bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ockham on Memory and the Metaphysics of Human Persons
Authors: Brower Toland Susan 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This paper explores William Ockham's account of memory with a view to understanding its implications for his account of the nature and persistence of human beings. I show that Ockham holds a view according to which memory (i) is a type of self-knowledge and (ii) entails the existence of an enduring psychological subject. This is significant when taken in conjunction with his account of the afterlife. For, Ockham holds that during the interim state—namely, after bodily death, but prior to bodily resurrection—we retain and recall our embodied experiences. This entails that the subject of our embodied psychological states can survive in a disembodied state and continue to engage in characteristic rational activities—a claim that appears to run against Ockham's own commitment to a hylomorphic conception of human beings (as essentially material). A central aim of this paper is to explore the prospects for reconciling Ockham's account of interim memory with his account of human beings.
‘It’s a fragile open door’—enhancing COVID-19 vaccination rates in people receiving treatment for substance use disorder
Authors: Murnion Bridin , Carland Jane E , Jefferies Meryem , Au Michael , Tracy Marguerite 
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Background
People with substance use disorder are at high risk of harms from COVID-19 infection. Vaccine hesitancy is common in this population and compounds pre-existing barriers to accessing health care. A drug and alcohol service in Sydney, Australia introduced strategies to enhance COVID-19 vaccination in people receiving opioid agonist treatment (OAT). We report vaccination outcomes and staff experiences of this.

Methods
This mixed methods study (i) retrospectively evaluated vaccine uptake in people accessing OAT and (ii) explored perceptions of staff who delivered vaccination interventions through surveys and semi-structured interviews.

Results
Of the 984 patients receiving OAT on 9 December 2021, 90.9% had received the first COVID-19 vaccination and 86.7% the second. Australia wide vaccination rates on that date were 93.1% and 88.7% for first and second doses, respectively. Staff commented that having a deep knowledge, understanding and connection with the patient group drove implementation and success of vaccination interventions. This was further supported by staff engagement with the vaccination interventions, and communication and sharing information, both between staff and with patients.

Conclusion
High rates of COVID-19 vaccination can be achieved in a vulnerable population. Engaged staff providing information and facilitating access to healthcare underpin this success.
Decision-making method for high-speed rail early warning system in complex earthquake situations
Authors: Tan Minjia , Hu Qizhou , Wu Yikai , Lin Juanjuan , Fang Xin 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
To address the shortcomings in decision-making methods for ground motion threshold warning models in high-speed rail earthquake early warning systems (HSREEWs), we propose a dual judgement method and corresponding early warning process for earthquake early warning decisions based on joint peak ground acceleration (PGA) and complex earthquake environmental risk evaluation (ERE) values. First, we analyse the characteristics of four complex earthquake environments based on the characteristics of high-speed rail (HSR) operating environments. Second, we establish an earthquake environmental risk evaluation index system and propose an adversarial interpretive structure modelling method-based complex earthquake situation evaluation model (AISM-based ESEM). The AISM method firstly evaluates the proximity by the TOPSIS (technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution) method, then effectively rank targets with fuzzy attributes through opposite hierarchical extraction rules without sacrificing system functionality. Since PGA can reflect the current size of earthquake energy, combining PGA thresholds with ESEM-derived values of ERE can effectively determine the risk status of each train and make decisions on the most appropriate alarm form and control measures for that status. Finally, case analysis results under the background of Wenchuan Earthquake show that the new early warning decision-making method accurately assesses environmental risks in affected areas and provides corresponding warning levels as a supplement to existing HSREEWs warning models.
A missense mutation in zinc finger homeobox‐3 (ZFHX3) impedes growth and alters metabolism and hypothalamic gene expression in mice
Authors: Nolan Patrick M. , Banks Gareth , Bourbia Nora , Wilcox Ashleigh G. , Bentley Liz , Moir Lee , Kent Lee , Hillier Rosie , Wilson Dana , Barrett Perry , Dumbell Rebecca 
Published: September 2023

