bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between child filaggrin mutations and maternal diet with the development of allergic diseases in children
Authors: Venter Carina , Palumbo Michaela P. , Sauder Katherine A. , Glueck Deborah H. , O’Mahony Liam , Yang Ivana , Davidson Elizabeth J. , Brough Helen A. , Holloway John W. , Fleischer David M. , Ben‐Abdallah Miriam , Dabelea Dana
Published: March 2022

Background

Filaggrin (FLG) loss‐of‐function mutations in children and maternal diet in pregnancy have been implicated in child allergy outcomes. This paper studies the questions: “do FLG mutations modify the effect of maternal diet on the odds of development of allergic diseases?” and “which factor leads to the highest rate of diagnosis allergic diseases over time, maternal diet, or FLG mutations?”.

Methods

Exact logistic regressions studied effect modification. Cox proportional hazard models compared the rate of allergic disease development in three groups (N = 624): (1) children with FLG mutation, (2) children without FLG mutation whose mothers did not eat an allergy preventive diet, and (3) children without FLG mutation whose mothers ate an allergy preventive diet. Maternal diet was classified using a validated index.

Results

Cox models showed the development of atopic dermatitis, asthma, and wheeze was significantly higher for children in group 1 versus 3 (HR = 2.40 [1.32, 4.37], HR = 2.29 [1.05, 4.97], and HR 2.10 [1.004, 4.38], respectively), but not significantly higher for children in group 1 versus 2 (HR = 1.30 [0.74, 2.29], HR = 1.27 [0.61, 2.63], and HR = 1.29 [0.65, 2.58], respectively). Development of allergic rhinitis was significantly higher for group 1 versus 2 and 3 (1 vs. 2: HR = 2.29 [1.10, 4.76]; 1 vs. 3: HR = 3.21 [1.46, 7.08]). There was no significant effect modification for any outcome.

Conclusion

Children with FLG mutation had similar risk of atopic dermatitis, asthma, and wheeze as children without an FLG mutation whose mothers did not eat an allergy preventive diet during pregnancy. Child FLG mutation did not modify the effect of maternal diet. The results suggest that maternal diet in pregnancy, a modifiable risk factor, could be a target for preventive interventions.
Consistency of remifentanil concentrations in propofol–Remifentanil infusions. A laboratory‐based study
Authors: Wylie Nicole , Beale Lee , Westley Ian
Published: March 2022

Background

There is increasing interest in two‐agent single‐pump intravenous infusions for anesthesia and sedation in pediatric patients. Propofol–remifentanil is one such mixture.

The poor miscibility of such admixtures when remifentanil is added in very high concentrations and when the admixtures are maintained in static conditions has been demonstrated; however, these physiochemical properties have not been examined in clinically relevant concentrations or settings.

Aim

To examine if propofol–remifentanil admixtures maintain consistent remifentanil delivery when mixed in clinically relevant remifentanil concentrations and subjected to the physical effects of an actively infusing, directly‐engaged syringe driver system with an extension line, as occurs when propofol–remifentanil is administered to a patient.

Methods

A propofol 10 mg.ml−1 combined with remifentanil 5 mcg.ml−1 solution was run using a Paedfusor® propofol target‐controlled infusion model for 10 kg and 20 kg children for 57 min at a target plasma concentration of 3 mcg.ml−1 through a 30 ml syringe, 180 cm minimum volume extension line, lever lock cannula, interlink injection site, and 22 g intravenous cannula into sample pots. Samples were taken at the completion of the loading bolus, 1 and 2 min postcompletion of loading bolus, and every 5 min thereafter. The remifentanil concentration in these samples was then assayed using chromatography.

Results

There was no difference in the concentration of remifentanil in the samples based on the duration of infusion to the endpoint of 1 h, or on the patient weight model used. The concentration remained 5 mcg.ml−1 +/− 0.5 mcg.ml−1 per sample. The measurement uncertainty for the assay at 0.5 mcg.ml−1 is +/− 0.2 mcg.ml−1.

