bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring watercolor illusion spreading between dissected stimulus parts
Authors: Hale Ralph G. , Brown James M.
Published: November 2023

The watercolor illusion (WCI) occurs when an achromatic region is surrounded by an outer contour and inner chromatic fringe, resulting in an apparent pale tint of the same hue as the fringe. The WCI both fills in and spreads out, with the previous literature suggesting it always spreads out in the absence of an enclosing border. We examined how global stimulus configuration affects this illusion by dissecting various WCI-inducing stimuli into parts. Specifically, would color spread out of the unenclosed ends of the disconnected parts? Participants provided WCI illusion magnitude ratings and shading data indicating perceived locations of color spreading for a variety of stimulus configurations. Instead of the WCI spreading modally into the spaces between the disconnected parts, we found a global reorganization of the stimuli occurred. The dissected WCI stimuli were perceived as either amodally completed behind a white illusory surface perceptually different than the physically identical background or, as empty space between separate objects depending in part on the distance between dissected parts. This study demonstrates the WCI does not always spread outside of unenclosed borders when the global interpretation interferes with spreading. These findings highlight the importance of global configuration and perceptual organization in the WCI.
Incorporating Rail Potential and Equity Analysis into Market Analyses for Rail Investments: A Case Study of the Link21 Program in Northern California
Authors: Cheah Derek , Tang Andrew , Tejedor Elisa
Published: November 2023

This paper presents an innovative approach for conducting market analyses for major rail investments. The approach considers which locations have the greatest potential to repay investment support and/or benefit specifically from the investment in the form of potential rail riders and the factors that could influence their decision to travel by rail. It is guided by an overarching commitment to equity with an emphasis on identifying potential benefits to communities that have been marginalized. The approach is applied to a case study of the Link21 program, a transformational investment in the Northern California passenger rail network that is focused on a new transbay passenger rail crossing between San Francisco and Oakland. The analysis found there is significant unmet potential for transbay rail ridership across the Northern California megaregion, with the greatest unmet potential found in and around San Francisco and Oakland, specifically in locations with a poor or no rail service. Although much of the potential for new riders centers around transbay travel, the Link21 program could also benefit non-transbay trips and riders. Ultimately, new transbay rail infrastructure and services will create more opportunities for accessible, direct, faster, or less crowded trips across the megaregion. These findings illustrate the value of the innovative market analysis approach as follows: it serves as an objective foundation for developing investment alternatives; and it influences the findings of the analysis and the development of alternatives by emphasizing the importance of serving communities that have been marginalized.
Realistic Approach for Capacity Estimation of U-Turns Under Heterogeneous Traffic Condition
Authors: Khan Tathagatha , Vivek Adheesh Kumar , Mohapatra Smruti Sourava , Patnaik Ashish Kumar
Published: November 2023

The main purpose of the present study is to estimate U-turn capacity at mid-block median openings (MBMO). Estimation of U-turn capacity requires three key parameters, namely: conflicting traffic volume, critical gap, and follow-up time. Conflicting traffic volume has been estimated by introducing a novel parameter, namely, spatiotemporal conflicting factor. Critical gap has been estimated using five different methods: modified Raff method, Ashworth method, logit model, occupancy time method, and support vector machine technique. The follow-up time has been estimated directly from recorded videos. Subsequently, capacity has been estimated for different types of vehicles along with the U-turning stream capacity. The estimated capacity has been validated using field capacity, using Kyte’s method. Further, a suitable method for the estimation of critical gap in the Indian context has been determined. This study could be used as a guideline for the U-turn capacity estimation for efficient design and management of traffic at MBMO.
Pathways to Improve Provision of Home and Community-Based Services—A Configurational Approach Based on a Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis From China
Authors: Huang Yunyun , Zhang Rujia , Zhao Qianru , Wang Xiaoyi , Ge Lizheng , Zhang Songjia , Yang Qingren , Zhang Chenkai , Zhang Xiangyang , Chen Chun
Published: November 2023

Providing home and community-based services (HCBS) is critical for active and healthy aging. However, in China, the positive factors for improving HCBS provision are unclear, limiting its contribution to improving older adults’ quality of life and promoting active and healthy aging. Therefore, this study examines the configurations that produce differences in HCBS and identifies multiple pathways for improving them and narrowing regional disparities. Using data from multiple datasets comprising 23 cases, we performed configuration analysis using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis. Four pathways producing high HCBS provision and three pathways producing low HCBS provision were found. Different combinations of the aging population, economic development, institutional support, financial support, and development of multiple stakeholders influence HCBS provision. Thus, measures based on the main factor characteristics should be implemented to improve the HCBS provision level.
Assessing an Extended Version of the Not-So-Simple View of Writing Model in School-Aged Students With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Matta Michael
Published: November 2023

