bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping of systematic reviews on traditional medicine across health conditions: a protocol for a systematic map
Authors: Ang Lin , Song Eunhye , Jong Miek C , Alræk Terje , Wider Barbara , Choi Tae-Young , Jun Ji Hee , Lee Boram , Choi Yujin , Lee Hye Won , Yang Changsop , Lee Myeong Soo
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Traditional medicine (TM) is an important part of healthcare either as the main healthcare system or as a complement to conventional medicine. The effectiveness of TM has been assessed in clinical trials that have been synthesised into thousands of systematic reviews (SRs). This study is commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is aimed at providing a systematic map of SRs of TM interventions across health conditions, as well as identifying gaps in the research literature in order to prioritise future primary research.

Methods and analysis

This is the protocol for a systematic map of SRs reported in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P). We will search 17 electronic databases to identify SRs of TM. The literature search covers the last 5 years, from January 2018 to December 2022. At least two independent reviewers will perform the database search, screening of eligible SRs, data extraction and quality assessments using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2). The characteristics and extent of SRs will be analysed according to disease classification, and type of TM intervention, and visualised by means of (interactive) graphical maps.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as this is a systematic map of published studies. The findings of the study will be disseminated through online-available maps, presentations and scientific publications.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023416355.
The human skeletal muscle metaboreflex contribution to cardiorespiratory control in males and females in dynamic exercise
Authors: Leahy Michael G. , Benbaruj Jenna M. , Payne Owen T. , Foster Glen E. , Sheel A. William
Published: December 2023

There is a significant effect of sex and muscle mass on the cardiorespiratory response to the skeletal muscle metaboreflex during isometric exercise. We therefore tested the hypothesis that sex differences would be present when isolated following dynamic exercise. We also tested the hypothesis that single and double leg post-exercise circulatory occlusion (PECO) following heavy exercise would elicit a cardiorespiratory response proportional to the absolute muscle mass. Healthy (24 ± 4 years) males ( n = 10) and females ( n = 10) completed pulmonary function and an incremental cycle test to exhaustion. Participants completed two randomized, 6 min bouts of intense cycle exercise (84 ± 7% V̇O2peak). One exercise bout was immediately followed by 3 min PECO (220 mmHg) of the legs while the other exercise bout was followed by passive recovery. Males completed an additional session of testing with single leg PECO. The mean arterial pressure during PECO and control was greater in males compared to females ( p = 0.004). The was a significant time by condition by sex interaction in the heart rate response to PECO ( p = 0.027). There was also a significant condition by sex interaction in the ventilatory response to PECO ( p = 0.026). In males, we observed a dose-dependent cardiovascular, but not ventilatory, response to muscle mass occluded (all p < 0.05). Our findings suggest the metaboreflex contribution to cardiorespiratory control during dynamic exercise is greater in males compared to females. The ventilatory response induced by double-leg occlusion but not single-leg occlusion, suggests that the ventilatory influence of the metaboreflex is less sensitive than the cardiovascular response and may be linked to the greater afferent activation induced by double-leg occlusion.
A Randomised Control Trial Comparing the Outcomes of Anterior with Posterior Approach for Transfer of Spinal Accessory Nerve to Suprascapular Nerve in Brachial Plexus Injuries
Authors: AGRAWAL Anand , KAPOOR Akshay , SINGH Vivek , RAO Neeraj , CHATTOPADHYAY Debarati
Published: December 2023

Background: In brachial plexus surgery, a key focus is restoring shoulder abduction through spinal accessory nerve (SAN) to suprascapular nerve (SSN) transfer using either the anterior or posterior approach. However, no published randomised control trials have directly compared their outcomes to date. Therefore, our study aims to assess motor outcomes for both approaches.

Methods: This study comprises two groups of patients. Group A: anterior approach (29 patients), Group B: Posterior approach (29 patients). Patients were allocated to both groups using selective randomisation with the sealed envelope technique. Functional outcome was assessed by grading the muscle power of shoulder abductors using the British Medical Research Council (MRC) scale.

Results: Five patients who were operated on by posterior approach had ossified superior transverse suprascapular ligament. In these cases, the approach was changed from posterior to anterior to avoid injury to SSN. Due to this reason, the treatment analysis was done considering the distribution as: Group A: 34, Group B: 24. The mean duration of appearance of first clinical sign of shoulder abduction was 8.16 months in Group A, whereas in Group B, it was 6.85 months, which was significantly earlier (p < 0.05). At the 18-month follow-up, both intention-to-treat analysis and as-treated analysis were performed, and there was no statistical difference in the outcome of shoulder abduction between the approaches for SAN to SSN nerve transfer.

Conclusions: Our study found no significant difference in the restoration of shoulder abduction power between both approaches; therefore, either approach can be used for patients presenting early for surgery. Since the appearance of first clinical sign of recovery is earlier in posterior approach, therefore, it can be preferred for cases presenting at a later stage. Also, the choice of approach is guided on a case to case basis depending on clavicular fractures and surgeon preference to the approach.

