bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediastinal actinomycosis masquerading as a mass: a case of progressive dysphagia in an immunocompromised patient
Authors: Shehzad Dawood , Khan Dawlat , Huang Jiannan , Sitta Emad Abu
Published: June 2024

Actinomycosis is a rare endogenous infection characterised by indolent progression, contiguous spreading, abscess formation and draining sinuses. Here, we present a case ofSchaalia odontolyticacausing a mediastinal abscess that is unique in its acuity and location. Our patient presented with worsening dysphagia, and CT of her chest revealed a new mass in the posterior mediastinum displacing the oesophagus. Oesophagram revealed mild motility disorder, but no masses or ulcers within the oesophagus. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy with endoscopic ultrasound revealed extrinsic compression of the oesophagus. Fine-needle aspiration of the mass yielded purulent fluid, which was cultured. A single colony ofS. odontolyticawas isolated. Initially, medical treatment was favoured, but as she developed worsening dysphagia, the abscess was drained. She continued on long-term antibiotic therapy after drainage and had complete resolution of the abscess at 1 year.
Paediatric traumatic brain injury and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication in Finland: a nationwide register-based cohort study
Authors: Laaksonen Juho , Ponkilainen Ville , Möttönen Julius , Mattila Ville M , Kuitunen Ilari
Published: June 2024

Background

The association between paediatric traumatic brain injury (pTBI) and post-traumatic attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication usage remains understudied subject.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the association between pTBI and subsequent ADHD medication.

Methods

A nationwide retrospective cohort study in Finland from 1998 to 2018 included 66 594 patients with pTBI and 61 412 references with distal extremity fractures. ADHD medication data were obtained from the Finnish Social Insurance Institution. The primary outcome was post-traumatic pediatric ADHD medication. A 1-year washout period was applied, and follow-up started 1 year post-pTBI.

Findings

Kaplan-Meier analyses showed higher ADHD medication usage in patients with pTBI, especially post-operatively. Both sex groups exhibited elevated rates compared with the reference group. Over 10 years, cumulative incidence rates were 3.89% (pTBI) vs 1.90% (reference). HR for pTBI was 1.89 (95% CI 1.70 to 2.10) after 4 years and 6.31 (95% CI 2.80 to 14.20) for the operative group after the initial follow-up year. After 10 years, cumulative incidence in females increased to 2.14% (pTBI) vs 1.07% (reference), and in males, to 5.02% (pTBI) vs 2.35% (reference). HR for pTBI was 2.01 (95% CI 1.72 to 2.35) in females and 2.23 (95% CI 2.04 to 2.45) in males over 1–20 years.

Conclusions

A substantial association between pTBI and post-traumatic ADHD medication was evidenced over a 20-year follow-up period.

Clinical implications

These results stress the need for preventive measures for pTBI and highlight the potential impact of long-term post-traumatic monitoring and psychoeducation.
Interdisciplinary videoconference model for identifying potential adverse
transition of care events following hospital discharge to postacute
care
Authors: Beiter Evan R , Shanbhag Akshay , Junge-Maughan Lauren , Knoph Kristen , Dufour Alyssa B , Lipsitz Lewis , Moore Amber
Published: June 2024

Discharge from hospitals to postacute care settings is a vulnerable time
for many older adults, when they may be at increased risk for errors
occurring in their care. We developed the Extension for Community Healthcare
Outcomes-Care Transitions (ECHO-CT) programme in an effort to mitigate these
risks through a mulitdisciplinary, educational, case-based teleconference
between hospital and skilled nursing facility providers. The programme was
implemented in both academic and community hospitals. Through weekly
sessions, patients discharged from the hospital were discussed, clinical
concerns addressed, errors in care identified and plans were made for
remediation. A total of 1432 discussions occurred for 1326 patients. The aim
of this study was to identify errors occurring in the postdischarge period
and factors that predict an increased risk of experiencing an error. In 435
discussions, an issue was identified that required further discussion (known
as a transition of care event), and the majority of these were related to
medications. In 14.7% of all discussions, a medical error, defined as ‘any
preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medical care or
patient harm’, was identified. We found that errors were more likely to
occur for patients discharged from surgical services or the emergency
department (as compared with medical services) and were less likely to occur
for patients who were discharged in the morning. This study shows that a
number of errors may be detected in the postdischarge period, and the
ECHO-CT programme provides a mechanism for identifying and mitigating these
events. Furthermore, it suggests that discharging service and time of day
may be associated with risk of error in the discharge period, thereby
suggesting potential areas of focus for future interventions.
Clinical characteristics, associated comorbidities and hospital outcomes of neonates with sleep disordered breathing: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mehta Bhavesh , Waters Karen , Fitzgerald Dominic , Badawi Nadia
Published: June 2024

Objective

Awareness of the need for early identification and treatment of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) in neonates is increasing but is challenging. Unrecognised SDB can have negative neurodevelopmental consequences. Our study aims to describe the clinical profile, risk factors, diagnostic modalities and interventions that can be used to manage neonates with SDB to facilitate early recognition and improved management.

