bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association between antibiotics use and osteoporotic fracture risk: a nationally representative retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lee Ji Won , Park Sun Jae , Park Young Jun , Jeong Seogsong , Song Jihun , Kim Hye Jun , Chang Jooyoung , Kim Kyae Hyung , Kim Ji Soo , Oh Yun Hwan , Cho Yoosun , Park Sang Min 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Summary

This population-based retrospective cohort study aimed to estimate the association between antibiotic exposure and osteoporotic fracture risk. Long-term antibiotic use was associated with the risk of osteoporotic fracture. An increase in the number of antibiotic classes prescribed may also be associated with an increased osteoporotic fracture risk.

Purpose
This study aims to examine the association between antibiotic usage and osteoporotic fractures in a large cohort of Korean adults, with a specific focus on the duration of antibiotic exposure and the number of antibiotic classes used.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study from the National Health Insurance Service-National Health Screening Cohort (NHIS-HEALS) database from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2019, included 167,370 Korean adults aged 50 years or older (mean [SD] age, 59.3 [7.82] years; 65,425 [39.09%] women). The cumulative antibiotic prescription days and the classes of antibiotics prescribed between 2004 and 2008 were exposure variables, respectively. The main outcome was a newly diagnosed osteoporotic fracture during follow-up. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to determine the adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the incident osteoporotic fractures associated with antibiotic exposure.

Results
The antibiotic user group with 91 days had a higher risk of osteoporotic fracture in comparison to the antibiotic non-user group (aHR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.03–1.21). Additionally, those who used more than four different antibiotic classes had an elevated risk of osteoporotic fracture compared to the non-user group (aHR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.02–1.18).

Conclusion
This extensive population-based cohort study conducted on a large population has identified an association between the utilization of antibiotics and an elevated risk of osteoporotic fractures. The cumulative days exposed to antibiotics and osteoporotic fractures may be positively associated.
Rediscovery of Chimarra marginata (Linnaeus, 1767) (Philopotamidae, Trichoptera, Insecta) in the Czech Republic after 80 years
Authors: Zapriháčová Andrea , Chvojka Pavel , Janeček Emil , Komzák Petr , Navara Tomáš 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe ecology and distribution of caddisflies is an important topic with regard to the general biodiversity of insects and also the ecological quality of freshwaters. Our recent rediscovery of Chimarra marginata (Linnaeus) in the Czech Republic took place after more than 80 years and is important from a biomonitoring point of view. We present new data from the Ohře River in western Bohemia and give a review of the historical occurrence of this species in the territory of former Czechoslovakia. Ecological preferences are discussed as well as the potential value of the species for bioindication. This report also emphasizes the importance of regular routine sampling to monitor changes in species diversity.
Endocarditis in Adult Congenital Heart Disease Patients: Prevention, Recognition, and Management
Authors: Carvajal Victoria , Reyes Fernando Baraona , Gonzalez David , Schwartz Matthew , Whiltlow Angela , Alegria Jorge R. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Present an updated overview of the prevention, diagnosis, and management of infective endocarditis in adult patients with congenital heart disease.

Recent Findings
Care for patients with infective endocarditis is changing in the areas of specialized teams, diagnostics, and prevention. Endocarditis teams should be involved in the care of ACHD patients. The 2023 Duke Criteria for Infective Endocarditis and the 2023 European Society of Cardiology Guidelines have updated the criteria for diagnosis including new major criteria such as CT and positron emission computed tomography with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) scans. Immunological, PCR, and nucleic acid-based tests are now acceptable means to isolate infective organisms. Clindamycin is no longer recommended for antibiotic prophylaxis due to resistance and side effect profile. Special considerations for antibiotic prophylaxis and management must be made for specific congenital heart diseases in adulthood and pregnant ACHD patients.

