bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oceanografia
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto Oceanográfico, Brito Maithê Kapor de , Todam Agatha ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto Oceanográfico, Llonch Brenda Gulfier Sanchez ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto Oceanográfico, Silva Giovanna Reis ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto Oceanográfico, Panho João Pedro Alonso ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto Oceanográfico, Moreira Priscila Saviolo ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto Oceanográfico, Signori Camila Negrão ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto Oceanográfico
Published: August 2023

Este livro é um produto do projeto EAMar, produzido no ano de 2021 por alunos de graduação do curso de Bacharelado em Oceanografia, do Instituto Oceanográfico da Universidade de São Paulo e tem, por finalidade, oferecer material didático como suporte para professores e alunos participantes do projeto EAMar. É o segundo livro da série "Educação Ambiental Marinha", e o conteúdo, aqui presente, traz uma introdução ao estudo do oceano e à ciência oceanográfica e tem, como principal objetivo, disseminar os princípios da cultura oceânica, contribuindo, dessa forma, com a Década do Oceano.
Prognostic Value of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With a Working Diagnosis of MINOCA—An Outcome Study With up to 10 Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Konst Regina E. , Parker Michele , Bhatti Lubna , Kaolawanich Yodying , Alenezi Fawaz , Elias-Smale Suzette E. , Nijveldt Robin , Kim Raymond J.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Patients with a working diagnosis of myocardial infarction with unobstructed coronary arteries (MINOCA) represent a heterogeneous cohort. The prognosis could vary substantially depending on the underlying cause. Although cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is considered a key diagnostic tool in these patients, there are limited data linking the CMR diagnosis with the outcome.

METHODS:

This study is a prospective outcomes registry of consecutive patients presenting with a working diagnosis of MINOCA who were clinically referred for CMR at an academic hospital from October 2003 to February 2020. We assessed the relationships between the prespecified CMR diagnoses of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), myocarditis, nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM), normal CMR study, and major adverse cardiac events (MACEs).

RESULTS:

Of 252 patients, the CMR diagnosis was AMI in 63 (25%), myocarditis in 33 (13%), NICM in 111 (44%), normal CMR in 37 (15%), and other diagnoses in 8 (3%). A specific nonischemic cause was diagnosed allowing true MINOCA to be ruled-out in 57% of the cohort. During up to 10 years of follow-up (1595 patient-years), MACE occurred in 84 patients (33%), which included 64 deaths (25%). The unadjusted cumulative 10-year rate of MACE was 47% in AMI, 24% in myocarditis, 50% in NICM, and 3.5% in patients with a normal CMR (Log-rank
P
<0.001). The CMR diagnosis provided incremental prognostic value over clinical factors including age, gender, coronary artery disease risk factors, presentation with ST-elevation, and peak troponin (incremental χ² 17.9,
P
<0.001); and patients with diagnoses of AMI, myocarditis, and NICM had worse MACE-free survival than patients with a normal CMR.

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients with a working diagnosis of MINOCA, CMR allows ruling-out true MINOCA in over half of the patients. CMR diagnoses of AMI, myocarditis, and NICM are associated with worse MACE-free survival, whereas a normal CMR study portends a benign prognosis.
Jeremiah’s Temple Sermon as a Traumascape: Reading Jeremiah 7:1–8:3 Through the Metaphor of the Phantasmagoria
Authors: Axtens Joshua
Published: August 2023

This interdisciplinary study integrates spatial theory and trauma studies to explore Jeremiah’s Temple Sermon (7:1–8:3) as a literary landscape in the context of cultural trauma. This study reads the Temple Sermon as a traumascape: a literary landscape constructed to shape and contain trauma stemming from Babylon’s subjugation of Judah. This reading proceeds in four parts structured around the metaphor of the phantasmagoria: the first analyses how the Sermon navigates the politics of memory to legitimise its interpretation of Judah’s past; the second explores how the Sermon constructs Judah’s past as a geography of national failure culminating in divine punishment; the third examines the rhetorical techniques which position the reading community to affirm yhwh’s rejection of their past selves. The final part integrates the findings of the prior three to read the Sermon as a traumascape wherein the tension between remembering and repressing trauma is navigated in the act of reading.
Combat Furlough and the Characterization of Uriah the Hittite
Authors: Berman Joshua
Published: August 2023

In the narrative of David and Bathsheba (2 Sam 11) Uriah the Hittite is encouraged by the king to go home to his wife yet refuses to do so. For some, Uriah’s refusal is born out of piety and idealism, and he is unsuspecting of what has transpired between the king and his wife, Bathsheba. For others Uriah has caught wind of what has happened and realizes that David has summoned him precisely so that he should visit home, and cover David’s malfeasance. A review of the evidence finds both approaches wanting. This study turns to the clinical literature concerning the challenges of homecoming from the battlefield and the emotional minefield that is combat furlough between two battlefront deployments, offering a deeper understanding of the figure of Uriah the Hittite and resolving many of the questions raised by Uriah’s behavior in the narrative of 2 Sam 11.
Creating a distribution model of three crayfish species of the genus Faxonius (Decapoda, Cambaridae) in Michigan streams using publicly accessible data
Authors: Homan Robert C. , Baker Kathleen M. , Roth Brian M. , Smith Kelley R.
Published: August 2023

