bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eastern Margin of the Neoarchean Tunguska Superterrane: Data from Boreholes in the Central Part of the Siberian Platform
Authors: Samsonov A. V. , Erofeeva K. G. , Larionova Yu. O. , Larionov A. N. , Kuznetsov N. B. , Romanyuk T. V. , Solovyova N. V. , Zhilicheva O. M. , Dubenskiy A. S. , Sheshukov V. S.
Published: November 2022

The paper presents data on granites and gneisses recovered by Kulindinskaya-1 hole drilled in the central part of the Siberian Craton. The biotite granites retain a porphyritic texture, correspond to I-type according to their compositional features, are enriched in LREE and moderately depleted in HREE, and have negative Eu, Sr, and Nb and positive Zr anomalies. The U−Pb zircon age of the granites is Neoarchean (2525 ± 10 Ma), with single cores of zircon grains dated at about 2.6 Ga, which likely suggests a crustal source of the granitic magmas. The model age TNd(DM) = 2.77 Ga of the granite shows that the crust from which the initial melts were derived had been formed shortly before the melting episode. In terms of age and all characteristics, the granites are close to those of the Yurubchen massif, which was drilled through in the western part of the Tunguska superterrane. The biotite gneiss was apparently derived from sedimentary rocks and was heavily reworked when the granites were emplaced. The enrichment of the gneiss in Cr and Ni is probably inherited from the sedimentary protolith, whereas the REE, HFSE, and LILE concentrations and distribution in the gneiss are similar to those of the granite. The concordant (D < 1%) U−Pb zircon ages (according to LA-ICP-MS data) broadly vary from 3284 to 2620 Ma, with two major peaks at 2717 and 2678 Ma. The model age of the gneiss TNd(DM) = 2.91 Ga confirms a contribution of the ancient crustal component to the sedimentary protolith of the rock. The minimum age of the detrital zircon, 2.62 Ga, determines the maximum age limit for sedimentation, and the minimum age limit is set by the age of the granite intrusions at 2.53 Ga. According to our data, the Archean gneisses and granites recovered by the Kulindinskaya-1 drillhole probably compose the eastern part of the Neoarchean Tunguska superterrane. Ereminskaya-101 drillhole, which was drilled 20 km northeast of Kulindinskaya-1, recovered gneisses with model ages TNd(DM) from 2.30 to 2.37 Ga, which belong to the adjacent Taimyr−Baikal suture zone with widespread Paleoproterozoic rocks. The contrasting crustal history of the adjacent complexes provides grounds to suggest that they were tectonically combined, which is an additional reason to consider the Taimyr−Baikal suture zone as a Paleoproterozoic collisional orogen.
Development of a cluster-like headache after a stent-assisted implantation of an endovascular WEB device
Authors: Meyer Tareq , Riabikin Alexander , Werner Cornelius Johannes
Published: November 2022

After interdisciplinary consent, a male patient in his 50s received endovascular treatment of an innocent supraophthalmic aneurysm of the internal carotid artery with a WEB (woven endo bridge) device and stenting. In the medical history, a migraine with aura was reported. A week after intervention, the patient developed an ipsilateral cluster-like headache responsive to classical interventions. Inflammation of the carotid wall near the stent was demonstrated to be associated with the headaches and was responsive to steroid treatment.

The presented case demonstrates that postinterventional headache comprises more headache entities than the often reported migraine and tension-type headache with a considerable impact on the patients’ quality of life. The case supports the vascular hypothesis of cluster headache pathophysiology, potentially contradicting current models and assumptions.
Rare interstitial lung disease in a preterm neonate with congenital lobar emphysema
Authors: Jayaram Swati , Abramovich Caroline , Roy Aparna , Kumar Gurinder
Published: November 2022

Congenital lobar emphysema (CLE)/congenital alveolar overdistension/congenital lobar overinflation or infantile lobar emphysema is a rare developmental anomaly of the lower respiratory tract which is characterised by hyperinflation of one or more of the pulmonary lobes. Histopathology may be variable, which may show abnormality in the cartilage, granulation tissue, mucosal folds, etc. We report a rare underlying histopathology in a preterm neonate with CLE. This entity referred to as pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis (PIG) is a group of heterogeneous lung disease affecting the lung parenchyma and is characterised by the presence of glycogen laden cells in the lung interstitium. This impairs the gas exchange and typically manifest as tachypnoea, retractions, hypoxia and increased respiratory support. Our case report highlights the association of CLE and PIG and a review of literature. One should always have a detailed histopathology in children presenting with CLE to rule out PIG.
OPTIKNEE 2022: consensus recommendations to optimise knee health after traumatic knee injury to prevent osteoarthritis
Authors: Whittaker Jackie L , Culvenor Adam G , Juhl Carsten Bogh , Berg Bjørnar , Bricca Alessio , Filbay Stephanie Rose , Holm Pætur , Macri Erin , Urhausen Anouk P , Ardern Clare L , Bruder Andrea M , Bullock Garrett S , Ezzat Allison M , Girdwood Michael , Haberfield Melissa , Hughes Mick , Ingelsrud Lina Holm , Khan Karim M , Le Christina Y , Losciale Justin M , Lundberg Matilde , Miciak Maxi , Øiestad Britt Elin , Patterson Brooke , Räisänen Anu M , Skou Søren T , Thorlund Jonas Bloch , Toomey Clodagh , Truong Linda K , Meer Belle L. van , West Thomas James , Young James Justin , Lohmander L Stefan , Emery Carolyn , Risberg May Arna , van Middelkoop Marienke , Roos Ewa M , Crossley Kay M
Published: November 2022

