bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pancreas fat content, insulin homeostasis and circulating endothelial microparticles in male essential hypertensive patients
Authors: Alfaro‐Lara Verónica , Muñoz‐Hernández Rocío , Giménez‐Miranda Luis , Beltrán‐Romero Luis , Castell‐Montsalve Francisco Javier , Stiefel Pablo 
Published: December 2022

AbstractThe pancreas fat content has been poorly investigated in essential hypertension. The authors aim to relate pancreas and liver fat content with parameters measuring insulin resistance, beta‐cell function and also with markers of endothelial dysfunction and platelet or endothelial cell destruction. The authors studied a group of 40 male hypertensive patients with well‐controlled blood pressure, maintaining a stable weight, and having not changed their medication during the last year. Pancreas fat content was correlated with HOMA‐IR (r = .616, p < .001), HOMA‐S (r = −.439, p < .005), beta cell function parameter (r = .457, p < .005), and QUICKI (r = .412, p < .01), whereas liver fat was not patients in the highest quartile of pancreas fat content had more circulating endothelial microparticles than patients in the other quartiles (median 129 [94.3–200] vs. 60.9 [49.4–88.8], p = .002). However, patients in the highest quartile of the pancreas fat content distribution did not differ from the lowest in hyperemic response after ischemia nor circulating platelet microparticles count. Liver fat content was not related to any of the parameters studied. In a multivariate stepwise binary logistic regression analysis (Wald Method) circulating endothelial microparticles remain significantly associated with pancreas fat content after adjusting for confounding factors, such as tobacco, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, or metabolic syndrome. Our results reflect that in essential hypertension, pancreas fat content is superior to liver fat to study beta‐cell functionality and insulin resistance. Moreover, the authors described for the first time that pancreas fat content is related to endothelial cell destruction. Further studies are needed to confirm this point.
Single‐cell RNA‐seq of Lotus japonicus provide insights into identification and function of root cell types of legume
Authors: Sun Zhanmin , Jiang Sanjie , Wang Dan , Li Linxia , Liu Boxin , Ran Qifan , Hu Lizhen , Xiong Junbo , Tang Yixiong , Gu Xiaofeng , Wu Yanmin , Liang Zhe 
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACTThe roots of legume plant play a crucial role in nitrogen fixation. However, the transcriptomes of different cell types of legume root and their functions remain largely unknown. Here, we performed single‐cell RNA sequencing and profiled more than 22,000 single cells from root tips of Lotus japonicus, a model species of legume. We identified seven clusters corresponding to seven major cell types, which were validated by in situ hybridization. Further analysis revealed regulatory programs including phytohormone and nodulation associated with specific cell types, and revealed conserved and diverged features for the cell types. Our results represent the first single‐cell resolution transcriptome for legume root tips and a valuable resource for studying the developmental and physiological functions of various cell types in legumes.
Small Business Equity Returns: Empirical Evidence from the Business Credit Card Securitization Market
Authors: FLECKENSTEIN MATTHIAS , LONGSTAFF FRANCIS A. 
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACTWe present a new approach for estimating small business equity returns. This approach applies the Merton (1974) credit model to the returns on entrepreneurial business credit card debt securitizations and solves for the implied equity returns for the small businesses owned by the cardholders. The estimated small business equity premium is 10.74%. The standard deviation of small business equity returns is 56.37%. We validate the methodology by applying it to investment‐grade corporate bonds and recovering a public equity premium of 6.17%.
A cybernetic theory of autism: Autism as a consequence of low trait plasticity
Authors: Rogers Matthew A. , Elison Jed T. , Blain Scott D. , DeYoung Colin G. 
