bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tobacco impact on quality of life, a cross-sectional study of smokers, snuff-users and non-users of tobacco
Authors: Wachsmann Solbrith , Nordeman Lena , Billhult Annika , Rembeck Gun
Published: May 2023

Background

Tobacco smoking is a major public health issue, and also affects health-related quality of life. There has been considerable debate as to whether oral moist snuff, a form of tobacco placed in the oral cavity between the upper lip and gum as in sublabial administration, can be considered a safe alternative to smoking. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between health-related quality of life and smoking, snuff use, gender and age.

Method

This cross-sectional study included 674 women and 605 men aged 18 to 65 recruited through a Swedish population database. Subjects completed a questionnaire about tobacco use and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed for the association between health-related quality of life and tobacco use, gender and age. The median perceived health-related quality of life (SF-36) for an age-matched Swedish population was used as the cutoff: above the cutoff indicated better-than-average health coded as 1, or otherwise coded as 0. The independent variables were smoking (pack-decades), snuff-use (box-decades), gender and age in decades. The outcome was presented as the Odds Ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for each independent variable.

Results

The experience of cigarette smoking is associated with decreased physical functioning (PF), general health (GH), vitality (VT), social functioning (SF) and mental health (MH) as well as both lower physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS). Further, the experience of snuff use is associated with bodily pain (BP), lower VT, and lower PCS. In the study population older age is associated with lower PF,GH, VT, MH, PCS and MCS. Female gender is associated with lower PF and VT.

Conclusion

This study shows that smoking is associated with lower health-related quality of life. The results also illuminate the detrimental health effects of using snuff, implying that snuff too is a health hazard. As studies on the bodily effects of snuff are relatively scarce, it is imperative that we continue to address and investigate the impact on the population using snuff on a regular basis.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT05409963 05251022 08/06/22.
Construction of an endoplasmic reticulum stress-related signature in lung adenocarcinoma by comprehensive bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Wang Yang , Nie Jun , Dai Ling , Hu Weiheng , Han Sen , Zhang Jie , Chen Xiaoling , Ma Xiangjuan , Tian Guangming , Wu Di , Zhang Ziran , Long Jieran , Fang Jian
Published: May 2023

Background

Lung Adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a major component of lung cancer. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) has emerged as a new target for some tumor treatments.

Methods

The expression and clinical data of LUAD samples were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, followed by acquiring ERS-related genes (ERSGs) from the GeneCards database. Differentially expressed endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes (DE-ERSGs) were screened and used to construct a risk model by Cox regression analysis. Kaplan–Meier (K-M) curves and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to determine the risk validity of the model. Moreover, enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the high- and low- risk groups was conducted to investigate the functions related to the risk model. Furthermore, the differences in ERS status, vascular-related genes, tumor mutation burden (TMB), immunotherapy response, chemotherapy drug sensitivity and other indicators between the high- and low- risk groups were studied. Finally, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to validate the mRNA expression levels of prognostic model genes.

Results

A total of 81 DE-ERSGs were identified in the TCGA-LUAD dataset, and a risk model, including HSPD1, PCSK9, GRIA1, MAOB, COL1A1, and CAV1, was constructed by Cox regression analysis. K-M and ROC analyses showed that the high-risk group had a low survival, and the Area Under Curve (AUC) of ROC curves of 1-, 3- and 5-years overall survival was all greater than 0.6. In addition, functional enrichment analysis suggested that the risk model was related to collagen and extracellular matrix. Furthermore, differential analysis showed vascular-related genes FLT1, TMB, neoantigen, PD-L1 protein (CD274), Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE), and T cell exclusion score were significantly different between the high- and low-risk groups. Finally, qRT-PCR results showed that the mRNA expression levels of 6 prognostic genes were consistent with the analysis.

Conclusion

A novel ERS-related risk model, including HSPD1, PCSK9, GRIA1, MAOB, COL1A1, and CAV1, was developed and validated, which provided a theoretical basis and reference value for ERS-related fields in the study and treatment of LUAD.
Large left varicocele in a patient with portal hypertension treated via transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement and both variceal and varicocele embolization
Authors: Megahed Ayah , Schlachter Todd , Cornman-Homonoff Joshua
Published: May 2023

Background

Scrotal swelling from varicocele is a common complaint in adult men. Varicocele due to portosystemic collaterals is a rare presentation of portal hypertension. Imaging workup and intervention for varicocele in this case is more complex than varicocele due to absent or incompetent valves in the testicular veins and pampiniform plexus.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 53-year-old man with alcohol-related cirrhosis presented with persistent left scrotal heaviness, pain, and swelling found to have a large left varicocele. Given his history of cirrhosis, a contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen and pelvis was obtained showing that the varices were supplied by a vessel arising from the splenic vein and draining into the left renal vein as well as gastric varices. Varicocele embolization alone is not sufficient in this case, and we treated with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, variceal and varicocele embolization.