Students with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are struggling writers. Yet no comprehensive model has been validated to explain their poor writing outcomes. This study aims to test whether an extended version of the Not-So-Simple View of Writing (NSVW) model can describe the effects of key abilities on writing performance in students with ADHD. The sample included students with and without ADHD who completed cognitive and academic measures in the Colorado Twin Project. A Multi-Group Structural Equation Model approach revealed that multiple broad cognitive abilities predicted student writing performance and basic writing skills predicted more advanced writing skills. Model fit was excellent both for a model with writing as a single latent variable (fully latent) and as interrelated manifest variables (partially latent). Furthermore, students with and without ADHD demonstrated comparable patterns of relationships among the variables in the model. Implications for the assessment of writing difficulties in students with ADHD are discussed.
Functional Dependence Prior to ICU Admission is Associated with Worse Clinical and Functional Outcomes in Individuals with COVID-19: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Paranhos Darlisson B. , Annoni Raquel , Schujmann Debora S. , Fernandes Luciane F. R. M.
Published: November 2023

Objectives: To determine whether low functional capacity (FC) prior to intensive care unit (ICU) admission due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) might be associated with worse clinical outcomes. To monitor FC until discharge from the ICU. To identify associations between physical outcomes and decreased FC at discharge from the ICU. Design: Prospective observational study conducted from March to August 2021. Setting: ICU for adult patients with COVID-19. Participants: Adults (≥18 years) with COVID-19. Interventions: Not applicable. Main outcome measures: Clinical and demographic data were obtained from medical records. At ICU admission, evaluation was made of FC using the Barthel index (BI), and of the level of mobility using the ICU mobility scale. At ICU discharge, FC and mobility level were reassessed, and muscle strength was measured using the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale and the handgrip test. Results: The study was performed with 108 individuals. At the initial assessment, 73.1% of the patients were functionally independent. Length of hospital stay (odds ratio [OR]  =  1.05; 95%confidence interval [CI]  =  1.00-1.10) and death (OR  =  5.27; 95%CI  =  1.37-20.28) were related to functional status prior to ICU admission. Between ICU admission and discharge, the BI evaluation indicated a functional decline of 22.5 points. Low mobility level ( P  =  .003) and low muscle strength assessed by the MRC scale ( P < .001), measured at ICU discharge, were associated with a greater decrease of FC during the ICU stay. Conclusions: Patients with COVID-19 who were functionally dependent prior to ICU admission presented worse clinical outcomes, with low functional status being associated with longer hospitalization and higher mortality. However, irrespective of the initial functionality status, the surviving individuals suffered from functional decline at ICU discharge. Greater functional decline during the ICU stay was associated with lower muscle strength and lower mobility level at ICU discharge.
Radiation preparation and antimicrobial activity of Poly(PVA/starch/Ag NPs) nanocomposite towards Penicillium digitatum on citrus fruits
Authors: Salah M , Salem Ehab Ahmed , Abdel-Ghaffar Ashraf Maher , Helal Ismail M
Published: November 2023

The synthesis of Poly(PVA/St/Ag NPs) nanocomposite by using of gamma radiation was carried out. The progress of the reaction was examined by using different techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV, XRD, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The FTIR show the successful preparation of the Poly(PVA/St/Ag NPs) nanocomposite by gamma radiation at a dose of 5 kGy. The TEM analysis displays the particle size distribution of Ag NPs and it is observed that the Ag NPs size was in the range of 21-30 nm. The SEM images show a good distribution of silver nanoparticles in the Poly(PVA/St/Ag NPs) nanocomposite. matrix, but with little agglomerations or aggregates observed on the surface of the Poly(PVA/St/Ag NPs) nanocomposite. The XRD analysis indicates that amorphous regions are enhanced in the Poly(PVA/St/Ag NPs) nanocomposite. The coating of Citrus fruits by of Poly(PVA/St/Ag NPs) nanocomposite showed better performance in inhibition of the growth of P. digitatum on citrus fruits than free Ag NPs at concentration of 30 ppm. The incorporation of Ag NPs in Poly(PVA/St/Ag NPs) nanocomposite has extremely obvious antifungal activities against P. digitatum due to the nanometer range of Ag NPs that can interact with P. digitatum surface and/or its core where it enters inside the cell, as a result, cellular metabolism is inhibited causing death of P. digitatum and subsequently exhibits antifungal activities.
Sample sizes for estimating the sensitivity of a monitoring system that generates repeated binary outcomes with autocorrelation
Authors: Parker Albert E , Arbogast James W
Published: November 2023

Sample size formulas are provided to determine how many events and how many patient care units are needed to estimate the sensitivity of a monitoring system. The monitoring systems we consider generate time series binary data that are autocorrelated and clustered by patient care units. Our application of interest is an automated hand hygiene monitoring system that assesses whether healthcare workers perform hand hygiene when they should. We apply an autoregressive order 1 mixed effects logistic regression model to determine sample sizes that allow the sensitivity of the monitoring system to be estimated at a specified confidence level and margin of error. This model overcomes a major limitation of simpler approaches that fail to provide confidence intervals with the specified levels of confidence when the sensitivity of the monitoring system is above 90%.
In vitro culture of muscle cells derived from myofascial trigger points
Authors: Liu Lin , Huang Qiang-Min , Liu Qing-Guang
Published: November 2023

Objective:

To examine for the in vitro existence of contractile nodules on the taut band of muscle fibers where myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) are located (using cell culture).

