bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergent selection predating the Last Glacial Maximum mainly acted on macro‐phenotypes in Norway spruce
Authors: Tiret Mathieu , Olsson Lars , Grahn Thomas , Karlsson Bo , Milesi Pascal , Lascoux Martin , Lundqvist Sven‐Olof , García‐Gil Maria Rosario
Published: December 2022

The current distribution and population structure of many species were, to a large extent, shaped by cycles of isolation in glacial refugia and subsequent population expansions. Isolation in and postglacial expansion through heterogeneous environments led to either neutral or adaptive divergence. Norway spruce is no exception, and its current distribution is the consequence of a constant interplay between evolutionary and demographic processes. We investigated population differentiation and adaptation of Norway spruce for juvenile growth, diameter of the stem, wood density, and tracheid traits at breast height. Data from 4461 phenotyped and genotyped Norway spruce from 396 half‐sib families in two progeny tests were used to test for divergent selection in the framework of QST vs. FST. We show that the macroscopic resultant trait (stem diameter), unlike its microscopic components (tracheid dimensions) and juvenile growth, was under divergent selection that predated the Last Glacial Maximum. Altogether, the current variation in these phenotypic traits in Norway spruce is better explained by local adaptation to ancestral environments than to current ones, where populations were partly preadapted, mainly through growth‐related traits.
Identifying possible thresholds for nonstructural carbohydrates in the insulin dysregulated horse
Authors: Macon Erica Lyn , Harris Patricia , Bailey Simon , Caldwell Barker Ashley , Adams Amanda
Published: December 2022

Background

Identifying intake levels of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSCs) that limit the postprandial insulinaemic response in the insulin dysregulated (ID) horse may help reduce hyperinsulinaemia‐associated laminitis (HAL) risk.

Objective

To determine if ID horses have thresholds for pure sources of starch and sugar, above which there is an augmented insulin response.

Study design

Randomised crossover experiment.

Methods

Fourteen adult horses (6 ID and 8 noninsulin dysregulated, NID; matched for bodyweight) were randomly fed eight dietary treatments. Dietary treatments were formulated using a base of low‐nonstructural carbohydrate pellet (LNSC; 0.04 g of water‐soluble carbohydrates (WSCs)/kg bwt and 0.01 g of starch/kg bwt), to which pure sugar (dextrose) or starch (50:50 mix of waxy‐maize and oat starch powder) sources were titrated to create diets with increasing amounts of either WSC (0.06–0.17 g WSC/kg bwt), or starch (0.03–0.1 g starch/kg bwt). Horses were fed each dietary treatment at a rate of 1 g/kg bwt once over 12 weeks. Serial blood samples were collected pre‐ and up to 240 min postprandially. Insulin was determined via RIA and diet analytes were determined via wet chemistry. Statistical analysis was performed with a mixed effect model. Positive incremental area under the curve for insulin (IAUCi) was calculated for all horses and dietary treatments.

Results

There was no significant effect of diet in NID horses but diets with NSC >0.1 g/kg bwt produced an augmented response in ID horses compared with the LNSC (p < 0.05). ID horses IAUCi were also significantly different to all NID IAUCi for diets with NSC >0.1 g/kg (p < 0.04). Apparent thresholds for sugar and starch addition varied.

Conclusions

Based on this study, using supplemental pure starch and sugar sources, ID horses seem to have an apparent threshold for NSC of around 0.1 g/kg bwt/meal, above which significantly increased insulin responses are seen compared with NID horses.
People‐watching and urban life: Toward a research agenda
Authors: Jayne Mark
Published: December 2022

Taking inspiration from studies of ‘seeing‐and‐being‐seen’ at the vanguard of intellectual debates regarding urban life since the late‐eighteenth century, this paper explores the popular contemporary pastime of people‐watching. Drawing on cumulative theoretical, empirical, and methodological resources generated by generations of critical urbanists I highlight the ways in which geographies of people‐watching is a topic deserving of sustained academic attention. More specifically, I explore how engagement with rhythm, repetition, habit and events, testimony, and protocols offer fruitful avenues to interrogate everyday practices, mundane conversations and internalized un‐spoken dialectics that constitutes people‐watching. Concluding remarks signpost how a research agenda focused on people‐watching can add value to long‐standing and newly emerging urban geographies.
Pancreas fat content, insulin homeostasis and circulating endothelial microparticles in male essential hypertensive patients
Authors: Alfaro‐Lara Verónica , Muñoz‐Hernández Rocío , Giménez‐Miranda Luis , Beltrán‐Romero Luis , Castell‐Montsalve Francisco Javier , Stiefel Pablo
Published: December 2022

