bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of prosody in interpreting causality in English discourse
Authors: Hu Na , Chen Aoju , Quené Hugo , Sanders Ted J. M.
Published: June 2023

Previous studies have well established that certain causal connectives encode information about the semantic-pragmatic distinction between different types of causal relations such as CAUSE-CONSEQUENCE versus CLAIM-ARGUMENT relations. These “specialized” causal connectives assist listeners in discerning different types of causality. Additionally, research has demonstrated that utterances expressing CLAIM-ARGUMENT relations exhibit distinct prosodic characteristics compared to utterances expressing CAUSE-CONSEQUENCE relations. However, it remains unknown whether the prosodic characteristics of utterances expressing causality can aid listeners in determining the specific type of causality being conveyed. To address this knowledge gap, this study investigates the impact of the prosody, specifically the prosody of the causal connectivesoin English, on listeners’ interpretation of the type of causality expressed. We conducted a perception experiment employing a forced-choice discourse completion task, where the participants were required to select a continuation for each sound clip they heard. The sound clip consisted of factual events followed by the causal connectiveso. We found that the odds of listeners choosing subjective continuations over objective continuations increased when the connectivesoat the end of the sound clip was pronounced with subjective causality prosodic features, such as prolonged duration and a concave f0 contour. This finding suggests that the prosody of the connectivesoplays a role in conveying subjectivity in causality, guiding listeners in interpreting causal relations. In addition, it is important to note that our data revealed individual variation among listeners in their interpretations of prosodic information related to subjective-objective causality contrast.
Novel limbal dermoid surgery for visual acuity and cosmesis improvement: A 7-year retrospective review
Authors: Jeong Jinho , Rand Gabriel M. , Lee Ju-Yeun , Kwon Ji-Won
Published: June 2023

Background

To report a long-term outcome of the novel combined surgical method of complete excision, corneal tattooing, and a sutureless limbal conjunctival autograft for limbal dermoid.

Methods

All patients who were referred to our clinic for limbal dermoid, and underwent a combined surgery of complete excision, corneal tattooing, and a sutureless limbal conjunctival autograft were retrospectively reviewed. The surgery was performed by one surgeon, and all clinical information was obtained during a seven-year follow up period. In all patients, surgical outcomes of cosmesis, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), and corneal/ocular astigmatism were obtained and compared preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results

During seven years, 24 patients (24 eyes) with limbal dermoid were finally enrolled. The mean age was 10.1±8.9 years old. The surgery resulted in an improved appearing ocular surface in all cases without any complications. There was no statistical difference in BCVA, corneal and ocular astigmatism between preoperatively and postoperatively (p = 0.231, 0.156 and 0.475, respectively). The mean SE was 0.12±3.19D preoperatively, and -0.21±3.02 D postoperatively with statistical significance (p = 0.037). Mean follow up period was 54.50 ± 15.62 months.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this study, our innovative surgical method which includes complete excision with corneal tattooing and limbal conjunctival autograft can be a simple and safe procedure that achieves long standing cosmesis with limbal dermoids.
Socializing social sampling models: The limits of explaining norm perceptions and biases with sampling from social circles
Authors: Giese Helge , Hoffmann Janina A.
Published: June 2023

People often overestimate the prevalence of unfavorable behavior. To explain these misperceptions, social sampling models propose that individuals infer the social norm from the behavior of their own social circle. We investigated this idea by asking a friendship network of college freshmen to report their own behavior and norm perceptions across eight domains at two timepoints (N = 104). Assessing this complete social network allows to directly test if sampling from the social circle shapes norm perception. Replicating previous findings, freshmen systematically misperceived the average social norm within their cohort. Yet, these misperceptions persisted even when individuals judged their own social circle, indicating that sampling from social circles does not fully explain normative biases. Moreover, cognitive modelling of norm perceptions suggested that individuals unlikely limited their search to their own social circle.
Cost of childhood cancer treatment in Ethiopia
Authors: Mirutse Mizan Kiros , Palm Michael Tekle , Tolla Mieraf Taddesse , Memirie Solomon Tessema , Kefyalew Eden Shiferaw , Hailu Daniel , Norheim Ole F.
Published: June 2023

Background

Despite the recent interest in expanding pediatric oncology units in Ethiopia, reflected in the National Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Control Plan (NCACCP), little is known about the cost of running a pediatric oncology unit and treating childhood cancers.

Methods

We collected historical cost data and quantity of services provided for the pediatric oncology unit and all other departments in Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) from 8 July 2018 to 7 July 2019, using a provider perspective and mixed (top-down and bottom-up) costing approaches. Direct costs (human resources, drugs, supplies, medical equipment) of the pediatric oncology unit, costs at other relevant clinical departments, and overhead cost share are summed up to estimate the total annual cost of running the unit. Further, unit costs were estimated at specific childhood cancer levels.

Results

The estimated annual total cost of running a pediatric oncology unit was USD 776,060 (equivalent to USD 577 per treated child). The cost of running a pediatric oncology unit per treated child ranged from USD 469 to USD 1,085, on the scenario-based sensitivity analysis. Drugs and supplies, and human resources accounted for 33% and 27% of the total cost, respectively. Outpatient department and inpatient department shared 37% and 63% of the cost, respectively. For the pediatric oncology unit, the cost per OPD visit, cost per bed day, and cost per episode of hospital admission were USD 36.9, 39.9, and 373.3, respectively. The annual cost per treated child ranged from USD 322 to USD 1,313 for the specific childhood cancers.