AbstractA protein altering variant in the gene encoding zinc finger homeobox‐3 (ZFHX3) has recently been associated with lower BMI in a human genome‐wide association study. We investigated metabolic parameters in mice harboring a missense mutation in Zfhx3 (Zfhx3Sci/+) and looked for altered in situ expression of transcripts that are associated with energy balance in the hypothalamus to understand how ZFHX3 may influence growth and metabolic effects. One‐year‐old male and female Zfhx3Sci/+ mice weighed less, had shorter body length, lower fat mass, smaller mesenteric fat depots, and lower circulating insulin, leptin, and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF1) concentrations than Zfhx3+/+ littermates. In a second cohort of 9–20‐week‐old males and females, Zfhx3Sci/+ mice ate less than wildtype controls, in proportion to body weight. In a third cohort of female‐only Zfhx3Sci/+ and Zfhx3+/+ mice that underwent metabolic phenotyping from 6 to 14 weeks old, Zfhx3Sci/+ mice weighed less and had lower lean mass and energy expenditure, but fat mass did not differ. We detected increased expression of somatostatin and decreased expression of growth hormone‐releasing hormone and growth hormone‐receptor mRNAs in the arcuate nucleus (ARC). Similarly, ARC expression of orexigenic neuropeptide Y was decreased and ventricular ependymal expression of orphan G protein‐coupled receptor Gpr50 was decreased. We demonstrate for the first time an energy balance effect of the Zfhx3Sci mutation, likely by altering expression of key ARC neuropeptides to alter growth, food intake, and energy expenditure.
Control groups for HIV prevention efficacy trials: what does the future hold?
Authors: Janes Holly , Buchbinder Susan 
Published: September 2023

Purpose of review
Ending the HIV epidemic will require the development of additional effective immune-mediated and nonimmune-mediated means of HIV prevention. Evaluating novel interventions requires large, controlled trials demonstrating efficacy. Recent advances in the field of HIV prevention necessitate new approaches to efficacy trial design.

Recent findings
Three classes of efficacy trial designs are possible: standard of prevention-controlled trials, active-controlled trials, and active-controlled trials augmented with external control data. Recent experience with these approaches provides lessons on considerations around and success of the designs. Additional experience and development is needed for the augmented active-controlled trial design.

Summary
Efficacy trials of new HIV prevention interventions are feasible but require careful consideration, given the complexity and dynamic state of the prevention field. While standard of prevention-controlled efficacy trials are reasonable approaches for HIV vaccine and monoclonal antibody efficacy trials, trials of new antiretroviral agents may require active-controlled designs.
The Suitability of a Large Particle Hyaluronic Acid Filler for the Treatment of Temporal Hollowing
Authors: Nikolis Andreas , Enright Kaitlyn M. , Nguyen Quynh , Cotofana Sebastian 
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers may be manufactured to have distinctive physical properties that optimize their use for specific indications. Fillers manufactured with large gel calibration (particle size; HA-V) may be particularly suitable for volumizing large surface areas such as the temporal hollows.

OBJECTIVE
To investigate the safety and effectiveness of HA-V for the treatment of temporal hollows.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A prospective, open-label, single-cohort, clinical trial was conducted. Twenty-six women who presented with bilateral temporal hollows at baseline were recruited. All subjects received treatment with HA-V and were observed at 4 to 5 in-person visits over 16 weeks. Subjective and objective measures of safety and efficacy parameters were collected through 2- and 3-dimensional imagery, questionnaires/scales (i.e., subject satisfaction, global aesthetic improvement, temporal hollowing severity), and adverse event diaries.

RESULTS
To achieve optimal correction, the investigator used an average of 1.70 syringes per subject, per side. All treatments were performed using a bolus injection technique to place the product on the periosteum (bone) of the temporal region. Following optimal correction, all subjects (100%) displayed improvement in their global aesthetic appearance, and 25 of 26 subjects (96.15%) displayed ≥1 grade improvement on the temporal volume scale. Subject satisfaction was high, with 91.3% of subjects being satisfied with the appearance of their temporal regions following optimal correction.