Methods:

Sixteen male Sprague–Dawley rats (7 weeks old) were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. A blunt striking injury and eccentric exercise were applied to the gastrocnemius muscle of rats in the experimental group once a week for 8 weeks to establish an MTrP model. Subsequently, the rats were reared normally and rested for 4 weeks. After modeling, the skeletal muscles at the MTrPs (and non-MTrPs at the same anatomical position) were extracted from the two groups of rats for in vitro cell culture experiments of single muscle fibers. Potential contractile nodules in the MTrP group were exposed to different concentrations of acetylcholinesterase, whereas non-MTrP cells were exposed to acetylcholine. The morphological changes of muscle cells in each group were observed.

Results:

By culturing MTrP cells in vitro, large contractile nodules remained in single MTrP muscle fibers, whereas some contractile nodules were twisted and deformed. After the addition of different acetylcholinesterase concentrations, no obvious morphological changes were observed in the contractile nodules in the MTrP group. After the non-MTrP cells were exposed to different acetylcholine concentrations, no significant morphological changes were observed in the single muscle fibers.

Conclusion:

MTrP cells can continue to maintain contractile morphology in vitro, but whether the recovery of such contractile nodules is related to acetylcholine remains uncertain.
Measurement Models of Child Maltreatment and Associations With Suicidal Ideation Endorsement by Youth in Foster Care: A Multiverse Analytic Approach
Authors: Lombera Metzli Augustina , Marshall Amy Dyanna , Such Sara , Jackson Yo
Published: November 2023

Youth suicidal ideation is a prevalent experience, particularly among youth exposed to maltreatment, with a variety of indicators such as youth statements of ideation. To better understand suicidal ideation, and the associations with youth mental health outcomes, a fruitful path may be through the study of the dimensions (e.g., severity, frequency) of maltreatment exposure. While there exists extensive work on methods to best operationalize casefile records of maltreatment, such work has not been undertaken for youth self-reports, which are an important indicator of youth functioning following exposure. To address the lack of clarity of how to best operationalize youth self-reports of maltreatment, a multiverse analytic approach was taken to operationalize severity and frequency in a sample of 471 8- to 17-year-old children in foster care. We examined differences across measurement models and the models’ associations with caregiver reports of youth suicidal ideation statements. Results indicate that the operationalizations used to define maltreatment resulted in differing measurement models that further differed in their associations with reports of youth suicidal ideation. This study highlights the importance of how researchers operationalize their data and the role dimensions of maltreatment have in further elucidating differential outcomes for youth exposed to maltreatment.
Reperfusion of retinal nonperfusion by neovascular-vascular anastomosis in proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Shiraki Akihiko , Tsuboi Kotaro , Wakabayashi Taku , Shiraki Nobuhiko , Nishida Kohji
Published: November 2023

Background

Retinal nonperfusion is a significant cause of vision loss in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Therefore, reperfusion of a nonperfusion has been a matter of strong interest, but few previous studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of reperfusion.

Case reports

Here, we report longitudinal optical coherence tomography angiographic analysis of two cases of PDR, in which the retinal neovascularization (RNV) that developed in response to retinal ischemia formed anastomoses with pre-existing physiological retinal vessels, resulting in both superficial and deep capillary reperfusion within the nonperfusion. We named this interesting finding “neovascular-vascular anastomosis.” Retinal reperfusion due to neovascular-vascular anastomosis differed from recanalization, defined as reperfusion of once-occluded blood vessels, and has not been reported previously.

Conclusion

Our observation highlights the potential of RNV to rescue retinal ischemia by the formation of neovascular-vascular anastomoses.
Spontaneous bilateral corneal perforation in ocular Rosacea
Authors: Pellegrini Francesco , Vincigiuerra Agatino , Maria Antonio De
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To report a rare case of a 19-year-old girl who presented with spontaneous bilateral corneal perforation in a setting of ocular rosacea

Methods

Ocular rosacea was diagnosed and treated with doxycycline. Cyanoacrylate glue was applied to treat corneal perforations.

Results

At six months follow up there is good healing, visual acuity has improved, anterior chamber is deep with no Seidel.

