bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ranking Research Methodology by Risk — a cross-sectional study to determine the opinion of research ethics committee members
Authors: Kolstoe Simon E. , Durning Jennifer , Yost Jennifer , Aleksandrova-Yankulovska Silviya
Published: September 2023

Background

When reviewing a protocol, research ethics committees (RECs, equivalent to institutional review boards — IRBs) have the responsibility to consider whether the proposed research is justified. If research is not justified, it can waste participants’ time, researchers’ time and resources. As RECs are not constituted to cover all areas of scientific or academic expertise, it can be difficult for RECs to decide whether research is scientifically or methodologically justified especially in the absence of authoritative (often in the form of systematic) reviews. Where such reviews are absent, some have argued that RECs should insist on a new review of existing evidence as a condition of the REC favourable opinion. However, as RECs review a wide range of research, such requests must be proportionate to the type, and extent, of proposed projects. Risk is one factor that may influence the extent of evidence need for a REC to determine that the new project is justified, but not the only factor. The aim of the work described here was to determine whether REC members and researchers specifically link risk to the type of research methodology, and if so, whether this link could be used to help guide the need for systematic, or other, types of reviews.

Method

We conducted a cross-sectional study, gathering data between November 2020 and January 2021, to examine whether proposed research methodologies impact how RECs perceive risk to participants. We presented 31 research methodologies to REC members and researchers in the form of an international survey.

Results

We collected 283 responses that included both qualitative and quantitative data as to how research methodology impacts perceptions of risk to participants. We used the data to conclude that RECs did see a link between risk and type of research. We therefore constructed a hierarchy of risk with Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials, and clinical psychology/psychiatry intervention studies, at the top (i.e. viewed as most risky).

Conclusions

We discuss whether this hierarchy is useful for guiding RECs as to the level of scientific justification that they should seek when reviewing proposed research protocols, and present a one-page guidance sheet to help RECs during their reviews.
Correction to: On statistical convergence and strong Cesàro convergence by moduli for double sequences
Authors: León-Saavedra Fernando , Listán-García María del Carmen , Romero de la Rosa María del Pilar
Published: September 2023

We correct a logic mistake in our paper “On statistical convergence and strong Cesàro convergence by moduli for double sequences” (León-Saavedra et al. in J. Inequal. Appl. 2022:62, 2022).
Ryugu Sample Database System (RS-DBS) on the Data Archives and Transmission System (DARTS) by the JAXA curation
Authors: Nishimura Masahiro , Nakato Aiko , Abe Masanao , Nagashima Kana , Soejima Hiromichi , Yada Toru , Yogata Kasumi , Miyazaki Akiko , Hatakeda Kentaro , Yoshitake Miwa , Iwamae Ayako , Pilorget Cedric , Brunetto Rosario , Loizeau Damien , Bibring Jean-Pierre , Riu Lucie , Yumoto Koki , Cho Yuichiro , Yabe Yuna , Sugita Seiji , Ito Motoo , Okada Tatsuaki , Tachibana Shogo , Usui Tomohiro
Published: September 2023

The JAXA Astromaterials Science Research Group developed a web-based database system for the Hayabusa2-returned samples from C-type asteroid Ryugu. The Ryugu Sample Database System database (RS-DBS) is designed as an online catalog for users of wide scientific communities to choose their preferred samples and propose the sample loan through the JAXA Ryugu Sample Announcement of Opportunity. Ryugu samples can be sorted and given identification numbers as individual particles larger than 1 mm and aggregate samples consisting of less than 1 mm particle through the Phase1 curation (i.e., the initial description). The RS-DBS lists all samples with analytical data such as a microscopy image, size, mass, spectroscopic data, and shape model obtained by the initial description at the JAXA curation facility. The list also includes research results conducted by previous projects (i.e., the Hayabusa2 initial analysis team and Phase2 curation teams). The RS-DBS, built with open-source technologies, archives the data securely and long-term on the Data Archives and Transmission System (DARTS) at ISAS/JAXA.

Graphical Abstract
Metal ion removal using a low-cost coconut shell activated carbon bioadsorbent in the recovery of lactic acid from the fermentation broth
Authors: Wongvitvichot Wasupon , Thitiprasert Sitanan , Thongchul Nuttha , Chaisuwan Thanyalak
Published: September 2023

Downstream recovery and purification of lactic acid from the fermentation broth using locally available, low-cost materials derived from agricultural residues was demonstrated herein. Surface modification of coconut shell activated carbon (CSAC) was performed by grafting with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) using citric acid (CA) as the crosslinking agent. A proper ratio of CMC and CA to CSAC and grafting time improved the surface functionalization of grafted nanostructured CMC-CSAC while the specific surface area and porosity remained unchanged. Lactic acid was partially purified (78%) with the recovery percentage of lactic acid at 96% in single-stage adsorption at room temperature and pH 6 with a 10:1 ratio of cell-free broth to CMC-CSAC bioadsorbent. A thermodynamic study revealed that the adsorption was exothermic and non-spontaneous while the Langmuir isotherm model explained the adsorption phenomena. The results in this study represented the potential of waste utilization as solid adsorbents in green and low-cost adsorption technology.

