bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-risk human papillomavirus diversity among indigenous women of western Botswana with normal cervical cytology and dysplasia
Authors: Rantshabeng Patricia S. , Tsima Billy M. , Ndlovu Andrew K. , Motlhatlhedi Keneilwe , Sharma Kirthana , Masole Carol B. , Moraka Natasha O. , Motsumi Kesego , Maoto-Mokote Angela K. T. , Eshetu Alemayehu B. , Tawe Leabaneng , Gaolathe Tendani , Moyo Sikhulile , Kyokunda Lynnette T.
Published: October 2024

Background

Cervical cancer remains a public health problem despite heavy global investment in health systems especially in low-and-middle-income countries (LMIC). Prophylactic vaccines against the most commonly detected human papillomavirus (HPV) types in cervical cancers are available and decisions on the selection of vaccine design depends on the prevalence of high-risk (hr) HPV genotypes for a particular region. In 2015, Botswana adopted the use of a quadrivalent HPV vaccine as a primary prevention strategy. Secondary prevention includes cervical smear screening whose uptake remains notably low among indigenous and marginalized communities despite efforts to improve access.

Aim

To determine the prevalence of hrHPV genotypes and cervical lesions’ burden in women from the indigenous and marginalized communities of Botswana.

Methods

This prospective survey enrolled 171 non-HPV vaccinated women aged 21 years and older. Face-to-face interviews, Pap smear screening, hr-HPV and Human Immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) testing were carried out. Conventional Papanicolau smears were analyzed and cervical brushes were preserved for hrHPV testing using the Ampfire Multiplex HR-HPV protocol which detects the following genotypes: HPV 16, 18, 31, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 53, 56, 58, 59 and 68.

Results

In this study, 168/171 (98.6%) of the women consented to HIV testing; 53/171 (31%) were living with HIV and self-reported enrolment on antiretroviral therapy. Among the women examined, 23/171 (13.5%) had cervical dysplasia with most presenting with Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance 8/23 (35%), Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions 8/23 (35%), Atypical Squamous Cells-High Grade 4/23 (17%), Atypical Endocervical Cells 2/23 (9%) and Atypical Endocervical Cell favoring neoplasia 1/23(4%). However, no High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions (HSIL) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were detected. Overall hrHPV prevalence in this study was at 56/171 (32.7%). The most commonly detected hrHPV genotypes in women with cervical dysplasia were HPV39 (6.25%), HPV51 (14.5%), HPV52 (12.5%) and HPV56 (4%). Notably, HPV 16 and 18 were not found in women with cervical dysplasia.

Conclusions

Our study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and distribution of hrHPV genotypes in indigenous and marginalized communities in Botswana, and the need for further investigation of their potential role in cervical carcinogenesis in this population. These results may also serve as baseline data to facilitate future evaluation of the HPV vaccine needs.
Dynamics of osteopontin levels and correlation with parasitemia in acute malaria in Uganda and Sweden
Authors: Mortazavi Susanne E. , Lugaajju Allan , Danielsson Lena , Wu Bingyan , Norrgren Hans , Persson Kristina E. M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Malaria remains a significant public health concern, especially for the deadliest parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. During acute malaria, various cytokines, including osteopontin (OPN), regulate the immune response. OPN has been shown to be protective against malaria in mice. Nonetheless, its precise function and potential ability to control parasites during acute malaria in humans remain poorly understood.

Results

Blood samples were collected from Swedish adults with imported malaria, Ugandan children and adults with symptomatic malaria (including follow-up after 42 days), Ugandans with non-malarial fever and healthy individuals from both Uganda and Sweden. Parasitemia was determined by microscopy. Malaria-negative samples were verified by LAMP. OPN and interferon-γ (IFN- γ) levels were measured using ELISA. In children, OPN levels were significantly higher during acute infection compared to levels after 42 days, whereas Ugandan adults showed no difference. Swedish adults with imported malaria had elevated OPN levels compared to both Swedish controls and Ugandan adults with malaria. Parasitemia was significantly correlated with both OPN and IFN-γ levels across the entire cohort. While a significant correlation between OPN and IFN-γ was evident overall, it remained statistically significant only in Ugandan adults when analyzed by subgroups. This suggests that OPN is not just a general marker of inflammation but may be regulated differently during the development of malaria immunity.

Conclusions

In acute malaria, elevated OPN levels showed a stronger correlation with lack of immunity than age. These findings underscore the potential importance of OPN in malaria, particularly in non-immune individuals.
Passive fit and time efficiency for prefabricated versus conventionally constructed cobalt chromium CAD\CAM 3-unit implant supported frameworks in free end saddle models: a pilot invitro study
Authors: Kamel Mohamed El-Sayed , Alsayed AlHassan Alaa Eldin , ElKhashab Mohamed Amr , Nader Nancy , Radi Iman AbdelWahab
Published: October 2024

Background

The passive fit of 3-unit implant supported prefabricated metal screw-retained prosthesis before implant placement might be difficult. Hence, we aim to evaluate the passive fit and time efficiency of CAD/CAM 3-unit implant supported fixed prostheses that were constructed based on virtual versus those based on actual implant positions in Kennedy Class I models.

