bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
End-on versus parallel radiofrequency lesioning for neurotomy of the cervical medial branch nerves: a study protocol of a prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial: the “EndPaRL” study
Authors: Alomari Abeer , Ferreira-Dos-Santos Guilherme , Singh Mandeep , Burnham Taylor , Cao Xingshan , McCormick Zachary , Flamer David , Kumar Pranab , Hoydonckx Yasmine , Khan James S. , Tumber Paul S. , Alvares Danielle , Bhatia Anuj
Published: November 2023

Background

Cervical facet joint disease is a common source of neck pain and its prevalence increases with aging. Conservative multimodal management options (e.g., strengthening of neck muscles, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, massage, and thermal modalities) often fail to relieve pain. Cervical medial branch nerve (CMBN) radiofrequency neurotomy (RFN) is an effective minimally invasive technique for treating chronic neck pain secondary to facet joint disease. An end-on approach for this procedure has been proposed that may be technically easier and require less time while reducing post-procedural discomfort. The protocol presented here is for a study that aims to compare the efficacy of a new end-on approach using multi-tined cannulae, against the conventional parallel technique that employs straight cannulae for RFN of the CMBN in patients with chronic neck pain due to cervical facet joint disease.

Methods

A multicentre randomized, non-inferior, active comparator-controlled trial will be conducted with two parallel groups and blinding of participants and outcome assessor. The study will include 72 adults with chronic neck pain secondary to facet joint disease who are candidates for RFA of the CMBN. Participants will be randomized to either the conventional parallel or the end-on approach in a 1:1 ratio. The intensity of pain and pain-related domains (function, quality of life, sleep, adverse effects of the interventions, analgesic intake) will be measured at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedure.

Discussion

Neck pain secondary to cervical facet joint disease is prevalent and RFA of the CMBN is a validated treatment for relieving it. The conventional parallel technique can be technically challenging, and it can be associated with adverse effects while the newer end-on approach has the potential of being a simpler technique with less adverse effects. This trial will be the first non-inferiority study to compare the clinical efficacy of the end-on approach against the conventional parallel approach for RFN of CMBN in patients with chronic neck pain due to cervical facet joint disease.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05818774. Registered on April 20, 2023.
Effect of inulin supplementation on clinical symptoms, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in women with migraine: study protocol for a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Vajdi Mahdi , Khorvash Fariborz , Rouhani Mohammad Hossein , Ghavami Abed , Clark Cain C. T. , Askari Gholamreza
Published: November 2023

Background

Migraine is a complex, chronic, and debilitating multifactorial disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of headache and related symptoms. It typically begins in early ages and is more prevalent in women than in men. Recently, the gut–brain axis has emerged as a new candidate that may be linked to neurological diseases. We hypothesize that selective modulation of the intestinal microbiota, oxidative stress, and inflammation through inulin supplementation may improve clinical outcomes in these patients. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effects of high-performance inulin supplementation on clinical symptoms, mental health, quality of life (QOL), intestinal permeability, and inflammatory and oxidative stress factors in women with migraine.

Methods

This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 80 women with migraine who meet the inclusion criteria (aged between 20 and 50 years with a diagnosis of migraine by a neurologist based on the ICDH-3). Participants will be assigned to receive a daily dose of 10 g of inulin for 12 weeks (intervention group, n = 40) or 10 g of maltodextrin as a placebo for the same duration (control group, n = 40). The primary outcome will measure the variations in the frequency of headache experienced by the patients. Secondary outcomes will encompass serum levels of zonulin, high-sensitive C-reactive protein, total antioxidant capacity, total oxidant status, nitric oxide, mental status, QOL, duration, and severity of migraine attacks.

Discussion

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effect of inulin supplementation on inflammatory status, oxidative stress, intestinal permeability, clinical symptoms, mental health, and QOL in women with migraine. The findings of this trial could contribute to the identification of mechanistic action and evidence-based clinical guidelines that address gut microbiota manipulation to maximize health benefits in the management of clinical outcomes in migraine patients.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir) (ID: IRCT20121216011763N58). Registration date: 23 April 2023.

Trial status

The protocol is version 3.0, September 17, 2023. Recruitment began August 21, 2023, and is anticipated to be completed by March 22, 2024.
Towards functionally individualised designed footwear recommendation for overuse injury prevention: a scoping review
Authors: Mai Patrick , Robertz Leon , Robbin Johanna , Bill Kevin , Weir Gillian , Kurz Markus , Trudeau Matthieu B. , Hollander Karsten , Hamill Joseph , Willwacher Steffen
Published: November 2023

