bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trust the process? Hyloenergeism and biological processualism
Authors: Skrzypek Jeremy W.
Published: February 2023

In this paper, I propose a theory of living organisms that captures the insights of both traditional Aristotelian hylomorphism and John Dupré's “biological processualism”. Like traditional Aristotelian hylomorphism, the proposed theory understands material objects to be comprised of both matter and form. Unlike contemporary structural varieties of hylomorphism, however, it does not understand the form of a material object to be a relation, configuration, or structure exhibited by its parts but an activity or process in which its matter is continuously engaged. Following Mark Steen, I call the proposed theory “Hyloenergeism”. As a version of hylomorphism, hyloenergeism better captures the inherent dynamism of living organisms than contemporary structural approaches. And it does so not by abandoning the substantialist paradigm, as Dupré's biological processualism does, but by reconceptualizing the nature of material substances as possessing a processual core. Hyloenergeism, then, paves a middle way for those looking for a substance view of living organisms sensitive to the concerns raised by contemporary processualist philosophers of biology.
Examining how using dichotomous and partial credit scoring models influence sixth‐grade mathematical problem‐solving assessment outcomes
Authors: May Toni A. , Koskey Kristin L. K. , Bostic Jonathan D. , Stone Gregory E. , Kruse Lance M. , Matney Gabriel
Published: February 2023

Determining the most appropriate method of scoring an assessment is based on multiple factors, including the intended use of results, the assessment's purpose, and time constraints. Both the dichotomous and partial credit models have their advantages, yet direct comparisons of assessment outcomes from each method are not typical with constructed response items. The present study compared the impact of both scoring methods on the internal structure and consequential validity of a middle‐grades problem‐solving assessment called the problem solving measure for grade six (PSM6). After being scored both ways, Rasch dichotomous and partial credit analyses indicated similarly strong psychometric findings across models. Student outcome measures on the PSM6, scored both dichotomously and with partial credit, demonstrated strong, positive, significant correlation. Similar demographic patterns were noted regardless of scoring method. Both scoring methods produced similar results, suggesting that either would be appropriate to use with the PSM6.
Defining and validating the system is broken index
Authors: Young Clifford , Jackson Chris , Boyon Nicolas
Published: February 2023

Objective

: The aim of this article is to define and validate the “system is broken” index. The index measures anti‐establishment attitudes cross‐nationally.

Methods

: Using survey data from 25 countries, we test the reliability of the system is broken index and then demonstrate its convergent and divergent validity.

Results

: The results reveal that the system is broken index is a reliable and valid measure capturing perceptions that the political system, in any given country, is broken and is not working for the average person. The index predicts related attitudes (nativism and populism) and provides stable estimates of anti‐establishment attitudes over time.

Conclusions

: The system is broken index helps to predict the conditions that give rise to anti‐establishment candidates and populist movements. Tracking the measure across three decades provides unique insights into the challenges confronting contemporary politics, including the rise of populism movements.
Association between divisional location and short‐term outcome of liver mass resection in 124 dogs
Authors: Moore Vaughan W. , White Joanna , Marchevsky Andrew Malcolm
Published: February 2023

Objective

To evaluate the association between divisional location of liver masses on short‐term outcomes after surgical excision.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Client‐owned dogs (n = 124).

Methods

Records were reviewed for demographics, surgical findings, and outcomes. The associations between mass location and mortality, intraoperative complications, and postoperative complications were tested with multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Liver masses (124) were more common in the left (72) division than the central (34) and right (18) divisions. Median follow up was 286 (range: 14 to 2043) days. Intraoperative complications occurred in 14/124 dogs (11.3%) and postoperative complications in 35/122 dogs (28.7%). No association was detected between mass location and mortality in 8/124 dogs (6.5%). Postoperative complications were more likely if the incision extended to the thorax (P < .001), which was more common during resection of right divisional masses (P = .020). Postoperative complications were less likely when surgery was performed with a thoracoabdominal (TA) stapler (P = .005), by a specialist surgeon (P = .033), and in heavier dogs (P = .027). The odds of intraoperative complications were 19 times higher when surgery was performed without a TA stapler (P = .006). Intraoperative complications were less commonly associated with left (P = .007), but not central (P = .0504) divisional masses than right divisional masses.

Conclusion

Right divisional masses were prone to intraoperative but not postoperative complications.

Clinical significance

Clinicians should anticipate an increased risk of intraoperative complications when planning treatment of right divisional masses.
Reductions of triangulated categories and simple‐minded collections
Authors: Jin Haibo
Published: February 2023