Level of Evidence: Level II (Therapeutic)
Upcoming SIGWEB Supported Conferences
Authors: Roßner Daniel
Published: December 2023

The Special Interest Group on Hypertext and the Web, SIGWEB was created in 1989 to support the community participating in the annual ACM Hypertext Conference. In its fourth decade, SIGWEB continues its efforts to support a wide range of communities and eight annual conferences. SIGWEB supports several specialized conferences, short courses, and workshops of different sizes, as well as the annual Hypertext Conference. SIGWEB sponsored conferences focus on timely topics in applied and computational hypertext and Web disciplines and provide a place for members and the entire applied Hypermedia and Web community to exchange ideas and to meet with and expand their network of colleagues. In this article, we provide a brief overview of SIGWEB sponsored conferences, in addition to events that are in cooperation with SIGWEB.
AEKA: FPGA Implementation of Area-Efficient Karatsuba Accelerator for Ring-Binary-LWE-Based Lightweight PQC
Authors: Bao Tianyou , He Pengzhou , Xie Jiafeng , Jacinto H S.
Published: December 2023

Lightweight PQC-related research and development have gradually gained attention from the research community recently. Ring-Binary-Learning-with-Errors (RBLWE)-based encryption scheme (RBLWE-ENC), a promising lightweight PQC based on small parameter sets to fit related applications (but not in favor of deploying popular fast algorithms like number theoretic transform). To solve this problem, in this article, we present a novel implementation of hardware acceleration for RBLWE-ENC based on Karatsuba algorithm, particularly on the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) platform. In detail, we have proposed an area-efficient Karatsuba Accelerator (AEKA) for RBLWE-ENC, based on three layers of innovative efforts. First of all, we reformulate the signal processing sequence within the major arithmetic component of the KA-based polynomial multiplication for RBLWE-ENC to obtain a new algorithm. Then, we have designed the proposed algorithm into a new hardware accelerator with several novel algorithm-to-architecture mapping techniques. Finally, we have conducted thorough complexity analysis and comparison to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed accelerator, e.g., it involves 62.5% higher throughput and 60.2% less area-delay product (ADP) than the state-of-the-art design for
n
=512 (Virtex-7 device, similar setup). The proposed AEKA design strategy is highly efficient on the FPGA devices, i.e., small resource usage with superior timing, which can be integrated with other necessary systems for lightweight-oriented high-performance applications (e.g., servers). The outcome of this work is also expected to generate impacts for lightweight PQC advancement.
Enhancement of intestinal calcium transport by short-chain fatty acids: roles of Na+/H+ exchanger 3 and transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily 6
Authors: Thammayon Nithipak , Wongdee Kannikar , Teerapornpuntakit Jarinthorn , Panmanee Jiraporn , Chanpaisaeng Krittikan , Charoensetakul Netnapa , Srimongkolpithak Nitipol , Suntornsaratoon Panan , Charoenphandhu Narattaphol
Published: December 2023

Organic molecules in the intestinal lumen, e.g., glucose and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), the latter of which are normally produced by microfloral fermentation, can stimulate calcium absorption dependent on transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily 6 (TRPV6) and Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3). A selective TRPV6 inhibitor synthesized and demonstrated by in silico docking and molecular dynamics to specifically bind to the pore domain of TRPV6 was used to confirm a significant contribution of this channel. Our findings corroborate physiological significance of nutrients and SCFAs in enhancing calcium absorption.
Host-microbiota interactions contributing to the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Xiaoyi , Wu Dingfeng , Li Qiuyu , Gu Jinglan , Gao Wenxing , Zhu Xinyue , Yin Wenjing , Zhu Ruixin , Zhu Lixin , Jiao Na
Published: December 2023

This study determined the following: 1) providing a comprehensive landscape of consensus molecular subtype (CMS)-specific tumor microenvironments (TMEs); 2) constructing CMS-specific networks, including host genes, intratumoral microbiota, and enriched pathways, analyzing their associations to uncover unique patterns that demonstrate the intricate interplay within the TME; and 3) revealing a connection between immune-rich subtypes and ferroptosis activation, suggesting a potential regulatory role of the microbiota in ferroptosis dysregulation of the colorectal cancer TME.
Elastomagnetic Sensor-Based Long-Term Tension Monitoring of Prestressed Bridge Member with Temperature Compensation
Authors: Park Jooyoung , Kim Won-Kyu , Jeon Kyo-Young , Park Seunghee
Published: December 2023

