bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural control of the circulation during exercise in heart failure with reduced and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Bunsawat Kanokwan , Skow Rachel J. , Kaur Jasdeep , Wray D. Walter
Published: September 2023

Patients with heart failure with reduced (HFrEF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) exhibit severe exercise intolerance that may be due, in part, to inappropriate cardiovascular and hemodynamic adjustments to exercise. Several neural mechanisms and locally released vasoactive substances work in concert through complex interactions to ensure proper adjustments to meet the metabolic demands of the contracting skeletal muscle. Specifically, accumulating evidence suggests that disease-related alterations in neural mechanisms (e.g., central command, exercise pressor reflex, arterial baroreflex, and cardiopulmonary baroreflex) contribute to heightened sympathetic activation and impaired ability to attenuate sympathetic vasoconstrictor responsiveness that may contribute to reduced skeletal muscle blood flow and severe exercise intolerance in patients with HFrEF. In contrast, little is known regarding these important aspects of physiology in patients with HFpEF, though emerging data reveal heightened sympathetic activation and attenuated skeletal muscle blood flow during exercise in this patient population that may be attributable to dysregulated neural control of the circulation. The overall goal of this review is to provide a brief overview of the current understanding of disease-related alterations in the integrative neural cardiovascular responses to exercise in both HFrEF and HFpEF phenotypes, with a focus on sympathetic nervous system regulation during exercise.
Behavior Management Training for Parents of Children with Preschool ADHD Based on Parent-Child Interactions: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled, Follow-Up Study
Authors: Feng Min , Xu Juncai , Zhai Mengyao , Wu Qiaorong , Chu Kangkang , Xie Liping , Luo Rong , Li Huiping , Xu Qiong , Xu Xiu , Ke Xiaoyan
Published: September 2023

Objective. There is a need to develop optimized, evidence-based parent training programs tailored for preschoolers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The objective of this study was to explore a behavioral management training program aimed at the parents of preschool children with ADHD, which directly analyzes parent-child interaction from the perspective of system theory, and the intervention effect on ADHD in preschool children. Methods. A multicenter randomized controlled study was conducted using system-based group therapy with 62 parents of preschool children with ADHD aged four to six years. ADHD symptoms, behavioral and emotional problems, and social functioning were compared with 61 control children whose parents did not receive training by applying the ADHD Rating Scale (ADHD-RS), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and Questionnaire-Children with Difficulties (QCD) at the time of subject entry and at two and six months of entry, respectively. Results. The results of the ADHD-RS assessment showed that children in the intervention group had significantly lower factor scores for attention deficit, hyperactivity, and impulsivity than the children in the control group after parental training and at follow-up (

P
<
0.05

). Total scores on the SDQ scale, as well as character problems, hyperactivity, and peer interaction scores, significantly decreased with statistically significant differences (all

P
<
0.05

), and emotional symptoms and prosocial behavior did not notable decline (

P
>
0.05

). Compared with the control group, the total scores of the QCD scale and the scores of each factor in the intervention group remained significantly higher at the follow-up (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. After continuous intervention for eight weeks, parents were able to help the children with preschool ADHD to improve their ADHD symptoms and emotional behavioral and social functioning significantly, and the efficacy was maintained at the four-month follow-up; the systemic-based parent training in behavior management (PTBM) is applicable to the treatment of preschool ADHD and is worth promoting.
Imidacloprid Induces Neurotoxicity in Albino Male Rats by Inhibiting Acetylcholinesterase Activity, Altering Antioxidant Status, and Primary DNA Damage
Authors: Abdelhafez Hossam El Din H. , Hammam Fatma M. , EL-Dahshan Asmaa A. , AboDalam Hussien , Guo Jiangfeng
Published: September 2023

Imidacloprid (IMI) is a neonicotinoid insecticide used worldwide, either alone or in combination with other pesticides. The goal of this study was to assess the effects of IMI on the central nervous system of rats and its mechanism of oxidative stress-induced DNA damage by oxidant/antioxidant parameters. Fifteen male rats, divided into three groups, were used: the first group received 5 ml/kg body weight corn oil as a control, the second received a high oral dose of IMI (45 mg/kg body weight), while the third received a low dose (22 mg/kg body weight). After 28 days, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, oxidative stress markers, histopathological alterations, and DNA damage were examined in the brains of these rats. The AChE activities decreased significantly after IMI exposure, reaching 2.45 and 2.75 nmol/min/mg protein in high dose and low dose, respectively, compared to the control group (3.75 nmol/g tissues), while the concentration of malondialdehyde MDA increased significantly (29.28 and 23.92 nmol/g tissues) vs. the control group (19.28 nmol/g tissues). The antioxidant status parameters such as reduced glutathione (GSH) content was 13.77 and 17.63 nmol/g, catalase (CAT) activity was 22.56 and 26.65 µmol/min/g, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was 6.66 and 7.23 µmol/min/g in both doses against the control group (21.37 nmol/g, 30.67 µmol/min/g, 11.76 µmol/min/g), respectively, and histopathological changes in the brain tissues were observed. More in vivo research using epigenetic methods is needed to determine the ability of IMI and its metabolites to cause neurotoxicity and DNA lesions in mammalian brains.
Fuzzy Topological Characterization of
q

