bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between reported dengue illness history and seropositivity in rural Thailand
Authors: Buddhari Darunee , Anderson Kathryn B. , Gromowski Gregory D. , Jarman Richard G. , Iamsirithaworn Sopon , Thaisomboonsuk Butsaya , Hunsawong Taweewun , Srikiatkhachorn Anon , Rothman Alan L. , Jones Anthony R. , Fernandez Stefan , Thomas Stephen J. , Endy Timothy P.
Published: June 2021

In the latest World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation for Dengvaxia implementation, either serological testing or a person’s history of prior dengue illness may be used as supporting evidence to identify dengue virus (DENV)-immune individuals eligible for vaccination, in areas with limited capacity for laboratory confirmation. This analysis aimed to estimate the concordance between self-reported dengue illness histories and seropositivity in a prospective cohort study for dengue virus infection in Kamphaeng Phet province, a dengue-endemic area in northern Thailand. The study enrolled 2,076 subjects from 516 multigenerational families, with a median age of 30.6 years (range 0–90 years). Individual and family member dengue illness histories were obtained by questionnaire. Seropositivity was defined based on hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) assays. Overall seropositivity for DENV was 86.5% among those aged 9–45 years, which increased with age. 18.5% of participants reported a history of dengue illness prior to enrollment; 30.1% reported a previous DENV infection in the family, and 40.1% reported DENV infection in either themselves or a family member. Relative to seropositivity by HAI in the vaccine candidate group, the sensitivity and specificity of individual prior dengue illness history were 18.5% and 81.6%, respectively; sensitivity and specificity of reported dengue illness in a family member were 29.8% and 68.0%, and of either the individual or a family member were 40.1% and 60.5%. Notably, 13.4% of individuals reporting prior dengue illness were seronegative. Given the high occurrence of asymptomatic and mild DENV infection, self-reported dengue illness history is poorly sensitive for prior exposure and may misclassify individuals as ‘exposed’ when they were not. This analysis highlights that a simple, highly sensitive, and highly specific test for determining serostatus prior to Dengvaxia vaccination is urgently needed.
Age-preserved semantic memory and the CRUNCH effect manifested as differential semantic control networks: An fMRI study
Authors: Haitas Niobe , Amiri Mahnoush , Wilson Maximiliano , Joanette Yves , Steffener Jason
Published: June 2021

Semantic memory representations are overall well-maintained in aging whereas semantic control is thought to be more affected. To explain this phenomenon, this study aims to test the predictions of the Compensation Related Utilization of Neural Circuits Hypothesis (CRUNCH) focusing on task demands in aging as a possible framework. The CRUNCH effect would manifest itself in semantic tasks through a compensatory increase in neural activation in semantic control network regions but only up to a certain threshold of task demands. This study will compare 40 young (20–35 years old) with 40 older participants (60–75 years old) in a triad-based semantic judgment task performed in an fMRI scanner while manipulating levels of task demands (low vs. high) through semantic distance. In line with the CRUNCH predictions, differences in neurofunctional activation and behavioral performance (accuracy and response times) are expected in young vs. old participants in the low- vs. high-demand conditions manifested in semantic control Regions of Interest.
Extended seed rain period of Adenostoma fasciculatum impacts diverse seed predators
Authors: Garaventa Joanna M. , Parker V. Thomas
Published: June 2021

Aims

The principal chaparral species in California,Adenostoma fasciculatum, an evergreen, sclerophyllous shrub, is broadly distributed and provides habitat and food resources for a large and diverse animal community. The effects of climate change, including elevated temperatures, fire frequency and severity, along with increased urban encroachment, have placed pressure on chaparral habitats in California. Our goal is to investigate aspects of reproductive ecology as a measure of the potential resiliency ofA.fasciculatum. We focus on seed rain (all seed falling into the seed traps regardless of origin) and seed banks in the context of plant-animal interactions and regeneration.

Methods

Stand recovery following disturbance is achieved through both resprouting and germination from established persistent soil seed banks. In this study we focus on seed ecology using a series of experiments to document the length and quantity of seed rain, seed predation, parsing the importance of the community of granivores, and evaluating the connection between stand age and germination rate from soil seed banks.

Important findings

Our research documented an 8-month seed rain duration with over 1 million seeds per m2, multiple seed predators including passerines (songbirds) and rodents, and points to the possibility of native ants playing a role in the seed dispersal process. This is important given the recent advancement of the invasive Argentine ant (Linepthema humile) into Californian chaparral. This research demonstrates a clear relationship betweenA.fasciculatumand both resident and migratory granivores in the chaparral. We documented that a 39-year-old stand had higher germination rates than those which were 16, 20, 41 and 71 years old and how seed banks play a major role in assuring resiliency following fire. These findings are important for wildland managers to assure the continued resiliency ofA.fasciculatum.
Cement augmentation for trochanteric femur fractures: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials and observational studies
Authors: Rompen Ingmar F. , Knobe Matthias , Link Bjoern-Christian , Beeres Frank J. P. , Baumgaertner Ralf , Diwersi Nadine , Migliorini Filippo , Nebelung Sven , Babst Reto , van de Wall Bryan J. M.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

To date, it is unclear what the clinical benefit of cement augmentation in fixation for trochanteric fractures is. The aim of this meta-analysis is to compare cement augmentation to no augmentation in fixation of trochanteric femur fractures in the elderly patients (>65 years) following low energy trauma.