Methods

A single-centre retrospective study of neonates referred for assessment of suspected SDB to a tertiary newborn intensive care unit in New South Wales Australia over a 2-year period. Electronic records were reviewed. Outcome measures included demographic data, clinical characteristics, comorbidities, reason for referral, polysomnography (PSG) data, interventions targeted to treat SDB and hospital outcome. Descriptive analysis was performed and reported.

Results

Eighty neonates were included. Increased work of breathing, or apnoea with oxygen desaturation being the most common reasons (46% and 31%, respectively) for referral. Most neonates had significant comorbidities requiring involvement of multiple specialists (mean 3.3) in management. The majority had moderate to severe SDB based on PSG parameters of very high mean apnoea-hypopnoea index (62.5/hour) with a mean obstructive apnoea index (38.7/hour). Ten per cent of patients required airway surgery. The majority of neonates (70%) were discharged home on non-invasive ventilation.

Conclusion

SDB is a serious problem in high-risk neonates and it is associated with significant multisystem comorbidities necessitating a multidisciplinary team approach to optimise management. This study shows that PSG is useful in neonates to diagnose and guide management of SDB.
Establishment of clinical exercise physiology as a regulated healthcare profession in the UK: a progress report
Authors: Jones Helen , Crozier Anthony , George Keith , Miller Gemma , Whyte Greg P , Rycroft Joanna , Scott Andrew , Buckley John P , McGregor Gordon , Askew Christopher David , Jack Sandy , Birkett Steffan , Broom David R , Tolfrey Keith , Campbell Anna , Skelton Dawn A , Steenkamp Lizanne , Savage Jude , Green Daniel J
Published: June 2024

In 2021, a ‘call to action’ was published to highlight the need for professional regulation of clinical exercise physiologists to be established within UK healthcare systems to ensure patient safety and align training and regulation with other health professions. This manuscript provides a progress report on the actions that Clinical Exercise Physiology UK (CEP-UK) has undertaken over the past 4 years, during which time clinical exercise physiologists have implemented regulation and gained formal recognition as healthcare professionals in the UK. An overview of the consultation process involved in creating a regulated health profession, notably the development of policies and procedures for both individual registration and institutional master’s degree (MSc) accreditation is outlined. Additionally, the process for developing an industry-recognised scope of practice, a university MSc-level curriculum framework, the Academy for Healthcare Science Practitioner standards of proficiency and Continuing Professional Development opportunities is included. We outline the significant activities and milestones undertaken by CEP-UK and provide insight and clarity for other health professionals to understand the training and registration process for a clinical exercise physiologist in the UK. Finally, we include short, medium and long-term objectives for the future advocacy development of this workforce in the UK.
One Health: opportunities for Defence Engagement (Health)
Authors: Graves Rebecca L , Whitaker J , Clay K
Published: June 2024

The One Health concept continues to gain traction as a necessary approach to tackle emerging threats to human, animal and environmental health but has not yet been adopted within Defence Engagement (Health). The health of humans, animals and ecosystems are closely interlinked. The One Health concept recognises this interdependence and seeks to balance and optimise the health of all three through an integrated and unifying approach. With a focus on zoonoses, vectorborne disease, antimicrobial resistance and food safety it encourages collaboration, communication, coordination and capacity building. The UK has made commitments to the One Health approach in the Global Health and Security Agenda, and the Integrated Review. This article explores how the One Health approach could and should be adopted within Defence Engagement (Health) activity to offer the potential for high-impact, low-risk activity while facilitating long-term relationship building.
Therapeutic options for neurocardiogenic syncope: a meta-analysis of randomised trials with and without blinding
Authors: Kaza Nandita , Sorbini Michela , Liu Zhuang , Johal Monika , Porter Bradley , Nowbar Alexandra , Levy Shuli , Dani Melanie , Taraborelli Patricia , Eardley Philip , Zuhair Mohamed , Arnold Ahran , Howard James , Whinnett Zachary I , Francis Darrel P , Shun-Shin Matthew J , Lim Phang Boon , Keene Daniel
Published: June 2024

Background

Neurocardiogenic syncope is a common condition with significant associated psychological and physical morbidity. The effectiveness of therapeutic options for neurocardiogenic syncope beyond placebo remains uncertain.

Methods

The primary endpoint was the risk ratio (RR) of spontaneously recurring syncope following any therapeutic intervention. We also examined the effect of blinding on treatment efficacy. We identified all randomised trials which evaluated the effect of any pharmacological, device-based or supportive intervention on patients with a history of syncope. A systematic search was conducted on Medline, Embase, PubMed databases and Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials from 1950 to 25 April 2023. Event rates, their RRs and 95% CIs were calculated, and a random-effects meta-analysis was conducted for each intervention. Data analysis was performed in R using RStudio.

Results

We identified 47 eligible trials randomising 3518 patients. Blinded trials assessing syncope recurrence were neutral for beta blockers, fludrocortisone and conventional dual-chamber pacing but were favourable for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (RR 0.40, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.63, p<0.001), midodrine (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.94, p=0.016) and closed-loop stimulation (CLS) pacing (RR 0.15, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.35, p<0.001). Unblinded trials reported significant benefits for all therapy categories other than beta blockers and consistently showed larger benefits than blinded trials.