Conclusion

Running a pediatric oncology unit in Ethiopia is likely to be affordable. Further analysis of cost effectiveness, equity, and financial risk protection impacts of investing in childhood cancer programs could better inform the prioritization of childhood cancer control interventions in the Ethiopia Essential Health Service Package.
Differing natural killer cell, T cell and antibody profiles in antiretroviral-naive HIV-1 viraemic controllers with and without protective HLA alleles
Authors: Moyano Ana , Ndlovu Bongiwe , Mbele Msizi , Naidoo Kewreshini , Khan Nasreen , Mann Jaclyn K. , Ndung’u Thumbi
Published: June 2023

Previous work suggests that HIV controllers with protective human leukocyte antigen class I alleles (VC+) possess a high breadth of Gag-specific CD8+ T cell responses, while controllers without protective alleles (VC-) have a different unknown mechanism of control. We aimed to gain further insight into potential mechanisms of control in VC+ and VC-. We studied 15 VC+, 12 VC- and 4 healthy uninfected individuals (UI). CD8+ T cell responses were measured by ELISpot. Flow cytometry was performed to analyse surface markers for activation, maturation, and exhaustion on natural killer (NK) cell and T cells, as well as cytokine secretion from stimulated NK cells. We measured plasma neutralization activity against a panel of 18 Env-pseudotyped viruses using the TZM-bl neutralization assay. We found no significant differences in the magnitude and breadth of CD8+ T cell responses between VC+ and VC-. However, NK cells from VC- had higher levels of activation markers (HLA-DR and CD38) (p = 0.03), and lower cytokine expression (MIP-1β and TNF-α) (p = 0.05 and p = 0.04, respectively) than NK cells from VC+. T cells from VC- had higher levels of activation (CD38 and HLA-DR co-expression) (p = 0.05), as well as a trend towards higher expression of the terminal differentiation marker CD57 (p = 0.09) when compared to VC+. There was no difference in overall neutralization breadth between VC+ and VC- groups, although there was a trend for higher neutralization potency in the VC- group (p = 0.09). Altogether, these results suggest that VC- have a more activated NK cell profile with lower cytokine expression, and a more terminally differentiated and activated T cell profile than VC+. VC- also showed a trend of more potent neutralizing antibody responses that may enhance viral clearance. Further studies are required to understand how these NK, T cell and antibody profiles may contribute to differing mechanisms of control in VC+ and VC-.
Effects of bacterial composition and aquatic habitat metabolites on malaria vector larval availability in irrigated and non-irrigated sites of Homa Bay county, western Kenya
Authors: Orondo Pauline Winnie , Ochwedo Kevin O. , Atieli Harrysone , Yan Guiyun , Githeko Andrew K. , Nyanjom Steven G.
Published: June 2023

Gravid Anopheles malaria vectors depend on both chemical and physical (including microbial) cues for selection of preferred habitats for oviposition. This study focused on assessing the effects of bacterial composition and habitat metabolites on malaria vector larval availability in irrigated and non-irrigated potential larval sources. Water samples were collected from larval positive and negative habitats in the irrigated and non- irrigated areas of Homa Bay county. Bacteria cultured from the water samples were subjected to Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for species identification. DNA was extracted from the colonies and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing done. Finally, the metabolite composition of larval positive and negative habitats was determined. MALDI-TOF MS results revealed that Bacillus was the only genera identified from larval sources in the non-irrigated zone. In the irrigated area, Shigella was the dominant genera (47%) while Escherichia coli was the abundant species (13/51). Of the sequenced isolates, 65% were Bacillus. Larvicidal isolates Brevibacillus brevis, Bacillus subtilis, and Exiguobacterium profundum were isolated and grouped with Bacillus mojavensis, Bacillus tequilensis, Bacillus stercoris, and Brevibacillus agri. Irrigated areas with larvae had reduced crude fat (0.01%) and protein content (0.13%) in comparison to those without larvae. In irrigated and non- irrigated areas, larval presence was evident in habitats with high total chlorophyll content (1.12 μg/g vs 0.81μg/g and 3.37 μg/g vs 0.82). Aquatic habitats with larvae in both irrigated and non-irrigated areas exhibited higher sugar concentration than habitats without larvae; however, when compared, non-irrigated areas with larvae had higher sugar concentration than similar habitats in irrigated areas. In addition, substantial concentrations of Manganese, Calcium, and Copper were found in aquatic habitats containing larvae in both irrigated and non-irrigated areas. These results allow for prospective examination as potential larvicidal or adulticidal agents and could be considered when designing potential vector control interventions.
Incidence and determinants of hematotoxicity in acute lymphoblastic leukemia children who received 6-mercaptopurine based maintenance therapy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Awol Mekonnen , Adam Haileyesus , Hailu Daniel , Coenen Marieke J. H. , Howe Rawleigh , Abula Teferra
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The maintenance phase of acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment is the final and longest stage of treatment, mainly focused on antimetabolite therapy. This phase is essential to eliminate residual leukemic clones and prevent relapse. However, dose-limiting hematotoxicity is a major problem during this phase resulting in dose reduction or treatment discontinuation.

