bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Airway microbiota correlated with pulmonary exacerbation in primary ciliary dyskinesia patients
Authors: Zhou Weitao , Guo Zhuoyao , Chen Jinglong , Chen Yao , He Chen , Lu Aizhen , Qian Liling 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is characterized by symptoms such as productive cough, rhinitis, and recurrent infections in both the upper and lower airways, which can lead to chronic infection, bronchiectasis, and decreased pulmonary function. Our study aimed to analyze the diversity and composition of the microbiota in the respiratory tract and investigate the correlation of the microbiota with pulmonary exacerbation in PCD patients. This study employed 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to explore the microbiota present in both bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and sputum samples collected from PCD patients. Eighty-five airway samples (17 BALF and 68 sputum samples) were collected from 72 patients aged 2 months to 60 years. Significantly lower sputum microbiota diversity and richness were found in the pulmonary exacerbation group than in the pulmonary stabilization group; additionally, the relative abundance of
Pseudomonas
increased when pulmonary exacerbation occurred. There was a positive correlation between pulmonary exacerbation and the relative abundance of
Pseudomonas
, while
Streptococcus
,
Moraxella
, and
Haemophilus
showed a negative correlation. Although there was no significant difference in the sputum microbiota diversity and composition in children aged 6–18 years with pulmonary exacerbation,
Pseudomonas
increased during pulmonary exacerbation. BALF samples of pediatric patients with pulmonary exacerbation had a lower microbiota diversity and richness; furthermore,
Pseudomonas
had a higher abundance and a moderate distinguishing effect. We found that microbiota beta diversity and dominance were decreased during pulmonary exacerbation. Additionally,
Pseudomonas
had a higher abundance and moderate distinguishing effect in pediatric patients with pulmonary exacerbation.

IMPORTANCE

PCD is a rare disease characterized by productive cough, rhinitis, and recurrent infections of the upper and lower airways. Because the diagnosis of PCD is often delayed, patients receive more antibiotics, experience a heavier financial burden, and have a worse prognosis; thus, it is very important to identify the pathogeny and use the correct antibiotic. In this large single-center study of PCD microbiota, we identified an outline of the bacterial microbes from the respiratory tract; furthermore, we found that the microbiota diversity in pediatric sputum was richer than that in pediatric BALF through sequencing, indicating a heterogeneous community structure. The microbiota diversity and richness were lower during pulmonary exacerbation than during pulmonary stabilization. A significantly higher abundance of
Pseudomonas
had a moderate distinguishing effect for lung exacerbation, which attracted more attention for the study of
Pseudomonas
therapy in pediatric patients with PCD.
The volatile record of volcanic apatite and its implications for the formation of porphyry copper deposits
Authors: Stonadge George , Miles Andrew , Smith Daniel , Large Simon , Knott Thomas 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Volatile saturation influences the physicochemical behavior of magmas and is essential for the sequestration of metals in porphyry copper deposits. Tracking the evolution of volatile components (F, Cl, H2O, S) in arc systems is complicated by their mobility and tendency to rapidly re-equilibrate with late-stage melts. We demonstrate that accurate measurements of volatile concentrations in apatite offer a reliable method for identifying the occurrence of volatile saturation. Fluorine, Cl, S, and calculated OH concentrations in apatite obtained by scanning electron microscope–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and electron microprobe analysis were used to compare two end-member volcanic systems in the West Luzon Arc (Philippines): Pinatubo (a fluid-saturated analogue for porphyry copper deposits) and Taal (a barren and fluid-undersaturated comparator). Apatites from Pinatubo are S-rich (0.04–0.64 wt%) and show a progressive decrease in XCl/XOH (0.6–0.25) and an increase in XF/XCl (1.5–8) and XF/XOH (0.75–1.2) during crystallization. Modeling indicates that these changes result from efficient partitioning of Cl into a continuously saturated H2O-rich fluid, while high regions of S in apatite reflect episodic flushing by a separate S-rich flux. Little S is evident in apatites from Taal (&lt;300 ppm), which show increasing XCl/XOH and XF/XOH together with constant XF/XCl during crystallization. This cannot be explained using an H2O-saturated model, and instead reflects fluid-undersaturated crystallization and cooling in a reduced and/or S-depleted system. Measured volatiles in apatite therefore effectively discriminate volatile-saturated and undersaturated magmatic systems, providing an important ‘fertility’ filter for porphyry exploration.
Automated expert-level scleral spur detection and quantitative biometric analysis on the ANTERION anterior segment OCT system
Authors: Bolo Kyle , Apolo Aroca Galo , Pardeshi Anmol A , Chiang Michael , Burkemper Bruce , Xie Xiaobin , Huang Alex S , Simonovsky Martin , Xu Benjamin Y 
Published: October 2023

