bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fifteen‐year symptomatic outcome of patients with nonactionable motor findings on high‐resolution manometry
Authors: Peravali Rahul , Rogers Benjamin D. , Gyawali C. Prakash
Published: January 2024

Background

High‐resolution manometry (HRM) is performed for evaluation of esophageal symptoms, but patient outcome is unclear when no actionable motor disorder is identified. We evaluated long‐term symptomatic outcome of patients with nonactionable HRM findings.

Methods

Patients who underwent (HRM) studies in 2006–2008 were tracked. Patients with achalasia spectrum disorders, foregut surgery before or after HRM, and incomplete symptom documentation were excluded. Symptom questionnaires assessing dominant symptom intensity (DSI, product of symptom severity and frequency recorded on 5‐point Likert scales) and global symptom severity (GSS, from 10 cm visual analog scale) were repeated. Change in symptom burden was compared against HRM motor findings using Chicago Classification 4.0 (CCv4.0), applied retroactively to 2006–2008 data.

Key Results

Overall, 134 patients (median age 68 years, 64.5% female) could be contacted. The majority (73.1%) had normal motility; others had ineffective esophageal motility (8.2%), esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (13.4%), hypercontractile esophagus (3.0%), or absent contractility (2.2%), none managed invasively. Over 15 years of follow‐up, DSI decreased from 8.0 (4.0–16.0) to 1.0 (0.0–6.0) (p < 0.001) and GSS improved from 5.5 (3.3–7.7) to 2.0 (0.0–4.0) (p < 0.001); improvement was consistent across CCv4.0 diagnoses and subgroups. The majority (82.8%) reported improvement over time, and antisecretory medication was the most effective intervention (83.0% improvement). There was no difference in medication efficacy (p = 0.75) or improvement in symptoms (p = 0.20) based on CCv4 diagnosis.

Conclusions and Inferences

Esophageal symptoms improve with conservative symptomatic management over long‐term follow‐up when no conclusive obstructive motor disorders or achalasia spectrum disorders are found on HRM.
The Paper of How: Estimating Treatment Effects Using the Front‐Door Criterion*
Authors: Bellemare Marc F. , Bloem Jeffrey R. , Wexler Noah
Published: January 2024

We illustrate the use of Pearl's (1995) front‐door criterion with observational data with an application in which the assumptions for point identification hold. For identification, the front‐door criterion leverages exogenous mediator variables on the causal path. After a preliminary discussion of the identification assumptions behind and the estimation framework used for the front‐door criterion, we present an empirical application. In our application, we look at the effect of deciding to share an Uber or Lyft ride on tipping by exploiting the algorithm‐driven exogenous variation in whether one actually shares a ride conditional on authorizing sharing, the full fare paid, and origin–destination fixed effects interacted with two‐hour interval fixed effects. We find that most of the observed negative relationship between choosing to share a ride and tipping is driven by customer selection into sharing rather than by sharing itself. In the Appendix, we explore the consequences of violating the identification assumptions for the front‐door criterion.
Anterior Full‐endoscopic Single‐port Double Transcorporeal Spinal Cord Decompression for Noncontinuous Two‐segment Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Technical Note
Authors: Chen Gang , Xin Zhijun , Kong Weijun , Wu Fujun , Li Xuyan , Qiao Yanyu , Yan Xiang , Liao Wenbo
Published: January 2024

Objective

In clinical practice, noncontinuous two‐segment spinal cord cervical spondylosis is a particular form of cervical degenerative disease. Traditional anterior open surgery frequently comes with severe trauma, risks, and debatable treatment options. This study aimed to describe for the first time a novel minimally invasive technique, namely, anterior full‐endoscopic single‐port double transcorporeal spinal cord decompression for the treatment of patients with noncontinuous two‐segment cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Method

From February 2020 to May 2021, five patients with noncontinuous two‐segment cervical spondylotic myelopathy were treated with anterior full‐endoscopic single‐port double transcorporeal spinal cord decompression. Two bone channels were established by the trephine through the vertebral body oblique upward and downward to the herniated disc osteophyte complex, and the full‐endoscopic system could decompress the spinal cord through the channels. All cases were followed up for over 2 years. The modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score and visual analogue scale (VAS) score before and after operation and during follow‐up were used to evaluate the clinical effectiveness. Radiological examinations, including CT and MRI, were utilized to evaluate the efficacy of spinal cord decompression and bone channel repair.

Results

All operations were successfully completed and the average operation time was 185 min, with no operation‐related complications. Compared with the preoperative evaluation, the mJOA score and VAS score were improved at each time point after operation and follow‐up. Postoperative CT and MRI scans showed that the intervertebral disc‐osteophyte complex was removed through the vertebral bone passage, and the spinal cord was fully decompressed. After 24 months of follow‐up, CT and MRI scans showed that the bone channel was almost repaired and healed.