Objective

In this cohort study, the clinical features and risk factors of hematological toxicity during the maintenance phase of treatment were analyzed in pediatric patients from Ethiopia.

Methods

A total of 160 patients from Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital were included in the study of which 142 had sufficient data available for analysis. Patient characteristics as well as information about the care-givers, sides-effects as reported by the care-givers and clinical factors were collected. Bivariable followed by multivariable analysis was performed to investigate which factors were associated with hematological toxicity during the maintenance phase.

Results

During the first six months of maintenance phase treatment grade 4 neutropenia was detected in 52.8% of the patients. The risk of developing grade 4 neutropenia was increased by about two fold in children with the age of 6 years and less compared to those with the age of more than 6 years. Similarly, the rate of developing grade 4 neutropenia among children with less than 4,500 maintenance day 1 white blood cell counts was significantly higher than that of children with normal maintenance day 1 white blood cell counts (AHR 2.477, 95% CI = 1.461–4.200, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, child’s age and day 1 maintenance white blood cell/absolute neutrophil counts significantly affected the occurrence of grade 4 hematotoxicity. Close monitoring for white blood cell and absolute neutrophil counts during maintenance phase treatment is recommended for early diagnosis of hematotoxicity.
Mortality in patients with COVID-19 versus non-COVID-19- related acute respiratory distress syndrome: A single center retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Hsieh Yu-Hsiang , Chang Hou-Tai , Wang Ping-Huai , Chang Mei-Yun , Hsu Han-Shui
Published: June 2023

The pathophysiology of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19)-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) varies from other pneumonia-related ARDS. We evaluated whether the mortality rates differed for COVID-19 and non-COVID-19-related ARDS in the Asian population in 2021. This single center retrospective observational cohort study included patients with COVID-19 and non-COVID-19-related ARDS that required invasive mechanical ventilation. The primary outcome was all-cause in-hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay, ICU length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, and ventilator-free days (VFDs) during the first 28 days. A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed to correct potential confounders by age, obesity or not, and ARDS severity. One-hundred-and-sixty-four patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. After 1:1 propensity score matching, there were 50 patients in each group. The all-cause in-hospital mortality of all patients was 38 (38%), and no significant differences were found between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19-related ARDS (17 [34%) vs. 21 [42%], p = 0.410). Both groups had length of stay (30.0 [20.0–46.0] vs. 27.0 [13.0–45.0] days, p = 0.312), ICU length of stay (19.0 [13.0–35.0] vs. 16.0 [10.0–32.0] days, p = 0.249), length of mechanical ventilation (19.0 [10.0–36.0] vs. 14.0 [9.0–29.0] days, p = 0.488), and ventilator-free days during the first 28 days (5.5 [0.0–17.0] vs. 0.0 [0.0–14.0] days, p = 0.320). Immunocompromised status (Hazard ratio: 3.63; 95% CI: 1.51–8.74, p = 0.004) and progress to severe ARDS (Hazard ratio: 2.92; 95% CI: 1.18–7.22, p = 0.020) were significant in-hospital mortality-related confounders. There were no significant difference in mortality among both groups. Immunocompromised status and progression to severe ARDS are two possible risk factors for patients with ARDS; COVID-19 is not a mortality-related risk exposure.
Use of latent class analysis and patient reported outcome measures to identify distinct long COVID phenotypes: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Wong Alyson W. , Tran Karen C. , Binka Mawuena , Janjua Naveed Z. , Sbihi Hind , Russell James A. , Carlsten Christopher , Levin Adeera , Ryerson Christopher J.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

We sought to 1) identify long COVID phenotypes based on patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) and 2) determine whether the phenotypes were associated with quality of life (QoL) and/or lung function.

Methods

This was a longitudinal cohort study of hospitalized and non-hospitalized patients from March 2020 to January 2022 that was conducted across 4 Post-COVID Recovery Clinics in British Columbia, Canada. Latent class analysis was used to identify long COVID phenotypes using baseline PROMs (fatigue, dyspnea, cough, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder). We then explored the association between the phenotypes and QoL (using the EuroQoL 5 dimensions visual analogue scale [EQ5D VAS]) and lung function (using the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide [DLCO]).

Results

There were 1,344 patients enrolled in the study (mean age 51 ±15 years; 780 [58%] were females; 769 (57%) were of a non-White race). Three distinct long COVID phenotypes were identified: Class 1) fatigue and dyspnea, Class 2) anxiety and depression, and Class 3) fatigue, dyspnea, anxiety, and depression. Class 3 had a significantly lower EQ5D VAS at 3 (50±19) and 6 months (54 ± 22) compared to Classes 1 and 2 (p<0.001). The EQ5D VAS significantly improved between 3 and 6 months for Class 1 (median difference of 6.0 [95% CI, 4.0 to 8.0]) and Class 3 (median difference of 5.0 [95% CI, 0 to 8.5]). There were no differences in DLCO between the classes.