Published: December 2022

AbstractObjectiveAccording to Cybernetic Big Five Theory (CB5T), personality traits reflect variation in the parameters of evolved cybernetic mechanisms, and extreme manifestations of these traits correspond to a risk for psychopathology because they threaten the organism's ability to pursue its goals effectively. Our theory of autism as a consequence of low Plasticity extends CB5T to provide a cybernetic account of the origin of autistic traits. The theory argues that, because all psychological competencies are initially developed through exploration, typical development requires sensitivity to the incentive reward value of the unknown (i.e., the unpredicted). According to CB5T, motivation to explore the unknown is the core function underlying the metatrait Plasticity, the shared variance of Extraversion and Openness/Intellect. This theory makes predictions regarding the downstream developmental consequences of early low Plasticity, and each prediction maps well onto autistic symptomatology.MethodWe surveyed 387 people. Measures included the Autism Quotient (AQ) scale and International Personality Item Pool items that are indicators of Plasticity and Stability.ResultsThe association between AQ and Plasticity was β = −.64.ConclusionA strong negative correlation between Plasticity and AQ suggests ASD may be closely linked to a low sensitivity to the incentive reward value of the unknown.
Impact of parental health literacy on the health outcomes of children with chronic disease globally: A systematic review
Authors: Zaidman Elaine A , Scott Karen M , Hahn Deirdre , Bennett Patricia , Caldwell Patrina HY 
Published: December 2022

AimHealth literacy is the ability to understand and interpret health information and navigate the health‐care system. Low health literacy is associated with poorer health knowledge and disease management, increased chronic illness, underutilisation of preventative health services and increased hospitalisations. The aim of the study is to review the available literature on the relationship between parental health literacy and health outcomes for children with chronic disease in high‐income countries (HIC) and low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC).MethodsWe systematically searched Medline, EMBASE and Web of Science, and assessed study quality using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. We reviewed all relevant studies, and identified themes using thematic analysis.ResultsOf 1167 studies assessed, 49 were included in the review. All studies were of adequate quality. Twenty‐two were from LMIC and 27 from HIC. Six themes were identified: Parental health literacy, parental education, socio‐economic conditions, identity and culture, family factors, and health behaviours. In both HIC and LMIC, lower parental health literacy was associated with poorer child health outcomes. Disease‐specific knowledge was found in a number of papers to directly impact parent health behaviour and child health outcomes, and may mitigate the effects of low parental health literacy.ConclusionThere is a clear link between parental health literacy, health behaviour and health outcomes for children with chronic disease. Disease‐specific knowledge as a target for health‐care interventions holds promise for application in low‐resourced settings with parents (particularly mothers) who have lower health literacy, where disease‐specific education may improve child health outcomes, although more research is required to determine how we can best facilitate these programmes.
The influence of supragastric belching severity on esophageal acid exposure and motility
Authors: Sergeev Ilia , Velosa Monica , Mardare Roxana , Yazaki Etsuro , Sifrim Daniel 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBackgroundSupragastric belching (SGB) is a phenomenon where air is rapidly sucked from the pharynx into the esophagus and immediately expelled through abdominal straining. It is considered a behavior disorder and is increasingly recognized not only in patients with excessive belching, but also in those with reflux‐like symptoms. Increased prevalence of esophageal hypomotility and increased acid exposure were previously reported in small cohorts of SGB patients. We aimed to clarify the impact of SGB on motility, reflux, and acid exposure in a large cohort of SGB patients.MethodsIn a single‐center database study, we searched for patients with pathological SGB. MII‐pH and Manometry tracings were manually re‐evaluated in all patients. Demographic, clinical, motility, reflux, and SGB‐related data were gathered.Key ResultsThree hundred and forty‐eight patients were included. Heartburn, belching, and regurgitation were the most common symptoms. Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) was found in 27% of patients. SGB related to 47% of all reflux and to 53.6% of acid reflux events, and accounted for 27.3% of acid exposure time (AET). In those with severe SGB, 62% of acid reflux events and 46% of AET were SGB‐related.Conclusions & InferencesSupragastric belching is common, associated with higher incidence of IEM and is responsible for almost a third of esophageal acid burden. The impact of SGB is proportional to its severity. Diagnosis of SGB should be sought in patients with excessive belching and in patients with refractory reflux symptoms. Recognizing SGB and treating patients with behavioral therapy may alleviate acid exposure and improve quality of life.