Methods

A sample of 5 Kennedy class I models with thin wiry ridges were restored by 20 frameworks bilaterally, 10 based on actual (group A) and 10 based on virtual (group V) implant positions. The models were imaged using cone beam computed tomography and scanned using an intraoral scanner. The STL (Standard Tessellation Language files) and the DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) files were registered on a 3D planning software. A CAD/CAM surgical guide was planned, resin printed and used for installing 6 implants bilaterally. In group V, the framework was designed based on the virtual scan bodies and virtual multi-unit abutments, while in group A intra-oral scanning of the model after attaching the scan bodies was necessary. Frameworks of both groups were milled and tested for passive fit using 8 clinical tests. McNemar and Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to study the effect of the group on passive fit and time efficiency, respectively. The significance level was set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found between group V and group A frameworks regarding passive fit (p-value = 1, OR = 0.5) and time efficiency (P = 0.179, Effect size = 0.948).

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that in free end saddle cases, prefabricated CAD\CAM 3-unit implant-supported cobalt chromium screw retained prostheses can achieve an adequate passive fit. However, their fit might be negatively affected in thin ridges and they might require some adjustments.
Predictors of oral healthcare utilization and satisfaction among Indian migrants and the host population in the Netherlands
Authors: Pabbla Amandeep , Duijster Denise , Aartman Irene H. A. , Agyemang Charles
Published: October 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to explore predictors associated with reasons for visiting an oral healthcare professional (OHP) and satisfaction with OHPs in the Netherlands among the Indian migrants and the host population.

Methods

A random sample was obtained for this cross-sectional questionnaire study. Variables were classified according to the Andersen Behavioural Model of Health Services Utilization. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify significant predictors for reasons for visiting an oral healthcare professional (OHP) (routine checkups and preventive care or visiting only for pain and/or treatment) and satisfaction with OHPs (satisfied or dissatisfied).

Results

The sample consisted of 391 participants (Indian migrants = 147 and host population = 244). Indian migrants with higher internal locus of control (LoC) [OR = 7.73 (95% CI: 2.13;27.99)], more trust in OHPs [OR = 4.12 (95% CI:1.68;10.14)] and higher integration level [OR = 1.09 (95% CI:1.03;1.17)] had higher odds of visiting an OHP for routine checkups and preventive care. In the host population, having dental insurance [OR = 2.64 (95% CI:1.00;6.95)] was significantly associated with increased odds of visiting an OHP for routine checkups and preventive care. For satisfaction, Indians with low paid jobs [OR = 16.26 (95% CI:2.83;93.36)] and those with higher integration levels [OR = 1.29 (95% CI:1.16;1.42)] had higher odds of being satisfied with the Dutch OHPs. Among the host population, those with more trust in OHPs [OR = 2.86 (95% CI:1.19;6.88)] had higher odds of being satisfied.

Conclusion

Our study emphasize that integration levels and trust emerged as two crucial factors, policy makers can leverage upon to improve access to care for Indian migrants.

Clinical trial

N.A as this is a survey based cross sectional study.
Factors associated with scientific production conditions among dental students from the Peruvian capital: an analysis under a multivariable regression model
Authors: Gutierrez-Quevedo Yanira , Ladera-Castañeda Marysela , Castro-Rojas Miriam , Huamani-Echaccaya José , Romero-Velásquez Leysi , Aroste-Andía Rosa , Cervantes-Ganoza Luis , Cayo-Rojas César
Published: October 2024

Background

The purpose of scientific production is to synthesize and capture research for eventual publication. In Peru, scientific production at the undergraduate level is relatively limited. The purpose of this study was to identify the factors associated with scientific production conditions among dental students from the Peruvian capital.

Methods

This cross-sectional and analytical study evaluated 338 dental students from the Peruvian capital using a questionnaire composed of 15 questions on conditions for scientific production. Pearson’s chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were used for bivariate analysis. To evaluate the influential variables, the adjusted Poisson regression model with robust variance using the adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) was employed. The significance level was p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 17.8% of the students carried out research studies, while 1.5% published scientific articles. Conditions for scientific production were considered unfavorable in 28.4% of the cases, while 50.6% were classified as somewhat favorable and 21% as favorable. Students who dedicated < 2 h and ≥ 2 h per week to research were 3.04 and 3.84 times more likely to have favourable conditions for scientific production, respectively, compared to those who had no time for it (APR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.02–9.03 and APR = 3.84, 95% CI: 1.13–13.02; respectively).

