bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consistent Euler–Bernoulli beam theory in statics for gradient elasticity based on Laplacians of stress and strain
Authors: Broese Carsten , Tsakmakis Charalampos , Üngör Özer
Published: July 2023

The Euler–Bernoulli beam bending theory in engineering mechanics assumes that the material behavior is isotropic elastic and that plane cross sections remain plane and rigid. It is well-known that this theory suffers from inconsistencies that, e.g., the shear strain is always vanishing, whereas the shear stress does not vanish. In recent work, consistent Euler–Bernoulli beam theories in classical and explicit gradient elasticities were accomplished by assuming the constitutive response to be anisotropic elastic, subject to internal constraints. This approach is extended in the present paper to get consistent Euler–Bernoulli beam theory for gradient elasticity based on Laplacians of stress and strain. The developed beam theory is employed to discuss bending of cantilever beams.
Risk factors for post-acute sequelae of COVID-19: Survey results from a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Munipalli Bala , Ma Yaohua , Li Zhuo , Ganesh Ravindra , Knight Dacre , Logvinov Ilana I , Paul Stefan N , Delaney Troy R , Abu Dabrh Abd Moain
Published: July 2023

Identifying risk factors for post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) is important. We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional survey study to define and characterize risk factors for severe COVID-19 in adults (≥18 years) treated at our virtual COVID-19 clinic from March 1, 2020, through March 31, 2021. We assessed patient demographics, symptom types, and persistence, incidence of PASC, and COVID-19–caused hospitalizations. Surveyed patients were also asked to rate their perception of the severity of their acute COVID-19 symptoms. Continuous variables were summarized descriptively. Differences among groups categorized by acute COVID-19 symptom severity level (mild/very mild, moderate, and severe/very severe) were evaluated with the Kruskal–Wallis rank sum test for continuous measures and the Pearson χ2 test for categorical measures. A total of 3094 adults completed the survey. More respondents with severe/very severe acute COVID-19 symptoms reported having PASC than did those with mild/very mild and moderate acute symptoms. A significantly greater proportion of respondents with PASC were women (68.4% vs 56.7%, p < 0.001), had been hospitalized (12.2% vs 4.4%, p < 0.001), reported having negative psychological COVID-19–related repercussions (39.9% vs 15.3%, p < 0.001), and required more than 1 month to resume normal activities (38.8% vs 12.9%, p < 0.001) than did those without PASC. These findings may improve our understanding of PASC and provide a framework for early recognition of and intervention for patients at higher risk for PASC. Further research is needed to understand the predictors of persistent symptoms after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and the risk of PASC.
Chinese Emotionality in Chinese Emic Concepts and its Relevance for Discourse - Influences from Ecology, Thought Systems and Folk Religion
Authors: Cruz Ana
Published: July 2023

Emotions are identified, categorised and expressed differently by different cultures and societies, what is also related to distinct reasoning (regarding which emotions are appropriate to a certain situation, time, or place, and the adequate way to express them, amongst others). A myriad factors contribute to this differentiated cultural development respecting emotionality, being geographical constrictions, history, and thought systems merely a few of them. Furthermore, discourse can be understood as a way through which culture is expressed. Chinese people have a common identity framework that dates back to a few millennia. Moreover, their cultural idiosyncrasies have a rich emphasis on emotional analysis and regulation. This work thus intends to present a few aspects of Chinese culture and society that are relevant to Chinese individuals’ perception and expression of emotionality in their everyday life, introducing also this society’s emphasis on moral, social and aesthetic emotions, and their work in contemporary Chinese discourse.
The new normal: Online political fandom and the co-opting of morals
Authors: Le Clue Natalie
Published: July 2023

This paper focuses on the under-studied and complex aspect of toxic fan practices by analysing the discourse surrounding the Twitter hashtags #CrookedHillary and #LockHerUp as used throughout the 2016 Presidential Election in the United States. Based on the analysis of these hashtags, the previously ‘normal’ and ‘acceptable’ type of discourse has been co-opted into what can, arguably, be termed as toxic rhetoric and fan behaviour on Twitter. The results of this paper point to an acceptance by fans of being immersed in toxic practices despite a paradigmatic relocation of what is ‘normal’ towards more unchecked, unethical, and toxic behaviour.
A Community-Defined Approach to Address Trauma Among Cambodian Immigrants and Refugees
Authors: Sabado Parichart , Kuoch Kimthai , Sngiem Susana , Peong Vattana , Chan Ladine , Hopson Chan , Veng Tongratha , Colfax Gary , Tham Lavyn , Sen-Matthews Amina , Ung Virak , Tieng Pearun , Siphan Crystal , Dance Jessica , Chang Kyle , Doxey Jasmine , Wood Jefferson , D’Anna Laura
Published: July 2023