The pancreas fat content has been poorly investigated in essential hypertension. The authors aim to relate pancreas and liver fat content with parameters measuring insulin resistance, beta‐cell function and also with markers of endothelial dysfunction and platelet or endothelial cell destruction. The authors studied a group of 40 male hypertensive patients with well‐controlled blood pressure, maintaining a stable weight, and having not changed their medication during the last year. Pancreas fat content was correlated with HOMA‐IR (r = .616, p < .001), HOMA‐S (r = −.439, p < .005), beta cell function parameter (r = .457, p < .005), and QUICKI (r = .412, p < .01), whereas liver fat was not patients in the highest quartile of pancreas fat content had more circulating endothelial microparticles than patients in the other quartiles (median 129 [94.3–200] vs. 60.9 [49.4–88.8], p = .002). However, patients in the highest quartile of the pancreas fat content distribution did not differ from the lowest in hyperemic response after ischemia nor circulating platelet microparticles count. Liver fat content was not related to any of the parameters studied. In a multivariate stepwise binary logistic regression analysis (Wald Method) circulating endothelial microparticles remain significantly associated with pancreas fat content after adjusting for confounding factors, such as tobacco, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, or metabolic syndrome. Our results reflect that in essential hypertension, pancreas fat content is superior to liver fat to study beta‐cell functionality and insulin resistance. Moreover, the authors described for the first time that pancreas fat content is related to endothelial cell destruction. Further studies are needed to confirm this point.
Single‐cell RNA‐seq of Lotus japonicus provide insights into identification and function of root cell types of legume
Authors: Sun Zhanmin , Jiang Sanjie , Wang Dan , Li Linxia , Liu Boxin , Ran Qifan , Hu Lizhen , Xiong Junbo , Tang Yixiong , Gu Xiaofeng , Wu Yanmin , Liang Zhe
Published: December 2022

The roots of legume plant play a crucial role in nitrogen fixation. However, the transcriptomes of different cell types of legume root and their functions remain largely unknown. Here, we performed single‐cell RNA sequencing and profiled more than 22,000 single cells from root tips of Lotus japonicus, a model species of legume. We identified seven clusters corresponding to seven major cell types, which were validated by in situ hybridization. Further analysis revealed regulatory programs including phytohormone and nodulation associated with specific cell types, and revealed conserved and diverged features for the cell types. Our results represent the first single‐cell resolution transcriptome for legume root tips and a valuable resource for studying the developmental and physiological functions of various cell types in legumes.
Small Business Equity Returns: Empirical Evidence from the Business Credit Card Securitization Market
Authors: FLECKENSTEIN MATTHIAS , LONGSTAFF FRANCIS A.
Published: December 2022

We present a new approach for estimating small business equity returns. This approach applies the Merton (1974) credit model to the returns on entrepreneurial business credit card debt securitizations and solves for the implied equity returns for the small businesses owned by the cardholders. The estimated small business equity premium is 10.74%. The standard deviation of small business equity returns is 56.37%. We validate the methodology by applying it to investment‐grade corporate bonds and recovering a public equity premium of 6.17%.
A cybernetic theory of autism: Autism as a consequence of low trait plasticity
Authors: Rogers Matthew A. , Elison Jed T. , Blain Scott D. , DeYoung Colin G.
Published: December 2022

Objective

According to Cybernetic Big Five Theory (CB5T), personality traits reflect variation in the parameters of evolved cybernetic mechanisms, and extreme manifestations of these traits correspond to a risk for psychopathology because they threaten the organism's ability to pursue its goals effectively. Our theory of autism as a consequence of low Plasticity extends CB5T to provide a cybernetic account of the origin of autistic traits. The theory argues that, because all psychological competencies are initially developed through exploration, typical development requires sensitivity to the incentive reward value of the unknown (i.e., the unpredicted). According to CB5T, motivation to explore the unknown is the core function underlying the metatrait Plasticity, the shared variance of Extraversion and Openness/Intellect. This theory makes predictions regarding the downstream developmental consequences of early low Plasticity, and each prediction maps well onto autistic symptomatology.

Method

We surveyed 387 people. Measures included the Autism Quotient (AQ) scale and International Personality Item Pool items that are indicators of Plasticity and Stability.

Results

The association between AQ and Plasticity was β = −.64.

Conclusion

A strong negative correlation between Plasticity and AQ suggests ASD may be closely linked to a low sensitivity to the incentive reward value of the unknown.
Impact of parental health literacy on the health outcomes of children with chronic disease globally: A systematic review
Authors: Zaidman Elaine A , Scott Karen M , Hahn Deirdre , Bennett Patricia , Caldwell Patrina HY
Published: December 2022

Aim

Health literacy is the ability to understand and interpret health information and navigate the health‐care system. Low health literacy is associated with poorer health knowledge and disease management, increased chronic illness, underutilisation of preventative health services and increased hospitalisations. The aim of the study is to review the available literature on the relationship between parental health literacy and health outcomes for children with chronic disease in high‐income countries (HIC) and low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC).

Methods

We systematically searched Medline, EMBASE and Web of Science, and assessed study quality using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. We reviewed all relevant studies, and identified themes using thematic analysis.

Results

Of 1167 studies assessed, 49 were included in the review. All studies were of adequate quality. Twenty‐two were from LMIC and 27 from HIC. Six themes were identified: Parental health literacy, parental education, socio‐economic conditions, identity and culture, family factors, and health behaviours. In both HIC and LMIC, lower parental health literacy was associated with poorer child health outcomes. Disease‐specific knowledge was found in a number of papers to directly impact parent health behaviour and child health outcomes, and may mitigate the effects of low parental health literacy.