Conclusion

A minority of dental students reported favorable conditions for scientific production. On the other hand, students with more weekly time for research are more likely to have favourable conditions for scientific production compared to those with no time.
Exploratory analysis of the potential impact of violence on HIV among female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya: a mathematical modelling study
Authors: Pickles Michael , Mountain Elisa , Bhattacharjee Parinita , Kioko Japheth , Musimbi Janet , Musyoki Helgar , Gichangi Peter , Stannah James , Maheu-Giroux Mathieu , Becker Marissa , Boily Marie-Claude
Published: October 2024

Background

Understanding the frequency of violence experienced by female sex workers (FSWs) and how violence contributes to HIV transmission can help improve HIV programs.

Methods

Using recent recommendations for modelling structural factors and associated causal pathways, we developed a HIV transmission dynamic model for FSWs and their clients in Mombasa, Kenya, mechanistically representing three types of violence (sexual violence, SV; physical violence, PV; police assault and arrest, PAA). Each type of violence affects HIV transmission through key mediators (condom non-use, HIV testing). We parameterized the model using data from a cross-sectional study of FSWs aged 15–24 recruited from a systematic geographical mapping sampling frame in Mombasa, Kenya (Cheuk E et al., Frontiers in Reproductive Health 2(7), 2020). Using this model, calibrated (and cross-validated) to HIV epidemiological and violence outcomes, we estimated the incidence of violence episodes, the contribution of violence to the HIV epidemic measured by the transmission population-attributable fraction, and the potential impact of possible violence interventions.

Results

The median estimated incidence of PAA in 2023 among FSWs who had not previously experienced that type of violence was 0.20 (95% credible interval: 0.17–0.22) per person-year (ppy), about double the incidence of SV and PV (0.10 (0.09–0.11), 0.11 (0.09–0.12), respectively). The incidence of violence was higher among FSWs who had previously experienced violence: the incidence of recurrent PV was 2.65 (1.82–3.37) ppy, while the incidence of recurrent SV and PAA were 1.26 (0.80–1.67) and 1.37 (0.94–1.74 ppy, respectively. In this setting, we estimated that a median of 35.3% (3.4–55.8%) infections in FSWs and clients combined over the next 10 years may be due to all types of violence (and mediators), mainly through reduced condom use in FSWs who have ever experienced SV (34.6% (2.4–55.5%)). Interventions that prevent future violence without mitigating the effects of past violence may only prevent 8.8% (0.8–14.0%) infections over 10 years.

Conclusions

FSWs in Mombasa experience violence frequently. In this population, we find that addressing sexual violence, including mitigating the effects of past violence, is potentially important in reducing HIV transmission in this population. However, the wide uncertainty range shows longitudinal studies are needed to strengthen the evidence of the influence of violence on HIV risk behavior. We find that the recommendations for modelling structural factors provide a useful framework for describing the model.
Innate immune response in COVID-19: single-cell multi-omics profile of NK lymphocytes in a clinical case series
Authors: Barbon Silvia , Armellin Fabrizio , Passerini Verena , De Angeli Sergio , Primerano Simona , Del Pup Laura , Durante Elisabetta , Macchi Veronica , De Caro Raffaele , Parnigotto Pier Paolo , Veronesi Arianna , Porzionato Andrea
Published: October 2024

Background

COVID-19 pandemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) represents the biggest global health emergency in recent decades. The host immune response to SARS-CoV-2 seems to play a key role in disease pathogenesis and clinical manifestations, with Natural Killer (NK) lymphocytes being among the targets of virus-induced regulation.

Methods

This study performed a single-cell multi-omics analysis of transcripts and proteins of NK lymphocytes in COVID-19 patients, for the characterization of the innate immunological response to infection. NK cells were isolated from peripheral blood samples collected from adult subjects divided into 3 study groups: (1) non-infected subjects (Naïve group, n = 3), (2) post COVID-19 convalescent subjects (Healed group, n = 3) and (3) patients that were vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 (Vaccine group, n = 3). Cells were then analysed by the BD Rhapsody System for the single-cell multi-omics investigation of transcriptome and membrane proteins.

Results

The bioinformatic analysis identified 5 cell clusters which differentially expressed gene/protein markers, defining NK cell subsets as “Active NK cells” and “Mature NK cells”. Calculating the relative proportion of each cluster within patient groups, more than 40% of the Naïve group cell population was found to belong to Mature NKs, whereas more than 75% of the Vaccine group cell population belonged to the cluster of Active NKs. Regarding the Healed group, it seemed to show intermediate phenotype between Active and Mature NK cells. Differential expression of specific genes, proteins and signaling pathways was detected comparing the profile of the 3 experimental groups, revealing a more activated NK cell phenotype in vaccinated patients versus recovered individuals.