Asian American and Pacific Islanders are one of the fastest growing and most diverse groups in the United States. Yet, they are often aggregated as a single group, masking within-group differences in rates of disease and demographic characteristics commonly associated with elevated health risk. While more than four decades have passed since the Khmer Rouge genocide, Cambodians continue to experience trauma-related psychiatric disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder and major depression. Funded by the California Department of Public Health Office of Health Equity, the Community Wellness Program (CWP) aimed to reduce mental health disparities among Cambodians in Long Beach and Santa Ana, California, using community-defined approaches. The 6-month program comprised community outreach, educational workshops, strengths-based case management, and social and spiritual activities. Our study aimed to examine the effects of the CWP on trauma symptoms. Program evaluation followed an incomplete stepped wedge waitlist design with two study arms. A linear mixed models analysis revealed that participants reported fewer trauma symptoms as a result of participation in the CWP and that participants experienced fewer symptoms over time. This is an especially important finding, as trauma can lead to long-term individual health effects and to social and health repercussions on an entire cultural group by way of intergenerational trauma. As the number of refugees and displaced individuals continues to grow, there is an urgent need for programs such as the CWP to prevent the lasting effects of trauma.
Pulsatile Deformations of a Conformable Descending Thoracic Aortic Endograft in Aneurysm, Dissection, and Blunt Traumatic Aortic Injury Patients
Authors: Cheng Christopher P. , Suh Ga-Young , Moainie Sina L. , Stern Jordan R. , Szeto Wilson Y.
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

This study presents analytic techniques to quantify cardiac pulsatility-induced deformations of thoracic aortic endografts in patients with thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), dissection (TAD), and blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR).

Technique:

We analyzed 19 image data sets from 14 patients treated for TAA, TAD, and BTAI with cardiac-gated post-TEVAR CTs. Systolic and diastolic geometric models were constructed and diametric, axial, and bending deformations were quantified. For patients with cardiac-gated pre-op scans, the damping of pulsatile diametric distension was computed. Maximum localized diametric distension was 2.4±1.0%, 4.2±1.7%, and 5.5±1.6%, and axial deformation was 0.0±0.1%, −0.1±0.3%, and 1.1±0.6% in the endografts of TAA, TAD, and BTAI cohorts, respectively. Diametric distension damping from pre- to post-TEVAR was ~50%. Diametric and bending deformations were localized at certain axial positions on the endograft, and the inner curve bends more than the centerline, especially adjacent to overlapping regions.

Conclusion:

The presented techniques support investigation of multi-axial endograft deformations between disease causes and geometric locations on the device. Discretized quantification of deformation is needed to define device fatigue testing conditions and predict device durability in patients.

Clinical Impact

This study demonstrates analytic techniques to quantify discretized deformation of thoracic endografts. Cardiac-resolved computed tomography is sometimes acquired for surgical planning and follow-up, however, the dynamic data are not typically used to quantify pulsatile deformations. Our analytic techniques extract the centerline and surface geometry of the stented thoracic aorta during the cardiac cycle, which are used to quantify diametric, axial, and bending deformations to provide better understanding of device durability and impact on the native anatomy.
Preserving the Tangible Material Culture of the Shona Traditional Music Legacy: An Applied Ethnomusicological Report
Authors: Matiure Perminus
Published: July 2023

This article focuses on the preservation of the tangible material culture of the Shona traditional music legacy. It reports on how the author collected and deposited the Shona tangible materials used during both sacred and secular contexts. For this research, an applied action research methodology was employed together with ethnography. Ethnographic fieldwork was conducted in Hwedza, Chikomba, Bhuhera, and Gweru, and the applied action approach informed the preservation of tangible materials. The findings indicated that the paradigm shift in religious belief, rural-to-urban migration, and modern technology are threatening the sustenance of the Shona traditional materials and that there is a need to protect them before they disappear. As a mitigative measure, the author collected some musical instruments and traditional objects and deposited them in a local departmental music archive at a university in Zimbabwe. It is therefore recommended that more collections be done to safeguard the vulnerable music heritage of the Shona.
Towards recovery of an endangered Pacific island endemic: Experimental evidence for shortening juvenility of Serianthes plants using a shade and trellis system to generate vigorous growth and precocious flowering
Authors: Marler Thomas E.
Published: July 2023

Background and Research Aims

Conservationists aiming to establish seed orchards or restoration plantings benefit from methods that reduce tree juvenility. Previous studies suggest that seedling and sapling mortality is the major limitation to natural population recovery of the critically endangered Serianthes nelsonii. To enable effective restoration actions new methods are required to reduce sapling mortality.

Methods

Ex situ experiments were used to determine if trellised, shaded growth conditions would reduce juvenility of Serianthes saplings. Serianthes kanehirae was used as a surrogate for S. nelsonii. Stem growth was trained horizontally to a wire trellis in shaded tunnels of differing lengths (0, 3, 6, 9 or 12 m). Time to reach the end of each tunnel, and subsequent vertical stem growth in full sun were recorded until flower production commenced.

Results

The shortest S. kanehirae juvenile phase occurred under 12 m tunnels, with first flower production within a year (351 ± 10 days, mean ± SE). The juvenile phase increased in duration as tunnel length shortened. The control plants did not produce flowers during the study.

Conclusion

Horizontal trellised support of shaded stems was effective in reducing juvenile phase duration of Serianthes saplings.