Conclusion

In patients presenting with a varicocele with a history of cirrhosis/portal hypertension, cross sectional imaging of the abdomen and pelvis should be obtained prior to treatment to evaluate for the presence of varices which may be pressured by varicocele embolization. If present, consideration should be given to referral to an interventional radiologist for possible concurrent variceal embolization and TIPS placement.
The role of community healthcare professionals in discussing sexual assault experiences during obstetrics and gynecological healthcare appointments
Authors: DeMaria Andrea L. , Meier Stephanie , King Hannah , Sidorowicz Haley , Seigfried-Spellar Kathryn C. , Schwab-Reese Laura M.
Published: May 2023

Background

Nearly half of adult women in the US report experiencing sexual assault, with almost one-fifth reporting rape. For many sexual assault survivors, healthcare professionals are the first point of contact and disclosure. This study aimed to understand how healthcare professionals working in community settings perceived their role in discussing sexual violence experiences with women during obstetrical and gynecological healthcare appointments. The secondary purpose was to compare healthcare professionals’ perspectives with the patients’ to determine how sexual violence conversations should occur in these environments.

Methods

Data were collected in two phases. Phase 1 consisted of 6 focus groups (Sept-Dec, 2019) with women aged 18–45 (n = 22) living in Indiana who sought community-based or private healthcare for women’s reproductive healthcare needs. Phase 2 included 20 key-informant interviews with non-physician healthcare professionals (i.e., NP, RN, CNM, doula, pharmacist, chiropractor) living in Indiana (September 2019-May 2020) who provided community-based women’s reproductive healthcare. Focus groups and interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analyses. HyperRESEARCH assisted in data management and organization.

Results

There were three resulting themes: (1) healthcare professionals’ approaches to screening for a history of sexual violence varied depending on how they ask, what setting they work in, and type of professional asking; (2) healthcare experiences can compound traumatic experiences and create distrust with survivors; and (3) sexual violence impacts patient healthcare experiences through what services they seek, how professionals may interact with them, and what professionals they are willing to utilize.

Conclusions

Findings offered insight into actionable and practical strategies for enhancing sexual violence screening and discussions in community-based women’s reproductive health settings. The findings offer strategies to address barriers and facilitators among community healthcare professionals and the people they serve. Incorporating healthcare professional and patient experiences and preferences for violence-related discussions during obstetrical and gynecological healthcare appointments can assist in violence prevention efforts, improve patient-professional rapport, and yield better health outcomes.
Household living conditions and individual behaviours associated with malaria risk: a community-based survey in the Limpopo River Valley, 2020, South Africa
Authors: Patrick Sean M. , Bendiane Marc-Karim , Kruger Taneshka , Harris Bernice N. , Riddin Megan A. , Trehard Helene , de Jager Christiaan , Bornman Riana , Gaudart Jean
Published: May 2023

Background

Over the past decade, implementation of multiple malaria control strategies in most countries has largely contributed to advance the global malaria elimination agenda. Nevertheless, in some regions, seasonal epidemics may adversely affect the health of local populations. In South Africa, Plasmodium falciparum malaria is still present, with the Vhembe District experiencing an incidence rate of 3.79 cases/1000 person-years in 2018, particularly in the Limpopo River Valley, bordering Zimbabwe. To elucidate the complexity of the mechanisms involved in local regular malaria outbreaks, a community-based survey was implemented in 2020 that focused on the relationship between housing conditions and malaria risky behaviours.

Methods

The community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among the population of three study sites in the Vhembe District, which were selected based on malaria incidence rate, social and health characteristics of inhabitants. The household survey used a random sampling strategy, where data were collected through face-to-face questionnaires and field notes; to described the housing conditions (housing questionnaire), and focus on individual behaviours of household members. Statistical analyses were performed combining hierarchical classifications and logistic regressions.

Results

In this study, 398 households were described, covering a population of 1681 inhabitants of all ages, and 439 adults who participated in community-based survey. The analysis of situations at risk of malaria showed that the influence of contextual factors, particularly those defined by the type of habitat, was significant. Housing conditions and poor living environments were factors of malaria exposure and history, regardless of site of investigation, individual preventive behaviours and personal characteristics of inhabitants. Multivariate models showed that, considering all personal characteristics or behaviours of inhabitants, housing conditions such as overcrowding pressures were significantly associated with individual malaria risk.

Conclusions

The results showed the overwhelming weight of social and contextual factors on risk situations. Considering the Fundamental Causes Theory, malaria control policies based on health behaviour prevention, should reinforce access to care or promoting health education actions. Overarching economic development interventions in targeted geographical areas and populations have to be implemented, so that malaria control and elimination strategies can be efficiently and effectively managed.
Spatial effects of public health laboratory emergency testing institutions under COVID-19 in China
Authors: Shi Baoguo , Wang Yanjie , Bai Xiaodan , Lai Yongqiang , Xiang Wenjing , Wu Bing , Xia Qi , Liu Xinwei , Li Ye
Published: May 2023

Background

The transmission of 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has caused global panic in the past three years. Countries have learned an important lesson in the practice of responding to COVID-19 pandemic: timely and accurate diagnosis is critical. As an important technology of virus diagnosis, nucleic acid testing (NAT) is also widely used in the identification of other infectious diseases. However, geographic factors often constrain the provision of public health services such as NAT services, and the spatial nature of their resource allocation is a significant problem.