Conclusion

The concentration of remifentanil was 5 mcg.ml−1 +/− 0.5 mcg.ml−1 and was consistent across 57 min of infusion, and two different pediatric weight profiles.
Risk of treatment discontinuation and psychiatric hospitalization associated with early dose reduction of antipsychotic treatment in first‐episode schizophrenia: A nationwide, health insurance data–based study
Authors: Joo Sung Woo , Kim Harin , Jo Young Tak , Ahn Soojin , Choi Young Jae , Choi Woohyeok , Park Soyeon , Lee Jungsun
Published: March 2022

Aim

We investigated the impact of early dose reduction of antipsychotic treatment on the risk of treatment discontinuation and psychiatric hospitalization in patients with first‐episode schizophrenia (FES).

Methods

The Health Insurance Review Agency database in South Korea was used to include 16 153 patients with FES. At 6 months from their diagnosis, the patients were categorized by the magnitude of dose reduction (no reduction, 0%–50%, and >50%). With a reference of no reduction, the risk of treatment discontinuation and psychiatric hospitalization associated with dose reduction in the 1‐year follow‐up period after the first 6 months was examined with a Cox proportional hazard ratio model stratified by the mean daily olanzapine‐equivalent dose in the first 3 months (<10, 10 to 20, >20 mg/day).

Results

A >50% dose reduction was associated with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation in all subgroups (<10 mg/day: hazard ratio [HR] =1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.24–1.67 [P <0.01]; 10–20 mg/day: HR =1.60, 95% CI =1.37–1.86 [P <0.01]; and >20 mg/day: HR =1.62, 95% CI =1.37–1.91 [P <0.01]). In the subgroup taking <10 mg/day, an association of 0%–50% dose reduction with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation was observed (HR =1.20, 95% CI =1.09–1.31; P <0.01). A > 50% dose reduction was associated with increased risk of psychiatric hospitalization only in the subgroup taking <10 mg/day (HR =1.48, 95% CI =1.21–1.80; P <0.01).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that an above certain dose of antipsychotic drugs is required to prevent psychiatric hospitalization, and extensive dose reduction of antipsychotic drugs could result in a higher risk of treatment discontinuation.
Atypical functional connectivity during rest and task‐related dynamic alteration in young children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: An analysis using the phase‐locking value
Authors: Chen I‐Chun , Chang Che‐Lun , Chang Meng‐Han , Ko Li‐Wei
Published: March 2022

Aim

The study investigated the electroencephalography (EEG) functional connectivity (FC) profiles during rest and tasks of young children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and typical development (TD).

Methods

In total, 78 children (aged 5–7 years) were enrolled in this study; 43 of them were diagnosed with ADHD and 35 exhibited TD. Four FC metrics, coherence, phase‐locking value (PLV), pairwise phase consistency, and phase lag index, were computed for feature selection to discriminate ADHD from TD.

Results

The support vector machine classifier trained by phase‐locking value (PLV) features yielded the best performance to differentiate the ADHD from the TD group and was used for further analysis. In comparing PLVs with the TD group at rest, the ADHD group exhibited significantly lower values on left intrahemispheric long interelectrode lower‐alpha and beta as well as frontal interhemispheric beta frequency bands. However, the ADHD group showed higher values of central interhemispheric PLVs on the theta, higher‐alpha, and beta bands. Regarding PLV alterations within resting and task conditions, left intrahemispheric long interelectrode beta PLVs declined from rest to task in the TD group, but the alterations did not differ in the ADHD group. Negative correlations were observed between frontal interhemispheric beta PLVs and the Disruptive Behavior Disorder Rating Scale as rated by teachers.

Conclusions

These results, which complement the findings of other sparse studies that have investigated task‐related brain FC dynamics, particularly in young children with ADHD, can provide clinicians with significant and interpretable neural biomarkers for facilitating the diagnosis of ADHD.
Less Like Magic, More Like a Chore: How Sex for the Purpose of Pregnancy Becomes a Third Shift for Women in Heterosexual Couples*1
Authors: Brown Eliza
Published: March 2022

Sexual intimacy characterized by desire is a critical component of the cultural ideal of successful marriage in the contemporary United States. How, then, does the experience of sexual intimacy in committed relationships change when its primary purpose is to promote conception? Through in‐depth interviews with 52 women married to men in the United States who recently attempted—and often struggled—to conceive through sexual intercourse with their spouses, this study finds that sex for the purpose of pregnancy becomes a highly rationalized project in which participants attempt to perfect their timing and promote the best chance for conception. In these married heterosexual couples, women manage the project of sex for the purpose of pregnancy and dictate to their husbands when they need to have sex. Using the third shift as a theoretical framework, this article demonstrates how sex for pregnancy becomes a gendered chore involving emotion work, cognitive labor, and body work. This research contributes to our understanding of household labor, sexual intimacy, and reproduction.
Spatiotemporal Variation in Armed Group Recruitment Among Former Members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam1
Authors: Meier Larissa Daria
Published: March 2022