Summary
Infective endocarditis (IE), a potentially devastating clinical entity, is a feared threat to the health of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). IE needs a systematic approach for its prevention, early diagnosis and management with a multidisciplinary IE team’s involvement. There have been changes in the diagnostics and management of IE, which is reflected in updated diagnostic criteria. Timely blood cultures and imaging continue to be the mainstay of diagnosis, however the timing of blood cultures, microbiological testing, and types of diagnostic imaging such as the positron emission computed tomography with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) scan are new. Bicuspid aortic valves, ventricular septal defects, transcatheter pulmonary valve replacements, and tetralogy of Fallot are diagnoses at higher risk for IE in the ACHD population. The following article will focus on the preventive strategies, in addition to novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches of IE in ACHD patients.
The polychromatism of postmortem cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Trella S. , Reinert C. , Heinsen H. , Preiß U. , Monoranu CM. , Zwirner J. , Ondruschka B. , Bohnert M. , Bohnert S. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBased on the assumption that postmortem cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is contaminated depending on the chosen sampling technique in the forensic setting resulting in bloody or at least hemolytic CSF samples, we systematically documented a total of 183 postmortem CSF samples. These samples were all assessed for their quality and color, regardless of the cause of death or the postmortem interval. The investigations were carried out through subjective assessment of color and turbidity, as well as objective measurements of the optical density (OD) of the CSF supernatants after centrifugation of each sample, with standardized photographic documentation. The observations revealed that in 28 cases the CSF was absolutely (crystal-) clear and transparent. Most of our samples showed color changes ranging from xanthrochromic to rose. Intensive staining of the supernatants was only found in a small proportion of the examined collective. We found that postmortem CSF has no uniform appearance but rather a diverse range of color spectra, and the color, as well as the OD of the CSF, correlates significantly with the postmortem interval (p < 0.001) when sampled using the proposed standard procedure.
From lockdown to cradle: Navigating the psychological challenges of childbirth during the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy– Evidence from a 3-year analysis
Authors: La Rosa Valentina Lucia , Oddo-Sommerfeld Silvia , Schermelleh-Engel Karin , Commodari Elena 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis cross-sectional study investigated the mental health of Italian women who gave birth during the three years of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study focused on the impact of the partner’s presence during childbirth, the time point of birth in relation to pandemic waves, hospital restrictions, and individual attitudes regarding the pandemic. In addition, the study aimed to determine potential risk or protective factors for postpartum depression. 1,636 Italian women who gave birth between 2020 and 2022 in a hospital-restricted setting were surveyed anonymously online. Standardized questionnaires were used to evaluate depression, post-traumatic stress, and psychological well-being. Women who gave birth in 2020 had the highest percentage of unaccompanied births and higher levels of depression and fear of COVID-19. Women who gave birth alone reported higher depression and post-traumatic stress and lower psychological well-being. Furthermore, they were more frightened by COVID-19 and less in agreement with pandemic restrictions than women who gave birth with their partner present. The main risk factors for postpartum depression were childbirth in 2020, high COVID-19 anxiety, discomfort with pandemic restrictions, and the partner’s absence during birth. Protective factors were the partner’s presence during childbirth and satisfaction with the partner relationship. This study emphasizes the importance of targeted support to women who give birth during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce risk factors and enhance protective factors, particularly by strengthening the partner’s presence. Future research should focus on children born during these tumultuous periods, assessing potential impacts on their developmental trajectories and relationships with primary caregivers.
Spatiotemporal Variation in Habitat Suitability Within a Major Producing Area for Age-0 Atlantic Striped Bass, Morone saxatilis
Authors: Dixon Rachel L. , Fabrizio Mary C. , Tuckey Troy D. , Bever Aaron J. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractEstuarine environments are recognized as critical nursery habitats that are necessary to sustain overall fish production. Striped bass Morone saxatilis support recreational and commercial fisheries along the Atlantic coast of the United States, and annual surveys to assess juvenile (age-0) abundance in Chesapeake Bay, the major producing area for the population, have long been used in management. Factors that contribute to high juvenile abundance are not fully understood. We used catch data from fishery-independent surveys coupled with hindcasts from a pair of numerical models to quantify the extent of summer habitats used by age-0 striped bass throughout Chesapeake Bay for 1996–2017. Specific conditions that defined habitat suitability for age-0 striped bass varied throughout the summer and among years, reflecting changes in water quality and habitat use. Shallow, nearshore areas throughout the Bay consistently supported suitable conditions for age-0 striped bass, but the estimated extent of suitable habitat varied annually at both regional and local, tributary-specific, scales. Although the areal extent of suitable habitat Bay-wide in early summer declined since 1996, fish production was not limited. Nonetheless, a pattern of increasing relative abundance of age-0 striped bass with greater extent of suitable habitats in Chesapeake Bay was observed, suggesting that the availability of suitable habitats at the scale of individual tributaries and Bay-wide may play an important role in production of this estuarine-dependent species.
Efficacy of a Multi-lamellar Emulsion Containing a Synthetic Sphingosine Kinase 1 Activator and Pseudoceramide in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee So Yeon , Park Jin Seo , Kim Daehwan , Jeong Wonseok , Hwang Chenghwan , Kim Hye One , Park Chun Wook , Chung Bo Young 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) have impaired barrier function, which decreases skin hydration, weakens their defense against microorganisms, and culminates in increased inflammatory responses. Here, we conducted a clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of a multi-lamellar emulsion (MLE) containing the pseudoceramide PC-9S and a synthetic sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) activator, Defensamide™, in improving mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis.

Methods
Forty patients aged ≥ 2 years were randomized into a combined-therapy group treated with the MLE containing PC-9S and Defensamide™ plus a topical corticosteroid and a topical-corticosteroid-only group. Assessments based on therapeutic methods included the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), skin dryness, a visual analogue scale (VAS) of itchiness, a VAS of sleep disturbance, patient satisfaction, and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI).