Continuous monitoring of the prestressed members of a bridge under construction using the free cantilever method (FCM) is crucial for ensuring bridge safety. Temperature-sensitive sensors require special considerations as they may misinterpret the signal and tension. Moreover, the unnecessary and inappropriate use of features obtained from the sensor signal can deteriorate the efficiency of the signal and, therefore, tension analysis. This study proposes a tension estimation method using an embedded elastomagnetic (EM) sensor with a temperature-compensation technique. Changes in the signal due to the tension in the temporary steel rods were analyzed using a full-scale test, and the sensor data were acquired for 15 months via the field application. The temperature effect on the signal could be removed by subtracting the tension from the signal using the thermistor data, reducing the error by 91.99% when considering permeability. Additionally, linear regression (LR) and machine learning (ML) algorithms were adopted to predict the tension. Furthermore, the performances of both algorithms were compared using mean absolute error (MAE) and R2. For the prediction using each feature in magnetic hysteresis, LR surpassed ML and the permeability exhibited the highest prediction performance. Meanwhile, predictions using multiple features were attempted to investigate the applicability of ML. Two cases of prediction were performed using ML: on using all the features and the other using three features excluding coercivity, which showed poor relevance to tension. As a result, the performance of the tension prediction was improved significantly compared to the results obtained by LR. In summary, the obtained results have demonstrated that the utilization of selective features of data with temperature compensation techniques could enhance predictive power.
Safety of Elixinol Hemp Extract: In Vitro Genetic Toxicity and Subchronic Toxicity in Rats
Authors: Dziwenka Margitta , Dolan Laurie C. , Rao Mithila
Published: December 2023

The results of safety studies performed with Elixinol Hemp Extract, a blend of hemp extract, cannabidiol (CBD) isolate, and copaiba containing approximately 65% total CBD, are described in this paper. In a 15-day range-finding study in rats, there were no effects of treatment with up to 101.4 mg/kg bw/day of the extract by gavage on any safety parameter measured in the study, with the exception that centrilobular hepatocellular hypertrophy occurred in all treatment groups, which correlated with increases in absolute liver weight in high-dose females and liver to terminal body weight ratio in mid-dose and high-dose females. A GLP-compliant 90-day OECD Guideline 408 study in rats that included a behavioral battery and a 28-day recovery phase was also conducted with Elixinol Hemp Extract administered by gavage. The doses used in the 90-day study were 0 (vehicle), 28.94, 50.64, and 86.81 mg/kg bw/day. The findings were similar to those observed in the range-finding study. There were no effects of the test material on any test parameter in the 90-day study other than findings related to the liver (increased liver weight in high-dose main study males and mid-dose and high-dose main study females and low incidences of hepatocellular hypertrophy and vacuolation in main study high-dose males). Similar findings were not observed in the recovery animals, and there were no alterations in the clinical chemistry suggestive of liver toxicity in any of the main study or recovery animals. Therefore, the liver outcomes observed in the main study were not considered adverse. The test material also tested negative for mutagenicity in bacterial reverse mutation assays (plate incorporation and preincubation) in the absence and presence of metabolic activation. The results indicate that the oral 90-day no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of Elixinol Hemp Extract in rats is 86.81 mg/kg bw/day (highest dose administered), and that the extract is not mutagenic.
Prevalence of Dental Caries in Schoolchildren from the Galapagos Islands: ESSO-Gal Cohort Report
Authors: Armas-Vega Ana , Parise-Vasco Juan Marcos , Díaz-Segovia María Cristina , Arroyo-Bonilla David Alejandro , Cabrera-Dávila María José , Zambrano-Bonilla María Christel , Ordonez-Romero Ingrid , Caiza-Rennella Andrea , Zambrano-Mendoza Andrea , Ponce-Faula Celia , Viteri-García Andrés
Published: December 2023

Objective. Dental caries remains a prevalent disease worldwide. Several epidemiological studies have shown that it affects the oral health of the pediatric population, and the Galapagos population in Ecuador is no exception. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of dental caries and its association, based on baseline information from the Galapagos Oral Health Study (ESSO-Gal), in children of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 804 children aged 2–11 years. The prevalence of dental caries was assessed using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS II) criteria, while the presence of dental biofilm was assessed using the Silness–Löe index. Descriptive statistics, including frequency analysis and measures of central tendency and dispersion, were performed. Inferential statistical analyses were conducted to identify associations between variables. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS version 25.0 statistical program. Results. The caries prevalence rates based on ICDAS II codes 1–6, 1–2, and 3–6 were 98.01%, 96.9%, and 85%, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed among the different islands regarding the cutoff point for ICDAS II codes 3–6 (

p
≤
0.001

). Participants aged 6–11 years had the highest caries prevalence. Conclusions. The results show a high prevalence of dental caries among children in the Galapagos Islands, which increases with age. Contrary to expectations, the study did not find a significant correlation between the severity of dental caries and the presence of dental biofilm.
Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Linked to Streptococcal Infections
Authors: Alqifari Abdullah Nasser , Maxwell Benjamin
Published: December 2023

Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) is a clinical condition with abrupt onset of obsessive–compulsive symptoms and/or severe eating restrictions and at least two concomitant cognitive, behavioral, or neurological symptoms. Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS) is a subtype of PANS with a controversial diagnosis. A case of a 12-year-old girl with severe eating restriction, obsessive–compulsive symptoms, anxiety, and neurological symptoms who initially was diagnosed with obsessive–compulsive disorder is presented. Published reports were reviewed for the evidence of diagnosis and treatment options of PANS/PANDAS. Studies show controversy regarding diagnosis. Moreover, study reports showed limited evidence for the treatment options. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and psychotherapy are considered the main treatment with prompt infection treatment in the case of PANDAS.
Analysis of Traffic Volume and Travel-Time Relationship Using Continuous One-Hour Values on Urban Expressway
Authors: Fujita Motohiro , Aratani Atsuki , Yamada Shinji
Published: December 2023