Drawing from life history accounts of 30 former members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), this study analyses spatiotemporal variation in recruitment patterns. It demonstrates how shifts in the compositions of territorial control result in and intersect with changes in the recruitment strategies employed by the LTTE and the levels and forms of indiscriminate violence that respondents were exposed to. The results generate three space and time‐specific recruitment trajectories that my interviewees followed to join the LTTE: political resentment, personal victimization, and military socialization. Paying attention to spatiotemporal shifts in recruitment patterns is imperative to better capture the differing recruitment logics operating at different stages of an armed conflict, as well as to improve scholarly understanding of why and how armed groups change their recruitment tactics.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Effect of Annular Combustor Design on Thermal Uniformity Jet in Crossflow
Authors: Selim Osama M. , Al Hamad Saif , Amano Ryoichi S.
Published: March 2022

Non-uniformity of the exit flow temperature represents one of the significant damages to gas-turbine components, particularly turbine blades. This may occur in the course of gas-turbine operation. This paper aims to provide passive techniques by modifying the combustor design rather than changing the flow parameters to improve the thermal uniformity and turbine blades to reduce thermal stresses and increase turbine blades’ life span. An acceptable agreement between the numerical and experimental results has been achieved, and the agreement includes the velocity and temperature profile. Four different angles have been tested numerically and experimentally with a maximum error of 5% at two different Reynolds numbers. Designing the outer combustor surface with a 45-deg angle bend can give a more uniform temperature distribution of 37% higher than the basic design with only a 0.5% higher pressure drop.
Methanol/Ethanol/Butanol-Gasoline Blends Use in Transportation Engine—Part 1: Combustion, Emissions, and Performance Study
Authors: Singh Akhilendra Pratap , Sonawane Utkarsha , Agarwal Avinash Kumar
Published: March 2022

Primary alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, and butanol have exhibited excellent potential as possible alternative fuels for spark ignition (SI) engines because they are renewable, cleaner, and safer to store and transport. However, it is important to investigate the technical feasibility of adapting these primary alcohols in existing SI engines. In this research, a multi-point port fuel injection (MPFI) system equipped SI engine was used for assessing and comparing the combustion, performance, and emission characteristics of various alcohol-gasoline blends (gasohols) vis-à-vis baseline gasoline. The experiments were performed at different engine loads at rated engine speed. Experimental results exhibited relatively superior combustion characteristics of the engine fueled with gasohol than the baseline gasoline, especially at medium engine loads. Among different test fuels, the methanol-gasoline blend (GM10) exhibited relatively more stable combustion characteristics than the ethanol-gasoline blend (GE10) and butanol-gasoline blend (GB10). In this study, relatively superior engine performance of the gasohol-fueled engine was observed at all engine loads and speeds. GB10 exhibited the highest brake thermal efficiency (BTE), followed by GM10 amongst all test fuels. The effect of improved combustion was also reflected in the emission characteristics, which exhibited that GB10 emitted relatively lower carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HCs) than other test fuels. GB10 emitted relatively higher nitrogen oxides (NOx) than GM10 and GE10. Unregulated emission results exhibited that the engine fueled with gasohols emitted relatively lower sulfur dioxide (SO2), ammonia (NH3), and various other saturated and unsaturated HCs than the baseline gasoline. The GM10-fueled engine was relatively more effective in reducing unregulated emissions among all test fuels. This study concluded that methanol and butanol blending with gasoline resulted in superior engine performance and reduced harmful emissions in MPFI transport engines. This offered an excellent option to displace fossil fuels partially and reduce emissions simultaneously.
Tick species (Acari: Ixodida) in Cracow (southern Poland)—diversity of habitats and feeding in the urban environment
Authors: Kocoń Anna , Nowak-Chmura Magdalena , Siuda Krzysztof
Published: March 2022