Conclusions

Under blinded conditions, SSRIs, midodrine and CLS pacing significantly reduced syncope recurrence. Future trials for syncope should be blinded to avoid overestimating treatment effects.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022330148.
Cigarette unit sales volume for brands using ‘natural’, ‘organic’ and ‘tobacco and water’ pack terms in the USA, 2018–2022
Authors: Erinoso Olufemi , Liber Alex C , Hogan Alexis , Martínez Bianca , Miller Felicia , Kue Donald , Sangoleye Dotun , Pearson Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Background

Terms such as ‘natural’, ‘organic’ and ‘tobacco and water’ on cigarette packs may communicate misleading reduced harm messages to consumers. This study describes sales volume and price for brands that used these misleading descriptors in the USA by year, brand and state.

Methods

The data come from Information Resources Incorporated sales data collected in 44 US states from January 2018 to January 2023. Trained coders used Universal Product Codes, purchased packs and internet searches to identify cigarettes sold with ‘natural’, ‘organic’ and ‘tobacco and water’ on packs. We report cigarette pack unit sales counts (sales volume) and average price per pack by year, as well as per cent year-over-year change in sales volume and price and annual market share by descriptor terms.

Results

Overall, pack sales volume decreased year-over-year from 2019 to 2022. Sales volume for packs with ‘natural’, ‘tobacco and water’ and ‘organic’ decreased less than overall; in some cases, they increased. In 2022, packs with ‘natural’ accounted for the greatest share of cigarette unit sales (5.42% or 33 605 036 packs), followed by ‘tobacco and water’ (2.25% or 12 959 905 packs) and ‘organic’ (0.53% or 4 614 592 packs). Natural American Spirit (NAS) and Winston accounted for most sales with ‘natural’ and ‘tobacco and water’; NAS accounted for nearly all sales with ‘organic’. Packs with ‘natural’, ‘tobacco and water’ or ‘organic’ made up the largest portion of sales in western (Oregon, Idaho, California, Colorado and Washington) and northeastern (Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire) US states.

Conclusion

Brands using ‘natural’, ‘tobacco and water’ and ‘organic’ on packs increased their market share between 2019 and 2022; in some states, market share was over 10% in 2022. Our findings emphasise the importance of regulating these terms and continually monitoring their population impact.
3D large deformation modeling of the 2020 Gjerdrum quick clay landslide
Authors: Tran Quoc-Anh , Rogstad Agnete , Depina Ivan , Fernández Fabricio , Alene Gebray Habtu , Grimstad Gustav , Nordal Steinar
Published: June 2024

A quick clay slide in Gjerdrum, Norway, occurred at 4 a.m. on 30th December 2020, killing 10 people and destroying houses, roads, and other infrastructures. Approximately, 1.35 million cubic meters of clay were released, a large volume liquefied, and debris was transported almost 2 km that the slide was initialized in downstream. An investigation following the slide determined that the slide was initialized in a 30 m high slope after 2-to-2.5 m vertical erosion in a small creek running along the toe of the slope. After the initiation, the slide developed retrogressively in the order of 500 m backward and sideways over a period of about 2 min. A conventional geotechnical slope stability analysis explains the initial slide. However, more advanced numerical tools are needed to simulate the retrogressive mechanism and the debris flow. The aim of the paper is to demonstrate a 3D material point method model to capture some of the mechanisms involved from initiation until the debris comes to rest and how this method can be used to reproduce and study the processes involved in large deformation landslides.
Synthesis of the H-type 1 and Lewis B antigens as 6-aminohexyl glycosides
Authors: Pickles Matisse , Auzanneau France-Isabelle
Published: June 2024

The LebLea heptasaccharide is a tumor-associated carbohydrate antigen that was isolated from the human colonic adenocarcinoma cell line Colo205 and is a good target for the development of anti-cancer immunotherapeutics. However, it displays on its reducing end the Leb tetrasaccharide: α-l-Fuc p-(1→2)-β-d-Gal p-(1→3)-[α-l-Fuc p-(1→4)]-d-GlcNAc p and the H-type 1 (H-1 antigen) trisaccharide: α-l-Fuc p-(1→2)-β-d-Gal p-(1→3)-d-GlcNAc p that are also found on noncancerous tissues. To discover analogues or fragments of LebLea that could be used as immunotherapeutics while not triggering immune responses against Leb and the H-1 antigen, we have synthesized the Leb tetrasaccharide hexyl glycoside and the Leb and H-1 antigens aminohexyl glycosides to be used in ELISA experiments. We describe an improved preparation of the 6- O-benzyl-2,3,4-tri- O-acetyl-α-d-galactopyranosyl bromide in neutral conditions and demonstrate the importance of appropriately “matching” the reactivity of acceptors with that of glycosyl donors. Mono- and di-fucosylation of a disaccharide diol acceptor with per-benzylated thioethyl fucoside activated in situ with bromine and under halide ion catalysis is described and our results are compared to literature reports. We observed that our fucosylation reactions required higher equivalents of fucosyl donor and extended reaction times than previously reported. We propose that the protecting groups on the galactosyl unit led to a reduced reactivity of the acceptor. The protected intermediates were converted to 6-azido hexyl glycosides and submitted to dissolving metal conditions to give 6-aminohexyl glycosides. We also prepared the n-hexyl tetrasaccharide glycoside Leb that will be used as a soluble antigen in competitive ELISA experiments.
Tachyonic instability and spontaneous scalarization in parameterized Schwarzschild-like black holes
Authors: Xu Hengyu , Zhan Yizhi , Zhang Shao-Jun
Published: June 2024