Conclusion

There is a clear link between parental health literacy, health behaviour and health outcomes for children with chronic disease. Disease‐specific knowledge as a target for health‐care interventions holds promise for application in low‐resourced settings with parents (particularly mothers) who have lower health literacy, where disease‐specific education may improve child health outcomes, although more research is required to determine how we can best facilitate these programmes.
The influence of supragastric belching severity on esophageal acid exposure and motility
Authors: Sergeev Ilia , Velosa Monica , Mardare Roxana , Yazaki Etsuro , Sifrim Daniel
Published: December 2022

Background

Supragastric belching (SGB) is a phenomenon where air is rapidly sucked from the pharynx into the esophagus and immediately expelled through abdominal straining. It is considered a behavior disorder and is increasingly recognized not only in patients with excessive belching, but also in those with reflux‐like symptoms. Increased prevalence of esophageal hypomotility and increased acid exposure were previously reported in small cohorts of SGB patients. We aimed to clarify the impact of SGB on motility, reflux, and acid exposure in a large cohort of SGB patients.

Methods

In a single‐center database study, we searched for patients with pathological SGB. MII‐pH and Manometry tracings were manually re‐evaluated in all patients. Demographic, clinical, motility, reflux, and SGB‐related data were gathered.

Key Results

Three hundred and forty‐eight patients were included. Heartburn, belching, and regurgitation were the most common symptoms. Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) was found in 27% of patients. SGB related to 47% of all reflux and to 53.6% of acid reflux events, and accounted for 27.3% of acid exposure time (AET). In those with severe SGB, 62% of acid reflux events and 46% of AET were SGB‐related.

Conclusions & Inferences

Supragastric belching is common, associated with higher incidence of IEM and is responsible for almost a third of esophageal acid burden. The impact of SGB is proportional to its severity. Diagnosis of SGB should be sought in patients with excessive belching and in patients with refractory reflux symptoms. Recognizing SGB and treating patients with behavioral therapy may alleviate acid exposure and improve quality of life.
Pollination biology of Aristolochia bianorii Sennen & Pau: promoting cross‐pollination but assuring reproductive success in island ecosystems
Authors: Alpuente N. , Miranda M. Á. , Cursach J.
Published: December 2022

Deceptive pollination has been reported in the genus Aristolochia, but the floral biology and pollination strategy of A. bianorii, an endemic of the Balearic Islands, have not yet been studied. Here, we investigated floral anthesis, mating system, pollinators and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by its flowers.

Flower buds were marked and monitored daily to define floral stages and their duration. Experimental bagging and hand‐pollination were performed to test for autonomous self‐pollination, induced self‐pollination and cross‐pollination. Flowers were collected to analyse the presence of entrapped pollinators. VOCs emitted by flowers were evaluated by means of solid phase microextraction followed by immediate GC–MS.

Anthesis lasted between 63 and 96 h, and the species exhibited autonomous self‐pollination with moderate inbreeding depression. Pollinators were mainly females of Oscinomorpha longirostris (Diptera; Chloropidae). The number of pollinators inside flowers was affected by floral stage and time of flowering. The most common VOCs were alkanes, oximes, esters, alkenes, cyclic unsaturated hydrocarbons, isocyanates, amides and carboxylic acids.

Aristolochia bianorii can set seed by autonomous self‐pollination, in contrast to other Aristolochia species, in which both protogyny and herkogamy prevent autonomous self‐pollination. However, the species may encourage cross‐pollination by attracting female chloropid flies though emission of floral scents that may mimic an oviposition site and, possibly, freshly killed true bugs (i.e. Heteroptera). In conclusion, A. bianorii promotes cross‐pollination, but delayed autonomous self‐pollination assures reproductive success in the putative absence of pollinators.
Galectin‐3 interacts with PD‐1 and counteracts the PD‐1 pathway‐driven regulation of T cell and osteoclast activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Pedersen Kathrine , Nielsen Morten Aagaard , Juul‐Madsen Kristian , Hvid Malene , Deleuran Bent , Greisen Stinne Ravn
Published: December 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and bone erosions. The glycosylated programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) receptor plays an important role in regulating immune responses and maintaining tolerance. In this study, we focus on two features observed in RA: impaired PD‐1 signalling and Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) upregulation. We hypothesize that Gal‐3 binds PD‐1 and PD‐1 ligands, potentially contributing to impaired PD‐1 signalling. PD‐1 and Gal‐3 levels in RA synovial fluid (SF) and plasma were evaluated by ELISA. PD‐1 and Gal‐3 interaction was examined by Surface Plasmon Resonance and ELISA. PD‐1, PD‐L1 and Gal‐3 expression on mononuclear cells from SF and peripheral blood as well as fibroblast‐like synoviocytes were examined by flow cytometry. Effects of Gal‐3 and PD‐L1 on osteoclast formation was evaluated by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase assay. We show that Gal‐3 binds PD‐1 and PD‐L1. Results demonstrated high expression of PD‐1 and Gal‐3 on mononuclear cells, especially from SF. Gal‐3 inhibited PD‐1 signalling when PD‐L1 was present. Furthermore, a role of Gal‐3 in osteoclast formation was observed in vitro, both directly but also through PD‐1:PD‐L1 inhibition. Effects of Gal‐3 on the PD‐1 signalling axis are proposed to be inhibitory, meaning high Gal‐3 levels in the complex synovial microenvironment are not desirable in RA. Preventing Gal‐3's inhibitory role on PD‐1 signalling could, therefore, be a therapeutic target in RA by affecting inflammatory T cell responses and osteoclasts.
Developments in Regulating Outlet Valves
Authors: Hornsby G. J.
Published: December 2022

