bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shaping of topography by topographically-controlled vegetation in tropical montane rainforest
Authors: Brocard Gilles , Willebring Jane K. , Scatena Fred N.
Published: March 2023

Topography is commonly viewed as a passive backdrop on which vegetation grows. Yet, in certain circumstances, a bidirectional feedback may develop between the control of topography and the spatial distribution of vegetation and landform development, because vegetation modulates the erosion of the land surface. Therefore, if reinforcing feedbacks are established between erosion and land cover distribution over timescales relevant to landform development, then the interactions between vegetation and topography may create distinctive landforms, shaped by vegetation. We expose here a strong correlation between the spatial distribution of vegetation, erosion rates, and topography at a characteristic length scale of 102-103m (mesoscale topography) in the Luquillo Experimental forest (LEF) of Puerto Rico. We use high-resolution LiDAR topography to characterize landforms, satellite images to classify the vegetation into forest types, and in-situ produced cosmogenic 10Be in the quartz extracted from soils and stream sediments to document spatial variations in soil erosion. The data document a strong correlation between forest type and topographic position (hilltop vs. valleys), and a correlation between topographic position and 10Be-derived erosion rates over 103−104 years. Erosion is faster in valleys, which are mostly covered by monocot Palm Forest, and slower on surrounding hills mostly covered by the dicot Palo Colorado Forest. Transition from one forest type to the next occurs across a break-in-slope that separates shallowly convex hilltops from deeply concave valleys (coves). The break-in-slope is the consequence of a longer-lasting erosional imbalance whereby coves erode faster than hills over landscape-shaping timescales. Such a deepening of the coves is usually spurred by external drivers, but such drivers are here absent. This implies that cove erosion is driven by a process originating within the coves themselves. We propose that vegetation is the primary driver of this imbalance, soil erosion being faster under Palm forest than under Palo Colorado forest. Concentration of the Palm forest in the deepening coves is reinforced by the better adaptation of Palm trees to the erosive processes that take place in the coves, once these develop steep slopes. At the current rate of landscape development, we find that the imbalance started within the past 0.1–1.5 My. The initiation of the process could correspond to time of settlement of these mountain slopes by the Palm and Palo Colorado forests.
Video based monitoring systems for hand hygiene compliance auditing: What do patients think?
Authors: McKay Katherine J. , Shaban Ramon Z.
Published: March 2023

Background

Compliance with hand hygiene by healthcare workers is a vital aspect of the quality and safety in healthcare. The current method of monitoring compliance, known as direct observation, has been questioned as have the various electronic measures proposed as alternatives. In our earlier work we established the capacity of video-based monitoring systems (VMS) to collect data with increased efficacy, efficiency and accuracy. However, the spectre of the approach being seen as an unacceptable invasion of patient privacy, was raised as a barrier to implementation by healthcare workers.

Methods

In depth, semi structured interviews were conducted with 8 patients in order to explore their beliefs and options regarding the proposed approach. Interviews were transcribed and then thematic and content analysis was conducted in order to uncover themes from the data.

Results

Despite healthcare worker predictions, patients were generally accepting of the use of video-based monitoring systems for the auditing of hand hygiene compliance. However, this acceptance was conditional. Four interconnected themes emerged from the interview data; quality and safety of care versus privacy, consumer Involvement–knowledge, understanding and consent, technical features of the system, and rules of operation.

Conclusion

The use of within zone VMS approaches to hand hygiene auditing has the potential to improve the efficacy, efficiency and accuracy of hand hygiene auditing and hence the safety and quality of healthcare. By combining a suite of technical and operational specifications with high level consumer engagement and information the acceptability of the approach for patients may be significantly enhanced.
Long-term trends in grassland bird relative abundance on focal grassland landscapes in Missouri
Authors: Schindler Alexander R. , Boehm Hadley I. A. , Beckerman Tyler F. , Bonnot Thomas W. , DiDonato Frances M. , Mosloff Alisha R. , Weegman Mitch D. , Kendrick Sarah W.
Published: March 2023

North American grassland birds have widely declined over the past 50 years, largely due to anthropogenic-driven loss of native prairie habitat. In response to these declines, many conservation programs have been implemented to help secure wildlife habitat on private and public lands. The Grasslands Coalition is one such initiative established to advance the conservation of grassland birds in Missouri. The Missouri Department of Conservation conducted annual point count surveys for comparison of grassland bird relative abundance between focal grassland areas and nearby paired (i.e., containing no targeted management) sites. We analyzed 17 years of point count data with a generalized linear mixed model in a Bayesian framework to estimate relative abundance and trends across focal or paired sites for nine bird species of management interest that rely on grasslands: barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), dickcissel (Spiza americana), eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna), grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum), Henslow’s sparrow (A.henslowii), horned lark (Eremophila alpestris), northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus), and red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus). Relative abundance of all species except eastern meadowlarks declined regionally. Relative abundance of barn swallows, brown-headed cowbirds, dickcissels, eastern meadowlarks, Henslow’s sparrows, and northern bobwhites was higher in focal than paired sites, though relative abundance trends were only improved in focal vs. paired areas for dickcissels and Henslow’s sparrows. Relative abundance increased with increasing grassland cover at the local (250-m radius) scale for all species except horned larks and red-winged blackbirds and at the landscape (2,500-m radius) scale for all species except dickcissels, eastern meadowlarks, and northern bobwhites. Our results suggest focal areas contained greater relative abundances of several grassland species of concern, likely due to increased availability of grassland habitat at local and landscape scales. Further efforts to decrease landscape-scale fragmentation and improve habitat quality may be needed to achieve conservation goals.
Addressing non-medical health-related social needs through a community-based lifestyle intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic: The Black Impact program
Authors: Joseph Joshua J. , Gray Darrell M. , Williams Amaris , Zhao Songzhu , McKoy Alicia , Odei James B. , Brock Guy , Lavender Dana , Walker Daniel M. , Nawaz Saira , Baker Carrie , Hoseus Jenelle , Price Tanikka , Gregory John , Nolan Timiya S.
Published: March 2023