Injury prevention is essential in running due to the risk of overuse injury development. Tailoring running shoes to individual needs may be a promising strategy to reduce this risk. Novel manufacturing processes allow the production of individualised running shoes that incorporate features that meet individual biomechanical and experiential needs. However, specific ways to individualise footwear to reduce injury risk are poorly understood. Therefore, this scoping review provides an overview of (1) footwear design features that have the potential for individualisation; and (2) the literature on the differential responses to footwear design features between selected groups of individuals. These purposes focus exclusively on reducing the risk of overuse injuries. We included studies in the English language on adults that analysed: (1) potential interaction effects between footwear design features and subgroups of runners or covariates (e.g., age, sex) for running-related biomechanical risk factors or injury incidences; (2) footwear comfort perception for a systematically modified footwear design feature. Most of the included articles (n = 107) analysed male runners. Female runners may be more susceptible to footwear-induced changes and overuse injury development; future research should target more heterogonous sampling. Several footwear design features (e.g., midsole characteristics, upper, outsole profile) show potential for individualisation. However, the literature addressing individualised footwear solutions and the potential to reduce biomechanical risk factors is limited. Future studies should leverage more extensive data collections considering relevant covariates and subgroups while systematically modifying isolated footwear design features to inform footwear individualisation.
Factors underlying COVID-19 booster vaccine uptake among adults in Belgium
Authors: Vermeiren Elias , van Loenhout Joris A. F. , Nasiadka Léonore , Stouten Veerle , Billuart Matthieu , Van Evercooren Izaak , Catteau Lucy , Hubin Pierre
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate factors influencing the uptake of first and second COVID-19 booster vaccines among adults in Belgium, particularly age, sex, region of residence and laboratory confirmed COVID-19 infection history.

Results

A binomial regression model was used with having received the first or second booster as outcome and age, sex, region of residence and infection history as fixed variables. Among adults, there was generally a higher uptake to receive the first booster among older age groups compared to younger ones. Females, individuals residing in Flanders and those with no previous COVID-19 infection were more likely to receive the first booster. For the second booster, the same age trend was seen as for the first booster. Males, individuals residing in Flanders and those who tested positive for COVID-19 once after first booster were more likely to receive the second booster. Individuals with multiple positive COVID-19 tests before and after primary course or first booster were less likely to receive the subsequent booster dose compared to COVID-naïve individuals. This information could be used to guide future vaccination campaigns during a pandemic and can provide valuable insights into booster uptake patterns.
Histone deacetylase 3 deletion in alveolar type 2 epithelial cells prevents bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Xiong Rui , Geng Boxin , Jiang Wenyang , Hu Yong , Hu Zhaoyu , Hao Bo , Li Ning , Geng Qing
Published: November 2023

Background

Epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) in alveolar type 2 epithelial cells (AT2) is closely associated with pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) is an important enzyme that regulates protein stability by modulating the acetylation level of non-histones. Here, we aimed to explore the potential role and regulatory mechanisms associated with HDAC3 in PF.

Methods

We quantified HDAC3 expression both in lung tissues from patients with PF and from bleomycin (BLM)-treated mice. HDAC3 was also detected in TGF-β1-treated AT2. The mechanistic activity of HDAC3 in pulmonary fibrosis and EMT was also explored.

Results

HDAC3 was highly expressed in lung tissues from patients with PF and bleomycin (BLM)-treated mice, especially in AT2. Lung tissues from AT2-specific HDAC3-deficient mice stimulated with BLM showed alleviative fibrosis and EMT. Upstream of HDAC3, TGF-β1/SMAD3 directly promoted HDAC3 transcription. Downstream of HDAC3, we also found that genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of HDAC3 inhibited GATA3 expression at the protein level rather than mRNA. Finally, we found that intraperitoneal administration of RGFP966, a selective inhibitor of HDAC3, could prevent mice from BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis and EMT.

Conclusion

TGF-β1/SMAD3 directly promoted the transcription of HDAC3, which aggravated EMT in AT2 and pulmonary fibrosis in mice via deacetylation of GATA3 and inhibition of its degradation. Our results suggest that targeting HDAC3 in AT2 may provide a new therapeutic target for the prevention of PF.
Subjective cognitive complaints and blood biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Perna Laura , Stocker Hannah , Burow Lena , Beyer Léon , Trares Kira , Kurz Carolin , Gürsel Selim , Holleczek Bernd , Tatò Maia , Beyreuther Konrad , Mons Ute , Gerwert Klaus , Perneczky Robert , Schöttker Ben , Brenner Hermann
Published: November 2023

Background

Subjective cognitive complaints (SCC) have been mostly studied in the context of Alzheimer’s disease in memory clinic settings. The potential of combining SCC with genetic information and blood biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases for risk assessment of dementia and depression in the absence of dementia among community-dwelling older adults has so far not been explored.

Methods

Data were based on a population-based cohort of 6357 participants with a 17-year follow-up (ESTHER study) and a clinic-based cohort of 422 patients. Participants of both cohorts were grouped according to the diagnosis of dementia (yes/no) and the diagnosis of depression in the absence of dementia (yes/no). Participants without dementia included both cognitively unimpaired participants and cognitively impaired participants. Genetic information (APOE ε4 genotype) and blood-based biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases (glial fibrillary acidic protein; GFAP, neurofilament light chain; NfL, phosphorylated tau181; p-tau181) were available in the ESTHER study and were determined with Simoa Technology in a nested case–control design. Logistic regression models adjusted for relevant confounders were run for the outcomes of all-cause dementia and depression in the absence of dementia.