C

n

Graph via Fuzzy Topological Indices
Authors: Mufti Zeeshan Saleem , Anjum Rukhshanda , Tawfiq Ferdous M. O. , Tabraiz Ali , Xin Qin , Akter Dilruba
Published: September 2023

Fuzzy topological indices are one of the accomplished mathematical approaches for numerous technology, engineering, and real-world problems such as telecommunications, social networking, traffic light controls, marine, neural networks, Internet routing, and wireless sensor network (Muneera et al. (2021)). This manuscript comprises the study of a particular class of graphs known as

q

C

n

snake graphs. Some innovative results regarding fuzzy topological indices have been established. The major goal of the work is to introduce the notions of First Fuzzy Zagrab Index, Second Fuzzy Zagrab Index, Randic Fuzzy Zagrab Index, and Harmonic Fuzzy Zagrab Index of the

q

C

n

snake graph.
Modeling of Angiogenesis in Tumor Blood Vessels via Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Zergani Sara , Viswanathan K. K. , Sankar D. S. , Sambath P.
Published: September 2023

This mathematical model studies the dynamics of tumor growth, one of the most complex dynamics problems that relates several interrelated processes over multiple ranges of spatial and temporal scales. In order to construct a tumor growth model, an angiogenesis model is used with focus on controlling the tumor volume, preventing new establishment, dissemination, and growth. The lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is effectively applied to Navier-Stokes’ equation for obtaining the numerical simulation of blood flow through vasculature. It is observed that the flow features are extremely sensitive to stenosis severity, even at small strains and stresses, and that a severe effect on flow patterns and wall shear stresses is noticed in the tumor blood vessels. It is noted that based on the nonlinear deformation of the blood vessel’s wall, the flow rate conditions became unstable or distorted and affect the complex blood vessel’s geometry and it changes the blood flow pattern. When the blood flows inside the stenotic artery, depending on the presence of moderate or severe stenosis, it can lead to insufficient blood supply to the tissues in the downstream. Consequently, the highly disturbed flow occurs in the downstream of the stenosed artery, or even plaque ruptures happen when the flow pattern becomes very irregular and complex as it transits to turbulent which cannot be described without assumptions on the geometry. The results predicted by LBM-based code surpassed the expectations, and thus, the numerical results are found to be in great accord with the relevant established results of others.
Qualitative Analysis of Attitudes, Knowledge, and Interest in Research of People with Parkinson’s Disease and Their Care Partners Receiving Accessible Research Education
Authors: Ramos Maria E. , Pothineni Suraj , Ni Liang , Bay Allison A. , Prusin Todd , Hackney Madeleine E.
Published: September 2023

Background. People with Parkinson’s disease (PWP) and their care partners (CP) are underrepresented in research. Methods. As an eight-week research advocacy training program, TeleDREAMS was designed to increase understanding of, and participation in, clinical research by older adults through topics on the research process. Qualitative analysis was conducted to explore themes from 365 thirty-minute semistructured phone interviews with 32 PWP and 17 CP TeleDREAMS participants. Interviews gauged progress, motivation, and information retention after each weekly module. Results. Eight salient themes were identified from the interviews, including Understanding the Importance of Advocacy and Becoming Cognizant of Past Advocacy Experiences. Conclusions. While some findings aligned with weekly module topics, others, such as stated learning preferences and knowledge acquisition of older adults in an educational program, were unexpected. TeleDREAMS may increase interest in community engagement, research participation, and advocacy roles in marginalized and underrepresented participants.
Development, Characterisation, and Performance Evaluation of Some Indigenous Plants for Faecal Sludge Treatment in Ghana
Authors: Ahmed Issahaku , Awuah Esi , Essandoh Helen M. K. , Oduro-Kwarteng Sampson , Ofori-Amanfo Dennis , Cobbold Florence , Oduro-Adu Joshua
Published: September 2023

The search for alternative solutions for sustainable management of faecal sludge in the area of dewatering with biocoagulants/bioflocculants remains unfulfilled. Some available and accessible indigenous plants in the northern part of Ghana have been characterised and subsequently evaluated in their suitability for use as biocoagulant/bioflocculants. The Yila (Crossopteryx febrifuga) and the Voulo (Grewia mollis) plants were the indigenous plants used in this study. Three applications from the Yila wooden stem, the Yila bark, and the Voulo at different treatment concentrations with faecal sludge were monitored. The Yila wooden stem gave a potential of pollutant removal up to about 83.99%, 93.79%, and 91.54% for Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and turbidity, respectively. Application of the Yila bark gave a respective removal efficiency of up to about 77.39%, 82.02%, and 54.60% for COD, TSS, and turbidity. The efficiency of the Voulo plant obtained for COD, TSS, and turbidity was up to about 80.43%, 86.83%, and 72.55%, respectively. No cyanogenic or toxic compounds were identified in the characterised raw materials used for this study. The study has revealed the potential of producing biocoagulants that can perform as effectively as synthetic/chemical coagulants using locally natural raw materials but the use of it at large scale will only be applicable for batch or semi-batch systems. Some interesting constituents identified in the plants under consideration, such as trialkyl bismuthine and furan derivative, can open up opportunities to elucidate the potential applications of these identified plants in the areas of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, glass and ceramics, rubber production, and other applicable medicinal advantageous areas.
First-in-Human PET Imaging of [18F]SDM-4MP3: A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Desmond Kimberly L. , Lindberg Anton , Garcia Armando , Tong Junchao , Harkness Michael B. , Dobrota Elena , Smart Kelly , Uribe Carme , Meyer Jeffrey H. , Houle Sylvain , Strafella Antonio P. , Li Songye , Huang Yiyun , Vasdev Neil
Published: September 2023