To make more efficient use of the expanded freeway and urban expressway networks, various measures such as bottleneck management and wide-area congestion pricing based on traffic data obtained from traffic detectors, including traffic volume and travel time, have been considered. Generally, the congestion status of the data varies from day to day. This study proposes a method for analyzing a graph of traffic volume and travel time to visually and intuitively grasp the change in the daily traffic situation using continuous one-hour values. These values are continuously generated hourly values obtained by shifting data every minute. Twenty-four hours 1 minute data for 128 days on 32 segments with detectors in the Nagoya Expressway Network in Japan were used to draw a continuous one-hour value graph. A number of graphs showed loops of continuous one-hour values with congestion and a smooth variation characteristic of values over time. These graphs provide an accurate estimate of the daily maximum one-hour traffic volumes and facilitate a sequential understanding of the congestion pattern changes on successive route segments. Hourly travel-time prediction models were constructed to macroscopically examine congestion measures over a range of several hours. These models were fabricated with high accuracy using multiple regression analysis based on the characteristics of continuous one-hour values. Exploratory predictive analysis of hourly travel-time models has allowed us to study and discuss various congestion factors in road structures and traffic flows, and it has been found to be easy to grasp the phenomenon and ensure accuracy and operability.
A Study on Justicia flava (Forssk.) Vahl.: Pharmacognostic Characterization and Antiplasmodial and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of the Leaves
Authors: Asante-Kwatia Evelyn , Baah Michael Kwesi , Forkuo Arnold Donkor , Anokwah Daniel , Nketia Reinhard Isaac , Gyimah Lord , Mensah Abraham Yeboah
Published: December 2023

Justiciaflava (Acanthaceae) is utilized in folk medicine for treating malaria, inflammatory conditions, and respiratory infections. In this study, the antiplasmodial and anti-inflammatory activities of the 70% hydroalcoholic leaf extract of J. flava (JFE) were investigated. The antiplasmodial activity was assessed by the suppressive test and Rane’s curative test. The carrageenan-induced paw oedema assay in chicks was used to assess the anti-inflammatory activity. In Rane’s curative test, JFE significantly suppressed the parasitaemia level (

p

 < 0.0001) by 56.85%, 63.85%, and 77.85% at 30, 100, and 300 mg·kg−1, respectively. The highest suppression of parasitaemia in the suppressive test was 51.31% at 300 mg·kg−1. The extract prolonged the survival time of infected mice significantly and prevented weight loss and hypothermia which are cardinal signs of P. berghei-induced infection. JFE inhibited foot oedema in chicks with a maximum percentage inhibition of 54.00 ± 5.20%. Pharmacognostic characterization of J. flava revealed it to have simple, petiolate, oppositely arranged leaves which are broadly lanceolate in shape with entire to slightly crenate margins. Microscopy of the leaf showed wavy-walled epidermal cells, diallelocytic stomata, abundant clothing and secretory trichomes, pitted vessels, collateral conjoint vascular bundles, cystoliths, and prismatic calcium oxalate crystals. Flavonoids, tannins, phytosterols, triterpenoids, coumarins, alkaloids, and saponins were detected in the plant. This study has provided important parameters for the correct identification of J. flava and given the scientific credence to its antimalarial and anti-inflammatory effects in traditional medicine. J. flava is a potential source of new antimalarial and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Weighted-Combined Model for Reclaimed Foundation Settlement Prediction in Coastal Sludge-Bearing Composite Stratum
Authors: Li Boyan , Liu Zaobao , Chen Wen , Li Ziang , Ma Xilei , Zhang Jing
Published: December 2023