This paper covers briefly the step-by-step progress in the development of high-pressure regulating outlet valves, as experienced by the Bureau of Reclamation. The author describes the various designs of outlet valves now in use, points out some of the good and bad features of present design practice, and proposes some ways and means of preventing cavitation. The conclusions reached are confirmed by model tests. A new and radically different type of regulating outlet valve, which model tests indicate will be free from cavitation and will have unusually favorable stilling-pool characteristics, is described.
Results of Laboratory Embrittlement Testing of Boiler Waters
Authors: Straub F. G.
Published: December 2022

This paper reports the results of laboratory embrittlement testing of boiler waters as part of an investigation conducted under a cooperative agreement between the Utilities Research Commission, Inc., Chicago, Ill., and the Engineering Experiment Station, University of Illinois. The data presented have been released by permission of both institutions. The author briefly describes the testing apparatus and procedure. He then presents, in the form of curves, results of 1300 laboratory tests on power-plant boiler waters, completing the paper with a general discussion of the results.
Effectiveness of Kinesiotaping in Reducing Postoperative Knee Edema and Pain Compared to Other Standard Treatments: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Frey Erin , Ruszin Kayla , Hildebrand Emily E.
Published: December 2022

Focused Clinical Question: Does the application of kinesiotape compared with standard treatments result in greater/faster postoperative edema reduction after total knee replacement or anterior cruciate ligament repair?Clinical Bottom Line: There was sufficient evidence to support the application of kinesiotape to reduce postoperative edema brought on by a total knee replacement or anterior cruciate ligament repair. Patients who received kinesiotaping, applied to the skin with a pattern to enhance lymphatic drainage, showed significant decreases in postoperative knee circumference measurements and pain levels. Kinesiotaping application under these acute conditions offers an evidence-based approach for clinicians to optimize the physiological environment and promote progress through a patient’s phases of healing.
Gasdermins and pannexin-1 mediate pathways of chemotherapy-induced cell lysis in hematopoietic malignancies
Authors: Zhou Bowen , Ryder Christopher B. , Dubyak George R. , Abbott Derek W.
Published: December 2022

Pyroptosis is a mechanism of programmed, necrotic cell death mediated by gasdermins, a family of pore-forming proteins. Caspase-1 activates gasdermin D (GSDMD) under inflammatory conditions, whereas caspase-3 activates GSDME under apoptotic conditions, such as those induced by chemotherapy. These pathways are thought to be separate. However, we found that they are part of an integrated network of gatekeepers that enables pyroptotic cell death. We observed that GSDMD was the primary pyroptotic mediator in cultured blood cells in response to doxorubicin and etoposide, two common chemotherapies for hematopoietic malignancies. Upon treatment, the channel protein pannexin-1 (PANX1), which is stimulated by the initiation of apoptosis, increased membrane permeability to induce K
+
efflux-driven activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and GSDMD. However, either PANX1 or GSDME could also be the primary mediator of chemotherapy-induced pyroptosis when present at higher amounts. The most abundant pore-forming protein in acute myeloid leukemias from patients predicted the cell death pathway in response to chemotherapy. This interconnected network, a multistep switch that converts apoptosis to pyroptosis, could be clinically titratated to modulate cell death with regard to antitumor immunity or tumor lysis syndrome in patients.
A Natural Fungal Gene Drive Enacts Killing via DNA Disruption
Authors: Urquhart Andrew S. , Gardiner Donald M.
Published: December 2022

Natural gene drives have shaped the genomes of many eukaryotes and recently have been considered for applications to control undesirable species. In fungi, these loci are called spore killers.
Europium anomalies in detrital zircons record major transitions in Earth geodynamics at 2.5 Ga and 0.9 Ga
Authors: Triantafyllou A. , Ducea M.N. , Jepson G. , Hernández-Montenegro J.D. , Bisch A. , Ganne J.
Published: December 2022