This research seeks to create a predictive model of habitat suitability for use in determining waterbodies vulnerable to introduced species within the state of Michigan. Three members of the genus Faxonius (Decapoda, Cambaridae) were selected as test taxa for the model due to several species’ propensity for significantly altering the ecosystems they inhabit in Michigan and elsewhere. Michigan State University and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) conducted extensive field surveys of crayfish species assemblages across 461 stream sites from 2014-2016. This project compares these field data to data from publicly available national datasets with the purpose of revealing ecosystems that are vulnerable to population expansion. We identify patterns in Faxonius habitat at local (100 acres) and landscape (1000 acres) scales by associating crayfish occurrences throughout Michigan with variables characterizing landscape conditions thought to be important factors affecting their spread, growth, and survival. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model using variables from Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO) and National Land Cover Database (NLCD) successfully identified stream sites and watersheds in Michigan vulnerable to range expansion by Faxonius rusticus (Girard, 1852), Faxonius propinquus (Girard, 1852), and/or Faxonius virilis (Hagen, 1870). We found several habitat variables that influence our predictions. The most important variable describing F. rusticus presence was local (100-acre) scale Open Water land cover class, whereas for F. propinquus, the high-intensity developed land cover class at the local scale was the most important, while it was the shrubland land cover class at the local scale for F. virilis. This research demonstrates a powerful method to identify locations using remote sensing data that can be prioritized for conservation efforts that are threatened by invasive crayfish species.
Multi-model approach for growth analysis of Evibacus princeps Smith, 1869 (Decapoda, Scyllaridae) in the Gulf of California
Authors: León-Valdez Alma L. , Aragón-Noriega E. Alberto , Félix-Ortiz José A. , Arzola-González Juan F. , Payan-Alejo Jorge , Valenzuela-Quiñonez Wenceslao , Valdez-Camacho Alejo A.
Published: August 2023

In Mexico, the spiny lobster fishery is well established but this is not the case with the slipper lobster fishery. For a sustainable fishery, many biological traits must be known, one of which is growth. The objective of the present study was to probe the multi-model approach to identify the curve that best describes the growth of Evibacus princeps from the Gulf of California. Specimens were collected aboard commercial trawlers during the industrial shrimp fishing season (October 2021-March 2022) at depths ranging from 10 to 55 m. Five versions of the Schnute model (including the Von Bertalanffy model) were applied and the best model was selected using the Bayesian information criterion. The estimation of an average model was performed because no model obtained 90% of the evidence. E. princeps from the Gulf of California exhibit an indeterminate growth pattern.
Potential of cavalcade, Centrosema pascuorum, leaves for controlling Meloidogyne javanica and quantification of active phytochemicals
Authors: Beesa Natthidech , Chinnasri Buncha , Sasnarukkit Anongnuch , Dethoup Tida , Jindapunnapat Kansiree , Kiriga Agnes W. , Saikai Kanan , Haukeland Solveig , Coyne Danny
Published: August 2023

The legume cavalcade, Centrosema pascuorum, is used extensively as a cover crop and as a component of conservation agriculture systems. It is also an attractive rotation or cover crop for the management of root-knot nematodes (RKN; Meloidogyne spp.) as it is a non-host. RKN are persistent pests that are well known to be difficult to control. However, the mechanisms governing the non-host status of cavalcade is unknown. The current study established that cavalcade leaves are toxic to RKN as either aqueous extracts or soil amendments. Bioassays conducted using Meloidogyne javanica showed that a 90% concentration of aqueous extract derived from 1-month-old cavalcade leaves (89 mg crude extract ml−1) suppressed nematode hatch (82.9%) and killed infective second-stage juveniles of M. javanica (85.3%). Soil amendments with 1% (w/w) of 1-month-old cavalcade leaves (0.99 mg crude extract g−1 soil) also provided effective control of M. javanica in the glasshouse on okra. One-month-old leaves appeared more effective than 2- or 3-month-old leaves. The soil amendments had no adverse phytotoxic effect on okra seed germination. Our study demonstrates the potential for using cavalcade leaves or extracts to manage RKN. This may be due to the nematicidal activity of the various compounds in the leaves, such as flavonoids, phenols and terpenoids, which should be further assessed.
Review of the genus Macrobathra Meyrick, 1883 (Lepidoptera: Cosmopterigidae) in China
Authors: ZHANG DI , LI HOUHUN
Published: August 2023