Results
Thirty-eight patients completed this study. In the combined-therapy group, significant improvements in clinical and instrumental measures such as EASI scores, skin hydration, and skin dryness were noted at 4 weeks compared to baseline, but such improvements were not noted in the topical corticosteroid-only group. Subjective assessments of itching and sleep disturbance and DLQI scores also showed significant improvements in the combined-therapy group.

Conclusion
Combined therapy with the MLE containing Defensamide™ and PC-9S and with topical corticosteroid demonstrated superior clinical outcomes compared with topical corticosteroid monotherapy. Our findings underscore the potential of MLE-containing formulations as effective adjunctive therapies for AD, offering both objective and subjective symptomatic relief and enhancing patients' quality of life.
Valuation of ecosystem service of rice-fish coculture in Maubin District, Myanmar
Authors: Myo Arkar , Ajayi Oluwafemi , Huang Fei , Cheng Yongxu , Li Jiayao 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn Myanmar, the advancement of the integrated rice-fish farming system legs behind rice monoculture farming, and there exists limited awareness of its advantages. Ecosystem services (ES) valuation plays a crucial role in integrated environmental decision-making, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, facilitating land-use planning, and ensuring food security in rural areas. Assessing the ES value in Delta region of Myanmar where rice-fish coculture is extensively practiced is essential for understanding the level of ES benefits derived from this farming system. The objective of this study is to promote the development of the rice-fish coculture system in delta region by estimating its ES value. We conducted a comprehensive examination of the Direct, Indirect, Option and Existence ES value of the rice-fish and rice monoculture in Maubin District, an area where rice-fish development research is being actively carried out within the delta region. The results revealed that the ES value of rice-fish coculture ecosystems in the study area was amounted to 28,588 US$/hm2/year. This value was 2.82% higher than rice monoculture system. Additionally, the rice-fish coculture system yielded product provisional values averaging 1,275 US$/hm2/year, representing a significant increase of 40.3% compared to rice monoculture farming. Our study shows that the adoption of rice-fish coculture farming system not only improves the ES value of the delta region, but also supports food security and socio-economic well-being. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights for policymakers on effective management policies for future development of the rice-fish coculture ecosystem.
Foreign Policy Appointments
Authors: Malis Matt 
Published: August 2024

AbstractHow do leaders select their top-level foreign policy appointees? Through a formal model of the domestic and intragovernmental politics surrounding an international crisis, I investigate the trade-offs shaping leaders’ appointment strategies. In the model, a leader selects a foreign policy appointee, anticipating how the appointment will affect the advice he receives in the crisis, the electorate's evaluation of his performance, and ultimately the policies that he and his foreign counterparts pursue as a consequence. The analysis uncovers a fundamental tension in the leader's ability to use appointments to advance his core political and policy objectives of deterring foreign aggression, obtaining accurate advice, and maximizing domestic approval: any appointment that advances one of these objectives invariably comes at the cost of another, and the leader's appointment strategy must balance across these trade-offs. Analyzing cross-national appointment patterns to the offices of ministers of defense and foreign affairs, I find descriptive evidence consistent with the model's predictions: leaders from dovish parties are more than twice as likely as leaders from hawkish parties to select cross-partisan and politically independent appointees, and such appointments are less likely for leaders of either party as they approach re-election.
Beati Immaculati in Via
Authors: Johnston L. 
Published: August 2024

Legalism is for many people one of the more difficult aspects of religion. We cannot help feeling, with some unease, how close it comes to the spirit of the scribes and Pharisees, the very antithesis of New Testament religion, the service of the heart, the freedom of the sons of God. As a subject of prayer, then, it will be even more difficult to assimilate. An ‘Ode to the Codex Juris Canonici’ would surely be limited in its appeal, and as a hymn would not be an obvious success. Yet it is precisely this sort of prayer which the psalter presents to us in psalm I, for example, or 118, or the second half of psalm 18.The acrostic form used by many of these psalms does not lessen our difficulty. Psalm 118 is in fact a tour de force in this style: it is composed of twenty-two stanzas of eight lines each, in which each line begins with the same letter of the alphabet so that the twenty-two stanzas go through the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Such a form, one might well think, does not make for great poetry; it is a rigid straight-jacket strangling any lyrical impulse or indeed any proper development of thought. And we may be tempted to think that this form is the reflection of the subject matter—uninspired, formalised, the apotheosis of the legal spirit.
The Movement for a Better World
Authors: Anderson Robin 
Published: August 2024