Trace elements in zircon are a promising proxy with which to quantitatively study Earth’s long-term lithospheric processes and its geodynamic regimes. The zircon Eu anomaly reflects the crystallization environment of its felsic or intermediate parental magma. In particular, it provides insight into the water content, magmatic redox conditions, and the extent of plagioclase fractionation in the source rock or its occurrence as a cogenetic crystallizing phase from the magma. We performed a statistical analysis of Eu anomalies from a compilation of detrital zircons over geologic time and found a major decrease in Eu anomaly ca. 2.5 Ga and an important increase ca. 0.9 Ga. Coupled with thermodynamic modeling, we suggest that these variations could be due to long-term change in the chemical system of the mafic source from which the intermediate to felsic melt and derived zircons were produced. The 2.5 Ga drop was likely associated with an enrichment in incompatible elements in the mafic source, which extended the pressure-temperature field of plagioclase stability as a cogenetic melt phase. We interpret the 0.9 Ga rise to record increasing hydration of magmagenetic sites due to the general development of cold subduction systems, which would delay and/or suppress the saturation of plagioclase in hydrous magmagenetic sites.
Economic Development as a Challenge for “De Facto States”: Post-Conflict Dynamics and Perspectives in South Ossetia
Authors: Sebentsov A. B. , Karpenko M. S. , Gritsenko A. A. , Turov N. L.
Published: December 2022

The significance of economic factors in the emergence and development of “de facto states” remains insufficiently studied and debatable. This article deals with the case of South Ossetia, one of the six unrecognized republics that emerged in the post-Soviet space. Based on the study of statistical data, secondary sources and expert interviews with representatives of local authorities, business, and the academic community, the authors analyzed structural changes and the state of the economy of South Ossetia and views on development prospects in the context of state building. It has been shown that as a result of large-scale assistance from Russia, a structurally weak hyperservice economy has formed, whose key industries depend on government demand and Russian investments. Limited economic self-sufficiency, cross-border settlement of Ossetians and Georgians, as well as numerous family ties contribute to the emergence of a variety of cross-border practices (shuttle trade, smuggling, and peculiar payment systems) that reduce social tensions. The case of South Ossetia confirms that unrecognized status is not in itself an obstacle to economic development, but the lack of external legitimacy limits access to markets and creates difficulties for financial and trade transactions. As a result, Eurasian integration has become rather a source of problems for this republic, creating obstacles difficult to overcome for local businesses in trade with Russia, the only EAEU country that recognizes the Republic of South Ossetia as a sovereign state. As a result, economic problems, along with security issues, serve as a key argument for South Ossetia’s support for the idea of joining the republic to Russia.
Decreased macular deep capillary plexus is associated with functional progression of normal tension glaucoma patients with unilateral visual field loss
Authors: Lin Sigeng , Shang Xiao , Wang Xiaoyan , Chu Xizhong , Hu Chengju , Si Yuqing , Chen De-fu , Zhou Weihe , Kong Yu Xiang George , Liang Yuanbo
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To investigate whether quantitative optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) metrics of the superficial/deep macular retina are associated with the development of visual field (VF) loss in the fellow eyes of normal tension glaucoma (NTG) patients with unilateral VF loss.

Methods

A longitudinal study was conducted in which 61 eyes with normal VF (mean VF mean deviation −0.7±1.6 dB) from 61 NTG patients were included. All subjects underwent OCTA imaging, spectral-domain-OCT imaging and VF testing. OCTA metrics of superficial capillary plexus and deep capillary plexus (DCP) in the macular region were measured. Relationships between baseline OCTA metrics, demographics and ocular characteristics and the risk of VF glaucoma progression were analysed with a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 38 months, 11 fellow eyes (18.0%) with normal VF at baseline were determined to have VF progression, while 21.3% of affected eyes had VF progression. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, decreased baseline DCP in the fellow eyes was significantly associated with future VF progression (HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.73, p=0.031).

Conclusion

Decreased DCP was associated with a higher risk of developing VF damage in NTG patients with unilateral VF loss. Assessments of DCP may help improve the evaluation of the risk of functional deterioration in fellow eyes with an initially normal VF.
Quantitative analysis of choriocapillaris flow deficits and choroidal thickness in children with Marfan syndrome
Authors: Ng Kityee , Xu Pusheng , Jin Guangming , Cheng Weijing , Luo Xiaoling , Ding Xiaoyan , Zheng Danying , Liu Yizhi
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the characteristics and associated factors of choroidal thickness (ChT) and choriocapillaris flow deficit percentage (CC FD%) in children with Marfan syndrome (MFS).

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. The ChT of the subfoveal area and other areas 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 mm away from the fovea were assessed. The CC FD% of quadrant and circular regions with diameters of 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mm were assessed with 3×3 mm macular choriocapillaris images. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and cardiac function factor such as Z score were measured to analyse the associations with ChT and CC FD%.

Results

51 MFS children and 50 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Compared with the healthy controls, the ChT in the MFS group was thinner in the subfoveal area, temporal 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mm (all p<0.001). The CC FD% was higher in circle 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mm (all p<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that CC FD% in the circle 2.5 mm when the Z score ≥2 was associated with BCVA (β=9.08 (95% CI 3.96 to 14.20); p=0.005) and Z score (β=4.19 (95% CI 1.28 to 12.00); p=0.012).