We study the phenomenon of spontaneous scalarization in parameterized Schwarzschild-like black holes. Two metrics are considered, the Konoplya–Zhidenko metric and the Johannsen–Psaltis metric. While these metrics can mimic the Schwarzschild black hole well in the weak-field regime, they have deformed geometries in the near-horizon strong-field region. Such deformations notably influence the emergence of tachyonic instability and subsequent spontaneous scalarization, enabling a clear distinction between these parameterized metrics and the standard Schwarzschild metric. These results suggest a possible way to test the parameterized black holes and thus the Kerr hypothesis by observing the phenomenon of spontaneous scalarization.
Parametric optimization and case study of nanofluid flow between two parallel plates in the presence of Darcy Brinkman Forchheimer: Sensitivity analysis
Authors: Hussain Dilawar , Abbas Munawwar Ali
Published: June 2024

Due to its vast industrial applications and thermal engineering, the investigation of the inconsistent heat and mass transfer that drives the flow of squeezing viscous nanofluids between two plates is an interesting topic. In this case study, we have investigated the heat transfer analysis of unsteady viscous nanofluid between two parallel plates by using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The partial differential equations illustrating the flow model are converted to nonlinear ordinary differential equations by suggesting similarity transformations. The resulting dimensionless and nonlinear ODEs of temperature functions and velocity are solved using the well-known numerical technique bvp4c by transforming the problem into initial value problem from boundary value problem. The results found are consistent with this numerical solution. These numerical values are then used to optimize the different input parameters and to design an experimental model. RSM is used to develop an experimental model for skin friction coefficient. ANOVA tables are generated for input parameters and then sensitivity analysis is performed for output response. Further, the impacts of different parameters on temperature profiles and velocity are graphically explored. The results are compared with the results solved by HPM. The results concurred with this numerical solution. These findings considered much be useful in the application of polymer processing, power transmission, compression, temporary loading of mechanical parts, food processing, cooling water, gravity machinery, modeling of plastic transport in vivo, chemical processing instruments, and demolition due to freezing.
PORTFOLIO MODELS FOR OPTIMIZING DRAWDOWN DURATION
Authors: VEDERNIKOV ANDREI , LIESIÖ JUUSO , SEPPÄLÄ TOMI
Published: June 2024

The drawdown duration, which measures the time elapsed since the portfolio obtained its maximum value, is an important criterion in active portfolio management for institutional investors. Although several optimization models exist for controlling portfolio drawdown magnitude (i.e. the percentage drop in portfolio value from its latest peak value), developing similar models for the drawdown duration has received minimal attention in the literature. Therefore, this paper develops a family of models for optimizing average, maximum and tail drawdown duration formulated as mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) problems, allowing the utilization of powerful solvers to identify optimal asset portfolios. We apply the developed models to real data on historical returns to compare their performance against traditional and drawdown-based portfolio selection models. The results indicate that the developed models lead to decrease in drawdown duration levels both in in-sample and out-of-sample tests. The constructed efficient frontiers also show a clear trade-off between minimizing drawdown duration and maximizing expected returns.
Phase space analysis of torsion cosmology
Authors: Khan Zoya , Rani Shamaila , Jawad Abdul
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we study the dynamical stability analysis by considering the torsion field [Formula: see text] which is proportional to the Hubble parameter and barotropic equation-of-state parameter in the framework of the homogenous and isotropic FLRW metric with non-zero torsion in the scenario of dark matter and dark energy interacting terms. We discuss the stability of the critical points corresponding to the eigenvalues in the presence of dust and radiation at quintessence, [Formula: see text]CDM and phantom regimes by utilizing the different linear and nonlinear interaction models which depend on the energy density. As a result, we observe that the first linear model shows the stable behavior throughout the universe for dust and radiation phase. The other linear and nonlinear models show the stable critical points, computing with the eigenvalues at phantom and [Formula: see text]CDM era with the best fit value of interaction strength and coupling constant for dust and radiation.
Dynamical analysis of hearing loss due to mumps virus with Caputo fractional derivative
Authors: Shanmukha B.
Published: June 2024

Mumps is the most common disease for children, which causes hearing loss in all auditory systems. WHO initiated compulsory vaccination for children who are at age of 12 months to 12 years, since 1967. Children must take two doses of vaccination for mumps. The dynamics of the system describing the mumps transmission is studied in this work. The main aim is to elucidate the nonlinear behavior of the system which can provide insights into the long-term effects of Mumps infection on auditory function. As the fractional-order derivative preserves the impact of system memory, we employ the Caputo fractional derivative as the dynamical system describing modeling to simulate hearing loss in children brought on by the mumps virus. The boundedness existence of the solution and stability analysis of the dynamical system are derived in the framework. The result is derived using a well-known numerical method to capture the corresponding consequences and predict the future consequence of the dynamical system associated with parameters. To testify to the importance of the generalizing classical model with a fractional operator, we plot 2D graphs. This study helps to researcher beginners to understand the essential and fundamental tools while investigating real-world problems.
Chinese traditional painting style automatic classification based on dual-channel feature fusion with multi-attention mechanism
Authors: Liu Yunzhu , Wu Lei
Published: June 2024