Methods

PubMed/Medline/Embase/CENTRAL/CINAHL were searched for both randomized clinical trials (RCT) and observational studies comparing both treatments. Effect estimates were pooled across studies using random effects models. Subgroup analysis was performed stratified by study design (RCTs and observational studies). The primary outcome is overall complication rate. Secondary outcomes include re-operation rate, mortality, operation duration, hospital stay, general quality of life, radiologic measures and functional hip scores.

Results

A total of four RCT’s (437 patients) and three observational studies (293 patients) were included. The effect estimates of RCTs were equal to those obtained from observational studies. Cement augmentation has a significantly lower overall complication rate (28.3% versus 47.2%) with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.3 (95%CI 0.1–0.7). The occurrence of device/fracture related complications was the largest contributing factor to this higher overall complication rate in the non-augmented group (19.9% versus 6.0%, OR 0.2, 95%CI 0.1–0.6). Cement augmentation also carries a lower risk for re-interventions (OR 0.2, 95%CI 0.1–0.7) and shortens the hospital stay with 2 days (95%CI -2.2 to -0.5 days). The mean operation time was 7 minutes longer in the augmented group (95%CI 1.3–12.9). Radiological scores (lag screw/blade sliding mean difference -3.1mm, 95%CI -4.6 to -1.7, varus deviation mean difference -6.15°, 95%CI; -7.4 to -4.9) and functional scores (standardized mean difference 0.31, 95%CI 0.0–0.6) were in favor of cement augmentation. Mortality was equal in both groups (OR 0.7, 95%CI 0.4–1.3) and cement related complications were rare.

Conclusion

Cement augmentation in fixation of trochanteric femoral fractures leads to fewer complications, re-operations and shorter hospital stay at the expense of a slightly longer operation duration. Cementation related complications occur rarely and mortality is equal between treatment groups. Based on these results, cement augmentation should be considered for trochanteric fractures in elderly patients.
How do patients with borderline personality disorder experience Distress Tolerance Skills in the context of dialectical behavioral therapy?—A qualitative study
Authors: Schaich Anja , Braakmann Diana , Rogg Mirco , Meine Clara , Ambrosch Julia , Assmann Nele , Borgwardt Stefan , Schweiger Ulrich , Fassbinder Eva
Published: June 2021

Distress Tolerance Skills (DTS) are an important component of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), a therapy method frequently used for treating patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). However, little is known about how DTS-training is experienced by individuals with BPD. The aim of this study was to explore BPD patients’ experiences with receiving DTS-training. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 24 individuals (87.5% females) with a primary diagnosis of BPD who received DTS-training in the context of 18 months of DBT treatment. Interview data were analyzed following the procedures of qualitative content analysis. Participants reported various effects of DTS including an immediate reduction of tension. Patients perceived DTS as a tool to cope with difficult interpersonal situations and emergencies and stated that this helped them to feel stable, safe and self-confident. Patients reported difficulties during the initial engagement, the learning process and the application of DTS as well as various facilitating factors. Implications of the findings for further research and for optimizing DTS-training in clinical practice are discussed.
Dynamic capabilities, value creation and value capture: Evidence from SMEs under Covid-19 lockdown in Poland
Authors: Dyduch Wojciech , Chudziński Paweł , Cyfert Szymon , Zastempowski Maciej
Published: June 2021

Dynamic capabilities, resulting from activities that allow conscious and skillful modification of a firm’s strategic potential, are seen as one of the key drivers of a firm’s value creation, competitive advantage and above-average performance in changing environments. However, little is known about how dynamic capabilities can shape business survival and performance during crises. The research objective of this paper is twofold. First, through a literature review, we seek to identify which first-order dynamic capabilities–managerial decisions under uncertainty—are vital for rapid response to a crisis. Second, we present the results of research carried out among 151 small and medium-sized companies in Poland immediately after the beginning of the economic lockdown (April 2020). The survey that we developed identifies which dynamic capabilities were essential for businesses to survive during this unexpected black swan event. We also present dependence and regression analyses showing the links between the identified dynamic capabilities and value creation, understood as retaining employees and production levels, as well as value capture, understood as maintaining cash flow and current revenues.
Value of spectral detector computed tomography for the early assessment of technique efficacy after microwave ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Reimer Robert Peter , Hokamp Nils Große , Niehoff Julius , Zopfs David , Lennartz Simon , Heidar Mariam , Wahba Roger , Stippel Dirk , Maintz David , dos Santos Daniel Pinto , Wybranski Christian
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To investigate whether virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) and iodine maps derived from spectral detector computed tomography (SDCT) improve early assessment of technique efficacy in patients who underwent microwave ablation (MWA) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in liver cirrhosis.