Implications for Conservation

Serianthes seed orchards may use shaded trellises to produce seeds on young plants to rapidly boost species recovery efforts. The production of seeds in managed conservation gardens may improve recovery efforts by reducing the need to remove seeds from in situ communities. Therefore, this simple protocol may prove beneficial for both in situ and ex situ conservation of all federally listed woody plant species in the region.
Could Children’s Gender Predict Their Parents’ Housework Behavior?
Authors: Sun Xiaodong , Lai Kaisheng , Han Hong , Yang Chenyan
Published: July 2023

This study’s objective was to examine whether parents show different patterns in housework behavior in relation to children’s gender. Previous studies have suggested that children’s gender might shape family processes through various paths. However, in married couples, housework behavior is mainly explained by the economic or structural differences between partners, but little is known about the potential relevance between children’s gender and parents’ housework behavior. Using nationally representative data from the Chinese General Social Survey, we examined the link between children’s gender and parents’ weekly housework hours. Two dichotomous indicators represented children’s gender: having at least one son (or not) and having at least one daughter (or not). An ordinary least squares regression model was employed for the analysis. The results indicated that parents who have at least one son, rather than those who have at least one daughter, showed significant differences in housework behavior, with mothers spend more time on housework whereas fathers spend less. The findings suggest that parents do behave differently in relation to children’s gender. By emphasizing its symbolic attribute, we argue that children’s gender constitutes part of the social gender structure related to family processes.
“She’s the Anti-Midas, Everything Turns to Crap”: Evocative Metaphors Managers and Employees Use to Describe Managerial Attempts at Enacting Leadership
Authors: Omilion-Hodges Leah M. , Shank Scott E.
Published: July 2023

Although meta-analyses provide clear evidence of which leader behaviors result in outcomes such as employee performance, commitment, and intent to leave, qualitative approaches are necessary to understand how managers perceive and enact their roles in situ. In this mixed methods study, in-depth interviews with managers are considered in tandem with open-ended responses from managers. By soliciting metaphors from both managers and members, we can better exemplify the interdependent nature of this relationship. Data indicate metaphors describe powerful, empowered, or powerless managers, where these categories are then mapped and put into conversation with classic and contemporary approaches to enacting leadership. Findings help to explain the perceptual gap often reported between leaders and members, and pragmatic findings are offered for employees of all ranks and HR managers.
Childhood-onset Erdheim-Chester disease in the molecular era: clinical phenotypes and long-term outcomes of 21 patients
Authors: Pegoraro Francesco , Mazzariol Martina , Trambusti Irene , Bakhshi Sameer , Mallick Saumyaranjan , Dunkel Ira J. , van den Bos Cor , Tezol Özlem , Shan Shijun , Ocak Suheyla , Giordano Flavio , De Fusco Carmela , Gaspari Stefania , Buccoliero Anna Maria , Coniglio Maria Luisa , Buti Elisa , Romagnani Paola , Picarsic Jennifer , Donadieu Jean , Diamond Eli L. , Emile Jean-François , Sieni Elena , Haroche Julien , Vaglio Augusto
Published: July 2023

Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a rare histiocytic disorder that can present as a localized infiltration of foamy histiocytes or a multisystem disease that may be life-threatening. It is extremely rare in children. Pegoraro and colleagues present the clinical and molecular features of 21 patients with pediatric ECD through a large international collaboration, documenting that it resembles its adult counterpart, with similar molecular features and responses to agents targeting BRAF and MEK.
Ciclopirox ethanolamine preserves the immature state of human HSCs by mediating intracellular iron content
Authors: Talkhoncheh Mehrnaz Safaee , Baudet Aurélie , Ek Fredrik , Subramaniam Agatheeswaran , Kao Yun-Ruei , Miharada Natsumi , Karlsson Christine , Oburoglu Leal , Rydström Anna , Zemaitis Kristijonas , Alattar Abdul Ghani , Rak Justyna , Pietras Kristian , Olsson Roger , Will Britta , Larsson Jonas
Published: July 2023

Culture conditions in which hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) can be expanded for clinical benefit are highly sought after. To elucidate regulatory mechanisms governing the maintenance and propagation of human HSCs ex vivo, we screened libraries of annotated small molecules in human cord blood cells using an optimized assay for detection of functional HSCs during culture. We found that the antifungal agent ciclopirox ethanolamine (CPX) selectively supported immature CD34+CD90+ cells during culture and enhanced their long-term in vivo repopulation capacity. Purified HSCs treated with CPX showed a reduced cell division rate and an enrichment of HSC-specific gene expression patterns. Mechanistically, we found that the HSC stimulating effect of CPX was directly mediated by chelation of the intracellular iron pool, which in turn affected iron-dependent proteins and enzymes mediating cellular metabolism and respiration. Our findings unveil a significant impact of iron homeostasis in regulation of human HSCs, with important implications for both basic HSC biology and clinical hematology.
Leptin/obR signaling exacerbates obesity-related neutrophilic airway inflammation through inflammatory M1 macrophages
Authors: Wang Yang , Wan Rongjun , Hu Chengping
Published: July 2023

Background

Obesity-related asthma is a kind of nonallergic asthma with excessive neutrophil infiltration in the airways. However, the underlying mechanisms have been poorly elucidated. Among the adipokines related to obesity, leptin is related to the inflammatory response. However, little is understood about how leptin acts on the leptin receptor (obR) in neutrophilic airway inflammation in obesity-associated asthma. We explored the inflammatory effects of leptin/obR signaling in an obesity-related neutrophilic airway inflammation mouse model.