Infrastructure development in cities allows for the expansion of many animal species into urban areas. This includes parasitic arthropods of humans and animals, such as ticks (Acari: Ixodida). Ticks overcome the barriers presented by urbanization and successfully function in these environments. After mosquitoes, ticks are considered the most harmful external parasites to humans. Besides the direct pathogenic effect on their hosts, ticks are particularly dangerous vectors of bacterial, viral, and protozoal infections. Cracow is an increasingly popular tourist destination in Poland. The green spaces and many tourist attractions of this historical town are frequented by residents, local tourists and international travellers—favourable conditions under which ticks can encounter human hosts and spread. Ticks not only occur in green areas and on hiking trails rich in vegetation, but can also thrive in built-up areas on e.g. the exteriors of buildings or inside attics. Five out of the nineteen tick species that occur in Poland have been registered in Cracow: two species representing the Argasidae family: Argas polonicus and Argas reflexus, two species in the Ixodidae family: Ixodes ricinus and Ixodes hexagonus and one species in the Amblyommidae family Dermacentor reticulatus. The aim of this study was to systematize the information available on the tick species that occur in Cracow and to show the diversity of the habitats and feeding environments available to these parasites. These findings can be used to educate urban residents and tourists, especially children and adolescents, about the areas where ticks occur and inform them of individual protection against tick bites. The aim of the study was to systematize the current state of knowledge of the mentioned tick species and to present the diversity of the habitat and feeding environment of these parasites in Cracow. It is also necessary to indicate to urban residents and tourists, especially children and adolescents, the areas where ticks are present as well as the principles of individual protection against tick attacks.
Measurement and modeling of the mechanical impedance of human mastoid and condyle
Authors: Nie Yafei , Wang Jie , Zheng Chengshi , Xu Jian , Li Xiaodong , Wang Yu , Zhong Bo , Cai Juanjuan , Sang Jinqiu
Published: March 2022

Bone conduction devices are used in audiometric tests, hearing rehabilitation, and communication systems. The mechanical impedance of the stimulated skull location affects the performance of the bone conduction devices. In the present study, the mechanical impedances of the mastoid and condyle were measured in 100 Chinese subjects aged from 22 to 67 years. The results show that the mastoid and condyle impedances within the same subject differ significantly and the impedance differences between subjects at the same stimulation position are mainly below the resonance frequency. The mechanical impedance of the mastoid is significantly influenced by age, and not related to gender or body mass index (BMI). While the mechanical impedance of the condyle is significantly affected by BMI, followed by gender, and not related to age. There are some differences in mastoid impedance between the Chinese and Western subjects. An analogy model predicts that the difference in mechanical impedance between the mastoid and condyle leads to a significant difference in the output force of the bone conduction devices. The results can be used to develop improved condyle and mastoid stimulators for the Chinese.
Timing of Preexercise Partial-Body Cryotherapy Exposure to Promote Jump Performance
Authors: Partridge Emily M. , Cooke Julie , McKune Andrew J. , Pyne David B.
Published: March 2022

Purpose:This study evaluated the effect of partial-body cryotherapy (PBC) exposure 1, 2, or 3 hours before maximal-effort jump performance, salivary enzyme concentration, perceived readiness, and well-being.Methods:Male team-sport players (N = 27; 24.2 [3.6] y; 91.5 [13.2] kg) were exposed to a blinded bout of PBC (−135°C [6°C]) and control (−59°C [17°C]) either 1, 2, or 3 hours prior to countermovement jumps. Passive saliva samples were collected to determine α-amylase concentration. Self-reported performance readiness and well-being questionnaires were completed using a 1–5 Likert scale.Results:Differences in the change in mean countermovement jump velocity and absolute power between PBC and control were unclear at 1 hour (+1.9% [5.3%],P = .149; +0.7% [10.6%],P = .919; mean difference [90% confidence limits]), 2 hours (+3.3% [2.7%],P = .196; +7.8% [7.4%],P = .169), and 3 hours postexposure (+3.1% [3.3%],P = .467; +0.7% [4.8%],P = .327). Salivary α-amylase concentration was elevated 15 minutes postexposure in the 1-hour (+61% [14%],P = .008) and 2-hour groups (+55% [12%],P = .013). The increase in self-reported performance readiness was higher after PBC (+2.4 [1.2] units,P = .046) in the 2-hour group and by 1.4 (1.1) units (P = .023) after 3 hours. Mental fatigue was favorably decreased 2 hours after PBC exposure (+0.5 [0.1],P = .041).Conclusions:An acute exposure of PBC elicits potentially favorable but unclear changes in countermovement jump performance. The PBC enhances salivary α-amylase concentration and perceived performance readiness, reduces mental fatigue, and could be useful in sport-specific training or competitions.
Perfect anomalous reflectors at optical frequencies
Authors: He Tao , Liu Tong , Xiao Shiyi , Wei Zeyong , Wang Zhanshan , Zhou Lei , Cheng Xinbin
Published: March 2022