Methods

This retrospective study comprised 39 patients with 49 HCC lesions treated with MWA. Biphasic SDCT was performed 7.7±4.0 days after ablation. Conventional images (CI), VMI and IM were reconstructed. Signal- and contrast-to-noise ratio (SNR, CNR) in the ablation zone (AZ), hyperemic rim (HR) and liver parenchyma were calculated using regions-of-interest analysis and compared between CI and VMI between 40–100 keV. Iodine concentration and perfusion ratio of HR and residual tumor (RT) were measured. Two readers evaluated subjective contrast of AZ and HR, technique efficacy (complete vs. incomplete ablation) and diagnostic confidence at determining technique efficacy.

Results

Attenuation of liver parenchyma, HR and RT, SNR of liver parenchyma and HR, CNR of AZ and HR were significantly higher in low-keV VMI compared to CI (all p<0.05). Iodine concentration and perfusion ratio differed significantly between HR and RT (all p<0.05; e.g. iodine concentration, 1.6±0.5 vs. 2.7±1.3 mg/ml). VMI50keV improved subjective AZ-to-liver contrast, HR-to-liver contrast, visualization of AZ margin and vessels adjacent to AZ compared to CI (all p<0.05). Diagnostic accuracy for detection of incomplete ablation was slightly higher in VMI50keV compared to CI (0.92 vs. 0.89), while diagnostic confidence was significantly higher in VMI50keV (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Spectral detector computed tomography derived low-keV virtual monoenergetic images and iodine maps provide superior early assessment of technique efficacy of MWA in HCC compared to CI.
Attitudes, beliefs and behaviors of religiosity, spirituality, and cultural competence in the medical profession: A cross-sectional survey study
Authors: Dillard Victoria , Moss Julia , Padgett Natalie , Tan Xiyan , Kennedy Ann Blair
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Religion and spirituality play important roles in the lives of many, including healthcare providers and their patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between religion, spirituality, and cultural competence of healthcare providers.

Methods

Physicians, residents, and medical students were recruited through social platforms to complete an electronically delivered survey, gathering data regarding demographics, cultural competency, religiosity, and spirituality. Four composite variables were created to categorize cultural competency: Patient Care Knowledge, Patient Care Skills/Abilities, Professional Interactions, and Systems Level Interactions. Study participants (n = 144) were grouped as Christian (n = 95)/non-Christian (n = 49) and highly religious (n = 62)/not highly religious (n = 82); each group received a score in the four categories. Wilcoxon rank sum and Chi-square tests were used for analysis of continuous and discrete variables.

Results

A total of 144 individuals completed the survey with the majority having completed medical school (n = 87), identifying as women (n = 108), white (n = 85), Christian (n = 95), and not highly religious (n = 82). There were no significant differences amongst Christian versus non-Christian groups or highly religious versus not highly religious groups when comparing their patient care knowledge (p = .563, p = .457), skills/abilities (p = .423, p = .51), professional interactions (p = .191, p = .439), or systems level interaction scores (p = .809, p = .078). Nevertheless, participants reported decreased knowledge of different healing traditions (90%) and decreased skills inquiring about religious/spiritual and cultural beliefs that may affect patient care (91% and 88%). Providers also reported rarely referring patients to religious services (86%).

Conclusions

Although this study demonstrated no significant impact of healthcare providers’ religious/spiritual beliefs on the ability to deliver culturally competent care, it did reveal gaps around how religion and spirituality interact with health and healthcare. This suggests a need for improved cultural competence education.
The role of state feelings of loneliness in the situational regulation of social affiliative behavior: Exploring the regulatory relations within a multilevel framework
Authors: Reissmann Andreas , Stollberg Ewelina , Hauser Joachim , Kaunzinger Ivo , Lange Klaus W.
Published: June 2021

Previous empirical evidence suggests that the engagement in social interactions across different everyday contexts occurs in a manner highly responsive to a person’s social affiliation needs. As has been shown repeatedly, social engagement (as well as disengagement) can be predicted from earlier situational need states, implying that homeostatic principles underlie a person’s social affiliative behaviors. However, little is known about the role of emotion in these regulative processes. For this reason, the present exploratory study investigated the predictive role of state feelings of loneliness in subsequent engagement in social interaction. Since loneliness is conceptually associated with both the need to reaffiliate as well as self-protecting tendencies potentially hindering engagement in social contact, the study investigated the possibility of both increases and decreases in social contacts resulting from state feelings of loneliness. Adopting an experience sampling methodology (ESM), a sample of 65 participants was recruited from a local university and was followed for 14 days. Subjects were prompted several times a day to rate their feeling states and the quantity of social interactions, using a fixed interval assessment schedule. Statistical analyses using multilevel analysis indicated that state feelings of loneliness had complex quadratic effects upon subsequent social interaction, leading to both increases and decreases in subsequent social interaction. Moreover, these effects were contingent upon previous engagement in social interaction, implying spillover effects across social contexts that are conditionally mediated by feelings of loneliness. These findings clearly imply an important, albeit complex role of state feelings of loneliness in the regulation of social affiliation, both as a predictor and a consequence of social interaction. These exploratory findings are discussed against the background of methodological and conceptual limitations, and several recommendations for future studies are made.
Immune status changing helps diagnose osteoarticular tuberculosis
Authors: Liang Tuo , Chen Jiarui , Xu GuoYong , Zhang Zide , Xue Jiang , Zeng Haopeng , Jiang Jie , Chen Tianyou , Qin Zhaojie , Li Hao , Ye Zhen , Nie Yunfeng , Liu Chong , Zhan Xinli
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study is aimed to develop a new nomogram for the clinical diagnosis of osteoarticular tuberculosis (TB).