Sixteen species of the genus Macrobathra Meyrick, 1883 are treated in this study. Nine species are described as new to science: M. trigonilamella Li, sp. nov., M. reticulatistria Li, sp. nov., M. micacea Li, sp. nov., M. solidilatata Li, sp. nov., M. afflata Li, sp. nov., M. aequidistans Li, sp. nov., M. baculiformis Li, sp. nov., M. bipunciata Li, sp. nov., and M. terniprocessa Li, sp. nov. One species, M. petalitis Meyrick, 1915, is newly recorded for China. The female of M. petalitis Meyrick, 1915 and the male of M. myrocoma Meyrick, 1914 are described for the first time. Images of adults and genitalia are provided, along with a key to the known Chinese species.
New species of Monomitopus (Ophidiidae) from Hawaiʻi, with the description of a larval coiling behavior
Authors: GIRARD MATTHEW G. , CARTER H. JACQUE , JOHNSON G. DAVID
Published: August 2023

In 1985, Carter and Cohen noted that there are several yet-to-be described species of Monomitopus (Ophidiidae), including one from Hawaiʻi. Recently, blackwater divers collected a larval fish off Kona, Hawaiʻi, similar to the previously described larvae of M. kumae, but DNA sequence data from the larva does not match any of the six previously sequenced species within the genus. Within the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History Ichthyology Collection, we find a single unidentified adult specimen of Monomitopus collected North of Maui, Hawaiʻi in 1972 whose fin-ray and vertebral/myomere counts overlap those of the larval specimen. We describe this new Hawaiian species of Monomitopus based on larval and adult characters. Additionally, blackwater photographs of several species of Monomitopus show the larvae coiled into a tight ball, a novel behavior to be observed in cusk-eels. We describe this behavior, highlighting the importance of blackwater photography in advancing our understanding of marine larval fish biology.
Contribution to the knowledge of Chinese Gryllacrididae (Orthoptera) XVII: New reports on Chinese Homogryllacris
Authors: ZHANG QIANWEN , LIU MINGYU , BIAN XUN
Published: August 2023

Based on new collections, we described one new species from Yunnan Province, i.e. Homogryllacris xishanensis sp. nov. (Chinese name: 西山同蟋螽). Meanwhile, we first describe and illustrate the male sex of Homogryllacris biloba (Bey-Bienko, 1957). After the study, these species of Homogryllacris with reduced wings could be formed into one morphological group for classical taxonomy, but they with other species of the genus (with long wings) actually lost and regained wings during evolution.
New feather mites of the genus Neodectes (Acariformes: Proctophyllodidae) from honeyeaters (Passeriformes: Meliphagidae) in Australia
Authors: MIRONOV SERGEY V. , PROCTOR HEATHER C.
Published: August 2023

Five new species of the genus Neodectes Park and Atyeo, 1971 (Proctophyllodidae: Pterodectinae) are described from honeyeaters (Passeriformes: Meliphagidae) in Australia: Neodectes cissomelae sp. n. from Cissomela pectoralis (Gould) (type host) and Melithreptus gularis laetior Gould; N. hallidayi sp. n. from Anthochaera carunculata (Shaw) (type host) and A. chrysoptera (Latham); N. manorinae sp. n. from Manorina melanocephala (Latham); N. ophioglossus sp. n. from Conopophila rufogularis (Gould) (type host) and Lichmera indistincta (Vigors and Horsfield); and N. walteri sp. n. from Anthochaera phrygia (Shaw). A key to species and a world checklist to Neodectes species are provided for the first time. A new combination, Neodectes dicranochaetus (Gaud, 1968) comb. n., is proposed for Proterothrix dicranochaeta Gaud, 1968, which is transferred herein to the genus Neodectes from Proterothrix Gaud, 1968 (Proctophyllodidae).
A new species of Perinereis Kinberg, 1865 (Annelida: Nereididae) and invalidation of two congeners from Western India
Authors: PRAJAPAT VAISHALI , VILLALOBOS-GUERRERO TULIO F. , VACHHRAJANI KAURESH D.
Published: August 2023

A new Perinereis Group 2 species is described from the hard clayey mudflats of Gulf of Khambhat, Gujarat, India. Perinereis khambhatiensis sp. n. is characterized by having two bar-shaped paragnaths on area VI of proboscis and dorsal ligules not greatly expanded in posterior parapodia. The species can mainly be distinguished from the morphologically similar species P. aibuhitensis (Grube, 1878), P. singaporiensis (Grube, 1878), and P. vancaurica (Ehlers, 1868) by the ridge pattern of areas VI-V-VI, the type of bars on area VI, and the number and distribution of paragnaths chiefly on areas III, IV, and VII–VIII. Two Indian Perinereis varieties originally described from near Gujarat, P. vancaurica var. indica (Bhatt & Bal, 1966) and P. nuntia var. bombayensis (Bhatt & Bal, 1966) are regarded as invalid. Comments on the diagnostic features of species belonging to Perinereis Group 2 are provided and included in a comparative synoptic table to distinguish species. An identification key of species of Perinereis in the ‘aibuhitensis’ group is also provided.
The lophogastrids (Crustacea: Peracarida: Lophogastrida) of Indonesia and its adjacent waters. An updated checklist
Authors: YOLANDA ROFIZA , LHEKNIM VACHIRA , B.A.R AZMAN , PRICE W. WAYNE , HENDRICKX MICHEL E.
Published: August 2023