Conclusion

Anterior full‐endoscopic single‐port double transcorporeal spinal cord decompression is an effective minimally invasive technique for noncontinuous two‐segment cervical spondylosis. It provides precise and satisfactory spinal cord decompression under endoscopic visualization with minimum trauma.
Tillering onion AcPAL and AcALL genes regulate trans‐cinnamic acid and allicin accumulation to improve cucumber environmental adaptability and growth
Authors: Fu Yesong , Pan Rong , Gao Wanli , Zheng Jingwen , Cheng Chen , Yang Yang
Published: January 2024

Putative allelochemicals released by tillering onion promote cucumber growth in intercropping systems. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study focused on PHENYLALANINE AMMONIA‐LYASE (PAL) and ALLIINASE (ALL), which play crucial roles in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and organic sulfur metabolism, respectively. The expression levels of AcPAL and AcALL, their enzyme activities, and trans‐cinnamic acid (t‐CA) and allicin content were analyzed in the donor tillering onions. Exogenous application of t‐CA and allicin was conducted on target cucumbers to investigate seedling growth, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened using transcriptome analysis to determine the response metabolic pathways. The results showed that intercropping with cucumber up‐regulated the expression of AcPAL and AcALL and increased the enzymatic activities of AcPAL and AcALL, resulting in increased accumulation of t‐CA and allicin in the tillering onion and rhizosphere soil, particularly in the roots of accession L‐hh, with strong allelopathic potential, compared to monocropping. Application of t‐CA at 25 μg mL−1 and allicin at 50 μg mL−1 significantly enhanced root fresh weight, shoot length, and shoot fresh weight in cucumber seedlings, whereas transcriptome analysis revealed that the DEGs were significantly enriched in plant hormone signal transduction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, MAPK signaling pathway, phenylalanine pathway, and starch and sucrose metabolism. In conclusion, AcPAL and AcALL of tillering onions participate in the accumulation of t‐CA and allicin, inducing the expression of genes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and MAPK signaling pathways to enhance environmental adaptability as well as auxin‐related genes to promote cucumber seedling growth.
Partial substitution of chemical fertilizer by green manure increases succeeding maize yield and annual economic benefit in low‐yield cropland in the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Dong Shide , Gai Guowei , Shi Yiming , Zhang Haibo , Ma Qian , Jiang Zewei , Yu Chunxiao , Yang Shihong , Wang Guangmei
Published: January 2024

Green manures (GM) combined with fertilizer reduction is an efficient measure to alleviate the environmental issues caused by the overapplication of chemical fertilizer. However, both the environmental and economic benefits remain unclear in coastal regions that are affected by both soil salinization and climate change. A field experiment was conducted in low‐yield cropland in the Yellow River Delta to explore the effects of green manure rotation combined with fertilizer reduction on the soil environment and economic sustainability. Two GM species, Vicia villosa (HV) and Orychophragmus violaceus (OV), a traditional winter wheat (Wheat), were grown in winter, with a fallow control (Fallow). In the subsequent maize season, three fertilizer rate treatments, a full rate of 600 kg ha−1 compound fertilizer (F100), 85% of the full rate (F85), and 70% of the full rate (F70), were applied in each former treatment. The results indicated that GM return markedly increased soil total N (TN) and P (TP) before the V6 stage of maize (when maize had 6 leaves). The average TN contents of HV and OV increased by 56.9% and 38.5%, respectively, compared with that of Wheat, while the values for TP were 13.6% and 16.9%. Compared with Fallow, the maize yields of HV and OV increased by 25.6% and 13.8%, respectively, while that of Wheat decreased by 9.1%. The average partial fertilizer productivities (PFPs) for HV and OV increased by 25.3% and 14.0% compared with Fallow, while Wheat decreased by 8.9%. The PFPs for F85 and F70 increased by 19.4% and 37.7%, respectively, compared with F100. Reducing the fertilizer rate to 70% in the HV–maize rotation pattern did not reduce but increased the total net profit and rate of return. Thus, HV–maize rotation combined with 30% fertilizer reduction is suggested for sustainable agriculture in this region.
COVIDAssist: Exploring the perspectives on student assistance during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors:   InciSioN UK Collaborative,   The Royal Society of Medicine Students Section Collaborative,   MedEd Collaborative
Published: January 2024

Introduction

COVID‐19 resulted in medical students volunteering to join the health care workforce. Our study aimed to evaluate the perception of clinical staff on the benefit of students' pandemic response. The secondary aims were to (i) evaluate medical students' team working skills, (ii) identify specialties where medical students were most effective, and (iii) identify areas for further training.

Methods

We conducted a national survey of doctors and nurses. This was conducted in line with a pre‐specified protocol by the International Student Surgical Network UK (Incision UK), with support from The Royal Society of Medicine Students Section Collaborative and MedEd Collaborative. A questionnaire was developed and disseminated following AMEE guidance. Survey responses were quantitatively and qualitatively analysed.