The goal of the OPTIKNEE consensus is to improve knee and overall health, to prevent osteoarthritis (OA) after a traumatic knee injury. The consensus followed a seven-step hybrid process. Expert groups conducted 7 systematic reviews to synthesise the current evidence and inform recommendations on the burden of knee injuries; risk factors for post-traumatic knee OA; rehabilitation to prevent post-traumatic knee OA; and patient-reported outcomes, muscle function and functional performance tests to monitor people at risk of post-traumatic knee OA. Draft consensus definitions, and clinical and research recommendations were generated, iteratively refined, and discussed at 6, tri-weekly, 2-hour videoconferencing meetings. After each meeting, items were finalised before the expert group (n=36) rated the level of appropriateness for each using a 9-point Likert scale, and recorded dissenting viewpoints through an anonymous online survey. Seven definitions, and 8 clinical recommendations (who to target, what to target and when, rehabilitation approach and interventions, what outcomes to monitor and how) and 6 research recommendations (research priorities, study design considerations, what outcomes to monitor and how) were voted on. All definitions and recommendations were rated appropriate (median appropriateness scores of 7–9) except for two subcomponents of one clinical recommendation, which were rated uncertain (median appropriateness score of 4.5–5.5). Varying levels of evidence supported each recommendation. Clinicians, patients, researchers and other stakeholders may use the definitions and recommendations to advocate for, guide, develop, test and implement person-centred evidence-based rehabilitation programmes following traumatic knee injury, and facilitate data synthesis to reduce the burden of knee post-traumatic knee OA.
Impact of a multidisciplinary nutritional support team on quality improvement for patients receiving home parenteral nutrition
Authors: Rothkopf Michael , Pant Mohan , Brown Rebecca , Haselhorst Jaimie , Gagliardotto Francine , Tallman Allison , Stevenson Debbie , DePalma Andrew , Saracco Michael , Rosenberg Dan , Proudan Vladimir , Shareef Kishwar , Ayub Nudrat
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is essential for patients with intestinal failure requiring long-term nutritional support. The Amerita Quality Improvement Project for HPN Patients (QIP-PN) explored the effect of a physician nutrition expert (PNE)-led multidisciplinary nutritional support team (MNST) on HPN care for patients under its service.

Objective

To determine an MNST effect on adherence to protocols, outcomes and quality of life (QOL) in HPN.

Methods

The study was divided into three phases: data review (phases 1a and 1b), observation (phase 2) and intervention (phase 3). Seven Amerita locations were selected as ‘study branches’ (population), from which all study patients and controls were drawn. The quality improvement project employed a quasi-experimental case-matched control group (control) design. Data were collected on demographics, treating physicians PNE status, HPN care variables, recommended interventions, quality-of-life assessment, adverse outcomes and hospitalisations. Paired t-test compared continuous data between phases 2 and 3. Comparisons between study and control groups used a negative binomial regression model.

Results

Thirty-four patients were reviewed in phase 1a and 197 in phase 1b. Forty study patients completed phase 2 and progressed into phase 3, of whom 30 completed ≥60 therapy days. Patients were lost to follow-up if they discontinued HPN for any reason. Improvements in weight, body mass index and QOL were seen in the study patients during intervention. Recommendations made and accepted by treating physicians differed based on PNE status. Study patients had fewer adverse outcomes and related hospitalisations than controls.

Conclusion

MNST recommendations improved clinical, biochemical parameters and patients’ self-reported overall health. MNST input reduced adverse outcomes, hospitalisation and the length of stay at the hospital. This study highlights the potential for MNST to have a significant impact on the quality and overall cost of HPN management.
Overall and cause-specific mortality rates among men and women with high exposure to indoor air pollution from the use of smoky and smokeless coal: a cohort study in Xuanwei, China
Authors: Nagaradona Teja , Bassig Bryan A , Hosgood Dean , Vermeulen Roel C H , Ning Bofu , Seow Wei Jie , Hu Wei , Portengen Lützen , Wong Jason , Shu Xiao-Ou , Zheng Wei , Appel Nathan , Gao Yu-Tang , Cai Qiu-Yin , Yang Gong , Chen Ying , Downward George , Li Jihua , Yang Kaiyun , McCullough Lauren , Silverman Debra , Huang Yunchao , Lan Qing
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Never-smoking women in Xuanwei (XW), China, have some of the highest lung cancer rates in the country. This has been attributed to the combustion of smoky coal used for indoor cooking and heating. The aim of this study was to evaluate the spectrum of cause-specific mortality in this unique population, including among those who use smokeless coal, considered ‘cleaner’ coal in XW, as this has not been well-characterised.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

XW, a rural region of China where residents routinely burn coal for indoor cooking and heating.