[18F]SynVesT-1 is a PET radiopharmaceutical that binds to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) and serves as a biomarker of synaptic density with widespread clinical research applications in psychiatry and neurodegeneration. The initial goal of this study was to concurrently conduct PET imaging studies with [18F]SynVesT-1 at our laboratories. However, the data in the first two human PET studies had anomalous biodistribution despite the injected product meeting all specifications during the prerelease quality control protocols. Further investigation, including imaging in rats as well as proton and carbon 2D-NMR spectroscopic studies, led to the discovery that a derivative of the precursor had been received from the manufacturer. Hence, we report our investigation and the first-in-human study of [18F]SDM-4MP3, a structural variant of [18F]SynVesT-1, which does not have the requisite characteristics as a PET radiopharmaceutical for imaging SV2A in the central nervous system.
Model-Free Robust Backstepping Adaptive Cruise Control
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Song Jiacheng
Published: September 2023

This paper studies the model-free robust adaptive cruise control problem of a vehicle with unknown nonlinear dynamics and disturbances. First, under backstepping control framework, the position tracking errors with different spacing strategies are used to design a virtual control law, which provides a velocity reference. Then, a novel data-driven sliding surface whose parameters are updated by designing estimation algorithm is developed to handle the unknown uncertainties and disturbances. Finally, the model-free robust backstepping adaptive cruise control (MFRB-ACC) method including PI control, model-free control, and robust control is designed. The novelty of the proposed control technique lies in its strong robustness, which is not based on the precise vehicle model. The designed data-driven sliding surface releases the necessity for the accurate mathematical model of the vehicle and guarantees the inherent robustness of the controller, in particular to uncertainties, modelling error, or external disturbance. Moreover, the designed controller contains three terms such that it has an effective decoupling ability and strong robustness. The effectiveness and superiority of the designed MFRB-ACC method are validated on MATLAB, and the simulation results show that compared to the PID algorithm, the designed MFRB-ACC algorithm can track its preceding vehicle with lower tracking error under different spacing strategies, different operating conditions, and low sampling frequencies. Especially at a sampling frequency of 0.1 s, the error under the PID-ACC increases from 0.2 m at a sampling frequency of 0.01 s to 2 m, and the error under MFRB-ACC has little change compared to the error at a sampling frequency of 0.01 s.
Performance of Orthopaedic Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons on a Biostatistical Knowledge Examination
Authors: Collins Andrew P. , McCall Max , Cassinat Joshua , Grise Alison , Schwartzman Jonathan , Kelly John , Service Benjamin C.
Published: September 2023

Background. The objective of this study is to evaluate the biostatistical interpretation abilities of fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeons. Methods. A cross-sectional survey was administered to orthopaedic surgeon members of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), assessing orthopaedic surgeon attitudes towards biostatistics, confidence in understanding biostatistics, and ability to interpret biostatistical measures on a multiple-choice test. Results. A 4.5% response rate was achieved with 55 complete survey responses. The mean percent correct was 55.2%. Higher knowledge test scores were associated with younger age and fewer years since board exam completion (

p
≤
0.001

). Greater average number of publications per year correlated with superior statistical interpretation (

p
=
0.009

). Respondents with higher self-reported confidence were more likely to accurately interpret results (

p
≤
0.017

). Of the respondents, 93% reported frequently using statistics to form medical opinions, 98% answered that statistical competency is important in the practice of orthopaedic surgery, and 80% were eager to continue learning biostatistics. Conclusions. It is concerning that fellowship-trained shoulder and elbow surgeons, many of whom frequently publish or are reviewing scientific literature for publication, are scoring 55.2% correctly on average on this biostatistical knowledge examination. Surgeons that are further from formal statistical knowledge training are more likely to have lower biostatistical knowledge test scores. Respondents who published at the highest rate were associated with higher scores. Continuing medical education in biostatistics may be beneficial for maintaining statistical knowledge utilised in the current literature.
Nurses’ Work Methods Assessment Scale: A Construct Validation
Authors: Ventura-Silva J. M. , Martins M. M. , Trindade L. L. , Faria A. C. , Barros S. C. , Melo R. M. , Oliveira I. J. , Castro S. F. , Ribeiro O. M.
Published: September 2023