Results

The results showed that persistent SCC were associated both with increased risk of all-cause dementia and of depression without dementia, independently of the diagnostic setting. However, the results for the ESTHER study also showed that the combination of subjective complaints with APOE ε4 and with increased GFAP concentrations in the blood yielded a substantially increased risk of all-cause dementia (OR 5.35; 95%CI 3.25–8.81, p-value < 0.0001 and OR 7.52; 95%CI 2.79–20.29, p-value < 0.0001, respectively) but not of depression. Associations of NfL and p-tau181 with risk of all-cause dementia and depression were not statistically significant, either alone or in combination with SCC, but increased concentrations of p-tau181 seemed to be associated with an increased risk for depression.

Conclusion

In community and clinical settings, SCC predict both dementia and depression in the absence of dementia. The addition of GFAP could differentiate between the risk of all-cause dementia and the risk of depression among individuals without dementia.
Sex and age differences in social and cognitive function in offspring exposed to late gestational hypoxia
Authors: Mabry Steve , Wilson E. Nicole , Bradshaw Jessica L. , Gardner Jennifer J. , Fadeyibi Oluwadarasimi , Vera Edward , Osikoya Oluwatobiloba , Cushen Spencer C. , Karamichos Dimitrios , Goulopoulou Styliani , Cunningham Rebecca L.
Published: November 2023

Background

Gestational sleep apnea is a hypoxic sleep disorder that affects 8–26% of pregnancies and increases the risk for central nervous system dysfunction in offspring. Specifically, there are sex differences in the sensitivity of the fetal hippocampus to hypoxic insults, and hippocampal impairments are associated with social dysfunction, repetitive behaviors, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. Yet, it is unclear whether gestational sleep apnea impacts these hippocampal-associated functions and if sex and age modify these effects. To examine the relationship between gestational sleep apnea and hippocampal-associated behaviors, we used chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) to model late gestational sleep apnea in pregnant rats. We hypothesized that late gestational CIH would produce sex- and age-specific social, anxiety-like, repetitive, and cognitive impairments in offspring.

Methods

Timed pregnant Long-Evans rats were exposed to CIH or room air normoxia from GD 15–19. Behavioral testing of offspring occurred during either puberty or young adulthood. To examine gestational hypoxia-induced behavioral phenotypes, we quantified hippocampal-associated behaviors (social function, repetitive behaviors, anxiety-like behaviors, and spatial memory and learning), hippocampal neuronal activity (glutamatergic NMDA receptors, dopamine transporter, monoamine oxidase-A, early growth response protein 1, and doublecortin), and circulating hormones in offspring.

Results

Late gestational CIH induced sex- and age-specific differences in social, repetitive, and memory functions in offspring. In female pubertal offspring, CIH impaired social function, increased repetitive behaviors, and elevated circulating corticosterone levels but did not impact memory. In contrast, CIH transiently induced spatial memory dysfunction in pubertal male offspring but did not impact social or repetitive functions. Long-term effects of gestational CIH on social behaviors were only observed in female offspring, wherein CIH induced social disengagement and suppression of circulating corticosterone levels in young adulthood. No effects of gestational CIH were observed in anxiety-like behaviors, hippocampal neuronal activity, or circulating testosterone and estradiol levels, regardless of sex or age of offspring.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that hypoxia-associated pregnancy complications during late gestation can increase the risk for behavioral and physiological outcomes in offspring, such as social dysfunction, repetitive behaviors, and cognitive impairment, that are dependent on sex and age.
A survey of technologies for automatic Dysarthric speech recognition
Authors: Qian Zhaopeng , Xiao Kejing , Yu Chongchong
Published: November 2023

Speakers with dysarthria often struggle to accurately pronounce words and effectively communicate with others. Automatic speech recognition (ASR) is a powerful tool for extracting the content from speakers with dysarthria. However, the narrow concept of ASR typically only covers technologies that process acoustic modality signals. In this paper, we broaden the scope of this concept that the generalized concept of ASR for dysarthric speech. Our survey discussed the systems encompassed acoustic modality processing, articulatory movements processing and audio-visual modality fusion processing in the application of recognizing dysarthric speech. Contrary to previous surveys on dysarthric speech recognition, we have conducted a systematic review of the advancements in this field. In particular, we introduced state-of-the-art technologies to supplement the survey of recent research during the era of multi-modality fusion in dysarthric speech recognition. Our survey found that audio-visual fusion technologies perform better than traditional ASR technologies in the task of dysarthric speech recognition. However, training audio-visual fusion models requires more computing resources, and the available data corpus for dysarthric speech is limited. Despite these challenges, state-of-the-art technologies show promising potential for further improving the accuracy of dysarthric speech recognition in the future.
Photoactivated chromophore-corneal cross-linking accelerates corneal healing in fungal keratitis: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Shuyi , Fang Shifeng , Zhang Lijun
Published: November 2023

Aim

To determine the effectiveness and safety of photoactivated chromophore-corneal cross-linking (PACK-CXL) adjuvant in infectious keratitis by April 5, 2022.