Participants

Age-adjusted, cause-specific mortality rates between 1976 and 2011 were calculated and compared among lifetime smoky and smokeless coal users in a cohort of 42 420 men and women from XW. Mortality rates for XW women were compared with those for a cohort of predominately never-smoking women in Shanghai.

Results

Mortality in smoky coal users was driven by cancer (41%), with lung cancer accounting for 88% of cancer deaths. In contrast, cardiovascular disease (CVD) accounted for 32% of deaths among smokeless coal users, with 7% of deaths from cancer. Total cancer mortality was four times higher among smoky coal users relative to smokeless coal users, particularly for lung cancer (standardised rate ratio (SRR)=17.6). Smokeless coal users had higher mortality rates of CVD (SRR=2.9) and pneumonia (SRR=2.5) compared with smoky coal users. These patterns were similar in men and women, even though XW women rarely smoked cigarettes. Women in XW, regardless of coal type used, had over a threefold higher rate of overall mortality, and most cause-specific outcomes were elevated compared with women in Shanghai.

Conclusions

Cause-specific mortality burden differs in XW based on the lifetime use of different coal types. These observations provide evidence that eliminating all coal use for indoor cooking and heating is an important next step in improving public health particularly in developing countries.
Sleep disturbance in caregivers of individuals with Parkinsonism: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sprajcer Madeline , Owen Patrick J , Crowther Meagan E , Harper Kirsty , Gupta Charlotte Cecelia , Ferguson Sally A , Gibson Rosemary H , Vincent Grace E
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The global prevalence of Parkinsonism continues to rise given ageing populations. Individuals with Parkinsonism who have moderate or severe symptoms typically require a high level of care, including assistance with activities of daily living. This care is often provided across the 24-hour period by a family member or friend. It is likely that providing care significantly impacts the sleep duration and quality of the caregiver given overnight caring responsibilities, in addition to worry and stress associated with the caregiving role. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate whether providing care to an individual with Parkinsonism was associated with disturbed caregiver sleep, and to identify associated factors that may contribute to disturbed sleep in this population.

Setting

Five databases were electronically searched on 30 June 2021 including CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, CENTRAL and EMBASE.

Participants

Eligibility criteria included a population of caregivers whose care recipient has a form of Parkinsonism.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

To be included in this systematic review, outcome measures of caregiver sleep (eg, sleep duration, sleep quality) were required.

Results

Eighteen studies (n=1998) were included. Findings indicated that caregivers of individuals with Parkinsonism typically experience poor sleep quality (mean (95% CI): 5.6 (4.8 to 6.4) points on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), increased sleep latency and poor sleep efficiency.

Conclusions

The degree of poor sleep quality was clinically significant. However, further investigation of sleep outcomes is required using sleep measurement tools tailored for this population (eg, measures that capture overnight sleep disruption by care recipient/s). Additionally, there is a need for appropriate individual and societal-level interventions to improve caregiver sleep.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021274529.
Does reverse mentoring work in the NHS: a feasibility study of clinicians in practice
Authors: Raju Suneil A , Ching Hey-Long , Jalal Mustafa , Lau Michelle S , Rej Anupam , Tai F W David , Tun Gloria , Hopper Andrew D , McAlindon Mark E , Sidhu Reena , Thoufeeq Mo , Sanders David S
Published: November 2022

Objective

To assess the risks and benefits of reverse mentoring of consultants by junior doctors.

Design

A feasibility study divided into two phases: first a semistructured interview where performance of participating consultants was assessed by junior doctors and then a second phase allowing for feedback to be given on a one-to-one basis. Data collected through questionnaires with free text questions and Likert scores.

Setting

Tertiary teaching hospital in the UK.

Participants

Six junior doctors (66.6% male, age range 31–40 years) and five consultants (80% male, age range 35–65 years and consultants for 5–20 years).

Intervention

Reverse mentoring session.

Main outcome measure

The concerns and/or benefits of the process of reverse mentoring. Confidence was assessed in 7 domains: clinical practice, approach to juniors, approachability, use of technology, time management, strengths and areas for improvement using Likert scales giving a total out of 35.

Results

The most common concerns cited were overcoming the hierarchical difference and a selection bias in both mentors and mentees. However, no participant experienced this hierarchical difference through the reverse mentoring process and no relationships were negatively affected. Mentors became more confident in feeding back to seniors (23 vs 29 out of 35, p=0.04) most evident in clinical practice and areas to improve (3 vs 4 out of 5, p=0.041 and 3 vs 5 out of 5, p=0.041, respectively).

Conclusion

We present the first study of reverse mentoring in an NHS clinical setting. Initial concerns with regard to damaged relationships and hierarchical gradients were not experienced and all participants perceived that they benefited from the process. Reverse mentoring can play a role in engaging and training future leaders at junior stages and provide a means for consultants to receive valuable feedback from junior colleagues.
Study protocol for the Multiple Symptoms Study 3: a pragmatic, randomised controlled trial of a clinic for patients with persistent (medically unexplained) physical symptoms
Authors: Mooney Cara , White David Alexander , Dawson Jeremy , Deary Vincent , Fryer Kate , Greco Monica , Horspool Michelle , Neilson Aileen , Rowlands Gillian , Sanders Tom , Thomas Ruth E , Thomas Steve , Waheed Waquas , Burton Christopher D
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Persistent physical symptoms (which cannot be adequately attributed to physical disease) affect around 1 million people (2% of adults) in the UK. They affect patients’ quality of life and account for at least one third of referrals from General Practitioners (GPs) to specialists. These referrals give patients little benefit but have a real cost to health services time and diagnostic resources. The symptoms clinic has been designed to help people make sense of persistent physical symptoms (especially if medical tests have been negative) and to reduce the impact of symptoms on daily life.