CONCLUSION
In this pivotal trial, HA-V was evidenced to have an excellent safety profile and proven efficacy up to 16 weeks, making it a suitable HA filler for volumization of the temporal region.
Outcomes of Upper Lip Mohs Surgery Repairs Using Standardized Scar Scales With Particular Emphasis on Vermillion Border Involvement
Authors: Kromer Courtney M. , Jefferson Julie , Crowe David , Knackstedt Thomas 
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND
The lips are a common location for skin cancer, and thus, a common site for Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). As an important cosmetic and functional facial unit, MMS defects and reconstruction can affect patient perception on functional and aesthetic outcomes.

OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to compare aesthetic and functional outcomes after upper lip MMS between patients with vermillion sparing repairs (VSR) versus vermillion crossing repairs (VCR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Patients from a single institution from 2018 to 2022 undergoing MMS of the upper lip with linear or select flap repairs were included. Patients were assessed at a minimum of 6-week follow-up for self-assessment of functional and cosmetic outcomes, as well as physician assessment of scar cosmesis using validated Patient and Observed Scar Assessment Scale and Scar Cosmesis Assessment and Rating scale. The results were compared between VSR and VCR groups.

RESULTS
Forty-five patients were included in this study. No significant difference between patient assessment of functional and cosmetic outcome was identified between VSR and VCR.

CONCLUSION
Patient satisfaction with lip reconstruction can be high. Crossing the vermillion border does not affect patient assessment of aesthetic and functional results and should be considered if needed to optimize reconstructive outcomes.
Moderate LMWH Anticoagulation Improves Success Rate of Hind Limb Allotransplantation in Mice
Authors: Kern Barbara , Ashraf Muhammad-Imtiaz , Reutzel-Selke Anja , Mengwasser Joerg , Polenz Dietrich , Michaelis Edward , Pratschke Johann , Tullius Stefan G. , Witzel Christian , Sauer Igor M. 
Published: September 2023

Background:
The mouse hind limb model represents a powerful research tool in vascularized composite tissue allotransplantation, but its applicability is limited due to poor graft survival (62%–83%). Vascular thrombosis and massive hemorrhage are the major causes for these drop-outs. We hypothesize that because of better anticoagulation effect and lower risk of thrombocytopenia, application of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) will minimize vascular complications and enhance graft and animal survival.

Methods:
Fifty allogeneic hind limb transplantations were performed (C57BL/6 to DBA/2 mice) using five different anticoagulation protocols. Bleeding and thromboembolic events were recorded macroscopically by postoperative hemorrhage and livid discoloration of the graft, respectively. Graft perfusion and survival were monitored daily by capillary-refill-time of graft toes within 2–3 seconds. Vascular congestion and tissue necrosis were examined by histological evaluation of hematoxylin-eosin-stained tissue sections.

Results:
All transplantations were technically successful. Increase in thromboembolic events and a concomitant decrease in bleeding events were observed with the decreasing concentration of heparin in the perfusion solution. Although treatment of donor and recipient with low dose of LMWH could not reduce thromboembolic events, moderate dose effectively reduced these events. Compared with the poor outcome of graft perfusion with heparin alone, additional treatment of donor and recipient with low dose of LMWH improved graft and animal survival by 18%. Interestingly, animals treated with moderate dose of LMWH demonstrated 100% graft and animal survival.

Conclusions:
Treatment of donor and recipient mice with a moderate dose of LMWH prevents vascular complications and improves the outcome of murine hind limb transplants.
Fixation of the Compressive Dressing for Nipple-areola Complex Graft during Double Incision Chest Contouring Surgery for Assigned-female-at-birth Persons with Diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria: Sutures or Staples?
Authors: Wahlström Edvin , Tingbäck Maria , Georgas Konstantinos , Selvaggi Gennaro 
Published: September 2023

Background:
When transplanting skin grafts, a compressive dressing is usually used to hold the skin graft in place. Dressing fixation can be achieved with either sutures or staples. The purpose of this study was to compare sutures and staples as a method of fixation for the compressive dressings of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) grafts, during double incision chest contouring surgery in assigned-female-at-birth persons with diagnosis of gender dysphoria. The two methods of fixation were compared according to pain at removal, time consumption, difficulty of removal, costs, and sustainability.