Background

Non-medical health-related social needs (social needs) are major contributors to worse health outcomes and may have an adverse impact on cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular disease. The present study evaluated the effect of a closed-loop community-based pathway in reducing social needs among Black men in a lifestyle change program.

Methods

Black men (n = 70) from a large Midwestern city participated in Black Impact, a 24-week community-based team lifestyle change single-arm pilot trial adapted from the Diabetes Prevention Program and American Heart Association’s (AHA) Check, Change, Control Blood Pressure Self-Management Program, which incorporates AHA’s Life’s Simple 7 (LS7) framework. Participants were screened using the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Accountable Health Communities Health-Related Social Needs Screening Tool. Participants with affirmative responses were referred to a community hub pathway to address social needs. The primary outcome for this analysis is change in social needs based on the CMS social needs survey at 12 and 24 weeks using mixed effect logistic regressions with random intercepts for each participant. Change in a LS7 score (range 0–14) from baseline to 12 and 24 weeks was evaluated using a linear mixed-effects model stratified by baseline social needs.

Results

Among 70 participants, the mean age of participants was 52 ±10.5 years. The men were sociodemographically diverse, with annual income ranging from <$20,000 (6%) to ≥$75,000 (23%). Forty-three percent had a college degree or higher level of education, 73% had private insurance, and 84% were employed. At baseline 57% of participants had at least one social need. Over 12 and 24 weeks, this was reduced to 37% (OR 0.33, 95%CI: 0.13, 0.85) and 44% (OR 0.50, 95%CI: 0.21, 1.16), respectively. There was no association of baseline social needs status with baseline LS7 score, and LS7 score improved over 12 and 24 weeks among men with and without social needs, with no evidence of a differential effect.

Conclusions

The Black Impact lifestyle change single-arm pilot program showed that a referral to a closed-loop community-based hub reduced social needs in Black men. We found no association of social needs with baseline or change in LS7 scores. Further evaluation of community-based strategies to advance the attainment of LS7 and address social needs among Black men in larger trials is warranted.
Diagnostic performance of two rapid tests for syphilis screening in people living with HIV in Cali, Colombia
Authors: García Luna Jonny Alejandro , Romero-Rosas Nelson , Silva Peña Sebastian Alejandro , Oviedo Sarmiento Oscar Javier , Galindo Orrego Ximena , Lenis Quintero William , Perea Luisa Consuelo , Martínez Buitrago Ernesto , Osorio Lyda , Salazar Juan Carlos , Smith Adrian D. , Alexander Neal
Published: March 2023

Introduction

There is insufficient evidence supporting the use of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for syphilis in people living with HIV (PLWH). We evaluated the diagnostic performance of two commercially available RDTs (Bioline and Determine) in PLWH in Cali, Colombia.

Methods

A cross-sectional field validation study on consecutive adults with confirmed HIV diagnosis attending three outpatient clinics. Both RDTs were performed on capillary blood (CB), obtained by finger prick, and sera, by venipuncture. A combination of treponemal enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Treponema pallidum haemagglutination assay (TPHA) on serum samples was the reference standard. Rapid plasma reagin (RPR) and clinical criteria were added to define active syphilis. Sensitivity and specificity, predictive values and likelihood ratios (LR) of RDTs were estimated with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Stratified analyses by sample type, patient characteristics, non-treponemal titers, operator and re-training were performed.

Results

244 PLWH were enrolled, of whom 112 (46%) had positive treponemal reference tests and 26/234 (11.1%) had active syphilis. The sensitivities of Bioline on CB and sera were similar (96.4% vs 94.6%, p = 0.6). In contrast, Determine had a lower sensitivity on CB than sera (87.5% vs 99.1%, p<0.001). Sensitivities were lower in PLWH not receiving ART (Bioline 87.1% and Determine 64.5%, p<0.001) and for one of the operators (Bioline 85% and Determine 60%, p<0.001). Specificities of the RDTs were > 95% in most analyses. Predictive values were 90% or higher. For active syphilis, the RDTs showed a similar performance pattern but with decreased specificities.