Foundation settlement prediction is significant to the reuse and management of the reclaimed land from the sea by dykes where composite stratum of many strata with different physical and mechanical properties is encountered. Toward the foundation settlement analysis of reclaimed land in the Yellow Sea composite stratum in eastern China, a weighted-combination model is proposed in this paper combining the hyperbolic model, exponential curve model, and Asaoka model. First, the weight coefficient of the weighted-combination model is calculated by the reciprocal square method of average absolute error (MAE). Second, the settlement prediction results of different models are evaluated by the absolute error, MAE, root-mean-square error, and mean absolute percentage error. Finally, the settlement mechanism of reclaimed foundations in a composite stratum is analyzed from the point of view of the multistratum coupling, and the adaptability of different models to the settlement prediction of reclaimed foundations in a composite stratum is discussed. The results show that the predicted settlement duration curves of the weighted-combined model are in good agreement with the measured settlement duration curves, and the prediction performance is better than that of the hyperbolic model, exponential curve model, and Asaoka model. The MAE of the weighted-combination model is 75.7% lower than that of the exponential curve model, 90.2% lower than that of the hyperbolic model, and 70% lower than that of the Asaoka model. This model provides a new way to predict the settlement of reclaimed foundations in a similar composite stratum.
Entopallium Lost GFAP Immunoreactivity during Avian Evolution: Is GFAP a “Condition Sine Qua Non”?
Authors: Kálmán Mihály , Sebők Olivér M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The present study demonstrates that in the same brain area the astroglia can express GFAP (the main cytoskeletal protein of astroglia) in some species but not in the others of the same vertebrate class. It contrasts the former opinions that the distribution of GFAP found in a species is characteristic of the entire class. The present study investigated birds in different phylogenetic positions: duck (Cairina moschata domestica), chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus), and quails (Coturnix japonica and Excalfactoria chinensis) of Galloanserae; pigeon (Columba livia domestica) of a group of Neoaves, in comparison with representatives of other Neoaves lineages, which emerged more recently in evolution: finches (Taeniopygia guttata and Erythrura gouldiae), magpie (Pica pica), and parrots (Melopsittacus undulatus and Nymphicus hollandicus). Methods: Following a perfusion with 4% buffered paraformaldehyde, immunoperoxidase reactions were performed with two types of anti-GFAP: monoclonal and polyclonal, on floating sections. Results: The entopallium (formerly “ectostriatum,” a telencephalic area in birds) was GFAP-immunopositive in pigeon and in the representatives of Galloanserae but not in songbirds and parrots, which emerged more recently in evolution. The lack of GFAP expression of a brain area, however, does not mean the lack of astroglia. Lesions induced GFAP expression in the territory of GFAP-immunonegative entopallia. It proved that the GFAP immunonegativity is not due to the lack of capability, but rather the suppression of GFAP production of the astrocytes in this territory. In the other areas investigated besides the entopallium (optic tectum and cerebellum), no considerable interspecific differences of GFAP immunopositivity were found. It proved that the immunonegativity of entopallium is due to neither the general lack of GFAP expression nor the incapability of our reagents to detect GFAP in these species. Conclusion: The data are congruent with our proposal that a lack of GFAP expression has evolved in different brain areas in vertebrate evolution, typically in lineages that emerged more recently. Comparative studies on GFAP-immunopositive and GFAP-immunonegative entopallia may promote understanding the role of GFAP in neural networks.
Correlation between Residual Sensitivity in the Central Inferior Nasal Visual Field and Visual Function in Chronic Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy Patients
Authors: Kishi Maya , Ueda Kaori , Kurimoto Takuji , Nakamura Makoto
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally inherited, acute or subacute, optic neuropathy. The typical symptoms include reduced visual acuity and central scotoma. Despite the presence of deep central scotoma, some patients with LHON are able to perform daily activities. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the residual visual field and visual acuity, critical flicker frequency, and fixation ellipse in patients with chronic LHON. Methods: Residual visual function (defined as sensitivity points where patients sensed the size V stimulus) of both eyes was evaluated in 10 patients with LHON carrying the m.11778 mitochondrial DNA mutation and with median age of onset and disease duration of 29 and 16.5 years, respectively. The central visual field was measured as static perimetry using the Humphrey visual field testing 30-2 program with the size III or V stimulus. Moreover, best-corrected visual acuity, critical flicker frequency, and the correlation between fixation ellipse and residual central visual fields were determined. The analysis was performed through a linear mixed-effects model. Results: The residual visual sensitivity in the inferior nasal visual field was significantly correlated with the logMAR (p < 0.05). The fixation ellipse fell within the residual visual field region with higher sensitivity. Conclusions: Patients with chronic LHON tended to retain the sensitivity detectable with the size V stimulus at the central inferior nasal visual field regions, where the fixation ellipse fell. Visual acuity, which influences daily activity, was spatially correlated with residual visual sensitivity.
Sclerococcum pseudobactrodesmium sp. nov. from a terrestrial habitat in China
Authors: MA JIAN , LIU NING-GUO , TANG XIA , XIAO XING-JUAN , CHEN XUE-MEI , XIAO YUAN-PIN , ZHANG YA-ZHOU , LU YONG-ZHONG , BOONMEE SARANYAPHAT
Published: December 2023

In this study, four terrestrial collections of bactrodesmium-like hyphomycetous fungi were isolated from rotten wood in Guizhou Province, China. Phylogenetic analyses based on the combined LSU, ITS, mtSSU, and SSU sequence matrix indicate that these four isolates represent one species belonging to the Sclerococcum within the Dactylosporaceae, and present a distinct lineage. Therefore, Sclerococcum pseudobactrodesmium sp. nov. was introduced with corresponding morphological descriptions. Sclerococcum pseudobactrodesmium represents the first lignicolous asexual species from a terrestrial habitat.
Coenura Bigot as a valid genus: A molecular and morphological phylogenetic analysis of Pelecorhynchus Macquart sensu lato (Diptera: Pelecorhynchidae)
Authors: GONZÁLEZ CHRISTIAN R. , SALDARRIAGA-CORDOBA MÓNICA , AGUILERA OMAYRA , MIRANDA-ESQUIVEL DANIEL RAFAEL
Published: December 2023