The zoogeographic distribution of lophogastrid species (Crustacea: Peracarida: Lophogastrida) occurring in the Indonesian waters is presented. For each species, data on general distribution, bathymetric ranges, habitat and localities reported on published data are provided. A total of 20 lophogastrid species belonging to three families and seven genera occur in Indonesian waters (about 38% of all known lophogastrids species worldwide), a number greater than other areas of Southeast Asia. Also, based on current information, the number of species or species richness is greater than other regions, such as Madagascar, North Pacific off Japan, Mediterranean, Canary Island, northern mid-Atlantic ridge, Iberian Peninsula, Mexico, and Angola Basin (SE Atlantic). Most of the Indonesian species are distributed worldwide, but one species, Lophogaster inermis appears to be endemic to Indonesia. Previous listings of Paralophogaster intermedius occurring in Southeast Asian waters is not verified in any collections, and has therefore been removed from our updated list.
On the taxonomy of Philyra sagittifera (Alcock, 1896) and P. concinnus Ghani & Tirmizi, 1995 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Leucosiidae), with description of a new genus from the Indian Ocean
Authors: PATEL KRUPAL , NADERLOO REZA , TRIVEDI JIGNESHKUMAR , MITRA SANTANU
Published: August 2023

The identity of the leucosiid crabs, Philyra sagittifera (Alcock, 1896) and P. concinnus Ghani & Tirmizi, 1995, originally described from Pakistan is clarified. Redescription of the lectotype male of Philyra sagittifera (Alcock, 1896) and fresh material of both species collected from the Persian Gulf revealed that these two species show significant morphological differences from the generic characters of Philyra sensu stricto and other allied genera in possessing three broad tuberculated ridges united to form a "broad-arrow" pointing forwards on the carapace, and male G1 with apical process curved, with or without a spatulate tip. Therefore, a new genus Tirmilyra n. gen. is established to accommodate both species.
Winter Precipitation Type from Microwave Radiometers in New York State Mesonet Profiler Network
Authors: Shrestha Bhupal , Wang J. , Brotzge J. A. , Bain Nathan
Published: August 2023

Winter precipitation is a major cause of vehicle accidents, aviation delays, school and business closures, injuries through slips and falls, and adverse health impacts such as cardiac arrests and deaths. However, an improved ability to monitor and predict winter precipitation type (p-type) could significantly reduce and mitigate these adverse impacts. This study presents and evaluates a modified parcel thickness method to derive p-type from a microwave radiometer (MWR) every 10 min. The MWR-retrieved p-types from six selected New York State Mesonet (NYSM) profiler network sites are validated against reference observations from the Meteorological Phenomena Idenfication Near the Ground (mPING) and Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS). Between the two reference observations, the mPING reports are biased toward snow (SN) and sleet (SLT) and away from rain (RA) and freezing rain (FZR) compared to the ASOS. The MWR has the best Pierce skill score (PSS) for RA, followed by SN, FZR, and SLT, and consistently overforecasts FZR and underforecasts SLT compared to both mPING and ASOS. The MWR p-type retrievals are generally found to be in better agreement with ASOS than mPING. Continuous thermodynamic profiles and p-type estimates from across all 17 profiler sites are available at http://www.nysmesonet.org/networks/profiler. Having such thermodynamic information from across the state can be a valuable resource, with a significant advantage over twice daily NWS radiosondes, for monitoring and tracking hazardous winter weather in real time, for accurate forecasting, and for issuing timely warnings and alerts.

Significance Statement

Accurate prediction and monitoring of winter precipitation type (p-type) is important due to the adverse economic and health impacts posed by winter weather. However, complexities in understanding and modeling the processes that govern p-type and inadequate observational data limit accurate monitoring and prediction. To address these issues, a ground-based microwave radiometer (MWR) that provides thermodynamic profiles up to 10 km every 2 min, as deployed at 17 sites in the New York State Mesonet (NYSM) profiler network, can be a valuable tool. This study evaluates the accuracy of p-type estimates based on the parcel thickness method from the MWR data and its implementation to the NYSM real-time operations.
How Can Tariff Elimination and Trade Facilitation Affect East African Economies?
Authors: Bakouan Pousseni , Diarra Mahamadou , Ouedraogo Idrissa M.
Published: August 2023

The article assesses the potential economic implications of tariff elimination and trade facilitation (TF) in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement for East Africa. Using the most recent GTAP database and computable general equilibrium model, the article provides additional evidence on the socio-economic benefits of the ongoing trade integration process. The results show that the elimination of tariffs would improve economic dynamism in most sectors of activity and household consumption. However, the elimination of tariffs alone would not be sufficient to achieve a significant level of trade integration. From a policy perspective, although a gradual implementation of tariff elimination is more beneficial for the zone, the results highlight the relevance of combining tariff elimination with complementary TF reforms. These reforms amplify the socio-economic gain from the AfCFTA.