AimTo perform an independent validation of deep learning (DL) algorithms for automated scleral spur detection and measurement of scleral spur-based biometric parameters in anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) images.MethodsPatients receiving routine eye care underwent AS-OCT imaging using the ANTERION OCT system (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany). Scleral spur locations were marked by three human graders (reference, expert and novice) and predicted using DL algorithms developed by Heidelberg Engineering that prioritise a false positive rate <4% (FPR4) or true positive rate >95% (TPR95). Performance of human graders and DL algorithms were evaluated based on agreement of scleral spur locations and biometric measurements with the reference grader.Results1308 AS-OCT images were obtained from 117 participants. Median differences in scleral spur locations from reference locations were significantly smaller (p<0.001) for the FPR4 (52.6±48.6 µm) and TPR95 (55.5±50.6 µm) algorithms compared with the expert (61.1±65.7 µm) and novice (79.4±74.9 µm) graders. Intergrader reproducibility of biometric measurements was excellent overall for all four (intraclass correlation coefficient range 0.918–0.997). Intergrader reproducibility of the expert grader (0.567–0.965) and DL algorithms (0.746–0.979) exceeded that of the novice grader (0.146–0.929) for images with narrow angles defined by OCT measurement of angle opening distance 500 µm anterior to the scleral spur (AOD500)<150 µm.ConclusionsDL algorithms on the ANTERION approximate expert-level measurement of scleral spur-based biometric parameters in an independent patient population. These algorithms could enhance clinical utility of AS-OCT imaging, especially for evaluating patients with angle closure and performing intraocular lens calculations.
Regional differences in firearm ownership, storage and use: results from a representative survey of five US states
Authors: Anestis Michael , Bond Allison E , Baker Nazsa , Semenza Daniel C 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundFirearm access and storage practices influence risk for injury and death; however, prior research has considered only national and regional differences on these variables, overlooking state-level differences.ObjectivesTo analyse and describe statewide differences in firearm ownership, storage and use in a representative sample of five US states.DesignVariables were assessed via an online self-report survey administered between 29 April 2022 and 15 May 2022.SettingSurveys were completed online.ParticipantsParticipants (n=3510) were members of knowledge panel, a probability-based sample recruited to be representative of US adults. All participants were aged 18+ and resided in one of five states: Colorado, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey or Texas.MeasurementsWe used χ2tests to examine state differences in firearm ownership, childhood firearm experiences and purchasing. A series of analyses of covariance were then used to assess differences in firearm storage, firearms owned and carrying behaviours while adjusting for pertinent demographic characteristics.ResultsWe found significant differences in firearm ownership across states. There were significantly more first-time firearm purchasers during the firearm purchasing surge in New Jersey. Both Mississippi and Texas have elevated rates of unsecure storage practices and firearm carrying outside of the home.LimitationsResults are cross-sectional and self-report. Findings may not generalise beyond the five states assessed in this survey.ConclusionsPublic health messaging around firearm safety should account for differences in key firearm behaviours related to ownership, storage and use to ensure effective communication and reduce the risk of gun injury and death across states.
Changing the standardised obstetric care by expanded carrier screening and counselling: a multicentre prospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Han-Ying , Lin Shin-Yu , Shih Jin-Chung , Kang Jessica , Tai Yi-Yun , Shaw Steven W. , Chen Kuang-Cheng , Mai Kevin , Lee Chien-Nan 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundExpanded genetic screening before conception or during prenatal care can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of heritable fetal diseases. This study aimed to provide a large cohort to evaluate the significance of expanded carrier screening and to consolidate the role of expanded genetic screening in prenatal care.MethodsThis multicentre, retrospective cohort study was conducted between 31 December 2019 and 21 July 2022. A screening panel containing 302 genes and next-generation sequencing were used for the evaluation. The patients were referred from obstetric clinics, infertility centres and medical centres. Genetic counsellors conducted consultation for at least 15 min before and after screening.ResultsA total of 1587 patients were screened, and 653 pairs were identified. Among the couples who underwent the screening, 62 (9.49%) had pathogenic variants detected on the same genes. In total, 212 pathogenic genes were identified in this study. A total of 1173 participants carried at least one mutated gene, with a positive screening rate of 73.91%. Among the pathogenic variants that were screened, the gene encoding gap junction beta-2 (GJB2) exhibited the highest prevalence, amounting to 19.85%.ConclusionNext-generation sequencing carrier screening provided additional information that may alter prenatal obstetric care by 9.49%. Pan-ethnic genetic screening and counselling should be suggested for couples of fertile age.
Do lower limb motor-evoked potentials predict walking outcomes post-stroke?
Authors: Smith Marie-Claire , Scrivener Benjamin J , Stinear Cathy M 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundThis observational study examined whether lower limb (LL) motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) 1 week post-stroke predict recovery of independent walking, use of ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) or walking aid, at 3 and 6 months post-stroke.MethodsNon-ambulatory participants were recruited 5 days post-stroke. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to determine tibialis anterior MEP status and clinical assessments (age, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), ankle dorsiflexion strength, LL motricity index, Berg Balance Test) were completed 1 week post-stroke. Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), use of AFO and walking aid were assessed 3 months and 6 months post-stroke. MEP status, alone and combined with clinical measures, and walking outcomes at 3 and 6 months were analysed with Pearson χ2and multivariate binary logistic regression.ResultsNinety participants were included (median age 72 years (38–97 years)). Most participants (81%) walked independently (FAC ≥ 4), 17% used an AFO, and 49% used a walking aid 3 months post-stroke with similar findings at 6 months. Independent walking was better predicted by age, LL strength and Berg Balance Test (accuracy 92%, 95% CI 85% to 97%) than MEP status (accuracy 73%, 95% CI 63% to 83%). AFO use was better predicted by NIHSS and MEP status (accuracy 88%, 95% CI 79% to 94%) than MEP status alone (accuracy 76%, 95% CI 65% to 84%). No variables predicted use of walking aids.ConclusionsThe presence of LL MEPs 1-week post-stroke predicts independent walking at 3 and 6 months post-stroke. However, the absence of MEPs does not preclude independent walking. Clinical factors, particularly age, balance and stroke severity, more strongly predict independent walking than MEP status. LL MEP status adds little value as a biomarker for walking outcomes.
Selection of indicators reporting response rate in pharmaceutical trials for systemic lupus erythematosus: preference and relative sensitivity
Authors: Tian Jingru , Kang Shuntong , Zhang Dingyao , Huang Yaqing , Yao Xu , Zhao Ming , Lu Qianjin 
Published: October 2023