Methods

We searched randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing standard antibiotic treatment (SAT) plus PACK-CXL to SAT in infectious keratitis in Embase, MEDLINE with PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. We independently screened and extracted data using predesigned tables. Cochrane’s risk-of-bias tool was utilized to examine the quality of RCTs. A random-effects model was employed to determine the overall effect size of the meta-analyses. Grading of Recommendations, and Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) was also performed to examine the quality of evidence.

Results

Seven eligible RCTs with 283 patients were acquired. Adjuvant PACK-CXL reduced the time needed to perform corneal healing in fungal keratitis (− 1.33 months; 95% CI, − 1.83 to − 0.42, I2 = 0%, P < 0.05) as compared to SAT alone. The risks of adverse events were not significantly different both in fungal and bacterial keratitis. Due to the substantial heterogeneity among studies, such as population, the type and severity of infectious keratitis, drug regimens of SAT, PACK-CXL protocol, and the judgment of subjective outcomes, the evidence grade was low.

Conclusion

Adjuvant PACK-CXL accelerates fungal keratitis healing as compared to SAT alone. But more rigorous RCTs are required to determine the clinical effectiveness and safety.
Effects of irrigation and rainfed practices on Normalized Difference Vegetative Index of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and its Implications on Grain Yield in Northern China
Authors: Mazengo Tumaini Erasto Robert , Guo Zhongying , Liu Xiaoying , Wu Yingnan , Li Yuzhong , Gwandu Catherine
Published: November 2023

Five (5) winter wheat genotypes were evaluated based on the Normalized Difference Vegetative Index (NDVI) under irrigation and rainfed conditions. A randomized complete block design in a split-plot arrangement was used with 30 treatment combinations during the two consecutive cropping seasons, from 2017 to 2019. The NDVI was used to evaluate the differences in wheat genotypes growth from the effects of irrigation and rainfed. The results indicated that NDVI values varied at all vegetative stages and that there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in NDVI indices among genotypes throughout the growth period, especially at the booting and grain-filling stages from the end of March to mid-May. However the indices started to decrease immediately after physiological maturity. In the entire study, the maximum NDVI was 0.82 for the Zhongmai-36 genotype, corresponding to a grain yield of 8.05 mg ha−1 and was obtained in irrigation group. The maximum NDVI in rainfed group was 0.78 from Zhongmai-36 and corresponded to the grain yield of 7.28 mg ha−1. This study suggests that among the other four genotypes, Zhongmai-36 could be prioritized under limited irrigation without compromising grain yield (GY). Since the NDVI, leaf area index (LAI) and GY related positively during the entire growth period therefore, can be used for the real time monitoring of wheat growth seasonal water requirements and grain yield simulation. This information could be used by agricultural stakeholders and decision-makers in early warning of food security concerning wheat productivity.
Analysis of Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Nano- and Micro-SiO2 Materials as Cementitious Composite Binder
Authors: Kim Won-Woo , Moon Jae-Heum
Published: November 2023

This study evaluated the setting time, mechanical properties and microstructure of Portland cement (OPC) by adding SiO2 nano- and micro-particles. The setting time was reduced due to the pozzolanic reaction of the nano- and micro-SiO2, and the compressive strength was increased through a reduction in the porosity of the microstructure. When nano- and micro-SiO2 were used alone, micro-silica was the most effective in reduced the initial and final setting times and developing compressive strength. When two or more nano- and micro-SiO2 were used, a micro-sized binder and a small amount of nano-silica effectively improved performance as the setting time was reduced to 50–52% of that of ordinary Portland cement (OPC). It appears that a small amount of nano-silica could reduce the setting time and increase compressive strength because it caused the pozzolanic reaction and because the nanoparticles filled the pores between the silica fume and cement, which were composed of relatively large particles. This result could also be derived from compressive strength and microstructure analysis. Cement paste containing to nano- and micro-silica increased the strength by approximately 112% compared to OPC. Because nano-binders may cause a reduction in flow due to their large specific surface area, adding chemical admixture needs to be considered during mix design. In addition, the particle size distribution must be considered when nano- and micro-materials are used because an imbalance in particle size distribution can increase the pore size in the microstructure.
Anti-diarrheal drug loperamide induces dysbiosis in zebrafish microbiota via bacterial inhibition
Authors: Stevick Rebecca J. , Audrain Bianca , Bedu Sébastien , Dray Nicolas , Ghigo Jean-Marc , Pérez-Pascual David
Published: November 2023

Background

Perturbations of animal-associated microbiomes from chemical stress can affect host physiology and health. While dysbiosis induced by antibiotic treatments and disease is well known, chemical, nonantibiotic drugs have recently been shown to induce changes in microbiome composition, warranting further exploration. Loperamide is an opioid-receptor agonist widely prescribed for treating acute diarrhea in humans. Loperamide is also used as a tool to study the impact of bowel dysfunction in animal models by inducing constipation, but its effect on host-associated microbiota is poorly characterized.

