compensation mechanisms. This paper provides a new quantitative analysis method for the allocation of transboundary water resources.
Evaluating the Impact of Road Pedestrianization on Businesses: A Case Study in Singapore
Authors: Wong Yi Jie , Poh Ruth , Koh Lip Wee , Xin Yang , Chng Samuel
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the business impact of pedestrianization in Singapore and provides a framework to assess business impact and recommendations to mitigate business downsides and maximize the benefits of pedestrianization. It consists of onsite business audit and observations, interviews with businesses ([Formula: see text] = 31) and consumers ([Formula: see text] = 102) of Tiong Bahru, and case studies of Little India and Kampong Glam. Results suggest a negative short-term business impact due to decreased accessibility by driving consumers, decreased visibility, and increased operational challenges. Generalized framework and recommendations were developed based on the insights to help planners assess the business impact of pedestrianization schemes and enhance them.
Lamprophyres from the Chhota Udaipur alkaline–carbonatite sub-province, Deccan Large Igneous Province, India: implication for petrogenesis and crustal structure
Authors: Randive Kirtikumar , Jawadand Sanjeevani , Meshram Tushar , Sahu Manoj , Belyatsky Boris , Dora M. L. , Meshram Rajkumar , Kumar J. Vijaya , Dandekar Sneha , Raut Tejashree , Korakoppa Mahesh , Bhutani Rajneesh
Published: May 2024

This paper discusses the petrogenesis of lamprophyre dykes occurring in the Chhota Udaipur Alkaline–Carbonatite Sub-province (CUACS). Both calc-alkaline as well as alkaline varieties occur in the area. The major and trace elements geochemistry of the CUACS lamprophyres display good correlation with each other and other Deccan-related lamprophyres. Trace element ratios reveal a minor role of crustal contamination and support their derivation from partial melting of a lithospheric mantle source that is significantly modified by interaction with asthenosphere-derived melts emanating from an impinging mantle plume. The restricted initial
87
Sr/
86
Sr (0.70599–0.70658) and
143
Nd/
144
Nd (0.512501–0.512513) ratios of the CUACS lamprophyres further attest to their derivation from an ocean island basalts (OIB)-type parental melt. Their negative εNdi values (−1 to −6) are comparable with other lamprophyres of the Deccan Large Igneous Province (LIP). The lamprophyres from the present study share similar geochemical characteristics to Mt Girnar lamprophyres, which are derived from the spinel–garnet transition zone at a depth of ∼85 km, distinct from the previously considered depth (∼100 km) of the post-Deccan lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary (LAB) beneath NW India. Such geochemical characteristics of the Chhota Udaipur lamprophyres indicate a vital role of plume–lithosphere interaction at the thermal boundary layer at about ∼66 Ma.
Small object intelligent Detection method based on Adaptive Cascading Context
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Dailin , Zhang Hongyan , Wang Fengxian , Chen Yiben , Li Linwei
Published: May 2024

With the technology advances, deep learning-based object detection has made unprecedented progress. However, the small spatial ratio of object pixels affects the effective extraction of deep details features, resulting in poor detection results in small object detection. To improve the accuracy of small object detection, an adaptive Cascading Context small (ACC) object detection method is proposed based on YOLOv5. Firstly, a separate shallow layer feature was proposed to obtain more detailed information beneficial to small object detection. Secondly, an adaptive cascade method is proposed to fuse the output features of the three layers of the pyramid to adaptively filter negative semantic information, while fusing with shallow features to solve the problem of low classification accuracy caused by insufficient semantic information of shallow features. Finally, an adaptive context model is proposed to use a deformable convolution to obtain spatial context features of shallow small objects, associating the targets with the background, thereby improving the accuracy of small object detection. The experimental results show that the detection accuracy of the proposed method has been improved by 6.12%, 3.35%, 3.33%, and 5.2%, respectively, compared with the source code on the PASCAL VOC, NWPU VHR-10, KITTI, and RSOD datasets, which fully demonstrate the effectiveness of our method in small object detection.
Domain Adaptive Thermal Object Detection with Unbiased Granularity Alignment
Authors: Shi Caijuan , Zheng Yuanfan , Chen Zhen
Published: May 2024