The phylogeny of the genus Pelecorhynchus Macquart (Diptera: Pelecorhynchidae) was analyzed using three genes, cytochrome oxidase I, 28S ribosomal DNA, and CAD5, with 112 morphological characteristics. A total of 59 specimens (13 outgroups and 46 ingroups) were included in the analysis. The monophyly of Pelecorhynchidae was recovered under all analyses, with Glutops Burgess as the sister group of Pelecorhynchus s.l., while Pseudoerinna jonesi (Cresson) was the sister group. Within “Pelecorhynchus” there are three main clades with unresolved affinities. Clade I was formed by P. personatus (Walker), P. vulpes (Macquart), P. penai Pechuman and P. kroeberi (Lindner), a well-supported clade. Clade II corresponds to the set of species of “Chilean Pelecorhynchus”, conformed to P. biguttatus (Philippi), P. toltensis Llanos & González, P. elegans (Philippi), P. xanthopleura (Philippi), P. hualqui Llanos & González, and P. longicauda (Bigot), a well-supported clade. Clade III is represented exclusively by P. fulvus Ricardo, which has an exclusively Australian distribution. The monophyly of P. fulvus and its nomenclature remain an open question, as only a single species of this taxon was included. Our study demonstrated that the concept of Pelecorhynchus should be revisited. Therefore, we restore Coenura Bigot, 1857 to generic status for part of the southern South American species of “Pelecorhynchus” conformed by the species C. biguttata, C. elegans, C. hualqui, C. longicauda, C. toltensis, and C. xanthopleura which are monophyletic, supported by molecular and morphological data, and consistent with a Chilean distribution.
A morphological study of the ovipositor of the genus Capillogryllus Xie, Zheng & Liang, 2003 with a new species of the genus from China (Orthoptera: Gryllidae; Gryllinae)
Authors: WU QIAN , ZHANG TAO , MA LI-BIN
Published: December 2023

The genus Capillogryllus includes three species, Capillogryllus dolabripalpis Xie & Zheng, 2003, Capillogryllus exilipalpis Xie & Zheng, 2003, Capillogryllus spinae Wu & Ma, 2023. Recently, we found a new species of this genus in Yadong County, Xizang Autonomous Region, and described it here. In addition, we found that the ovipositor varies greatly within this taxon, so we compare and characterize their ovipositor and discuss the feasibility of using the ovipositor alone to identify them. We also provide two keys based on the genitalia of males and females.
Forgetfulness as the primary presenting symptom of type A acute aortic dissection
Authors: Wang Junwen , Sun Ziyi
Published: December 2023

Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is the most common lethal disease affecting the aorta. Neurological symptoms have been linked to AAD in some patients. Although aortic dissection patients have previously been shown to present with neurological symptoms, AAD with forgetfulness as the first manifestation is extremely rare. To increase the awareness of AAD among clinicians, we report the first case of a male Chinese patient with AD presenting with forgetfulness as the initial symptom. A 53-year-old man presented to the emergency department with forgetfulness. Based on the concept that “time is brain,” stroke was initially considered in the differential diagnosis. The patient underwent emergency coronary angiography and was diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction. After contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography, the patient was finally diagnosed with AAD. Because valuable time was lost in diagnosis rather than treatment, optimal timing for surgery missed. The patient died following an aortic dissection rupture while waiting for emergency surgery. When forgetfulness cannot be completely accounted for in patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction, AAD should be considered. We believe that this case report contains a worthwhile clinical lesson for clinicians.
Comparison of Slot Deformation in Different Types of Bracket During Torque Application—A Finite Element Study
Authors: Shah Umar Hussain , Singla Anil , Mahajan Vivek , Jaj Harupinder Singh , Dhiman Indu , Thakur Shikha
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Torque in orthodontics plays a significant role in final positioning of the teeth. This twisting force in wire helps in transferring the applied forces to bracket, which sometimes causes deformation of slot. This slot deformation can vary torque prescription and affect tooth position.

Aims and Objectives

To compare the deformation of slots of different bracket materials after torque application using finite element analysis.

Materials and Methods

A finite element model of maxillary central incisor with bracket slot 0.022 × 0.028 inch dimensions was constructed. The different bracket materials such as stainless steel (SS), ceramic, and titanium were used with rectangular SS archwire (0.019 × 0.025 inch). The slot deformation was obtained after various degrees of torque application at 5°, 10°, 15°, and 20°. This slot deformation was also seen at the top, middle, and bottom locations in the slot. All these models were then analyzed using the Ansys software.

Results

The results showed that there was a gradual increase in deformation of all the bracket slot walls from bottom to top locations. The bracket slot deformation for 20° twist was 0.78, 1.85, and 4.53mm (SS); 0.24, 0.70, and 2.50 mm (ceramic bracket), and 1.82, 2.85, and 4.83 mm (titanium brackets) in bottom, middle, and top slot wall locations, respectively.