Conclusion

The studied RDTs have an excellent performance in PLWH to screen for syphilis and potentially for active syphilis, yet Determine performs better on sera than CB. Patient characteristics and potential difficulties operators may face in acquiring enough blood volume from finger pricks should be considered for the implementation and the interpretation of RDTs.
Anticancer derivative of the natural alkaloid, theobromine, inhibiting EGFR protein: Computer-aided drug discovery approach
Authors: Eissa Ibrahim H. , Yousef Reda G. , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Alsfouk Aisha A. , Husein Dalal Z. , Ibrahim Ibrahim M. , Alesawy Mohamed S. , Elkady Hazem , Metwaly Ahmed M.
Published: March 2023

A new semisynthetic derivative of the natural alkaloid, theobromine, has been designed as a lead antiangiogenic compound targeting the EGFR protein. The designed compound is an (m-tolyl)acetamide theobromine derivative, (T-1-MTA). Molecular Docking studies have shown a great potential for T-1-MTA to bind to EGFR. MD studies (100 ns) verified the proposed binding. By MM-GBSA analysis, the exact binding with optimal energy of T-1-MTA was also identified. Then, DFT calculations were performed to identify the stability, reactivity, electrostatic potential, and total electron density of T-1-MTA. Furthermore, ADMET analysis indicated the T-1-MTA’s general likeness and safety. Accordingly, T-1-MTA has been synthesized to be examined in vitro. Intriguingly, T-1-MTA inhibited the EGFR protein with an IC50 value of 22.89 nM and demonstrated cytotoxic activities against the two cancer cell lines, A549, and HCT-116, with IC50 values of 22.49, and 24.97 μM, respectively. Interestingly, T-1-MTA’s IC50 against the normal cell lines, WI-38, was very high (55.14 μM) indicating high selectivity degrees of 2.4 and 2.2, respectively. Furthermore, the flow cytometry analysis of A549 treated with T-1-MTA showed significantly increased ratios of early apoptosis (from 0.07% to 21.24%) as well as late apoptosis (from 0.73% to 37.97%).
Assessing the effects of therapeutic combinations on SARS-CoV-2 infected patient outcomes: A big data approach
Authors: Moradi Hamidreza , Bunnell H. Timothy , Price Bradley S. , Khodaverdi Maryam , Vest Michael T. , Porterfield James Z. , Anzalone Alfred J. , Santangelo Susan L. , Kimble Wesley , Harper Jeremy , Hillegass William B. , Hodder Sally L. ,   on behalf of the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) Consortium
Published: March 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the need for efficient and comprehensive, simultaneous assessment of multiple combined novel therapies for viral infection across the range of illness severity. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT) are the gold standard by which efficacy of therapeutic agents is demonstrated. However, they rarely are designed to assess treatment combinations across all relevant subgroups. A big data approach to analyzing real-world impacts of therapies may confirm or supplement RCT evidence to further assess effectiveness of therapeutic options for rapidly evolving diseases such as COVID-19.

Methods

Gradient Boosted Decision Tree, Deep and Convolutional Neural Network classifiers were implemented and trained on the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C) data repository to predict the patients’ outcome of death or discharge. Models leveraged the patients’ characteristics, the severity of COVID-19 at diagnosis, and the calculated proportion of days on different treatment combinations after diagnosis as features to predict the outcome. Then, the most accurate model is utilized by eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) algorithms to provide insights about the learned treatment combination impacts on the model’s final outcome prediction.

Results

Gradient Boosted Decision Tree classifiers present the highest prediction accuracy in identifying patient outcomes with area under the receiver operator characteristic curve of 0.90 and accuracy of 0.81 for the outcomes of death or sufficient improvement to be discharged. The resulting model predicts the treatment combinations of anticoagulants and steroids are associated with the highest probability of improvement, followed by combined anticoagulants and targeted antivirals. In contrast, monotherapies of single drugs, including use of anticoagulants without steroid or antivirals are associated with poorer outcomes.

Conclusions

This machine learning model by accurately predicting the mortality provides insights about the treatment combinations associated with clinical improvement in COVID-19 patients. Analysis of the model’s components suggests benefit to treatment with combination of steroids, antivirals, and anticoagulant medication. The approach also provides a framework for simultaneously evaluating multiple real-world therapeutic combinations in future research studies.
Enhancements in yield, agronomic, and zinc recovery efficiencies of rice-wheat system through bioactive zinc coated urea application in Aridisols
Authors: Shah Syed Shahid Hussain , Azhar Muhammad , Nadeem Faisal , Ali Muhammad Asif , Khan Muhammad Naeem , Ahmad Ijaz , Khurshid Muhammad Yasir , Hasnain Muhammad , Ali Zeeshan , Shaheen Ahmad Abu Al-Ala
Published: March 2023

Background

Zinc (Zn) deficiency and source-dependent Zn fertilization to achieve optimum Zn levels in rice and wheat grains remain global concern for human nutrition, especially in developing countries. To-date, little is known about the effectiveness of bioactive Zn-coated urea (BAZU) to enhance the concentration, uptake, and recovery of Zn in relation to agronomic efficiency in paddy and wheat grains.