Domain Adaptive Object Detection (DAOD) alleviates the challenge of labor-intensive annotations by transferring semantic information from a labeled source domain to an unlabeled target domain. However, the DAOD suffers from biased discrimination and negative transfer in the thermal domain due to the inherent heterogeneity between the RGB and thermal images. To address the above issues, we propose the Unbiased Granularity Alignment (UGA) framework to facilitate the unified alignment for RGB-Thermal DAOD. Specifically, we devise a Channel Self-encoding Adaptation (CSA) module to mitigate biased discrimination from the discriminative enhancement perspective. CSA aligns the intra-domain channel subspace for inter-domain channel harmonizing. Upon revisiting instance alignment, we uncovered inaccuracies proposals and unstable positive sample phenomena. Therefore, we propose the Relative Relationship Adaptation (RRA) module to mitigate negative transfer. RRA ensures inter-domain semantic consistency through sparse instance alignment. Extensive experiments are conducted on visible-to-thermal and visible-to-visible benchmarks to validate the effectiveness, and our UGA framework outperforms state-of-the-art by a remarkable margin. The code of our UGA is available at
https://github.com/zyfone/UGA
.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cells with 3D Inkjet Printing Modified LSM-YSZ Interface
Authors: Jenkins C. , Tian J. , Dou Y. , Nian Q. , Milcarek R. J.
Published: May 2024

In this study, pillar shaped yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) 3D microstructures with ∼60 to 90 μm diameter and 12 to 20 μm height are fabricated by 3D inkjet printing to improve the topology of the electrolyte/cathode interface. The microstructures increase the surface area of the cell by ∼2.4% to 4.0% and enhance the connection between the dense YSZ electrolyte and mixed YSZ-lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM) cathode. The morphology and microstructure of the YSZ interface are characterized with scanning electron microscopy. Polarization curves confirm that the power density improves by 47% to 107% at 0.55 V, depending on the dimensions of the microstructures, in comparison to a flat interface. The non-linear improvement in power density with the size of microstructures is confirmed by calculating the uncertainty with repeated tests. Based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and distribution of relaxation times analysis, the performance improvement is attributed to changes in the oxygen surface exchange kinetics and O2− diffusivity in the cathode.
Zn2+ improves sepsis-induced acute kidney injury by upregulating SIRT7-mediated Parkin acetylation
Authors: Guo Jun , Yuan Zhenhui , Wang Rong
Published: May 2024

Zn2+ upregulated Parkin acetylation by repressing sirtuin 7 activity to promote mitophagy and inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis, thus improving sepsis-induced acute kidney injury.
The influence of sex, hemoglobin mass, and skeletal muscle characteristics on cycling critical power
Authors: Caswell Allison M. , Tripp Thomas R. , Kontro Hilkka , Edgett Brittany A. , Wiley J. Preston , Lun Victor , MacInnis Martin J.
Published: May 2024

In males and females matched for aerobic fitness [maximal oxygen uptake normalized to fat-free mass (FFM)], absolute critical power (CP) was greater in males, but relative CP (per kilogram body mass or FFM) was similar between sexes. CP correlated with hemoglobin mass, mitochondrial protein content, myosin heavy chain type I proportion, and skeletal muscle oxidative capacity. These findings demonstrate the importance of matching sexes for aerobic fitness, but further experiments are needed to determine causality.
Sexual dimorphisms in skeletal muscle: current concepts and research horizons
Authors: Emmert Marianne E. , Emmert Andrew S. , Goh Qingnian , Cornwall Roger
Published: May 2024