Results

We used conventional and gnotobiotic larval zebrafish models to show that in addition to host-specific effects, loperamide also has anti-bacterial activities that directly induce changes in microbiota diversity. This dysbiosis is due to changes in bacterial colonization, since gnotobiotic zebrafish mono-colonized with bacterial strains sensitive to loperamide are colonized up to 100-fold lower when treated with loperamide. Consistently, the bacterial diversity of gnotobiotic zebrafish colonized by a mix of 5 representative bacterial strains is affected by loperamide treatment.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that loperamide, in addition to host effects, also induces dysbiosis in a vertebrate model, highlighting that established treatments can have underlooked secondary effects on microbiota structure and function. This study further provides insights for future studies exploring how common medications directly induce changes in host-associated microbiota.

Graphical Abstract
Reliability analysis and uncertainty quantification of clay and sand slopes stability evaluated by Fellenius and Bishop’s simplified methods
Authors: Doan Nhu Son
Published: November 2023

Slope stabilities are mainly designed using the conventional design approach (CDA), where the limit equilibrium methods (LEMs) are performed. Fellenius and Bishop’s simplified methods are the two commonly LEMs adopted as recommended in most design codes. In the design process of CDA, the safety factors (FS) of slopes are checked with specified FSs to ensure stability. The CDA has inherent drawbacks because the design process does not account for uncertainties. Moreover, different LEMs using different assumptions to solve the safety factors might include some amount orders of approximations. This study conducts probabilistic analyses, i.e., Monte Carlo simulations (MCSs) and uncertainty quantification, to obtain insights into the two LEMs applied to clay and sand slopes. The results reveal that the reliability indexes (RIs) obtained from the two LEMs-based MCSs are relatively identical for the same slope. Concerning the soil types, however, the RIs of the clay slope are significantly lower than those estimated for the sand slope, regardless of the LEMs used. The uncertainty quantifications for the clay slopes reveal that the two LEMs have relatively similar bias factors regarding FSs. Nevertheless, using the Fellenius method underestimates the probabilistic safety (about 17% in terms of the mean of FSs) for the sand slope compared to Bishop’s simplified method. Moreover, the coefficients of variation of FS obtained from the clay slope are consistently larger than those from the sand slope. These observations imply that the clay slope is more uncertain than the sand slope, and the Fellenius method results in lower FSs for sand slopes. Therefore, the FSs specified in the design codes should be connected to the soil type or the LEMs used to achieve the same probabilistic safety levels. Finally, the equivalent FSs associated with a RI of 1.75 are derived for each slope and each LEM used.
Association between severe acute malnutrition in childhood and hematological disorders in adulthood: the Lwiro follow-up study in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Bedha Aline , Shindano Tony , Hermans Michel P. , Havelange Violaine , Makali Samuel , Minani Jimmy , Ngaboyeka Gaylord , Kunaba Edwige , Donnen Philippe , Dramaix Michelle , Bisimwa Ghislain , Mwene-Batu Pacifique
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite growing evidence on the short-term deleterious effects of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in childhood on hematopoiesis, little is known about the long-term hematological effects of SAM in low-income countries (LICs). Our study explored the association between childhood SAM and hematological disorders in adults 11 to 30 years after post-SAM nutritional rehabilitation.

Methods

This follow up study investigated 97 adults (mean age 32 years) treated for SAM during childhood in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) between 1988 and 2007. Participants were compared to 97 aged- and sex-matched adult controls living in the same community with no history of SAM. Outcomes of interest were hematological characteristics and disorders in adulthood, assessed by various biological markers. Logistic and linear regression models were used to estimate the association between SAM in childhood and risk of hematological abnormalities.

Results

Compared to the unexposed, the exposed had higher mean white blood cells (/μl) [+ 840 (179 to 1501), p = 0.013], neutrophils [+ 504 (83 to 925), p = 0.019] and platelets (*103) [11.9 (8.1 to 17.9), p = 0.038] even after adjustment for food consumption in adulthood. No difference was observed in red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin and erythrocytes parameters. With regard to the risk of hematological disorders, in contrast to the unexposed, exposed subjects had a risk of leukocytosis approximately three times higher [adjusted OR (95% CI): 2.98 (1.01 to 8.79), p = 0.048]. No difference was observed in terms of anemia, leukopenia, increased platelets and thrombocytopenia between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Adults with a history of SAM in childhood have hematological characteristics that would be markers associated with chronic low-grade inflammatory or infectious diseases in an environment with no nutritional transition. Larger cohort studies with bone marrow analyses could provide further understanding of the impact of SAM on the overall hematological profile in adult life.
Predictors of endobronchial forceps utilization for inferior vena cava filter retrieval: when snare retrieval fails
Authors: Kang Richard D. , Schuchardt Philip , Charles Jonathan , Kumar Premsai , Drews Elena , Kazi Stephanie , DePalma Andres , Fang Adam , Raymond Aislynn , Davis Cliff , Massis Kamal , Hoots Glenn , Mhaskar Rahul , Nezami Nariman , Shaikh Jamil
Published: November 2023