Methods

We established a neutrophilic airway inflammation mouse model using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization and OVA challenge (LPS + OVA/OVA) in lean, obese, or db/db (obR deficiency) female mice. Histopathological, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) inflammatory cell, and lung inflammatory cytokine analyses were used to analyze airway inflammation severity. Western blotting, flow cytometry, reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to evaluate the underlying mechanisms. In vitro bone marrow‐derived macrophage (BMDM) and bone marrow-derived neutrophil experiments were performed.

Results

We found that the serum leptin level was higher in obese than in lean female mice. Compared to LPS/OVA + OVA-treated lean female mice, LPS/OVA + OVA-treated obese female mice had higher peribronchial inflammation levels, neutrophil counts, Th1/Th17-related inflammatory cytokine levels, M1 macrophage polarization levels, and long isoform obR activation, which could be decreased by the obR blockade (Allo-Aca) or obR deficiency, suggesting a critical role of leptin/obR signaling in the pathogenesis of obesity-related neutrophilic airway inflammation in female mice. In in vitro experiments, leptin synergized with LPS/IFN-γ to promote the phosphorylation of the long isoform obR and JNK/STAT3/AKT signaling pathway members to increase M1 macrophage polarization, which was reversed by Allo-Aca. Moreover, leptin/obR-mediated M1 macrophage activity significantly elevated CXCL2 production and neutrophil recruitment by regulating the JNK/STAT3/AKT pathways. In clinical studies, obese patients with asthma had higher serum leptin levels and M1 macrophage polarization levels in induced sputum than non-obese patients with asthma. Serum leptin levels were positively correlated with M1 macrophage polarization levels in patients with asthma.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate leptin/obR signaling plays an important role in the pathogenesis of obesity-related neutrophilic airway inflammation in females by promoting M1 macrophage polarization.

Graphical abstract
Levcromakalim provokes an acute rapid-onset migraine-like phenotype without inducing cortical spreading depolarization
Authors: Alpay Berkay , Cimen Bariscan , Akaydin Elif , Bolay Hayrunnisa , Sara Yildirim
Published: July 2023

Background

Migraine headache attacks and accompanying sensory augmentation can be induced by several agents including levcromakalim (LVC), that is also capable of provoking aura-like symptoms in migraineurs. We investigated whether single LVC injection causes acute migraine-like phenotype in rats and induces/modulates cortical spreading depolarization (CSD), a rodent model of migraine aura.

Methods

Wistar rats were administered LVC (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and compared to control (CTRL, vehicle, i.p.) and nitroglycerin (NTG, 10 mg/kg, i.p.) groups. Von Frey filaments were used to examine the periorbital and hind paw mechanical allodynia. Dark–light box (DLB), elevated plus maze (EPM), and open field arena (OFA) were used to evaluate light sensitivity and anxiety-related behaviors. The effects of LVC on CSD parameters, somatosensory evoked potentials, and baseline dural EEG (electroencephalography) were investigated. Possible CSD-induced c-fos expression was studied with Western Blot. Blood–brain barrier integrity in cortex was examined with Evans blue assay.

Results

LVC and NTG administration robustly reduced periorbital mechanical thresholds in rats and induced anxiety-like behaviors and photophobia within 30 and 120 min, respectively. LVC induced migraine-like phenotype recovered in 2 h while NTG group did not fully recover before 4 h. Both LVC and NTG did not provoke DC (direct current) shift, EEG alterations or cortical c-fos expression characteristic to CSD. LVC did not induce de novo CSD and affect KCl (potassium chloride)-induced CSD parameters except for an increase in propagation failure. However, NTG significantly increased both CSD susceptibility and propagation failure. Somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) configurations were not altered in both LVC and NTG groups, but SSEP latencies were prolonged after CSD. Acute LVC or NTG injection did not increase cortical BBB permeability.