Graphical Abstract
Statement on chronotherapy for the treatment of hypertension: consensus document from the Korean society of hypertension
Authors: Park Sungha , Ihm Sang-Hyun , Cho In-Jeong , Kim Dae-Hee , Park Jae Hyeong , Chung Woo-Baek , Choi Seonghoon , Lee Hae Young , Kim Hyeon Chang , Sohn Il Suk , Lee Eun Mi , Kim Ju Han , Kim Kwang-il , Cho Eun Joo , Sung Ki-Chul , Shin Jinho , Pyun Wook Bum
Published: September 2023

Nocturnal blood pressure (BP) has been shown to have a significant predictive value for cardiovascular disease. In some cases, it has a superior predictive value for future cardiovascular outcomes than daytime BP. As efficacy of BP medications wanes during nighttime and early morning, control of nocturnal hypertension and morning hypertension can be difficult. As such, chronotherapy, the dosing of BP medication in the evening, has been an ongoing topic of interest in the field of hypertension. Some studies have shown that chronotherapy is effective in reducing nocturnal BP, improving non dipping and rising patterns to dipping patterns, and improving cardiovascular prognosis. However, criticism and concerns have been raised regarding the design of these studies, such as the Hygia study, and the implausible clinical benefits in cardiovascular outcomes considering the degree of BP lowering from bedtime dosing. Studies have shown that there is no consistent evidence to suggest that routine administration of antihypertensive medications at bedtime can improve nocturnal BP and early morning BP control. However, in some cases of uncontrolled nocturnal hypertension and morning hypertension, such as in those with diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and obstructive sleep apnea, bedtime dosing has shown efficacy in reducing evening and early morning BP. The recently published the Treatment in Morning versus Evening (TIME) study failed to demonstrate benefit of bedtime dosing in reducing cardiovascular outcomes in patients with hypertension. With issues of the Hygia study and negative results from the TIME study, it is unclear at this time whether routine bedtime dosing is beneficial for reducing cardiovascular outcomes.
The development of the People with Aphasia and Other Layperson Involvement (PAOLI) framework for guiding patient and public involvement (PPI) in aphasia research
Authors: Charalambous Marina , Kountouri Alexia , Schwyter Jürg Rainer , Annoni Jean-Marie , Kambanaros Maria
Published: September 2023

Background

Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in aphasia research requires researchers to include people with aphasia as research partners from the beginning of the study. Yet the quality of reporting on the level and type of involvement is poorly documented in the absence of a framework to guide PPI in aphasia research. This study aimed to extract the items and statements relevant for the development of the People with Aphasia and Other Layperson Involvement (PAOLI) framework for designing and implementing PPI in aphasia research, in collaboration with people with aphasia.

Method

The method recommended by the EQUATOR network was followed. This involved: (1) evidence from a scoping review, (2) a thematic analysis of the in-depth interviews, of people with stroke and aphasia, on the topics to be included in the pilot draft, (3) a two round Delphi survey for item/statement selection and (4) an experts’ consensus meeting. The research team involved two PPI partners with chronic stroke-induced aphasia. The research process involved co-design and was informed by the Dialogue model.

Results

Twenty-three panellists, from 13 countries, voted in round one with 87% (20/23) responding in round two. The final PAOLI framework includes the following 17 items (with 66 descriptive statements): establish collaborations, recruit patients, gain informed consent, organize induction meetings, train patient partners, create communication links, engage communication partners, conceptualize topics, establish research priorities, reach consensus, work with co-design methods, develop proposals, assist with dissemination of results, promote implementation of the outcomes, support patient partners and promote self-evaluation, monitor progress and assess impact of the patient involvement. These items were considered by the panellists as the most relevant for the involvement of people with aphasia as research partners.

Conclusion

The PAOLI is the first international consensus framework for guiding patient involvement in aphasia research. Researchers are encouraged to adopt the framework to improve the quality of their research by promoting the meaningful involvement of people with aphasia within the research team from the start.
Short-pulse laser plus subthreshold diffuse laser for serous retinal detachment in dome-shaped macula
Authors: Rodrigues Murilo Wendeborn , Bastos Thais , Gonçalves Annelise Nicotti , Cardillo José Augusto , Messias André , de Souza Eduardo Cunha , Jorge Rodrigo
Published: September 2023

Background

First described by Gaucher and associates in 2008, dome-shaped macula (DSM) is an anterior convex protrusion of the macula visible on OCT (optical coherence tomography). Visual impairment in DSM results mainly from sub-foveal serous retinal detachment (SRD). Herein, this original study from retrospective data analysis evaluate the anatomical and functional effects of Pascal® short-pulse (SP) laser plus endpoint management (EpM) subthreshold diffuse laser (SDL) in patients with SRD due to DSM.

Methods

This retrospective study included seven consecutive patients (eight eyes) with SRD secondary to dome-shaped macula who underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation including logMAR BCVA, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) (Spectralis; Heidelberg Engineering, Germany) before combined Pascal® SP laser plus EpM-SDL with 1 to 6 month intervals, postoperatively, with a mean ± standard error (SE) follow-up time of 12.92 ± 1.34 months.