Existing classification models for traditional Chinese paintings mostly ignore shallow detail features, which leads to the imprecise classification of styles. To address the above problems, this paper proposes a Chinese traditional painting style automatic classification model based on dual-channel feature fusion with multi-attention mechanism. First, the spatial attention mechanism is introduced to enhance the Swin-Transformer framework to obtain the salient features of Chinese ancient painting images. Second, a dual-channel attention mechanism is constructed to extract global semantic features and local features of Chinese ancient painting images. Finally, the extracted features are fused and categorized based on the softmax classifier. To verify the feasibility and validity of the proposed model, this paper performs simulations on the Chinese painting dataset and compares it with existing algorithms.The average classification accuracy of the proposed model is 90.6[Formula: see text], with an improvement of 3.14[Formula: see text], which is better than the existing model in both visual effects and objective data comparisons.
Utilizing External Knowledge to Enhance Location Prediction for Twitter/X Users in Low Resource Settings
Authors: Liu Yaguang , Singh Lisa
Published: June 2024

Accurate estimates of user location are important for many online services, including event detection, disaster management, and determining public opinion. Neural network-based techniques have proven to be highly effective in predicting user location. However, these models typically require a large amount of labeled training data, which can be difficult to obtain in real-world scenarios. In this article, we present two approaches to tackle the issue of limited training data when predicting city level location. First, we consider a self-supervised approach that trains a state-level model without labeled data and then integrate this knowledge into the training dataset used for city-level predictions. Second, we explore the option of increasing the number of training examples by utilizing external resources to generate
synthetic users
. Finally, we combine these two strategies, exploiting the benefits of both. We empirically evaluate our proposed techniques on multiple Twitter/X datasets and show that our models perform significantly better than the state-of-the-art with improvements of up to 6% for Acc@161 and 8% for F1 score.
IBAQ: Frequency-Domain Backdoor Attack Threatening Autonomous Driving via Quadratic Phase
Authors: Qiu Jinghan , Chen Honglong , Li Junjian , Gao Yudong , Li Junwei , Wang Xingang
Published: June 2024

The rapid evolution of backdoor attacks has emerged as a significant threat to the security of autonomous driving models. An attacker injects a backdoor into the model by adding triggers to the samples, which can be activated to manipulate the model’s inference. Backdoor attacks can lead to severe consequences, such as misidentifying traffic signs during autonomous driving, posing a risk of causing traffic accidents. Recently, there has been a gradual evolution of frequency-domain backdoor attacks. However, since the change of both amplitude and its corresponding phase will significantly affect image appearance, most of the existing frequency-domain backdoor attacks change only the amplitude, which results in a suboptimal efficacy of the attack. In this work, we propose an attack called IBAQ, to solve this problem by blurring semantic information of the trigger image through the quadratic phase. Initially, we convert the trigger and benign sample to YCrCb space. Then, we perform the fast Fourier transform on the Y channel, blending the trigger image’s amplitude and quadratic phase linearly with the benign sample’s amplitude and phase. IBAQ achieves covert injection of trigger information within amplitude and phase, enhancing the attack effect. We validate the effectiveness and stealthiness of IBAQ through comprehensive experiments.
Physics of the Seasonal Sea Ice Zone
Authors: Roach Lettie A. , Smith Madison M. , Herman Agnieszka , Ringeisen Damien
Published: June 2024

The seasonal sea ice zone encompasses the region between the winter maximum and summer minimum sea ice extent. In both the Arctic and Antarctic, the majority of the ice cover can now be classified as seasonal. Here, we review the sea ice physics that governs the evolution of seasonal sea ice in the Arctic and Antarctic, spanning sea ice growth, melt, and dynamics and including interactions with ocean surface waves as well as other coupled processes. The advent of coupled wave–ice modeling and discrete-element modeling, together with improved and expanded satellite observations and field campaigns, has yielded advances in process understanding. Many topics remain in need of further investigation, including rheologies appropriate for seasonal sea ice, wave-induced sea ice fracture, welding for sea ice freeze-up, and the distribution of snow on seasonal sea ice. Future research should aim to redress biases (such as disparities in focus between the Arctic and Antarctic and between summer and winter processes) and connect observations to modeling across spatial scales.
Training in Advanced Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in the United Kingdom
Authors: Chan Jeremy , Sinha Shubhra , Fudulu Daniel P. , Dong Tim , Narayan Pradeep , Angelini Gianni D.
Published: June 2024