Conclusions

Single LVC administration induced the fastest manifestation and recovery of acute migraine-like phenotype which was not mediated by CSD waves in the cerebral cortex. We suppose LVC triggered rapid-onset migraine-like symptoms are probably related to functional alterations in the trigeminal nociceptive system and K+ channel opening properties of LVC. Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of this nociceptive window, may provide a novel target in migraine treatment.
Combining host and rumen metagenome profiling for selection in sheep: prediction of methane, feed efficiency, production, and health traits
Authors: Hess Melanie K. , Zetouni Larissa , Hess Andrew S. , Budel Juliana , Dodds Ken G. , Henry Hannah M. , Brauning Rudiger , McCulloch Alan F. , Hickey Sharon M. , Johnson Patricia L. , Elmes Sara , Wing Janine , Bryson Brooke , Knowler Kevin , Hyndman Dianne , Baird Hayley , McRae Kathryn M. , Jonker Arjan , Janssen Peter H. , McEwan John C. , Rowe Suzanne J.
Published: July 2023

Background

Rumen microbes break down complex dietary carbohydrates into energy sources for the host and are increasingly shown to be a key aspect of animal performance. Host genotypes can be combined with microbial DNA sequencing to predict performance traits or traits related to environmental impact, such as enteric methane emissions. Metagenome profiles were generated from 3139 rumen samples, collected from 1200 dual purpose ewes, using restriction enzyme-reduced representation sequencing (RE-RRS). Phenotypes were available for methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, the ratio of CH4 to CH4 plus CO2 (CH4Ratio), feed efficiency (residual feed intake: RFI), liveweight at the time of methane collection (LW), liveweight at 8 months (LW8), fleece weight at 12 months (FW12) and parasite resistance measured by faecal egg count (FEC1). We estimated the proportion of phenotypic variance explained by host genetics and the rumen microbiome, as well as prediction accuracies for each of these traits.

Results

Incorporating metagenome profiles increased the variance explained and prediction accuracy compared to fitting only genomics for all traits except for CO2 emissions when animals were on a grass diet. Combining the metagenome profile with host genotype from lambs explained more than 70% of the variation in methane emissions and residual feed intake. Predictions were generally more accurate when incorporating metagenome profiles compared to genetics alone, even when considering profiles collected at different ages (lamb vs adult), or on different feeds (grass vs lucerne pellet). A reference-free approach to metagenome profiling performed better than metagenome profiles that were restricted to capturing genera from a reference database. We hypothesise that our reference-free approach is likely to outperform other reference-based approaches such as 16S rRNA gene sequencing for use in prediction of individual animal performance.

Conclusions

This paper shows the potential of using RE-RRS as a low-cost, high-throughput approach for generating metagenome profiles on thousands of animals for improved prediction of economically and environmentally important traits. A reference-free approach using a microbial relationship matrix from log10 proportions of each tag normalized within cohort (i.e., the group of animals sampled at the same time) is recommended for future predictions using RE-RRS metagenome profiles.
Prediction of difficult laryngoscopy / difficult intubation cases using upper airway ultrasound measurements in emergency department: a prospective observational study
Authors: Sotoodehnia Mehran , Khodayar Maryam , Jalali Alireza , Momeni Mehdi , Safaie Arash , Abdollahi Atefeh
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Difficult laryngoscopy and intubation are serious problems among critically ill patients in emergency department (ED) so utility of a rapid, accurate and noninvasive method for predicting of these patients are necessary. Ultrasonography has been recently used in this regard and this study was conducted to investigate the correlation of some introduced upper airway ultrasound parameters with difficult laryngoscopy / difficult intubation in patients referred to the ED.

Method

In this prospective observational study all patients ≥ 18-year-old who had an indication for rapid sequence intubation (RSI) were included. Ultrasound parameters including Hyoid Bone Visibility (HBV), Distance from Skin to Hyoid Bone (DSHB), Distance from Skin to Vocal Cords (DSVC), Distance from Skin to Thyroid Isthmus (DSTI), and Distance between Arytenoids Cartilages (DBAC) were measured in all cases. The patients underwent RSI and thereafter the patients’ baseline characteristics, Cormack-Lehane grade, number of attempted laryngoscopy were recorded in a pre-prepared check list and compared with measured ultrasound parameters. The “difficult laryngoscopy” was defined as Cormack-Lehane classification grades III/IV; and need for more than 3 intubation attempts was considered as “difficult intubation”.

Results

One hundred and twenty-three patients (52% male) were included of whom 10 patients (8.1%) were categorized as difficult laryngoscopy cases; and just 4 (3.3%) cases underwent more than 3 laryngoscopy attempts who considered as difficult intubation cases. The mean age of the patients in non-difficult and difficult intubation groups were 69.2 ± 15.16 and 68.77 ± 17.37 years, respectively (p > 0.05). There was no significant relationship between difficult laryngoscopy and HBV (p = 0.381) but has significant correlation with difficult intubation (p = 0.004). The DSHB had a significant correlation with difficult laryngoscopy (p = 0.002) but its correlation with difficult intubation was not significant (p = 0.629). The DSVC and DSTI had a significant relationship with both difficult laryngoscopy (p = 0.003 and p = 0.001), and difficult intubation (p = 0.025 and p = 0.001). The DBAC had not significant correlation neither with the difficult laryngoscopy (p = 0.142), nor with difficult intubation (p = 0.526).