Background

Endobronchial forceps are commonly used for complex IVC filter removal and after initial attempts at IVC filter retrieval with a snare have failed. Currently, there are no clear guidelines to help distinguish cases where primary removal should be attempted with standard snare technique or whether attempts at removal should directly be started with forceps. This study is aimed to identify clinical and imaging predictors of snare failure which necessitate conversion to endobronchial forceps.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 543 patients who underwent IVC filter retrievals were performed at three large quaternary care centers from Jan 2015 to Jan 2022. Patient demographics and IVC filter characteristics on cross-sectional images (degree of tilt, hook embedment, and strut penetration, etc.) were reviewed. Binary multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of IVC filter retrieval where snare retrieval would fail.

Results

Thirty seven percent of the patients (n = 203) necessitated utilization of endobronchial forceps. IVC filter hook embedment (OR:4.55; 95%CI: 1.74–11.87; p = 0.002) and strut penetration (OR: 56.46; 95% CI 20.2–157.7; p = 0.001) were predictors of snare failure. In contrast, total dwell time, BMI, and degree of filter tilt were not associated with snare failure. Intraprocedural conversion from snare to endobronchial forceps was significantly associated with increased contrast volume, radiation dose, and total procedure times (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

IVC filter hook embedment and strut penetration were predictors of snare retrieval failure. Intraprocedural conversion from snare to endobronchial forceps increased contrast volume, radiation dose, and total procedure time. When either hook embedment or strut penetration is present on pre-procedural cross-sectional images, IVC filter retrieval should be initiated using endobronchial forceps.

Level of evidence

Level 3, large multicenter retrospective cohort.
Association of ABCA1 gene with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): an overview
Authors: Yadav Tanu , Yadav Arti , Jafri Asif , Swaroop Suchit
Published: November 2023

Background

This review is a summarized study on CAD, CVD, atherosclerosis, and its association with the ABCA1 gene. Only 13 clinical as well as epidemiological and peer-reviewed research papers published in the associated field were chosen for the review from out of 55 articles.

Main body

The research papers have been collected and studied from PubMed, Research Gate, and Google Scholar search engines. In the study, it has been found that GWAS, cell culture, and data-based studies were done to figure out the relationship of the ABCA1 gene with heart diseases. Blood samples were collected and diagnosed both biochemically and genetically to find out the lipid level and its functioning in the efflux of cholesterol and its effect and association with the ABCA1 gene, and with CAD researchers.

Conclusions

Dysregulation of DNA methylation can be re-expressed epigenetically. These studies of the ABCA1 gene and its polymorphic variants would help in future research studies and further can develop new drugs and methods the for treatment of heart disease and CAD.
Evaluation of new target structure and recognition for point cloud registration and coordinates transformation of China’s large double-span bridge
Authors: Deng Xiaojun , Wang Shaorui , Zhuang Yanghao , Fan Yonghui , Zhou Yin
Published: November 2023

In view of the limited precision of traditional point cloud registration methods in bridge engineering, as well as the lack of intuitive guidance for bridge construction control regarding relative coordinate relationships of point clouds, this study proposes a novel dual-purpose target for the total station and laser scanner, along with a corresponding algorithm. The scanning point cloud undergoes intensity filtering, clustering, planar denoising, contour extraction, centroid fitting, registration transformation, target recognition, registration, and coordinate transformation. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can accurately extract the centroid coordinates of the targets and effectively handle complex on-site conditions. The coordinate transformation achieves high precision, with an amplification error of only 2.1 mm at a distance of 500 m. The registration precision between planar and spherical targets is nearly identical, surpassing that of planar iterative and ICP algorithms. Application of the algorithm in the context of China’s large double-span steel-tube concrete arch bridge scenario. it was found that the maximum deviation of the radius of the main chord tube was 10.8 mm, the maximum deviation of the distance from the center of the main chord tube was 8.3 mm, the average length of the merging opening was 775.0 mm, the maximum lateral deviation of the merging opening was 9.6 mm, and the maximum deviation of the height of merging opening was 25.2 mm. The results showed that no additional restraining measures were needed, and the smooth jointing could be realized only under a suitable temperature. Comparison with measurements obtained from the TS60 total station exhibits a close match, with a verification error within 3.9 mm, thereby meeting the precision requirements for construction control.
Precocious Puberty in Hypothyroidism: Mini-Review of Van Wyk–Grumbach Syndrome
Authors: Fernandez-Gonzalez Sara Maria , Perez Vila Marina Maria , Prado-Carro Ana Maria
Published: November 2023