ObjectiveSLE is a common multisystem autoimmune disease with chronic inflammation. Many efficacy evaluation indicators of randomised clinical trials (RCTs) for SLE have been proposed but the comparability remains unknown. We aim to explore the preference and comparability of indicators reporting response rate and provide basis for primary outcome selection when evaluating the efficacy of SLE pharmaceutical treatment.MethodsWe systematically searched three databases and three registries to identify pharmacological intervention-controlled SLE RCTs. Relative discriminations between indicators were assessed by the Bayesian hierarchical linear mixed model.Results33 RCTs met our inclusion criteria and we compared eight of the most commonly used indicators reporting response rate. SLE Disease Activity Index 4 (SLEDAI-4) and SLE Responder Index 4 were considered the best recommended indicators reporting response rate to discriminate the pharmacological efficacy. Indicator preference was altered by disease severity, classification of drugs and outcome of trials, but SLEDAI-4 had robust efficacy in discriminating ability for most interventions. Of note, BILAG Index-based Combined Lupus Assessment showed efficacy in trials covering all-severity patients, as well as non-biologics RCTs. The British Isles Lupus Assessment Group response and Physician’s Global Assessment response were more cautious in evaluating disease changes. Serious adverse event was often applied to evaluate the safety and tolerability of treatments rather than efficacy.ConclusionsThe impressionable efficacy discrimination ability of indicators highlights the importance of flexibility and comprehensiveness when choosing primary outcome(s). As for trials that are only evaluated by SLEDAI-4, attention should be paid to outcome interpretation to avoid the exaggeration of treatment efficacy. Further subgroup analyses are limited by the number of included RCTs.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42022334517.
Anti-SMN autoantibodies in mixed connective tissue disease are associated with a severe systemic sclerosis phenotype
Authors: El Kamouni Hajar , S. Jalaledin Darya , Albert Alexandra , Hoa Sabrina , Vo Caroline , Bourré-Tessier Josiane , Rich Éric , Goulet Jean-Richard , Koenig Martial , Pérez Gemma , Choi May Y. , Troyanov Yves , Satoh Minoru , Fritzler Marvin J. , Senécal Jean-Luc , Landon-Cardinal Océane 
Published: October 2023