Methods and analysis

This pragmatic, multicentre, randomised controlled trial will assess the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the symptoms clinic intervention plus usual care compared with usual care alone. Patients were identified through GP searches and mail-outs and recruited by the central research team. 354 participants were recruited and individually randomised (1:1). The primary outcome is the self-reported Physical Health Questionnaire-15 at 52 weeks postrandomisation. Secondary outcome measures include the EuroQol 5 dimension 5 level and healthcare resource use. Outcome measures will also be collected at 13 and 26 weeks postrandomisation. A process evaluation will be conducted including consultation content analysis and interviews with participants and key stakeholders.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained via Greater Manchester Central Research Ethics Committee (Reference 18/NW/0422). The results of the trial will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals, presented at relevant conferences and disseminated to trial participants and patient interest groups.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN57050216.
Effects of Baduanjin exercise on motor function, balance and gait in Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lai Jinghui , Cai Yangfan , Yang Liyan , Xia Min , Cheng Xi , Chen Ying
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aims to systematically evaluate the effects of Baduanjin on motor function, balance and gait in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Study selection

All eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in the English and Chinese language were included.

Data sources

Ten electronic databases were systematically searched, from inception to 17 March 2022: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, EBSCOhost, OVID, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data and China Science Journal Database (VIP).

Review methods

Methodological quality assessment and meta-analysis were performed for the included studies using the Cochrane Review Manager V.5.4 software.

Results

Ten RCTs with 804 participants were included. The results revealed the following: (1) Baduanjin significantly improved the motor function of patients with PD, based on the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part III (mean difference, MD −5.37, 95% CI −8.96 to −1.78, p=0.003) and Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremity (MD 5.39, 95% CI 2.71 to 8.07, p<0.0001); (2) Baduanjin significantly improved the ability of balance of patients with PD, based on the Berg Balance Scale (MD 4.40, 95% CI 3.08 to 5.73, p<0.00001); (3) Baduanjin significantly improved the gait of patients with PD, based on the 6 min walk distance (MD 21.62, 95% CI 11.14 to 32.10, p<0.0001). After the further subgroup and sensitivity analyses, the heterogeneity was identified to be potentially due to the different degrees of disease severity in patients with PD and the difference in Baduanjin intervention durations.

Conclusions

The analysis of this systematic evaluation indicates that Baduanjin might have a positive effect in improving the motor function, balance and gait of patients with PD. However, due to the quantity and clinical heterogeneity limitations of the included studies, this conclusion still warrants more high-quality and multicentre RCTs for further verification.
Study design and baseline characteristics for the reflect gene therapy trial ofm.11778g>A/ND4-LHON
Authors: Subramanian Prem S , Newman Nancy J , Moster Mark , Wang An-Guor , Yu-Wai-Man Patrick , Donahue Sean , Leroy Bart P , Carelli Valerio , Biousse Valerie , Vignal-Clermont Catherine , Sergott Robert C , Sadun Alfredo A , Rebolleda Gema , Chwalisz Bart K , Banik Rudrani , Bazin Fabienne , Cox Eric , Roux Michel , Taiel Magali , Sahel Jose-Alain
Published: November 2022

Objective

REFLECT is the first randomised, double-masked, placebo-controlled multicentre phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated the efficacy and safety of bilateral intravitreal (IVT) injection of lenadogene nolparvovec in subjects with Leber hereditary optic neuropathy carrying the m.11778G>A mutation.

Methods and analysis

A total of 98 subjects were enrolled with vision loss of ≤12 months. The subjects were randomised to one of two treatment arms with all subjects receiving an intravitreal (IVT) injection of lenadogene nolparvovec in their first affected eye and the second-affected eye randomised to receive IVT of either lenadogene nolparvovec or placebo.

Results

The majority of subjects were male with a mean duration of vision loss of 8.3 months. All but one subject experienced bilateral loss of vision at the time of injection. The mean best-corrected visual acuity of first-affected eyes was worse compared with second/not-yet-affected eyes. Analysis of retinal anatomical parameters showed increased thinning in the first-affected eyes when compared with the second/not-yet-affected eyes with both treatment arms showing significant changes compared with unaffected individuals.