Methods

xCell score estimation to obtained the immune cell type abundance scores. We downloaded the expression profile of GSE83456 from GEO and proceed xCell score estimation. The routine blood examinations of 326 patients were collected for further validation. We analyzed univariate and multivariate logistic regression to identified independent predicted factor for developing the nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The correlation of ESR with lymphocytes, monocytes, and ML ratio was performed and visualized in osteoarticular TB patients.

Results

Compared with the healthy control group in the dataset GSE83456, the xCell score of basophils, monocytes, neutrophils, and platelets was higher, while lymphoid was lower in the EPTB group. The clinical data showed that the cell count of monocytes were much higher, while the cell counts of lymphocytes were lower in the osteoarticular TB group. AUCs of the nomogram was 0.798 for the dataset GSE83456, and 0.737 for the clinical data. We identified the ML ratio, BMI, and ESR as the independent predictive factors for osteoarticular TB diagnosis and constructed a nomogram for the clinical diagnosis of osteoarticular TB. AUCs of this nomogram was 0.843.

Conclusions

We demonstrated a significant change between the ML ratio of the EPTB and non-TB patients. Moreover, we constructed a nomogram for the clinical diagnosis of the osteoarticular TB diagnosis, which works satisfactorily.
Validation of the Polish version of the Motivational Postures (Toward Taxes) Questionnaire
Authors: Kołodziej Sabina
Published: June 2021

This article presents a Polish adaptation of the Motivational Postures (Towards Taxes) Questionnaire (MPQ). The MPQ is based on the concept of five tax-related motivational postures (Commitment, Capitulation, Resistance, Disengagement and Game Playing) and consists of 29 items. Three studies validating the Polish version of the MPQ are presented. The first study was conducted with a translated version of the original questionnaire and aimed to verify the factorial validity of this version using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Since the factor structure revealed on Australian sample was not reproduced, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted. Study 2 used CFA to confirm the new structure of the modified version of the questionnaire evident from the Study 1 EFA, and also estimated the reliability and internal validity of the modified version. This resulted in a questionnaire consisting of 20 items and five scales (Moral Duty, Capitulation, Active Resistance, Disengagement and Pleasant Games). The third study tested the questionnaire’s construct validity. A theoretical interpretation of the scale is provided.
Association of cigarette and electronic nicotine delivery systems use with internalizing and externalizing problems among US adults: Findings from wave 3 (2015–2016) of the PATH study
Authors: Kaplan Bekir , Thrul Johannes , Cohen Joanna E.
Published: June 2021

Aims

Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) use is increasing among US adults. While existing research has demonstrated higher cigarette smoking rates among people with mental health conditions, there is sparse information on the association between ENDS use and mental health such as internalizing and externalizing problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate associations between internalizing and externalizing problems for cigarette only, ENDS only, and dual users, as well as changes in mental health among those groups.

Method

We used the U.S. Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study Wave 3 adult data. Internalizing and externalizing problems were self-reported and assessed via the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs-Short Screener; response options were dichotomized to reflect past 12 months and any lifetime problems. Self-reported changes in mental health over the past 12 months were also assessed. Participants’ tobacco use status was categorized as ENDS only use (n = 618), cigarette only use (n = 6,779), dual use (cigarettes and ENDS) (n = 681), and non-current use (n = 16,515).

Results

Lifetime and past 12 month internalizing problems were reported by 63.8% (n = 18,706) and 50.4% (n = 15,326), respectively, while lifetime and past 12 months externalizing problems were reported by 63.3% (n = 18,835) and 52.7% (n = 16,005), respectively. Six percent of participants reported worse mental health over the past 12 months. Compared to non-current use of any tobacco product, and adjusting for age, sex, race, education, and household income, those reporting ENDS use only had higher odds of ever (aOR = 1.52; 95%CI: 1.22–1.89) and past 12 months (aOR = 1.49; 95%CI: 1.22–1.84) internalizing, and externalizing problems (aOR = 1.32; 95%CI: 1.04–1.66 and aOR = 1.34; 95%CI: 1.07–1.67, respectively), and higher odds of reporting worse mental health over the past 12 months (aOR = 1.50; 95%CI: 1.05–2.12).

Conclusion

Health care providers should be aware that internalizing and externalizing problems, and worsening mental health, are more common among adults who use ENDS, cigarettes, or both of these tobacco products.
Autophagy activity in cholangiocarcinoma is associated with anatomical localization of the tumor
Authors: Lendvai Gábor , Szekerczés Tímea , Illyés Ildikó , Csengeri Milán , Schlachter Krisztina , Szabó Erzsébet , Lotz Gábor , Kiss András , Borka Katalin , Schaff Zsuzsa
Published: June 2021