Results

Of the recorded responses (n = 283), the largest group of respondents was junior doctors, (n = 110, 38.9%), and medicine was the most reported specialty (n = 76, 26.9%) of respondents, followed by primary care, with the lowest responses coming from surgery (n = 25, 8.8%). Of the total responses (n = 283), 76.8% of respondents reported that the student response had a positive impact during the pandemic. Four themes were identified: (i) impact on health care service, (ii) impact on health care staff and patients, (iii) student's professional development and (iv) additional training that students require.

Conclusion

Students were an effective part of the pandemic. However, without appropriate definition of their role within a clinical setting, students may be forced to balance learning and service provision. Providing students with dedicated clinical support roles and ward‐based learning roles with a competency‐based approach holds potential to be both a powerful learning tool and strengthen health care systems to face future crises.
Exploring perceptions of factors aiding the development of critical thinking in adult dysphagia: A study among fourth‐year speech‐language pathology students
Authors: Catania A. , Coutts K. A. , Barber N.
Published: January 2024

Background

The assessment and management of adult dysphagia in South Africa is complex as appropriate intervention requires a balance of theoretical knowledge and critical thinking to ensure service delivery is appropriate within a resource‐constrained health care system. Critical thinking involves the skilful evaluation of information to make informed decisions for effective assessment and intervention. It is imperative for Speech‐Language Pathologists (SLPs) to cultivate these skills from an early stage in their careers. This study therefore aims to investigate the factors perceived to enhance critical thinking to shed light on how students transition theory into clinical decision‐making. This is vital to inform future practice in the realm of dysphagia and to enhance Speech Therapy education.

Methods

A qualitative research design was utilised to identify what facilitators assist SLP students to develop critical thinking skills in adult dysphagia. Data were gathered from students across three universities. Fifteen participants answered a self‐developed online survey, and of those, four participated in a follow‐up focus group. The data were analysed using a top‐down approach and reflexive thematic analysis.

Results and Discussion

The results revealed that viewing videos on instrumental assessment measures, case studies and peer learning were perceived to expand critical thinking theoretically. Similarly, critical thinking was best supported in clinical contexts, which provided opportunities to observe expert clinicians at the bedside, obtain individual feedback and access supervision.

Conclusion

The findings yielded recommendations for clinical educators involved in dysphagia training. This is necessary to better prepare SLP students to provide contextually relevant and responsive dysphagia services.
Arabidopsis SNARE SYP132 impacts on PIP2;1 trafficking and function in salinity stress
Authors: Baena Guillermo , Xia Lingfeng , Waghmare Sakharam , Yu ZhiYi , Guo Yue , Blatt Michael R. , Zhang Ben , Karnik Rucha
Published: January 2024

In plants so‐called plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs) are major water channels governing plant water status. Membrane trafficking contributes to functional regulation of major PIPs and is crucial for abiotic stress resilience. Arabidopsis PIP2;1 is rapidly internalised from the plasma membrane in response to high salinity to regulate osmotic water transport, but knowledge of the underlying mechanisms is fragmentary. Here we show that PIP2;1 occurs in complex with SYNTAXIN OF PLANTS 132 (SYP132) together with the plasma membrane H+‐ATPase AHA1 as evidenced through in vivo and in vitro analysis. SYP132 is a multifaceted vesicle trafficking protein, known to interact with AHA1 and promote endocytosis to impact growth and pathogen defence. Tracking native proteins in immunoblot analysis, we found that salinity stress enhances SYP132 interactions with PIP2;1 and PIP2;2 isoforms to promote redistribution of the water channels away from the plasma membrane. Concurrently, AHA1 binding within the SYP132‐complex was significantly reduced under salinity stress and increased the density of AHA1 proteins at the plasma membrane in leaf tissue. Manipulating SYP132 function in Arabidopsis thaliana enhanced resilience to salinity stress and analysis in heterologous systems suggested that the SNARE influences PIP2;1 osmotic water permeability. We propose therefore that SYP132 coordinates AHA1 and PIP2;1 abundance at the plasma membrane and influences leaf hydraulics to regulate plant responses to abiotic stress signals.
Embodying industrial transitions: Melancholy loss, interrupted habit and transitional memory after the end of a coal mine
Authors: Zhang Vickie
Published: January 2024