JEL Codes: F13, F14, F15, E23, C68
Study on Marriage Pairings and Women’s Fertility Intentions in China
Authors: Tian Wenze , He Yiming , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: August 2023

The effect of marriage pairings on fertility intentions is specific and has attracted increasing scholarly attention in recent years. Using data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this study explored the impact of couples’ educational pairings, age pairings, and income pairings on women’s desired number of children and their preference for sons. The results showed that marital-educational pairing had a greater effect on women’s fertility intentions than age and income pairing. The effect of marital pairing on women’s fertility intentions is also influenced by women’s age and urban–rural differences. The study helps to understand the changes in women’s fertility intentions and the factors influencing them after the fertility policy transition in China and inspires scholars to pay more attention to the interaction process between couples in the study of fertility intentions.
Outcome-based Education as Janus-faced Travelling Theory: Appeal for a Broader Research Agenda
Authors: Sarkar Debarun , Kurup Anitha
Published: August 2023

A shift towards outcome-based education (OBE) is visible in an emerging set of educational policy and regulatory documents and higher education institutions across the country. The article argues for OBE to be approached through the lens of ‘travelling theory’ to foreground the process of translation across various scales, from the transfer of policy knowledge to negotiations in the classroom. By doing so, the article highlights the process of translation which remains at the core of OBE, as it tends to mobilize both managerial and behaviourist approaches along with a constructivist and constructionist approach. The popularity and acceptance of OBE and the disagreements surrounding it are made possible due to this Janus-faced nature of OBE. It argues for acknowledging the mobilization of multiple, contradictory and divergent epistemological approaches as integral to the process of translation of OBE.
Routine FEV1measurement is essential in diagnosis and monitoring of childhood asthma: myth or maxim?
Authors: Onisor Maria Octavia , Turner Steve
Published: August 2023

Childhood asthma is a common condition in children. This review describes the evidence from seven asthma guidelines for using spirometry in the diagnosis and monitoring of childhood asthma. All guidelines recommend spirometry as the primary test to be performed for diagnosing asthma in children aged >5 years. Spirometry is often normal in children with asthma. Guidelines are not consistent with respect to whether forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) or FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) should be measured, or their threshold for “abnormal” spirometry, and we describe the sensitivity and specificity for these different cut-offs. The role of spirometry in monitoring asthma is less clear in the guidelines, and some do not suggest spirometry should be done. There is no consensus on what spirometric measurement should be used, how often it should be measured and what is a minimum clinically important change in spirometry. The role of spirometry in diagnosing asthma is more clearly established when compared to its role in monitoring asthma. The potential of spirometry to aid decision making for asthma diagnosis and monitoring in children remains to be fully evaluated.

Educational aims

To provide knowledge of the commonly used guidelines for asthma diagnosis and management.

To give insight into the opportunities and challenges in using spirometry to diagnose and monitor asthma in children.

To provide an understanding of the precision of spirometry for diagnosing asthma.
Greenness exposure: beneficial but multidimensional
Authors: Johannessen Ane , Xu Shanshan , Abbah Achenyo Peace , Janson Christer
Published: August 2023

Many studies have shown that greenness has beneficial health effects, particularly on psychological and cardiovascular outcomes. In this narrative review, we provide a synthesis of knowledge regarding greenness exposure and respiratory health. The following outcomes were reviewed: respiratory mortality, lung cancer mortality, lung cancer incidence, respiratory hospitalisations, lung function, COPD, and asthma. We identified 174 articles through a literature search in PubMed, of which 42 were eligible for inclusion in this review. The most common marker for greenness exposure was the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), which was used in 29 out of 42 papers. Other markers used were tree canopy cover, landcover/land-use, plant diversity, density of tall trees and subjectively perceived greenness. We found beneficial effects of greenness in most studies regarding respiratory mortality, lung cancer incidence, respiratory hospitalisations and lung function. For lung cancer mortality, asthma and COPD, the effects of greenness were less clear cut. While many aspects of greenness are beneficial, some aspects may be harmful, and greenness may have different health effects in different population subgroups. Future studies of greenness and respiratory diseases should focus on asthma and COPD, on effects in different population subgroups and on disentangling the health effects of the various greenness dimensions.
Trajectory of blood pressure after initiating anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide treatment of migraine: a target trial emulation from the veterans health administration
Authors: Wang Kaicheng , Fenton Brenda T. , Dao Vinh X. , Guirguis Alexander B. , Anthony Sarah E. , Skanderson Melissa , Sico Jason J.
Published: August 2023

Background

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is involved in migraine pathophysiology and blood pressure regulation. Although clinical trials have established the cardio-cerebrovascular safety profile of anti-CGRP treatment, limited high-quality real-world evidence exists on its long-term effects on blood pressure (BP). To address this gap, we examined the safety of anti-CGRP treatment on BP in patients with migraine headache in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Methods

We emulated a target trial of patients who initiated anti-CGRP treatment or topiramate for migraine prevention between May 17th, 2018 and February 28th, 2023. We calculated stabilized inverse probability weights to balance between groups and then used weighted linear mixed-effect models to estimate the systolic and diastolic BP changes over the study period. For patients without hypertension at baseline, we estimated the cumulative incidence of hypertension using Kaplan–Meier curve. We also used weight mixed-effect Poisson model to estimate the number of antihypertension medications for patients with hypertension at baseline.