ObjectivesThe survival of motor neuron (SMN) complex has an essential role in the assembly of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (RNP). Recent reports have described autoantibodies (aAbs) to the SMN complex as novel biomarkers in anti-U1RNP+ myositis patients. The aim of this study was to compare phenotypic features of anti-U1RNP+ mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) patients with and without anti-SMN aAbs.MethodsA retrospective MCTD cohort was studied. Addressable laser bead immunoassay was used to detect specific anti-SMN aAbs with <300 mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) as normal reference range, 300–999 MFI as low-titre and ≥1000 MFI as high-titre positivity. Comparison of clinical features between anti-SMN+ and anti-SMN− subgroups used two-tailed Fisher’s exact test, and logistic regression analyses.ResultsSixty-six patients were included. Median age at MCTD diagnosis was 40.6 years, and duration of follow-up was 12 years. Based on the highest available titre, 39 (59%) were anti-SMN+: 10 (26%) had low titre and 29 (74%) had high titre. Anti-SMN+ patients had a higher frequency of fingertip pitting scars (anti-SMN+ 23% vs anti-SMN− 4%, p=0.04), lower gastrointestinal (GI) involvement (26% vs 4%, p=0.04), and myocarditis (16% vs 0%, p=0.04). The combined outcome of pitting scars and/or lower GI involvement and/or myositis and/or myocarditis was highest among high-titre anti-SMN+ patients: adjusted OR 7.79 (2.33 to 30.45, p=0.002).ConclusionsAnti-SMN aAbs were present in 59% of our MCTD cohort. Their presence, especially at high-titres, was associated with a severe systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) phenotype including myositis, myocarditis and lower GI involvement.
Phenotyping by persistent inflammation in systemic sclerosis associated interstitial lung disease: a EUSTAR database analysis
Authors: Guler Sabina , Sarbu Adela-Cristina , Stalder Odile , Allanore Yannick , Bernardino Vera , Distler Joerg , Gabrielli Armando , Hoffmann-Vold Anna-Maria , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Müller-Ladner Ulf , Ortiz-Santamaria Vera , Rednic Simona , Riccieri Valeria , Smith Vanessa , Ullman Susanne , Walker Ulrich A , Geiser Thomas K , Distler Oliver , Maurer Britta , Kollert Florian 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundSystemic sclerosis (SSc) is a heterogeneous disease with frequently associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). We aimed to determine the prognostic potential of phenotyping patients with SSc and SSc-ILD by inflammation and to describe disease trajectories stratified by inflammation and immunosuppressive treatment.MethodsPatients from the European Scleroderma Trials and Research (EUSTAR) group cohort were allocated to persistent inflammatory, intermediate and non-inflammatory phenotypes if C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were ≥5 mg/L at ≥80%, at 20–80% and at <20% of visits, respectively. Cox regression models were used to analyse mortality risk and mixed effect models to describe trajectories of FVC and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) %-predicted stratified by inflammation and immunosuppressive treatment.Results2971 patients with SSc and 1171 patients with SSc-ILD had at least three CRP measurements available. Patients with SSc-ILD with a persistent inflammatory phenotype had a 6.7 times higher risk of mortality within 5 years compared with those with a persistent non-inflammatory phenotype (95% CI 3 to 15). In the inflammatory phenotype, FVC %-predicted was declining without (−1.11 (95% CI −2.14 to −0.08)/year), but stable with immunosuppressive treatment (−0.00 (95% CI −0.92 to 0.92)/year). In the non-inflammatory phenotype, patients with and without immunosuppressive treatment had a significant decline in FVC %-predicted, which was more pronounced in those with immunosuppressive treatment (−1.26 (95% CI −1.87 to −0.64) and −0.84 (95% CI −1.35 to −0.33)/year, respectively).ConclusionsPhenotyping by persistent inflammation provides valuable prognostic information, independent of demographics, disease duration, cutaneous subtype, treatment and SSc-ILD severity. The findings from this study support early immunosuppressive treatment in patients with SSc-ILD with persistent inflammation.
Curvature tensor in discrete gravity
Authors: Chamseddine Ali H. , Malaeb Ola , Najem Sara 
Published: October 2023