Reflecting light to a predetermined nonspecular direction is an important ability of metasurfaces, which is the basis for a wide range of applications (e.g., beam steering/splitting and imaging). However, anomalous reflection with 100% efficiency has not been achieved at optical frequencies yet, because of losses and/or insufficient nonlocal control of light waves. Here, we propose an all-dielectric quasi–three-dimensional subwavelength structure, consisting of multilayer films and metagratings, to achieve perfect anomalous reflections at optical frequencies. A complex multiple scattering process was stimulated by effectively coupling different Bloch waves and propagating waves, thus offering the metasystem the desired nonlocal control on light waves required by perfect anomalous reflections. Two perfect anomalous reflectors were demonstrated to reflect normally incident 1550-nm light to the 40°/75° directions with absolute efficiencies of 99%/99% in design (98%/88% in experiment). Our results pave the way toward realizing optical metadevices with desired high efficiencies in realistic applications.
Technical reasoning bolsters cumulative technological culture through convergent transformations
Authors: Osiurak François , Claidière Nicolas , Bluet Alexandre , Brogniart Joël , Lasserre Salomé , Bonhoure Timothé , Di Rollo Laura , Gorry Néo , Polette Yohann , Saude Alix , Federico Giovanni , Uomini Natalie , Reynaud Emanuelle
Published: March 2022

Understanding the evolution of human technology is key to solving the mystery of our origins. Current theories propose that technology evolved through the accumulation of modifications that were mostly transmitted between individuals by blind copying and the selective retention of advantageous variations. An alternative account is that high-fidelity transmission in the context of cumulative technological culture is supported by technical reasoning, which is a reconstruction mechanism that allows individuals to converge to optimal solutions. We tested these two competing hypotheses with a microsociety experiment, in which participants had to optimize a physical system in partial- and degraded-information transmission conditions. Our results indicated an improvement of the system over generations, which was accompanied by an increased understanding of it. The solutions produced tended to progressively converge over generations. These findings show that technical reasoning can bolster high-fidelity transmission through convergent transformations, which highlights its role in the cultural evolution of technology.
Tet-mediated DNA demethylation regulates specification of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells during mammalian embryogenesis
Authors: Ma Liyang , Tang Qin , Gao Xin , Lee Joun , Lei Run , Suzuki Masako , Zheng Deyou , Ito Keisuke , Frenette Paul S. , Dawlaty Meelad M.
Published: March 2022

Ten-eleven translocation (Tet) enzymes promote DNA demethylation by oxidizing 5-methylcytosine. They are expressed during development and are essential for mouse gastrulation. However, their postgastrulation functions are not well established. We find that global or endothelial-specific loss of all three Tet enzymes immediately after gastrulation leads to reduced number of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and lethality in mid-gestation mouse embryos. This is due to defects in specification of HSPCs from endothelial cells (ECs) that compromise primitive and definitive hematopoiesis. Mechanistically, loss of Tet enzymes in ECs led to hypermethylation and down-regulation of NFκB1 and master hematopoietic transcription factors (Gata1/2, Runx1, and Gfi1b). Restoring Tet catalytic activity or overexpression of these factors in Tet-deficient ECs rescued hematopoiesis defects. This establishes Tet enzymes as activators of hematopoiesis programs in ECs for specification of HSPCs during embryogenesis, which is distinct from their roles in adult hematopoiesis, with implications in deriving HSPCs from pluripotent cells.
Modeling genetic diseases in nonhuman primates through embryonic and germline modification: Considerations and challenges
Authors: Schmidt Jenna K. , Jones Kathryn M. , Van Vleck Trevor , Emborg Marina E.
Published: March 2022