Results

Eight eyes from seven patients were analyzed in this study. At baseline, mean BCVA (LogMAR) ± standard error (SE) and mean CST (central subfield thickness)(µm) ± SE were 0.6125 ± 0.14 and 412.50 ± 24.65, respectively. After a mean follow-up time of 12.92 ± 1.34 months, mean CST (µm) ± SE and BCVA (LogMAR) ± SE were 294.75 ± 19.68 (p = 0.0078) and 0.4537 ± 0.12 (p = 0.0313), respectively. A statistically significant reduction in mean CST and an improvement in mean BCVA were noted after SRD resolution with laser therapy application. The mean serous retinal detachment resolution time (months) ± SE was 3.75 ± 1.08. No adverse events were registered, including enlargement of atrophic alterations and choroidal neovascularization.

Conclusions

The novel combined laser modality with Pascal® SP laser plus EpM-SDL treatment may induce subretinal fluid regression and BCVA improvement 1 year after treatment in DSM patients with SRD.
M6A transcriptome-wide map of circRNAs identified in the testis of normal and AZ-treated Xenopus laevis
Authors: Zhang Xin , Sai Linlin , Zhang Weiliang , Kan Xingzheng , Jia Qiang , Bo Cunxiang , Yin Wenhui , Shao Hua , Han Mingming , Peng Cheng
Published: September 2023

Background

Evidence showed that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is strongly associated with male germline development. However, the role of m6A methylation on circRNAs in amphibians remains unknown. In this study, we conducted m6A sequencing analysis to explore the m6A transcriptome-wide profile of circRNAs in testis tissues of Xenopus laevis (X. laevis) with and without treatment with 100 µg/L atrazine (AZ).

Results

The analysis showed that m6A modification of circRNAs enriched in sense overlapping in testes of X. laevis. We identified the differential m6A modification sites within circRNAs in testes of AZ-exposed X. laevis and compared that with animals from control group. The results showed that a total of 1507 methylated m6A sites was induced by AZ (760 up-methylated and 747 down-methylated). The cross-analysis exhibited a negative correlation of differentially methylated m6A peaks and circRNAs expression level. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis indicated that 20 key pathways may be involved in the mechanism of testis damage of AZ-exposed X. laevis.

Conclusions

These findings indicated that differentially m6A-methylated circRNAs may play important roles in abnormal testis development of AZ-exposed X. laevis. This study is the first report about a map of m6A modification of circRNAs in male X. laevis and provides a basis for further studying on the function and mechanism of m6A methylation of circRNAs in the testis development of amphibian.
Challenges and recommendations for measuring time devoted to implementation and intervention activities in health equity-focused, resource-constrained settings: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Levy Douglas E. , Singh Deepinder , Aschbrenner Kelly A. , Davies Madeline E. , Pelton-Cairns Leslie , Kruse Gina R.
Published: September 2023

Background

There is little guidance for conducting health equity-focused economic evaluations of evidence-based practices in resource-constrained settings, particularly with respect to staff time use. Investigators must balance the need for low-touch, non-disruptive cost data collection with the need for data on providing services to priority subpopulations.

Methods

This investigation took place within a pilot study examining the implementation of a bundled screening intervention combining screening for social determinants of health and colorectal cancer at four federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in the Boston metropolitan area. Methods for collecting data on personnel costs for implementation and intervention activities, including passive (automatic) and active (non-automatic, requiring staff time and effort) data collection, as well as three alternate wordings for self-reporting time-use, were evaluated qualitatively using data collected through interviews with FQHC staff (including clinicians, population health staff, and community health workers) and assessments of data completeness.

Results

Passive data collection methods were simple to execute and resulted in no missing data, but missed implementation and intervention activities that took place outside planned meetings. Active cost data collection using spreadsheets was simple for users when applied to care processes already tracked in this fashion and yielded accurate time use data. However, for tasks where this was not typical, and when tasks were broken up over multiple sessions, spreadsheets were more challenging to use. Questions asking about time use for a typical rather than specific time period, and for typical patients, yielded the most reliable and actionable data. Still, even the best-performing question had substantial variability in time use estimates. Participants noted that patient characteristics of interest for equity-focused research, including language spoken, adverse social determinants of health, and issues related to poverty or mental health, all contributed significantly to this variability.

Conclusions

Passively collected time use data are the least burdensome and should be pursued in research efforts when possible, but should be accompanied by qualitative assessments to ensure the data are an accurate reflection of effort. When workflows are already tracked by active data collection, these are also strong data collection methods. Self-reported time use will be most accurate when questions inquire about “typical” tasks and specific types of patients.
Hydrogeologic controls on barrier island geomorphology: Insights from electromagnetic surveys
Authors: Abdelrehim Ramadan , Ahmed Mohamed , Everett Mark E.
Published: September 2023