The complex compositional and functional nature of skeletal muscle makes this organ an essential topic of study for biomedical researchers and clinicians. An additional layer of complexity is added with the consideration of sex as a biological variable. Recent research advances have revealed sexual dimorphisms in developmental biology, muscle homeostasis, adaptive responses, and disorders relating to skeletal muscle. Many of the observed sex differences have hormonal and molecular mechanistic underpinnings, whereas others have yet to be elucidated. Future research is needed to investigate the mechanisms dictating sex-based differences in the various aspects of skeletal muscle. As such, it is necessary that skeletal muscle biologists ensure that both female and male subjects are represented in biomedical and clinical studies to facilitate the successful testing and development of therapeutics for all patients.
Suicide among Reproductive-Age Women in Northwest Ethiopia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tinsae Techilo , Alemayehu Biruk Fanta , Alemu Wondale Getinet
Published: May 2024

Background. Suicide is one of the global burdens of morbidity and mortality in all reproductive-age women population groups across the world. It is one of the most significant contributors to the global burden of illness and a cause of morbidity. This study is aimed at finding out how it occurred and what risk factors were related to suicidal ideation and attempts among women in the reproductive-age group. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted using a multistage cluster sampling technique to get a total of 590 study participants from March to April 2021. Data were entered into EpiData version 3.1 and analyzed in bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20. Variables with a p value <0.05 were declared to be associated risk factors with the outcome variable. Results. A total of 590 of the 598 sampled women participated, with a response rate of 98.7%. A one-month prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt was 2.9% (95% CI: 1.5%, 4.4%) and 2.5% (95% CI: 1.4%, 3.7%), respectively. Intimate partner violence (AOR=4.69, 95% CI: 1.53, 14.45), depression (AOR=3.11, 95% CI: 1.11, 9.85), and history of mental illness (AOR=5.18, 95% CI: 1.55, 17.32) were associated risk factors for suicide ideation. Anxiety (AOR=3.55, 95% CI: 1.17, 10.81), being unmarried (AOR=4.39, 95% CI: 1.49, 12.87), and history of mental illness (AOR=7.95, 95% CI: 2.42, 26.15) were associated risk factors for suicide attempts. Conclusion. SI and SA are prevalent in reproductive-age women. Intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, a history of mental illness, and being single were associated factors. This implies that providing relevant information, education, and continuing support is very crucial for reproductive-age group women to decrease the incidence and risk factors of suicide.
Frequency-Tunable SIW Band-Reject Filter with Increased Fundamental Mode Bandwidth for Spectrum Underlay Cognitive Radio
Authors: Thummaluru Sreenath Reddy , Kumar Rajkishor , Chaudhary Raghvendra Kumar
Published: May 2024

This paper presents the design of a frequency-tunable substrate-integrated waveguide (SIW) band-reject filter, specifically for spectrum underlay cognitive radio operation. The proposed filter has a simple tuning circuit but provides a wide frequency tuning range from 2.9 to 4.4 GHz (41%). The second resonant mode has been suppressed using a simple quadrature coupling; hence, the fundamental mode bandwidth of the filter has been increased from 2.08 GHz to 3.36 GHz. Due to its wide tuning range, simple tuning circuit, and increased fundamental mode bandwidth, the proposed filter is greatly important in underlay cognitive radio construction. The second-order filter has also been developed, and its performance is analyzed with both simulation and measurement. It gives a tunable bandwidth of 41%, an insertion loss of more than 10 dB, and a fundamental mode bandwidth of 3.36 GHz. The filter performance is also analyzed after connecting it to the standard horn antenna. Finally, from the total efficiency plots, it has been concluded that the proposed filter achieves all the above advantages with a low-lossy nature.
Midterm Experience with the Self-Expandable Venus P-Valve™ for Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Replacement in Large Right Ventricular Outflow Tracts
Authors: Kramer Peter , Schleiger Anastasia , Duong Phuoc , Berger Felix
Published: May 2024