Conclusion

The REFLECT trial is the third and the largest phase 3 clinical study evaluating lenadogene nolparvovec in m.11778G>A Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) subjects. The observed demographics in REFLECT are consistent with previous reports in LHON subjects in the acute and dynamic phases of LHON disease. Combined with the visual function and anatomical parameters obtained in the previous RESCUE and REVERSE trials, REFLECT has provided a uniformly collected data set that should help direct future LHON clinical trials.
User interest in a new non-hormonal long-acting reversible contraceptive: what impact does mechanism of action have on past and future contraceptive decision-making?
Authors: Shankie-williams Kirsten Norma , Ratcliffe Sarah E , Dowland Samson N , Black Kirsten
Published: November 2022

Background

We are in the process of developing a new non-hormonal long-acting reversible method of contraception (LARC) in recognition of the fact that a significant minority of users are unhappy with their current method. Our method has a novel (post-fertilisation) mechanism of action (MOA), but little is known about the value users place on this.

Methods

Using in-depth interviews, we explored 30 Australian end-users’ experiences of contraception, recruited via social media. A thematic approach was taken to examine the influence the MOA has on choice and factors affecting willingness to try current methods and a novel non-hormonal LARC with a post-fertilisation effect.

Results

We identified two themes that were the most salient across all interviews: that contraceptive decision-making involves a trade-off of priorities, influenced by contraceptive properties (including MOA) and the context in which contraception is used; and views on novel methods of contraception were influenced by willingness to trial new products and interest in non-hormonal options. Side effects, efficacy, and the financial burden of contraceptives were all considered more important than MOA during decision-making. Participants were willing to try a new method if endorsed by trusted sources, including friends and medical practitioners, and were enthusiastic to try a novel LARC with no hormones.

Conclusion

This study found that the MOA had minimal impact on participants’ choice of contraception. Rather, avoidance of hormones and side effects influenced willingness to try a novel method over any unacceptable aspects of a post-fertilisation MOA.
Neighbourhood risk factors of recurrent tuberculosis in Cape Town: a cohort study using geocoded notification data
Authors: Molemans Marjan , van Leth Frank , McKelly David Henry , Wood Robin , Hermans Sabine
Published: November 2022

Background

Individuals with a history of tuberculosis (TB) disease are at higher risk of developing a subsequent episode than those without. Considering the role of social and environmental factors in tuberculosis, we assessed neighbourhood-level risk factors associated with recurrent tuberculosis in Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods

This cohort consisted of patients who completed treatment for their first drug-sensitive TB episode between 2003 and 2015. Addresses were geocoded at neighbourhood level. Data on neighbourhood-level factors were obtained from the Census 2011 (household size, population density) and the City of Cape Town (Socio-Economic Index). Neighbourhood-level TB burden was calculated annually by dividing the number of notified TB episodes by the population in that neighbourhood. Multilevel survival analysis was performed with the outcome recurrent TB, defined as a second episode of TB, and controlling for individual-level risk factors (age, gender and time since first episode in years). Follow-up ended at the second episode, or on 31 December 2015, whichever came first.

Results

The study included 173 421 patients from 700 neighbourhoods. Higher Socio-Economic Index was associated with a lower risk of recurrence compared with average Socio-Economic Index. An increased risk was found for higher household size and TB burden, with an increase of 20% for every additional person in mean household size and 10% for every additional TB episode/100 inhabitants. No association was found with population density.

Conclusion

Recurrent TB was associated with increased household size and TB burden at neighbourhood level. These findings could be used to target TB screening activities.
Motor cortex functional connectivity is associated with underlying neurochemistry in ALS
Authors: Dey Avyarthana , Luk Collin C , Ishaque Abdullah , Ta Daniel , Srivastava Ojas , Krebs Dennell , Seres Peter , Hanstock Chris , Beaulieu Christian , Korngut Lawrence , Frayne Richard , Zinman Lorne , Graham Simon , Genge Angela , Briemberg Hannah , Kalra Sanjay
Published: November 2022

Objective

To identify structural and neurochemical properties that underlie functional connectivity impairments of the primary motor cortex (PMC) and how these relate to clinical findings in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methods

52 patients with ALS and 52 healthy controls, matched for age and sex, were enrolled from 5 centres across Canada for the Canadian ALS Neuroimaging Consortium study. Resting-state functional MRI, diffusion tensor imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy data were acquired. Functional connectivity maps, diffusion metrics and neurometabolite ratios were obtained from the analyses of the acquired multimodal data. A clinical assessment of foot tapping (frequency) was performed to examine upper motor neuron function in all participants.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, the primary motor cortex in ALS showed reduced functional connectivity with sensory (T=5.21), frontal (T=3.70), temporal (T=3.80), putaminal (T=4.03) and adjacent motor (T=4.60) regions. In the primary motor cortex, N-acetyl aspartate (NAA, a neuronal marker) ratios and diffusion metrics (mean, axial and radial diffusivity, fractional anisotropy (FA)) were altered. Within the ALS cohort, foot tapping frequency correlated with NAA (r=0.347) and white matter FA (r=0.537). NAA levels showed associations with disturbed functional connectivity of the motor cortex.

Conclusion

In vivoneurochemistry may represent an effective imaging marker of impaired motor cortex functional connectivity in ALS.
Investigating physician leadership competencies in rural and remote areas of the province of Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Maulina Fury , Hasanbasri Mubasysyir , Scheele Fedde , Busari Jamiu O
Published: November 2022

Backgrounds

Globally, the most rural healthcare systems are lagging behind those of urban healthcare systems. Especially in rural and remote areas, the essential resources to provide principal health services are inadequate. It is purported that physicians have an important role in healthcare systems. Unfortunately, there is a paucity of studies on physician leadership development in Asia, especially on how to enhance physician leadership competencies in rural and remote low-resource settings. This study aimed to investigate doctors’ perceptions of existing and needed physician leadership competencies based on their experiences in primary care settings in low-resource rural and remote areas are in Indonesia.