Silting and Calabi–Yau reductions are important processes in representation theory to construct new triangulated categories from given ones, which are similar to Verdier quotient. In this paper, first we introduce a new reduction process of triangulated category, which is analogous to the silting (Calabi–Yau) reduction. For a triangulated category with a pre‐simple‐minded collection (pre‐SMC) , we construct a new triangulated category such that the SMCs in bijectively correspond to those in containing . Second, we give an analogue of Buchweitz's theorem for the singularity category of a SMC quadruple : the category can be realized as the stable category of an extriangulated subcategory of . Finally, we show the simple‐minded system (SMS) reduction due to Coelho Simões and Pauksztello is the shadow of our SMC reduction. This is parallel to the result that Calabi–Yau reduction is the shadow of silting reduction due to Iyama and Yang.
Space Launch System acoustics: Far-field noise measurements of the Artemis-I launch
Authors: Gee Kent L. , Hart Grant W. , Cunningham Carson F. , Anderson Mark C. , Bassett Michael S. , Mathews Logan T. , Durrant J. Taggart , Moats Levi T. , Coyle Whitney L. , Kellison Makayle S. , Kuffskie Margaret J.
Published: February 2023

To improve understanding of super heavy-lift rocket acoustics, this letter documents initial findings from noise measurements during liftoff of the Space Launch System's Artemis-I mission. Overall sound pressure levels, waveform characteristics, and spectra are described at distances ranging from 1.5 to 5.2 km. Significant results include: (a) the solid rocket boosters' ignition overpressure is particularly intense in the direction of the pad flame trench exit; (b) post-liftoff maximum overall levels range from 127 to 136 dB, greater than pre-launch predictions; and (c) the average maximum one-third-octave spectral peak occurred at 20 Hz, causing significant deviation between flat and A-weighted levels.
Escherichia coli Leucine-Responsive Regulatory Protein Bridges DNA
In Vivo
and Tunably Dissociates in the Presence of Exogenous Leucine
Authors: Ziegler Christine A. , Freddolino Lydia
Published: February 2023

Leucine-responsive regulatory protein (Lrp) is one of the most impactful regulators in
E. coli
and other bacteria. Lrp senses nutrient conditions and responds by controlling strategies for virulence, cellular motility, and nutrient acquisition.
Marine Fungi Select and Transport Aerobic and Anaerobic Bacterial Populations from Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Sediments
Authors: Álvarez-Barragán Joyce , Cravo-Laureau Cristiana , Xiong Bijing , Wick Lukas Y. , Duran Robert
Published: February 2023

The study provides advances for understanding fungal-bacterial relationships, particularly on the selection and dispersion of bacterial communities by fungi, which are crucial for the organization of microbial communities and their functioning in coastal PAH-contaminated sediments. The transportation of bacteria via fungal hyphae (fungal highway) results in bacterial selection; in particular, fungal hyphae offer adequate conditions for the transport of both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria through hydrophobic patches for the colonization of novel niches.
Genetic Ablation of a Female-Specific Apetala 2 Transcription Factor Blocks Oocyst Shedding in Cryptosporidium parvum
Authors: Tandel Jayesh , Walzer Katelyn A. , Byerly Jessica H. , Pinkston Brittain , Beiting Daniel P. , Striepen Boris
Published: February 2023

The parasite
Cryptosporidium
infects millions of people worldwide each year, leading to life-threatening diarrheal disease in young children and immunosuppressed individuals. There is no vaccine and only limited treatment.
Strategy To Assess Zoonotic Potential Reveals Low Risk Posed by SARS-Related Coronaviruses from Bat and Pangolin
Authors: Yang Yong , Shen Xu-Rui , Zhang Yu-Lan , Jiang Ren-di , Wang Xi , Guan Zhen-Qiong , Li Qian , Yao Yu-Lin , Gong Qian-chun , Geng Rong , Wang Qi , Zhu Yan , Luo Jing-Yi , Shi Zheng-Li , Zhang Hui-lan , Peng Ke , Zhou Peng
Published: February 2023

Evaluation of the zoonotic risk of animal SARSr-CoVs is important for future disease preparedness. However, there are misconceptions regarding the risk of animal viruses.
Amino Acid Availability Determines Plant Immune Homeostasis in the Rhizosphere Microbiome
Authors: Liu Yang , Wilson Andrew J. , Han Jiatong , Hui Alisa , O’Sullivan Lucy , Huan Tao , Haney Cara H.
Published: February 2023

Understanding how microbiota evade and suppress host immunity is critical to our knowledge of how beneficial microbes persist in association with a host. Prior work has shown that secretion of organic acids by beneficial microbes is sufficient to suppress plant immunity.
Draft Genome Sequence of Streptomyces malaysiensis TY049-057, a Potential Heavy Metal-Tolerant Strain Recovered from Tin Tailings
Authors: Govender Hema Thopla , Krishnasamy Getha , Jani Jaeyres , Husin Lili Sahira
Published: February 2023

Streptomyces malaysiensis
strain TY049-057 was isolated from a former tin-mining area in Bidor (Perak, Malaysia). Here, we report a draft genome sequence of
S. malaysiensis
strain TY049-057, with an estimated size of 2.7 Mb.
Genome Sequence of the Attenuated Equid Alphaherpesvirus 1 Strain AK-2011, Isolated in Kazakhstan
Authors: Karamendin Kobey , Abishov Abdikalyk , Kydyrmanov Aidyn , Akhmetzhanova Moldir
Published: February 2023