Geographical and interdisciplinary literatures often focus on the enduring losses engendered by industrial closure and economic change, describing the moment of deindustrialisation as a cut in the fabric of history. In this imaginary, people and place become suspended in the past, through ‘melancholy’ logics of attachment, ruination and loss. The aim of this article is to reorient these melancholy temporalities by demonstrating memory's central, though perhaps paradoxical, role in transitioning bodies through the afterlife of economic closure. Alongside three stories from an empirical study of life after two coal mine closures in Australia and China, I look to theories of melancholy and habit—understood as embodied, preconscious forms of non‐representational memory—to explore workers' capacities to reorient and rebuild subjectivity in the wake of closure's interruptions and disorientations. I emphasise the work of memory in knitting together life after ‘the end’, through transitional processes of reckoning, acting and learning that engender changing bodily intensities and evaluations, and the possibility of a renewed sense of life as ordinary. Taken together, this article makes paired contributions to literatures on economic change and geographies of memory. By looking beyond linear narratives of rupture and decline, it recognises the afterlife of industrial closure as an intimate site of transition without losing sight of the past. By showing how even melancholy memories are imbricated in the production of altered presents and futures, it emphasises memory's parallax operation as an embodied force of differentiation.
Receiver operating characteristics of computed tomography (CT) compared to cystoscopy in diagnosis of canine ectopic ureters: Thirty‐five cases
Authors: Song Min Kyong , Fracka Agnieszka B. , Karn Krystina , Roberts Gregory D. , Fransson Boel A.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine receiver operating characteristics (ROC) of computed tomographic excretory urography (CTEU) in predicting cystoscopic findings of ureteral anatomy.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Animals

Thirty‐five client‐owned dogs.

Methods

The medical records of dogs referred for suspected ectopic ureters were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included CTEU findings reported by board‐certified radiologists, followed by rigid cystoscopy with or without ureteral cystoscopic laser ablation (CLA). Data included signalment, urinary incontinence degree, body condition score, weight, degree of colon distension, CTEU and cystoscopy findings. ROC analysis was used to compare CT‐predicted ureteral orthotopia/ectopia to cystoscopy findings. Additionally, ROC of CT predicted ureteral orifice locations was analyzed. Regression covariate analysis was performed to identify factors that may have influenced accuracy of diagnosis.

Results

The ability of CT to identify a normal and intra‐or extramural ectopic ureters conclusively and correctly was 13/26 (50%) and 32/41(78%), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of identifying extramural versus intramural ureters was 2/7 versus 30/46 (29 vs. 65%) and 61/63 versus 17/24 (97 vs. 71%), respectively. Ectopic orifice determination sensitivity and specificity varied widely depending on location from 0% to 76% and 67% to 97%, respectively. Covariate analysis failed to identify interfering factors.

Conclusions

CT did not accurately predict anatomy of ureters; CT findings may need confirmation by cystoscopy and possibly intraoperative fluoroscopy prior to determining if CLA is indicated or not.

Clinical significance

Our results may be of importance for surgeons interpreting the CTEU findings. CTEU prediction of the location of the ureteral orifice shows low sensitivity especially in or close to the urethral sphincter area.
A Systematic Review on Social Media Health Communications and Behavioural Development among Indians in the COVID-19 Context
Authors: Brony Maria , Alivi Mumtaz Aini , Syed Md Azalanshah Md , Dharejo Nasrullah
Published: January 2024

Social media holds enormous power in directing the flow of health information during a health crisis and can tap into the individual and collective consciousness to make behavioural improvements. Being the third country with the highest number of COVID-19 cases reported worldwide, the magnitude of the pandemic was immense in the Indian context; timely health communications that prompt individuals to adopt preventive measures were crucial in the process of risk control. This systematic review consolidated evidence on the effect of COVID-related social media communications on the development of protective behaviours among the Indian population. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and CINAHL yielded 11 studies highlighting six themes related to social media and protective behaviours. The themes associated with the positive impact of social media include catalysing awareness, shaping psychological responses and perceptions at an individual level, behavioural changes at a community level and social media as the most influential media source for behavioural improvements. The negative effects comprise misinformation and disparities that emerge from social media health communications.
The Guiding Role of Social Media in the Socialization of Celebrity Fans
Authors: Fan Xiaoyu , Shamshudeen Rosya Izyanie , Rahamad Mohamad Saleeh
Published: January 2024

This paper focuses on the role of social media in guiding the socialization of celebrity fans through qualitative research. Specifically, we explore fans’ choices of social media platforms and the navigating role of fan communities on fans’ personal identity, group identity and emotional labor. Through the analysis of social media platforms as well as in-depth interviews with fans, we find that the various features and functions of social media platforms have different impacts on the socialization of fans in China. At the same time, fan communities can also provide a place for fans to communicate and identify with each other, promote interaction and emotional exchange among them, and enhance the sense of belonging and pride. These findings have important theoretical and practical implications for understanding the role of social media in guiding the socialization of celebrity fans.
Cost-effectiveness of newborn screening for sickle cell disease: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Mahapatra Biswajit , Mukherjee Nirmalya , Khatoon Sajda , Bhattacharya Paramita , Thubru Edakashwa , John Denny
Published: January 2024

Objective:

The purpose of this systematic review is to assess the cost-effectiveness of targeted/selective newborn screening compared with universal screening for sickle cell disease across various countries and settings.

Introduction:

The incidence of sickle cell disease is a widespread and potentially fatal hematologic disorder that affects thousands of newborns worldwide. The cost of newborn screening creates a burden on households and the economy.