Methods

We performed a qualitative study with a phenomenological approach. Eighteen primary care doctors, who worked in rural and remote areas of Aceh, Indonesia, purposively selected, were interviewed. Prior to the interview, participants were asked to select the top-five skills they deemed most essential for their work based on the five domains of the ‘Lead Self’, ‘Engage Others’, ‘Achieve Results’, ‘Develop Coalitions’ and ‘Systems Transformation’ (LEADS) framework. We then performed a thematic analysis of the interview transcripts.

Results

We identified the following qualities a good physician leader in low-resource rural and remote settings should possess: (1) cultural sensitivity skills; (2) a strong character that includes courage and determination; and (3) creativity and flexibility skills.

Conclusions

Local cultural and infrastructural factors create a need for several different competencies within the LEADS framework. A profound amount of cultural sensitivity was considered the most important in addition to the ability to be resilient, versatile and ready for creative problem-solving.
Does time to surgery for traumatic hip fracture impact the efficacy of fascia iliaca blocks? A brief report
Authors: Akinola Kerrick , Salottolo Kristin , Meinig Richard , Fine Landon , Madayag Robert M , Ekengren Francie , Tanner Allen , Bar-Or David
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Outcomes after traumatic hip fracture have shown to be significantly improved with timely surgical management. This study determined whether there were differences in efficacy of fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) on pain outcomes in patients with hip fracture, once stratified by time to surgery.

Methods

Trauma patients (55–90 years) admitted to five Level I/II trauma centers within 12 hours of hip fracture were included. Patients with coagulopathy, significant multi-trauma (injury severity score >16), bilateral hip fractures, and postoperative FICBs were excluded. The primary exposure was analgesia modality: adjunctive FICB or systemic analgesics (no FICB). Study endpoints were incidence of delirium through 48 hours postoperatively (%), preoperative and postoperative oral morphine equivalents (OMEs), and preoperative and postoperative pain (0–10 scale). Adjusted regression models were used to examine the effect of FICB on outcomes; all models were stratified by time from arrival to surgery, ≤24 hours (earlier surgery; n=413) and >24 hours (later surgery; n=143).

Results

FICB use was similar with earlier and later surgery (70.2% vs 76.2%), and there were no demographic differences by utilization of FICB, by time to surgery. In the earlier surgery group, preoperative pain was lower for patients with FICB versus no FICB (3.6 vs 4.5, p<0.001), with no difference by FICB for delirium (OR 1.00, p>0.99) or OMEs (p=0.75 preoperative, p=0.91 postoperative). In the later surgery group, there was a nearly twofold reduction in preoperative OMEs with FICB than no FICB (25.5 mg vs 45.2 mg, p=0.04), with no differences for delirium (OR 4.21, p=0.18), pain scores (p=0.25 preoperative, p=0.27 postoperative), and postoperative OMEs (p=0.34).

Conclusions

Compared with systemic analgesia, FICB resulted in improved pain scores at the preoperative assessment among patients with earlier surgery, whereas FICB reduced opioid consumption over the preoperative period only when surgery was later than 24 hours from arrival.

Level of evidence

II, prospective, therapeutic.
Highly sensitive and selective detection of selenate in water samples using an enzymatic gold nanodendrite biosensor
Authors: Motlagh Mozhgan Khorasani , Noroozifar Meissam , Kraatz Heinz-Bernhard
Published: November 2022

Gold (Au) and glassy carbon electrodes have been decorated with gold nanodendrites (NDs) using galvanic replacement reactions. Modification of the ND surfaces by lipoic acid N-hydroxysuccinimide ester allows to immobilise selenate reductase to the electrode surface, rendering it selective for the catalytic reduction of selenate ([Formula: see text], Se(VI)) to selenite ([Formula: see text], Se(IV)). Electrode modifications have been characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry (CV). For selenate detection, CV and differential pulse voltammetry measurements have been carried out in 2-[4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazin-1-yl]ethanesulfonic acid buffer with pH 6.0. Under optimum conditions, the linear range for Au electrodes decorated with AuNDs was 0.3–203 µg/L Se with a limit of detection of 0.01 µg/L Se, which is a 274-fold improvement over using non-nanostructured surfaces for selenate detection. Other anions such as [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] did not interfere with the detection of selenate. The electrochemical sensor was used for the detection of selenate in three different real samples with recovery between 98.5% and 102.0%.
Assessing interstate softwood roundwood trade in the southern United States: a gravity trade model approach
Authors: Lamica Austin , Parajuli Rajan
Published: November 2022