Barrier islands provide a first line of defense for coastal communities against storms, hurricanes, and sea-level rise. The geomorphology of barrier islands exerts a major control on storm impact and island recovery. In turn, barrier island geomorphology is affected by subsurface hydrogeologic conditions. In this study, we investigated the relationship between subsurface hydrogeologic conditions and geomorphology of Padre Island, with a focus on the influence of human development. We measured apparent electrical conductivities using frequency-domain electromagnetic (FDEM) surveys and spatially correlated them with the island's morphology. The latter was generated from a 1 m resolution digital elevation model. Four distinct zones were identified from the observed variations in apparent conductivity and elevation, revealing their inverse correlation. The beach area (Zone I) exhibits the highest apparent conductivity (289.7 ± 66.3 mS/m) and the lowest elevations (1.4 ± 0.2 m). These trends are largely due to the proximity of the beach to saline groundwater and maritime floods. Conversely, the foredune area (Zone II) presents the lowest apparent conductivity (19.0 ± 3.4 mS/m) and the highest elevation (4.5 ± 0.4 m) due to a greater distance from saline waters, deeper groundwater levels, and relatively dry soil conditions. Human development has significantly impacted Zones III (east central zone) and IV (west central zone), contributing to an increase in apparent conductivity (Zone III: 40.3 ± 21.8 mS/m; Zone IV: 159.5 ± 83.0 mS/m) and a reduction in elevation (Zone III: 2.1 ± 0.5 m; Zone IV: 1.3 ± 0.4 m). Anthropogenic activities have modified hydrologic patterns, introduced conductive materials, and altered vegetation cover and soil composition. This research elucidates the interplay between subsurface electrical conductivity, surface morphology, and the impact of human development on barrier island geomorphology, providing crucial insights for coastal management and conservation efforts.
Frequency domain electromagnetic calibration for improved detection of sand intrusions in river embankments
Authors: Araújo O. S. , Picotti S. , Francese R. G. , Bocchia F. , Santos F. Monteiro , Giorgi M. , Tessarollo A.
Published: September 2023

Sand intrusions pose significant risks to river embankments due to potential flow pathways that can lead to instability during flood events. Visual inspection is a first step to recognize critical segments, but it does not deliver information about the subsurface. In this context, the electromagnetic induction (EMI) technique is a useful method for preliminary zoning at regional scale while the electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) method, widely used for hydrological purposes, is considered among the most reliable techniques for local subsurface imaging. A major sand intrusion within the levees of the Brenta River, located near Venice (northern Italy), resulted in water seeping during seasonal floods and posed severe threats to embankment stability. ERT and EMI techniques, along with geotechnical investigations, were the best survey choices to address the problem. Resistivity profiling successfully imaged the sand body geometry within and underneath the levee, and results correlated nicely with borehole stratigraphy. A first multiarray EMI device, which represented a faster and less expensive survey, was deployed to map further anomalies along nearby levees, but results were not satisfactory because the inverted profile failed to image the known intrusion. A second multiarray EMI device, with larger coil spacing, was also tested. Although it performed better in detecting the intrusion, results were still below expectations. A calibration procedure based on Pearson's coefficients and using ERT as a reference was then devised and implemented to correct the EMI data prior to carrying out inversion. The procedure was successful for both EMI data sets, leading to realistic subsurface resistivity in the inverted sections. EMI measurements could then be recovered and interpreted correctly to estimate subsurface textures. The possibility of calibrating EMI data and obtaining subsurface resistivity images comparable to standard ERT profiling is an important improvement for cost-effective EMI surveying of river embankments to mitigate flood hazards.
Secondary porosity and pore aspect ratios integrated with permeability and FMI logs to characterize flow zones at a Port Mayaca aquifer in South Florida
Authors: Parra Jorge O.
Published: September 2023

The complex pore structure of carbonate aquifers presents a challenge to interpreters analyzing geophysical logs and geologic data. A significant task is to develop physical rock models to determine the microstructure that provides information about flow-zone paths within the aquifer. In an attempt to achieve this task, an algorithm is devised to predict the secondary porosity formed by stiff macropores, compliant micropores, touching vugs, and pore aspect ratios from sonic logs. The pore aspect ratios are classified in intervals that delineate permeable and low permeability zones of aquifers. This provides information about the presence of isolated vugs, which do not contribute to the flow and connect or touch vugs that are part of the flow zones. The inversion results determined that permeable channels have pore aspect ratios 0.01–0.2. Alternatively, vugs with aspect ratios 0.5–1 are not forming permeable paths because they are isolated and are not contributing to flow zones. The inversion of P- and S-wave velocity logs using density and total porosity logs obtains the secondary porosity and pore aspect ratios. It found optimum correlation coefficients of 0.9975 for S-wave and 0.9405 for P-wave velocities by constraining the solution with the natural relation of the total porosity versus primary plus secondary porosities. The Port Mayaca aquifer includes Stoneley-wave permeability, formation microimager logs, and microresistivity logs, which together with pore aspect ratio and secondary porosity logs delineate and characterize the flow zones. In addition, data integration demonstrates that the vug porosity log detects fractures in resistive, permeable, and dense cemented zones. This new finding creates vug signatures, with their maximums resembling the shapes of the corresponding resistivity heights in the microresistivity log. In conclusion, it is shown that the anomaly zones correspond to water production regions, and their presence is confirmed with flow meter logs.
Neural-network–based algorithm for the inverse problem of measuring K-shell ionization cross-sections of Si induced by 3–25 keV electrons and 4.5–9 keV positrons using the thick-target method
Authors: Li Y. D. , Wu Y. , Huang C. J. , Liu Z. H. , Pan M.
Published: September 2023