The presence of autophagy has been indicated in cholangiocarcinoma (CC), which disease has poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Recently, CC has been classified by anatomical localization as intrahepatic (iCC), perihilar (pCC) and distal (dCC), showing different clinical and molecular characteristics. Thus, our aim was to compare autophagy activity in CC samples resected from different anatomical locations. Further, we investigated whether autophagy could be modulated in cell lines originated from iCC and extrahepatic CC (eCC) following the treatments with autophagy inhibitory and inducing agents. Tissue microarrays were prepared from 70 CC (28 iCC, 19 pCC and 23 dCC), 31 adjacent non-tumorous and 9 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) samples. Autophagy markers LC3, p62 and Beclin1 as well as proliferation marker Ki-67 were monitored by immunohistochemistry and were associated with patients’ survival. Modulation of autophagy was investigated in cell lines originated from iCC (HuH-28), eCC (TFK-1) and HCC (HepG2) by treating the cells with chloroquine (CQ) for inhibition and with Rapamycin, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and Sorafenib for induction of autophagy. Our results indicated an inhibited autophagy in iCC and pCC tumor tissues, whereas active autophagy seemed to occur in dCC, especially in samples displaying low Ki-67 index. Additionally, low level of Beclin1 and high level of Ki-67 were associated with poor overall survival in dCC, suggesting the prognostic role of these proteins in dCC. Beside a baseline autophagy detected in each cell line, Rapamycin and 5-FU induced autophagy in iCC and HepG2 cell lines, Sorafenib in iCC cells. A chemotherapy agent in combination with CQ decreased IC50 effectively in the cell lines where basal and/or induced autophagy were present. In conclusion, we revealed differences in the autophagy activities of CC tissues and cell lines originated from different anatomical locations, which might influence patients’ treatment. Our results also suggest a prognostic role of Beclin1 and Ki-67 in dCC.
A global database of plant services for humankind
Authors: Molina-Venegas Rafael , Rodríguez Miguel Ángel , Pardo-de-Santayana Manuel , Mabberley David J.
Published: June 2021

Humanity faces the challenge of conserving the attributes of biodiversity that may be essential to secure human wellbeing. Among all the organisms that are beneficial to humans, plants stand out as the most important providers of natural resources. Therefore, identifying plant uses is critical to preserve the beneficial potential of biodiversity and to promote basic and applied research on the relationship between plants and humans. However, much of this information is often uncritical, contradictory, of dubious value or simply not readily accessible to the great majority of scientists and policy makers. Here, we compiled a genus-level dataset of plant-use records for all accepted vascular plant taxa (13489 genera) using the information gathered in the 4th Edition of Mabberley’s plant-book, the most comprehensive global review of plant classification and their uses published to date. From 1974 to 2017 all the information was systematically gathered, evaluated, and synthesized by David Mabberley, who reviewed over 1000 botanical sources including modern Floras, monographs, periodicals, handbooks, and authoritative websites. Plant uses were arranged across 28 standard categories of use following the Economic Botany Data Collection Standard guidelines, which resulted in a binary classification of 9478 plant-use records pertaining human and animal nutrition, materials, fuels, medicine, poisons, social and environmental uses. Of all the taxa included in the dataset, 33% were assigned to at least one category of use, the most common being “ornamental” (26%), “medicine” (16%), “human food” (13%) and “timber” (8%). In addition to a readily available binary matrix for quantitative analyses, we provide a control text matrix that links the former to the description of the uses in Mabberley’s plant-book. We hope this dataset will serve to establish synergies between scientists and policy makers interested in plant-human interactions and to move towards the complete compilation and classification of the nature’s contributions to people upon which the wellbeing of future generations may depend.
Regularity detection under stress: Faster extraction of probability-based regularities
Authors: Tóth-Fáber Eszter , Janacsek Karolina , Szőllősi Ágnes , Kéri Szabolcs , Nemeth Dezso
Published: June 2021

Acute stress can crucially influence learning and memory processes. One of the key processes underlying human learning and memory is the ability of our brain to rapidly detect and extract regularities from sensory input across time and space leading to effective predictive processing. Here, we aimed to get an in-depth look into the effect of stress on the acquisition of two aspects of regularity extraction. We examined whether and how stress affects the learning (1) of probability-based regularities and (2) of serial order-based regularities in the same experimental design, and (3) the explicit access to the acquired information. Considering that the acquisition of probability-based regularities is a relatively rapid process, we primarily focused on the early phase of the task. We induced stress with the Socially Evaluated Cold Pressor Test in 27 young adults, while 26 participants were enrolled in the control group. Salivary cortisol levels and subjective ratings of affective states showed successful stress induction. After the stress induction, we measured regularity extraction with the cued Alternating Serial Reaction Time task. We found that stress promoted the extraction of probability-based regularities measured by the learning performance in the early phase of the task and did not alter the learning of serial order-based regularities. Post-block reports showed weaker explicit access to the serial order-based regularities in the stress group. Our results can contribute to a process-level understanding on how stress alters learning and memory functions related to predictive processes.
Tooth loss is associated with an increased risk of hypertension: A nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Woo Ho Geol , Chang Yoonkyung , Lee Ji Sung , Song Tae-Jin
Published: June 2021