Intraregional trade of forest products is a critical component of regional and subregional timber markets in terms of supply chain planning and locating forest product manufacturing facilities. Based on a gravity trade model, we evaluated the various factors driving the interstate flows of softwood sawlog and roundwood pulpwood in the 13 southern US states: AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, and VA. Biennial state-level panel data from 2011 to 2019 in 13 southern states were employed to estimate empirical sawlog and pulpwood trade models. The results suggest that state gross domestic product (GDP) of importing states, exporter and importer production, importer consumption, the distance between the trading partners, and the electronic logging device mandate are influential factors of softwood sawlog trade between the states. Similarly, state GDP, exporter pulpwood production, importer consumption, the distance between the trading partners, delivered timber prices, and pellet mill capacity in each state are found to be significant determinants of softwood pulpwood trade between the partners across the state borderlines. The findings provide forest managers and policy makers with additional insights on the growing bilateral timber trade dynamics in regional and subregional markets in the southern United States.
Bacterial secondary metabolites: possible mechanism for weed suppression in wheat
Authors: Dar Abubakar , Were Evans , Hilger Thomas , Zahir Zahir Ahmad , Ahmad Maqshoof , Hussain Azhar , Rasche Frank
Published: November 2022

Chemical weed control is an effective method, but has proved hazardous for humans, environment, and soil biodiversity. Use of allelopathic bacteria may be more efficient and sustainable weed control measure. The bacterial inoculants have never been studied in context of their interaction with weed root exudates and precursor-dependent production of the natural phytotoxins (cyanide, cytolytic enzymes and auxin) by these strains to understand their weed suppression and wheat growth promotion abilities. Therefore, root exudates of Avena fatua, Phalaris minor, Rumex dentatus, and wheat were quantified and their role in microbial root colonization and secondary metabolite production, i.e., cyanide, cytolytic enzymes, phenolics, and elevated auxin concentration, was studied. The results depicted l-tryptophan and glycine as major contributors of elevated cyanide and elevated levels in weed rhizosphere by the studied Pseudomonas strains, through their higher root colonization ability in weeds as compared with wheat. Furthermore, the higher root colonization also enhanced p-coumaric acid (photosynthesis inhibitor by impairing cytochrome c oxidase activity in plants) and cytolytic enzyme (root cell wall degradation) concentration in weed rhizosphere. In conclusion, the differential root colonization of wheat and weeds by these strains is responsible for enhancing weed suppression (enhancing phytotoxic effect) and wheat growth promotion (lowering phytotoxic effect).
Thin shell dynamics in Lovelock gravity
Authors: Guilleminot Pablo , Merino Nelson , Olea Rodrigo
Published: November 2022

We study matching conditions for a spherically symmetric thin shell in Lovelock gravity which can be read off from the variation of the corresponding first-order action. In point of fact, the addition of Myers’ boundary terms to the gravitational action eliminates the dependence on the acceleration in this functional and such that the canonical momentum appears in the surface term in the variation of the total action. This procedure leads to junction conditions given by the discontinuity of the canonical momentum defined for an evolution normal to the boundary.In particular, we correct existing results in the literature for the thin shell collapse in generic Lovelock theories, which were mistakenly drawn from an inaccurate analysis of the total derivative terms in the system.
Bottom quark mass with calibrated uncertainty
Authors: Erler Jens , Spiesberger Hubert , Masjuan Pere
Published: November 2022

We determine the bottom quark mass $${\hat{m}}_b$$

m
^

b

from QCD sum rules of moments of the vector current correlator calculated in perturbative QCD to $${{\mathcal {O}}} ({\hat{\alpha }}_s^3)$$

O
(

α
^

s
3

)

. Our approach is based on the mutual consistency across a set of moments where experimental data are required for the resonance contributions only. Additional experimental information from the continuum region can then be used for stability tests and to assess the theoretical uncertainty. We find $${\hat{m}}_b({\hat{m}}_b) = (4180.2 \pm 7.9)$$

m
^

b

(

m
^

b

)

=

(
4180.2
±
7.9
)

 MeV for $${\hat{\alpha }}_s(M_Z) = 0.1182$$

α
^

s

(

M
Z

)

=
0.1182

.
The two-channel exotic charmonium-like resonances in the mass region (3900–4700) MeV
Authors: Badalian A. M. , Simonov Yu. A.
Published: November 2022

Numerous resonances in the$$c{{\bar{c}}}$$cc¯and 4qsystems, containing$$c{{\bar{c}}}$$cc¯plus$$s{{\bar{s}}}$$ss¯quarks (or light$$q{{\bar{q}}}$$qq¯) were observed during last decades and recently the LHCb has found a remarkable narrow peak$$T_{cc}(3875)$$Tcc(3875)in the$$D D^*$$DD∗system. Besides there are several highly excited charmonium-like resonances, which can be treated as the shifted standard charmonium states. We analyze all these groups of the resonances in the mass region (3900–4700) MeV, using relativistic strong coupling theory with possible channel coupling phenomena. For the shifted charmonium states conventional charmonium spectrum is presented, being calculated with the relativistic string Hamiltonian, which does not contain fitting parameters, while for high excitations the universal flattened confining potential is used. It is shown thatX(4274), X(4500), X(4700) can be identified as$$3\,^3P_1, 4\,^3P_0, 5\,^3P_0$$33P1,43P0,53P0states. The group of exotic states are considered using the Extended Recoupling Model, where two mesons$$m_1,m_2$$m1,m2transfer into another pair of mesons$$m_3, m_4$$m3,m4and back (infinite number of times), creating the four-quark resonance. Within this approach the resonances –$$T_{cc}(3875), Z_c(3900), X(3915), Z_{cs}(3985), X(4014)$$Tcc(3875),Zc(3900),X(3915),Zcs(3985),X(4014), andX(4140) – can be explained as the exotic four-quark states in theS-wave decay channels.
Collider searches for heavy neutral leptons: beyond simplified scenarios
Authors: Abada Asmaa , Escribano Pablo , Marcano Xabier , Piazza Gioacchino
Published: November 2022