Conclusions

Thinner ChT and a higher CC FD% were observed in children with MFS, and an increased CC FD% in circle 2.5 mm was significantly associated with worse BCVA and cardiac function. These findings may help identify future visual impairment and early cardiac events in MFS children.
School-based Hygiene Intervention to PreventHelicObacter Pyloriinfection among childrEn (SHIP HOPE): protocol for a cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zhou Mengge , Zeng Yuhong , Xi Yu'e , Luo Sitong , Qi Jing , Zhao Guanqi , Sun Yamei , Guo Yang , Cheng Feng
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Helicobacter pyloriinfection rates are high in China and worldwide, and maintaining good hygiene is effective in preventingH. pyloriinfection. Childhood is a critical stage for developing good hygiene practices. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore whether a comprehensive hygiene intervention can preventH. pyloriinfection in primary schools in China.

Methods and analysis

The School-based Hygiene Intervention to PreventHelicObacter Pyloriinfection among childrEn study is a cluster-randomised controlled trial, which will include approximately 2400 children in grades 2–4 from 60 classes in 10 primary schools of Linqu County, Shandong Province. Schools will be randomly assigned (1:1) via a computer-generated list, to receive either comprehensive hygiene intervention (intervention) or the usual health education lessons (control), with stratification by area (urban or rural). The interventions will include the following: (1) Children’s education: lessons and cartoon books designed to provide basic knowledge about hygiene,H. pylori, hand hygiene, diet and oral hygiene will be provided to children; (2) Caregiver’s education: children will be empowered to share hygiene-related knowledge with their caregivers as homework; caregivers will be also invited to the school for hygiene lessons; (3) School hygiene promotion: suggestions will be provided for improving the hygienic environment. Children in control schools will receive usual health education lessons according to the arrangements of each school. The primary outcome is the prevalence and incidence ofH. pyloriinfection among children at 1-year follow-up. The secondary outcomes areH. pyloriand hygiene knowledge, family eating customs and hygiene practices among children and their caregivers, as well as school absences owing to diarrhoea. Additionally, growth in children is set as an exploratory outcome. General linear mixed models will be used to analyse differences between the intervention and control schools.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained from the Institution Review Board of Tsinghua University (No: 20220020). Written informed consent will be obtained from each child and one of their caregivers. The findings of this study will be actively disseminated through scientific publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2200056191.
Cohort profile: Bladder Cancer Data Base Sweden (BladderBaSe) 2.0
Authors: Häggström Christel , Hagberg Oskar , Gårdmark Truls , Aljabery Firas , Ströck Viveka , Hosseini Abolfazl , Sherif Amir , Malmstrom Per-Uno , Söderkvist Karin , Ullén Anders , Jerlström Tomas , Jahnson Staffan , Liedberg Fredrik , Holmberg Lars
Published: December 2022

Purpose

We constructed Bladder Cancer Data Base Sweden (BladderBaSe) 2.0 to expand studies in BladderBaSe on incidence, treatment outcomes, side effects, survival and health economic aspects of men and women with cancer in the urinary bladder, upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) (renal pelvis and ureter) and urethral carcinoma.

Participants

BladderBaSe 2.0 includes 53 298 patients with cancer in the urinary bladder, diagnosed from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2019, and 961 patients with UTUC in the renal pelvis and 792 in the ureter, and 146 patients with urethral urothelial carcinoma, diagnosed from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2019, and in total 275 816 participants in reference groups, free of cancer in the urinary tract, matched 1:5 on sex, age and county.

Findings to date

To date, 18 published studies based on data from the BladderBaSe have investigated calendar time trends in survival; impact of gender, socioeconomic factors, tumour aggressiveness and hospital volume for radical cystectomy on prognosis; survival after radical cystectomy compared with radical radiotherapy; risk factors for complications and side effects after radical cystectomy such as thromboembolism, strictures of ureteroenterostomies and incisional hernia.

Future plans

The BladderBaSe initiators are currently investigating gender-dependent detection delays due to urinary tract infections; survival after non-muscle invasive bladder cancer with respect to the number of transurethral resections; short-term outcomes comparing open and robot-assisted radical cystectomy; studies on risk for intravesical recurrence after different diagnostic measures in UTUC, and suicide risk after bladder cancer diagnosis. The BladderBaSe project group is open for collaborations with national and international colleagues.
Presentation of benefits and harms in cancer screening guidelines for Koreans: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Han Mi Ah , Jung Jae Hung , Hwang Eu Chang
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Cancer screening guidelines should be based on the best available evidence, presenting both the benefits and harms of screening in a manner applicable to stakeholders. How the potential benefits and harms of screening are presented determine the intent of guideline developers and the delivery of recommendations. Therefore, we will systematically review the cancer screening guidelines for Koreans to evaluate the presentation and detailed ways of the benefits and harms of the recommended cancer screening practices.