Pollination biology of Aristolochia bianorii Sennen & Pau: promoting cross‐pollination but assuring reproductive success in island ecosystems
Authors: Alpuente N. , Miranda M. Á. , Cursach J. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Deceptive pollination has been reported in the genus Aristolochia, but the floral biology and pollination strategy of A. bianorii, an endemic of the Balearic Islands, have not yet been studied. Here, we investigated floral anthesis, mating system, pollinators and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by its flowers.
Flower buds were marked and monitored daily to define floral stages and their duration. Experimental bagging and hand‐pollination were performed to test for autonomous self‐pollination, induced self‐pollination and cross‐pollination. Flowers were collected to analyse the presence of entrapped pollinators. VOCs emitted by flowers were evaluated by means of solid phase microextraction followed by immediate GC–MS.
Anthesis lasted between 63 and 96 h, and the species exhibited autonomous self‐pollination with moderate inbreeding depression. Pollinators were mainly females of Oscinomorpha longirostris (Diptera; Chloropidae). The number of pollinators inside flowers was affected by floral stage and time of flowering. The most common VOCs were alkanes, oximes, esters, alkenes, cyclic unsaturated hydrocarbons, isocyanates, amides and carboxylic acids.
Aristolochia bianorii can set seed by autonomous self‐pollination, in contrast to other Aristolochia species, in which both protogyny and herkogamy prevent autonomous self‐pollination. However, the species may encourage cross‐pollination by attracting female chloropid flies though emission of floral scents that may mimic an oviposition site and, possibly, freshly killed true bugs (i.e. Heteroptera). In conclusion, A. bianorii promotes cross‐pollination, but delayed autonomous self‐pollination assures reproductive success in the putative absence of pollinators.
Galectin‐3 interacts with PD‐1 and counteracts the PD‐1 pathway‐driven regulation of T cell and osteoclast activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Pedersen Kathrine , Nielsen Morten Aagaard , Juul‐Madsen Kristian , Hvid Malene , Deleuran Bent , Greisen Stinne Ravn 
Published: December 2022

AbstractRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and bone erosions. The glycosylated programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) receptor plays an important role in regulating immune responses and maintaining tolerance. In this study, we focus on two features observed in RA: impaired PD‐1 signalling and Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) upregulation. We hypothesize that Gal‐3 binds PD‐1 and PD‐1 ligands, potentially contributing to impaired PD‐1 signalling. PD‐1 and Gal‐3 levels in RA synovial fluid (SF) and plasma were evaluated by ELISA. PD‐1 and Gal‐3 interaction was examined by Surface Plasmon Resonance and ELISA. PD‐1, PD‐L1 and Gal‐3 expression on mononuclear cells from SF and peripheral blood as well as fibroblast‐like synoviocytes were examined by flow cytometry. Effects of Gal‐3 and PD‐L1 on osteoclast formation was evaluated by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase assay. We show that Gal‐3 binds PD‐1 and PD‐L1. Results demonstrated high expression of PD‐1 and Gal‐3 on mononuclear cells, especially from SF. Gal‐3 inhibited PD‐1 signalling when PD‐L1 was present. Furthermore, a role of Gal‐3 in osteoclast formation was observed in vitro, both directly but also through PD‐1:PD‐L1 inhibition. Effects of Gal‐3 on the PD‐1 signalling axis are proposed to be inhibitory, meaning high Gal‐3 levels in the complex synovial microenvironment are not desirable in RA. Preventing Gal‐3's inhibitory role on PD‐1 signalling could, therefore, be a therapeutic target in RA by affecting inflammatory T cell responses and osteoclasts.