Background. A nursing work method is the base for the organization and implementation of nursing care to patients based on nurses’ skills. Nurses’ work methods are consensually organized into two groups: task-oriented work methods (functional method) and client-centered work methods (teamwork method, individual work method, and work method per reference nurse). As for the impact of the work method on clients, we highlight the interference in the quality of care provided and, regarding nurses, the impact on workload and job satisfaction. Therefore, the existence of tools that allow identifying the organizational methodologies of nursing care is relevant. Aim. The aim of the study is to test the validity and reliability of the nurses work methods assessment scale (NWMAS). Methods. The methodological study followed the recommendations of the EQUATOR network. The NWMAS was previously developed as a self-completion questionnaire. To determine construct validity, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed. Results. 325 participants were enrolled in this study. In exploratory factor analysis, the 25 items comprising NWMAS were distributed in five dimensions, contemplating the work methods. Cronbach’s alpha of the total scale was 0.846. The confirmatory factor analysis revealed a good fit. Conclusion. The NWMAS is a valid and reliable tool. Implications for Nursing Practice. The NWMAS identifies the work methods adopted by nurses in hospital settings, is a valuable tool for nursing management, and contributes to the definition of strategies that promote the quality of nursing care and the safety of patients.
Therapy-Induced Senescence Contributes to the Efficacy of Abemaciclib in Patients with Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma
Authors: Gleason Caroline E. , Dickson Mark A. , Klein (Dooley) Mary E. , Antonescu Cristina R. , Gularte-Mérida Rodrigo , Benitez Marimar , Delgado Juliana I. , Kataru Raghu P. , Tan Mark Wei Yi , Bradic Martina , Adamson Travis E. , Seier Kenneth , Richards Allison L. , Palafox Marta , Chan Eric , D'Angelo Sandra P. , Gounder Mrinal M. , Keohan Mary Louise , Kelly Ciara M. , Chi Ping , Movva Sujana , Landa Jonathan , Crago Aimee M. , Donoghue Mark T.A. , Qin Li-Xuan , Serra Violetta , Turkekul Mesruh , Barlas Afsar , Firester Daniel M. , Manova-Todorova Katia , Mehrara Babak J. , Kovatcheva Marta , Tan Nguan Soon , Singer Samuel , Tap William D. , Koff Andrew
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

We conducted research on CDK4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) simultaneously in the preclinical and clinical spaces to gain a deeper understanding of how senescence influences tumor growth in humans.

Patients and Methods:

We coordinated a first-in-kind phase II clinical trial of the CDK4/6i abemaciclib for patients with progressive dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLS) with cellular studies interrogating the molecular basis of geroconversion.

Results:

Thirty patients with progressing DDLS enrolled and were treated with 200 mg of abemaciclib twice daily. The median progression-free survival was 33 weeks at the time of the data lock, with 23 of 30 progression-free at 12 weeks (76.7%, two-sided 95% CI, 57.7%–90.1%). No new safety signals were identified. Concurrent preclinical work in liposarcoma cell lines identified ANGPTL4 as a necessary late regulator of geroconversion, the pathway from reversible cell-cycle exit to a stably arrested inflammation-provoking senescent cell. Using this insight, we were able to identify patients in which abemaciclib induced tumor cell senescence. Senescence correlated with increased leukocyte infiltration, primarily CD4-positive cells, within a month of therapy. However, those individuals with both senescence and increased TILs were also more likely to acquire resistance later in therapy. These suggest that combining senolytics with abemaciclib in a subset of patients may improve the duration of response.

Conclusions:

Abemaciclib was well tolerated and showed promising activity in DDLS. The discovery of ANGPTL4 as a late regulator of geroconversion helped to define how CDK4/6i-induced cellular senescence modulates the immune tumor microenvironment and contributes to both positive and negative clinical outcomes.

See related commentary by Weiss et al., p. 649
Moleculargenetic and in Addition Partly Discrepant Infection Serological Malaria Testing in Two Blood Donors
Authors: Pichl Lutz , Konietzko Katja , Hartmann Ludwig , Puscasu Bogdan , Jiménez Klingberg Carlos
Published: September 2023

Introduction: According to the guidelines (GL) valid in Germany, persons born or raised in a malaria-endemic area or had continuously stayed in a malaria-endemic area for more than 6 months may only be admitted donating blood if, among other things, validated and quality-assured laboratory diagnostics show that there is no evidence of infectivity. In a statement of the Working Group "Blood" of the Federal Ministry of Health (WGB), a reduction of the deferral period from 4 to 3 years and an antibody test after the deferral period are recommended. Methods: In accordance with the GL, nucleic acid testing (NAT) by means of PCR is carried out at our institution after a retention period of 4 years. In addition to the validated molecular biological testing, an infection serological examination was performed. Case Presentation: In the present cases, Plasmodia genome was detected in the respective single PCR in two blood donors originating from malaria-endemic areas after the expiry of the deferral period. However, one donor tested negative for antibodies against Plasmodia. Discussion/Conclusion: This observation is discussed in the context of a recommendation of the WGB. The question is addressed whether PCR testing is dispensable or whether a combination of infection serological testing and NAT should be favored.
The Use of Crizotinib in Sclerosing Epithelioid Fibrosarcoma with ALK Mutation: A Case Report
Authors: Badran Ahmed , Steele Clara , Alquaydheb Hisham , Ba Theeb Ahmed , Bawazir Abdulmalek , Elshenawy Mahmoud A. , Atallah Jean Paul
Published: September 2023

Sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma is an ultra-rare and aggressive high-grade fibrosarcoma that was originally described in 1995. More than 100 cases are documented worldwide, with the most extensive case series reporting a high rate of recurrence and metastasis. ALK mutations are commonly seen in soft-tissue sarcomas; however, this is the first known case of an ALK V757M mutation. Here, we present a case using crizotinib in treating an ALK-positive sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma refractory to all traditional treatment options.
Fernanda Gomes: eloquência do silêncio
Authors: Drumond Matheus Filipe Alves Madeira
Published: September 2023