Methods and analysis

To identify cancer screening guidelines for Koreans, we will search international electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Embase and domestic literature databases (Korean Studies Information Service System, Research Information Sharing Service, KoreaMED, Korean Medical Database, National Assembly Library and Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information) as well as guideline databases (Guideline International Network, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, Turning Research Into Practice medical database, WHO guidelines and Korean Medical Guideline Information Center), from inception to November 2022. We will include cancer screening guidelines for healthcare practitioners and patients. Furthermore, we will focus on the most updated guidelines when multiple versions of guidelines are available for a specific intervention and cancer pairs from the same development group. Two reviewers will independently and in duplicate conduct reference screening and data extraction. Data will be extracted based on recommendations from each guideline and how their benefits and harms are presented. The general characteristics of cancer screening guidelines, including cancer type, recommended screening methods, certainty of evidence, direction and strength of recommendation, will be collected. In addition, we will obtain key information on the presentation of the benefits and harms of screening interventions, including quantification of their relative and absolute effects of screening interventions. Finally, our findings will be presented descriptively, and a summary of the results will be provided.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required as we will only use published materials. We will disseminate our findings through publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Short-term socioeconomic status shift and long-term cardiovascular outcomes in China: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Lai Runmin , Li Ruiqi , Wang Tong , Ju Jianqing , Liu Qiyu , Zhang Jie , Song Luxia , Xu Hao
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Limited studies have discussed the effect of socioeconomic status (SES) shift on cardiovascular outcomes, especially in less developed regions and countries. We; therefore, explored the association between short-term SES shift and long-term cardiovascular outcomes in China.

Methods

In participants who had completed China Kadoorie Biobank study resurvey, 18 672 were included in the final analysis after excluding those who had cardiovascular diseases at baseline, and those who had a cardiovascular event before the resurvey. We used education, occupation, household income and healthcare cover as measurement of SES, and generated SES class for each individual at baseline and resurvey using latent class analysis. Outcomes of interest included cardiovascular death, major coronary event (MCE) and stroke. We used accelerated failure time model to obtain survival time ratio for each level of SES shift.

Results

During a mean time gap of 2.6 years, 10 273 (55%) individuals remained stable in SES, 7763 (41.6%) shifted towards higher SES and 636 (3.4%) shifted towards lower SES. Participants were followed up for a mean of 9.8 years. After adjusting for baseline factors, sharp but not moderate SES downshift was significantly associated with shortened event-free survival time before cardiovascular deaths (p=0.02) and MCEs (p<0.001) occurred. Contrarily, moderate and sharp SES upshift was significantly associated with prolonged event-free survival time before cardiovascular deaths (p=0.0027 and p<0.001) and MCEs (p=0.0079 and p=0.009) occurred.

Conclusion

Short-term SES improvement is associated with better long-term cardiovascular outcome in China. High baseline SES might buffer out some unfavourable impact brought by moderate SES downshift. More comprehensive strategies should be considered in policy-making for socioeconomic development.
Angiographic collateral venous phase: a novel landmark for leptomeningeal collaterals evaluation in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Consoli Arturo , Pizzuto Silvia , Sgreccia Alessandro , Di Maria Federico , Coskun Oguzhan , Rodesch Georges , Lapergue Bertrand , Felblinger Jacques , Chen Bailiang , Bracard Serge
Published: December 2022

Background

Although recanalization rates constantly increase (>80%), a favorable clinical outcome is achieved in only 45–55% of patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for anterior circulation stroke. Collateral circulation seems to play a major role in determining this discrepancy. The aim of the study was to investigate a novel angiographic landmark assessing the collateral venous phase (CVP) compared with the American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology (ASITN/SIR) score, based on the arterial collateral assessment.

Methods

Two hundred patients with anterior circulation stroke treated by MT between 2016 and 2021 were included. The ASITN/SIR score and the presence of CVP were blindly evaluated by expert neuroradiologists. Three subanalyses were performed comparing patients with good versus poor collaterals, CVP presence versus absence, and a composite analysis including both ASITN/SIR and CVP grading results.

Results

Good collateral circulation (ASITN >2) was observed in 113 patients (56.5%) whereas CVP was present in 90 patients (45%) and mostly in patients with good collaterals. Favorable clinical and neuroradiological outcomes were more likely observed in patients with both good collaterals and the presence of CVP than in those with good collaterals and absence of CVP (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2: 77.3% vs 7.9%, p<0.0001; mortality: 9.3% vs 26.3%, p=0.02; 24-hour Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score: 8 vs 6, p<0.0001), while ASITN/SIR score alone was not significantly associated with clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

The presence of CVP improves the angiographic assessment of collateral circulation. CVP could be proposed as a new imaging landmark to better understand the functionality of collaterals.
Outcome of endovascular thrombectomy in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing dialysis
Authors: Chen Kuo-Wei , Chen Chih-Hao , Lin Yen-Heng , Lee Chung-Wei , Tsai Kun-Chang , Tsai Li-Kai , Tang Sung-Chun , Jeng Jiann-Shing
Published: December 2022

Background

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are often excluded from clinical trials of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). This study investigated the outcome in these patients.

Methods

From September 2014 to July 2021, all patients undergoing EVT for anterior circulation stroke in two stroke centers in Taiwan were included. They were divided into no renal dysfunction (non-RD, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2), RD (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2but no dialysis), and ESRD undergoing dialysis (ESRD-dialysis). The clinical features and outcomes were compared.