Tooth loss is closely associated with suboptimal oral care. Suboptimal oral care can facilitate local infections. These can lead to systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, which are important pathological mechanisms of hypertension. The aim of this study was to investigate the link between tooth loss and the risk of hypertension. From the national health insurance system-health screening cohort in Korea, 19,680 participants who underwent three or more health examinations, including blood pressure measurements, between January 2003 and December 2008, without any history or diagnosis of hypertension were included in this study. Hypertension was defined as the diagnosis of hypertension (International Classification of Diseases-10 code “I10–11”) accompanied by the prescription of an antihypertensive agent or at least one health examination result of blood pressure of ≥140/90 mmHg. Kaplan-Meier survival curves with the log-rank test were used to evaluate the relationship between oral hygiene indicators and the incidence of hypertension. Cox proportional hazard models were applied to determine the association between oral hygiene indicators and the development of hypertension. During a median follow-up of 7.4 years, 1,853 patients developed hypertension. The estimated incidence of hypertension within seven years was 8.8%. Multivariable analysis confirmed a significant relationship between the number of lost teeth and hypertension (hazard ratio: 2.26; 95% confidence interval [1.24–4.10], p = 0.007, p for trend = 0.005). There was a positive association between the number of lost teeth and the risk of hypertension in a longitudinal research. In conclusion, the number of lost teeth may be associated with the risk of development of hypertension.
Can a social media intervention improve online communication about suicide? A feasibility study examining the acceptability and potential impact of the #chatsafe campaign
Authors: La Sala Louise , Teh Zoe , Lamblin Michelle , Rajaram Gowri , Rice Simon , Hill Nicole T. M. , Thorn Pinar , Krysinska Karolina , Robinson Jo
Published: June 2021

There is a need for effective and youth-friendly approaches to suicide prevention, and social media presents a unique opportunity to reach young people. Although there is some evidence to support the delivery of population-wide suicide prevention campaigns, little is known about their capacity to change behaviour, particularly among young people and in the context of social media. Even less is known about the safety and feasibility of using social media for the purpose of suicide prevention. Based on the #chatsafe guidelines, this study examines the acceptability, safety and feasibility of a co-designed social media campaign. It also examines its impact on young people’s willingness to intervene against suicide and their perceived self-efficacy, confidence and safety when communicating on social media platforms about suicide. A sample of 189 young people aged 16–25 years completed three questionnaires across a 20-week period (4 weeks pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention, and at 4-week follow up). The intervention took the form of a 12-week social media campaign delivered to participants via direct message. Participants reported finding the intervention acceptable and they also reported improvements in their willingness to intervene against suicide, and their perceived self-efficacy, confidence and safety when communicating on social media about suicide. Findings from this study present a promising picture for the acceptability and potential impact of a universal suicide prevention campaign delivered through social media, and suggest that it can be safe to utilize social media for the purpose of suicide prevention.
Hydraulic performance prediction and optimization of an engine cooling water pump using computational fluid dynamic analysis
Authors: Tan Libin , Yuan Yuejin , Zhang Man
Published: June 2021

In current research, the hydraulic performance prediction and optimization of an engine cooling water pump was conducted by computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis. Through CFD simulation, the pump head, shaft power and efficiency for the original pump at volume flow rate 25 L/min and impeller rotating speed 4231 r/min were 3.87 m, 66.7 W and 23.09% respectively. For improving hydraulic performance, an optimization study was carried out. After optimization, four potential optimized designs were put forward. The efficiency of the optimized design No.1 for engine cooling water pump was nearly 6% higher than that of the original pump model; and the head of the optimized design No.2 for engine cooling water pump was 9% higher than that of the original pump model. Under the condition of maintaining the pump head and considering comprehensive improvement effect, the optimized design No.3 was considered as the best design and selected as the test case for validating the optimum design. The hydraulic performance predictions for this optimum engine cooling water pump agreed well with experimental data at design condition with relative discrepancies of 2.9% and 5.5% for the pump head and pump efficiency, respectively. It proved that performance prediction calculation model and the automatic optimization model were effective. This research work can provide theoretical basis for the design, development and optimization of engine cooling water pump.
Comparability of thyroid-stimulating hormone immunoassays using fresh frozen human sera and external quality assessment data
Authors: Zhang Shunli , Cheng Fei , Wang Hua , Wen Jiangping , Zeng Jie , Zhang Chuanbao , Liu Wensong , Wang Ning , Jia Tingting , Wang Mo , Zhang Rui , Yue Yuhong , Xu Jing , Wang Zhanyong , Li Yilong , Chen Wenxiang , Wang Qingtao
Published: June 2021

Background

This study aimed to assess the comparability among assays using freshly frozen human sera and external quality assessment (EQA) data in China.

Methods

Twenty-nine serum samples and two commercial EQA materials, obtained from the National Center for Clinical Laboratories (NCCL), were analyzed in triplicate using eight routine TSH assays. The commutability of commercial EQA materials (NCCL materials) was evaluated in accordance with the CLSI EP30-A and IFCC bias analysis. Median values obtained for the NCCL EQA materials were used to determine the systematic and commutability-related biases among immunoassays through back-calculation. The comparability of TSH measurements from a panel of clinical samples and NCCL EQA data was determined on the basis of Passing–Bablok regression. Furthermore, human serum pools were used to perform commutable EQA.