Results

This analysis included 69,589 patients and 554,437 blood pressure readings. of these, 18,880 patients received anti-CGRP treatment, and they were more likely to be women, have a chronic migraine diagnosis and higher healthcare utilization than those received topiramate. Among patients without hypertension at baseline, we found no significant differences in systolic BP changes over the four-year follow-up between anti-CGRP (slope [standard error, SE] = 0.48[0.06]) and topiramate treated patients (slope[SE] = 0.39[0.04]). The incidence of hypertension was similar for anti-CGRP and topiramate group (4.4 vs 4.3 per 100 person-years). Among patients with hypertension at baseline who initiated anti-CGRP treatment, we found a small but persistent effect on exacerbating hypertension during the first four years of treatment, as evidenced by a significant annual 3.7% increase in the number of antihypertensive medications prescribed (RR = 1.037, 95%CI 1.025–1.048).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that anti-CGRP treatment is safe regarding blood pressure in patients without hypertension. However, for those with baseline hypertension, anti-CGRP treatment resulted in a small but persistent increase in the number of antihypertensives, indicating an exacerbation of hypertension. Future studies are needed to evaluate the cardio-cerebrovascular safety of anti-CGRP treatment beyond the first four years.
Astrocyte senescence-like response related to peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain
Authors: Du Jingyi , Cheng Nan , Deng Yifan , Xiang Ping , Liang Jianfen , Zhang Zhenye , Hei Ziqing , Li Xiang
Published: August 2023

Background

Peripheral nerve damage causes neuroinflammation, which plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining neuropathic pain (NeP). The mechanisms contributing to neuroinflammation remain poorly elucidated, and pharmacological strategies for NeP are limited. Thus, in this study, we planned to explore the possible link between astrocyte senescence and NeP disorders following chronic sciatic nerve injury.

Methods

An NeP animal model was established by inducing chronic constrictive injury (CCI) to the sciatic nerve in adult rats. A senolytic drug combination of dasatinib and quercetin was gavaged daily from the first postoperative day until the end of the study. Paw mechanical withdrawal threshold (PMWT) and paw thermal withdrawal latency (PTWL) were evaluated to assess behaviors in response to pain in the experimental rats. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining, western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence were applied to examine the levels of proinflammatory factors and severity of the senescence-like response in the spinal cord. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was administered to induce senescence of spinal astrocytes in primary cultures in vitro, to explore the potential impacts of senescence on the secretion of proinflammatory factors. Furthermore, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was conducted to identify senescence-related molecular responses in spinal astrocytes under neuropathic pain.

Results

Following sciatic nerve CCI, rats exhibited reduced PMWT and PTWL, increased levels of spinal proinflammatory factors, and an enhanced degree of senescence in spinal astrocytes. Treatment with dasatinib and quercetin effectively attenuated spinal neuroinflammation and mitigated the hypersensitivities of the rats subjected to sciatic nerve CCI. Mechanistically, the dasatinib-quercetin combination reversed senescence in LPS-stimulated primary cultured astrocytes and decreased the levels of proinflammatory factors. The scRNA-seq data revealed four potential senescence-related genes in the spinal astrocyte population, and the expression of clusterin (CLU) protein was validated via in vitro experiments.

Conclusion

The findings indicate the potential role of astrocyte senescence in neuroinflammation following peripheral nerve injury, and suggest that targeting CLU activation in astrocytes might provide a novel therapeutic strategy to treat NeP.

Graphical abstract
Geographical variation in functional traits of leaves of Caryopteris mongholica and the role of climate
Authors: Yu Xiao , Ji Ruoxuan , Li Mingming , Xia Xinli , Yin Weilun , Liu Chao
Published: August 2023

Background

Quantifying intra-specific variation in leaf functional traits along environmental gradients is important for understanding species' responses to climate change. In this study, we assessed the degree of among and within populations variation in leaf functional traits and explored leaf response to geographic and climate change using Caryopteris mongholica as material, which has a wide range of distribution environments.

Results

We selected 40 natural populations of C. mongholica, measured 8 leaf functional traits, analyzed the extent of trait variation among and within populations, and developed geographic and climatic models to explain trait variation between populations. Our results showed that the variation in leaf functional traits of C. mongholica was primarily lower within populations compared to among populations. Specifically, the leaf area (LA) exhibited higher variability both among and within populations, whereas leaf carbon content (LC) exhibited lower variation within populations but greater variation among populations. We observed a specific covariation pattern among traits and a strong linkage between morphological, economic, and mechanical traits. Increasing minimum temperature, precipitation of month, and seasonal precipitation differences all limited the growth and development of C. mongholica. However, it was observed that an increase in mean annual precipitation positively influenced the morphological development of its leaf.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the response of intra-specific trait variation to the environment and provide valuable insights into the adaptation of intra-specific leaf functional traits under changing climatic conditions.
Tumor to liver maximum standardized uptake value ratio of FDG-PET/CT parameters predicts tumor treatment response and survival of stage III non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Chen Wei , Zhao Kewei , Qiu Xiaowen , Li Tao , Zhu Xingzhuang , Sun Peng , Wang Chunsheng , Song Yipeng
Published: August 2023

Background

To assess the predictive values of primary tumor FDG uptake for patients with inoperable stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT).