Background. Preliminary results with the recently certified self-expandable Venus P-Valve™ designed for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in patients with dilated right ventricular outflow tracts are encouraging, but experience is limited. We therefore assessed our early and midterm outcomes with the Venus P-Valve™. Methods. Twenty patients who underwent Venus P-Valve™ implantation in our institution were included in this retrospective study. Procedural data and clinical, imaging, and hemodynamic data at baseline and last follow-up were recorded and analyzed. Results. Mean patient age was 35.0 ± 16.8 years, and five patients were <18 years of age. Procedural success was 100%, and there was no major valve-related procedural complication. At last follow-up (median 0.5 (range 0.1–6.6) years), valve function was excellent in all patients. Two patients had mild regurgitation after 6.2 and 6.6 years, respectively, while all other patients had no or only trace regurgitation. Flow was unobstructed with a mean gradient estimated by echocardiography of 12 ± 4 mmHg. NYHA functional class improved significantly (p=0.009), and right ventricular dimensions significantly decreased (right ventricular end-diastolic diameter 56±9 mm vs. 44±8 mm) (p<0.001). Transient benign ventricular arrhythmias were frequent. One patient experienced a severe arrhythmia with sustained ventricular tachycardia during follow-up. Conclusions. Early and midterm results with the Venus P-Valve™ are excellent. It considerably extends the interventional options and offers a safe and effective alternative to surgery in patients with large right ventricular outflow tracts. Larger multi-institutional studies with longer follow-up duration are required to reliably assess the long-term performance and possible long-term complications of the Venus P-Valve™.
An Intelligent COVID-19-Related Arabic Text Detection Framework Based on Transfer Learning Using Context Representation
Authors: Muaad Abdullah Y. , Raza Shaina , Heyat Md Belal Bin , Alabrah Amerah , J. Hanumanthappa
Published: May 2024

The misleading information during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic’s peak time is very sensitive and harmful in our community. Analyzing and detecting COVID-19 information on social media are a crucial task. Early detection of COVID-19 information is very helpful and minimizes the risk of psychological security which leads to inconvenience in daily life. In this paper, a deep ensemble transfer learning framework with an understanding of the context of Arabic text COVID-19 information is proposed. This framework is inspired to spontaneously analyze and recognize the text about COVID-19. The ArCOVID-19Vac dataset has been used to train and test our proposed model. A comprehensive experimental study for each scenario is performed. For the binary classification scenario, the proposed framework records better evaluation results with 83.0%, 84.0%, 83.0%, and 84.0% in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, respectively. For the second scenario (three classes), the overall performance is recorded with an accuracy of 82.0%, precision of 80.0%, recall of 82.0%, and F1-score of 80.0%, respectively. In the last scenario with ten classes, the best evaluation performance results are recorded with an accuracy of 67.0%, a precision of 58.0%, a recall of 67.0%, and F1-score of 59.0%, respectively. In addition, we have applied an ensemble transfer learning model for this scenario to get 64.0%, 66.0%, 66.0%, and 65.0% in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, respectively. The results show that the proposed model through transfer learning provides better results for Arabic text than all state-of-the-art methods.
Radiation and Chemo-Sensitizing Effects of DNA-PK Inhibitors Are Proportional in Tumors and Normal Tissues
Authors: Baker Jennifer H.E. , Kyle Alastair H. , Liu Nannan A. , Wang Taixiang , Liu Xinhe , Teymori Sevin , Banáth Judit P. , Minchinton Andrew I.
Published: May 2024