Methods:
Forty patients were randomized to dressing fixation with either sutures or staples. Timing for dressing fixation during surgery and removing the dressing was measured. Pain during removal was measured using vNRS-11. Difficulty of removal was measured with VAS-100. Costs of materials were compared.

Results:
All NAC grafts survived, and no complications such as infection or bleeding occurred. Staples were significantly more painful to remove when compared to sutures [mean vNRS-11 2.98 (SD ± 2.43) versus 1.25 (SD ± 0.92), P < 0.001]. Fixation with staples was faster than fixation with sutures (5.3 versus 94.6 s). No difference in removal time was found. Nurses found staples easier to remove. Sutures were slightly less costly (18 SEK) compared to staples (30 SEK). Finally, sutures produce less material waste.

Conclusion:
Being that all other outcomes are similar or insignificant, the less-pain experienced at removal of sutures makes this the preferable method for fixation of the compressive dressing for NAC grafts during double incision chest contouring surgery.
Lately Diagnosed Acanthamoeba Keratitis Manifesting as an Intrastromal Corneal Abscess: A Case Report
Authors: Feizi Sepehr , Karjou Zahra , Esfandiari Hamed 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
A 42-year-old female contact lens wearer presented to a local emergency department with a 3-day history of decreased vision and ocular discomfort in her right eye. She was started on topical fluorometholone and oral acyclovir with initial diagnosis of herpes simplex keratitis. After 3 weeks of worsening symptoms, she was diagnosed with bacterial corneal ulcer and treated with levofloxacin eye drops every 2 hr. After 14 days of no improvement, she was referred to our clinic for further workup. Slitlamp examination demonstrated a solitary dense 3×3-mm infiltration involving anterior and central corneal stroma. The overlying epithelium was intact, and there was no subepithelial infiltration, radial perineuritis, keratic precipitates, or anterior chamber reaction. Corneal sensation was normal. Confocal microscopy and corneal biopsy were definitive for Acanthamoeba infection. The patient received polyhexamethylene biguanide 0.02% every 2 hr and oral ketoconazole 200 mg twice a day, which resulted in improvement in her signs and symptoms within 10 days. The medications were gradually tapered off over 5 months per clinical response. At the 9-month follow-up visit, the best-corrected visual acuity was 5/10 with a superficial central stromal scar at slitlamp examination. Acanthamoeba infection should be considered in contact lens wearers who present with intrastromal corneal abscess.
Identification and Management of a Novel PRDM5 Gene Pathologic Variant in a Family With Brittle Cornea Syndrome
Authors: Sklar Bonnie A. , Pisuchpen Phattrawan , Bareket Mor , Milman Tatyana , Eagle Ralph C. , Minor Jade , Procopio Rebecca , Capasso Jenina , Levin Alex V. , Hammersmith Kristin 
Published: September 2023

Purpose:
The aim of this study was to report a novel PRDM5 pathologic variant and ophthalmic findings in a family with 3 children diagnosed with brittle cornea syndrome (BCS). Histopathologic findings and surgical outcome of a child with BCS who underwent full-thickness corneal transplant are described.

Methods:
This is an observational case report of a nonconsanguineous Laotian family with 3 siblings diagnosed with BCS. Data collected included visual acuity, cycloplegic refraction, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, dilated fundus examination, corneal pachymetry, corneal topography, and general medical findings. Targeted testing through PRDM5 gene sequencing with copy number variation detection was conducted.

Results:
The 3 siblings included a 12-year-old boy and 8- and 6-year-old sisters, all of whom presented with myopia, blue-tinted sclerae, thin corneas, and variable corneal scarring. All 3 affected children were found to be homozygous for the PRDM5 gene variant c.1117_1123delinsTTTAATGCTTACAAATGTTTG p.Asp373Phefs*57. Coding sequences of PRDM5 and ZNF469 genes were sequenced in their entirety, and this was the only pathologic variant present in this family. The youngest affected sister developed persistent hydrops with severely decreased vision and underwent penetrating keratoplasty. Histopathology revealed severe corneal thinning, diffuse absence of Bowman layer, and ruptured Descemet membrane scrolls.