Conclusion

Slot deformation was seen highest in titanium brackets and least in ceramic brackets. Further in the slot wall, the deformation was highest in top location as compared to middle and bottom locations.
Dilemmas of 21st century land value capture: Examining Henry George’s legacy in a new Gilded Age
Authors: Wolf-Powers Laura
Published: December 2023

This essay reviews 20th century applications of Henry George’s thought by local and national policy makers in the Anglo-American context with the goal of better interpreting contemporary debates about land value capture (LVC). Proponents of LVC mechanisms argue that incentive zoning, planning obligations/exactions, special assessments, transfers of development rights, density bonusing, and tax increment financing can rebalance public and private wealth and promote economically redistributive development where direct government spending on social goods is not politically possible. Critical scholars question this stance, arguing that interventions pursued under the LVC banner often deliver publicly generated wealth to already-affluent parties while contributing to price escalation that harms low-income and middle-class citizens. An examination of Henry George’s foundational ideas sheds light on the challenges policy makers have faced in attempting to recover the “unearned increment” for the public. This analysis provides useful context for present-day debates about the advisability and practical effects of land value capture mechanisms.
Military Sexual Trauma As a Risk Factor for Treatment Non-Response from an Online, Self-Management Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Treatment for Women Veterans
Authors: Chen Jessica A. , Shofer Jane , Barnes Melissa L. , Livingston Whitney S. , Upham Michelle , Simpson Tracy L.
Published: December 2023

Women veterans are exposed to high rates of trauma, including military sexual trauma (MST), and face unique barriers to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment. Telehealth interventions that are tailored to women veterans’ unique lived experiences may improve treatment engagement and outcomes. It is important to ascertain how beneficial new telehealth interventions are in the context of different patient characteristics and trauma types, particularly for lower-intensity telehealth interventions (e.g., web-based programs or apps). This secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial conducted in a sample of 102 women veterans examines predictors of treatment response to a self-management, telehealth intervention for PTSD: Delivery of Self Training and Education for Stressful Situations-Women Veterans (DESTRESS-WV). In the trial, women veterans with PTSD received either an online cognitive behavioral intervention with phone coaching, or phone monitoring alone. We examined associations between baseline patient characteristics (demographics, trauma types, and clinical symptoms) and treatment outcome at post-treatment, 3 months, and 6 months, focusing on the association between treatment outcome and MST. Our primary outcomes were changes in PTSD (PTSD Symptom Checklist, Version 5, PCL-5) and depression (8-item Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-8) in the full sample, adjusting for treatment condition. Women veterans who identified MST as the primary trauma for which they were seeking PTSD treatment experienced a nearly nine-point lesser improvement on the PCL-5 than those seeking PTSD treatment for other trauma types (e.g., childhood abuse, combat trauma; p = .0073). Similar patterns were found for depression symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the association between trauma type and treatment outcomes within the context of a self-management, telehealth treatment for PTSD. While the study was not powered to examine differential treatment response for patient subgroups, our exploratory findings suggest that gaps remain in providing effective PTSD care for women veterans who experienced MST.

Trial registration: The trial and analysis plan were preregistered in ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02917447).
RNA-seq analysis revealed genes associated with neuropathic pain induced by chronic compressive injury in interferon regulatory factors 4 knockout mice
Authors: Peng Jiayi , Wu Yunlin , E Qi , Zhou Ziyin , Wen Xianjie
Published: December 2023

Objective

To explore the differential expression of genes between wild-type chronic compressive injury (CCI) mice (WT-CCI) and interferon regulatory factors 4 (IRF4) knockout CCI mice (KO-CCI) by RNA-seq analysis of the mouse spinal cord.

Methods

RNA-seq analysis of the spinal cord tissue of the chronic sciatic nerve ligation mice and Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses were used.

Results

A total of 104 genes were up-regulated and 116 genes were down-regulated in spinal cord of the mice in IRF4 knockout (KO-CCI) group compared with that in the wild-type CCI (WT-CCI) group. There were 1472 differentially expressed genes in the biological process group, 62 differentially expressed genes in the cellular component group, and 163 differentially expressed genes in the molecular function group in KO-CCI mice. A total of 14 genes related to inflammatory reactions were differentially expressed. Real-time PCR results confirmed that Pparg and Grpr mRNA expression was up-regulated and Arg 1 and Ccl11 mRNA expression was down-regulated in the KO-CCI group.

Conclusion

IRF4 is involved in neuropathic pain in CCI mice, IRF4 may participate in neuropathic pain by regulating Grpr, Mas1, Galr3, Nos2, Arg1, Ccl11, Ptgs2, S100a8, Pparg, Cd40, Has2, Gpr151, Il123a, Capns2, Ankrd1, Ccnb1, and Nppb genes.
Women on Boards Scale: Cordons and Catalysts to Enter Boardroom
Authors: Sunita  , Jhunjhunwala Shital
Published: December 2023

The underrepresentation of women on corporate boards and its influencers is an under-researched area in Asia, with the absence of standard scales measuring the catalysts and cordons for women’s career progression to boards. The research paper aims to develop and validate a multidimensional scale to measure the influences impacting women’s representation on boards in the Indian context. A pool of items was generated after a thorough review of existing literature and discussion with the experts. The Women on Boards Scale (WOBS) was constructed and validated based on a quantitative study of 509 female and male employees working in companies in Delhi and NCR. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis techniques were applied for the study. The study confirms the structure of major barriers as individual, societal, and organisational barriers, along with the entry barriers that women face during entry or re-entry into the organization and enablers as well for women to reach boards. A comprehensive scale was constructed with significant psychometric properties to measure the barriers and enablers for women to reach boards. The scale provides a robust and useful tool for policymakers and corporations to improve gender diversity on corporate boards.
Primary Mucinous Cystadenocarcinoma of the Breast: Clinicopathological Analysis of a Case and Difficulties Encountered in a Biopsy
Authors: Özşen Mine , Tolunay Şahsine , Gökgöz Mustafa Şehsuvar , Deligönül Adem
Published: December 2023