Conclusions

Rosacea is a multifactorial disease with an unclear pathophysiology. The ocular manifestations of rosacea (ocular rosacea) may occur without skin involvement, are not specific and can range from mild blepharitis to sight-threatening conditions. This case shows how ocular rosacea can lead to serious vision-threatening complications with mild symptoms. Cyanoacrylate glue and systemic antibiotic treatment are effective treatments.
A New Method for Common Femoral Arterial Access Using a Mixed Reality–Assisted Technique on a Phantom Model
Authors: Hatzl Johannes , Henning Daniel , Hartmann Niklas , Böckler Dittmar , Uhl Christian
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the technical feasibility and usability of a mixed reality (MiR)-assisted common femoral arterial (CFA) access technique using a sonography-assisted registration method.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 CFA punctures were performed on a phantom model by 2 observers. Thirty punctures were performed using MiR (MiR group) and 30 punctures were performed using a conventional sonography-guided access procedure (control group). In the MiR group, a virtual object was created based on a computed tomography (CT) angiography scan of the model and registered to the physical patient in an MiR environment utilizing a software prototype that allowed registration based on a sonography scan. Positional error assessment encompassed 4 measurements using cone beam CT scans: (1) distance of the needle tip to the centerline, (2) distance of the needle entry site from the mid-level of the ostium of the profound femoral artery, (3) angle of entry of the needle in coronal, and (4) sagittal planes. Technical success rates as well as positional errors were compared between both groups. In addition, the usability of the system was assessed according to the system usability scale (SUS).

Results:

Technical success was 96.7% and 100% in the MiR and control groups, respectively. The median distance between the needle tip and the centerline was 3.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: 2.0–4.6) in the MiR group and 3.2 mm (IQR: 2.3–3.9) (p=0.63) in the control group. Similarly, the median distance from the needle entry site to the mid-level of the ostium of the profound femoral artery was 3.0 mm (IQR: 2.0–5.0) in the MiR group and 4.5 mm (IQR: 2.0–7.8) (p=0.18) in the control group. The median coronal angles of needle entry were 7.5° (IQR: 6–11) and 6° (IQR: 2–12) (p=0.13), and the median sagittal angles were 50° (IQR: 47–51) and 51° (IQR: 50–55) (p<0.01) in the MiR and control groups, respectively. The mean SUS score provided by both observers was 51.3.

Conclusion:

The feasibility of an MiR-assisted CFA access technique could be demonstrated on a phantom model. Further studies are needed to investigate the technique beyond phantom model experiments and in different anatomical settings.

Clinical Impact

This study demonstrates the technical feasibility of a Mixed-Reality-assisted common femoral arterial access procedure on a phantom model. The positional accuracy was comparable to a conventional sonography-guided technique. However, there are several limitations that need to be resolved prior to potential implementation into clinical practice. Further studies are needed to investigate its performance beyond phantom model experiments and the prototypical application requires further technical refinement to increase its usability.
Facial Lacerations Related to Recreational Activities: A National 10-Year Evaluation From US Emergency Departments
Authors: Hauc Sacha C. , Huelsboemer Lioba , Lewis Katelyn , Hosseini Helia , Williams Mica , Rivera Jean Carlo , Alperovich Michael
Published: November 2023

Study Design

This study serves as a nationally representative retrospective cohort of U.S emergency department visits related to facial lacerations caused by recreational activities.

Objective

The aim of this work is to offer a representative sample of facial laceration and identify the recreational activities associated with the highest risk of such injuries.

Methods

We conducted aretrospectivestudy of patients reported to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) which collects information on injuries related to consumer products. Patients were included in our dataset from the time period of 2012 to 2021 if they sustained a facial laceration that was caused by a recreational activity.

Results

Our findings reveal 2,383,761 facial lacerations between the study period examined. Young male white adults were more likely to sustain a facial laceration related to recreational activities. Injuries related to exercise equipment were also more likely seen in male patients. The most common cause of facial lacerations was associated with bicycles and basketball.

Conclusions

This study found that young white adults are notably prone to facial lacerations, with recreational activities such as bicycling and basketball accounting for the majority of cases. Understanding these statistics is pivotal for implementing targeted strategies to prevent these injuries and their associated consequences.
Histopathological examination of characteristic brain MRI findings in acute hyperammonemic encephalopathy: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Denk CH , Kunzmann J , Maieron A , Wöhrer A , Quinot V , Oberndorfer S
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Acute hyperammonemic encephalopathy is associated with distinct brain MRI findings, namely, hyperintensity in T2-weighted sequences as well as restricted diffusion in diffusion-weighted imaging with accentuation in the insular cortex and cingulate gyrus. The pathophysiology and the histopathological correlates of these characteristic MRI findings are largely unknown.

Case report

We present a 57-year-old male with a history of chronic alcohol abuse, liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, and a clinical syndrome (variceal bleeding, depression of consciousness, seizures), elevated plasma ammonia levels, and characteristic brain MRI abnormalities suggestive of acute hyperammonemic encephalopathy. A postmortem histopathological examination revealed extensive hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy without evidence for metabolic encephalopathy. No episodes of prolonged cerebral hypoxemia were documented throughout the course of the disease. We conducted a review of the literature, which exhibited no reports of hyperammonemic encephalopathy in association with characteristic brain MRI findings and a consecutive histopathological examination.