In this study, a neural network method is proposed for solving the inverse problem in the measurement of inner-shell ionization cross-sections using the thick-target method. It was applied to calculate the K-shell ionization cross-section of silicon (Si) from positron impacts in the energy range from 4.5 to 9 keV, using a Monte Carlo simulation program called PENELOPE to construct a comprehensive characteristic X-ray yield and cross-section database, serving as a foundation for training the neural network. The experimental values are compared with those obtained using regularization, yield differential, and distorted-wave Born approximation (DWBA) theoretical models. Our findings reveal that the cross-section results obtained from all three algorithms are in good agreement with the theoretical DWBA values within the error range. Moreover, our study highlights the superiority of the neural network algorithm in solving ill-posed problems, compared with traditional regularization algorithms and the yield differential method. Furthermore, we re-analyse the experimental data of electron-induced ionization cross-sections on a pure thick Si target in the energy range from 3 to 25 keV, which were originally obtained by Zhu et al. who used a regularization method. The reprocessed cross-sections obtained in this study exhibit good agreement with the reported results within the error range. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first experimental report of the K-shell ionization cross-sections of Si from positron impact.
The Effect of Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Older Hypogonadal Men
Authors: Lee Hae Seung , Han Sang Hun , Swerdloff Ronald , Pak Youngju , Budoff Matthew , Wang Christina
Published: September 2023

Context

Male hypogonadism is associated with visceral obesity and the metabolic syndrome: factors important for the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The Testosterone Trials (The T Trials) showed testosterone (T) treatment compared with placebo in older hypogonadal men was associated with decreases in cholesterol and insulin levels suggesting that T treatment may improve NAFLD.

Objective

Compare effects of T vs placebo treatment on NAFLD scores and liver scans in elderly hypogonadal men.

Methods

Secondary data analyses from 479 older hypogonadal men with total T < 275 ng/dL from The T Trials were performed. Three clinical liver fat scores—lipid accumulation product index, hepatic steatosis index, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-metabolic syndrome score—and liver computed tomography (CT) Hounsfield units and liver to spleen ratio were evaluated at baseline and 12 months after treatment.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences of change in lipid accumulation product index (P = .98), hepatic steatosis index (P = .67), and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-metabolic syndrome (P = .52) in 246 men treated with T compared with 233 treated with placebo for 12 months. Liver CT showed no statistically significant difference of change in Hounsfield units (P = .24; n = 71 for T, n = 69 for placebo) and liver to spleen ratio (P = .74; n = 55 for T, n = 62 for placebo) between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Our study did not show improvement of NAFLD in older hypogonadal men after 12 months of T vs placebo treatment, as assessed by 3 clinical scores and liver CT for hepatic steatosis. Future studies with longer treatment duration and additional NAFLD diagnostic modalities as primary outcome are warranted.
Appropriateness of Levothyroxine Prescription: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Ayala Ivan Nicolas , Soto Jacome Cristian , Toro-Tobon David , Golembiewski Elizabeth , Garcia-Bautista Andrea , Hidalgo Jessica , Cordova-Madera Sandra , Al Anbari Raghda , Sohn R Jessica , Singh Ospina Naykky , Maraka Spyridoula , Joseph Marina , Brito Juan P
Published: September 2023

Context

Levothyroxine is one of the most prescribed medications in the United States.

Objective

This study explores the appropriateness of levothyroxine prescriptions.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter study was conducted on adult patients who were prescribed levothyroxine for the first time between 2017 and 2020 at three academic centers in the United States. We classified each case of levothyroxine initiation into one of three mutually exclusive categories: appropriate (clinically supported), indeterminate (clinically unclear), or nonevidence based (NEB, not clinically supported).

Results

A total of 977 participants were included. The mean age was 55 years (SD 19), there was female (69%) and White race predominance (84%), and 44% had possible hypothyroid symptoms. Nearly half of the levothyroxine prescriptions were considered NEB (528, 54%), followed by appropriate (307, 31%) and indeterminate (118, 12%). The most common reason for NEB prescription was an index thyrotropin (TSH) value of less than 10 mIU/L without previous TSH or thyroxine values (131/528, 25%), for appropriate prescription, was overt hypothyroidism (163/307, 53%), and for an indeterminate prescription was a nonconfirmed subclinical hypothyroidism with TSH greater than or equal to 10 mIU/L (no confirmatory testing) (51/118, 43%). In multivariable analysis, being female (odds ratio [OR]: 1.3; 95% CI, 1.0-1.7) and prescription by a primary care provider (OR: 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2-2.0) were associated with NEB prescriptions.

Conclusion

There is a considerable proportion of NEB levothyroxine prescriptions. These results call for additional research to replicate these findings and to explore the perspective of those prescribing and receiving levothyroxine.
Improvements in Sperm Motility Following Low- or High-Intensity Dietary Interventions in Men With Obesity
Authors: Sharma Aditi , Papanikolaou Nikoleta , Abou Sherif Sara , Dimakopolou Anastasia , Thaventhiran Thilipan , Go Cara , Holtermann Entwistle Olivia , Brown Adrian , Luo Rong , Jha Rama , Prakash Anavi , Khalifa Dalia , Lewis Hannah , Ramaraju Sruthi , Leeds Anthony R , Chahal Harvinder , Purkayastha Sanjay , Henkel Ralf , Minhas Sukhbinder , Frost Gary , Dhillo Waljit S , Jayasena Channa N
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Obesity increases risks of male infertility, but bariatric surgery does not improve semen quality. Recent uncontrolled studies suggest that a low-energy diet (LED) improves semen quality. Further evaluation within a randomized, controlled setting is warranted.