Results

Field experiments were carried out during 2020–21 on the rice-wheat system at Lahore, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, and Multan, Punjab, Pakistan using four treatmentsviz.T1(Urea 46% N @ 185 kg ha-1+ zero Zn), T2(Urea 46% N @ 185 kg ha-1+ ZnSO433% Zn @ 15 kg ha-1), T3(BAZU 42% N @ 103 kg ha-1+ Urea 46% N @ 62 kg ha-1+ 1% bioactive Zn @ 1.03 kg ha-1) and T4(BAZU 42% N @ 125 kg ha-1+ Urea 46% N @ 62 kg ha-1+ 1% bioactive Zn @ 1.25 kg ha-1) in quadruplicate under Randomized Complete Block Design. Paddy yield was increased by 13, 11, 12, and 11% whereas wheat grain yield was enhanced by 12, 11, 11, and 10% under T4at Multan, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, and Lahore, respectively, compared to T1. Similarly, paddy Zn concentration was increased by 58, 67, 65 and 77% (32.4, 30.7, 31.1, and 34.1 mg kg-1) in rice whereas grain Zn concentration was increased by 90, 87, 96 and 97% (46.2, 43.9, 46.7 and 44.9 mg kg-1) in wheat by the application of BAZU (T4) at Multan, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, and Lahore, respectively, in comparison to T1. Zinc recovery was about 9-fold and 11-fold higher in paddy and wheat grains, respectively, under BAZU (T4) treatment relative to T2while, the agronomic efficiency was enhanced up to 130% and 141% in rice and wheat respectively as compared to T2.

Conclusion

Thus, T4application at the rate of 125 kg ha-1could prove effective in enhancing the rice paddy and wheat grain yield along with their Zn biofortification (∼34 mg kg-1and ∼47 mg kg-1, respectively) through increased agronomic and Zn recovery efficiencies, the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms of which can be further explored in future.
Transition between preclinical and clinical training: Perception of dental students regarding the adoption of ergonomic principles
Authors: Hallak Júlia Carrer , Ferreira Franciele de Souza , de Oliveira Caroline Anselmi , Pazos Júlia Margato , Neves Tamíris da Costa , Garcia Patrícia Petromilli Nordi Sasso
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the perceptions of third-year dental students regarding the application of ergonomic principles in the transition between preclinical and clinical training in Restorative Dentistry.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative observational cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of forty-six third-year dental students at São Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Dentistry, Araraquara. Data was collected using an individual interview recorded on a digital voice recorder. A script containing questions related to the process of adaptation of students to clinical care with a view to ergonomic work posture was used. Data analysis was based on the quali-quantitative technique of Discourse of the Collective Subject (DCS), using Qualiquantisoft®.

Results

Most students (97.80%) perceived the need for an adaptation period in the transition from the preclinic to the clinic regarding ergonomic posture requirements; a part of them (45.65%) claimed that they still could not adapt, primarily due to the difference between the laboratory and clinic in the workstation (50.00%). Some students suggested longer preclinical training in a clinical environment to facilitate this transition (21.74%). The dental stool (32.60%) and the dental chair (21.74%) were the external factors that contributed most to making this transition difficult. The difficulty of the restorative dentistry procedure (10.87%) also interfered with posture. Additionally, the most challenging ergonomic posture requirements in the transition period were maintaining 30 to 40 cm between the patient’s mouth and operator’s eyes (45.65%), positioning the patient in the dental chair correctly (15.22%), and working with the elbows close to the body (15.22%).

Conclusion

Most students perceived the need for an adaptation period in the preclinical transition to the clinic, attributing difficulties to adopt the ergonomic posture requirements, to use the workstation and to perform the procedures on real patients.
Task interruptions from the perspective of work functions: The development of an observational tool applied to inpatient hospital care in France The Team’IT tool
Authors: Teigné Delphine , Cazet Lucie , Mabileau Guillaume , Terrien Noémie
Published: March 2023

Background

In France, hospital units responsible for providing inpatient care have few opportunities to address the issue of task interruptions. In Australia, the Dual Perspectives Method (DMP) has been developed to assess interruptions. The method makes it possible to link teamwork and interruptions, by considering the work functions that constitute the system.

Objective

To develop a tool that can characterize interruptions from the point of view of work functions that is tailored to French hospital units providing inpatient care. The aim was to adapt the items recorded using the DPM and their response categories, and to study the acceptability of observing interruptions for participating teams.

Method

The items recorded in the DPM were translated and adapted taking into account the French definition of interruptions. This step identified 19 items that targeted the interrupted professional, and 16 that targeted the interrupting professional. The characteristics of interruptions were recorded in September 2019 among 23 volunteer teams in a region in western France. Two observers simultaneously observed the same professional. Observations lasted seven consecutive hours, and targeted all professional categories within the same team.

Results

The characteristics of 1,929 interruptions were noted. The observation period was well-received by teams. The following terminology regarding the work functions of the interrupting professional was clarified: “coordination of institutional resources”, in relation to “the establishment’s support processes”, “patient services”, and “the patient’s social life”. We believe that our categorization of response modes is exhaustive.

Conclusions

We have developed an observational tool, Team’IT, which is tailored to inpatient hospital care in France. Its implementation is the first step in a system to support teams in managing interruptions, and will enable them to reflect on their working methods, and whether interruptions can be avoided. Our work is part of an approach that seeks to improve and enhance the safety of professional practices, by contributing to the longstanding, complex debate about the flow and effectiveness of patient care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03786874 (December 26, 2018).
Association between parental absence during childhood and metabolic syndrome during adulthood: A cross-sectional study in rural Khanh Hoa, Vietnam
Authors: Manandhar Shrestha Rachana , Mizoue Tetsuya , Pham Thuy Thi Phuong , Fukunaga Ami , Hoang Dong Van , Nguyen Chau Que , Phan Danh Cong , Hachiya Masahiko , Huynh Dong Van , Le Huy Xuan , Do Hung Thai , Inoue Yosuke
Published: March 2023

Background

This study aimed to determine the association between parental absence during childhood and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adulthood among middle-aged adults in rural Khanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Given that broader literature on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) suggests a strong positive association between ACEs and cardiometabolic risk or diseases, we hypothesized that parental absence during childhood, which is a major component of ACEs, is more likely to cause MetS in adulthood.