Conclusion

The findings showed that ultrasound parameters including soft tissue DSHB, DSVC and DSTI could be proper predictors of difficult laryngoscopy. Also, HBV, DSVC and DSTI may be proper predictors for difficult intubation. But DBAC was not useful in this regard.
Importance of preoperative total colonoscopy and endoscopic resection after self-expandable metallic stent placement for obstructive colorectal cancer as a bridge-to-surgery
Authors: Itonaga Shuichi , Hamada Shohei , Ihara Eikichi , Honma Hitoshi , Fukuya Hiroki , Ookubo Akito , Sasaki Taisuke , Yoshimura Daisuke , Nakamuta Makoto , Sumida Yorinobu , Harada Naohiko
Published: July 2023

Background and aim

Colonic self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement enables preoperative total colonoscopy (TCS) in patients with obstructive colorectal cancer. Following SEMS placement, it is possible to assess the presence or absence of synchronous proximal colon cancers and perform preoperative endoscopic resection (ER) for neoplastic lesions proximal to the primary lesion. The objective of this study was to determine the usefulness and safety of preoperative TCS and ER after SEMS placement in patients with obstructive colorectal cancer.

Methods

From April 2016 to March 2022, we enrolled 100 patients with obstructive colorectal cancer who underwent SEMS placement, including 86 patients who underwent preoperative TCS after SEMS placement. Complications associated with preoperative TCS and ER after SEMS placement and the characteristics of the neoplastic lesions were assessed.

Results

The success rate of SEMS placement as bridge-to-surgery was 98.0%; six patients had associated complications. Preoperative TCS was performed 8 (range: 1–30) days after SEMS placement. Four patients had synchronous advanced cancers. Nine non-advanced synchronous cancers, 116 adenomas, and 18 sessile-serrated lesions were treated by preoperative TCS and ER after SEMS placement. No procedure-related complications, namely stent migration, bleeding, and perforation were observed. Forty-five patients underwent follow-up TCS 1 year after surgery. Only one patient with submucosal invasive cancer required a second surgery.

Conclusions

Preoperative TCS and ER after SEMS placement was performed with no complications. This approach allows preoperative evaluation of the entire colon and the treatment of precancerous lesions. (240 words)
Incidence of nontuberculous mycobacteria infections among persons with cystic fibrosis in the United States (2010–2019)
Authors: Marshall Julia E. , Mercaldo Rachel A. , Lipner Ettie M. , Prevots D. Rebecca.
Published: July 2023

Background

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous, environmental bacteria that can cause chronic lung disease. Persons with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) are at high risk for NTM. Approximately 1 in 5 pwCF in the United States (U.S.) is affected by pathogenic NTM species, and incidence rates of NTM have been increasing among pwCF as well as in the general population. Prevalence of NTM pulmonary infections (PI) varies widely across the United States because of geographic variation in environmental exposures. This study will present updated region-level incidence of NTM infections in the cystic fibrosis (CF) population in the U.S.

Methods

We used the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry (CFFPR) data for the period 2010 through 2019. Our study population comprised persons with CF ≥ 12 years of age who had been tested for NTM PI. We included only registry participants with NTM culture results. We defined incident cases as persons with one positive mycobacterial culture preceded by ≥ two negative mycobacterial cultures. We defined non-cases as persons with ≥ two negative mycobacterial cultures. We estimated average annual NTM PI incidence by region. Using quasi-Poisson models, we calculated annual percent change in incidence by region.

Results

We identified 3,771 incident NTM infections. Of these cases, 1,816 (48.2%) were Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infections and 960 (25.5%) were Mycobacterium abscessus infections. The average annual incidence of NTM PI among pwCF in the U.S. was 58.0 cases per 1,000 persons. The Northeast had the highest incidence of MAC (33.5/1,000 persons tested) and the South had the highest incidence of M. abscessus (20.3/1,000 persons tested). From 2010 to 2019, the annual incidence of total NTM PI increased significantly by 3.5% per year in the U.S.

Conclusions

NTM PI incidence is increasing among pwCF. Identifying high risk areas and increasing trends is important for allocating public health and clinical resources as well as evaluating interventions.
Dialysis withdrawal and symptoms of anxiety and depression: a prospective cohort study
Authors: El-Magd Essam S. , Schouten Robbert W. , Nadort Els , Shaw Prataap K. Chandie , Smets Yves F.C. , Vleming Louis-Jean , Dekker Friedo W. , Broekman Birit F.P. , Honig Adriaan , Siegert Carl E.H.
Published: July 2023

Background

An important aspect of end-of-life decisions in dialysis patients is elective withdrawal from dialysis therapy. Several studies have shown that clinical factors, such as comorbidity, play a role in dialysis withdrawal. The role of symptoms of anxiety and depression is largely unknown. The.

Methods

A prospective multi-center study has been set up to investigate anxiety and depressive symptoms longitudinally in dialysis patients. Anxiety and depressive symptoms were investigated using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) as baseline. Adverse events, including dialysis withdrawal and mortality were registered during follow-up. Multivariable cox proportional hazard models were used with anxiety and depression as the independent variable and dialysis withdrawal as the outcome variable. Models included age, sex, ethnicity and a set of clinical comorbidities.