Conclusions

The present study detected differential expression of NK cell markers in relation to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccine administration, suggesting the possibility to identify key molecular targets for clinical-diagnostic use of the individual response to viral infection and/or re-infection.
HBI: a hierarchical Bayesian interaction model to estimate cell-type-specific methylation quantitative trait loci incorporating priors from cell-sorted bisulfite sequencing data
Authors: Cheng Youshu , Cai Biao , Li Hongyu , Zhang Xinyu , D’Souza Gypsyamber , Shrestha Sadeep , Edmonds Andrew , Meyers Jacquelyn , Fischl Margaret , Kassaye Seble , Anastos Kathryn , Cohen Mardge , Aouizerat Bradley E. , Xu Ke , Zhao Hongyu
Published: October 2024

Methylation quantitative trait loci (meQTLs) quantify the effects of genetic variants on DNA methylation levels. However, most published studies utilize bulk methylation datasets composed of different cell types and limit our understanding of cell-type-specific methylation regulation. We propose a hierarchical Bayesian interaction (HBI) model to infer cell-type-specific meQTLs, which integrates a large-scale bulk methylation data and a small-scale cell-type-specific methylation data. Through simulations, we show that HBI enhances the estimation of cell-type-specific meQTLs. In real data analyses, we demonstrate that HBI can further improve the functional annotation of genetic variants and identify biologically relevant cell types for complex traits.
StratosPHere 2: study protocol for a response-adaptive randomised placebo-controlled phase II trial to evaluate hydroxychloroquine and phenylbutyrate in pulmonary arterial hypertension caused by mutations in BMPR2
Authors: Deliu Nina , Das Rajenki , May Angelique , Newman Joseph , Steele Jo , Duckworth Melissa , Jones Rowena J. , Wilkins Martin R. , Toshner Mark R. , Villar Sofia S.
Published: October 2024

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a life-threatening progressive disorder characterised by high blood pressure (hypertension) in the arteries of the lungs (pulmonary artery). Although treatable, there is no known cure for this rare disorder, and its exact cause is unknown. Mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein receptor type-2 (BMPR2) are the most common genetic cause of familial pulmonary arterial hypertension. This study represents the first-ever trial of treatments aimed at directly rescuing the BMPR2 pathway, repurposing two drugs that have shown promise at restoring levels of BMPR2 signalling: hydroxychloroquine and phenylbutyrate.

Methods

This three-armed phase II precision medicine study will investigate BMPR2 target engagement and explore the efficacy of two repurposed therapies in pulmonary arterial hypertension patients with BMPR2 mutations. Patients will be stratified based on two BMPR2 mutation classes: missense and haploinsufficient mutations. Eligible subjects will be randomised to one of the three arms (two active therapy arms and a placebo arm, all plus standard of care) following a Bayesian response-adaptive design implemented independently in each stratum and updated in response to a novel panel of primary biomarkers designed to assess biological modification of the disease.

Discussion

The results of this trial will provide the first randomised evidence of the efficacy of these therapies to rescue BMPR2 function and will efficiently explore the potential for a differential response of these therapies per mutation class to address causes rather than consequences of this rare disease.

Trial registration

The study has been registered with ISRCTN (ISRCTN10304915, 22/09/2023).
Research progress into the principles and methods underlying capsular typing of Glaesserella parasuis
Authors: Zhu Yaxin , Guan Lijun , Zhang Junfeng , Xue Yun , Zhao Zhanqin
Published: October 2024

Glaesserella parasuis (GPS) is an important bacterial pathogen of swine. Serotype identification has presented a bottleneck in GPS research since it was first identified as the pathogen causing Glässer’s disease in pigs in 1910. This paper presents a systematic review of the history of the development and application of gel immunodiffusion (GID), indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) typing methods for GPS, and the discovery of their shared antigenic basis. It provides a systematic theoretical overview of the immunology and principles underlying the three typing methods and offers new ideas for research into the prevention and control of Glässer’s disease. In 1992, GPS was first classified into serotypes 1–15 using GID based on GPS heat-stable antigens, but about 25% of the strains were found to be non-typeable, and the composition of their antigens for serotyping was unclear. In 2003, the IHA method was established based on saline-extracted antigens of GPS, whose sensitivity and typing rate were higher than for GID, although about 15% of strains were still found to be non-typeable. The results of IHA and GID typing are roughly consistent, since they share the same GPS surface polysaccharide serotyping antigens, although whether these are capsular polysaccharides, lipopolysaccharides, or other polysaccharides, remains to be determined. In 2013, the Capsular polysaccharide (CPS) synthetic gene clusters from GPS serotypes 1–15 were successfully analyzed, confirming that CPS is essential for the formation of antigens for serotyping. In 2015, primers were designed based on the specific target genes of GPS capsules to establish a PCR typing method (H-PCR) for GPS, which, however, could not identify serotypes 5 and 12. In 2017, a new PCR typing method (J-PCR) was established based on the specific target genes of GPS capsules, which could identify serotypes 5 and 12. A combination of the two PCR typing methods enables the typing of almost all GPS strains, and the consistency with GID and IHA was verified using molecular biological methods. The antigenic basis of the three typing methods was shown to involve the GPS capsule. PCR typing methods are characterized by simple operation, fast speed, and low cost, and can successfully solve many problems in GID and IHA serotyping, and so have become widely adopted.
Identification of optimal locations for green space initiatives through GIS-based multi-criteria analysis and the analytical hierarchy process
Authors: Bakolo Charles , Kayitete Laban , de Dieu Tuyizere Jean , Tomlinson James , Fawcett Jade , Alfaro Richard Figueroa
Published: October 2024