In 2011, there was an outbreak of a disease with mass abortions among horses in southeastern Kazakhstan. The AK-2011 strain was isolated from an aborted fetus and subsequently identified as equid alphaherpesvirus 1. Here, we describe the nearly complete genome sequence of the AK-2011 strain, attenuated for vaccine development.
Metatranscriptomic Sequencing Reveals Host Species as an Important Factor Shaping the Mosquito Virome
Authors: Li Cixiu , Liu Shuqi , Zhou Hong , Zhu Wei , Cui Mingxue , Li Juan , Wang Jiao , Liu Jiangyun , Zhu Jin , Li Weiping , Bi Yuhai , Carr Michael J. , Holmes Edward C. , Shi Weifeng
Published: February 2023

This study revealed the huge capability of mosquitoes in harboring a rich diversity of RNA viruses, although relevant studies have characterized the intensively unparalleled diversity of RNA viruses previously. Furthermore, our findings showed discernible differences not only in viromic structure between mosquito genera and even between mosquito species within the same genus but also in the genetic diversity and abundance of
Wolbachia
between different mosquito populations.
Validation of a Reporter Cell Line for Flavivirus Inhibition Assays
Authors: Rezende Tatiana M. T. , Macera Gabriella , Heyndrickx Leo , Michiels Johan , Coppens Sandra , Thibaut Hendrik Jan , Dallmeier Kai , Van Esbroeck Marjan , Neyts Johan , Ariën Kevin K. , Bartholomeeusen Koen
Published: February 2023

The Hec1a-IFNB-Luc reporter cell line allows the detection of all 10 flaviviruses tested, including the 4 dengue virus serotypes. Its use for serodiagnostic purposes, measuring neutralizing antibody activity in sera, and the assessment of the antiviral activities of small-molecule compounds was confirmed, and it was found to be comparable to clinically applied assays.
Mixed-methods study on pharmacies as contraception providers to Kenyan young people: who uses them and why?
Authors: Gonsalves Lianne , Wyss Kaspar , Cresswell Jenny A , Waithaka Michael , Gichangi Peter , Martin Hilber Adriane
Published: February 2023

Objectives

This study sought to answer two questions: (1) what are the characteristics of young Kenyans aged 18–24 who use contraception obtained at pharmacies, and (2) why are pharmacies appealing sources of contraception?

Design and setting

This was a mixed-methods study in one peri-urban part of Kwale County, Kenya. Methods included cross-sectional survey (n=740), six focus group discussions, 18 in-depth interviews and 25 key-informant interviews. Quantitative data analysis identified factors pushing young people to pharmacies for modern contraception versus other sources. Qualitative data analysis identified reasons pharmacies were perceived to be appealing to young clients.

Participants

Participants were (1) young people aged 18–24 from the study area, including a subset who had recently purchased contraception from a pharmacy; or (2) pharmacy personnel and pharmacy stakeholders.

Results

Among surveyed participants who had ever had sexual intercourse and had used modern contraception at last sexual intercourse, 59% obtained it from a pharmacy. In multivariable analysis, participants who used a condom or emergency contraception as well as those living alone were significantly more likely to get contraception from pharmacies. Pharmacies were valued for their convenience, privacy, non-judgmental and personable staff, service speed, as well as predictable and affordable prices.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate a high percentage of young people in Coastal Kenya use pharmacies for contraception. Our inclusion of emergency contraception users partially explains this. Pharmacies were perceived to be everything that health facilities are not: fast, private and non-limiting. Policy-makers should recognise the role of pharmacies as contraception providers and look for opportunities to link pharmacies to the public health system. This would create a network of accessible and appealing contraception services for young people.
Metabolomics for prediction of hypertension in pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Mayrink Jussara , Leite Debora Farias Batista , Costa Maria Laura , Cecatti Jose Guilherme
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Hypertension is a very important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide, despite efforts on prevention. The lack of a tool to provide effective and early prediction of hypertension for a high-risk group may contribute to improving maternal and fetal outcomes. Metabolomics has figured out as a promised technology to contribute to the improvement of hypertension in pregnancy prediction.

Methods and analysis

Our primary outcome is hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. A detailed systematic literature search will be performed in electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Latin America and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Health Technology Assessment and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects using controlled terms ‘pre-eclampsia’, ‘hypertensive disorders’, ‘metabolomics’ and ‘prediction’ (and their variations). Studies from the latest 20 years will be included, except case reports, reviews, cross-sectional studies, letter to editors, expert opinions, commentaries papers or non-human research. If possible, we will perform a meta-analysis. Two peer-reviewers will independently perform the search and in cases of discordance, a third reviewer will be consulted.

Ethics and dissemination

As a systematic review, ethics approval is not required. The results of this review will present the current use and performance of metabolomics for predicting gestational hypertension. Such data could potentially guide future studies and interventions to improve existing prediction models.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018097409.
Urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) and female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) in Cameroon: an observational assessment of key reproductive health determinants of girls and women in the Matta Health Area
Authors: Makia Christine Masong , Fesuh Nono Betrand , Amabo Elvis Ngwa , Gamba Victoria A , Oluwole Akinola Stephen , Stothard Russell
Published: February 2023

Objectives and setting

Across sub-Saharan Africa, urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS), in particular female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), is a significant waterborne parasitic disease, with its direct burden on the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of sufferers infrequently measured. UGS has an established control plan, which in most endemic regions as in Cameroon, still excludes FGS considerations. Highlighting existent associations between UGS and FGS could increase the management of FGS within UGS interventions. This study seeks to identify current associations among FGS and UGS with some reproductive health indicators, to provide formative information for better integrated control.