Conclusions

There were 3 distinct long COVID phenotypes with different outcomes in QoL between 3 and 6 months after symptom onset. These phenotypes suggest that long COVID is a heterogeneous condition with distinct subpopulations who may have different outcomes and warrant tailored therapeutic approaches.
Numerical study of granular flow in a slit funnel with a novel structure to avoid particle clogging
Authors: Peng Yi , Zhang Sheng , Wan Jiangfeng , Yang Yangyang , Tao Kewei , Ma LiDong , Yang Guanghui , Yang Lei , Wang Mengke
Published: June 2023

To solve the problem of particle clogging in slit funnels and to obtain a stable discharge flow rate, we proposed a new funnel structure, namely the slit baffle funnel. We conducted a systematic investigation using the discrete element method (DEM) to study the effects of funnel half-angle θ, outlet width W, and baffle height H on flow rate and flow pattern. We found that the proposed structure could effectively avoid particle clogging and guarantee a continuous and stable flow rate with small outlet width. Under the condition of H >3 d, a bigger flow rate was obtained at a smaller funnel half-angle. This new funnel structure could be applied to solve clogging problems associated with granular matter in the slit geometry in mining, agriculture, food, and pharmaceuticals.
Quantification of the neurochemical profile of the human putamen using STEAM MRS in a cohort of elderly subjects at 3 T and 7 T: Ruminations on the correction strategy for the tissue voxel composition
Authors: Gogishvili Ana , Farrher Ezequiel , Doppler Christopher E. J. , Seger Aline , Sommerauer Michael , Shah N. Jon
Published: June 2023

The aim of this work is to quantify the metabolic profile of the human putamen in vivo in a cohort of elderly subjects using single-voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. To obtain metabolite concentrations specific to the putamen, we investigated a correction method previously proposed to account for the tissue composition of the volume of interest. We compared the method with the conventional approach, which a priori assumes equal metabolite concentrations in GM and WM. Finally, we compared the concentrations acquired at 3 Tesla (T) and 7 T MRI scanners. Spectra were acquired from 15 subjects (age: 67.7 ± 8.3 years) at 3 T and 7 T, using an ultra-short echo time, stimulated echo acquisition mode sequence. To robustly estimate the WM-to-GM metabolite concentration ratio, five additional subjects were measured for whom the MRS voxel was deliberately shifted from the putamen in order to increase the covered amount of surrounding WM. The concentration and WM-to-GM concentration ratio for 16 metabolites were reliably estimated. These ratios ranged from ~0.3 for γ-aminobutyric acid to ~4 for N-acetylaspartylglutamate. The investigated correction method led to significant changes in concentrations compared to the conventional method, provided that the ratio significantly differed from unity. Finally, we demonstrated that differences in tissue voxel composition cannot fully account for the observed concentration difference between field strengths. We provide not only a fully comprehensive quantification of the neurochemical profile of the putamen in elderly subjects, but also a quantification of the WM-to-GM concentration ratio. This knowledge may serve as a basis for future studies with varying tissue voxel composition, either due to tissue atrophy, inconsistent voxel positioning or simply when pooling data from different voxel locations.
Pan-cancer analysis of the intervertebral-disc-degeneration-related innate immunity gene NAIP
Authors: Xu Wen-Bin , Kotheeranurak Vit , Chen Ding-Qiang , Sun Nai-Kun , Cai Di-Xin , Chen Chien-Min , Lin Guang-Xun , Rui Gang
Published: June 2023

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a progressive chronic condition that commonly causes low back pain. Cancer is among the primary reasons for deaths worldwide. Our purpose was to identify the characteristic genes of IDD and explore the potential association between IDD and cancer.

Methods

Immune cell infiltration and differentially expressed analysis were conducted utilizing data from the GSE124272 database. Enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was performed to explore the possible mechanisms underlying IDD development. Moreover, weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was applied to select IDD-related hub genes. The immune-related key genes were determined by intersecting DEGs, IDD-related hub genes, and immune genes. Subsequently, machine learning models based on these genes were built to identify and verify the characteristic genes. RNA sequencing and clinical data of 33 carcinoma categories were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The association between NAIP expression and prognosis was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier analysis. To gain a deeper understanding of the impact of NAIP in tumor immunotherapy, the association between NAIP and immune infiltration and two immunotherapeutic biomarkers were explored. Ultimately, the association between NAIP and immunotherapeutic response was investigated utilizing two independent cohorts.

Results

NAIP was identified as an immune-related characteristic gene between IDD and normal intervertebral disc tissue. In certain carcinoma categories, NAIP expression levels were elevated (4/33) and significantly correlated to the respective tumor stage (4/21). Survival analysis revealed that the expression levels of NAIP have prognostic significance in different cancer types. Generally, NAIP presented a strong association with immune cell infiltration and modulators. NAIP may influence immunotherapy effects through tumor mutational burden and microsatellite instability. No remarkable association between NAIP and immunotherapy response was found in either cohort.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to identify NAIP as an immune-related characteristic gene. Pan-cancer analysis revealed that NAIP could serve as a novel clinical prognostic marker and therapeutic target for a variety of carcinoma categories, reducing the risk of IDD in tumor patients.
Usability of a novel lateral flow assay for the point-of-care detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae: A qualitative time-series assessment among healthcare workers in South Africa
Authors: de Vos Lindsey , Daniels Joseph , Gebengu Avuyonke , Mazzola Laura , Gleeson Birgitta , Piton Jérémie , Mdingi Mandisa , Gigi Ranjana , Ferreyra Cecilia , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Peters Remco P. H.
Published: June 2023