Inclusion criteria:

Studies will be eligible for inclusion in the review if they focus on the cost-effectiveness of newborn screening for sickle cell disease, comparing targeted/selective screening with universal screening.

Methods:

A preliminary search of MEDLINE (PubMed) was undertaken using MeSH terms, such as sickle cell disease, newborn, and economic evaluations. Two reviewers will screen the titles, abstracts, and full text independently against the inclusion criteria. Disagreements will be resolved by discussion or with a third reviewer. To assess methodological quality, the JBI checklist for economic evaluation will be used. Data will be extracted by 2 reviewers using a modified JBI data extraction form. The JBI dominance ranking matrix for economic evaluations will be used to summarize and compare the results. Cost-effectiveness will be measured on the basis of cost per test/case detected, quality-adjusted life years gained, or disability-adjusted life years averted. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment will be conducted to evaluate the certainty of economic evidence, such as use of resources and expenditures, and to incorporate the results into the decision-making process.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42017057963
Begun, the Drone Wars Have
Authors: Wolverton Mark
Published: January 2024

Uncrewed aerial systems have been used by the American military for decades, but those have been relatively large and expensive vehicles, often operated by pilots hundreds or thousands of miles away. The war in Ukraine has taken drone warfare to new levels of sophistication and immediacy, with a small military power more than holding its own against a major and supposedly far superior opponent, and with troops in the theater of operation using the UASs to spot for artillery or engage nearby enemy formations directly.
Study on Heat Transfer Characteristics of High-Speed Herringbone Gear in Meshing Process Under Oil Injection Lubrication
Authors: Chu Xiaomeng , Liu Yali , Zeng Hong
Published: January 2024

To quantify the relationship between the total frictional heat and the absorbed heat by the oil film in the herringbone gear transmission, this article investigates the lubrication status and thermal characteristics of the tooth meshing point under the fuel injection condition. First, the contact analysis of the herringbone gears is carried out—studying the variation pattern of the maximum pressure, highest temperature rise, and minimum film thickness of different oil films at various mesh points along the meshing line. Second, the friction coefficient and frictional power for the meshing points on the tooth surface are calculated to determine the ratio of oil film pressure to total pressure distribution. This completes the allocation of frictional power for the meshing points of the driving and driven gears. Finally, by comparing the total heat generated by frictional shear with the heat absorbed by the oil film, the numerical relationship between the two can be quantified.
Breakage of Beaded Fibers in a Polymer Matrix
Authors: Xu Min , An Bingbing
Published: January 2024

Intermittent beading is a promising design strategy that enables simultaneous improvement of strength and toughness of fiber-reinforced composites. Despite the potential for amplification in mechanical properties, the failure mechanisms of beaded fiber composites are not fully understood. In this study, calculations are carried out for the breakage of beaded fibers in the polymer matrix composites. The plastic deformation of the polymer matrix and debonding of the bead–matrix, fiber–bead, and fiber–matrix interfaces are accounted for in the numerical analyses. It is found that the location of fiber break is governed by the toughness of the fiber–bead interface and fiber strength. The low toughness of fiber–bead interface promotes the emergence of break inside bead, and high fiber strength is capable of activating break outside bead. The break at the edge of bead prevails in most cases. We have further revealed that the fiber–matrix interface with high strength and enhanced toughness can give rise to large amount of fiber breaks, while low degree of fiber cracking emerges in the case of strong fiber–bead interface. For the bead–matrix interface, the intermediate interfacial strength generates a high degree of fiber breaks and low interfacial toughness suppresses fiber cracking, leading to small amount of fiber breaks. In addition, the dependence of plastic dissipation in the polymer matrix on fiber breakage is elucidated.
A Coupled Fluid-Structure Model for Estimation of Hydraulic Forces on the Drill-Pipes
Authors: Passos Volpi Lucas , Cayeux Eric , Wiggo Time Rune
Published: January 2024

Most models employed for fluid forces in drill-string dynamics are of reduced order. The simplified nature of these models often fails to describe the complex behavior of the fluid force, in particular, when the drill-string movement is non-trivial or even when non-Newtonian behavior is predominant. In this work, the fluid forces are estimated by modeling the dynamic of the drilling fluid for both Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids, and compared with reduced-order models. To achieve it, the lattice-Boltzmann method is implemented to solve the fluid model, while prescribed movements are set for the tool-joint. With the obtained fields, the forces are calculated and compared with recurrent models. Finally, it is observed that some models are capable of describing the interaction as long as the dynamic of the tool-joint is simple. In the presence of other trajectories—e.g., bouncing and chaotic—the models fail to describe the details of the dynamic.
Influence of body mass normalization on the correlations between muscle cross-sectional area and physical performance outcomes in older women
Authors: Palmer Ty B , Palmer Bailey M
Published: January 2024