Participants

304 females aged 5–69 years were all examined for UGS by urine filtration and microscopy. Among these, 193 women and girls were eligible for clinical FGS assessment based on age (>13). After selective questioning for FGS symptoms, a subgroup of 67 women and girls consented for clinical examination for FGS using portable colposcopy, with observed sequelae classified according to the WHO FGS pocket atlas.

Outcome

Overall UGS and FGS prevalence was measured, with FGS-related/UGS-related reproductive health symptoms recorded. Associations between FGS and UGS were investigated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Overall UGS prevalence was 63.8% (194/304), where FGS prevalence (subgroup) was 50.7% (34/67). FGS manifestation increased significantly with increasing age, while a significant decrease with ascending age was observed for UGS. Lower abdominal pain (LAP) vaginal itches (VI) and coital pain (CP) were identified as the main significant shared symptoms of both FGS and UGS, while LAP with menstrual irregularity (MI) appeared a strong symptomatic indicator for FGS.

Conclusion

LAP, MI, CP and VI are the potential SRH indicators that could be exploited in future for targeting of praziquantel provision to FGS sufferers within primary care, complementary with existing praziquantel distribution for UGS sufferers inSchistosoma haematobiumendemic areas.
Investigation of the feasibility and acceptability of a school-based intervention for children with traits of ADHD: protocol for an iterative case-series study
Authors: Russell Abigail Emma , Dunn Barney , Hayes Rachel , Moore Darren , Kidger Judi , Sonuga-Barke Edmund , Pfiffner Linda , Ford Tamsin
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent and impairing cluster of traits affecting 2%–5% of children. These children are at risk of negative health, social and educational outcomes and often experience severe difficulties at school, so effective psychosocial interventions are needed. There is mixed evidence for existing school-based interventions for ADHD, which are complex and resource-intensive, contradicting teachers’ preferences for short, flexible strategies that suit a range of ADHD-related classroom-based problems. They are also poorly evaluated. In this study, a prototype intervention comprising a digital ‘toolkit’ of behavioural strategies will be tested and refined. We aim to refine the prototype so that its use is feasible and acceptable within school settings, and to establish whether a future definitive, appropriately powered, trial of effectiveness is feasible. This novel iterative study aims to pre-emptively address implementation and evaluation challenges that have hampered previous randomised controlled trials of non-pharmacological interventions.

Methods and analysis

A randomised iterative mixed-methods case-series design will be used. Schools will be randomised to the time (school term) they implement the toolkit. Eight primary schools and 16–32 children with impairing traits of ADHD will participate, along with school staff and parents. The toolkit will be refined after each term, or more frequently if needed. Small, theory-based and data driven changes hypothesised as relevant across school contexts will be made, as well as reactive changes addressing implementation barriers. Feasibility and acceptability will be assessed through quantitative and qualitative data collection and analyses in relation to study continuation criteria, and ADHD symptoms and classroom functioning will be tracked and visually evaluated to assess whether there are early indications of toolkit utility.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained. Results will be presented in journal articles, conferences and through varied forms of media to reach policymakers, stakeholders and the public.
Frequency and distribution of ABO and Rh blood group systems among blood donors at the Northern Zone Blood Transfusion Center in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Vuhahula Edda A M , Yahaya James , Morgan Emmanuel D , Othieno Emmanuel , Mollel Edson , Mremi Alex
Published: February 2023

Objectives

ABO and Rh blood group systems are the major factors affecting the blood transfusion safety. The frequency and distribution of these blood group systems vary worldwide. We aimed to determine the frequency and distribution of ABO and Rh blood group systems among first-time blood donors at the Northern Zone Blood Transfusion Center in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

Design

Cross-sectional descriptive population-based study.

Setting

Data on ABO and Rh blood group systems were obtained and analysed from the Northern Zone Blood Transfusion Center among first-time blood donors.

Participants

There were 65 535 first-time blood donors aged 15–55 years who donated at the Northern Zone Blood Transfusion Center from January 2017 to December 2019.

Outcome measures

The percentage of ABO and Rh blood group systems among different categories of blood donors was calculated.

Results

Retrospective data from Blood Establishment Computer System of 65 535 first-time blood donors were analysed in the present study. The mean age of the blood donors was 30.6±11.2 years (range: 15–55 years). The vast majority of the blood donors 84.2% (n=55 210) were men. Also, the majority 69.6% (n=45 595) were aged ≥35 years. Blood group O was the most common blood group which was found in over half 52.4% (n=34 333) of the blood donors and majority 95.3% (n=62 461) of the donors were Rh positive. Moreover, the majority 78.3% (n=51 336) were voluntary donors and the remaining 21.7% (n=14 199) were replacement donors.