Developments in Regulating Outlet Valves
Authors: Hornsby G. J. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This paper covers briefly the step-by-step progress in the development of high-pressure regulating outlet valves, as experienced by the Bureau of Reclamation. The author describes the various designs of outlet valves now in use, points out some of the good and bad features of present design practice, and proposes some ways and means of preventing cavitation. The conclusions reached are confirmed by model tests. A new and radically different type of regulating outlet valve, which model tests indicate will be free from cavitation and will have unusually favorable stilling-pool characteristics, is described.
Results of Laboratory Embrittlement Testing of Boiler Waters
Authors: Straub F. G. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This paper reports the results of laboratory embrittlement testing of boiler waters as part of an investigation conducted under a cooperative agreement between the Utilities Research Commission, Inc., Chicago, Ill., and the Engineering Experiment Station, University of Illinois. The data presented have been released by permission of both institutions. The author briefly describes the testing apparatus and procedure. He then presents, in the form of curves, results of 1300 laboratory tests on power-plant boiler waters, completing the paper with a general discussion of the results.
Economic Development as a Challenge for “De Facto States”: Post-Conflict Dynamics and Perspectives in South Ossetia
Authors: Sebentsov A. B. , Karpenko M. S. , Gritsenko A. A. , Turov N. L. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The significance of economic factors in the emergence and development of “de facto states” remains insufficiently studied and debatable. This article deals with the case of South Ossetia, one of the six unrecognized republics that emerged in the post-Soviet space. Based on the study of statistical data, secondary sources and expert interviews with representatives of local authorities, business, and the academic community, the authors analyzed structural changes and the state of the economy of South Ossetia and views on development prospects in the context of state building. It has been shown that as a result of large-scale assistance from Russia, a structurally weak hyperservice economy has formed, whose key industries depend on government demand and Russian investments. Limited economic self-sufficiency, cross-border settlement of Ossetians and Georgians, as well as numerous family ties contribute to the emergence of a variety of cross-border practices (shuttle trade, smuggling, and peculiar payment systems) that reduce social tensions. The case of South Ossetia confirms that unrecognized status is not in itself an obstacle to economic development, but the lack of external legitimacy limits access to markets and creates difficulties for financial and trade transactions. As a result, Eurasian integration has become rather a source of problems for this republic, creating obstacles difficult to overcome for local businesses in trade with Russia, the only EAEU country that recognizes the Republic of South Ossetia as a sovereign state. As a result, economic problems, along with security issues, serve as a key argument for South Ossetia’s support for the idea of joining the republic to Russia.
Decreased macular deep capillary plexus is associated with functional progression of normal tension glaucoma patients with unilateral visual field loss
Authors: Lin Sigeng , Shang Xiao , Wang Xiaoyan , Chu Xizhong , Hu Chengju , Si Yuqing , Chen De-fu , Zhou Weihe , Kong Yu Xiang George , Liang Yuanbo 
Published: December 2022

PurposeTo investigate whether quantitative optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) metrics of the superficial/deep macular retina are associated with the development of visual field (VF) loss in the fellow eyes of normal tension glaucoma (NTG) patients with unilateral VF loss.MethodsA longitudinal study was conducted in which 61 eyes with normal VF (mean VF mean deviation −0.7±1.6 dB) from 61 NTG patients were included. All subjects underwent OCTA imaging, spectral-domain-OCT imaging and VF testing. OCTA metrics of superficial capillary plexus and deep capillary plexus (DCP) in the macular region were measured. Relationships between baseline OCTA metrics, demographics and ocular characteristics and the risk of VF glaucoma progression were analysed with a Cox proportional hazards model.ResultsDuring a mean follow-up of 38 months, 11 fellow eyes (18.0%) with normal VF at baseline were determined to have VF progression, while 21.3% of affected eyes had VF progression. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, decreased baseline DCP in the fellow eyes was significantly associated with future VF progression (HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.73, p=0.031).ConclusionDecreased DCP was associated with a higher risk of developing VF damage in NTG patients with unilateral VF loss. Assessments of DCP may help improve the evaluation of the risk of functional deterioration in fellow eyes with an initially normal VF.