In writing, not long ago, of what he has found in the Movement for a Better World, Fr Ludwig Tovini, Italian Dominican member of the movement's promoting group, referred, amongst other things, to an equilibrium between the grandiose wish to change the world and the realistically moderated belief in the possibility of change, and advocacy of it, without Utopian optimism that would banish the existence of evil from the earth. Such equilibrium, difficult to maintain on account of continually having to avoid die danger of falling into one excess or another, is not so common, Fr Tovini went on to say, even in the Catholic field, ours being an age when ‘whimsical hankerings after originality often lead to the taking up of unbalanced or eccentric positions …'.A ‘better world’ Pope Pius XII defined as being a world ‘more according to the heart of God', giving to this relative concept an essentially Christian value.
Mr Greene's Sad Men
Authors: Hinchliffe Arnold P. 
Published: August 2024

Graham Greene's last two works of prose fiction are very encouraging. No one can deny Greene's competence in the early work, nor his Tightness in choosing characteristic themes of the times (violence, cauchemar, sex and sin) and treating them in suitable modes (the employment of cinematographic devices, newspaper techniques and popular psychology), but the high estimate of Greene, particularly on the continent (he shares it with Somerset Maugham, it appears), has always raised doubts among his serious English readers. There is the central problem of his obvious commitment to Roman Catholicism which affects the reader; and, it is fair to say, irritates both Catholic and non-Catholic reader. Writing as a Catholic, I should say that the main burden of complaint is the meretricious nature of this involvement. We can admit that Greene can and does present the conditions of salvation and damnation with vivid effectiveness; Pinkie, wandering through the back-streets of Brighton in the early morning, presents us with the sensation and the dilemma:He heard a whisper, looked sharply round, and thrust the paper back.
The Messianic Idea in Contemporary Jewish Thought
Authors: Polack A. I. 
Published: August 2024

On the eve of the Sabbath and Festivals a hymn is regularly sung in all Synagogues and Jewish homes, called ‘Yigdal’ (Magnificat). It contains in poetic form thirteen principles of the Jewish faith, originally formulated in the twelfth century by Maimonides, the great Jewish philosopher who had such a profound influence on his contemporaries (such as Thomas Aquinas), and among them there is a verse which runs, ‘He will send our Anointed (Messiah) at the end of days to redeem them that wait for the end—his salvation'.That is one of many allusions to the coming of the Messiah in the Hebrew Prayer-book in general use today. Some of them actually mention his descent, as the phrase in the Festival Amidah: ‘May our remembrance rise and come and be accepted before thee … together with the remembrance of Messiah, the son of David'.
The Holy Name
Authors: A. K. R.  
Published: August 2024

‘See, the name of the Lord is coming from afar and its brightness fills the world.’We begin the new liturgical year looking forward to the coming of one whose name is hidden from us, but gradually revealed in the course of Advent. This name ‘comes from afar', it comes indeed from the heart of God, from the mind of the Father, because it is the name of his Word, his only-begotten and well-beloved Son. But as yet it is to us a deep mystery. We are gazing at this profound mystery from a great distance, and because of the immense abyss which separates us from God, our sight is blurred. In our state of fallen human nature, our gaze is darkened because of original sin and our own personal sins and therefore we need the brightness, the shining clarity of this name to fill the whole earth. It must fill our minds because the truth of God is for us so obscure.
Teaching the Faith
Authors: Boxer Charles 
Published: August 2024

Those of us who are called upon from time to time to teach the faith to children are often perplexed about what we should in fact teach. The Catholic faith, of course; the catechism seems the obvious choice, it is clear and easy to learn. But then what are we to do about the scriptures? It is not always very clear how we can combine the two, they follow their own rhythms.When I was sent to teach at a Catechism Camp last summer the problem Was very much in my mind—the very name ‘Catechism Camp’ seemed to indicate the method; and yet I had found, the previous year, that catechism teaching is far from satisfactory in itself. The children know the answers on the whole, and the meaning behind the answers tends to confine one to the logical steps of a remote theology.
The Principal Means of Perfection
Authors: Lallemant Père 
Published: August 2024

I. THE SACRAMENTSTHE principal practices which lead to perfection are the sacraments when we approach them with the necessary preparation; yet, curiously enough, this is the very truth which is most neglected. The sacraments give graces which result in the production within us of the effects proper to them: confession brings great purity of heart, Holy Communion close union with God and spiritual fervour in all our actions…. The more you approach the sacraments, the more graces you will receive to share in their effects. But the effects of these sacraments, namely purity of heart and spiritual fervour, are themselves the best preparation we can make to receive them.A soul which before Holy Communion was in darkness, weak and languishing, but after it becomes enlightened, fervent and strong cannot doubt of the fruit of its communion, because the sacraments’ effect is to give their proper sacramental grace Hence after a good confession the soul receives much light on its interor dispositions, humble and loving contrition, and peace of a quiet conscience.