Accurate and user-friendly rapid point-of-care diagnostic tests (POCT) are needed to optimize treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, especially in low-resource settings where syndromic management is the standard of care for sexually transmitted infections. This study aimed to assess the acceptability and usability of a novel lateral flow assay and portable reader for the point-of-care detection of N. gonorrhoeae infection (NG-LFA). This mixed-methods study was conducted as part of a diagnostic performance and usability evaluation of a prototype NG-LFA for detection of N. gonorrhoeae in symptomatic men and women at primary healthcare facilities in the Buffalo City Metro, South Africa. The Standardized System Usability Scale (SUS) was administered, and in-depth interviews were conducted among healthcare professionals (HCPs) and fieldworkers (FWs) at pre-implementation, initial use and 3- and 6-month study implementation to assess user expectations, practical experience, and future implementation considerations for the NG-LFA. Data collection and analysis was guided by the Health Technology Adoption Framework, including new health technology attributes, learnability, satisfaction, and suitability. The framework was adapted to include perceived durability. A total of 21 HCPs and FWs were trained on the NG-LFA use. SUS scores showed good to excellent acceptability ranging from 78.8–90.6 mean scores between HCPs and FWs across study time points. All transcripts were coded using Dedoose and qualitative findings were organized by learnability, satisfaction, suitability, and durability domains. Usability themes are described for each time point. Initial insecurity dissipated and specimen processing dexterity with novel POCT technology was perfected over time especially amongst FWs through practical learning and easy-to-use instructions (learnability). Participants experienced both positive and negative test results, yielding perceived accuracy and minimal testing challenges overall (satisfaction). By 3- and 6-month use, both HCPs and FWs found the NG-LFA convenient to use in primary health care facilities often faced with space constraints and outlined perceived benefits for patients (suitability and durability). Findings show that the NG-LFA device is acceptable and usable even amongst paraprofessionals. High SUS scores and qualitative findings demonstrate high learnability, ease-of-use and suitability that provide valuable information for first-step scale-up requirements at primary healthcare level. Minor prototype adjustments would enhance robustness and durability aspects.
Trends and outcome of statin therapy in dialysis patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Lee Myunhee , Hong Yu Ah , Myong Jun-Pyo , Lee Kyusup , Park Mahn-Won , Kim Dae-Won
Published: June 2023

Background

Although statins are an effective strategy for the secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in the general population, the benefits for dialysis patients are controversial. We sought to assess trends of statin use and evaluate outcomes of statin therapy in dialysis patients with different types of ASCVD.

Methods

This nationwide retrospective population-based cohort study using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service included adult patients (aged ≥ 18 years) undergoing chronic dialysis who had an initial ASCVD event in the time period of 2013 to 2018. Annual trends of statin use according to age, sex, and ASCVD types were analyzed. The association between 1-year mortality and statin use was examined using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses.

Results

Among 17,242 subjects, 9,611(55.7%) patients were statin users. The overall prevalence of statin use increased from 52.9% in 2013 to 57.7% in 2018; the majority (77%) of dialysis patients were prescribed moderate-intensity statins. The proportions of low- or moderate-intensity statin use were similar, but high-intensity statin use increased from 5.7% in 2013 to 10.5% in 2018. The use of the statin/ezetimibe combination has gradually increased since 2016. Statin use was independently associated with the reduced 1-year all-cause mortality after adjusting for confounding factors (hazard ratio [HR] 0.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.80–0.96, P = 0.004).

Conclusion

The prevalence of statin prescriptions in dialysis patients after ASCVD event increased from 2013 to 2018. Most patients received moderate-intensity statin. However, high-intensity statin and statin/ezetimibe combination therapy has remarkably increased. Statin use was associated with decreased 1-year all-cause mortality in dialysis patients with ASCVD.
Pterostilbene mediates glial and immune responses to alleviate chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced oxidative stress in nerve cells
Authors: Liu Peijun , Zhou Pan , Zhang Xinyue , Zhao Dong , Chen Hao , Hu Ke
Published: June 2023

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) induces oxidative stress in the brain, causing sleep disorders. Herein, we investigated the role of pterostilbene (Pte) in CIH-mediated oxidative stress in the brain tissue. A CIH mouse model was constructed by alternately reducing and increasing oxygen concentration in a sealed box containing the mouse; brain tissue and serum were then collected after intragastric administration of Pte. Neurological function was evaluated through field experiments. The trajectory of the CIH mice to the central region initially decreased and then increased after Pte intervention. Pte increased the number of neuronal Nissl bodies in the hippocampus of CIH mice, upregulated the protein levels of Bcl-2, occludin, and ZO-1 as well as the mRNA and protein levels of cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) and p-BDNF, and reduced the number of neuronal apoptotic cells, Bax protein levels, IBA-1, and GFAP levels. Simultaneously, Pte reversed the decreased levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and BDNF and increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum of CIH mice. Pte increased Th2 cells, Treg cells, IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β1 levels and decreased Th1 cells, Th17 cells, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL- 17A levels in activated BV2 cells and hippocampus in CIH mice. The protein levels of p-ERK1/2, TLR4, p-p38, p-p65, and Bax, apoptosis rate, MDA concentration, Bcl-2 protein level, cell viability, and SOD and GSH-PX concentrations decreased after the activation of BV2 cells. Pte inhibited gliocytes from activating T-cell immune imbalance through p-ERK signaling to alleviate oxidative stress injury in nerve cells.
Ability of high fat diet to induce liver pathology correlates with the level of linoleic acid and Vitamin E in the diet
Authors: Graham Dalton S. , Liu Gang , Arasteh Ailar , Yin Xiao-Ming , Yan Shengmin
Published: June 2023