Fernanda Gomes tem se destacado no cenário artístico nacional por apresentar um trabalho pouco dócil ao sistema que o contém. Nosso intento nesta reflexão será demonstrar como sua obra (ou melhor, suas exposições-obras), amplamente perpassada pelas pequenas percepções e pela atenção exaustiva, formula uma estratégia de recepção singular – distinta da fugacidade da atenção hodierna e da intensiva discursividade do campo contemporâneo das artes. A hipótese de uma recepção singular é amparada pela constante recusa em atribuir nomes a obras e exposições (corriqueiramente intituladas com seu próprio nome, mais por insuficiência que por intenção), a insistência em destituir o poder das interferências discursivas curatoriais, sem que com isso suplemente o campo semântico do trabalho com sua própria subjetividade e vida.
Questões sobre a percepção sensível em Tomás de Aquino: consciência sensível e similitude intencional
Authors: Landim Filho Raul
Published: September 2023

Meu objetivo neste artigo é analisar e articular as principais noções da percepção dos sentidos externos segundo Tomás de Aquino: recepção da forma sem matéria, recepção intencional da forma, consciência sensível e similitude sensível intencional. Como eu mostrarei, essas noções conectadas à função do Senso Comum, são os alicerces do realismo tomista.
A centralidade da arte para a Crítica da faculdade do juízo
Authors: Vieira Vladimir
Published: September 2023

Embora seja comum reconhecer no belo natural o caso mais paradigmático para a argumentação que Kant desenvolve na Crítica da faculdade do juízo estética, encontramos reiteradas considerações sobre a arte na “Dedução transcendental” exposta nos §§30-38. Neste trabalho, argumento que há duas centralidades distintas em operação nessa obra. O belo natural é paradigmático porque sua predicação é a que melhor representa o ideal de pureza que corresponderia ao ajuizamento integralmente fundado em faculdades transcendentais; mas o belo artístico também pode ser considerado paradigmático, pois é por meio dos juízos sobre ele que melhor nos aproximamos de tal ideal.
O conflito civil e lei na obra de Maquiavel, entre interpretações republicanas e liberais: um comentário ao 'Maquiavelianas' de Sérgio Cardoso
Authors: Limongi Maria Isabel
Published: September 2023

Resenha sobre  'Maquiavelianas' de Sérgio Cardoso
Decoding Angiotensin Receptors: TOMAHAQ‐Based Detection and Quantification of Angiotensin Type‐1 and Type‐2 Receptors
Authors: Cosarderelioglu Caglar , Kreimer Simion , Plaza‐Rodriguez Alma I. , Iglesias Pablo A. , Talbot C. Conover , Siragy Helmy M. , Carey Robert M. , Ubaida‐Mohien Ceereena , O'Rourke Brian , Ferrucci Luigi , Bennett David A. , Walston Jeremy , Abadir Peter
Published: September 2023

Background

The renin‐angiotensin system plays a crucial role in human physiology, and its main hormone, angiotensin, activates 2 G‐protein–coupled receptors, the angiotensin type‐1 and type‐2 receptors, in almost every organ. However, controversy exists about the location, distribution, and expression levels of these receptors. Concerns have been raised over the low sensitivity, low specificity, and large variability between lots of commercially available antibodies for angiotensin type‐1 and type‐2 receptors, which makes it difficult to reconciliate results of different studies. Here, we describe the first non–antibody‐based sensitive and specific targeted quantitative mass spectrometry assay for angiotensin receptors.

Methods and Results

Using a technique that allows targeted analysis of multiple peptides across multiple samples in a single mass spectrometry analysis, known as TOMAHAQ (triggered by offset, multiplexed, accurate mass, high resolution, and absolute quantification), we have identified and validated specific human tryptic peptides that permit identification and quantification of angiotensin type‐1 and type‐2 receptors in biological samples. Several peptide sequences are conserved in rodents, making these mass spectrometry assays amenable to both preclinical and clinical studies. We have used this method to quantify angiotensin type‐1 and type‐2 receptors in postmortem frontal cortex samples of older adults (n=28) with Alzheimer dementia. We correlated levels of angiotensin receptors to biomarkers classically linked to renin‐angiotensin system activation, including oxidative stress, inflammation, amyloid‐β load, and paired helical filament‐tau tangle burden.

Conclusions

These robust high‐throughput assays will not only catalyze novel mechanistic studies in the angiotensin research field but may also help to identify patients with an unbalanced angiotensin receptor distribution who would benefit from angiotensin receptor blocker treatment.
Contrasting Deep and Shallow Winter Warming over the Barents–Kara Seas on the Intraseasonal Time Scale
Authors: Li Juncong , Chen Xiaodan , Guo Yuanyuan , Wen Zhiping
Published: September 2023