Inhibitors of DNA-dependent protein kinase (PRKDC; DNA-PK) sensitize cancers to radiotherapy and DNA-damaging chemotherapies, with candidates in clinical trials. However, the degree to which DNA-PK inhibitors also sensitize normal tissues remains poorly characterized. In this study, we compare tumor growth control and normal tissue sensitization following DNA-PK inhibitors in combination with radiation and etoposide. FaDu tumor xenografts implanted in mice were treated with 10 to 15 Gy irradiation ± 3 to 100 mg/kg AZD7648. A dose-dependent increase in time to tumor volume doubling following AZD7648 was proportional to an increase in toxicity scores of the overlying skin. Similar effects were seen in the intestinal jejunum, tongue, and FaDu tumor xenografts of mice assessed for proliferation rates at 3.5 days after treatment with etoposide or 5 Gy whole body irradiation ± DNA-PK inhibitors AZD7648 or peposertib (M3814). Additional organs were examined for sensitivity to DNA-PK inhibitor activity in ATM-deficient mice, where DNA-PK activity is indicated by surrogate marker γH2AX. Inhibition was observed in the heart, brain, pancreas, thymus, tongue, and salivary glands of ATM-deficient mice treated with the DNA-PK inhibitors relative to radiation alone. Similar reductions are also seen in ATM-deficient FaDu tumor xenografts where both pDNA-PK and γH2AX staining could be performed. DNA-PK inhibitor-mediated sensitization to radiation and DNA-damaging chemotherapy are not only limited to tumor tissues, but also extends to normal tissues sustaining DNA damage. These data are useful for interpretation of the sensitizing effects of DNA damage repair inhibitors, where a therapeutic index showing greater cell-killing effects on cancer cells is crucial for optimal clinical translation.
Transcription Factor ETV4 Activates AURKA to Promote PD-L1 Expression and Mediate Immune Escape in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Ping , He Shangxiang , Ye Ling , Weng Heng
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The occurrence and progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) impair T-cell immune responses, causing immune escape and subsequently affecting the efficacy of immunotherapy in patients. Aurora kinase A (AURKA) is upregulated in varying cancers, but its role in LUAD immune escape is elusive. This work attempted to explore molecular mechanisms of AURKA regulation in LUAD immune escape. Methods: Through bioinformatics analysis, AURKA level in LUAD was evaluated, and potential upstream transcription factors of AURKA were predicted using hTFtarget. ETS variant transcription factor 4 (ETV4) expression in LUAD was analyzed through The Cancer Genome Atlas. Pearson’s correlation analysis was then utilized to test the correlation between AURKA and ETV4. Interaction and binding between AURKA and ETV4 were validated through dual-luciferase assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) tested relative mRNA expression of AURKA and ETV4 in LUAD cells, cell counting kit-8 assayed cell viability, and Western blot analysis was conducted to determine the protein level of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). Coculture of LUAD cells with activated CD8+ T cells was carried out, and an LDH assay was used to assess the cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells against LUAD cells. Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-2 (IL-2), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels in the coculture system were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot assessed protein levels of JAK2, p-JAK2, STAT3, and p-STAT3. Results: Compared to normal tissues, AURKA and ETV4 were upregulated in tumor tissues, and AURKA presented a negative association with CD8+ T-cell immune infiltration but a positive association with PD-L1. qRT-PCR unveiled significantly upregulated mRNA of AURKA and ETV4 in LUAD cells compared to normal lung epithelial cells. Knockdown of AURKA significantly decreased cell viability and PD-L1 protein level in LUAD cells, enhanced cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells against LUAD cells and IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α expression, while overexpression of AURKA yielded opposite results. Furthermore, the knockdown of ETV4 could reverse the oncogenic characteristics of cells caused by AURKA overexpression. Conclusion: Our study illustrated that ETV4/AURKA axis promoted PD-L1 expression, suppressed CD8+ T-cell activity, and mediated immune escape in LUAD by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Trichoscopy of Lichen Planopilaris in Black Scalp: A Literature Review
Authors: Plata Glaura Tinoco , Cortez de Almeida Rita Fernanda , Tortelly Violeta Duarte
Published: May 2024