Urban green spaces play a vital role in enhancing the well-being of communities and mitigating environmental challenges such as air pollution and global warming. Despite their importance, effective models to allocate these green spaces are often overlooked, particularly in developing countries. This study utilises GIS-based Multi-Criteria Analysis and the Analytical Hierarchy Process to recommend optimal locations for green space interventions in Lilongwe City, Malawi, based on nine factors: population density, proximity to roads, slope, Digital Elevation Model (DEM), Normalized Difference Vegetative Index (NDVI), land cover, existing green space, proximity to water bodies, and nitrogen dioxide concentration. The results show that 0.57% (23,776 hectares) of Lilongwe city is highly suitable while 14.50% (604,596 hectares) is unsuitable for green space interventions, where population density was the most determining factor. The suitability varied across the city, with highly suitable areas predominantly located in the southern part. The study highlights the importance of informed decision-making in urban green space planning, setting a standard for equitable access to green spaces and sustainable urban development.
Sex differences in genotype frequency and the risk of polycythemia associated with rs13419896 and rs2790859 among Tibetan highlanders living in Tsarang, Mustang, Nepal
Authors: Arima Hiroaki , Nishimura Takayuki , Koirala Sweta , Nakano Masayuki , Ito Hiromu , Ichikawa Tomo , Pandey Kishor , Pandey Basu Dev , Yamamoto Taro
Published: October 2024

Background

Tibetan highlanders have adapted to hypoxic environments through genetic mechanisms that avoid hemoglobin concentration increases and prevent polycythemia. Recently, sex differences in hemoglobin dynamics with age have been reported among Tibetan highlanders living in Tsarang. Additionally, concerns have been raised that dietary changes associated with modernization may increase the risk of polycythemia and lifestyle-related diseases among Tibetan highlanders. However, the relationship between genetic polymorphisms and the risk of lifestyle-related diseases in Tibetan highlanders has been investigated in only a few regions. This study aims to elucidate whether polymorphisms in genes related to hypoxic adaptation are associated with the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases and polycythemia and whether these polymorphisms affect hemoglobin dynamics in the residents of Tsarang, Mustang, Nepal.

Methods

Health checkup data from individuals living in Tsarang in Mustang District, Nepal, collected in 2017, were used to determine the prevalence of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, hypoxemia, and polycythemia. DNA was extracted from whole-blood samples, and data for the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs13419896 (EPAS1), rs12619696 (EPAS1), and rs2790859 (EGLN1) were obtained using real-time PCR. The health checkup data were statistically analyzed to determine the associations of these diseases with polymorphisms in genes related to hypoxic adaptation.

Results

A total of 168 participants, comprising 78 males and 90 females, were included in the final analysis. In terms of the prevalence of each disease, only the prevalence of polycythemia significantly differed between sexes (p < 0.01). Additionally, among the three analyzed SNPs, significant sex differences in genotype frequency were observed for rs13419896 and rs2790859. For rs2790859 in females, Tibetan highlanders with the adaptive genotype had a significantly lower incidence of polycythemia (p < 0.01) and significantly lower hemoglobin concentrations (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

This study revealed that there are sex differences in the genotype frequency of gene-related hypoxic adaptations among the residents of Tsarang. The findings also suggested that the rs2790859 polymorphism might be involved in the recent incidence of polycythemia among Tsarang residents. If the frequency of non-Tibetan genotypes increases due to intermixing with other populations in the Mustang District, polycythemia may emerge as a modern disease. It is essential to continue investigating the health status of Mustang residents to elucidate various aspects of hypoxic adaptation and disease susceptibility.
Trajectories of procrastination among Swedish University students over one academic year: a cohort study
Authors: Johansson Fred , Rozental Alexander , Edlund Klara , Grotle Margreth , Rudman Ann , Jensen Irene , Skillgate Eva
Published: October 2024

Background

Procrastination is common among university students and associated with adverse outcomes such as physical and mental health problems. According to the Temporal motivation theory procrastination may vary over time depending on the temporal proximity to goals and deadlines.

Aims

To determine if mean procrastination levels among university students varies over an academic year, and if trajectories of procrastination are moderated by gender identity, perfectionistic strivings, and/or perfectionistic concerns.

Sample

Swedish university students (n = 1410).

Methods

The cohort was followed with web-surveys at four time-points over one academic year (Late semester, Mid semester, After semester, and Early semester). Generalized Estimating Equations were used to estimate mean levels of self-rated procrastination at the different time-points.