Background. With <40 case reports published in the English literature, mucinous cystadenocarcinoma of the breast is quite rare compared to its counterparts in the ovary, pancreas, and appendix. The purpose of this case report is to enrich scientific data by sharing the clinicopathological features of this new and extremely rare entity and present possible difficulties encountered in the biopsy materials. Case Report. A 34-year-old female patient presented with the complaint of white discharge from her left nipple lasting 8 months. Physical and radiological examination of the patient revealed a mass in the lower quadrant of the left breast and tru-cut biopsy was performed. The diagnosis of invasive breast carcinoma of no special type was reported. After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, left subcutaneous mastectomy and left sentinel lymph node biopsy were performed. Microscopic evaluation of the mastectomy material revealed a tumor consisting of stratified columnar cells with basally located nuclei and intracytoplasmic mucin, showing papillary structures and tufting toward the lumen. Peripheral myoepithelial cells were not identified with p63 and calponin immunohistochemistry. The diagnosis of mucinous cystadenocarcinoma was given through histomorphological and immunohistochemical evaluations. Conclusion. Clarifying unknown points about this rare malignancy of the breast and understanding the tumor biology is possible through evaluation of case reports. For this purpose, our case of primary mucinous cystadenocarcinoma is presented and its clinicopathological features are briefly discussed.
Real-world experience of patients with sickle cell disease treated with crizanlizumab
Authors: Chan Kok Hoe , Buddharaju Ruhi , Idowu Modupe
Published: December 2023

In 2019, crizanlizumab was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reduce the rate of vaso-occlusive crisis in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). We aimed to study the real-world effectiveness of crizanlizumab in our comprehensive sickle cell center. This was a retrospective cohort analysis of patients with SCD who received at least two consecutive doses of crizanlizumab. Clinically significant improvement was captured using the patient global impression of change scale (PGI-C). As of December 2022, there were 18 patients eligible for analysis with a median age of 30.5 years. Eight patients had the HbSS genotype, 7 HbSC, and 3 HbSB null genotype. Median duration of exposure to crizanlizumab was 53.6 weeks, and 16 (88.9%) patients received crizanlizumab for ≥26 weeks. Crizanlizumab was very well tolerated with no serious adverse events (grade ≥3) related to treatment. There was no significant difference in laboratory parameters. There was a remarkable improvement in patients’ subjective response to crizanlizumab infusion. The median PGI-C score of our patients was 5, signifying moderately better with slight but noticeable changes. The morphine equivalent daily doses (MEDD) were lower after crizanlizumab infusion. MEDD prior to crizanlizumab was 90; after ≥2 consecutive crizanlizumab doses, it was 60. There was also a reduction in the hospital admissions, emergency, and urgent care visit for acute pain crisis in 6 (28%) patients. This study shows that crizanlizumab was associated with improvement in patients’ response, both directly and indirectly related to the reduction of opioids used, which is consistent with results from the SUSTAIN trial.
Online Integrative Community Therapy in Latin America: Health Promotion in Times of COVID-19
Authors: Colatusso Franciele Delurdes , Uhry Júlia Feldmann , Barreto Adalberto de Paula , Reis Maria Lucia de Andrade , Carvalho Max Luiz de , Giolo Suely Ruiz , Silva Milene Zanoni da , Pecharki Giovana Daniela
Published: December 2023

This study described integrative community therapy (ICT) in the online modality as a health promotion resource in the context of COVID-19 in Latin America, characterizing the ICT circles, the ICT training centers, and the community therapists involved in this practice. It is a descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. Data were collected from November 2020 to July 2021 through an online questionnaire created on the Google Forms platform. The study’s first stage involved the participation of ICT training centers, while the second involved community therapists. Forty-three centers participated in the first stage; 86.1% offered online ICT in the period evaluated, and 74.4% trained professionals to implement this modality. In the second stage, 66 community therapists responded to the questionnaire. Of these, 49 (74.2%) resided in Brazil, 84.8% were female, and 72.7% performed the work voluntarily, with an average of 6.1 hours per week dedicated to online circles. Community-based circles were the most cited, followed by those linked to the public sector, with an average of 20.7 participants/circle in the period. The most frequent themes were stress and negative emotions, problems with work/unemployment, and family conflicts. Strengthening self-care, participation in ICT circles, and personal empowerment stood out among the coping strategies. In conclusion, online ICT proved to be an innovative resource for health promotion during the pandemic through the articulation and engagement of community therapists and different institutions, expanding solidary social networks, and showing itself as a sustainable practice in the Latin American scenario.