Methods

Data were obtained from the baseline survey of the Khanh Hoa Cardiovascular Study, in which 3000 residents aged between 40 to 60 years participated. MetS was assessed using the modified Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria. It was considered parental absence if the participants had experienced parental absence due to death, divorce, or out-migration before three or between three to 15 years. We used multiple logistic regression analyses to examine the association between parental absence during childhood and metabolic syndrome during adulthood.

Results

There was no significant association between parental absence and MetS; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] was 0.97 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.76–1.22) for those who experienced parental absence between three to 15 years and the corresponding figure for those who experienced it before three years was 0.93 (95% CI = 0.72–1.20). No significant associations were observed when these were examined for the causes of parental absence.

Conclusion

This study did not support our hypothesis of an association between parental absence during childhood and metabolic syndrome during adulthood. Parental absence may not be a predictor of MetS among Vietnamese people in rural communities.
Quantitative analysis of calcium oxalate monohydrate and dihydrate for elucidating the formation mechanism of calcium oxalate kidney stones
Authors: Maruyama Mihoko , Sawada Koichi P. , Tanaka Yutaro , Okada Atsushi , Momma Koichi , Nakamura Masanori , Mori Ryota , Furukawa Yoshihiro , Sugiura Yuki , Tajiri Rie , Taguchi Kazumi , Hamamoto Shuzo , Ando Ryosuke , Tsukamoto Katsuo , Takano Kazufumi , Imanishi Masayuki , Yoshimura Masashi , Yasui Takahiro , Mori Yusuke
Published: March 2023

We sought to identify and quantitatively analyze calcium oxalate (CaOx) kidney stones on the order of micrometers, with a focus on the quantitative identification of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) and dihydrate (COD). We performed Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and microfocus X-ray computed tomography measurements (microfocus X-ray CT) and compared their results. An extended analysis of the FTIR spectrum focusing on the 780 cm−1 peak made it possible to achieve a reliable analysis of the COM/COD ratio. We succeeded in the quantitative analysis of COM/COD in 50-μm2 areas by applying microscopic FTIR for thin sections of kidney stones, and by applying microfocus X-ray CT system for bulk samples. The analysis results based on the PXRD measurements with micro-sampling, the microscopic FTIR analysis of thin sections, and the microfocus X-ray CT system observation of a bulk kidney stone sample showed roughly consistent results, indicating that all three methods can be used complementarily. This quantitative analysis method evaluates the detailed CaOx composition on the preserved stone surface and provides information on the stone formation processes. This information clarifies where and which crystal phase nucleates, how the crystals grow, and how the transition from the metastable phase to the stable phase proceeds. The phase transition affects the growth rate and hardness of kidney stones and thus provides crucial clues to the kidney stone formation process.
Chronic kidney disease, preoperative use of antispasmodics and lower resected prostate volume ratios are risk factors for postoperative use of adrenergic Alpha-blockers and antispasmodics
Authors: Hsueh Chen-Hsun , Chang Li-Wen , Chiu Kun-Yuan , Hung Sheng-Chun , Chen Jun-Peng , Li Jian-Ri
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) and laser prostate surgery are common surgeries for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). We conducted an investigation using hospital database to evaluate the clinical factors associated with post-operative usage of alpha-blockers and antispasmodics.

Methods

This study was conducted using retrospective clinical data from the hospital database, which contained newly diagnosed BPH patients between January 2007 and December 2012 who subsequently received prostate surgery. The study end-point was the use of alpha-blockers or antispasmodics for at least 3 months duration after 1 month of surgery. The exclusion criteria was prostate cancer diagnosed before or after the surgery, recent transurethral surgeries, history of open prostatectomy, and history of spinal cord injury. Clinical parameters, including age, body mass index, preoperative prostate specific antigen value, comorbidities, preoperative usage of alpha-blockers, anstispasmodics and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, surgical methods, resected prostate volume ratios, and preoperative urine flow test results, were evaluated.

Results

A total of 250 patients receiving prostate surgery in the database and confirmed pathologically benign were included. There was significant association between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the usage of alpha-blockers after prostate surgery (OR = 1.93, 95% CI 1.04–3.56, p = 0.036). Postoperative antispasmodics usage was significantly associated with preoperative usage of antispasmodics (OR = 2.33, 95% CI 1.02–5.36, p = 0.046) and resected prostate volume ratio (OR = 0.12, 95% CI 0.02–0.63, p = 0.013).