Aims: Normalization is a method used to account for body mass in clinical practice and research. It is unclear if this method will improve the correlation between muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and physical performance. We examined the correlations between quadriceps muscle morphology parameters and physical performance outcomes in older women. Material and methods: Twenty older women participated in this study. Ultrasound imaging was used to measure quadriceps muscle CSA and echo intensity. Muscle CSA was expressed as an absolute value (cm2) and as a relative value normalized to body mass (cm2/kg). Physical performance was assessed from timed up‐and‐go and 6-min walk tests.Results: Relative CSA was significantly related to timed up-and-go scores (r=-0.489, p=0.029) and 6-min walking speed (r=0.606, p=0.005), whereas absolute CSA was not significantly associated with these performances (r=-0.231, p=0.327 and r=0.373, p=0.105). There was a significant correlation between absolute CSA and body mass (r=0.456, p=0.043). There were also significant correlations between echo intensity and timed up-and-go scores (r=0.556, p=0.011) and 6-min walking speed (r=-0.484, p=0.031).Conclusions: Our study showed that relative CSA correlated better than absolute CSA with physical performance. These findings support the need to normalize measurements of muscle CSA to body mass in older adults.
Can the width of lower tongue base preoperative sonography measurements predict hypoxemia during esophagogastroduodenoscopy under sedation in ASA I-II patients?
Authors: Wu Hao , Xia Min , Chen Xu , Wang Sheng , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2024

Aim: The most common complication during esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) under sedation is hypoxemia. There is a scarcity of indicators to predict the risk of hypoxemia during EGD under sedation accurately. The width of the lower tongue base measured by ultrasound (US) is considered to be a significant predictor of the presence and severity of obstructive sleepapnea syndrome (OSAS), which develops hypoxemia by a similar mechanism to EGD under sedation. This study aimed to observe its ability to predict hypoxemia during EGD under sedation.Material and methodsː Adult patients undergoing EGD under sedation at our hospital after assessment in the anesthesia clinic were enrolled in the study. The width of the lower tongue base was measured as the distance between the lingual arteries (DLA) on both sides of the inferior lateral margin of the tongue by US. The primary outcome was hypoxemia defined as the SpO2 <90% for longer than 10 seconds during EGD under sedation. ResultsːA total of 304 patients were successfully included, and hypoxemia was reported in 32 patients (10.5%). The DLA prediction criterion for hypoxemia was >31 mm. The DLA was correlated with hypoxemia (Spearman correlation coefficient, 0.455; p<0.001) and owned the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.927; 99% CI, 0.891 to 0.953, compared with that of the other predictors, p< 0.001) with hypoxemia.Conclusionsː The width of the lower tongue base, measured as the DLA by US examination can be used to effectively predict the risk of hypoxemia during EGD under sedation.
Consistent Individual Tendencies in Motor Speed–Accuracy Trade-Off
Authors: Pacheco Matheus M. , Lafe Charley W. , Chen Che-Hsiu , Hsieh Tsung-Yu
Published: January 2024

The literature on speed–accuracy trade-off (SAT) in motor control has evidenced individuality in how individuals trade moments (e.g., mean and variance) of spatial and temporal errors. These individual tendencies could grasp tendencies of the system given previous experiences and constraints of the organism, a signature of the system control. Nonetheless, such tendency must be robust to small perturbations. Thirty participants performed nine conditions with different time and spatial criteria over 2 days (scanning). In between these scanning conditions, individuals performed a practice condition that required modifications of the individuals’ preferred spatial and temporal tendency in the SAT. Our results demonstrated that there were no systematic effects of practice in SAT preferences. However, individual analyses demonstrated significant changes for 25 out of 30 individuals. The latter either attests against a consistent preference or to a more complex characterization of individual SAT tendencies.
Short- and Long-Term Changes in Balance After Active Video Game Training in Children With and Without Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Draghi Tatiane Targino Gomes , Smits-Engelsman Bouwien , Godoi-Jacomassi Daniela , Cavalcante Neto Jorge Lopes , Jelsma Dorothee , Tudella Eloisa
Published: January 2024

Active video games (AVG) have been used as training tools and are known to ameliorate balance performance in children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Our aim was to evaluate balance using clinical tests and by measuring body sway using a force plate with a mixed design of vision (eyes open/eyes closed), surface (rigid/soft), and support (stance/semitandem) before, and after, training and 4 months later (follow-up). Thirty-six DCD children and 40 typically developing children participated in the study, of which 50 children (26 DCD; 24 typically developing) were retested after 4 months. Balance improved on the clinical measures after the training, which was independent of type of AVG (Wii-Fit and Xbox Kinect) used, and this effect was still present after 4 months. The AVG training did not influence general sway behavior, but only sway in the eyes-open condition, corresponding with task demands of the training and indicating a training-specific effect. Overall, DCD children and typically developing children responded comparably to the AVG training, thereby maintaining the gap in performance between the two groups. The changes in postural sway are interpreted as a sign of more confidence and less freezing of the joints, enabling greater flexibility of movements and balance strategies as supported by the improved performance on balance tests in the DCD children. This is the first study that showed long-term effects of AVG training on balance performance. However, these follow-up results should be interpreted with caution given that 35% of the children were lost in follow-up.
Transmission-reducing and -enhancing monoclonal antibodies against
Plasmodium vivax
gamete surface protein Pvs48/45
Authors: Bansal Geetha P. , Araujo Maisa da Silva , Cao Yi , Shaffer Emily , Araujo Jessica Evangelista , Medeiros Jansen Fernandes , Hayashi Clifford , Vinetz Joseph , Kumar Nirbhay
Published: January 2024