Objective. The learning curve of coronary artery bypass grafting with multiple arterial grafting and without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass (off‐pump) is perceived as an advanced subspeciality associated with increased surgical risk. We compared the trends and early clinical outcomes between trainees and consultants as the first operator in the United Kingdom. Methods. All patients who underwent elective or urgent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting from 1996 to 2019 were extracted from the National Adult Cardiac Surgery Audit database. Trends and early clinical outcomes between trainees and consultants as the first operator were compared in the whole cohort and after propensity score matching. Results. Of the total coronary artery bypass graft procedures, trainees performed 24.39% (n = 79759/327025). Trainees performed 27.10% (63934/235920) on‐pump without multiple arterial graft procedures compared to consultants. The consultants had a shorter cardiopulmonary bypass time (82.81 (SD: 35.36) vs 86.21 (SD: 30.07) minutes, p < 0.001) and aortic cross‐clamp time (48.05 (SD: 22.46) vs 50.66 (SD: 19.49) minutes, p < 0.001). However, consultants had a higher mortality (1.6% vs 1.0%, p < 0.001) and incidence of postoperative dialysis (2.1% vs 1.5%, p < 0.001). Trainees performed 16.78% (8089/48220) multiple arterial graft procedures, with no differences compared with consultants for in‐hospital mortality (1.0% vs 0.9%, p = 0.42), cerebral vascular accident (transient ischaemic attack (0.5% vs 0.5%) and permanent stroke (0.6% vs 0.4%), p = 0.33), return to theatre (4.2% vs 4.47%, p = 0.089), postoperative renal dialysis (1.4% vs 1.1%, p = 0.076), and deep sternal wound infection (0.6% vs 0.6%, p = 0.87). Trainees performed 17.17% (8661/41778) off‐pump cases. Consultants had a higher in‐hospital mortality (1.2% vs 0.9%, p = 0.045) with no differences in cerebral vascular accident (transient ischaemic attack (0.2% vs 0.3%) and permanent stroke (0.4% vs 0.4%), p = 0.27), return to theatre (3.8% vs 3.9%, p = 0.69), postoperative renal dialysis (2.0% vs 1.6%, p = 0.059), and deep sternal wound infection (1.0% vs 0.8%, p = 0.66). Conclusion. Trainees in the United Kingdom have adequate exposure to advanced coronary surgery without compromising patients’ safety.
Influence of Concrete Compressive Strength on CFRP Strengthening and Repairing of RC Two‐Way Slabs
Authors: Ojaimi Mohammed F. , Alabdulhady Meyyada Y. , Naser Kadhim Z.
Published: June 2024

In this research, the feasibility of strengthening and repairing two‐way reinforced concrete slabs and the effect of compressive strength on the properties of strengthened and repaired slabs using CFRP sheets were studied. The experimental program includes testing twelve samples. Four samples served as control panels, while four samples were strengthened using CFRP sheets to study the effect of carbon sheets on the ultimate load capacity. Also, the four pretested control panels were also taken and rerepaired using CFRP sheets and retested for the purpose of evaluating their properties after repair. The ultimate load capacity, energy dissipation capacity, initial stiffness, and failure pattern were explained by the experimental results obtained. The experimental results revealed that the use of CFRP strips led to an improvement in the average ultimate loading capacity by 16.2% and 6.45% for the strengthening and repairing system, respectively. Also, the utilization of the CFRP strips as a strengthening system significantly improved the stiffness and the cracking load of RC two‐way slabs. It was also noted that the ultimate loading capacity was proportionally related to the concrete strength for strengthened slabs with an increase of 23.3% for slabs with the highest concrete strength (C: 70).
Incorporating Stud Attachments in the Bar Design for an Implant‐Supported Overdenture
Authors: Papalexopoulos Dimokritos , Partalis Christos , Lampropoulos Panagiotis , Artopoulou Ioli-Ioanna , Sykaras Nikitas
Published: June 2024

Bone resorption following tooth loss might compromise retention, stability, and support of conventional removable prostheses, and for this reason, implant‐supported overdentures are suggested as a viable alternative for completely edentulous patients. Bars, telescopic attachments, or stud attachments have been used to provide retention through a different mechanism of action based on specific design characteristics. The purpose of this report is to thoroughly describe the applied protocol for the fabrication of an implant overdenture supported by two bars incorporating stud attachments. A 67‐year‐old male patient presented to the Postgraduate Clinic of the National and Kapodistrian University in Athens seeking dental rehabilitation. The remaining teeth were characterized with poor prognosis, mainly due to their periodontal status. The proposed treatment plan included the placement of four implants in the maxilla and two implants in the mandible and the fabrication of implant‐supported overdentures. The diagnostic stages revealed adequate prosthetic space that would enable the fabrication of a bar substructure for the maxillary overdenture. To combine the benefits of bars and stud attachments, two bars with four attachments were fabricated. Evaluation of the delivered prosthesis revealed adequate retention, support, and stability achieved with minimal palatal coverage. Patient’s reported satisfaction and quality of life were increased. Recall appointments at one, six, and twelve months did not reveal any adverse effects or patient’s complaints. According to the present case report, different types of attachments may be used after careful study of each case. More studies are needed to report on different aspects of the chosen treatment plan.
Analysis of Influencing Factors of Drivers’ Fault Emergency Response Behavior in CMV‐NCMV Crashes
Authors: Wei Panyi , Huang Jianling , Chen Yanyan , Ma Jianming , Zhang Yunchao , Wang Shaohua , Chen Ning
Published: June 2024