Conclusion

This is the first report of a patient with acute hyperammonemic encephalopathy together with characteristic brain MRI findings and a histopathological correlation. Although characteristic MRI findings of acute hyperammonemic encephalopathy were present, a histopathological examination revealed only hypoxic pathology without signs of metabolic encephalopathy.
Journey to New Land: Quest for Santal Settlement in Goalpara District of Assam During Colonial Period
Authors: Wary Jaysagar , Brahma Bijit
Published: November 2023

The Santal Mission was established on 26th September 1867 by Mr E.C. Johnson a British missionary of Baptish Missionary Society, Lars Olsen Skrefsrud, a Norwegian and Hans Peter Boerresen, a Danish. So as to provide a better way of life to the Santal, Lars Olsen Skrefsrud and Hans Peter Boerresen played an important role to bring them to Goalpara district, which resulted in the creation of a Santal Colony in Assam. During the colonial period, the Santals were taken away by the British as tea coolies and forest labourers to different parts of India. Accordingly, the Santal Mission had brought a group of Santal community to Guma Duar in Goalpara district of Assam. Thereafter, several waves of Santal immigrants came to Goalpara district through the Santal Mission and made settlements in different places of Goalpara district. This article attempts to study the settlement of Santal and establishment of a Santal colony in Guma Duar of Goalpara district in Assam.
Global Insights: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends in Stroke Thrombolysis
Authors: Muraleedharan Manesh , Chandak Alaka Omprakash
Published: November 2023

Bibliometric analyses shed light on domain-specific research trends such as leading contributors and geographical distribution. This article examines these aspects in the context of stroke thrombolysis research over the past decade. Our review highlights the United States as the most prolific contributor with significant input from organizations in China, Sweden, and other countries. Overlay visualization further elucidates focus areas such as thrombolysis pharmacological agents, stroke risk factors, and advancements in assessment and diagnostic techniques.
Beyond the law: Exploring the impact of criminalising anabolic–androgenic steroid use on help-seeking and health outcomes in Australia
Authors: Piatkowski Timothy , Gibbs Nick , Dunn Matthew
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate how Anabolic–Androgenic Steroid (AAS) users and healthcare professionals perceive the criminalisation of AAS on users’ ability to seek help and, ultimately, what effect this has on the health outcomes for these consumers. This study triangulated the views ( N = 24) of male ( n = 8) and female ( n = 7) AAS users ( Mage = 35.4, SD = 9.1), as well as healthcare providers ( n = 9), regarding how the criminalisation of AAS had an impact on consumers’ health behaviours and help-seeking. Data were analysed thematically. An overarching narrative was developed regarding the “politicogenic drug effects” which emerge from the illegality of AAS with three overarching themes. First, participants expressed challenges in seeking help and support due to the stigma and fear associated with the illegal nature of AAS use. This fear stemmed from the criminalisation of AAS and the potential legal consequences. Participants also highlighted the social challenges and the need for secrecy surrounding AAS use, which further hindered open discussions and engagement with healthcare providers. The cohort emphasised the close-knit social networks among AAS users, offering support and shared experiences but also entangled in the criminality associated with AAS use. Moreover, participants acknowledged the difficulties in promoting harm reduction initiatives due to the need for secrecy and the potential social and economic disadvantages. The escalation of AAS criminalisation that has impacted both consumers and healthcare professionals has exacerbated the challenges associated with their interaction, further impeding a relationship already fraught with obstacles. Consequently, users remain entrenched within the illicit market, with few options for harm reduction intervention. The study advocates for a rethinking of AAS policies, considering a potential reclassification aligned with the United Kingdom's Class C framework to destigmatise use and promote harm reduction. This shift would require comprehensive research to assess its impact on public health, user behaviour, and harm reduction outcomes.
Serum α-Klotho level, lung function, airflow obstruction and inflammatory markers in US adults
Authors: Han Yueh-Ying , Celedón Juan C. , Forno Erick
Published: November 2023

Background

α-Klotho is a pleiotropic protein that may have anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties in the lung, but its role in airflow obstruction or lung function is largely unknown.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 6046 adults aged 40–79 years in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2012. We used multivariable logistic or linear regression to examine the relation between serum α-Klotho level and airflow obstruction, defined as forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) <80% of predicted and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio <0.70; FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC as percentage of predicted; and inflammatory markers in blood (white blood cell count, eosinophils, neutrophils and C-reactive protein (CRP)).

Results

α-Klotho levels in the second to fourth quartiles (Q2–Q4) were associated with significantly decreased odds of airflow obstruction (adjusted OR for Q2–Q4versuslowest quartile (Q1) 0.54 (95% CI 0.35–0.81)) in never-smokers and ex-smokers with <10 pack-years of smoking, but not in current smokers or ex-smokers with ≥10 pack-years of smoking. In all participants, each unit increment in log10-transformed α-Klotho level was significantly associated with 5.0% higher FEV1% pred and 3.7% higher FVC % pred. Higher α-Klotho was also associated with lower eosinophils, neutrophils and CRP in participants both with and without airflow obstruction.