Methods

We used OLS, OLS-SAR, GWR, GWR-SAR, MGWR, and MGWR-SAR models to identify the determinants of spatial difference and spatial heterogeneity affecting NAT institutions in China.

Results

Firstly, we identify that the distribution of NAT institutions in China shows a clear spatial agglomeration, with an overall trend of increasing distribution from west to east. There is significant spatial heterogeneity in Chinese NAT institutions. Secondly, the MGWR-SAR model results show that city level, population density, number of tertiary hospitals and number of public health emergency outbreaks are important factors influencing the spatial heterogeneity of NAT institutions in China.

Conclusions

Therefore, the government should allocate health resources rationally, optimise the spatial layout of testing facilities, and improve the ability to respond to public health emergencies. Meanwhile, third-party testing facilities need to focus on their role in the public health emergency response system as a market force to alleviate the inequitable allocation of health resources between regions. By taking these measures to prepare adequately for possible future public health emergencies.
The oral microbiota is a reservoir for antimicrobial resistance: resistome and phenotypic resistance characteristics of oral biofilm in health, caries, and periodontitis
Authors: Anderson A. C. , von Ohle C. , Frese C. , Boutin S. , Bridson C. , Schoilew K. , Peikert S. A. , Hellwig E. , Pelz K. , Wittmer A. , Wolff D. , Al-Ahmad A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an ever-growing threat to modern medicine and, according to the latest reports, it causes nearly twice as many deaths globally as AIDS or malaria. Elucidating reservoirs and dissemination routes of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) are essential in fighting AMR. Human commensals represent an important reservoir, which is underexplored for the oral microbiota. Here, we set out to investigate the resistome and phenotypic resistance of oral biofilm microbiota from 179 orally healthy (H), caries active (C), and periodontally diseased (P) individuals (TRN: DRKS00013119, Registration date: 22.10.2022). The samples were analysed using shotgun metagenomic sequencing combined, for the first time, with culture technique. A selection of 997 isolates was tested for resistance to relevant antibiotics.

Results

The shotgun metagenomics sequencing resulted in 2,069,295,923 reads classified into 4856 species-level OTUs. PERMANOVA analysis of beta-diversity revealed significant differences between the groups regarding their microbiota composition and their ARG profile. The samples were clustered into three ecotypes based on their microbial composition. The bacterial composition of H and C samples greatly overlapped and was based on ecotypes 1 and 2 whereas ecotype 3 was only detected in periodontitis. We found 64 ARGs conveying resistance to 36 antibiotics, particularly to tetracycline, macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin, and beta-lactam antibiotics, and a correspondingly high prevalence of phenotypic resistance. Based on the microbiota composition, these ARGs cluster in different resistotypes, and a higher prevalence is found in healthy and caries active than in periodontally diseased individuals. There was a significant association between the resistotypes and the ecotypes. Although numerous associations were found between specific antibiotic resistance and bacterial taxa, only a few taxa showed matching associations with both genotypic and phenotypic analyses.

Conclusions

Our findings show the importance of the oral microbiota from different niches within the oral cavity as a reservoir for antibiotic resistance. Additionally, the present study showed the need for using more than one method to reveal antibiotic resistance within the total oral biofilm, as a clear mismatch between the shotgun metagenomics method and the phenotypic resistance characterization was shown.
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the vascular smooth muscle cell phenotypic landscape in aortic aneurysm
Authors: Cao Genmao , Xuan Xuezhen , Li Yaling , Hu Jie , Zhang Ruijing , Jin Haijiang , Dong Honglin
Published: May 2023

Background and objectives

Phenotypic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) has been linked to aortic aneurysm, but the phenotypic landscape in aortic aneurysm is poorly understood. The present study aimed to analyse the phenotypic landscape, phenotypic differentiation trajectory, and potential functions of various VSMCs phenotypes in aortic aneurysm.

Methods

Single-cell sequencing data of 12 aortic aneurysm samples and 5 normal aorta samples (obtained from GSE166676 and GSE155468) were integrated by the R package Harmony. VSMCs were identified according to the expression levels of ACTA2 and MYH11. VSMCs clustering was determined by the R package ‘Seurat’. Cell annotation was determined by the R package ‘singleR’ and background knowledge of VSMCs phenotypic switching. The secretion of collagen, proteinases, and chemokines by each VSMCs phenotype was assessed. Cell‒cell junctions and cell–matrix junctions were also scored by examining the expression of adhesion genes. Trajectory analysis was performed by the R package ‘Monocle2’. qPCR was used to quantify VSMCs markers. RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (RNA FISH) was performed to determine the spatial localization of vital VSMCs phenotypes in aortic aneurysms.