Conclusions

BPH patients with underlying CKD were more likely to require alpha-blockers after surgery. In the meantime, BPH patients who required antispasmodics before surgery and who received lower prostate volume resection ratio were more liable to antispasmodics after prostate surgery.
Population-based real-world registry study to evaluate clinical outcomes of chronic graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Novitzky-Basso Igor , Schain Frida , Batyrbekova Nurgul , Webb Thomas , Remberger Mats , Keating Armand , Mattsson Jonas
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a serious immune-mediated complication after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but in patients with malignancy, cGVHD development is associated with superior survival. Lack of reliable biomarkers and clinical underreporting means there is insufficient understanding of cGVHD clinical outcomes and balance between cGVHD treatment and maintaining beneficial graft-versus-tumour effects.

Methods

We performed a Swedish population-wide registry study following patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT 2006–2015. cGVHD status was retrospectively classified using a real-world method based on the timing and extent of systemic immunosuppressive treatment.

Results

cGVHD incidence among patients surviving ≥6 months post-HSCT (n = 1246) was 71.9%, significantly higher than previously reported. 5-year overall survival in patients surviving ≥6 months post-HSCT was 67.7%, 63.3%, and 65.3%, in non-, mild, and moderate-severe cGVHD, respectively. Non-cGVHD patients had a mortality risk almost five-fold higher compared to moderate-severe cGVHD patients 12-months post-HSCT. Moderate-severe cGVHD patients had greater healthcare utilization compared with mild and non cGVHD patients.

Conclusion

cGVHD incidence was high among HSCT survivors. Non-cGVHD patients had higher mortality during the first 6 months of follow-up; however, moderate-severe cGVHD patients had more comorbidities and healthcare utilization. This study highlights the urgent need for new treatments and real-time methods to monitor effective immunosuppression after HSCT.
Light and electron microscopic features of preclinical pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Authors: Suwan Yanin , Kulnirandorn Tuangporn , Schlötzer-Schrehardt Ursula , Wongchaya Sattawat , Petpiroon Purit , Supakontanasan Wasu , Tantraworasin Apichat , Teekhasanee Chaiwat
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study sought to explore the features of the anterior lens capsule in patients with preclinical pseudoexfoliation syndrome (pPEX) via light microscopy (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Design

Cross-sectional, prospective, and observational case series.

Methods

We recruited consecutive patients with and without pPEX who underwent routine cataract surgery at Ramathibodi Hospital, between April 2018 and November 2020. pPEX can be characterized by pigmented spoke-wheel deposition (P) on the anterior lens capsule, midperiphery cleft/lacunae (C), faint central disc present within the photopic pupil (D), white-spoke pattern (W) noted at the midperiphery, and a combination of at least two signs (Co). LM and TEM were used to examine anterior lens capsule specimens for the presence of characteristic pseudoexfoliation material (PXM). The features of the anterior lens capsule in pPEX explored via LM and TEM were recorded.

Results

This study included a total of 96 patients (101 excised anterior lens capsules); among them, 34 (35 excised anterior lens capsules) exhibited pPEX signs (pPEX group) but 62 (66 excised anterior lens capsules) did not (control group). The patients had a mean age of 74 ± 7 (range, 58–89) years. LM and TEM revealed no definite PXM in any patient. In the pPEX group, LM analysis identified two capsule specimens with suspected PXM; PXM precursors were observed in 1 of the 34 excised capsule specimens analyzed via TEM. Furthermore, 39 eyes (59.09%) exhibited signs of true exfoliation syndrome (TEX) in LM analysis (12.82%, 25.64%, 10.26%, 10.26%, and 41.03% for patients exhibiting P, D, C, W, and Co, respectively). However, no TEX signs were observed in the control group. We found that the anterior lens capsules exhibiting C and D were significantly associated with TEX (odds ratio = 5.4 and 7.9; P = 0.007 and 0.004, respectively).

Conclusions

LM analysis revealed no definite PXMs were detected in the excised anterior lens capsules, whereas TEM analysis showed PXM precursors in one specimen (2.94%). Notably, a significant association was observed between C and D signs and TEX.
Health of children who experienced Australian immigration detention
Authors: Tosif Shidan , Graham Hamish , Kiang Karen , Laemmle-Ruff Ingrid , Heenan Rachel , Smith Andrea , Volkman Thomas , Connell Tom , Paxton Georgia
Published: March 2023

Background

Australian immigration policy resulted in large numbers of children being held in locked detention. We examined the physical and mental health of children and families who experienced immigration detention.

Methods

Retrospective audit of medical records of children exposed to immigration detention attending the Royal Children’s Hospital Immigrant Health Service, Melbourne, Australia, from January 2012 –December 2021. We extracted data on demographics, detention duration and location, symptoms, physical and mental health diagnoses and care provided.

Results

277 children had directly (n = 239) or indirectly via parents (n = 38) experienced locked detention, including 79 children in families detained on Nauru or Manus Island. Of 239 detained children, 31 were infants born in locked detention. Median duration of locked detention was 12 months (IQR 5–19 months). Children were detained on Nauru/Manus Island (n = 47/239) for a median of 51 (IQR 29–60) months compared to 7 (IQR 4–16) months for those held in Australia/Australian territories (n = 192/239). Overall, 60% (167/277) of children had a nutritional deficiency, and 75% (207/277) had a concern relating to development, including 10% (27/277) with autism spectrum disorder and 9% (26/277) with intellectual disability. 62% (171/277) children had mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression and behavioural disturbances and 54% (150/277) had parents with mental illness. Children and parents detained on Nauru had a significantly higher prevalence of all mental health concerns compared with those held in Australian detention centres.