Gamete surface protein P48/45 has been shown to be important for male gamete fertility and a strong candidate for the development of a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV). However, TBV development for
Plasmodium vivax
homolog Pvs48/45 has been slow because of a number of challenges: availability of conformationally suitable recombinant protein; the lack of an
in vivo
challenge model; and the inability to produce
P. vivax
gametocytes in culture to test transmission-blocking activity of antibodies. To support ongoing efforts to develop Pvs48/45 as a potential vaccine candidate, we initiated efforts to develop much needed reagents to move the field forward. We generated monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against Pvs48/45 and characterized putative functional domains in Pvs48/45 using recombinant fragments corresponding to domains D1–D3 and their biological functionality through
ex vivo
direct membrane feeding assays (DMFAs) using
P. vivax
parasites from patients in a field setting in Brazil. While some mAbs partially blocked oocyst development in the DMFA, one mAb caused a significant enhancement of the infectivity of gametocytes in the mosquitoes. Individual mAbs exhibiting blocking and enhancing activities recognized non-overlapping epitopes in Pvs48/45. Further characterization of precise epitopes recognized by transmission-reducing and -enhancing antibodies will be crucial to design an effective immunogen with optimum transmission-reducing potential.
Comparison of mouse models of microbial experience reveals differences in microbial diversity and response to vaccination
Authors: Sanders Autumn E. , Arnesen Henriette , Shepherd Frances K. , Putri Dira S. , Fiege Jessica K. , Pierson Mark J. , Roach Shanley N. , Carlsen Harald , Masopust David , Boysen Preben , Langlois Ryan A.
Published: January 2024

Specific pathogen-free (SPF) laboratory mice dominate preclinical studies for immunology and vaccinology. Unfortunately, SPF mice often fail to accurately model human responses to vaccination and other immunological perturbations. Several groups have taken different approaches to introduce additional microbial experience to SPF mice to better model human immune experience. How these different models compare is unknown. Here, we directly compare three models: housing SPF mice in a microbe-rich barn-like environment (feralizing), adding wild-caught mice to the barn-like environment (fer-cohoused), or cohousing SPF mice with pet store mice in a barrier facility (pet-cohoused); the two latter representing different murine sources of microbial transmission. Pet-cohousing mice resulted in the greatest microbial exposure. Feralizing alone did not result in the transmission of any pathogens tested, while fer-cohousing resulted in the transmission of several picornaviruses. Murine astrovirus 2, the most common pathogen from pet store mice, was absent from the other two model systems. Previously, we had shown that pet-cohousing reduced the antibody response to vaccination compared with SPF mice. This was not recapitulated in either the feralized or fer-cohoused mice. These data indicate that not all dirty mouse models are equivalent in either microbial experience or immune responses to vaccination. These disparities suggest that more cross model comparisons are needed but also represent opportunities to uncover microbe combination-specific phenotypes and develop more refined experimental models. Given the breadth of microbes encountered by humans across the globe, multiple model systems may be needed to accurately recapitulate heterogenous human immune responses.

IMPORTANCE

Animal models are an essential tool for evaluating clinical interventions. Unfortunately, they can often fail to accurately predict outcomes when translated into humans. This failure is due in part to a lack of natural infections experienced by most laboratory animals. To improve the mouse model, we and others have exposed laboratory mice to microbes they would experience in the wild. Although these models have been growing in popularity, these different models have not been specifically compared. Here, we directly compare how three different models of microbial experience impact the immune response to influenza vaccination. We find that these models are not the same and that the degree of microbial exposure affects the magnitude of the response to vaccination. These results provide an opportunity for the field to continue comparing and contrasting these systems to determine which models best recapitulate different aspects of the human condition.
Quinalizarin as a potential antifungal drug for the treatment of
Candida albicans
fungal infection in cancer patients
Authors: Janeczko Monika , Kochanowicz Elżbieta , Górka Kamila , Skrzypek Tomasz
Published: January 2024

This study aims to analyze the antifungal properties of quinalizarin, a plant-derived compound with proven anticancer effects. Quinalizarin exhibited antifungal activity against opportunistic pathogenic
Candida
species and
Geotrichum capitatum
. The treatment with this anthraquinone reduced hyphal growth, inhibited biofilm formation, and damaged mature
Candida albicans
biofilms. Real-time RT-PCR revealed that quinalizarin downregulated the expression of hyphae-related and biofilm-specific genes. The flow cytometry method used in the study showed that both apoptosis and necrosis were the physiological mechanisms of quinalizarin-induced
C. albicans
cell death, depending on the dose of the antifungal agent. A further study revealed an increase in the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species and alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential after treatment with quinalizarin. Finally, quinalizarin was found to have low toxicity in a hemolytic test using human erythrocytes. In conclusion, we have identified quinalizarin as a potential antifungal compound.