Results

We found only small fluctuations in mean procrastination levels over the academic year. Participants with high perfectionistic concerns demonstrated higher mean procrastination levels at all time-points, but neither gender identity, perfectionistic concerns nor perfectionistic strivings affected the slope of the mean procrastination trajectories.

Conclusions

In this cohort of Swedish university students, self-rated procrastination levels were stable over the academic year. Perfectionistic concerns, but not gender identity or perfectionistic strivings, was associated with higher levels of procrastination.
Dynamic shunt flow alterations through patent foramen ovale during off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting induced by airway pressure changes: a case report
Authors: Honda Ayano , Yoshinaga Koichi , Hirasaki Yuji , Iizuka Yusuke , Otsuka Yuji
Published: October 2024

Background

Interatrial right-to-left shunt flow through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) can be caused by changes in heart position for anastomosis during off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB). We herein present a case in which the direction of PFO shunt flow changed with heart position during OPCAB and the ventilation settings after sternal closure.

Case presentation

A 66-year-old man with interstitial pneumonia underwent OPCAB. Preoperative transesophageal echocardiography revealed right-to-left shunt flow through a PFO induced by the Valsalva maneuver. During OPCAB, heart displacement resulted in right-to-left shunting and acute hypoxemia, which quickly improved with increase of inspired oxygen fraction. After chest closure, bidirectional shunt flow developed under increased airway pressure.

Conclusions

Vigilant intraoperative monitoring with TEE and postoperative airway pressure management are important to address shunt flow and hypoxemia due to PFO.
Time-lapse difference seismic inversion based on scattering theory
Authors: Wei Shuying , Huang Guangtan , Cao Yamei
Published: October 2024

Time-lapse seismic monitoring technology is an effective tool for quantitatively estimating subsurface medium variations and plays a crucial role in resource and engineering explorations. Among existing time-lapse inversion methods, the difference inversion technique offers higher accuracy but requires linear inversion operators. During linearization, the background is often approximated as a homogeneous medium, resulting in the loss of effective information. In addition, merely using reflection wave information is not conducive to improving inversion accuracy. However, the true structure of the subsurface is often complex and inhomogeneous, which can easily generate complex wavefields, such as scattering waves, thereby hindering the resolution of differences between time-lapse models. Therefore, incorporating more comprehensive wavefield information is essential for enhancing the accuracy of time-lapse seismic inversion. To address this issue, a wave equation-based time-lapse difference inversion method is developed to retrieve the production-induced property perturbation. In our method, the forward operator is formulated through the scattering wave equation, the operator is linearized through the Born approximation, and the Wentzel-Kramers-Brillouin-Jeffery method is used to approximate the Green’s function with high accuracy for the inhomogeneous background. In this study, time-lapse seismic parallel inversion and difference inversion are conducted using our forward operator. Numerical experiments and application of field seismic data indicate that our time-lapse difference inversion method can realize a more accurate quantitative characterization of time-lapse variations.
A novel neural network prediction model for mineral content based on the data of elemental logging and well logging
Authors: Zhao Fuhao , Pan Jun , Zhao Zhiqiang , Su Zhenguo , Du Huanfu , Hou Wenhui , Huang Weian
Published: October 2024

The mineral content of shale plays an important role in the study of reservoir characteristics. Obtaining high-precision mineral content data from a simple and straightforward method is helpful for the study of reservoir properties. Due to the complex and varied elemental combination of minerals and the lithologic diversity in different formations, there are limitations to the traditional statistical methods for predicting mineral content. In this study, a multisource fusion data set is constructed first using a detailed workflow to process multisource data from elemental logging and conventional well logging from the Funing shale formations in China. A hybrid neural network model consisting of a back-propagation artificial neural network (BP-ANN) and a gated recurrent unit (GRU) structure, with a custom constraint loss function, is developed to predict the mineral contents. The results indicate that the predictive performance of this hybrid multisource model performs statistically significantly better than that of the BP-ANN and GRU models using single-source data. In addition, the accuracy of the hybrid model is further improved by using the custom constraint loss function. This method provides high-resolution distributions of mineral content compared with the X-ray powder diffraction testing method. It will help enhance the understanding of the formation.
Fluid effect on elastic properties of carbonate and implication for CO2 geologic sequestration monitoring
Authors: Yuan Hemin , Zhang Xin , Han De-hua
Published: October 2024