Severe hypothyroidism can affect a variety of organs and can develop atypical manifestations. Peripheral precocious puberty may be secondary to other endocrinological diseases, which must be taken into account in the differential diagnosis in order to avoid unnecessary additional tests. Van Wyk–Grumbach syndrome is an infrequent manifestation characterized by severe hypothyroidism and incomplete precocious puberty. Diagnosis is made by clinical and complementary tests, and the main treatment goal is to achieve euthyroidism through hormone replacement. Prognosis is good once the treatment is established. The aim of this study is to review the available literature about Van Wyk–Grumbach syndrome following the PRISMA statement, and to present the first clinical case published in Spain. We have included the articles published during the period from 1905 to week 40 of 2022. A total of 68 articles have been selected for study and analysis, within which there are 99 published clinical cases. Girls accounted for 92.1% of cases (median age at the diagnosis 8.5 years). Metrorrhagia was the most prevalent symptom, present in 80.5% of the girls. Abdominal ultrasound was performed in 93.3% of the girls and 97.8% of them had at least one ovarian cyst. All cases were treated with levothyroxine, responding satisfactorily after the first doses of treatment. To conclude, Van Wyk–Grumbach syndrome is characterized by severe hypothyroidism and incomplete precocious puberty, which is important to keep in mind in order to avoid complementary exams and unnecessary surgical interventions.
The Degree of Prepregnancy Vitamin D Deficiency Is Not Associated With Gestational Diabetes in Women Undergoing ART
Authors: Liu Yvonne , Hocher Johann-Georg , Chen Huijun , Hu Liang , Zhang Xiaoli , Cai Sufen , Tang Sha , Gong Fei , Krämer Bernhard K , Lin Ge , Hocher Berthold
Published: November 2023

Context

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication, particularly in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART). An association of GDM with vitamin D in women conceiving naturally has been described; however, studies have yielded heterogeneous results.

Objective

To analyze the association between prepregnancy total and free vitamin D and GDM incidence in women undergoing ART.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of a prospective study at the Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya in Changsha, China. Total and free vitamin D were measured 1 day before embryo transfer. The patients were screened for GDM using the oral glucose tolerance test.

Results

A total of 1593 women were included in the study, among whom 256 (16.1%) developed GDM. According to international guidelines for total 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], 47 (2.9%) patients had sufficient (≥30 ng/mL) levels, while 696 (43.7%) were insufficient (20 to <30 ng/mL) and 850 (54.4%) were deficient (<20 ng/mL). Comparing GDM and non-GDM patients, there was no significant difference in total nor free vitamin D levels (P = .340 and .849). Similarly, analysis of GDM rates by quintiles of total and free 25(OH)D showed no significant association in one-way ANOVA (P = .831 and .799). Multivariate logistic regression, considering age, BMI, and fasting glucose, also did not show a significant influence of the 2 vitamin D forms on GDM incidence (P = .266 and .123 respectively).

Conclusion

In this relatively vitamin D deficient/insufficient ART cohort, the degree of neither total nor free vitamin D deficiency before pregnancy was associated with the occurrence of GDM.
Educational interventions on preventing pressure injuries targeted at nurses: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kitamura Juliana Cristina , Nicolosi Julia Teixeira , Paggiaro André Oliveira , Fernandes de Carvalho Viviane
Published: November 2023

Background:

Although preventable, pressure injuries are commonly observed in the hospital setting and are estimated to be the third most costly condition, after cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Aim:

Nurses play a crucial role in the prevention and management of pressure injuries, however, published evidence on the effectiveness of educational interventions, directed specifically at nurses in the hospital environment, is scarce.

Method:

The authors retrieved published studies on the subject from selected databases (Pubmed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library) in a number of languages (Portuguese, English, French and Spanish). The search yielded randomised controlled trials, as well as quasi-experimental and comparative studies.

Findings:

In total, 11 studies were selected. The outcomes analysed, following some type of educational intervention, included the attitudes and knowledge of the nursing professionals, as well as the incidence of pressure injuries.