IMPORTANCE

This article is a study to determine the antifungal activity of quinalizarin (1,2,5,8-tetrahydroxyanthraquinone). Quinalizarin has potential antitumor properties and is effective in different types of tumor cells. The aim of the present study was to prove that quinalizarin can be used simultaneously in the treatment of cancer and in the treatment of intercurrent fungal infections. Quinalizarin was identified as a novel antifungal compound with low toxicity. These results may contribute to the development of a new drug with dual activity in the treatment of cancer-associated candidiasis.
Erratum to: Modern Approaches to the Extraction and Preconcentration of Biologically Active Compounds from Plant Samples by Microextraction Methods for Their Determination by Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Bessonova E. A. , Karpitskii D. A. , Kartsova L. A.
Published: January 2024

An Erratum to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1134/S1061934823440016
Imaging geographic atrophy: integrating structure and function to better understand the effects of new treatments
Authors: Vujosevic Stela , Loewenstein Anat , O'Toole Louise , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula Margarethe , Zur Dinah , Chakravarthy Usha
Published: January 2024

Geographic atrophy (GA) is an advanced and irreversible form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Chronic low grade inflammation is thought to act as an initiator of this degenerative process, resulting in loss of photoreceptors (PRs), retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the underlying choriocapillaris. This review examined the challenges of clinical trials to date which have sought to treat GA, with particular reference to the successful outcome of C3 complement inhibition. Currently, optical coherence tomography (OCT) seems to be the most suitable method to detect GA and monitor the effect of treatment. In addition, the merits of using novel anatomical endpoints in detecting GA expansion are discussed. Although best-corrected visual acuity is commonly used to monitor disease in GA, other tests to determine visual function are explored. Although not widely available, microperimetry enables quantification of retinal sensitivity (RS) and macular fixation behaviour related to fundus characteristics. There is a spatial correlation between OCT/fundus autofluorescence evaluation of PR damage outside the area of RPE loss and RS on microperimetry, showing important associations with visual function. Standardisation of testing by microperimetry is necessary to enable this modality to detect AMD progression. Artificial intelligence (AI) analysis has shown PR layers integrity precedes and exceeds GA loss. Loss of the ellipsoid zone has been recognised as a primary outcome parameter in therapeutic trials for GA. The integrity of the PR layers imaged by OCT at baseline has been shown to be an important prognostic indicator. AI has the potential to be invaluable in personalising care and justifying treatment intervention.
Estimating the ratio of fatal to non-fatal overdoses involving all drugs, all opioids, synthetic opioids, heroin or stimulants, USA, 2010–2020
Authors: Casillas Shannon M , Pickens Cassandra M , Tanz Lauren J , Vivolo-Kantor Alana M
Published: January 2024

Introduction

US drug overdose deaths are at historic levels. For every fatal drug overdose, there are many more non-fatal; however, minimal nationally representative data exist on trends in the ratio of fatal to non-fatal drug overdoses and how this differs by drug type.

Methods

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Vital Statistics System were used to assess the number of fatal overdoses; data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Emergency Department Sample database were used to estimate the number of non-fatal overdoses treated in emergency departments. Counts of fatal and non-fatal overdoses by drug type (all drug, all opioid, synthetic opioid, heroin, stimulant, and opioid and stimulant polysubstance) were calculated from 2010 to 2020 (for non-fatal synthetic opioid-involved overdoses, from 2016 to 2020 only). Trends in overdose counts and the ratio of fatal to non-fatal overdoses were assessed.

Results

On average, counts of fatal overdoses increased quarterly among all drug types, and non-fatal overdoses increased among most drug types. Over the 11-year period, the greatest average quarterly percent change (AQPC) in fatal overdose counts was among synthetic opioid-involved overdoses (AQPC: 7.1%; 95% CI: 6.0 to 8.2) and for non-fatal overdoses was among heroin-involved overdoses (AQPC: 4.3%; 95% CI: 3.9 to 4.8). During 2010‒2020, there was approximately 1 fatal overdose per 15 non-fatal. The ratio of fatal to non-fatal drug overdoses increased among every drug type except heroin; ratio increases were driven by greater relative increases in fatal overdoses compared with non-fatal.

Conclusions

Assessment of the ratio of fatal to non-fatal drug overdoses can be used to understand the lethality of different drugs and inform response and prevention efforts.