Methods

Men with obesity (18-60 years) with normal sperm concentration (normal count) (n = 24) or oligozoospermia (n = 43) were randomized 1:1 to either 800 kcal/day LED for 16 weeks or control, brief dietary intervention (BDI) with 16 weeks’ observation. Semen parameters were compared at baseline and 16 weeks.

Results

Mean age of men with normal count was 39.4 ± 6.4 in BDI and 40.2 ± 9.6 years in the LED group. Mean age of men with oligozoospermia was 39.5 ± 7.5 in BDI and 37.7 ± 6.6 years in the LED group. LED caused more weight loss than BDI in men with normal count (14.4 vs 6.3 kg; P < .001) and men with oligozoospermia (17.6 vs 1.8 kg; P < .001). Compared with baseline, in men with normal count total motility (TM) increased 48 ± 17% to 60 ± 10% (P < .05) after LED, and 52 ± 8% to 61 ± 6% (P < .0001) after BDI; progressive motility (PM) increased 41 ± 16% to 53 ± 10% (P < .05) after LED, and 45 ± 8% to 54 ± 65% (P < .001) after BDI. In men with oligozoospermia compared with baseline, TM increased 35% [26] to 52% [16] (P < .05) after LED, and 43% [28] to 50% [23] (P = .0587) after BDI; PM increased 29% [23] to 46% [18] (P < .05) after LED, and 33% [25] to 44% [25] (P < .05) after BDI. No differences in postintervention TM or PM were observed between LED and BDI groups in men with normal count or oligozoospermia.

Conclusion

LED or BDI may be sufficient to improve sperm motility in men with obesity. The effects of paternal dietary intervention on fertility outcomes requires investigation.
The Spanish Settlement of Texas and Arizona
Authors: Menchaca Martha
Published: September 2023

In this chapter, Martha Menchaca examines the northward migration of Indians, mestizos, and afromestizos into the Southwest, drawn by promises of a relaxed racial order where people of color would be given some of the economic opportunities only enjoyed by whites in the interior of Mexico. She also explores the conquest of many indigenous groups of the Southwest and their conversion to Christianity.
Migrations
Authors: Zavella Patricia
Published: September 2023

Patricia Zavella explores the process of border crossing by migrants both across the U.S.-Mexico border and within the state and local boundaries within the United States. Zavella discusses how discourses about migration are gendered, evoking parallels and divergences between the experiences of men and women.
The hydrodynamics of jet propulsion swimming in hatchling and juvenile European common cuttlefish, Sepia officinalis
Authors: Gladman Nicholas W. , Askew Graham N.
Published: September 2023

Cuttlefish swim using jet propulsion, taking a small volume of fluid into the mantle cavity before it is expelled through the siphon to generate thrust. Jet propulsion swimming has been shown to be more metabolically expensive than undulatory swimming, which has been suggested to be due to the lower efficiency of jet propulsion. The whole-cycle propulsive efficiency of cephalopod molluscs ranges from 38 to 76%, indicating that in some instances jet propulsion can be relatively efficient. Here, we determined the hydrodynamics of hatchling and juvenile cuttlefish during jet propulsion swimming to understand the characteristics of their jets, and whether their whole-cycle propulsive efficiency changes during development. Cuttlefish were found to utilise two jet types: isolated jet vortices (termed jet mode I) and elongated jets (leading edge vortex ring followed by a trailing jet; termed jet mode II). The use of these jet modes differed between the age classes, with newly hatched animals nearly exclusively utilising mode I jets, while juveniles showed no strong preferences. Whole-cycle propulsive efficiency was found to be high, ranging from 72 to 80%, and did not differ between age classes. During development, Strouhal number decreased as Reynolds number increased, which is consistent with animals adjusting their jetting behaviour in order to maximise whole-cycle propulsive efficiency and locomotor performance. Although jet propulsion swimming can have a relatively high energetic cost, in cuttlefish and nautilus, both neutrally buoyant species, the whole-cycle propulsive efficiency is actually relatively high.
A Dual Protective Drug Delivery System Based on Lipid Coated Core-Shell Mesoporous Silica for Efficient Delivery of Cabazitaxel to Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Mohanan Shan , Sathish C I , Adams Thomas J , Kan Stanislav , Liang Mingtao , Vinu Ajayan
Published: September 2023