Increased uptake of fat, such as through the ingestion of high fat diet (HFD), can lead to fatty liver diseases and metabolic syndrome. It is not clear whether certain fatty acids may be more pathogenic than others to the liver. Linoleic acid (LA) is the most abundant polyunsaturated fatty acid in the Western diet and its excessive consumption can lead to increased lipid peroxidation. We hypothesized that a high level of LA in HFD will contribute significantly to the hepatic steatosis and injury, whereas vitamin E (VIT-E) may reverse the effects from LA by inhibiting lipid peroxidation. To test this hypothesis, we fed mice with the following diets for 20 weeks: a standard low-fat diet (CHOW), HFD with a low level of LA (LOW-LA, 1% of energy from LA), HFD with a high level of LA (HI-LA, 8% of energy from LA), or HI-LA diet with VIT-E supplement (HI-LA + VIT-E). We found that the HI-LA diet resulted in more body weight gain, larger adipocyte area, and higher serum levels of triglycerides (TG) and free fatty acids (FFA) relative to the CHOW and LOW-LA diets. In mice fed with the HI-LA diet, severer hepatic steatosis was seen with higher levels of hepatic TG and FFA. Expression of genes related to lipid metabolism was altered in the liver by HI-LA diet, including fibroblast growth factor 21 (Fgf21), cluster of differentiation 36 (Cd36), stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (Scd1), and acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (Acox1). Liver injury, inflammation and fibrotic response were all enhanced in mice fed with the HI-LA diet when compared with the LOW-LA diet. Notably, addition of VIT-E supplement, which restores the proper VIT-E/PUFA ratio, significantly reduced the detrimental effects of the high level of LA. Taken together, our results suggest that a high level of LA and a low ratio of VIT-E/PUFA in HFD can contribute significantly to metabolic abnormalities and hepatic injury.
Strengths and weaknesses of the MABC-2 as a diagnostic tool for developmental coordination disorder: An online survey of occupational therapists and physiotherapists
Authors: Hadwin Kathryn J. , Wood Greg , Payne Sally , Mackintosh Christopher , Parr Johnny V. V.
Published: June 2023

The Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 (MABC-2) is the most widely used instrument for aiding the diagnosis of developmental coordination disorder (DCD). Despite being shown to have strong validity and reliability, it has received criticism for aspects of its scoring system, the lack of formal training, and its susceptibility to overlook higher functioning DCD children. To aid the development of future diagnostic tools and/or iterations of the MABC-2, the present study attempted to draw upon the experience of key stakeholders and determine the strengths and weaknesses of the MABC-2. Using a short online questionnaire, occupational therapists (n = 14) and physiotherapists (n = 3) with experience using the MABC-2 for DCD diagnosis completed a series of Likert scale and free-text questions. Braun and Clarke’s six-phase process to thematic analyses was used to identify main themes obtained across quantitative and qualitative data. Results indicate that whilst the MABC-2 is easy to administer and interpret, the scores can misrepresent true motor difficulties due to (a) daily variations in mental and physical state, (b) the reliance on non-functional tasks, (c) negative interference from parents, (d) changes in motor competency due to practice, and (e) a lack of formal examiner training to ensure the test is effectively lead. Further work is needed to more reliably determine how perceptions of the MABC-2 might vary across levels of expertise, profession, and cultural differences.
From “one big clumsy mess” to “a fundamental part of my character.” Autistic adults’ experiences of motor coordination
Authors: Gowen Emma , Earley Louis , Waheed Adeeba , Poliakoff Ellen
Published: June 2023

Altered motor coordination is common in autistic individuals affecting a range of movements such as manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination, balance and gait. However, motor coordination is not routinely assessed leading to undiagnosed and untreated motor coordination difficulties, particularly in adults. Few studies have investigated motor coordination difficulties and their impact from the viewpoint of autistic people. Therefore, the current study used FGs and thematic analysis to document the experience of motor coordination difficulties from the viewpoint of 17 autistic adults. Four main themes were identified. First, motor coordination difficulties were pervasive and variable, being present life-long and within multiple movements and affecting many aspects of life. Furthermore, the nature of the difficulties was variable within and between participants along with differing awareness of coordination ability. Second, participants described motor coordination as an active process, requiring concentration for most actions and at a level seemingly greater than other people. Third, motor coordination difficulties impacted upon social and emotional wellbeing by placing strain on relationships, prompting bullying and exclusion, putting safety at risk and causing a range of negative emotions. Fourth, in the absence of any support, participants described multiple learning and coping strategies. Findings highlight how it is essential to address the current lack of support for motor coordination considering the significant social and emotional consequences described by our participants. Further investigation of motor learning and interactions between sensory and motor performance in autistic adults is also warranted.
Barriers and facilitators to education access for marginalised non-citizen children in Malaysia: A qualitative study
Authors: Loganathan Tharani , Ong Zhen Ling , Hassan Fikri , Chan Zhie X. , Majid Hazreen Abdul
Published: June 2023