Results

A total of 7150 VSMCs were categorize into 6 phenotypes: contractile VSMCs, fibroblast-like VSMCs, T-cell-like VSMCs, adipocyte-like VSMCs, macrophage-like VSMCs, and mesenchymal-like VSMCs. The proportions of T-cell-like VSMCs, adipocyte-like VSMCs, macrophage-like VSMCs, and mesenchymal-like VSMCs were significantly increased in aortic aneurysm. Fibroblast-like VSMCs secreted abundant amounts of collagens. T-cell-like VSMCs and macrophage-like VSMCs were characterized by high chemokine levels and proinflammatory effects. Adipocyte-like VSMCs and mesenchymal-like VSMCs were associated with high proteinase levels. RNA FISH validated the presence of T-cell-like VSMCs and macrophage-like VSMCs in the tunica media and the presence of mesenchymal-like VSMCs in the tunica media and tunica adventitia.

Conclusion

A variety of VSMCs phenotypes are involved in the formation of aortic aneurysm. T-cell-like VSMCs, macrophage-like VSMCs, and mesenchymal-like VSMCs play pivotal roles in this process.
Novel CH25H+ and OASL+ microglia subclusters play distinct roles in cerebral ischemic stroke
Authors: Zhang Yueman , Guo Yunlu , Li Ruqi , Huang Tingting , Li Yan , Xie Wanqin , Chen Chen , Chen Weijie , Wan Jieqing , Yu Weifeng , Li Peiying
Published: May 2023

Background

Microglial polarization is one of the most promising therapeutic targets for multiple central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including ischemic stroke. However, detailed transcriptional alteration of microglia following cerebral ischemic stroke remains largely unclear.

Methods

Focal cerebral ischemia was induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) for 60 min in mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was performed using ischemic brain tissues from tMCAO and sham mice 3 days after surgery. Ch25h−/− mice were used to investigate the role of specific microglia subcluster on post-stroke infarct volume and neuroinflammation.

Results

We identified a relatively homeostatic subcluster with enhanced antigen processing and three “ischemic stroke associated microglia” (ISAM): MKI67+, CH25H+ and OASL+ subclusters. We found the MKI67+ subcluster undergo proliferation and differentiation into CH25H+ and OASL+ subclusters. CH25H+ microglia was a critical subcluster of ISAM that exhibited increased phagocytosis and neuroprotective property after stroke. Ch25h−/− mice developed significantly increased infarct volume following ischemic stroke compared to Ch25h+/−. Meanwhile, the OASL+ subcluster accumulated in the ischemic brain and was associated with the evolving of neuroinflammation after stroke, which was further aggravated in the aged mice brain.

Conclusions

Our data reveal previously unrecognized roles of the newly defined CH25H+ and OASL+ microglia subclusters following ischemic stroke, with novel insights for precise microglia modulation towards stroke therapy.
Multi-label transcriptional classification of colorectal cancer reflects tumor cell population heterogeneity
Authors: Cascianelli Silvia , Barbera Chiara , Ulla Alexandra Ambra , Grassi Elena , Lupo Barbara , Pasini Diego , Bertotti Andrea , Trusolino Livio , Medico Enzo , Isella Claudio , Masseroli Marco
Published: May 2023

Background

Transcriptional classification has been used to stratify colorectal cancer (CRC) into molecular subtypes with distinct biological and clinical features. However, it is not clear whether such subtypes represent discrete, mutually exclusive entities or molecular/phenotypic states with potential overlap. Therefore, we focused on the CRC Intrinsic Subtype (CRIS) classifier and evaluated whether assigning multiple CRIS subtypes to the same sample provides additional clinically and biologically relevant information.

Methods

A multi-label version of the CRIS classifier (multiCRIS) was applied to newly generated RNA-seq profiles from 606 CRC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), together with human CRC bulk and single-cell RNA-seq datasets. Biological and clinical associations of single- and multi-label CRIS were compared. Finally, a machine learning-based multi-label CRIS predictor (ML2CRIS) was developed for single-sample classification.

Results

Surprisingly, about half of the CRC cases could be significantly assigned to more than one CRIS subtype. Single-cell RNA-seq analysis revealed that multiple CRIS membership can be a consequence of the concomitant presence of cells of different CRIS class or, less frequently, of cells with hybrid phenotype. Multi-label assignments were found to improve prediction of CRC prognosis and response to treatment. Finally, the ML2CRIS classifier was validated for retaining the same biological and clinical associations also in the context of single-sample classification.