Conclusion

Majority of the donors had blood group O and also the vast majority of the donors were Rh positive. Considering the large size of our study population, this has provided a more comprehensive information regarding the frequency and patterns of ABO and Rh blood group systems in Tanzania. The observed association of blood group A with one of the regions from which donors were coming from, is intriguing and further studies may confirm possible related genetic evolution.
Exploring the interface between adolescent dysmenorrhoea and endometriosis: a protocol for a cohort and nested case–control study within the QResearch Database
Authors: Dixon Sharon , Ranger Tom A , Burchardt Judith , Patone Martina , Snelling Andrew JHL , Vincent Katy , Hippisley-Cox Julia
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Dysmenorrhoea affects up to 70%–91% of adolescents who menstruate, with approximately one-third experiencing severe symptoms with impacts on education, work and leisure. Dysmenorrhoea can occur without identifiable pathology, but can indicate underlying conditions, including congenital genital tract anomalies or endometriosis. There is a need for evidence about the management and incidence of dysmenorrhoea in primary care, the impact of treatments in adolescence on long-term outcomes and when to consider the possibility of endometriosis in adolescence.

Methods and analysis

This study aims to improve the evidence base for adolescents presenting to primary care with dysmenorrhoea. It comprises three interlinked studies. Using the QResearch Database, the study population includes all female at birth participants aged 10–19 years any time between 1 January 2000 and 30 June 2021. We will undertake (1) a descriptive study documenting the prevalence of coded dysmenorrhoea in primary care, stratified by demographic variables, reported using descriptive statistics; (2) a prospective open cohort study following an index cohort of all adolescents recorded as attending primary care with dysmenorrhoea and a comparator cohort of five times as many who have not, to determine the HR for a diagnosis of endometriosis, adenomyosis, ongoing menstrual pain or subfertility (considered singly and in combination) anytime during the study period; and (3) a nested case–control study for adolescents diagnosed with endometriosis, using conditional logistic regression, to determine the OR for symptom(s) preceding this diagnosis.

Ethics and dissemination

The project has been independently peer reviewed and received ethics approval from the QResearch Scientific Board (reference OX46 under REC 18/EM/0400).

In addition to publication in peer-reviewed academic journals, we will use the combined findings to generate a resource and infographic to support shared decision-making about dysmenorrhoea in community health settings. Additionally, the findings will be used to inform a subsequent qualitative study, exploring adolescents’ experiences of menstrual pain.
Interventions to reintroduce or increase assisted vaginal births: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Torloni Maria Regina , Opiyo Newton , Altieri Elena , Sobhy Soha , Thangaratinam Shakila , Nolens Barbara , Geelhoed Diederike , Betran Ana Pilar
Published: February 2023

Objective

To synthesise the evidence from studies that implemented interventions to increase/reintroduce the use of assisted vaginal births (AVB).

Design

Systematic review.

Eligibility criteria

We included experimental, semi-experimental and observational studies that reported any intervention to reintroduce/increase AVB use.

Data sources

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILACS, Scopus, Cochrane, WHO Library, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO.int/ictrp through September 2021.

Risk of bias

For trials, we used the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care tool; for other designs we used Risk of Bias for Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions.

Data extraction and synthesis

Due to heterogeneity in interventions, we did not conduct meta-analyses. We present data descriptively, grouping studies according to settings: high-income countries (HICs) or low/middle-income countries (LMICs). We classified direction of intervention effects as (a) statistically significant increase or decrease, (b) no statistically significant change or (c) statistical significance not reported in primary study. We provide qualitative syntheses of the main barriers and enablers for success of the intervention.

Results

We included 16 studies (10 from LMICs), mostly of low or moderate methodological quality, which described interventions with various components (eg, didactic sessions, simulation, hands-on training, guidelines, audit/feedback). All HICs studies described isolated initiatives to increase AVB use; 9/10 LMIC studies tested initiatives to increase AVB use as part of larger multicomponent interventions to improve maternal/perinatal healthcare. No study assessed women’s views or designed interventions using behavioural theories. Overall, interventions were less successful in LMICs than in HICs. Increase in AVB use was not associated with significant increase in adverse maternal or perinatal outcomes. The main barriers to the successful implementation of the initiatives were related to staff and hospital environment.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to indicate which intervention, or combination of interventions, is more effective to safely increase AVB use. More research is needed, especially in LMICs, including studies that design interventions taking into account theories of behaviour change.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020215224.
Basilar tip morphology: impact on mechanical thrombectomy for acute distal basilar artery occlusion
Authors: Baik Sung Hyun , Jung Cheolkyu , Kim Byung Moon , Kim Dong Joon
Published: February 2023

Background

The morphology of the basilar artery tip (BAT) varies between patients. The morphologic anatomy of the BAT could affect the efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy (MT).