Quantitative analysis of choriocapillaris flow deficits and choroidal thickness in children with Marfan syndrome
Authors: Ng Kityee , Xu Pusheng , Jin Guangming , Cheng Weijing , Luo Xiaoling , Ding Xiaoyan , Zheng Danying , Liu Yizhi 
Published: December 2022

PurposeTo evaluate the characteristics and associated factors of choroidal thickness (ChT) and choriocapillaris flow deficit percentage (CC FD%) in children with Marfan syndrome (MFS).MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study. The ChT of the subfoveal area and other areas 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 mm away from the fovea were assessed. The CC FD% of quadrant and circular regions with diameters of 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mm were assessed with 3×3 mm macular choriocapillaris images. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and cardiac function factor such as Z score were measured to analyse the associations with ChT and CC FD%.Results51 MFS children and 50 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Compared with the healthy controls, the ChT in the MFS group was thinner in the subfoveal area, temporal 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mm (all p<0.001). The CC FD% was higher in circle 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mm (all p<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that CC FD% in the circle 2.5 mm when the Z score ≥2 was associated with BCVA (β=9.08 (95% CI 3.96 to 14.20); p=0.005) and Z score (β=4.19 (95% CI 1.28 to 12.00); p=0.012).ConclusionsThinner ChT and a higher CC FD% were observed in children with MFS, and an increased CC FD% in circle 2.5 mm was significantly associated with worse BCVA and cardiac function. These findings may help identify future visual impairment and early cardiac events in MFS children.
School-based Hygiene Intervention to PreventHelicObacter Pyloriinfection among childrEn (SHIP HOPE): protocol for a cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zhou Mengge , Zeng Yuhong , Xi Yu'e , Luo Sitong , Qi Jing , Zhao Guanqi , Sun Yamei , Guo Yang , Cheng Feng 
Published: December 2022

IntroductionHelicobacter pyloriinfection rates are high in China and worldwide, and maintaining good hygiene is effective in preventingH. pyloriinfection. Childhood is a critical stage for developing good hygiene practices. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore whether a comprehensive hygiene intervention can preventH. pyloriinfection in primary schools in China.Methods and analysisThe School-based Hygiene Intervention to PreventHelicObacter Pyloriinfection among childrEn study is a cluster-randomised controlled trial, which will include approximately 2400 children in grades 2–4 from 60 classes in 10 primary schools of Linqu County, Shandong Province. Schools will be randomly assigned (1:1) via a computer-generated list, to receive either comprehensive hygiene intervention (intervention) or the usual health education lessons (control), with stratification by area (urban or rural). The interventions will include the following: (1) Children’s education: lessons and cartoon books designed to provide basic knowledge about hygiene,H. pylori, hand hygiene, diet and oral hygiene will be provided to children; (2) Caregiver’s education: children will be empowered to share hygiene-related knowledge with their caregivers as homework; caregivers will be also invited to the school for hygiene lessons; (3) School hygiene promotion: suggestions will be provided for improving the hygienic environment. Children in control schools will receive usual health education lessons according to the arrangements of each school. The primary outcome is the prevalence and incidence ofH. pyloriinfection among children at 1-year follow-up. The secondary outcomes areH. pyloriand hygiene knowledge, family eating customs and hygiene practices among children and their caregivers, as well as school absences owing to diarrhoea. Additionally, growth in children is set as an exploratory outcome. General linear mixed models will be used to analyse differences between the intervention and control schools.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval has been obtained from the Institution Review Board of Tsinghua University (No: 20220020). Written informed consent will be obtained from each child and one of their caregivers. The findings of this study will be actively disseminated through scientific publications and conference presentations.Trial registration numberChiCTR2200056191.