Conclusions

These results show that CRIS subtypes retain their biological and clinical features even when concomitantly assigned to the same CRC sample. This approach could be potentially extended to other cancer types and classification systems.
Integrable aspects, analytic solutions and their asymptotic analysis for a discrete relativistic Toda lattice system
Authors: Qin Meng-Li , Wen Xiao-Yong
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we investigate a discrete relativistic Toda lattice ($\mathrm{dRTL}_{+}(\alpha )$

dRTL
+

(
α
)
) system, which may describe particle vibrations in lattices with an exponential interaction force. First, we construct its discrete generalized $(m,2N-m)$
(
m
,
2
N
−
m
)
-fold Darboux transformation, from which we can explicitly give its analytic solutions, such as discrete multi-soliton solutions, position controllable rational and semi-rational solutions and their hyperbolic-and-rational mixed solutions, whose properties and dynamics are analyzed and shown graphically. Second, the asymptotic behaviors of diverse exact solutions are analyzed, which shows that the interactions among different solutions are always elastic. In particular, the position of controllable rational solutions and asymptotic state analysis of discrete hyperbolic-and-rational mixed solutions are obtained and discussed for the first time. Finally, we study some integrable properties of this system, such as the integrable hierarchy and relevant Hamiltonian structures and conservation laws from a discrete spectral problem. These results may be helpful for understanding nonlinear lattice dynamics.
COVID-19 pandemic response in the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion: methods, participation and recommendations of a longitudinal cross-border study
Authors: Stabourlos C. , van Bilsen C. J. A. , Brinkhues S. , Moonen C. P. B. , Demarest S. , Hanssen D. A. T. , van Loo I. H. M. , Savelkoul P. H. M. , Philippsen D. , van der Zanden B. A. M. , Dukers-Muijrers N. H. T. M. , Hoebe C. J. P. A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Comparative data collection in transborder areas can contribute to informed decision making processes when dealing with borderless health threats such as pandemics, and thus help minimize the negative health effects for its citizens. To examine the pandemic response over time and the impact of infectious disease control in a cross-border setting, a prospective longitudinal study was conducted in the border area between Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. In the spring of 2021, a random sample of 26,925 adult citizens selected from governmental registries was invited to collect a blood sample at home for SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing and to fill in an online questionnaire on attitudes and behaviour towards infection prevention measures, cross-border mobility, social network and support, COVID-19 self-reported infection(s) and symptoms, vaccination, general self-reported health and socio-demographics. In autumn 2021, participants were invited for a follow-up round. An online tool was developed to coordinate fieldwork procedures, real-time monitoring of participation and consultation of antibody test results. Furthermore, a helpdesk in all three languages for participants’ support was set up.

Results

In the first round, 6,006 citizens in the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion participated. 15.3% of the invited citizens on the Belgian side of the border participated. In the Netherlands and Germany this was respectively 27% and 23.7%. In the follow-up round 4,286 (71.4%) citizens participated for the second time. The participation rate was highest in the age group 50–69 years and lowest in > 80 in all sub regions of the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion. More women participated than men. Overall, more blood samples were returned than completed questionnaires. In total, 3,344 citizens in the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion completed all components of participation in both rounds.

Conclusions

The collection of comparative data can help better assess the pandemic response and the impact of infectious disease control in a cross-border area. Recommendations for a longitudinal cross-border study include a centralized online environment, mapping out potential challenges related to national regulations in the preparation phase and organizing regional coordination centres to create more familiarity and trust towards the involved organisations.
FVC/DLCO identifies pulmonary hypertension and predicts 5-year all-cause mortality in patients with COPD
Authors: Li Yuer , Zhang Rui , Shan Hu , Shi Wenhua , Feng Xiaoli , Chen Haijuan , Yang Xia , Li Yali , Zhang Jie , Zhang Ming
Published: May 2023

Background

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, it is unknown whether the ratio of forced vital capacity (FVC) to diffusing lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) can identify PH in the patients with COPD and predict its prognosis.

Methods

The study population I included 937 COPD patients who were admitted to inpatient treatments from 2010 to 2017, and finally 750 patients were available to follow-up the 5-year all-cause mortality (study population II). Clinical characteristics of the study population were recorded.

Results

COPD patients with PH had a higher FVC/DLCO value compared with the patients without PH. The threshold for FVC/DLCO to identify PH in COPD patients was 0.44 l/mmol/min/kPa. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that FVC/DLCO was a significant predictor for PH in the patients with COPD. The study population II showed that the 5-year all-cause mortality of COPD patients was significantly higher in combined with PH group than without PH group. Compared with the survivor group, FVC/DLCO value was significantly increased in non-survivor group. The threshold for FVC/DLCO to predict 5-year all-cause mortality was 0.41 l/mmol/min/kPa. Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that 5-year cumulative survival rate for COPD patients were significantly decreased when the value of FVC/DLCO was ≥ 0.41 l/mmol/min/kPa. Multivariate cox regression analysis showed that FVC/DLCO was an independent prognostic factor for 5-year all-cause mortality in COPD patients.