Conclusion

This study provides clinical evidence of adverse impacts of held detention on children’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. Policymakers must recognise the consequences of detention, and avoid detaining children and families.
Effects of preharvest sprays of iodine, selenium and calcium on apple biofortification and their quality and storability
Authors: Wójcik Paweł
Published: March 2023

The low dietary intake of iodine (I) and selenium (Se) by humans leads to serious health and socioeconomic problems. Therefore, enrichment of plants with I and Se using fertilisers containing these micronutrients is commonly recommended. In this study, we examined the impacts of combined spraying of I as iodide or iodate, Se as selenite or selenate, and calcium (Ca) as Ca-chloride on the enrichment of ‘Red Jonaprince’ (Malus domestica Borth.) apples, as well as fruit quality and their storability. Sprays were applied 2 weeks before harvest at rates of 0.5 kg I, 0.25 kg Se and 7 kg Ca per ha. Trees not sprayed with these nutrients served as controls. The tested sprays caused leaf burn, but they did not affect the cold injury of buds and shoots. Those sprays had no effect on yield, fruit size and russeting or skin colouring. At harvest, sprayed apples contained about 50 times more I and Se and 30% more Ca than the control fruit. After storage, compared to the control fruit, sprayed apples were firmer, had more organic acids and were less susceptible to disorders, such as bitter pit, internal breakdown and decay caused by Neofabraea spp. The results indicate that preharvest spraying with I, Se and Ca at high rates can be recommended to effectively enrich apples with I and Se and to simultaneously improve their storability.
Testicular histone hyperacetylation in mice by valproic acid administration affects the next generation by changes in sperm DNA methylation
Authors: Sakai Kazuya , Hara Kenshiro , Tanemura Kentaro
Published: March 2023

Various studies have described epigenetic inheritance through sperms. However, the detailed mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we focused on DNA methylation in mice treated with valproic acid (VPA), an inducer of epigenomic changes, and analyzed the treatment effects on the sperm from the next generation of mice. The administration of 200 mg/kg/day VPA to mice for 4 weeks caused transient histone hyperacetylation in the testes and DNA methylation changes in the sperm, including promoter CpGs of genes related to brain function. Oocytes fertilized with VPA-treated mouse sperm showed methylation fluctuations at the morula stage. Pups that were fathered by these mice also showed behavioral changes in the light/dark transition test after maturation. Brain RNA-seq of these mice showed that the expression of genes related to neural functions were altered. Comparison of the sperm DNA methylation status of the next generation of mice with that of the parental generation revealed the disappearance of methylation changes observed in the sperm of the parental generation. These findings suggest that VPA-induced histone hyperacetylation may have brain function-related effects on the next generation through changes in sperm DNA methylation.
3D-printed eye model: Simulation of intraocular pressure
Authors: Kobashi Hidenaga , Kobayashi Masaaki
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To develop artificial eye models using 3D printing and to evaluate the correlation between different corneal thicknesses and intraocular pressures (IOPs).

Methods

We designed 7 artificial eye models using a computer-aided design system and fabricated them using 3D printing. Corneal curvature and axial length were based on the Gullstrand eye model. Hydrogels were injected into the vitreous cavity, and seven different corneal thicknesses (200 to 800 μm) were prepared. In this proposed design, we also produced different corneal stiffnesses. A Tono-Pen AVIA tonometer was used by the same examiner to perform five consecutive IOP measurements in each eye model.

Results

Different eye models were ideally created using 3D printing. IOP measurements were successfully performed in each eye model. The corneal thickness was significantly correlated with IOP (R2 = 0.927; 𝑃<0.001).

Conclusion

The 3D-printed eye model is useful for evaluating IOP measurements. This technique might be a promising alternative to the conventional porcine eye model.
A perszonalizáció jelentősége a marketingben
Authors: Szabó Tamás , Szűcs Róbert Sándor
Published: March 2023

Napjainkban egy vállalat sikeressége azon múlhat, hogy képes-e információhoz jutni a jelenlegi vagy potenciális fogyasztóiról. Az információ sikerkritériummá vált az elmúlt időszakban. Manapság már nem az az elvárás egy vállalattal szemben, hogy általános, standard terméket gyártson, ami gyakran nem képes maradéktalanul megfelelni a fogyasztói igényeknek. A kihívást és egyben a megoldást a perszonalizáció, vagyis a személyre szabott termékek jelentik. Egy perszonalizált terméket a fogyasztó saját maga tervez meg, pl. az internet adta lehetőségeket kihasználásával. Szekunder és primer kutatásunk rávilágít arra, hogy napjainkban a perszonalizáció már nem csupán a nagyvállalatok privilégiuma, hanem KKV-k számára is reális lehetőség. Ma már egy kis cukorka (M&M’s) vagy egy sportcipő (GT) is személyre szabható. A nyilvánvaló előnyök mellett a perszonalizáció kihívásokat is tartogat, úgymint a gyártási technológia vagy a személyes adatok védelme.
Increased Risk of Hospitalization, Surgery, and Venous Thromboembolism Among Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Malnutrition in a Large, Community-Based Health Care System
Authors: Fine Liat S. , Zhu Shiyun , Shirazi Aida , Lee Jeffrey K. , Velayos Fernando S.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) constitute a high-risk population for malnutrition. Routine screening with standardized tools is recommended but can be challenging. Outcome data specific to IBD are sparse.