The vertical structure of Arctic warming is of great importance and attracts increasing attention. This study defines two types of Arctic warming events (deep versus shallow) according to their temperature profiles averaged over the Barents–Kara Seas (BKS), and thereupon compares their characteristics and examines their difference in generation through thermodynamic diagnoses. A deep Arctic warming event—characterized by significant bottom-heavy warming extending from the surface into the middle-to-upper troposphere—emanates from the east of Greenland and then moves downstream toward the BKS primarily through zonal temperature advection. The peak day of deep warming event lags that of the precipitation and resultant diabatic heating over southeast Greenland by about four days, suggesting that the middle-to-high tropospheric BKS warming is likely triggered by the enhanced upstream convection at the North Atlantic high latitudes. In contrast, a shallow warming event—manifested by warming confined within the lower troposphere—is preceded by the meridional advection of warm air from inland Eurasia. These anomalous southerlies over Eurasian lands during shallow warming events are related to the eastward extension of the deepened Icelandic low. During deep warming events, the in situ reinforcement of the Icelandic low favors abundant moisture transport interplaying with the southeast Greenland terrain, leading to intense precipitation and latent heat release there. Both deep and shallow warming events are accompanied by Eurasian cooling, but the corresponding cooling of the deep warming event is profoundly stronger. Further, intraseasonal deep Arctic warming events could explain nearly half of the winter-mean change in the warm Arctic–cold Eurasia anomaly.

Significance Statement

Divergent conclusions on whether Arctic warming is influencing the midlatitudes impede a clear understanding of the warm Arctic–cold Eurasia (WACE) phenomenon. Recent findings that on the interannual or longer time scales, Eurasian cooling tends to occur in the presence of deep rather than shallow Arctic warming have attracted increasing concern regarding the vertical structure of Arctic warming. On this basis, here we classify intraseasonal Arctic warming events into deep and shallow groups and contrast them from various aspects. Emerging near eastern Greenland and associated with upstream convection activities, intraseasonal deep Arctic warming events are accompanied by significant Eurasian cooling, largely determining the seasonal-mean WACE condition. However, caused by meridional temperature advection from Eurasian lands, shallow warming events less correlate with Eurasian cooling.
Effects of Clavien-Dindo Classification on Long-Term Survival of Patients With Advanced Gastric Cancer After Radical Resection: A Propensity Score-matched Study
Authors: Yan Wenwu , Zhu Lei , Wang Jinguo
Published: September 2023

Background

The impact of postoperative complications (POCs) classified by the Clavien-Dindo (C-D) system on long-term survival after radical resection in patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC) is not yet clear.

Methods

This study analyzed 531 patients with AGC who underwent radical resection in an institution between January 2015 and December 2017. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the occurrence of POCs and recorded according to C-D classifications. The long-term survival outcomes of the entire cohort after propensity score matching (PSM) were compared.

Results

After PSM, there was no significant difference in baseline data between the complications (C) group (n = 92) and the non-complications (NC) group (n = 92). Survival analysis showed that the 5-year overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) were lower in the C group (48.9% vs 62.0%, P = .040; 38.5% vs 54.9%, P = .005; respectively). Subgroup analysis showed that severe complications (C-D grade > II) were associated with a decrease in 5-year OS and RFS compared with the matched NC group (40.0% vs 62.0%, P = .008; 29.4% vs 54.9%, P = .001; respectively). Multivariate analysis confirmed adjuvant chemotherapy, tumor size, and complications were independent risk factors for poor survival outcomes. Further multivariate analysis showed that older age, combined excision, and comorbidities were independent risk factors for POCs.

Conclusions

Severe complications reduced the survival outcome of patients. More attention should be paid to perioperative management of patients with high risk factors for complications.
Book review: Nitya Nanda, India’s Industrial Policy and Performance: Growth, Competition and Competitiveness
Authors: Ghosh Sangeeta
Published: September 2023

Nitya Nanda, India’s Industrial Policy and Performance: Growth, Competition and Competitiveness, Routledge, 2019, 194 + xvii pp., ₹995, ISBN: 9781032234083 (Hardcover).
Representations of the COVID-19 Crisis in Argentina
Authors: Feierstein Daniel
Published: September 2023

The initial search for a strategy to contain the COVID-19 in Argentina took place in a context of political agreements and strong social support. However, this climate of cooperation and consensus was short-lived, and the authorities were soon forced to turn to mitigation strategies. Emotional and ethical-moral considerations gradually displaced a rational, scientific approach to fighting the pandemic, and social representations of it became increasingly impervious to evidence. The results of this defeat of the precautionary principle were an unnecessarily large number of deaths and the undermining of the notions of community responsibility, rights, and mutual obligations.

La búsqueda inicial de una estrategia para contener el COVID-19 en Argentina se dio en un contexto de acuerdos políticos y fuerte apoyo social. Sin embargo, este clima de cooperación y consenso duró poco, y las autoridades pronto se vieron obligadas a recurrir a estrategias de mitigación. Las consideraciones emocionales y ético-morales desplazaron gradualmente el enfoque racional y científico para combatir la pandemia, y las representaciones sociales de la misma se volvieron cada vez más impermeables a la evidencia. Los resultados de esta derrota del principio de precaución fueron un número de muertes innecesariamente grande y un deterioro en las nociones de responsabilidad comunitaria, derechos y obligaciones mutuas.
How do Students and Faculty Consider Numerical Ratings and Comments About Daily Quizzing when Interpreting Student Evaluations of Teaching?
Authors: Rivers Michelle L. , Babineau Addison L. , Neely Katherine P. , Tauber Sarah K.
Published: September 2023

Background

Student evaluations of teaching (SETs) are used to assess faculty performance, but prior research has identified sources of bias in the completion and interpretation of SETs.

Objective

We investigated how SET ratings and comments about quizzes are interpreted by faculty and undergraduates.