Conclusion

FVC/DLCO could identify PH in the patients with COPD and was an independent predictor for 5-year all-cause mortality of COPD.
Association between corrected serum calcium levels after dialysis and post-dialysis fatigue risk: a hospital-based case–control study
Authors: Xiao Ping , Wang Zhi-Hong , Lu Yan , Zhang Shuang , Jin Yu-Xin , Liu Xin , Jiang Zhen-Li , Liu Shu-Xin
Published: May 2023

Objective

Post-dialysis fatigue (PDF) is an important problem in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD); however, evidence of the association between serum calcium after dialysis and the risk of PDF is limited and controversial. We explored this association among patients receiving MHD.

Methods

We carried out a case–control study of patients in the dialysis unit of Dalian Municipal Central Hospital between December 2019 and January 2020, including 340 patients with PDF and 270 patients without PDF. PDF was assessed by a \validated self-administered questionnaire. Clinical variables were tested for multicollinearity using variance inflation factor analysis. Corrected serum calcium levels were categorized into three groups, with the lowest tertile used as the reference category. The odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for PDF risk were estimated using an unconditional logistic regression model.

Result

After adjusting for potential confounders, corrected serum calcium levels showed a significant positive association with the risk of PDF (ORT3vs.T1 = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.01–2.58). Notably, after stratification by age, corrected serum calcium was also positively associated with the risk of PDF in patients aged ≥ 65 years (ORT3vs.T1  = 4.25, 95% CI 1.66–11.46). Furthermore, a significant linear trend and interaction were also observed (P < 0.05).

Discussion

Higher corrected serum calcium levels after dialysis might increase the risk of PDF among MHD patients. However, further studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Disordered eating and considerations for the transgender community: a review of the literature and clinical guidance for assessment and treatment
Authors: McGregor Kerry , McKenna John L. , Barrera Ellis P. , Williams Coleen R. , Hartman-Munick Sydney M. , Guss Carly E.
Published: May 2023

Background

It has been well established that individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer are at increased risk for mental health pathology, including eating disorders/disordered eating behaviors (ED/DEB). However, less is understood about the unique experiences of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people who struggle with ED/DEB.

Aims

The purpose of this literature review is to examine the literature regarding the unique risk factors for TGD individuals who experience ED/DEB through a lens informed by the minority stress model. Additionally, guidance around the assessment and clinical management of eating disorders for TGD individuals will be presented.

Results

TGD people are at increased risk for developing ED/DEB due to a number of factors including: gender dysphoria, minority stress, the desire to pass, and barriers to gender affirming care.

Conclusion

While guidance around assessment and treatment of ED/DEB for TGD individuals is still limited, adhering to a gender affirmative care model is essential.
Age similarities in the anchoring effect in emotion intensity judgment
Authors: Jin Menghan , Peng Huamao , Wang Dahua
Published: May 2023

Background

The anchoring effect refers to the tendency that an individual’s numerical judgment would assimilate to an anchor (a numerical value) that appears before that judgment. This study investigated whether the anchoring effect exists in the emotion judgment of younger and older adults and observed the age-related characteristics. This could not only broaden the explanation of the anchoring effect but also link this classic judgment bias with daily emotion judgment to refresh our understanding of older adults’ ability in emotional perspective taking.

Method

Participants (older adults: n = 64, age range: 60–74, 27 males; younger adults: n = 68, age range: 18–34, 34 males) read a brief emotional story and compared the protagonist’s emotion intensity to a given numerical anchor (lower or higher than the anchor) and then estimated the protagonist’s possible emotion intensity in that story. The task was divided into two cases according to anchor relevance (anchors are relevant or irrelevant relative to the judgment target).

Results

The results showed that the estimates were higher under high-anchor than low-anchor conditions, suggesting the robust anchoring effect. Further, the anchoring effect was greater for anchor-relevant than anchor-irrelevant tasks and for negative rather than positive emotions. No age differences were found.

Discussion and conclusions

The results indicated that the anchoring effect is robust and stable for younger and older adults, even though the anchor information seemed irrelevant. Finally, perceiving others’ negative emotions is a crucial but rather difficult aspect of empathy, which could be a challenge and requires more caution for accurate interpretation.
Cleaning testing of nineteenth-century plaster surface models with thin polyacrylamide-based gel layers attached to flexible polyethylene films
Authors: Theodorakopoulos Charis , Risdonne Valentina , Freese Silvia , Diraoui Samar , Jonas Ulrich
Published: May 2023

This paper explores the cleaning efficacy of polyethylene-supported 15-min photo-crosslinked poly (acrylamide-co-benzophenone) surface-attached gels (SAGs) on gypsum plaster surface models inspired by nineteenth-century casts. Cleaning tests were performed on plaster surface models with and without organic and inorganic coatings, which had been exposed to accelerated ageing by heat, humidity, and light after artificial soiling. The specific types of SAG systems were selected based on their water loading and dehydration capacities. The SAGs were loaded with customized solutions and applied on the plaster models for one minute. Cleaning efficacy was evaluated with visible reflectance, UV fluorescence photography, scanning electron microscopy, colorimetry, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, glossimetry, high resolution 3D microscopy, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 2D Fourier transform infrared imaging. The SAGs provided fast and minimal wetting of the substrates, prevented excessive liquid spreading and allowed the effective liquid contact with the soiled gypsum plaster surface. A striking removal of soils from the gypsum plaster surface models was observed, which suggests convenient application of the SAG systems for the cleaning of historical plaster objects.
Parameter identification and range restriction through sensitivity analysis for a high-temperature heat injection test
Authors: Heldt Stefan , Wang Bo , Bauer Sebastian
Published: May 2023