Results

A total of 687 patients were included between 2012 and 2017, with a median follow-up of 3.2 years. A total of 48 patients (7%) withdrew from dialysis therapy, and subsequently deceased. Anxiety and depressive symptoms at baseline showed an association with dialysis withdrawal with hazard ratios of 2.31 (1.09–4.88) for anxiety and 2.56 (1.27–5.15) for depressive symptoms, independent of somatic comorbidities.

Discussion

Withdrawal from dialysis therapy is associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms. Dialysis patients with more severe depressive and anxiety symptoms were more vulnerable for dialysis withdrawal. Insight in factors that play a role in dialysis withdrawal could aid patients and clinicians making an informed decision and develop clinical guidelines.
The association of vitamin D deficiency, age and depression in US adults: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Mo Hongfei , Zhang Jipeng , Huo Chiwei , Zhang Mengying , Xiao Jiang , Peng Junge , Wang Guirong , Wang Changhong , Li Yan
Published: July 2023

Background

Depression is an important public health burden, its risk of occurrence is associated with vitamin D deficiency and may also increase with age, while serum vitamin D levels are closely related to age.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether vitamin D and age are associated with depression after adjustment for each other.

Materials and methods

We extracted data from NHANES 2013–2018, including demographic characteristics, depression level, vitamin D level, physical activity, and body measures. A total of 15,156 adults aged 20 years or older (mean age 49.81 ± 17.67 years, 7301 males and 7855 females) were included. Depression was screened by PHQ-9. Vitamin D deficiency was defined by a serum vitamin D level < 30nmol/L. We performed binary logistic regression models to analyze the association between vitamin D, age and depression, respectively.

Results

Vitamin D levels were negatively associated with depression (P < 0.001). Vitamin D had a significant effect on depression (OR = 0.776, 95%CI: 0.682–0.884, P < 0.001), the effect remained significant after adjusted for confounding variables (OR = 0.761, 95%CI: 0.663–0.874, P < 0.001). Age was positively associated with depression (P < 0.001) and had a significant effect on depression (OR = 1.079, 98%CI: 1.032–1.128, P = 0.001), the effect remained significant after adjusted for confounding variables (OR = 1.092, 95%CI: 1.040–1.146, P < 0.001). Age and vitamin D levels were positively correlated (P < 0.001), and older age had a significant effect on vitamin D level (OR = 1.526, 95%CI: 1.416–1.645, P < 0.001), the effect remained significant after adjusted for confounding variables (OR = 1.371, 95%CI: 1.263–1.487, P < 0.001). In addition, the prevalence of depression was higher in females (2312/7855, 29.43%) than in males (1571/7301, 21.52%), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency and older age are both associated with higher risk of depression, while older age is a protective factor for vitamin D deficiency.
Information needs of informal caregivers in caring and rehabilitation for dioxin victims in Vietnam
Authors: Ho Hien Thi , Bui Chi Linh , Santin Olinda , Nguyen Huong Thi , Thi Nguyen Hien Luong , Do Hung Chi , Tran Nghi Ngoc , Tran Hanh Thi Tuyet , Nguyen Anh Mai , Carter Gillian , Bui Ha Thi Thu , Van Hoang Minh
Published: July 2023

Background

Health outcomes among Agent Orange/dioxin (dioxin) victims are significant due to many individuals requiring daily assistance, informal care, and rehabilitation support. This study aimed to identify the information needs of informal caregivers of dioxin victims in Vietnam.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Quynh Phu district, Thai Binh province – an area with a large number of dioxin victims, from June 2019 to June 2020. Quantitative data were collected from 124 caregivers of victims via structured interviews. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interview guides with in-depth interviews (IDI) (n = 36) and two focus group discussions (FGD) (n = 12).

Results

The results demonstrated that all caregivers of dioxin victims were family members, predominantly older (71.8%), 61.5 years old on average, living on low incomes (87.9%), and were farmers (80.7%). Almost all participants (96.8%) reported having information needs, particularly concerning dioxin’s harms, nutrition, dioxin-related policies and rehabilitation, and psychological support for patients. Caregivers reported that they would like to receive information via health staff counselling (85.0%), television (75.0%), and community loudspeaker (65.8%). Notably, the majority of caregivers reported the need for information regarding psychological support (70.0%). These findings are consistent with qualitative data, which identify an urgent need to provide information, especially through health staff and digital resources.

Conclusion

Many families with dioxin victims lived with little support and information, highlighting their high demand for information about care and rehabilitation. Thus, the healthcare system should promote information support, policy, and psychological support for caregivers and victims. An online support system for caregivers and victims is also recommended.
Food insecurity and social inequalities in households headed by older people in Brazil: a secondary cross-sectional analysis of a national survey
Authors: Ribeiro Eloah Costa de Sant’Anna , Cherol Camilla Christine de Souza , da Costa Rosana Salles , de Castro Paulo Cesar Pereira , Ferreira Aline Alves
Published: July 2023

Background

The presence of food insecurity in households headed by older people is related to social inequalities. The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence and factors associated with moderate/severe food insecurity in households headed by older people.