Conclusions:
Three siblings with clinical signs of BCS, including corneal thinning, myopia, and blue sclerae, were found to have a novel PRDM5 gene pathologic variant. This pathologic variant has not been previously reported, although 1 downstream nonsense pathologic variant has been reported as pathogenic. The similar phenotypes in all affected patients support the pathogenicity of this variant. Surgical management of BCS presents unique challenges due to severe tissue fragility.
Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels as a predictor for Alzheimer disease progression
Authors: Tsai Meng-Ju , Lin Yung-Shuan , Chen Chun-Yu , Lee Wei-Ju , Fuh Jong-Ling 
Published: September 2023

Background:
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and decreased peripheral levels of this protein are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. This study focuses on whether serum BDNF levels could be used as a predictor of AD progression.

Methods:
In this longitudinal observational study, we recruited cognition normal participants (N = 98) and AD (N = 442) from the Clinic at the Taipei Veterans General Hospital. We conducted a mini-mental status exam, a 12-item memory test, a categorical verbal fluency test, and a modified 15-item Boston naming test. A Serum BDNF level and apolipoprotein E (APOE) allele status were measured. The AD patients were followed prospectively. Based on the difference of MMSE scores, these patients were divided into fast decliners (decline ≥ 3/y) and slow decliners (MMSE decline < 3/y). Logistic regression was conducted to examine the impact of serum BDNF levels and other factor on the likelihood of AD patients being slow decliners. Pearson’s correlation was used to estimate the relationship between serum BDNF levels and the score of neuropsychological tests.

Results:
In a logistic regression model containing serum BDNF levels, age, sex, APOE4 carrier status, education levels, and baseline MMSE score, higher serum BDNF levels were associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline in the AD group. Serum BDNF levels positively correlated with the results of multiple neuropsychological tests.

Conclusion:
BDNF is a protective factor against AD progression and likely plays a role in establishing a link between AD pathology and clinical manifestations.
Validation of traditional Chinese version of Sheffield Profile for Assessment and Referral for Care Questionnaire in Taiwanese patients
Authors: Tsai Ming-Chieh , Chou Yun-Yun , Loh El-Wui , Lin Ashleigh Peng , Wu Hsueh-Chi , Hsiao Li-Sin , Chang Chia-Li , Chen Shu-Fen , Ahmedzai Sam H. , Tam Ka-Wai 
Published: September 2023

Background:
Holistic health care considers all aspects of patient care, namely the physical, psychological, spiritual, and social aspects. To assess which patient needs are unmet, a screening questionnaire covering the four aforementioned aspects is required. Therefore, the Sheffield Profile for Assessment and Referral for Care (SPARC), a multidimensional, self-reported questionnaire designed to screen patients regardless of diagnosis, was developed. This study developed a translated and validated traditional Chinese version of the SPARC for patients in Taiwan.

Methods:
The original English version of the SPARC was translated into a traditional Chinese version (SPARC-T) through forward-backward translation. Semistructured debriefing interviews were conducted with participants to evaluate the SPARC-T. The reliability and validity of the SPARC-T were assessed through Cronbach’s alpha coefficients and a correlation analysis conducted using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) questionnaire.

Results:
Fifty-three patients were enrolled from our hospital: 22 had cancer but the majority had nonmalignant chronic conditions. About internal consistency, the Cronbach’s alpha values for all domains of the SPARC-T were favorable. A correlation analysis of the SPARC-T and FACT-G revealed significant correlations for the domains of physical symptoms, independence and activity, family and social issues, sleep, and treatment issues; no significant correlation was identified for the “psychological issues” domain.

Conclusion:
This study revealed that the SPARC-T is an effective tool for screening Mandarin-speaking patients. Thus, it can be used in hospitals to holistically screen and identify the needs of patients to ensure they can receive appropriate professional support and holistic health care.