Many advancements are happening in drug delivery to develop an excellent nanocarrier to deliver drugs to target sites bypassing clinical barriers, thereby improving cellular uptake. Lipid coating on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) has significantly reduced the drawbacks of many MSNs and increased their compatibility. This study reports a dual protective acid stimuli-responsive lipid-coated core-shell mesoporous silica nanoparticle (CSMS) conjugated with cabazitaxel showing better drug release, cell uptake, and cytotoxicity, and suitability in the prostate cancer (PC-3) cell line. Initially, monodispersed CSMS were conjugated with cabazitaxel (CBZ) through a hydrazone linker (CBZ@Hy-CSMS), proving its appropriate use in designing a stimuli-responsive system. In the second part, CBZ-conjugated CSMS was coated with a lipid layer (L-CBZ@Hy-CSMS) by the liposome fusion method. The presented dual protective CSMS system showed a significant increase in drug delivery at pH 5.4 compared to 7.4, with a drastic decrease in premature drug release when exposed to pH 7.4. The lipid-coated CSMS showed excellent biocompatibility and better cellular uptake with enhanced cell cytotoxicity in PC-3 cancer cells as compared to the uncoated CSMS. CSMS with a lipid coating combined with a stimuli-responsive system could improve the therapeutic delivery and treatment difficulties in many other cell lines and diseases.
The Long-Run Effects of the 1930s Redlining Maps on Children
Authors: Aaronson Daniel , Hartley Daniel , Mazumder Bhashkar , Stinson Martha
Published: September 2023

We estimate the long-run effects of the 1930s Home Owners Loan Corporation (HOLC) redlining maps by linking children in the full count 1940 census to 1) the universe of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax data in 1974 and 1979 and 2) the long form 2000 census. We use two identification strategies to estimate the potential long-run effects of differential access to credit along HOLC boundaries. The first strategy compares cross-boundary differences along HOLC boundaries to a comparison group of boundaries that had statistically similar preexisting differences as the actual boundaries. A second approach only uses boundaries that were least likely to have been chosen by the HOLC based on our statistical model. We find that children living on the lower-graded side of HOLC boundaries had significantly lower levels of educational attainment, reduced income in adulthood, and lived in neighborhoods during adulthood characterized by lower educational attainment, higher poverty rates, and higher rates of single-parent households. (JEL G21, I26, I32, J13, N32, R23, R31)
Immigration and Support for Redistribution: Lessons from Europe
Authors: Cavaillé Charlotte , Van der Straeten Karine
Published: September 2023

Research shows that opposition to policies that redistribute across racial divides has affected the development of the American welfare state. Are similar dynamics at play in Western Europe? For many scholars, the answer is yes. In contrast, we argue that researchers’ understanding of the political economy of redistribution in diversifying European countries is too incomplete to reach a conclusion on this issue. First, existing evidence is inconsistent with the assumption—ubiquitous in this line of research—of a universal distaste for sharing resources with people who are culturally, ethnically, and racially different. Second, important historical and institutional differences between the United States and Europe preclude any straightforward transposition of the American experience to the European case. We discuss what we see as the most promising lines of inquiry going forward. (JEL D64, H23, J15, J68, K37, Z13)
Concatenated 16S rRNA sequence analysis improves bacterial taxonomy
Authors: Paul Bobby
Published: September 2023

Background: Microscopic, biochemical, molecular, and computer-based approaches are extensively used to identify and classify bacterial populations. Advances in DNA sequencing and bioinformatics workflows have facilitated sophisticated genome-based methods for microbial taxonomy although sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene is widely employed to identify and classify bacterial communities as a cost-effective and single-gene approach. However, the 16S rRNA sequence-based species identification accuracy is limited because of the occurrence of multiple copies of the 16S rRNA gene and higher sequence identity between closely related species. The availability of the genomes of several bacterial species provided an opportunity to develop comprehensive species-specific 16S rRNA reference libraries.

Methods: Sequences of the 16S rRNA genes were retrieved from the whole genomes available in the Genome databases. With defined criteria, four 16S rRNA gene copy variants were concatenated to develop a species-specific reference library. The sequence similarity search was performed with a web-based BLAST program, and MEGA software was used to construct the phylogenetic tree.

Results: Using this approach, species-specific 16S rRNA gene libraries were developed for four closely related Streptococcus species (S. gordonii, S. mitis, S. oralis, and S. pneumoniae). Sequence similarity and phylogenetic analysis using concatenated 16S rRNA copies yielded better resolution than single gene copy approaches.

Conclusions: The approach is very effective in classifying genetically closely related bacterial species and may reduce misclassification of bacterial species and genome assemblies.
Protocol for the evaluation of cyclin D1 expression in tumor tissue and surgical margins in oral squamous cell carcinoma – a retrospective study
Authors: CHAVHAN ANKITA , Patil Swati , Gawande Madhuri , Hande Alka , Sonone Archana , Pakhale Aayushi
Published: September 2023

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a malignant epithelial tumor with poor prognosis. There is an increase in the proliferation of epithelial cells in OSCC which is control by cell cycle regulators like Cyclin D1. Cyclin D1 is linked to a poor prognosis for patients, including aggressive malignancies, recurrence, protracted remission, etc.

To evaluate Cyclin D1 immunoexpression in different grades and surgical margins in OSCC. All tissue sections will be processed for Cyclin D1 IHC. After that light microscopic evaluation of Cyclin D1 expression was classified as weak (scoring 1-4), moderate (score 5-8), or strong based on a final expression score that was obtained by multiplying the labelling index score by the intensity score (score 9–12).

The present study will find the immunohistochemical expression of Cyclin D1 in OSCC. There will be variation in the immunoexpression of Cyclin D1 among different grades of OSCC its surgical margin and normal oral mucosa.