Laboratory measurement of the elastic properties of carbonates saturated with different fluids is crucial for characterizing reservoirs and monitoring CO2 sequestration. However, it is challenging to distinguish the effects of different fluids. We measure eight carbonate samples under varying pressure and fluid saturation conditions and conduct quantitative analysis. The measurements indicate that water saturation can increase P-wave velocity ([Formula: see text]), whereas oil and CO2 saturation may lead to an increase, decrease, or no change in [Formula: see text]. Meanwhile, all fluid saturation reduces the S-wave velocity ([Formula: see text]). The velocities of the dolomite samples are higher and less pressure sensitive than that of limestone samples. Four attributes are adopted to distinguish the fluid effect, including elastic moduli, impedance, [Formula: see text]/[Formula: see text] ratio, and a newly designed fluid discrimination factor F, which is obtained by multiplying P-wave modulus and square value of density change. Among the attributes, the F factor performs the best as it achieved evident and consistent results for all the samples. Rock-physics models are used to simulate elastic behaviors with the differential effective medium model predicting [Formula: see text] the best. The Gassmann’s equation correctly indicates positive or negative changes in rock velocity after fluid saturation even though its prediction does not exactly match the data. This study highlights the impact of various pore fluids on the carbonate elastic properties through laboratory measurement and theoretical modeling and introduces a novel fluid identification factor, providing insights for reservoir seismic characterization and CO2 sequestration monitoring.
Geomechanical modeling of reservoir dynamics associated with shallow injection and production in the Delaware Basin
Authors: Smart Kevin J. , Smye Katie M. , Cawood Adam J. , Ferrill David A. , Hennings Peter H. , Horne Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2024

The Permian Basin is an area of active hydrocarbon production and saltwater disposal as well as associated induced seismicity and other geomechanical responses that threaten the surface environment. Among the important but not yet fully answered questions are: (1) what are the temporal and spatial changes in stress and pore pressure in response to fluid injection and production, and (2) how do these changes relate to slip on preexisting faults and surface deformation? We simulate stress and pore pressure responses to saltwater injection in the Delaware Mountain Group (DMG) and production from the Wolfcamp and Bone Spring Formations with the aid of 2D geomechanical simulations that capture key mechanical stratigraphic units and representative faults. Primary loading consists of localized pore pressure changes that represent fluid injection into the DMG and production from the lowermost portion of the Bone Spring Formation, the entire Wolfcamp A Formation, and the uppermost portion of the Wolfcamp B Formation. Injection leads to pore pressure increase, vertical extension, reduction in mean stress, and increase in differential stress in the DMG. Production leads to decrease in pore pressure, vertical contraction, increase in mean stress, and increase in differential stress in the Bone Spring, and Wolfcamp A and B Formations. The net effect of injection and production in our generalized simulations is normal faulting slip on faults that are relatively shallow in the subsurface, similar to faults that are known to have produced seismogenic rupture. The combination of injection and production reproduces a spatially variant trend in uplift and subsidence, consistent with regional patterns measured in the study area via InSAR analysis. The modeled scenarios with shallow injection and/or production caused only small (<0.2 MPa) stress perturbations to propagate downward to basement, which would be unlikely to cause instability of deep-seated seismogenic faults.
Analysis of shear bands in bulk metallic glasses based on elastoplastic phase transformation theory
Authors: Wang Qiang , Xie Yu-Xin , Zhang Yitong
Published: October 2024

Shear bands in amorphous alloys have been widely observed in uniaxial tension and compression experiments, reflecting strain localization, with plastic deformation occurring within the shear bands. In many instances, failures of bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) occur along the dominant shear bands. In this study, phase transformation theory is applied to investigate the mechanical properties of shear bands, focusing on the analysis of the two-phase deformations. The shear bands and the regions outside them are treated as two distinct phases in equilibrium. The deformation gradient tensor across the interface between these phases is discontinuous. By applying the jump conditions, governing equations are derived. As a case study, the shear bands and surrounding regions of plastic BMGs under uniaxial compression are analyzed, enabling the calculation of the stress associated with phase transformation and the inclination angle of the shear bands. The results obtained from this theoretical model align well with existing experimental and simulation data.
Effective medium theory for viscoelasticity of soft jammed solids
Authors: Mizuno Hideyuki , Ikeda Atsushi
Published: October 2024

The viscoelastic properties of soft jammed solids, such as foams, emulsions, and soft colloids, have been extensively studied in experiments. A particular focus has been placed on the phenomenon of anomalous viscous loss, characterized by a storage modulus

and a loss modulus

, where ω represents the frequency of the applied strain. In this work, we aim to develop a microscopic theory that explains these experimental observations. Our approach is based on effective medium theory (EMT), also referred to as coherent potential approximation theory. By incorporating the effects of contact damping, a key characteristic of soft jammed solids, into the EMT, we offer new insights into the viscoelastic behavior of these materials. The theory not only explains the observed viscoelastic properties but also links the anomalous viscous loss to the marginal stability inherent in amorphous systems. This research lays the groundwork for a microscopic theory that effectively describes the impact of damping on soft jammed solids and their characteristic viscoelastic behaviors.
Beyond Constraint
Authors: Jackson Shona N.
Published: October 2024