Drivers’ fault emergency response behavior can easily lead to crashes, resulting in significant economic and property losses. Exploring the causes of improper emergency response behavior is crucial for regulating driver behavior and preventing crash. Therefore, based on crashes data between commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) and noncommercial motor vehicles (NCMVs) that occurred in China from 2014 to 2018, this study established a binary logistic regression model. It systematically analyzed the key factors influencing drivers’ fault emergency response behaviors in terms of individuals, vehicles, road conditions, environment, and corporate management. Additionally, it compared the differences in the influencing factors of fault emergency response behaviors between drivers of CMV and NCMV. The results indicate that the model fits well. The presence of faulty emergency response behavior in drivers is significantly correlated with five factors: age, gender, fatigue driving, speeding, and weather conditions. Moreover, these factors have different impacts on CMV drivers and NCMV drivers. Fatigue driving and speeding have a more significant impact on CMV drivers, while other factors are more pronounced for NCMV drivers. This study can provide valuable insights for the development of measures aimed at reducing the severity of CMV‐NCMV crashes.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Anaplasmosis in Simmental Cattle in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Frias Hugo , Murga Luis , Bardales William , Frias Vanessa , Portocarrero-Villegas Segundo Melecio , Segura Portocarrero Tatiana , Arista Miguel , Saucedo-Uriarte José Américo
Published: June 2024

Anaplasmosis, transmitted biologically and mechanically, is one of the most prevalent diseases responsible for high production costs worldwide. In this research, the prevalence and risk factors of anaplasmosis in Simmental cattle raised in the Peruvian Amazon were evaluated. 266 blood samples were collected from bovines of different categories such as calves male, calves females, heifers <1.3 years, heifers >1.3 years, steers, bulls, and cows from the districts of Omia and Molinopampa. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was used to detect antibodies against Anaplasma marginale. Of the 266 animals sampled, 67% were positive for A. marginale. A higher prevalence was determined in the district of Omia (99.3%), while in the district of Molinopampa, 28.7% was obtained. A prevalence of A. marginale was recorded in females (67.7%) and in males (64.8%) (p > 0.05). There is a significant association of the disease with the category of cattle, verifying the highest prevalence of A. marginale in calves male, heifer >1.3 years, and bull. The multiple correspondence analysis shows that San Mateo, Puma Marca, Mashuyacu, Primavera, and Los Olivos have a higher prevalence of anaplasmosis, associated with altitude of 1701–2000 m, spray baths and paddock rotation. Anaplasmosis is prevalent in Simmental cattle from the Peruvian Amazon, with a higher incidence in Omia and in females, considering May to August the critical months and the altitude less than 2000 meters above sea level.
Histopathological and Toxicological Studies on Zebra Fish Using White‐Fruited and Green‐Fruited Varieties of Momordica charantia
Authors: Xavier Jobi , Jose Joel , Reddy Jayarama , KA Paari
Published: June 2024

Momordica charantia is well known for its medicinal properties. It has exhibited various pharmacological activities, such as antidiabetic, anti‐inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Although this plant is used worldwide as a vegetable and medicinal ingredient in herbal medicines, its toxicity studies have not been conducted to date. This study attempts to understand its toxicity. The present study examined the activity of two enzymes, acetylcholinesterase and succinate dehydrogenase, as well as histopathological variations in the liver, intestine, and gills of zebrafish. The results of the acetylcholinesterase assay showed that the concentrations of 40 mg/L and 60 mg/L of the four extracts (leaf and fruit extracts of both varieties) exhibited increased enzyme activity. Interestingly, the leaves of the green fruit variety at a concentration of 60 mg/L showed the highest activity, with a value of 2.824 ± 0.0682 micromoles/min compared to the control value of 1.8347 ± 0.0046 micromoles/min. On the other hand, the succinate dehydrogenase assay revealed that the concentrations of 40 mg/L and 60 mg/L of the extracts decreased the enzyme activity. The highest inhibition was observed in the concentration of 60 mg/L of the leaves of the white‐fruited variety and the green‐fruited variety, with values of 1.884 ± 0.0482 micromoles/min compared to the control value of 2.747 ± 0.0046 micromoles/min. The studies on histopathological changes also demonstrated abnormalities in the brain, liver, intestine, and gills of zebrafish after the exposure to the extracts of M. charantia. The severity of the damage varied from low to high concentraions. In general, this study sheds light on the safety profile of Momordica charantia and highlights its potential toxicity in animal models. The findings suggest that more research is needed to fully understand the toxicity of this plant and its implications for human use.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, and Associated Factors of Voluntary Blood Donation in Selected Towns of Awi Zone, Injibara, Ethiopia
Authors: Tsega Alemu , Mullualem Destaw , Tadesse Belsti Atnkut
Published: June 2024

Background: Blood donation is the process of collecting blood from donors who are at low risk for infection and are unlikely to jeopardize their health by blood donation. It is a lifesaving practice for people who have lost ample volumes of blood as a result of accidents, obstetric and gynecological bleeding, severe anemia, and cancer.

Aim: This study is aimed at assessing knowledge, attitude, practice, and associated factors toward voluntary blood donation in Chagni, Dangila, Injibara, and Jawi towns.

Subject and Methods: A community‐based cross‐sectional study design and multistage sampling technique were employed. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Both descriptive statistics and the multivariate logistic regression model were employed to determine the significance. The association between blood donation knowledge, attitude, practice, and sociodemographic variables was tested using multivariate logistic regression.