We hypothesize that: As the disease condition goes towards poor grade, intensity of cyclin D1 expression immunohistochemically may increase. Hence, the intensity can be used as a prognostic marker.
Histomorphometric analysis of angiogenesis in oral submucous fibrosis and oral squamous cell carcinoma associated with oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Hande Alka , Sonone Archana , Gawande Madhuri , Patil Swati , Pakhale Aayushi , Durge Shelley
Published: September 2023

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), now worldwide acknowledged as the disease of “Southeast Asia and Indian subcontinent”, has the utmost malignant transformation prevalence amongst oral precancerous disorders. Increased vascularity that is neoangiogenesis has been observed in the superficial connective tissue region of pre-cancerous lesions showing dysplasia. This could be an initial occurrence of the carcinogenesis process. The aim of this study will be to analyse neoangiogenesis by examining immunoexpression of CD105 in OSMF, and OSCC with OSMF cases.

Methods: The project will comprise 30 normal oral mucosa samples (group I), 30 clinicopathologically diagnosed cases of OSMF (group II), and on the basis of association of OSMF, 30 surgically operated and histopathologically diagnosed cases of OSCC associated with OSMF (group III). Hematoxylin and eosin stains will be used for routine staining procedures and immunohistochemistry for the expression of CD105. Oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) cases of OSMF will be categorized into two groups, low-risk epithelial dysplasia (LRED) and high-risk epithelial dysplasia (HRED). The micro vessel density (MVD), total microvessel area (TVA), and mean microvessel area (MVA) are within and surrounding the tumor tissue sections immunostained with the CD105 antibody will be determined. ANOVA will be applied for evaluation of the mean scores of MVD, TVA, and MVA of groups II and III. The obtained score will be compared with different parameters of OSCC (TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, and histopathological grades).

Conclusions: We postulate the progressively increased vascularity with the disease progression from LRED to HRED and further its transformation to invasive oral squamous cell carcinoma This increased vascularity will be evident by enhanced MVD, TVA and mean MVA, which is expressed by CD105 immunoexpression. This observation will emphasize the significance of neoangiogenesis in cases of OSMF with epithelial dysplasia and its further progression to OSCC.
Choice of bead-beater instrument can result in significant differences in the outcome of host-associated microbiome studies
Authors: Chauhan Ashvini , Chukwujindu Christian , Pathak Ashish
Published: September 2023

Background: Accurate assessment of the abundance and composition of microbial assemblages in a complex environmental sample depends on the successful lysis of microbial cells, for which bead-beating is typically used. In this study, we compared two commonly used bead beaters, FastPrep and the Bead Ruptor Elite, for their ability to lyse the eastern-oyster-associated bacterial communities over three different time points.

Methods:  Genomic DNA was extracted from homogenized oyster samples using two different lysis equipment: the MSP FastPrep and the Bead Ruptor Elite. The V4-V5 variable regions of microbial small subunit ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) genes were PCR-amplified and sequenced using Illumina Miseq, obtained sequences were bioinformatically processed using QIIME2 and the MicrobiomeAnalyst pipeline.

Results: We found that the oyster samples were mostly populated by Proteobacteria phyla, regardless of lysis method. Additionally, the samples isolated by the FastPrep lysis method also harbored Firmicutes and Bacteroidota, which were not identified in the samples treated with the Bead Ruptor Elite lysis equipment. Differences were more obvious at the genus level, such that Delftia genus dominated at 80-85% when the lysis was performed using the FastPrep method. Conversely, 80-90% of the microbial abundances in the Bead Ruptor Elite-treated samples belonged to Burkholderia spp. Diversity and evenness estimates revealed that the FastPrep-treated samples were 40% more diverse and 70% more evenly distributed relative to the Bead Ruptor Elite method. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) led to a distinct separation of the bacterial communities retrieved from the two lysis methods.

Conclusions: Overall, this study shows that two different lysis protocols can yield significantly different microbial taxa from the same sample; thus, researchers need to be cognizant of DNA extraction process being followed for metagenomics studies, especially those that involve host tissues containing high amounts of mucous and other PCR inhibitory materials.
Barriers to access health facilities: a self-reported cross-sectional study of women in India
Authors: Das Aakashdeep , Chakraborty Sayantan , Imani Ali , Golestani Mina , Ajmera Puneeta , Majeed Jaseela , Carlerby Heidi , Dalal Koustuv
Published: September 2023

Background: Accessing healthcare facilities by the women is one of the biggest challenges in the low- and middle-income countries. The present study aimed to understand the barriers to access health facilities for women in India and examine the various determinants that interplay healthcare accessing behaviour among women in India.  

Methods: The study utilised the Indian National Family Health Survey 4 data from all the 29 member states and seven union territories and performed cross-tabulations with chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression.  

Results: The disparity in access to health facilities for Indian women still exists for minorities and lower-income groups. Women aged 40+, living in urban areas, belonging to rich families, and women who hold bank accounts have shown better access to healthcare facilities. Women’s education was an important factor for accessing healthcare facilities.  

Conclusions: This significant difference in the rate of healthcare utilization among women suggests that it may contribute to more prevalent and severe health decrements among the disadvantaged group. It is also worth mentioning that the cultural and educational differences in health measures may further explain women's low utilization of healthcare facilities. Women's experiences regarding access to healthcare facilities raise essential questions about policymakers’ priorities that increasingly allow women and their families to bear the brunt of poverty and poor health.