Results

Of 482 patients included, there were 20 ESRD-dialysis, 110 RD, and 352 non-RD patients. The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), use of intravenous thrombolysis, EVT-related time metrics, and successful recanalization rates were comparable among the three groups. However, the ESRD-dialysis patients had more symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH, 15% vs 3.6% vs 3.7%), more contrast-induced encephalopathy (15% vs 1.8% vs 0.9%), and a higher mortality at 90 days (35% vs 18% vs 11%) than the other groups. Multivariable analysis revealed that ESRD-dialysis was associated with a less favorable outcome (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.77) and more severe disability or mortality (modified Rankin Scale 5 or 6; OR 13.1, 95% CI 3.93 to 48.1) at 90 days. In the ESRD-dialysis group, the patients with premorbid functional dependence had a significantly higher mortality than those without (75% vs 8.3%; P=0.004).

Conclusion

ESRD-dialysis patients were associated with symptomatic ICH and less favorable outcome at 90 days. Patients with premorbid functional dependency had an excessively high mortality.
Breaking with a dogma: persisting diffusion restrictions (pDWI) in follow-up after endovascular treatment for stroke
Authors: Hernandez Petzsche Moritz Roman , Boeckh-Behrens Tobias , Bernkopf Kathleen , Henze Simone , Maegerlein Christian , Sepp Dominik , Zimmer Claus , Wunderlich Silke , Ikenberg Benno , Berndt Maria Teresa
Published: December 2022

Background

Post-stroke diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) signal transformation of the infarct core, which results in high apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values and variable DWI signal intensity, is completed no later than 1 month after onset of ischemia. We observed frequent exceptions to this timeline of change in DWI signal, which led to uncertainties in further clinical patient management.

Methods

A prospective single-center study of patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy of a large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation was conducted. Patients received high-resolution MRI at 3T, including DWI, in the acute post-stroke phase and in the follow-up after 3–12 months.

Results

Overall, 78 patients (45 men) of mean age 63.6 years were evaluated. We identified persisting or new diffusion restriction in 29 of the 78 patients (37.2%) on follow-up imaging. Diffusion restrictions in a different location from the infarct core, representing new (sub-)acute ischemia, were observed in four patients (5.1%). Smaller areas of persisting diffusion restriction (pDWI lesions with high DWI signal and reduced ADC values) within the former infarct core were observed in 25 patients (32.1%) without clinical evidence of recurrent stroke, but with worse outcome scores at follow-up compared with patients without pDWI lesions. The presence of pDWI lesions is associated with a large primary infarct core (multivariate regression OR 1.03 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.05); p<0.01), mediating the relationship between pDWI lesions and clinical outcome.

Conclusion

Smaller foci of persisting diffusion restriction (pDWI lesions) in the follow-up after endovascular treatment for stroke are frequent and likely represent a slowed ADC signal progression within a formerly large infarct core.
As countries improve their cigarette tax policy, cigarette consumption declines
Authors: Ngo Anh , Drope Jeffrey , Guerrero-López Carlos Manuel , Siu Erika , Chaloupka Frank J
Published: December 2022

Background

This study examines the association between the Tobacconomics cigarette tax scores and cigarette consumption in 97 countries during the period of 2014–2020.

Methods

Data on countries’ retail cigarette sales and overall cigarette tax scores from 2014 to 2020 are drawn from the proprietary Euromonitor International database and the Tobacconomics Cigarette Tax Scorecard (second edition). Information on countries’ tobacco control environments and demographic characteristics is from the relevant years’ WHO Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic, and the World Bank’s World Development Indicators database. Ordinary least squares regressions are employed to examine the link between countries’ overall cigarette tax scores and cigarette consumption. All regressions control for countries’ tobacco control environments, countries’ demographic characteristics, year indicators and country fixed effects.

Results

Each unit increase in the overall cigarette tax scores is significantly associated with a reduction of 9% in countries’ per-capita cigarette consumption during 2014–2020. The reduction is more pronounced in low and middle-income countries (9%) than in high-income countries (6%). The modest improvement in scores from 2014 to 2020 is associated with a reduction of 3.27% in consumption, while consumption could have been reduced by 20.74% had countries implemented optimal tax policies that would earn the highest score of 5.

Conclusions

Our results provide evidence on the association between higher cigarette tax scores and lower cigarette consumption. To reduce tobacco consumption, governments must strive to implement all four components in the Cigarette Tax Scorecard at the highest level.
Relativistic equilibrium fluid configurations around rotating deformed compact objects
Authors: Faraji Shokoufe , Trova Audrey , Quevedo Hernando
Published: December 2022

The main goal of this paper is to investigate the physical properties of equilibrium sequences of non-self-gravitating surfaces that characterize Thick disks around a rotating deformed compact object described by a stationary generalization of the static $$\mathrm q$$
q
-metric. The space-time corresponds to an exact solution of Einstein’s field equations so that we can perform the analysis for arbitrary values of the quadrupole moment and rotation parameter. To study the properties of this disk model, we analyze bounded trajectories in this space-time. Further, we find that depending on the values of the parameters, we can have various disk structures that can easily be distinguished from the static case and also from the Schwarzschild background. We argue that this study may be used to evaluate the rotation and quadrupole parameters of the central compact object.