Background: Lichen planopilaris (LPP) manifests as uni or multifocal patches of scarring alopecia across the scalp. Its symptoms include pruritus, trichodynia, and burning. Trichoscopy is a critical tool for early disease detection. In African descendants, LPP poses additional diagnostic challenges, given the black scalp peculiarities. These specific features include lower hair density, slower growth, and structural differences, compared to Caucasians. Moreover, the healthy black scalp may show distinctive features such as a honeycomb-pigmented network and sparse pinpoint white dots. Summary: In individuals of African descent, the most prevalent scarring alopecia is Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia, an important differential diagnosis for LPP in this population. LPP trichoscopy in the black scalp reveals unique features such as perifollicular erythema in the early stages, which often manifests as hyperpigmentation. This study aimed to review the literature on trichoscopy findings in LPP on black scalp categorizing them into distinct stages and highlighting their unique yet understudied characteristics. Key Messages: Despite not being as prevalent as nonscarring alopecias and not so frequent in the black scalp, LPP’s aesthetic and devastating psychosocial impact raise concerns. Therefore, early recognition is paramount to halt the progress of LPP, mitigate its psychosocial impact, and prevent misdiagnosis.
Chronic Intestinal Failure and Short Bowel Syndrome in Adults: The State of the Art
Authors: Vara-Luiz Francisco , Glória Luísa , Mendes Ivo , Carlos Sandra , Guerra Paula , Nunes Gonçalo , Oliveira Cátia Sofia , Ferreira Andreia , Santos Ana Paula , Fonseca Jorge
Published: May 2024

Background: Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a devastating malabsorptive condition and the most common cause of chronic intestinal failure (CIF). During the intestinal rehabilitation process, patients may need parenteral support for months or years, parenteral nutrition (PN), or hydration/electrolyte supplementation, as a bridge for the desired enteral autonomy. Summary: Several classification criteria have been highlighted to reflect different perspectives in CIF. The management of CIF-SBS in adults is a multidisciplinary process that aims to reduce gastrointestinal secretions, slow transit, correct/prevent malnutrition, dehydration, and specific nutrient deficiencies, and prevent refeeding syndrome. The nutritional support team should have the expertise to take care of these complex patients: fluid support; oral, enteral, and PN; disease/PN-related complications; pharmacologic treatment; and surgical prevention/treatment. Key Messages: CIF-SBS is a complex disease with undesired consequences, if not adequately identified and managed. A comprehensive approach performed by a multidisciplinary team is essential to reduce PN dependence, promote enteral independence, and improve quality of life.
Onychocryptosis Is Associated with Low Income in a Matched Cohort Study Using the All of Us Database
Authors: Hill Rachel C. , Stubblefield Onajia , Vlahovic Tracey C. , Lipner Shari R.
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Onychocryptosis is a common and often painful nail condition, but risk factors have been relatively unexplored. We aimed to analyze associations between onychocryptosis, comorbidities, and income level. Methods: Using the National Institute of Health All of Us Research Program Database, a matched case-control study was performed for patients with onychocryptosis diagnosis and comorbidities and lifestyle factors. Results: A total of 6,246 cases of onychocryptosis and 24,984 controls were analyzed. Patients with onychocryptosis versus controls had increased risk of onychogryphosis (OR 5.66; 95% CI 4.87, 6.58), onychomycosis (2.63; 2.06, 3.36), hallux valgus (1.68; 1.50, 1.87), type 2 diabetes mellitus (1.49; 1.40, 1.60), obesity (1.38; 1.30, 1.48), and peripheral vascular disease (1.24; 1.14, 1.35) compared to controls. Patients who reported living in low-income households more often had onychocryptosis (reference group annual income >200 k; annual income <10 k USD, OR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.46, 2.12, p < 0.001 vs. annual income 150–200 k USD, OR: 1.26; 95% CI: 0.99, 1.61, p = 0.06). Conclusion: Low income, obesity, PVD, and T2DM were associated with onychocryptosis diagnosis. It is recommended that these at-risk populations be screened for onychocryptosis and counseled on proper nail trimming techniques. Future studies are needed to examine the relationship between household income and onychocryptosis risk.