In order to compensate for the variable mismatch between heat demand and heat production from renewable sources or waste heat, high-temperature aquifer thermal energy storage (HT-ATES) is a promising option. A reliable prediction of the energetic performance as well as thermal and hydraulic impacts of a HT-ATES requires a suitable model parameterization regarding the subsurface properties. In order to identify the subsurface parameters on which investigation efforts should be focused, we carried out an extensive sensitivity analysis of the thermal and hydraulic parameters for a high-temperature heat injection test (HIT) using numerical modeling of the governing coupled thermo-hydraulic processes. The heat injection test was carried out in a quaternary shallow aquifer using injection temperatures of about 75 °C over 5 days, accompanied by an extensive temperature monitoring. The sensitivity analysis is conducted for parameter ranges based on literature values, based on site investigation at the HIT site and based on a model calibrated to the measured temperature distribution following the heat injection. Comparing the parameter ranges thus obtained in this three-step approach allows to identify those parameters, for which model prediction uncertainty decreased most, which are also the parameters, that strongly affect the thermal behavior. The highest sensitivity is found for vertical and horizontal hydraulic conductivity as well as for groundwater flow velocity, indicating that investigation efforts for HT-ATES projects should focus on these parameters. Heat capacity and thermal conductivity have a smaller impact on the temperature distribution. Our work thus yields a consistent approach to identifying the parameters which can be best restricted by field investigations and subsequent model calibration. Focusing on these during field investigations thus enable improved model predictions of both HT-ATES operation and induced impacts.
Effects of combinational mycelia obtained via in vitro culture on ageing and reproduction in Drosophila melanogaster and their mechanisms
Authors: Huang Yaqin , Li Jinzhe , Wang Dezhi , Zhu Nailiang , Qiao Xinrong
Published: May 2023

This research serves to investigate the effects of mycelium combinations obtained by in vitro culture of Amanita virgineoides Bas, Phallus rubicundus (Bosc) Fr., and Lepista nuda (Bull.) Cooke fruiting bodies on ageing and reproduction of Drosophila melanogaster and their underlying mechanisms. The ageing effect was most pronounced in the A. virgineoides + P. rubicundus combination group, with a maximum mortality rate of 18.33% at 6 h. The catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, as well as the transcripts of the longevity genes Nrf2 and Hep, were significantly downregulated to minima at 9 and 18 h, respectively. The malondialdehyde (MDA) content and transcripts of the signalling pathway-related genes Keap-1, TOR, and S6K as well as the longevity gene MTH were significantly upregulated to maximum levels. This corrected mortality reached 55.49%, with the lowest performance in terms of mean lifespan, maximal mean lifespan, median lethal time and flyability (15.00%) observed in the offspring at 24 h. In the group receiving a combination of A. virgineoides + P. rubicundus + L. nuda, the adult pupae quantity, adult fly quantity, and adult fly rate were the lowest at 14.33%, 4.00%, and 27.63%, respectively. In addition, the adult fly rate reached only 32.32% of that of the control group, and the highest aberration rate (47.78%) was also observed in the offspring. The mycelia of A. virgineoides, P. rubicundus, and L. nuda all demonstrated toxicity against D. melanogaster, and the combinations of different macrofungal mycelia had a synergistic effect regarding their toxicity. The data reported in the present study—particularly when using A. virgineoides and P. rubicundus with potential insecticidal activity against D. melanogaster—are novel.

Graphical Abstract
2D resistivity model around the rupture area of the 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake (Mw 9.0)
Authors: Ichihara Hiroshi , Kasaya Takafumi , Baba Kiyoshi , Goto Tada-nori , Yamano Makoto
Published: May 2023

The 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake (Mw 9.0) was characterized by a huge fault slip on the shallowest part of the plate interface, where fault behavior had been believed to be aseismic. In this study, we modeled the two-dimensional resistivity distribution across the slip area based on ocean-bottom electromagnetic measurements to understand the physical properties around the plate interface controlling fault rupture processes. The optimal 2D resistivity model showed a conductive area around the shallowest plate interface where the huge coseismic slip was observed, whereas the deeper plate interface where the fault rupture was nucleated was relatively more resistive. The shallowest plate interface was interpreted to have a high pore seawater fraction, whereas the deeper interface was interpreted as a dry area. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that aseismic frictional conditions changed to conditions enhancing fault rupture when the rupture propagated to the wet, clay-rich shallowest plate area. The optimal resistivity model also revealed a conductive area under the outer-rise area of the Pacific Plate. This finding supports the existence of a hydrated oceanic crust that supplied aqueous water to the subduction zone, including to the huge fault slip area.