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective cohort study (2009–2019) and electronically screened a large community-based population with IBD for malnutrition risk by extracting height and longitudinal weight, data elements used in the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST). We used Cox proportional hazards regression to evaluate whether an electronic medical record–derived modified MUST malnutrition risk score was associated with IBD-related hospitalization, surgery, and venous thromboembolism.

RESULTS:

Malnutrition risk was categorized as low in 10,844 patients with IBD (86.5%), medium in 1,135 patients (9.1%), and high in 551 patients (4.4%). In the 1-year follow-up period, medium and high malnutrition risks, compared with low risk, were associated with IBD-related hospitalization (medium-risk adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34–2.42; high-risk aHR 1.90, 95% CI 1.30–2.78) and IBD-related surgery (medium risk aHR 2.28, 95% CI 1.60–3.26; high risk aHR 2.38, 95% CI 1.52–3.73). Only high malnutrition risk was associated with venous thromboembolism (aHR 2.79, 95% CI 1.33–5.87).

DISCUSSION:

Malnutrition risk is significantly associated with IBD-related hospitalization, surgery, and venous thromboembolism. Application of the MUST score to the electronic medical record can efficiently identify patients at risk for malnutrition and adverse outcomes, permitting concentration of nutritional and nonnutritional resources to those at greatest risk.
On the Problem of Singular Limit
Authors: Caggio M. , Ducomet B. , Nečasová Š. , Tang T.
Published: March 2023

We consider the problem of singular limit of the compressible Euler system confined to a straight layer Ωδ = (0, δ)×R², δ > 0. In the regime of low Mach number limit and reduction of dimension the convergence to the strong solution of the 2D incompressible Euler system is shown.
Condensation Growth of Water Droplets
Authors: Hric V. , Halama J.
Published: March 2023

The paper presents derivation and numerical solution of complex three-layer droplet growth model during nonequilibrium condensation of water. The model can be applied in the full range of Knudsen number. It is presented with respect to real gas equation of state and it completely relies on IAPWS equations for particular thermodynamic properties. The paper also presents a possible way the very popular explicit Gyarmathy and Young droplet growth models can be derived from this complex model. The comparison of these growth models is presented at low and high-pressure condition. Comparison with experimental data is shown as well.
Computational Analysis of Potential Vorticity and Quasi-Geostrophic Approximation for the Quasi-Hydrostatics Thermal Rotating Shallow Water Equations
Authors: Jean-Louis K. M. , Lollchund R. M. , Giraldo F. X.
Published: March 2023

A novel idealized and incompressible fluid flow governing model is introduced, namely, the two-dimensional quasi-hydrostatics thermal rotating shallow water equations. The potential vorticity for the new model is computationally analyzed through the Hamiltonian formulation of the Eulerian variables using the noncanonical Poisson brackets. Both similarities and differences are observed between the new and standard shallow models.
Two Shock Waves Self-Induced Oscillations over Naca 0012 Airfoil at Low Angles of Attack
Authors: Polevoy O. B. , Redchyts D. O.
Published: March 2023

The self-oscillations mode of two shock waves in a transonic turbulent flow around a NACA 0012 airfoil at low angles of attack is studied numerically. The physical features of the occurrence of self-oscillations are discussed, as well as their difference from other stationary and non-stationary modes of the transonic flow around the NACA 0012 airfoil. An updated map of the transonic turbulent flow regimes around the NACA 0012 airfoil on the plane free-stream Mach number angle of attack is presented.
Runge-Kutta Discontinuous Galerkin Method Applied to Shallow Water Equations
Authors: Poussel C. , Ersoy M. , Golay F. , Mannes Y.
Published: March 2023

This work is devoted to the numerical simulation of Shallow Water Equations using Runge-Kutta Discontinuous Galerkin methods. Such methods were implemented in the framework of adaptive mesh refinement method using a block-based approach. The space and time discretization using the Runge-Kutta Discontinuous Galerkin approach is applied to nonlinear hyperbolic Shallow Water Equations. Increasing the order of approximation, spurious oscillations appear and are addressed using moment limiters. Finally, the solver is validated with a one-dimensional dam-break problem and its behavior is tested solving a two-dimensional benchmark.
Formation of the Thermocline in Storage Tanks
Authors: Voropaiev G. , Baskova O. , Dimitrieva N.
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a numerical analysis of the influence of the supplying a cold coolant in a cylindrical storage tank technical device`s parameters on the size and structure of the emerging thermocline is performed. Modeling of thermal and hydrodynamic processes was carried out on the basis of solving the non-stationary system of Navier-Stokes equations for an incompressible thermocline fluid and the heat transfer equation at Reynolds numbers ~ 3·10⁴. The initial stage of thermocline formation is considered: from the beginning of the cold coolant inflow to the moment of formation of linear density (temperature) stratification. The stages of thermocline formation on the horizontal bottom of the storage tank are demonstrated depending on the distance of the cold coolant supply device from the bottom of the tank. The dependence of the thermocline thickness on this distance is shown for a fixed ratio of the horizontal cross-sectional area of the tank to the flow area of the feeder.