Methods

108 patients with acute distal basilar artery occlusion (dBAO) who underwent MT from January 2013 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. These patients were divided into two groups based on their BAT morphology: those with symmetrical cranial or caudal fusion of the BAT (symmetric group) and those with asymmetrical fusion of the BAT (asymmetric group). Morphological variables and angiographic and clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

Of the 108 enrolled patients, 42 were in the asymmetric group. Compared with the symmetric group, the asymmetric group had significantly larger BAT diameter (mean 3.5±1.0 mm vs 4.3±1.1 mm, P=0.001) and basilar artery tip/trunk ratio (1.2±0.2 vs 1.7±0.2, P<0.001). The asymmetric group showed a significantly lower rate of complete reperfusion (71.2% vs 40.5%, P=0.002) and first pass effect (FPE) (51.5% vs 21.4%, P=0.002) than the symmetric group. The BAT asymmetry was an independent predictor of failed FPE (OR 0.299, 95% CI 0.098 to 0.918, P=0.035) and failed complete reperfusion (OR 0.275, 95% CI 0.087 to 0.873, P=0.029).

Conclusions

The efficacy of MT for dBAO differs according to the anatomic morphology of the BAT. The asymmetric BAT was frequently encountered in dBAO patients and was independently associated with a reduced likelihood of complete reperfusion and FPE.
Meeting report: the ALPHA project: a stakeholder meeting on lupus clinical trial outcome measures and the patient perspective
Authors: Buie Joy , Bloch Lauren , Morand Eric F , van Vollenhoven Ronald F , Werth Victoria P , Touma Zahi , Lipsky Peter , Kalunian Kenneth , Askanase Anca D , Ines L , Reed Christopher , Son MaryBeth , Franson Timothy , Costenbader Karen , Schanberg Laura Eve
Published: February 2023

Drug development in lupus has improved over the past 10 years but still lags behind that of other rheumatic disease areas. Assessment of prospective lupus therapies in clinical trials has proved challenging for reasons that are multifactorial including the heterogeneity of the disease, study design limitations and a lack of validated biomarkers which greatly impacts regulatory decision-making. Moreover, most composite outcome measures currently used in trials do not include patient-reported outcomes. Given these factors, the Addressing Lupus Pillars for Health Advancement Global Advisory Committee members who serve on the drug development team identified an opportunity to convene a meeting to facilitate information sharing on completed and existing outcome measure development efforts. This meeting report highlights information presented during the meeting as well as a discussion on how the lupus community may work together with regulatory agencies to simplify and standardise outcome measures to accelerate development of lupus therapeutics.
Ethical tensions in delivering Defence Engagement (Health)
Authors: Bricknell Martin , Kelly J
Published: February 2023

This paper considers the potential ethical tensions in the conduct of Defence Engagement (Health) (DE(H)) activities. Multiple academic papers have described the ethical dimensions of topics such as ‘medical rules of eligibility’, cultural differences in clinical behaviour when providing mentoring support to military health professions, MEDCAPS (non-emergency primary care clinics by international military medical personnel direct to the indigenous civilian population) and military medical collaboration with the civilian public health system and humanitarian organisations. After a short summary of principles and perspectives in military healthcare ethics (MHE), this paper considers the ethical risks of DE(H) activities at the strategic, operational and tactical level. The paper closes by discussing how to prepare military healthcare personnel for ethical challenges during DE(H) tasks. This includes considering the wider legal, professional, societal and public health perspectives alongside clinical perspectives in the analysis of an MHE issue. In conclusion, potential MHE issues during DE(H) activities are predictable and personnel should be trained to identify and address them. This paper forms part of a special issue of BMJ Military Health dedicated to Defence Healthcare Engagement.
Occurrence and relative risks for non-vertebral fractures in patients with ankylosing spondylitis compared with the general population: a register-based study from Sweden
Authors: Bengtsson Karin , Askling Johan , Lorentzon Mattias , Rosengren Björn , Deminger Anna , Klingberg Eva , Jacobsson Lennart , Forsblad-d'Elia Helena
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To estimate the incidence of non-vertebral fractures in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) compared with the general population.

Methods

Nationwide register-based cohort study including patients with AS (n=11 611, 65% men, mean age 48 years), and matched general population controls (n=58 050). Five prespecified fracture outcomes: (1) non-vertebral; (2) fracture of the proximal humerus, distal forearm or hip; (3) proximal humerus; (4) distal forearm and (5) hip) were identified through register linkages with follow-up 2007–2016. We used Poisson regression to calculate incidence rates (IRs), number of fractures per 1000 person-years at risk and IR ratios (IRRs), overall and by sex and age. IRRs were adjusted for history of any prior fracture.

Results

IRs (men/women) for non-vertebral fracture in AS were 11.9 (95% CI 11.0 to 12.9)/14.5 (95% CI 13.1 to 16.1) and in controls 10.0 (95% CI 9.7 to 10.4)/11.8 (95% CI 11.1 to 12.4), IRR (men/women) 1.2 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.3)/1.2 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.4). IRs (men/women) for fractures of the humerus, forearm or hip in AS were 4.0 (95% CI 3.5 to 4.6)/6.3 (95% CI 5.4 to 7.3) and in controls 2.7 (95% CI 2.5 to 2.9)/5.5 (95% CI 5.1 to 6.0), IRR (men/women) 1.5 (95% CI 1.3 to 1.7)/1.1 (95% CI 0.9 to 1.3). IRRs were statistically significantly elevated in men with AS versus controls for forearm fracture (1.4 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.7)) and hip fracture (1.8 (95% CI 1.4 to 2.3)), whereas not in women with AS where the IRRs were 1.1 (95% CI 0.9 to 1.4) and 1.0 (95% CI 0.6 to 1.4). For humerus fracture, IRRs were 1.4 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.9) in men with AS versus controls and 1.1 (95% CI 0.8 to 1.6) in women.