Methods

A total of 107 patients with diagnosis of stage III NSCLC and CCRT were enrolled. The tumor maximum uptake value (SUVmax) was standardized by calculating several ratios between tumor and each background tissues. The receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) was used to compare the predictive power of prognostic models. The tumor objective response rate (ORR) and overall survival (OS) were compared and analyzed by the Kaplan–Meier method and univariate and multivariate Cox regression models.

Results

The areas under ROC curve (AUCs) ranged from 0.72 to 0.81 among these tumor SUVmax and standardized SUVmax ratios, and the tumor SUVmax and tumor SUVmax-to-liver SUVmean ratio (TLMR) were more predictive of ORR (AUC, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.73–0.88 for tumor SUVmax and AUC, 0.84; 95%CI, 0.76–0.91 for TLMR) than any of other SUVmax ratios. The patients with lower tumor SUVmax, SUVmean and SUVmax ratios had a significantly better OS than those with their corresponding higher ones. Moreover, both univariate and multivariable analyses revealed that TLMR was significantly associated with better ORR and OS after adjustment with other prognostic variables.

Conclusions

TLMR, a standardized tumor SUVmax, was an independent prognostic predictor for tumor ORR and OS of patients with stage III NSCLC after CCRT.
Development and validation of a nomogram based on biparametric MRI PI-RADS v2.1 and clinical parameters to avoid unnecessary prostate biopsies
Authors: Wang Yunhan , Wang Lei , Tang Xiaohua , Zhang Yong , Zhang Na , Zhi Biao , Niu Xiangke
Published: August 2023

Background

Biparametric MRI (bpMRI) is a faster, contrast-free, and less expensive MRI protocol that facilitates the detection of prostate cancer. The aim of this study is to determine whether a biparametric MRI PI-RADS v2.1 score-based model could reduce unnecessary biopsies in patients with suspected prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

The patients who underwent MRI-guided biopsies and systematic biopsies between January 2020 and January 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The development cohort used to derive the prediction model consisted of 275 patients. Two validation cohorts included 201 patients and 181 patients from 2 independent institutions. Predictive models based on the bpMRI PI-RADS v2.1 score (bpMRI score) and clinical parameters were used to detect clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) and compared by analyzing the area under the curve (AUC) and decision curves. Spearman correlation analysis was utilized to determine the relationship between International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade and clinical parameters/bpMRI score.

Results

Logistic regression models were constructed using data from the development cohort to generate nomograms. By applying the models to the all cohorts, the AUC for csPCa was significantly higher for the bpMRI PI-RADS v2.1 score-based model than for the clinical model in both cohorts (p < 0.001). Considering the test trade-offs, urologists would agree to perform 10 fewer bpMRIs to avoid one unnecessary biopsy, with a risk threshold of 10–20% in practice. Correlation analysis showed a strong correlation between the bpMRI score and ISUP grade.

Conclusion

A predictive model based on the bpMRI score and clinical parameters significantly improved csPCa risk stratification, and the bpMRI score can be used to determine the aggressiveness of PCa prior to biopsy.
Renal tubular acidosis without interstitial nephritis in Sjögren’s syndrome: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hamada Shintaro , Takata Tomoaki , Yamada Kentaro , Yamamoto Marie , Mae Yukari , Iyama Takuji , Sugihara Takaaki , Takata Miki , Isomoto Hajime
Published: August 2023

Background

Renal tubular acidosis is the principal clinical feature associated with tubulointerstitial nephritis in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome. Renal tubular dysfunction due to interstitial nephritis has been considered the underlying pathophysiology connecting renal tubular acidosis and primary Sjögren’s syndrome. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of renal tubular acidosis in primary Sjögren’s syndrome is not fully understood.

Case presentation

A 30-year-old woman was admitted with complaints of weakness in the extremities. The patient was hospitalized thirteen years earlier for similar issues and was diagnosed with hypokalemic paralysis due to distal renal tubular acidosis with primary Sjögren’s syndrome. This diagnosis was based on a positive Schirmer's test. Besides, anti-Sjögren’s syndrome-related antigen A was also detected. Laboratory tests indicated distal RTA; however, a renal biopsy showed no obvious interstitial nephritis. Laboratory tests conducted during the second admission indicated distal renal tubular acidosis. Therefore, a renal biopsy was performed again, which revealed interstitial nephritis. Histological analysis of acid–base transporters revealed the absence of vacuolar type H+-ATPases in the collecting duct. The vacuolar type H+-ATPase was also absent in the past renal biopsy, suggesting that the alteration in acid–base transporters is independent of interstitial nephritis.