In Malaysia, marginalised non-citizen children are excluded from formal education at public schools. Recognising education as a fundamental human right, the barriers and facilitators to educational access among refugee and asylum-seeker, migrant, stateless and undocumented children in Malaysia were explored. Qualitative data were collected via 32 in-depth interviews with multiple stakeholders. Data were thematically analysed and organised at three socio-ecological levels. At the ‘legislative and policy’ level, the requirement of citizenship documents only allows some stateless children to access public schools. Yet, many informal learning centres are not state-endorsed, as they are unable to fulfil licensing criteria. Importantly, denying the right to work for adult refugees and other undocumented people demotivates the pursuit of education among children. At the ‘individual and family’ level, financial constraints constitute a major reason for school dropouts, especially through expectations on boys to work. Cultural norms partly contribute to the lower enrolment of Rohingya refugee girls in secondary education, but gender parity is maintained for most in primary education. Another factor is proximity to learning centres, which links to safety concerns and transportation costs. Those who accessed public schools reported bullying by local children, which parallels institutional discrimination against marginalised non-citizens. At the ‘community and educational institutions’ level, inadequate funding for learning centres limits their ability to invest in physical facilities, teachers’ salaries and others. Despite difficult operating conditions, learning centres address diverse school readiness, educational backgrounds, and language competencies among students by having sensitised teachers, placement tests and preparatory classes at school entry, and options for vocational training. We propose the gradual inclusion of all children in public schools and the immediate state recognition and support of learning centres. Correspondingly, realising the ‘Right to Work’ for refugees and stateless peoples will be synergistic in advancing universal education access for all children.
Detection of foaling using a tail-attached device with a thermistor and tri-axial accelerometer in pregnant mares
Authors: Aoki Takahiro , Shibata Makoto , Violin Guilherme , Higaki Shogo , Yoshioka Koji
Published: June 2023

It is desirable to attend to the mare at the time of foaling in order to assist fetal delivery and prevent complications. The early detection of the onset of labor is an important issue for the equine industry. The purpose of this study was to examine the applicability of a sensor for foaling detection using the data of surface temperature (ST), roll angle (rotation about the y-axis) and y-axis (long axis of the tail) acceleration which were collected from a multimodal device attached to the ventral tail base of the mare. The data were collected every 3 minutes in 17 pregnant mares. Roll angle differences from the reference values and the mare’s posture (standing or recumbent) confirmed by video were compared and associated. Cohen’s kappa coefficient was 0.99 when the threshold was set as ± 0.3 radian in roll angle differences. This result clearly showed that the sensor data can accurately distinguish between standing and recumbent postures. The hourly sensor data with a lower ST (LST < 35.5°C), a recumbent posture determined by the roll angle, and tail-raising (TR, decline of 200 mg or more from the reference value in y-axis acceleration) was significantly higher during the last hour prepartum than 2−120 hours before parturition (P < 0.01). The accuracy of foaling detection within one hour was verified using the following three indicators: LST; lying down (LD, change from standing to recumbent posture); and TR. When LST, LD and TR were individually examined, even though all indicators showed that sensitivity was 100%, the precision was 13.1%, 8.1% and 2.8%, respectively. When the data were combined as LST+LD, LST+TR, LD+TR and LST+LD+TR, detection of foaling improved, with precisions of 100%, 32.1%, 56.7% and 100%, respectively. In conclusion, the tail-attached multimodal device examined in this present study is useful for detecting foaling.
A TENTATIVA DE DERROTABILIDADE DA DOUTRINA DA PROTEÇÃO INTEGRAL POR MEIO DA ARGUMENTAÇÃO SUBSTANTIVA: UMA ANÁLISE A PARTIR DA ADI 3.446
Authors: Nogueira Jailson Alves
Published: June 2023

Contextualização do tema: A Constituição Federal de 1988 inaugurou a Doutrina da Proteção Integral no Brasil, sendo ratificada pelo Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente, a qual com a Doutrina Menorista que predominava desde os códigos de menores estigmatizantes de 1927 e 1979. Mas esse rompimento tem se expressado mais do ponto de vista jurídico-formal, fazendo com que a Proteção Integral encontre resistência por alguns setores da sociedade, que relegam a sofisticação jurídico-social dessa doutrina em nome de uma cultura punitivista e segregadora.
Objetivo: Neste artigo, investigamos a tentativa de derrotabilidade da Doutrina da Proteção Integral por meio de argumentos substantivos propalados na Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade 3.446.
Metodologia: Utilizamos o método de investigação bibliográfico e documental, dialogando com autores que versam sobre as temáticas da derrotabilidade, Doutrina da Proteção Integral e argumentação substantiva, assim como nos remeteremos a documentos normativos, sobretudo à Constituição Federal de 1988, Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente e Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade 3.446.
Resultados: Portanto, constatamos que a Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade 3.446 teve o intuito de derrotar, por meio de argumentos substantivos, o princípio da Proteção Integral da Constituição Federal de 1988 e regredir à uma concepção menorista estigmatizante, a qual foi disseminada pelos códigos de menores de 1927 e 1979.
JUDICIALIZAÇÃO DA POLÍTICA E DEMOCRACIA DELIBERATIVA NO BRASIL: DETERMINANTES PARA EXPANSÃO DA PARTICIPAÇÃO POPULAR ATRAVÉS DO PODER JUDICIÁRIO
Authors: Oliveira da Cruz Fabio Henrique , Santos Juliano Locatelli
Published: June 2023