Conclusions

Both men and women with AS have a slightly higher risk of non-vertebral fractures than the general population. A statistically significantly higher risk of fractures of the proximal humerus, distal forearm or hip was found in men with AS in comparison to general population, where the relative risk was especially pronounced for hip fracture.
Assessing in vitro anti-cancer efficacy of sulfonated water-soluble phthalocyanine on breast and prostate cancer cells
Authors: Ozkan Asuman Deveci , Betts Zeynep , Yuksel Burcu , Alimudin Janiah , Aydin Duygu , Guzel Emre
Published: February 2023

Since cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, the development of new anticancer drugs has become important. Phthalocyanines (Pcs) as anticancer agents have attracted particular attention in recent years. Especially water-soluble sulfonated phthalocyanines have been used consistently for both the diagnosis and treatment of many different types of cancer, such as small lung tumors. Motivated by these facts, since the anti-cancer activity of sulfonated water-soluble cobalt phthalocyanine in prostate and breast cancer without photoactivation is not known before, we aimed to investigate the in vitro anti-cancer effectiveness (cyto- and genotoxic effect) of alpha-substituted water-soluble cobalt phthalocyanine (WS-CoPc) complex on prostate and breast cancer cells for the first time. For this purpose ROS production, cell death, and DNA damage levels, changes in nuclear and cell morphology, and the expression of apoptosis and ROS-related genes were determined. WS-CoPc exhibited anti-cancer effects with cytotoxic and genotoxic features in both prostate and breast cancer cells also the anti-cancer efficacy is more prominent in prostate cancer cells. Therefore our results demonstrated that this Pc has high cytotoxic and genotoxic effects, especially in prostate cancer cells in vitro and further studies are needed to reveal the current anticancer potential of this Pc without photoactivation.
Energy-Efficiency versus Carbon-Efficiency
Authors: Shenoy Prashant
Published: February 2023

Improving the energy-efficiency of computing systems has been the focus of computer science research for many decades. In the data center domain, for example, there has been an intense focus on improving energy efficiency by improving the Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of data centers. Other domains such as civil and mechanical engineering have also focused on improving the energy efficiency of built environments such as buildings. More recently, there has been an increased emphasis on sustainability on the human-built infrastructure of various kinds motivated by climate change, which has resulted in an emphasis on reducing carbon emissions of such infrastructure by optimizing their carbon efficiency.
SIGCSE Board DEIA Update
Authors: Clear Alison
Published: February 2023

The SIGCSE Board remains committed to developing ways forward to ensure the dignity and respect of all members of the SIGCSE community. We will shortly be releasing a statement that covers short-term and long-term strategies and policies to help make SIGCSE a more self-aware and inclusive community. We are continuing to work on the content of this statement so keep a look out on the website, the members list and the next Bulletin.
From the Editor-in-Chief
Authors: Gorla Daniele
Published: February 2023

With this issue, SIGLOG News reaches its 10th volume. Since its birth in 2014, it has been leaded by Andrzej Murawski; together with the SIGLOG Executive Committee, he created this publication and, with great efforts and the support of the Tecnhical Column Editors, he developed it up to now. Andrzej has now been elected vice-chair of SIGLOG and left his rôle of SIGLOG News Editor. I thank the Executive Committee for appointing me as the new Editor-in-Chief and Andrzej for the wonderful work done so far; it is a great challenge for me to take his place!
How Do Vehicles Make Decisions during Implementation Period of Discretionary Lane Change? A Data-Driven Research
Authors: Shen Qiangru , Ni Yujie , Cao Hui , Qian Wangping , Li Gen
Published: February 2023

To investigate and compare the lane changing behavior of passenger cars and heavy vehicles during the implementation period (defined as the interval from the start time to the end time of a lane change maneuver), this study applies the gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) method to model the lane changing behavior of heavy vehicles and passenger cars, respectively. Results show that the lane change models vary with the vehicle types and lane change directions. Different factors are considered by the drivers of passenger cars and heavy vehicles when implementing lane changes to different directions. Partial dependence plots of GBDT models reveal that the influence of independent variables on lane changing behavior is nonlinear and complicated, which means that the same variable leads to various effects on the lane change decision across different vehicle types and lane change directions. In contrast with other state-of-the-art methods, the proposed method can obtain more accurate results. The findings indicate that it is necessary to build specific lane change models based on vehicle types and lane change directions for microscopic traffic simulators and autonomous vehicles.
Motivational Climate Effect on the Development of Anxiety and Body Image in Education Students: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Melguizo-Ibáñez Eduardo , González-Valero Gabriel , Badicu Georgian , Saemi Esmaeel , Puertas-Molero Pilar
Published: February 2023