Conclusions

Higher serum α-Klotho is associated with lower inflammatory markers and higher lung function in adults with and without airflow obstruction, and with decreased odds of airflow obstruction in never-smokers and ex-smokers with <10 pack-years of smoking. Further studies are warranted to replicate our findings and evaluate underlying mechanisms.
Evidence for a pre-Himalayan metamorphism in the High Himalayan Crystalline of the Miyar Valley (NW India)
Authors: Robyr Martin
Published: November 2023

Most of the tectonic, metamorphic and geochronological data suggest that the Himalaya is essentially the consequence of a single orogenic cycle associated with the India-Asia collision during the Cenozoic era. Therefore, metamorphic assemblages and tectonic structures across the Himalayan range are systematically considered as post-collisional geological records. However, over the last decades, several observations arguing for geological events predating the continental collision have become increasingly recurrent in the literature. Nevertheless, although some of these arguments are thoroughly documented, they are unduly ignored in the construction of models drawing the tectono-metamorphic evolution of the Himalayan range. Yet, the occurrence of a pre-Himalayan history would have considerable consequences on the classical models for the building of the Himalaya. The recent discovery of inclusions of staurolite crystals in greenschist facies garnets from the Miyar Valley in Upper Lahul region (Himachal Pradesh; NW India) revives the debate on the existence of a pre-Himalayan metamorphism. Indeed, the occurrence of high-temperature staurolites included in greenschist facies garnets suggests that the High Himalayan Crystalline rocks experienced an amphibolite facies metamorphism prior the predominant Himalayan greenschist facies metamorphism observed in this part of the range. In this study, phase petrology, microtectonic investigations combined with preexisting geochronological data infer that the crystallization of the included staurolite predates the growth of Himalayan garnets. These original data bring new arguments to bear on the long lasting debate of the existence of a Pre-Himalayan orogenic cycle. They lead to the conclusion that the growth of staurolite predates the continental collision between India and Asia and reflects a metamorphic event that belongs to a pre-Himalaya orogenic cycle.
Heat-induced female biased sex ratio during development is not mitigated after prolonged thermal selection
Authors: Santos Marta A. , Antunes Marta A. , Grandela Afonso , Carromeu-Santos Ana , Quina Ana S. , Santos Mauro , Matos Margarida , Simões Pedro
Published: November 2023

Background

The negative impacts of climate change on biodiversity are consistently increasing. Developmental stages are particularly sensitive in many ectotherms. Moreover, sex-specific differences in how organisms cope with thermal stress can produce biased sex ratios upon emergence, with potentially major impacts on population persistence. This is an issue that needs investigation, particularly testing whether thermal selection can alleviate sex ratio distortions in the long-term is a critical but neglected issue. Here, we report an experiment analyzing the sex ratio patterns at different developmental temperatures in Drosophila subobscura populations subjected to long-term experimental evolution (~ 30 generations) under a warming environment.

Results

We show that exposure to high developmental temperatures consistently promotes sex ratio imbalance upon emergence, with a higher number of female than male offspring. Furthermore, we found that thermal selection resulting from evolution in a warming environment did not alleviate such sex ratio distortions generated by heat stress.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that heat stress during development can lead to clear sex ratio deviations upon emergence likely because of differential survival between sexes. In face of these findings, it is likely that sex ratio deviations of this sort occur in natural populations when facing environmental perturbation. The inability of many insects to avoid thermal shifts during their (more) sessile developmental stages makes this finding particularly troublesome for population subsistence in face of climate warming events.
Effects of bleeding of Actinidia arguta (Sieb. & Zucc) Planch. ex miq. on its plant growth, physiological characteristics and fruit quality
Authors: Jiang Yaxuan , Lei Pei , Ma Le , Dong Kun , Zhang Yu , Zhao Jia , Guo Xinyu , Liu Jianxin , Li Wei , Tao Lei , Meng Fanjuan
Published: November 2023

Bleeding is as particularly a serious phenomenon in Actinidia arguta and has important effects on this plant’s growth and development. Here we used A. arguta to study the effects of bleeding on the growth and development of leaves and fruits after a bleeding episode. We detect and analyze physiological indices of leaves and fruit after bleeding. The result revealed that the relative electrical conductivity and malondialdehyde (MDA) of leaves increased in treatment. Nitro blue tetrazolium chloride (NBT) and 3,3-diaminobenzidine (DAB) staining revealed the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in leaves after bleeding. The chlorophyll content and photosynthetic parameter of plants were also decreased. In fruits, pulp and seed water content decreased after the damage, as did fruit vitamin C (Vc), soluble sugar content, and soluble solids content (SSC); the titratable acid content did not change significantly. We therefore conclude that bleeding affects the physiological indices of A. arguta. Our study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the physiological changes of A. arguta after bleeding episodes and laying a timely foundation for advancing research on A. arguta bleeding and long-term field studies should be executed in order to gain insights into underlying mechanisms.
Triglyceride glucose-waist circumference: the optimum index to screen nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in non-obese adults
Authors: Li Shuying , Feng Li , Ding Jie , Zhou Weihong , Yuan Tangbin , Mao Jiangfeng
Published: November 2023

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is easily neglected in the non-obese population. TyG index (triglyceride glucose Index) and TG/HDL-c (triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) are new indicators to evaluate insulin resistance (IR). Fibroscan is a non-invasive way to assess hepatic steatosis [by control attenuation parameters (CAP)] and fibrosis [by liver stiffness measurement (LSM)].The purpose of this study was to explore the correlation of TyG and its combination with obesity indicators [TyG-waist circumference (WC), TyG-body mass index (BMI)] and TG/HDL-c with CAP and LSM.