Results: In Chagni, 110 (55.6%), Dangila, 162 (79.0%), Injibara, 139 (73.5%), and Jawi, 165 (64.5%), towns had adequate knowledge regarding voluntary blood donation. In Chagni, 141 (74.6%), Dangila, 170 (66.4%), Injibara, 168 (82.0%), and Jawi, 148 (74.7%), towns had an adequate attitude regarding voluntary blood donation. In Chagni, 28 (14.1%), Dangila (15.3%), Injibara (29.3%), and Jawi (12.3%), towns practiced voluntary blood donation. Respondents’ sex, education level, and age were found to be significantly associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice of blood donation. Those who had a degree and above were more likely (AOR = 9.239, 5.789, 5.468, and 9.72 at 95% CI) to know about blood donation relative to those who could not read and write in Chagni, Dangila, Injibara, and Jawi, respectively.

Conclusion: The majority of respondents had adequate knowledge and attitudes toward blood donation but had lower practices toward voluntary blood donation.
Sirt1 Deficiency Promotes Age-Related AF Through Enhancing Atrial Necroptosis by Activation of RIPK1 Acetylation
Authors: Jin Xuexin , Zhang Yun , Zhou Yun , Luo Yingchun , Han Xuejie , Gao Yunlong , Yu Hui , Duan Yu , Shi Ling , Wu Yue , Li Yue
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND:

Aging is one of the most potent risk determinants for the onset of atrial fibrillation (AF). Sirts (sirtuins) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, and their expression declines with aging. However, whether Sirts involved in age-related AF and its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. The present study aims to explore the role of Sirts in age-related AF and delineate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

METHODS:

Sirt1 levels in the atria of both elderly individuals and aging rats were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Mice were engineered to specifically knockout Sirt1 in the atria and right ventricle (Sirt1
mef2c/mef2c
). Various techniques, such as echocardiography, atrial electrophysiology, and protein acetylation modification omics were employed. Additionally, coimmunoprecipitation was utilized to substantiate the interaction between Sirt1 and RIPK1 (receptor-interacting protein kinase 1).

RESULTS:

We discerned that among the diverse subtypes of sirtuin proteins, only Sirt1 expression was significantly diminished in the atria of elderly people and aged rats. The Sirt1
mef2c/mef2c
mice exhibited an enlarged atrial diameter and heightened vulnerability to AF. Acetylated proteomics and cell experiments identified that Sirt1 deficiency activated atrial necroptosis through increasing RIPK1 acetylation and subsequent pseudokinase MLKL (mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein) phosphorylation. Consistently, necroptotic inhibitor necrosulfonamide mitigated atrial necroptosis and diminished both the atrial diameter and AF susceptibility of Sirt1
mef2c/mef2c
mice. Resveratrol prevented age-related AF in rats by activating atrial Sirt1 and inhibiting necroptosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings first demonstrated that Sirt1 exerts significant efficacy in countering age-related AF by impeding atrial necroptosis through regulation of RIPK1 acetylation, highlighting that the activation of Sirt1 or the inhibition of necroptosis could potentially serve as a therapeutic strategy for age-related AF.
The Effects of Mother Tree Size and Flowering Period on Salt Tolerance of Tamarix Austromongolica Seeds in the Yellow River Delta
Authors: Lin Qingzhi , Yang Yaling , Hao Muzheng , Han Xin , Zhang Yuling , Yang Jing , Zheng Mengmeng , Yang Qingshan , Lu Xiaojun
Published: June 2024

Tamarix austromongolica is a two-season flowering plant with a spring and summer flowering period and both flowering periods produce viable seeds, with flowering extending from mid-May to October and seed maturation from mid-June to October. In order to reveal the germination pattern of T. austromongolica seeds in the Yellow River Delta region, this study investigated the salt tolerance of seeds of different age mother trees during the spring and summer flowering periods in the region. Spring and summer flowering seeds of different ground diameter mother trees in the T. austromongolica forest in the region were collected and subjected to seed germination experiments under different concentrations of NaCl solution. The results showed that the diameter grade of the mother tree had a significant impact on seed germination, but had no significant effect on early seedling growth (except for the root length of offspring seedlings during the summer flowering period). As the diameter level of the mother tree increases, the germination rate, germination index, and vitality index of seeds during the spring flowering period first increase and then decrease, with the highest values observed at a ground diameter of 10.0-19.9cm. However, the above indicators of summer flowering seeds gradually decreased with the diameter increasing. There were significant differences in salt tolerance of seeds during different flowering periods. The germination rate and germination index of spring flowering seeds significantly decreased between 11‰ and 15‰, but the effect of salt concentration on summer flowering seed germination was not significant. For the early growth of seedlings, as the salt concentration increased, the root length and seedling height of seed offspring seedlings during spring and summer flowering periods decreased after being higher than 5‰. Compared with spring flowering seeds, summer flowering seeds had higher germination ability and seedling weight under salt stress. Therefore, the salt tolerance of the seeds of T. austromongolica was determined by the size of the mother tree and the flowering period, which is an important strategy for its adaptation to the Yellow River Delta region.