With very few exceptions, the large amount of available experimental bounds on heavy neutral leptons – HNL – have been derived relying on the assumption of the existence of a single (usually Majorana) sterile fermion state that mixes with only one lepton flavour. However, most of the extensions of the Standard Model involving sterile fermions predict the existence of several HNLs, with complex mixing patterns to all flavours. Consequently, most of the experimental bounds for HNLs need to be recast before being applied to a generic scenario. In this work, we focus on LHC searches of heavy neutral leptons and discuss how to reinterpret the available bounds when it comes to consider mixings to all active flavours, not only in the case with a single HNL, but also in the case when more heavy neutral leptons are involved. In the latter case, we also consider the possibility of interference effects and show how the bounds on the parameter space should be recast.
First-principles study on solid nitrogen under pressure
Authors: Wang Meiyan , Li Xiaojuan , Cen Lixiang , Cheng Xinlu , Zhang Hong
Published: November 2022

The polymeric solid formed by nitrogen under ultrahigh pressure is a very typical, ideal and vital high-energy-density material. This paper presents the properties of several classic solid nitrogen phases in terms of physical structures, pressure–volume compression curves, electronic band gaps, densities of states (DOS) and Raman spectra under different ultrahigh pressures. Calculations reveal that the solids of cubic gauche (cg) and its similar phase, the pN phase, are metastable in the range of 0–300 GPa on account of the continuity of the Raman spectra versus pressure. The two easily-confused phases (cg and pN) can be identified by comparing the distinct peaks of Raman modes under pressure. Density functional theory calculation under pressure has gone some way toward enhancing our understanding of high-energy-density material via distinguishing similar phases.
Investigation of quantum effects on the electron nanobunching gain for attosecond pulse generation
Authors: Azadboni F. Khodadadi
Published: November 2022

In this paper, the influence of role of quantum effects such as spin and tunneling on attosecond pulse generation in turbulent dense plasma is investigated. Calculations show that increasing the density gradient by a factor of 10, in the case of short-wavelengths, leads to about 90%, and in the case of long-wavelengths, leads to a 66% decrease in the nanobunching gain. Increasing the quantum parameter by a factor of 10 in the short-wavelength range will result in about 80% and in the long-wavelength range will lead to a 25% reduction in the nanobunching gain saturation time generated by the Weibel instability. Increasing the quantum parameter will increase the saturation value of the density perturbation.
Does there exist rich-club phenomenon within two steps in complex networks?
Authors: Dong Yu , Qi Xingqin
Published: November 2022

Rich club is a special phenomenon in complex networks. It refers to the nodes with high degrees (i.e., rich nodes) that tend to connect with each other to form a “rich club”. This phenomenon exists in many real networks, especially in social networks. However, there are also some networks not having this phenomenon, for example, in many biological networks. Thus, a natural question comes up: do these rich nodes contact with each other through an “agent”? Two rich nodes do not connect directly, but they can establish a connection by an “agent”, i.e., they can connect with each other within two steps. If the rich nodes tend to connect with each other within two steps, we say that they form a “2-step rich club”. The traditional rich club is then called “1-step rich club”. In this paper, we aim to design one method to detect the “2-step rich club” phenomenon in real networks and check whether this new “2-step rich club” phenomenon commonly exists in real networks. We find that most networks with “1-step rich club” will also have “2-step rich club”. However, there also exist few networks having “2-step rich club” structure while not having “1-step rich club” structure. In particular, either 1-step rich-club phenomenon or 2-step rich-club phenomenon exists in most social networks.
Marangoni forced convective thermally developed two-phase dusty flow of fluid with heat source/ sink phenomenon
Authors: Waqas M. , Nasir M. , Khan M. Ijaz , Boujelbene Mohamed , Alshammari Serhan , Chouikhi Najib , Rajeh Tawfik
Published: November 2022

The consideration of thermo-capillary or Marangoni convection developed through surface tension continuously remains a focus of immense importance for engineers and scientists. This is due to their ample utilizations that is, thin films spreading, welding, nuclear reactors, materials science, semiconductor processing, crystal growth melts, etc. Having such usefulness of Marangoni convection in view, our objective here is to formulate the non-Newtonian rheological Williamson liquid capturing mixed convection and transpiration aspects. Modeling is done considering radiative magnetohydrodynamic flow. Interface temperature of both dust particles and fluid is selected as a nonlinear (quadratic) function of interface arc-length. Resulting systems are rendered to ordinary problems via opposite variables. Computational analysis is performed considering finite difference scheme. Features of embedded factors against nondimensional quantities are elaborated graphically.