Method

One thousand seven hundred seventy-six adults (age ≥ 20 years, BMI < 30 kg/m2) in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 were included. The correlations of CAP and LSM to the indexes were assessed by generalized linear models.. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to evaluate the diagnostic capability of the indicators on NAFLD and liver stiffness.

Results

Survey-weighted percentage of NAFLD in non-obese was 38.6%. In the fully adjusted models, there were positive associations of TyG, TyG-BMI, TyG-WC and TG/HDL-c to CAP, with the βs of 24.810, 0.704, 0.29 and 2.983 (all p < 0.05), respectively. There were positive associations of TyG, TyG-BMI, TyG-WC, and TG/HDL-c to NAFLD, with ORs of 3.387, 1.03, 1.010 and 1.281 ((all p < 0.05)).The positive association was detected for TG/HDL-c and TyG-WC and LSM with βs of 0.057 and 0.004(p = 0.021 and p = 0.003).TyG-WC were positively associated with liver stiffness with OR of 1.006(95%CI = 1.002, 1.012). Furthermore, the TyG-WC had the strongest diagnostic capability (ROC = 0.806; 95%CI: 0.785–0.826) on NAFLD in non-obese participants, with a specificity of 0.737 and sensitivity of 0.746.

Conclusion

In US non-obese population, the TyG, TyG-BMI, TyG-WC, and TG/HDL-c are positively correlated with CAP and NAFLD. TyG-WC has clinical importance in identifying NAFLD in the non-obese population.
Development and internal and external validation of a nomogram model for frailty risk among hospitalised older people using comprehensive geriatric assessment data
Authors: Lyu Hong , Jiang Wenhui
Published: November 2023

Background

Currently, there are few such studies about establishing the frailty prediction model on the basis of the research on the factors influencing frailty in older patients, which can better predict frailty and identify its risk factors, and then guide the formulation of intervention measures precisely, especially in the hospital setting in China. Meanwhile, comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) can provide measurable and substantial health improvements for frail older people. The study aimed to develop a nomogram model for frailty risk among hospitalised older people using CGA data and validated its predictive performance for providing a basis for medical staff to grasp the risk and risk factors of older inpatients’ frailty conveniently and accurately, and to formulate reasonable nursing intervention plan.

Methods

We used CGA data of individuals over age 64. Demographic characteristics, geriatric syndrome assessment, and frailty assessment based on the FRAIL scale were included as potential predictors. Significant variables in univariate analysis were used to construct risk models by logistic regression analysis. We used the root mean square (rms) to develop the nomogram prediction model for frailty based on independent clinical factors. Nomogram performance was internally validated with Bootstrap resampling. The final model was externally validated using an independent validation data set and was assessed for discrimination and calibration.

Results

Data from 2226 eligible older inpatients were extracted. Five hundred sixty-two older inpatients (25.25%) suffered from frailty. The final prediction model included damaged skin, MNA-SF, GDS-15, Morse risk scores, hospital admission, ICI-Q-SF, Braden score, MMSE, BI scores, and Caprini scores. The prediction model displayed fair discrimination. The calibration curve demonstrated that the probabilities of frailty predicted by the nomogram were satisfactorily matched.

Conclusions

The prediction model to identify hospitalised older people at high risk for frailty using comprehensive geriatric assessment data displayed fair discrimination and good predictive calibration. Therefore, it is inexpensive, easily applied, and accessible in clinical practice, containing variables routinely collected and readily available through consultation. It will be valuable for grasp older inpatients at high risk of frailty and risk factors in hospital setting to guide the formulation of intervention measures precisely for reversing and preventing frailty.
The effects of transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) on pain intensity of patients with fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Moshfeghinia Reza , Shekouh Dorsa , Mostafavi Sara , Hosseinzadeh Mehrnaz , Bahadori Amir Reza , Abdollahifard Saeed , Razmkon Ali
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has shown promise as a potential treatment for FM by modulating pain perception and reducing symptoms, such as fatigue and depression. We aimed to systematically review studies that assess the effect of tDCS on pain reduction in FM patients.

Methods

Seven electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane, and CINAHL Complete) were searched for records in English. Studies that measured the effect of tDCS on pain intensity in FM patients were included. The Cochrane Collaboration’s tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. A random-effect model was preferred, and statistical analysis was performed by Stata software version 17.