Conclusion:

The present study demonstrated that different educational strategies can help prevent pressure injuries in the hospital environment.
Mental health, Covid-19 and disadvantage: Considering the issues affecting the sector
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: November 2023

Sue Allingham, author, trainer and consultant, discusses some of the latest news stories and headlines about the sector, encouraging practitioners to reflect on the issues they and their children are facing and what can be done to tackle them.
Supporting children with speech and language needs in early years
Authors: Harris Jane , Loxley Amy
Published: November 2023

A new report in September from the charity Speech and Language UK found that 1.9 million children – at least one in five - are behind with talking and understanding words. Chief executive Jane Harris explores the report's implications for the early years sector and Amy Loxley, Lead Speech and Language advisor for the charity, shares how settings can help under-fives develop their language skills.
Why we need to look after baby teeth
Authors: Greenwall Linda
Published: November 2023

A recent survey by the National Dental Epidemiology Programme revealed that almost a quarter of five-year-old children in England have experienced tooth decay, and that there is a link between these problems and deprivation. Dr Linda Greenwall, founder of Dental Wellness Trust - a charity promoting children's oral health through education and intervention programmes, outlines why good dental health is so important in early years and how settings can support children and families to look after baby teeth.
Here comes Christmas: Using celebrations as a tool for learning in early years education
Authors: Davies Emma
Published: November 2023

Emma Davies, founder and director of the early years resource website Is it Time to Play?, explores how to use celebrations and festivals as a learning tool to support children in settings. She discusses how this can foster a sense of belonging and nurture respect for other cultures, highlighting different activities to aid and enhance learning.
How artificial intelligence could shape early years education
Authors: Siraj-Blatchford John
Published: November 2023

As technology continues to play an increasing role in our lives the development of artificial intelligence (AI) is leading to new opportunities for the education sector. Dr John Siraj-Blatchford, independent early years educational researcher and consultant, discusses some of the issues around AI as well as the potential benefits for early childhood education.
Pathways to more resource-intensive consumption through convenient bundles and complexes of food, mobility and housing practices
Authors: Krog Juvik Amanda , Halkier Bente
Published: November 2023

In contemporary society, it is widely acknowledged that current patterns of consumption are fundamentally unsustainable because a large percentage of emissions comes from consumption related to food, mobility and housing practices. However, current debates and existing research on the need to change daily practices to address climate change tend to focus on single consumption activities, thereby paying too little attention to how practices are embedded in daily routines connected to a multitude of other practices. Instead of considering consumption activities related to food, mobility and housing as separate from one another, we examined how they connect and overlap with each other in the everyday lives of young Danes and what implications this might have for the ability to transition to less resource-intensive consumption. We do so through an analysis of data from interviews, mobilities mapping and photo diaries with 20 households, for a total of 30 young Danes (age 25–35) who are in the process of moving to new housing. With an outset in theories of practice, the article shows how the relations between the householders’ routines concerning food, mobility and housing become interwoven and embedded in bundles and complexes of practices characterised by conveniencisation. We argue that the conveniencisation in the case of bundles and complexes among food, mobility and housing practices create pathways towards more resource-intensive consumption as an implication due to the ‘stickiness’ of co-dependence in complexes and even looser interdependence in the bundling of food, mobility and housing practices in everyday lives.
The Half House Made Whole: Evidence from Southeastern Massachusetts
Authors: Kelleher James I.
Published: November 2023

abstract: End-chimney houses were a common form in early New England. This article examines the ways in which these houses were used, based on physical and documentary evidence from southeastern Massachusetts and adjacent regions. Especially in their double-pile variety, these houses accommodated several different types of interior organization, each suggesting a different relation of the occupants to early modern conceptions of space, privacy, and refinement. Work functions such as cooking could be placed “forward” in the house, continuing an essentially medieval conception of the hall as a multipurpose space, or could be removed to the rear of houses. Private spaces such as bedrooms or parlors were often situated beyond or above this hall. Occasionally, concepts of material refinement and privacy were spatially linked, but often they were split, with expensive showpieces like beds appearing in halls, with less refined but more private spaces beyond. The architecture determined the ways in which these houses were used only to a limited extent; the flexibility of the house form was likely a factor in its continuing popularity into the eighteenth century.
Toward a Deeper Understanding of the Precollege Racial Socialization of White Undergraduate Students
Authors: Foste Zak
Published: November 2023

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to better understand how white students are socialized to think about race in their precollege environments. While a great deal of scholarship has examined the racial attitudes, beliefs, and ideologies of white students in college, much less is known about how race is learned and rendered significant in precollege contexts. This study explored how 40 white undergraduates were socialized to think about race in two critical precollege environments: their neighborhoods and schools. The results of this study emphasize that while participants came from racially homogenous communities, they were not empty vessels merely waiting to be filled up with new information about race in college. Rather, they experienced a number of contexts that imparted particular messages about the nature of race, racism, and whiteness prior to ever stepping foot on campus.
UndocuJoy as Resistance: Beyond Gloom and Doom Narratives of Undocumented Collegians
Authors: Santa-Ramirez Stephen , Hall Kayon A.
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This narrative inquiry study examined how Black and non-Black Mexican undocumented collegians use joy as resistance to navigate their lives while in college. A lack of published empirical research explores how these collegians experience and embrace joy despite navigating barriers, such as anti-im/migrant exclusionary policies and racist nativist sociopolitical and campus climates. Our findings revealed their joyful experiences with biological and chosen family and communal and artistic joy. Recommendations for research and practice are provided for higher education actors at all levels.