Method

Participants made judgments about teaching effectiveness after reviewing a fictional professor's SETs. SETs varied in whether the professor was rated lower or higher than the departmental average using quantitative measures, and whether qualitative comments about the professor mentioned daily quizzes.

Results

In Experiment 1, more positive evaluations were provided for SETs with higher ratings, whereas comments about quizzing minimally influenced evaluations; this pattern was similar for student and faculty responses. In Experiment 2, qualitative comments were presented in isolation. Student participants provided more positive evaluations for some measures of teaching effectiveness when regular quizzing was mentioned in student comments.

Conclusion

Quantitative SET ratings may overshadow qualitative comments about effective teaching practices yet qualitative ratings presented alone reveal some association between quizzing and evaluations of teaching.

Teaching Implications

SET interpretation should focus on effective pedagogy such as quizzing, which can aid student learning. We found no evidence that comments about quizzing lowered perceptions of teaching effectiveness.
An investigation of the electrical and thermal performances of the photovoltaic wall with different air gap thicknesses and modes in winter
Authors: Li Kai , Zhou Yan , Wei Difang , Jin Xiaoyu
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the optimal air gap thickness of PV wall in different modes (unclosed, partially-enclosed, enclosed). Based on the heat transfer models and evaluation indexes of PV wall, the electrical and thermal performances are analyzed with experimental method and COMSOL software. The experimental results show that 100 mm thickness can be selected as the optimum size for air gap. The computed results show that PV wall with a 50 mm thickness fully enclosed air gap is the best, with a daily total energy savings of 328.06 Wh/m2, but it is not obvious compared with 100 mm. Therefore, the optimal scheme in winter is to use the 50∼100 mm thickness fully enclosed air gap. The exterior surface temperature of 50 mm and 100 mm enclosed air gap are significantly higher than the bare wall. They can increase equivalent thermal resistances by 0.41 and 0.51 m2·K/W, respectively. Furthermore, the reasons for the total energy savings decreasing with the increase enclosed air gap thickness are discussed.

The results of this research can provide some guidance for the application of PV walls in similar climate regions and promote the development of building integrated photovoltaics.
Effect of COVID vaccination on monthly migraine days: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: van der Arend Britt W. H. , Bloemhof Mirthe M. , van der Schoor Alle G. , van Zwet Erik W. , Terwindt Gisela M.
Published: September 2023

Background

This longitudinal cohort study aimed to investigate changes in migraine-related outcomes following COVID-19 infection and vaccination.

Methods

We identified 547 clinically diagnosed migraine patients from the Leiden Headache Center who kept a headache E-diary during the COVID-19 pandemic (February 2020 to August 2022). We sent a questionnaire to register their COVID-19 infection and/or vaccination dates. After applying inclusion criteria, n = 59 participants could be included in the infection analysis and n = 147 could be included in the vaccination analysis. Primary outcome was the change in monthly migraine days (MMD) between 1 month prior and 1 month post COVID-19 infection or vaccination. Secondary outcome variables were change in monthly headache days (MHD) and monthly acute medication days (MAMD).

Results

Vaccination against COVID-19 was associated with an increase in MMD (1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.57–1.55; p < 0.001), MHD (1.52; 95% CI = 0.91–2.14; p < 0.001) and MAMD (0.72; 95% CI = 0.33–1.12; p < 0.001) in the first month post-vaccination. COVID-19 infection solely increased the number of MAMD (1.11; 95% CI = 0.10–1.62; p < 0.027), but no statistically significant differences in MMD or MHD were observed.

Conclusions

Our findings imply that vaccination against COVID-19 is associated with an increase in migraine, indicating a possible role of inflammatory mediators in migraine pathophysiology.
Rotator Cuff Repair and Overlay Augmentation by Direct Interlocking of a Nonwoven Polyethylene Terephthalate Patch Into the Tendon: Evaluation in an Ovine Model
Authors: Meyer Dominik C. , Bachmann Elias , Darwiche Salim , Moehl Andrea , von Rechenberg Brigitte , Gerber Christian , Snedeker Jess G.
Published: September 2023

Background:

Arthroscopic repair of large rotator cuff tendon tears is associated with high rates of retear. Construct failure often occurs at the suture-tendon interface. Patch augmentation can improve mechanical strength and healing at this interface.

Purpose:

To introduce a novel technique for suture-free attachment of an overlaid patch and evaluate its biomechanical strength and biological performance.

Study Design:

Descriptive and controlled laboratory studies.

Methods:

An established ovine model of partial infraspinatus tendon resection and immediate repair was used. After a nonwoven polyethylene terephthalate patch was overlaid to the resected tendon, a barbed microblade was used to draw fibers of the patch directly into the underlying tissue. In vivo histological assessment of healing was performed at 6 and 13 weeks after implantation. Ex vivo models were used to characterize primary repair strength of the suture-free patch fixation to tendon. Additional ex vivo testing assessed the potential of the technique for patch overlay augmentation of suture-based repair.