Results

NCCL EQA materials displayed commutability among three or five of seven assay combinations according CLSI or IFCC approach, respectively. The mean of systematic bias ranged from -13.78% to 9.85% for the eight routine TSH assays. After correcting for systematic bias, averaged commutability-related biases ranged between -42.26% and 12.19%. After correction for systematic and commutability -related biases, the slopes indicating interassay relatedness ranged from 0.801 to 1.299 using individual human sera, from 0.735 to 1.254 using NCCL EQA data, and from 0.729 to 1.115 using pooled human serum EQA(the commutable EQA).

Conclusions

The harmonization of TSH measurement is challenging; hence, systematic and commutability-related biases should be determined and corrected for accurate comparisons among assays when using human individual serum and the commercial EQA materials.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN CONTINUOUS WEARABLE ACTIVITY MONITORING AND SELF-REPORTED FUNCTIONING IN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY AND NURSING HOME RESIDENTS
Authors: MERILAHTI J. , KORHONEN I.
Published: June 2021

Background: Physical functioning is a key factor in independent living, and its preclinical state assessment and monitoring during the subject’s normal life would be beneficial. Objectives: The aim of the study is to analyse associations between ambulatory measured physical activity behaviour and sleep patterns (wrist actigraphy) and self-reported difficulties in performing activities of daily living. Participants, setting and design:36 residents in assisted living facilities and nursing homes (average age=80.4±9.0 years) without dementia in free living conditions participated. Actigraphic monitoring is integrated with the facilities’ social alarm system. Measurements: Indices on activity level, activity rhythm, sleep pattern and external stimuli response of sleep-wake behaviours were extracted from the actigraph data and correlated (Spearman rank-order correlation) with activities of daily living measures. Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons was applied. Results: Activity level (ρ=-0.49, p<0.05) and night-time activity variance (ρ=-0.69, p<0.01) had correlation with the activities of daily living scores. The similarity of subject-wise activity pattern to facility common activities had a trend with activities of daily living (ρ=-0.44, p<0.1). In longitudinal case analysis, sleep and activity patterns were found to be associated with local weather variables. Conclusions: Activity patterns as measured by actigraphy may provide objective information on older people’s behaviour related to functioning state and its changes in nursing home and assisted living facility settings. However, variance between individuals was large in this dataset which decreases the reliability of the results. Furthermore, external stimuli such as weather and facility-related activities can affect subjects’ activity and sleep behaviour and should be considered in the related studies as well.
FRAILTY IS A GERIATRIC SYNDROME CHARACTERIZED BY MULTIPLE IMPAIRMENTS: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH IS NEEDED
Authors: CHEN L.-K. , HWANG A.-C. , LIU L.-K. , LEE W.-J. , PENG L.-N.
Published: June 2021

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of frailty and the associated multimorbidity and functional impairments among community-dwelling middle-aged and elderly people in Taiwan. Design: a cross-sectional study. Setting: communities in I-Lan County of Taiwan. Participants: 1839 community-dwelling people aged 50 years and older. Intervention: None. Measurements: Frailty defined by Fried’s criteria, Charlson’s comorbidity index (CCI), Functional Autonomy Measurement System (SMAF), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), Mini-Nutrition Assessment (MNA), Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Short Form-12 quality of life questionnaire. Results: Overall, 1839 subjects (mean age: 63.9±9.3 years, 47.5% males) participated in this study and men were more likely to have higher educational level, more smoking and alcohol drinking habit. The prevalence of frailty was 6.8% in this study, while pre-frailty was 40.5% and 53.7% of all participants were robust. Compared to subjects with different frailty status, age, education year, alcohol drinking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, CCI, walking speed, handgrip strength, score of SMAF, CES-D, MNA, MMSE, quality of life were significantly different between groups (P all< 0.05). Older age, poorer physical function, poorer cognitive function, poorer nutritional status, more depressive symptoms, higher CCI and poorer quality of life were all independently associated with frailty. Conclusions: Frailty was not simply a geriatric syndrome, but the combination of multiple geriatric syndromes. Further study is needed to evaluate the clinical benefits of intervention programs for community-dwelling middle-aged and older people to reverse frailty and its associated functional impairments.
EFFECT OF LOW-DOSE RAPAMYCIN ON SENESCENCE MARKERS AND PHYSICAL FUNCTIONING IN OLDER ADULTS WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE: RESULTS OF A PILOT STUDY
Authors: SINGH M. , JENSEN M.D. , LERMAN A. , KUSHWAHA S. , RIHAL C.S. , GERSH B.J. , BEHFAR A. , TCHKONIA T. , THOMAS R.J. , LENNON R.J. , KEENAN L.R. , MOORE A.G. , KIRKLAND J.L.
Published: June 2021

Rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor affects senescence through suppression of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). We studied the safety and feasibility of low-dose rapamycin and its effect on SASP and frailty in elderly undergoing cardiac rehabilitation (CR). 13 patients; 6 (0.5mg), 6 (1.0mg), and 1 patient received 2mg oral rapamycin (serum rapamycin <6ng/ml) daily for 12 weeks. Median age was 73.9±7.5 years and 12 were men. Serum interleukin-6 decreased (2.6 vs 4.4 pg/ml) and MMP-3 (26 vs 23.5 ng/ml) increased. Adipose tissue expression of mRNAs (arbitrary units) for MCP-1 (3585 vs 2020, p=0.06), PPAR-γ (1257 vs 1166), PAI-1 (823 vs 338, p=0.08) increased, whereas interleukin-8 (163 vs 312), TNF-α (75 vs 94) and p16 (129 vs 169) decreased. Cellular senescence-associated beta galactosidase activity (2.2% vs 3.6%, p=0.18) tended to decrease. We observed some correlation between some senescence markers and physical performance but no improvement in frailty with rapamycin was noted. (NCT01649960).
A Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Quality Control System Incorporated With Deep Learning Improved Endoscopist Performance in a Pretest and Post-Test Trial
Authors: Yao Liwen , Liu Jun , Wu Lianlian , Zhang Lihui , Hu Xiao , Liu Jinzhu , Lu Zihua , Gong Dexin , An Ping , Zhang Jun , Hu Guiying , Chen Di , Luo Renquan , Hu Shan , Yang Yanning , Yu Honggang
Published: June 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Gastrointestinal endoscopic quality is operator-dependent. To ensure the endoscopy quality, we constructed an endoscopic audit and feedback system named Endo.Adm and evaluated its effect in a form of pretest and posttest trial.

METHODS:

Endo.Adm system was developed using Python and Deep Convolutional Neural Ne2rk models. Sixteen endoscopists were recruited from Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and were randomly assigned to undergo feedback of Endo.Adm or not (8 for the feedback group and 8 for the control group). The feedback group received weekly quality report cards which were automatically generated by Endo.Adm. We then compared the adenoma detection rate (ADR) and gastric precancerous conditions detection rate between baseline and postintervention phase for endoscopists in each group to evaluate the impact of Endo.Adm feedback. In total, 1,191 colonoscopies and 3,515 gastroscopies were included for analysis.

RESULTS:

ADR was increased after Endo.Adm feedback (10.8%–20.3%, P < 0.01, <odds ratio (OR) 2.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.317–3.447), and endoscopists' ADR without feedback remained nearly unchanged (10.8%–10.9%, P = 0.57, OR 1.086, 95% CI 0.814–1.447). Gastric precancerous conditions detection rate increased in the feedback group (3%–7%, P < 0.01, OR 1.866, 95% CI 1.399–2.489) while no improvement was observed in the control group (3.9%–3.5%, P = 0.489, OR 0.856, 95% CI 0.550–1.332).

DISCUSSION:

Endo.Adm feedback contributed to multifaceted gastrointestinal endoscopic quality improvement. This system is practical to implement and may serve as a standard model for quality improvement in routine work (http://www.chictr.org.cn/, ChiCTR1900024153).
On singular quasilinear elliptic equations with data measures
Authors: Alaa Nour Eddine , Aqel Fatima , Taourirte Laila
Published: June 2021

The aim of this work is to study a quasilinear elliptic equation with singular nonlinearity and data measure. Existence and non-existence results are obtained under necessary or sufficient conditions on the data, where the main ingredient is the isoperimetric inequality. Finally, uniqueness results for weak solutions are given.
Effects of Flywheel Training With Eccentric Overload on Standing Balance, Mobility, Physical Function, Muscle Thickness, and Muscle Quality in Older Adults
Authors: Hill Mathew W. , Roberts Matthew , Price Michael J. , Kay Anthony D.
Published: June 2021

Hill, MW, Roberts, M, Price, MJ, and Kay, AD. Effects of flywheel training with eccentric overload on standing balance, mobility, physical function, muscle thickness, and muscle quality in older adults. J Strength Cond Res 36(11): 3190–3199, 2022—This study investigated the effects of a 6-week eccentric overload flywheel training program on vastus lateralis (VL) and gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle thickness and muscle quality (echo intensity), mobility (Timed Up and Go [TUG]), physical function (sit-to-stand), and balance (postural sway) performance. Nineteen subjects were assigned to either a flywheel training group (n = 11, age = 66.4 ± 5.2 years) or a control group (n = 8, age = 65.9 ± 3.8 years). The flywheel group underwent twice weekly squat and calf raise exercises for 6 weeks with outcome measures assessed before and after training or a time-matched control period. Throughout the training, subjects were instructed to contract as fast as possible with maximal effort during the concentric phase and to maximally resist the pull during the eccentric phase. The alpha value was a priori set at p < 0.05. Statistically significant (p < 0.05) mean (SD) increases in right and left VL (7.6–9.6 ± 7.7–9.8%) and GM (8.6–8.7 ± 6.4–11.5%) muscle thickness and a reduction in VL (10.2–11.3 ± 5.9–7.9%) and GM (11.7–11.9 ± 5.6–9.6%) echo intensity were accompanied by faster TUG time (13.7 ± 7.0%) improved sit-to-stand performance (17.8–23.5 ± 7.6 – 13.4%) and reduced postural sway (29.7–42.3 ± 13.2–24.2%) after 6 weeks of flywheel training. There were no differences in any outcome measures between the treatment and control group at baseline (p > 0.05). Overall, we observed substantial gains in muscle thickness and muscle quality, in addition to enhanced physical function, balance, and mobility performance among older adults after flywheel training, which may have important implications for preserving the functional capacity of older adults.