AbstractWe study numerically the curvature tensor in a three-dimensional discrete space. Starting from the continuous metric of a three-sphere, we transformed it into a discrete space using three integers $$n_1, n_2$$

n
1

,

n
2

, and $$n_3$$

n
3

. The numerical results are compared with the expected values in the continuous limit. We show that as the number of cells in the lattice increases, the continuous limit is recovered.
Conservation gaps identification through patterns of species richness established from species niche models of mammals in a sector of Chaco Seco ecoregion
Authors: Rivas Federico Fernando , Speciale María Florencia 
Published: October 2023

The identification of biodiversity conservation priority sectors that are not formally protected, have an essential part of conservation strategies and goals at global and local scale. Ecological niche modeling is a relevant and important tool for analysis and distribution of species, also is used to determine the biodiversity patterns through the regions. The main objective of this work was to identify the sites with high biodiversity patterns in a sector of Chaco Seco ecoregion that haven’t been protected with environmental legislation. Through biodiversity sampling with foot transects, camera traps and interviews, it was registered the presence of large and medium mammals in Santiago del Estero Province. Biodiversity pattern maps were then developed from potential distribution models (SDMs) of 5 mammalian species selected for being relevant for conservation. To define zones that could be characterized like conservation gaps, pattern maps were contrasted with protected areas layers and legal schemes of land use planning and also, protected forest. For the SDM, 171 records were used, 43 for M. gouazoubira, 40 for P. concolor, 20 for M. trydactila, 43 on P. tajacu and 25 on C. wagneri. Three models were used to make the biodiversity patterns, one of these, Fuzzy union, were used for the subsequent calculation. The total area of high biodiversity increases to 39.486 km², which represents the 29% of provincial area. In consequence the 81% remaining represents the conservation gaps areas for that sector of the ecoregion.
The Yogi Physician: The Conscious Self and the Yoga of Karmic Observation in Early Ayurvedic Medicine
Authors: Robertson Matthew I. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
This article develops historical links between early Ayurveda and yoga in light of the claim that a physician can enter the inner self (antarātman) of a patient “in the manner of a yogi.” Ayurveda’s idiomatically yoga-based analysis of the inner self is detailed, illustrating a concern with the karma, consciousness, perceptual habits, and mental clarity of patients. Diagnosing these most subtle aspects of a patient is shown to require the development of the penetrative power of “true awareness,” which physicians get by yogic means. It is argued that the ideal physician is a yogi who evidences the existence of a yogic paradigm of karmic observation. Textual parallels indicate that this paradigm was held in common among Ayurvedic and Buddhist social circles especially. Yoga, it is argued, afforded the perceptual “physics” for a karmic cosmos, while its methods of perceptual mastery afforded the expansive vision required to observe it properly.
Religiosity and Spirituality in Linda Mary Montano’s Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Pyun Kyunghee 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
This paper presents a close-up reading of American artist and ex-member of the Maryknoll Sisters, Linda Mary Montano. Her performance in the video work, Anorexia Nervosa (1981) is analyzed in view of contemporary performance and video art by women artists in the second wave feminism. By positioning the experience of self-starving in the Catholic tradition of holy fasting and asceticism of self-starvation, this paper regards Montano’s video work as a continuation of Catholic women utilizing social agencies. Montano’s own performance in Anorexia Nervosa can be seen as one of many forms of keeping the faith while exercising contemporary art with a mission of disrupting social boundaries and norms. Montano’s understanding of the body as a vehicle of performance art is still resonant with her religiosity of elevating self-starving to a miraculous intervention. Her mundane narrative of the extraordinary supports her view that her life is art; art is life.