In Beyond Constraint, Shona N. Jackson offers a new approach to labour and its analysis by demonstrating the fundamental relation between black and Indigenous People’s sovereign, free, and coerced labour in the Americas. Through the writings of Cedric Robinson, Walter Rodney, C. L. R. James, and Sylvia Wynter, Jackson confronts the elision of Indigenous People’s labour in the black radical tradition. She argues that this elision is an effect of the structural relation of antiblackness to anti-indigeneity through which native and black bodies are arranged on either side of a split between unproductive labour and productive work necessary for capital accumulation and for how we read capital in political economic critique. This division between labour and work forces the radical tradition to sustain the break between black and Indigenous peoples as part of its critical strategies of liberation. To address this impasse, Jackson reads the tradition against the grain for openings to indigeneity and a method for recovering lost labours.
Effect of immediate dentin sealing on the fracture strength of indirect posterior restorations:Systematic review and meta-anlysis protocol.
Authors: Gassara Yosra , Kallala Rim , Dakhli Rihab , Nasri Sarra , Klach Nourhen , Harzallah Belhassen
Published: October 2024

Background Immediate Dentin Sealing (IDS) is a technique that applies an adhesive layer immediately after tooth preparation, prior to the placement of indirect restorations. This method is gaining attention due to its potential to improve the bond strength and mechanical properties of restorations, particularly in the posterior region where restorations endure significant masticatory forces. The objectif of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the effect of IDS on the fracture strength of indirect posterior restorations. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in four databases: Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and PubMed. Inclusion criteria focused on in vitro studies involving human teeth with indirect posterior restorations, published between 2014 and 2023. Studies using IDS were compared to those using conventional methods. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool, and a meta-analysis was performed with a random-effects model. The standard mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to compare fracture strength, with I2 statistics assessing heterogeneity. Forest and funnel plots were employed to visualize results and publication bias, respectively. Discussion The results indicate that IDS generally enhances the fracture strength of indirect posterior restorations, particularly with ceramic materials like lithium disilicate. However, the effectiveness of IDS varies depending on the material and restoration type. While some studies demonstrated improved fracture resistance with IDS, others showed minimal benefit, especially with composite restorations. Additionally, IDS improved marginal adaptation and internal fit but increased the risk of severe failures, such as root fractures. Systematic review registration PROSPERO: CRD42024584545 (Registered on 08/09/2024).
The genome sequence of the Large Red Damselfly Pyrrhosoma nymphula (Sulzer, 1776)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Wawman Denise C. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Pyrrhosoma nymphula (the Large Red Damselfly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Odonata; Coenagrionidae). The genome sequence is 2,117.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 14 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.78 kilobases in length.
Co-design of a nurse handover tool to optimise infection control and antimicrobial stewardship in a low resource setting intensive care unit: A nurse led collaboration
Authors: Bonaconsa Candice , van den Bergh Dena , Charani Esmita , Phillips Thouwybah , Spogter Aletta , Mohamed Aghmat , Peters Dawood , Joubert Ivan , Mendelson Marc
Published: October 2024

Background The quality of intensive care unit (ICU) nursing handover impacts patient safety, including infection prevention and control (IPC) and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) practices. We report a co-designed quality improvement study using a visual, structured nurse handover tool in a low resource setting. Methods The study was conducted with clinical nurses in an 8-bed medical ICU at a tertiary hospital in South Africa. Using a participatory action research (PAR) framework and visual participatory methods, the handover tool development had three phases: data collection, journal club, and co-design. To engage busy nurses and create real-time discussions and input, 7-minute focussed sessions in the ICUs using large-scale graphics to facilitate were used. Qualitative data were thematically analysed. Results Between September – October 2022, baseline data were collected from 16 handovers (46 patient discussions over 4 hours). The tool was co-designed through 18 contact sessions involving 31 nurses (April–June 2023). Variation was observed in patterns of handover structure (sequence of what was presented) and content (type and the level of detail of information provided). An evidence-based visual tool was co-designed to identify and manage key patient care risk factors. The tool included a structured section to report on IPC and AMS. Nurses reported the visual prompts to be beneficial to ensuring consistent inclusion of critical information in handovers. Conclusions An innovative approach involving ICU nurses in co-designing a visual handover tool resulted in a structured method for systematically reporting patient care risk factors, body systems, IPC, and AMS. Implementation and dissemination in this unit, and expansion to other units, is underway to promote sustainable change in nursing clinical practices.
The genome sequence of a hoverfly, Eumerus sabulonum (Fallén, 1817)
Authors: Mitchell Ryan ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from a female hoverfly, Eumerus sabulonum (Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Syrphidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 712.10 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 6 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.23 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of lesser burdock, Arctium minus (Hill) Bernh. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Christenhusz Maarten J. M. , Martin Claudia A. ,   Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Genome Acquisition Lab,   Plant Genome Sizing collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly of a diploid specimen of Arctium minus (lesser burdock; Tracheophyta; Magnoliopsida; Asterales; Asteraceae). The genome sequence is 1,903.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 18 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial and plastid genome assemblies have lengths of 312.58 kilobases and 152.71 kilobases, respectively. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 27,734 protein-coding genes.