Results

Twenty studies were included for qualitative, and eleven for quantitative analysis. Out of 664 patients included in the study, 443 were in the stimulation group. The left M1 area was the most common stimulation target (n = 12), and 2 mA was the most common stimulation amplitude (n = 19). The analysis showed that active tDCS significantly reduced pain intensity in FM patients in comparison to the sham group (SMD= -1.55; 95% CI -2.10, -0.99); also, no publication bias was noted.

Conclusion

Our systematic review highlights the potential effect of tDCS on the reduction of pain intensity in FM patients. Additionally, this current evidence could suggest that tDCS applied at an intensity of 2mA to the left M1 is the most effective strategy.
Sex-specific aspects in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: a bicentric cohort study
Authors: Klasen Charlotte , Wuerdemann Nora , Rothbart Pauline , Prinz Johanna , Eckel Hans Nicholaus Casper , Suchan Malte , Kopp Christopher , Johannsen Jannik , Ziogas Maria , Charpentier Arthur , Huebbers Christian Ulrich , Sharma Shachi Jenny , Langer Christine , Arens Christoph , Wagner Steffen , Quaas Alexander , Klußmann Jens Peter
Published: November 2023

Background

Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is the only subgroup of head neck cancer that presents with an increased incidence. Gender-specific studies in other cancer entities have revealed differences in treatment response and prognosis. However, only limited data in OPSCC according to gender and human papillomavirus (HPV) status exist. Therefore, we aimed to investigate sex-specific differences in OPSCC and how these may be distributed in relation to HPV and other risk factors.

Methods

This retrospective, bicentric study included 1629 patients with OPSCC diagnosed between 1992 and 2020. We formed subgroups based on TNM status, American Joint Cancer Committee 8th edition (AJCC8), HPV status, treatment modality (surgery (± radio(chemo)therapy (RCT) vs. definitive RCT) and patient-related risk factors and investigated gender differences and their impact on patients survival via descriptive-,uni- and multivariate analysis.

Results

With the exception of alcohol abuse, no significant differences were found in risk factors between men and women. Females presented with better OS than males in the subgroup T1-2, N + , independent of risk factors (p = 0.008). Males demonstrated significant stratification through all AJCC8 stages (all p < 0.050). In contrast, women were lacking significance between stage II and III (p = 0.992). With regard to therapy (surgery (± R(C)T) – vs. definitive RCT) women treated with surgery had better OS than men in the whole cohort (p = 0.008). Similar results were detected in the HPV-negative OPSCC sub-cohort (p = 0.042) and in high-risk groups (AJCC8 stage III and IV with M0, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Sex-specific differences in OPSCC represent a health disparity, particularly according to staging and treatment, which need to be addressed in future studies.
“It’s already in your body and it’s preventing”: a qualitative study of African female adolescent’s acceptability and preferences for proxy HIV prevention methods in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Fynn Lauren , Gill Katherine , Wallace Melissa , Atujuna Millicent , Duyver Menna , Ngcobo Penelope , Spiegel Hans , Rinehart Alex , Hosek Sybil , Bekker Linda-Gail
Published: November 2023

Background

Advances in biomedical HIV prevention will soon offer young women a choice of HIV prevention methods, including various pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) modalities such as daily oral pills, dapivirine vaginal ring, and long-acting injectable agents. By understanding preferences for contraceptive methods, we may draw analogies for the HIV prevention needs of young women.

The UChoose Study was an open-label randomised cross-over study designed to evaluate the acceptability and preference for several contraceptive options as a proxy for HIV prevention methods that use similar types of administration. The study enrolled healthy HIV uninfected young women aged 15 to 19 years. At enrolment, participants were randomly assigned to a contraceptive method for a period of 16 weeks in the form of monthly Nuvaring® (vaginal ring), daily combined oral contraceptive (daily pills), or bi-monthly injectable contraceptive (injectable). After 16 weeks, participants crossed over to another contraceptive method, and those who had received the injectable and the daily pills received the vaginal ring for another 16 weeks, whereas those who had received the vaginal ring were able to choose between the injectable and daily pills, to ensure that all participants tried the vaginal ring—the least familiar option to the study population.

Results

Thirty-three participants were purposively recruited to participate in seven focus group discussions (FGD) and completed a pre-survey for their assigned group. Our sample comprised 14 participants randomised to use of the vaginal ring and daily pills and 19 participants randomised to use of the vaginal ring and injectable. For most participants, their preferences for a prevention method were based primarily on their desire to avoid negative aspects of one method rather than their positive user experience with another method. Most participants expressed initial hesitancy for trying new contraception method products; however, a lack of familiarity was moderated by a strong interest in diverse user-controlled prevention methods. Participants valued methods that had infrequent dosing and simplified use requirements. The injection and vaginal ring were preferred over daily pills as a potential HIV prevention method.

Conclusion

Expanding the availability of diverse products could provide adolescents with multiple choices in HIV prevention for the uninitiated.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02404038). Registered March 31, 2015—Registered.