Conclusions

This case study demonstrates that vacuolar-type H+-ATPases are associated with distal renal tubular acidosis, and distal renal tubular acidosis precedes interstitial nephritis in patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome.
Preferred mode of delivery and its associated factors in pregnant women with a previous cesarean scar at a tertiary care hospital in Ethiopia: institutional-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Wagaw Abebe Chanie , Sendekie Ashenafi Kibret , Nigatu Solomon Gedlu , Mihretie Getasew Sisay
Published: August 2023

Background

Vaginal births after cesarean or elective repeat cesarean sections (CS) are the options for delivery after one cesarean scar. However, there is a lack of data regarding the preferred next mode of delivery in Ethiopia after a previous cesarean section. Thus, this study assessed the preferred mode of delivery and determinants after one previous CS in the antenatal clinic at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UoGCSH).

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant mothers with one previous CS at UoGCSH from March to August 2022. Structured questionnaires were used to collect the data. The collected data were entered, cleaned, and edited using Epi-data 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. A binary logistic regression was performed to assess the determinants of the preferred mode of delivery. A p-value of < 0.05 at the 95% confidence level (CI) was considered statistically significant.

Results

The majority, 71.5% (95% CI: 64.7, 77.1), of participants preferred the trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) as their mode of delivery. Mothers who were married (AOR = 4.47, 95% CI: 1.19–16.85), had a diploma educational level (AOR = 3.77, 95% CI: 1.84–12.36), had previous post-cesarean complications (AOR = 3.25, 95% CI: 1.08–9.74), and knew about the success of the trial of labor after cesarean (AOR = 13.56, 95% CI: 4.52–37.19) were found to prefer the trial of labor compared with their counterparts.

Conclusion

This study concluded that most pregnant mothers preferred labor trials after one CS, which is a bit lower but comparable with recommended practice guidelines. Providing adequate information and counseling mothers to make informed decisions about their preferred mode of delivery could be substantial.
Addressing cancer care in low- to middle-income countries: a call for sustainable innovations and impactful research
Authors: Stefan D. Cristina , Tang Shenglan
Published: August 2023

Most new cancer cases are currently arising in low- and middle-income countries, where their outcomes are significantly poorer compared to high-income countries. Innovative solutions are imperiously needed to prevent, detect early, and manage cancer in low- and middle-income countries, aiming to improve the chances of survival.
Food insecurity and risky sexual behaviors among college students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Assoumou Bertille , Pharr Jennifer , Coughenour Courtney
Published: August 2023

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and food insecurity are public health concerns in the United States (US) due to their growing prevalence and incidence among young people, and particularly in college students. Studies have reported that college students are at higher risk of STIs due to the high rates of risky sexual behavior (RSB). Most studies report a food insecurity prevalence of more than 30% among college students, which was more than twice the overall national food insecurity rate of 10.5% in 2020. This study aims to assess the relationship between food insecurity and RSB among college students during the early-stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study from a convenience sample of 320 students enrolled at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas during the 2020 Fall semester. Data was collected using an online survey. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted.

Results

Food insecure students were 2.9 times more likely to report receiving or giving fellatio without using a condom at least once in the past 6 months (P < 0.01) compared to food secure students. There was no significant association between food insecurity and other RSBs evaluated in this study.

Conclusions

The current study provides valuable information on food insecurity and RSB among college students during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Larger and longitudinal studies are needed to assess the trajectory of the association between food insecurity and fellatio with no condom use and other RSB among college students.
A cohort study of BMI changes among U.S. Army soldiers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wuerdeman Marc , Banaag Amanda , Janvrin Miranda Lynn , Koehlmoos Tracey Pérez
Published: August 2023

Background

The increasing number of individuals with obesity is a healthcare concern in the United States (U.S.) population; the men and women who serve in the Army are no exception, with 17.3% of soldiers categorized with a body mass index (BMI) of Obesity in 2017. The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted life around the globe. During the pandemic, restrictions to soldier movement and activity were put in place to limit COVID-19 transmission. We strive to assess what effects these changes may have had on the BMIs of soldiers.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of active duty U.S. Army soldiers using data from the Military Health System Data Repository. BMI was calculated and categorized before (February 2019 – January 2020) and during the pandemic (September 2020 – June 2021). Women who were pregnant or delivered during and one year prior to the study periods were excluded. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests evaluating mean BMI, percent change, and the Stuart-Maxwell test for marginal homogeneity.

Results

191,894 soldiers were included in the cohort. During the pandemic, 50.5% of soldiers in the cohort were classified as Overweight and 23.2% were classified as Obesity. T-test and Stuart-Maxwell test indicated significant differences and changes in BMI categories between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods, particularly the Obesity category, which experienced a 5% growth and 27% change. Significant absolute changes were observed during the pandemic; 26.7% of soldiers classified as Healthy weight in the pre-pandemic period shifted to Overweight in the pandemic period and 15.6% shifted from Overweight in the pre-pandemic period to Obesity in the pandemic period. Absolute increases were observed across every demographic category in soldiers with obesity; the categories that saw the highest increases were female, ages 20–24, White, and Junior Enlisted soldiers.

Conclusions

Higher rates of obesity may result in decreased health of the force. The specific needs of younger and Junior Enlisted soldiers need to be further addressed, with focus on special intervention programs by the U.S. Army.