Graphical Abstract
Negotiating filial care in transitions: an ethnographic study of family involvement in China’s nursing homes
Authors: Wu Xinyue
Published: May 2023

Based on ethnographic research conducted in two nursing homes in China, this article examines how institutional eldercare reshapes the expectations and practices of filial piety. It finds that families accept institutional care as a solution to the elderly care deficit. They expect a new division of care between labor and love, assigned to paid care workers and family members, respectively. This ideal of care division is rooted in the “intimate turn” in Chinese family life. Nevertheless, many family members go beyond this care division and remain deeply involved in nursing homes. On the one hand, adult children take on the responsibility to manage surrogate caretakers to improve the quality of care. On the other hand, they continue to provide personal care and companionship. Sharing family time is made the highest priority, especially in the face of impending death. This study goes beyond the binary division between commercial care and family care and sheds light on the transformation of filial piety in the commodification of eldercare in contemporary China.
Induction chemotherapy and hepatic artery embolization followed by extended resection for locally advanced gallbladder cancer: a case report
Authors: Takagi Chisato , Sato Michio , Tomita Masato , Sugita Atsushi , Tokuda Toshiki , Fujiwara Koki , Ando Nobutoshi
Published: May 2023

Background

Surgical resection plays a critical role in the curative therapy of patients with gallbladder cancer. However, extended resection for locally advanced gallbladder cancer is a controversial procedure because of the high operative morbidity, mortality, and poor prognosis after surgery, without consensus of its suitability. Several reports have described preoperative treatment modalities to reduce the risk of mortality and morbidity and improve the curability of surgery for locally advanced GBCA. However, only a few well-designed studies have verified the benefits of these preoperative strategies.

Case presentation

A 62-year-old male patient presented to our department with a gallbladder tumor detected on abdominal ultrasound during an annual medical checkup. Multi-phase enhanced CT revealed a gallbladder tumor with a maximum diameter of 34 mm, invading the right hepatic artery, pancreatic head, hepatic flexure of the colon, and first portion of the duodenum. We diagnosed gallbladder carcinoma as cT4 cN0 cM0 cStage IVA in the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) classification 8th edition. After administration of 12 cycles of gemcitabine and cisplatin plus S-1 regimen, tumor shrinkage was observed on computed tomography, and elevated serum CA19-9 levels were reduced to normal limits. After preoperative hepatic artery embolization, we performed gallbladder bed resection with pancreaticoduodenectomy (minor hepatopancreatoduodenectomy) and combined resection of the right hepatic artery and hepatic flexure of the colon. Histological examination revealed no evidence of lymph node metastasis (ypT4 ypN0 ycM0 yp Stage IVA in the 8th edition of the UICC). The proximal bile duct and dissected margins were negative.

Conclusions

The combination of induction chemotherapy and preoperative hepatic artery embolization, followed by minor hepatopancreatoduodenectomy and combined resection of the involved arteries and partial colon, could be a feasible treatment strategy for patients with locally advanced gallbladder cancer invading neighboring organs.
Farm management practices associated with influenza A virus contamination of people working in Midwestern United States swine farms
Authors: Lopez-Moreno Gustavo , Culhane Marie R. , Davies Peter , Corzo Cesar , Allerson Matthew W. , Torremorell Montserrat
Published: May 2023

Indirect transmission of influenza A virus (IAV) contributes to virus spread in pigs. To identify farm management activities with the ability to contaminate farmworkers’ hands and clothing that then could be a source of virus spread to other pigs, we conducted a within-farm, prospective IAV surveillance study. Hands and clothes from farmworkers performing the activities of piglet processing, vaccination, or weaning were sampled before and after the activities were performed. Samples were tested by IAV rRT-PCR and virus viability was assessed by cell culture. A multivariate generalized linear model was used to detect associations of the activities with IAV contamination. Of the samples collected for IAV rRT-PCR testing, there were 16% (12/76) collected immediately after processing, 96% (45/48) collected after vaccination, and 94% (29/31) collected after weaning that tested positive. Samples collected immediately after vaccination and weaning, i.e., activities that took place during the peri-weaning period when pigs were about 3 weeks of age, had almost 6 times higher risk of IAV detection and had more samples IAV positive (p-value < 0.0001) than samples collected after processing, i.e., an activity that took place in the first few days of life. Both, hands and clothes had similar contamination rates (46% and 55% respectively, p-value = 0.42) and viable virus was isolated from both. Our results indicate that activities that involve the handling of infected piglets close to weaning age represent a significant risk for IAV dissemination due to the high level of IAV contamination found in farmworkers’ hands and coveralls involved in the activities. Biosecurity protocols that include hand sanitation and changing clothing after performing activities with a high-risk of influenza contamination should be recommended to farmworkers to control and limit the mechanical spread of IAV between pigs.