Methods

A cross-sectional study based on a nationally representative sample of older adults aged ≥ 60 years was conducted using data from the 2017/2018 Family Budget Survey. In the study, moderate/severe food insecurity was the dependent variable, with food insecurity assessed with the Brazilian Household Food Insecurity Measurement Scale. Prevalence and odds ratio estimates were generated with 99% confidence intervals. Data analysis was performed using STATA software.

Findings

A total of 16,314 households headed by older people were identified. Approximately 10.1% of these households were in the moderate/severe range for food insecurity. The majority are female (11.9%)and self-declared indigenous people (25.5%), with a lack of schooling (18.3%) and a per capita income of up to half of one minimum wage (29.6%). The analysis model found that color/race, region, schooling, per capita household income, and social benefits received in the household were statistically significant factors (p value < 0.01).

Conclusion

Moderate/severe food insecurity in households headed by older people is associated with the pronounced social inequalities present in Brazil, and these findings intensify the need for additional study of the challenges faced by this age group.
Effect of stride length on the running biomechanics of healthy women of different statures
Authors: Sundaramurthy Aravind , Tong Junfei , Subramani Adhitya V. , Kote Vivek , Baggaley Michael , Edwards W. Brent , Reifman Jaques
Published: July 2023

Background

Tibial stress fracture is a debilitating musculoskeletal injury that diminishes the physical performance of individuals who engage in high-volume running, including Service members during basic combat training (BCT) and recreational athletes. While several studies have shown that reducing stride length decreases musculoskeletal loads and the potential risk of tibial injury, we do not know whether stride-length reduction affects individuals of varying stature differently.

Methods

We investigated the effects of reducing the running stride length on the biomechanics of the lower extremity of young, healthy women of different statures. Using individualized musculoskeletal and finite-element models of women of short (N = 6), medium (N = 7), and tall (N = 7) statures, we computed the joint kinematics and kinetics at the lower extremity and tibial strain for each participant as they ran on a treadmill at 3.0 m/s with their preferred stride length and with a stride length reduced by 10%. Using a probabilistic model, we estimated the stress-fracture risk for running regimens representative of U.S. Army Soldiers during BCT and recreational athletes training for a marathon.

Results

When study participants reduced their stride length by 10%, the joint kinetics, kinematics, tibial strain, and stress-fracture risk were not significantly different among the three stature groups. Compared to the preferred stride length, a 10% reduction in stride length significantly decreased peak hip (p = 0.002) and knee (p < 0.001) flexion angles during the stance phase. In addition, it significantly decreased the peak hip adduction (p = 0.013), hip internal rotation (p = 0.004), knee extension (p = 0.012), and ankle plantar flexion (p = 0.026) moments, as well as the hip, knee, and ankle joint reaction forces (p < 0.001) and tibial strain (p < 0.001). Finally, for the simulated regimens, reducing the stride length decreased the relative risk of stress fracture by as much as 96%.

Conclusions

Our results show that reducing stride length by 10% decreases musculoskeletal loads, tibial strain, and stress-fracture risk, regardless of stature. We also observed large between-subject variability, which supports the development of individualized training strategies to decrease the incidence of stress fracture.
Skeletal effects of eccentric strengthening exercise: a scoping review
Authors: Singh Harshvardhan , Moore Bethany A. , Rathore Roshita , Reed William R , Thompson William R. , Fisher Gordon , Lein Donald H. , Hunter Gary R.
Published: July 2023

Background

Conventional progressive concentric strengthening exercise (CSE) to improve bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) may not be feasible for populations with chronic musculoskeletal and/or metabolic conditions, such as osteoporosis or obesity. Muscle lengthening exercise, also known as an eccentric strengthening exercise (ESE), may have a special utility for those populations due to greater force generation versus CSE. In fact, greater mechanical loading can be induced on bone at lower resistance levels with ESE. However, effects of ESE on BMD and BMC are unclear. Thus, the purpose of this review was to interrogate the effects of ESE on BMD and BMC.

Methods

A literature review was conducted between January 1995 and April 2022 focusing on randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of ESE on BMD and/or BMC in humans. Terms covering the domains of exercise, bone, and populations were searched on PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus. The methodological quality of each interventional study was rated using Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Cohen’s d was calculated to determine the magnitude of the effects of ERE on site-specific outcome measures of BMD and/or BMC.

Results

Out of 1,182 articles initially found, a total of seven full length articles met our inclusion criteria. Of the seven studies, most of the interventions were performed in young (n = 5, PEDro = 5–7) versus middle-aged (n = 1, PEDro = 4) or older (n = 1, PEDro = 6) adults. BMD and BMC generally improved due to ESE; however the effects of ESE on BMD and BMC were non-homogenous. Effect size (d) ranged from 0.10–0.87 in young adults while it was 1.16 in older adults. Effect size (d) could not be calculated for the middle-aged adult study due to critical methodological limitations of the intervention.

Conclusions

Large variability exists for the effectiveness of ESE on BMD/BMC across the human life spectrum. The benefits of ESE on BMD holds promise but rigorous studies are lacking. Further research is needed to examine if the dose, mode, age, and sex-specificity dictate effects of ESE on BMD/BMC.