Contextualização do tema: A Constituição de 1988 conferiu importantes funções ao Poder Judiciário, que, a partir disso, passou a influenciar e a interferir na atuação dos demais Poderes. A cidadania também instigou a população a ser mais ativa e participativa na gestão do Estado e dessa forma houve um apelo popular para a democratização de processos deliberativos que pudessem abrir espaço para participação da sociedade. Diante da frustração com a representatividade de políticos democraticamente eleitos, a sociedade viu no Poder Judiciário uma forma de fazer valer seus direitos, de influenciar e até intervir nos demais poderes.
Objetivos: O trabalho analisa a correlação entre a Judicialização da política e a democracia deliberativa no Brasil apontando alguns determinantes para a expansão da participação popular através do Poder Judiciário.
Metodologia: A metodologia utilizada foi a hipotético-dedutiva através da análises de fontes secundárias que tratam a judicialização da política e a democracia deliberativa de maneira geral e também de maneira específica no contexto brasileiro.
Resultados: Foi possível concluir que a Judicialização da política e democracia deliberativa no Brasil se correlacionam à medida em que a expansão do Poder Judiciário, através de suas incumbências e mecanismos constitucionais, influencia e até intervém na atuação política dos demais poderes, abrindo espaço para que a população tenha maior acesso a este Poder.
INTERVENÇÃO ESTATAL E A PROTEÇÃO DOS DIREITOS DOS TRABALHADORES NA SOCIEDADE INTERNACIONAL CAPITALISTA NEOLIBERAL E A CRISE DOS ESTADOS
Authors: Klein Junior Paulo , Manzoni Boff Murilo
Published: June 2023

Contextualização: Este artigo pretende compreender a importância da intervenção estatal para a efetivação dos direitos dos trabalhadores enquanto seres humanos, bem como, para a fomentação de um desenvolvimento localmente sustentável, pautado na valorização do local e dos pequenos empreendimentos.
Objetivo: Para tanto, se estudará acerca da ascensão e consolidação do capitalismo neoliberal, a crise dos Estados, a globalização e a transnacionalização, bem como a emergência do fomento do desenvolvimento local e da reafirmação/remodelação dos direitos dos trabalhadores.
Metodologia: Método de abordagem indutivo, com procedimento de pesquisa documental e bibliográfico.
Resultados: Entende-se necessária uma concepção mais ampla de desenvolvimento, abarcando o local, e de relações de trabalho que se transponham além da dualidade clássica detentores dos meios de produção e proletariado, para assim, aferir a necessidade de modificações regulatórias com base no fomento do desenvolvimento local com fins de assegurar os direitos dos trabalhadores.
On the existence and multiplicity of solutions for nonlinear Klein–Gordon–Maxwell system
Authors: Wang Lixia , Xiong Chunlian , Zhao Pingping
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the existence and multiplicity solutions for the following Klein–Gordon–Maxwell system

{

−
Δ
u
+
V
(
x
)
u
−
(
2
ω
+
ϕ
)
ϕ
u
=
f
(
x
,
u
)
,

x
∈

R

3

,

Δ
ϕ
=
(
ω
+
ϕ
)

u
2

,

x
∈

R

3

,

where
ω
>
0
is a constant and the nonlinearity
f
(
x
,
u
)
is either asymptotically linear in
u
at infinity or the primitive of
f
(
x
,
u
)
is of 4-superlinear growth in
u
at infinity. Under some suitable assumptions, the existence and multiplicity of solutions are proved by using the Mountain Pass theorem and the fountain theorem, respectively.
Positive solutions for a class of concave-convex semilinear elliptic systems with double critical exponents
Authors: Zhang Han-Ming , Liao Jia-Feng
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we consider the following concave-convex semilinear elliptic system with double critical exponents:

{

−
Δ
u
=

|

u

|

2

∗

−
2

u
+

α

2

∗

|

u

|

α
−
2

|

v

|

β

u
+
λ

|

u

|

q
−
2

u
,
 
 

in

 
Ω
,

−
Δ
v
=

|

v

|

2

∗

−
2

v
+

β

2

∗

|

u

|

α

|

v

|

β
−
2

v
+
μ

|

v

|

q
−
2

v
,
 
 

in

 
Ω
,

u
,
 
v
>
0
,
 
 

in

 
Ω
,

u
=
v
=
0
,
 
 

on

 
∂
Ω
,

where
Ω
⊂

R

N

(
N
≥
3
)

is a bounded domain with smooth boundary,~
λ
,
 
μ
>
0
,
 
1
<
q
<
2
,
 
α
>
1
,
 
β
>
1
,
 
α
+
β
=

2

∗

=

2
N

N
−
2

. By the Nehari manifold method and variational method, we obtain two positive solutions which
improves the recent results in the literature.