Results:

The in vivo study revealed no macroscopic evidence of adverse tissue reactions to the interlocked patch fibers. Histological testing indicated a normal host healing response with minimal fibrosis. Uniform and aligned tissue ingrowth to the core of the patch was observed from both the tendon and the bone interfaces to the patch. There was no evident retraction of the infraspinatus muscle, lengthening of the tendon, or tendon gap formation over 13 weeks. Ex vivo testing revealed that direct patch interlocking yielded tendon purchase equivalent to a Mason-Allen suture (150 ± 58 vs 154 ± 49 N, respectively; P = .25). In an overlay configuration, fiber interlocked patch augmentation increased Mason-Allen suture retention strength by 88% (from 221 ± 43 N to 417 ± 86 N; P < .01) with no detectable difference in repair stiffness.

Conclusion:

Testing in an ovine model of rotator cuff tendon repair suggested that surgical interlocking of a nonwoven medical textile can provide effective biomechanical performance, support functional tissue ingrowth, and help avoid musculotendinous retraction after surgical tendon repair.

Clinical Relevance:

The novel technique may facilitate patch augmentation of rotator cuff repairs.
Factors Associated With Sports Function and Psychological Readiness to Return to Sports at 12 Months After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Cronström Anna , Häger Charlotte K. , Thorborg Kristian , Ageberg Eva
Published: September 2023

Background:

Sports function and psychological readiness to return to sports (RTS) are important outcomes when evaluating rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). It is, however, unclear which specific factors contribute most to these outcomes.

Purpose:

To determine associations between demographic characteristics, objective measurements of physical function, patient-reported outcome measure scores, sports-related function assessed with the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sport and Recreation subscale, and psychological readiness to RTS assessed with the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale at 1 year after ACLR.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

At a mean of 12.5 ± 2.0 months after ACLR, 143 participants (50.3% female), with a mean age of 25.0 ± 5.7 years, were assessed for demographic characteristics, physical factors (hop performance, muscle strength, ankle and hip range of motion), and psychological factors (KOOS Pain and Symptoms subscales, Perceived Stress Scale, fear of reinjury) as well as the KOOS Sport and Recreation subscale and ACL-RSI scale. Backward linear regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with sports function and psychological readiness to RTS.

Results:

Lower isokinetic knee extension peak torque (limb symmetry index) (B = 18.38 [95% CI, 3.01-33.75]), lower preinjury activity level (B = 2.00 [95% CI, 0.87-3.14]), greater knee pain (B = 0.90 [95% CI, 0.70-1.10]), shorter time between injury and reconstruction (B = 0.16 [95% CI, 0.05-0.26]), and greater fear of reinjury (B = 0.11 [95% CI, 0.01-0.20]) were associated with a worse KOOS Sport and Recreation subscore ( R2 = 0.683). A shorter hop distance (B = 0.15 [95% CI, 0.00-0.29]) was associated with a lower ACL-RSI score ( R2 = 0.245).

Conclusion:

A combination of knee muscle strength, activity level, knee pain, timing of surgery, and fear of reinjury accounted for approximately 70% of the variation in sports function at 1 year after ACLR. In contrast, there was only 1 weak association between physical function and psychological readiness to RTS at this time point. Thus, factors associated with current sports function are much better known than features related to psychological readiness to RTS.
The Influence of Quadriceps Strength and Rate of Torque Development on the Recovery of Knee Biomechanics During Running After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Knurr Keith A. , Cobian Daniel G. , Kliethermes Stephanie A. , Stiffler-Joachim Mikel R. , Heiderscheit Bryan C.
Published: September 2023

Background:

After anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), altered surgical knee biomechanics during running is common. Although greater quadriceps strength is associated with more symmetrical running knee kinetics after ACLR, abnormal running mechanics persist even after resolution of quadriceps strength deficits. As running is a submaximal effort task characterized by limited time to develop knee extensor torque, quadriceps rate of torque development (RTD) may be more closely associated with recovery of running knee mechanics than peak torque (PT).

Purpose:

To assess the influence of recovery in quadriceps PT and RTD symmetry on knee kinematic and kinetic symmetry during running over the initial 2 years after ACLR.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 39 Division I collegiate athletes (106 testing sessions; 19 female) completed serial isometric performance testing and running analyses between 3 and 24 months after ACLR. Athletes performed maximal and rapid isometric knee extension efforts with each limb to assess PT and RTD between-limb symmetry indices (PTLSI and RTDLSI), respectively. Peak knee flexion difference (PKFDIFF) and peak knee extensor moment limb symmetry index (PKEMLSI) during running were computed. Multivariable linear mixed-effects models assessed the influence of PTLSI and RTDLSI on PKFDIFF and PKEMLSI over the initial 2 years after ACLR.

Results:

Significant main effects of RTDLSI ( P < .001) and time ( P≤ .02) but not PTLSI ( P≥ .24) were observed for both PKFDIFF and PKEMLSI models. For a 10% increase in RTDLSI, while controlling for PTLSI and time, a 0.9° (95% CI, 0.5°-1.3°) reduction in PKFDIFF and a 3.5% (95% CI, 1.9%-5.1%) increase in PKEMLSI are expected. For every month after ACLR, a 0.2° (95% CI, 0.1°-0.4°) reduction in PKFDIFF and a 1.3% (95% CI, 0.6%-2.0%) increase in PKEMLSI are expected, controlling for PTLSI and RTDLSI.

Conclusion:

Quadriceps RTDLSI was more strongly associated with symmetrical knee biomechanics during running compared with PTLSI or time throughout the first 2 years after ACLR.