Motivation is one of the key factors affecting the achievement of a specific task. Therefore, the present research aims to identify and establish the existing relationships between sport motivation, the anxiety‐related disorder, and the own body perception, divided into (a) developing an explanatory model of the motivational climate towards sport and its relationship with anxiety and physical self‐concept and (b) contrasting the structural model through a multigroup analysis according to sex. A descriptive, nonexperimental (ex post facto), and cross‐sectional study of young university students was carried out. The Perceived Motivational Climate Questionnaire for Sport (PMCSQ‐2), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and the Self‐Concept Form 5 (AF‐5) were used for data collection. The data reveal that males show higher scores in all the variables that make up the ego climate and in the physical self‐concept, while females show higher scores in the variables that make up the task climate and higher levels of anxiety.
Deciphering the Role of Melatonin-Related Signatures in Tumor Immunity and the Prognosis of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Aimin , Cai Chen , Yang Yiren , Cui Yankang , Liu Wenqiang , Pang Qingyang , Wu Zhenjie , Liu Bing , Qu Le , Luo Peng , Wang Anbang , Wang Linhui
Published: February 2023

Rationale. Recent research has suggested that melatonin-related regulators play crucial roles in solid cancers and may be new targets for cancers. However, the characteristics and roles of melatonin modulators in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) remain largely unknown. Methods. Adopting multiomics data from TCGA and other public datasets, we analysed the expression, mutation, and prognostic evaluation in multiple cancers. ccRCC patients were categorized into two subgroups by an unsupervised cluster algorithm: melatonin-pattern cancer subtype 1 (MPCS1) and subtype 2 (MPCS2). We then explored the immune microenvironment, immune therapy response, and tumor metabolic pathways between the two subtypes. The clinical characteristics, genomic mutation landscape, and molecular inhibitor response were further investigated. Finally, a melatonin regulator-related prognostic model was constructed to predict patient prognosis in ccRCC. Results. We found that melatonin regulators were dysregulated depending on distinct cancer types, which were associated with genomic variation. The two subtypes indicated different clinical characteristics and biological processes in ccRCC. MPCS2, an aggressive subtype, led an advanced clinical stage and poorer survival of ccRCC patients. The activated oncogenic signaling pathway and metabolic signatures were responsible for cancer progression in the MPCS2 subtype. The MPCS2 subgroup suggested a higher tumor mutational burden and immune dysfunction state, resulting in a lower response to immunotherapy. The copy number variations of MPCS2 were significantly more frequent than those of MPCS1. In addition, the two subgroups exhibited distinct drug responsiveness, with MPCS2 being less responsive to multiple drugs. Finally, we established a subtype biomarker-based prognostic risk model that exhibited satisfactory performance in ccRCC patients. Conclusion. Melatonin regulator-related features could remodel functional pathways and the tumor immune microenvironment through genomic mutations and pathway regulation. Melatonin regulator-associated molecular subtypes enhance the understanding of the molecular characteristics of renal cancer and can guide clinical treatment. Activating the melatonergic system axis may improve the effect of immunotherapy for ccRCC.
High-Output Wearable Flow Ring-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator via Opposite Charging Intermediate Layer
Authors: Chung Seh-Hoon , Jang Yu Ha , Kim Dongchang , Lee Joon-seok , Kim Sunghan , Park Joong Yull , Hong Jinkee , Lee Sangmin
Published: February 2023

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is one of the emerging energy harvesting technologies with the potential to be an alternative energy source. Owing to the various advantages of TENG, such as low cost, simple design, and high applicability, several researchers reported wearable TENG devices that can power electronics by harvesting human motion. However, as the human body has limited movement, the existing wearable TENG devices can only generate low power to turn on the electronics. In this study, a flow ring-based TENG (FR-TENG) is fabricated, which can be applied to wearable devices to generate high voltage and current output by including an opposite charging intermediate layer. By the simulation and experimental results, FR-TENG is optimized to generate a high output, that is, peak open-circuit voltage and closed-circuit current of up to 1020 V and 260 mA, respectively, owing to the electrostatic discharge. By these results, sleeve-type wearable FR-TENG is fabricated which can effectively harvest energy from arm movement. The sleeve-type FR-TENG can generate a high output owing to the working mechanism of FR-TENG; the high output was used to turn on 200 LEDs.
Soccer and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Warming Nikolaj , Andersen Stephanie Balslev , Hougaard Dan Dupont
Published: February 2023

Introduction. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo among adults. The etiology of BPPV is unknown in approximately 50 percent of cases. This condition is also termed primary BPPV, if the etiology is unknown, and secondary BPPV if patients have identified predisposing factors. A few studies suggest that there is a correlation between the development of BPPV and specific sports. Case Report. A 19-year-old male presented with recurrent episodes of vertigo during soccer play. Eight months prior to referral, the patient was involved in a car accident with a mild head trauma. The patient was later diagnosed with BPPV several times. Discussion. Soccer might be a plausible BPPV trigger, especially if there is a prehistory of head trauma. This is most likely due to the demands of the game such as the change of directions, repetitive head impacts (headers or head collisions), accelerations/decelerations, jumps, foot landings, and rapid head movements.