Genetic modification of the embryo or germ line of nonhuman primates is envisioned as a method to develop improved models of human disease, yet the promise of such animal models remains unfulfilled. Here, we discuss current methods and their limitations for producing nonhuman primate genetic models that faithfully genocopy and phenocopy human disease. We reflect on how to ethically maximize the translational relevance of such models in the search for new therapeutic strategies to treat human disease.
Rapid Bacterial Detection in Urine Using Laser Scattering and Deep Learning Analysis
Authors: Lee Kwang Seob , Lim Hyung Jae , Kim Kyungnam , Park Yeon-Gyeong , Yoo Jae-Woo , Yong Dongeun
Published: March 2022

This study performed deep learning of multiple laser scattering patterns by the bacteria in urine to predict positive urine culture. Conventional urine analyzers have limited performance in identifying bacteria in urine. This novel method showed a satisfactory accuracy taking only 30 min of analysis without conventional urine culture. It was also developed to predict the Gram staining reaction of the bacteria. It can be used as a standalone screening tool for urinary tract infection.
All Driven by Energy Demand? Integrative Comparison of Metabolism of Enterococcus faecalis Wildtype and a Glutamine Synthase Mutant
Authors: Loghmani Seyed Babak , Zitzow Eric , Koh Gene Ching Chiek , Ulmer Andreas , Veith Nadine , Großeholz Ruth , Rossnagel Madlen , Loesch Maren , Aebersold Ruedi , Kreikemeyer Bernd , Fiedler Tomas , Kummer Ursula
Published: March 2022

The integration of new pH-dependent experimental data on metabolic uptake and release fluxes, as well as of proteome data with a genome-scale computational model of a glutamine synthetase mutant of
E. faecalis
is used and compared with those of the wildtype to understand why glutamine auxotrophy results in a less efficient metabolism and how—in comparison with the wildtype—the glutamine synthetase knockout impacts metabolic adjustments during acidification or simply exposure to lower pH. We show that forced glutamine auxotrophy causes more energy demand and that this is likely due to a disregulated glutamine uptake.
Supplemental Material: Post-Laramide, Eocene epeirogeny in central Colorado—The result of a mantle drip?
Authors: Abbott L.D. , al. et
Published: March 2022

Contains additional information about samples and their thermochronologic analysis, analytical methods used, HeFTy modeling, and comparison of results with those from previous work on Whitehorn granodiorite.
Two-year neurodevelopmental outcome in children born extremely preterm: the EPI-DAF study
Authors: van Beek Pauline E , Rijken Monique , Broeders Lisa , ter Horst Hendrik J , Koopman-Esseboom Corine , de Kort Ellen , Laarman Céleste , Mulder-de Tollenaer Susanne M , Steiner Katerina , Swarte Renate MC , van Westering-Kroon Elke , Oei S Guid , Leemhuis Aleid G , Andriessen Peter
Published: March 2022

Objective

In 2010, the Dutch practice regarding initiation of active treatment in extremely preterm infants was lowered from 25 completed weeks’ to 24 completed weeks’ gestation. The nationwide Extremely Preterm Infants – Dutch Analysis on Follow-up Study was set up to provide up-to-date data on neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years’ corrected age (CA) after this guideline change.

Design:National cohort study.

Patients

All live born infants between 240/7weeks’ and 266/7weeks’ gestational age who were 2 years’ CA in 2018–2020.

Main outcome measure

Impairment at 2 years’ CA, based on cognitive score (Bayley-III-NL), neurological examination and neurosensory function.

Results

651 of 991 live born infants (66%) survived to 2 years’ CA, with data available for 554 (85%). Overall, 62% had no impairment, 29% mild impairment and 9% moderate-to-severe impairment (further defined as neurodevelopmental impairment, NDI). The percentage of survivors with NDI was comparable for infants born at 24 weeks’, 25 weeks’ and 26 weeks’ gestation. After multivariable analysis, severe brain injury and low maternal education were associated with higher odds on NDI. NDI-free survival was 48%, 67% and 75% in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)-admitted infants at 24, 25 and 26 weeks’ gestation, respectively.

Conclusions

Lowering the threshold has not been accompanied by a large increase in moderate-to-severely impaired infants. Among live-born and NICU-admitted infants, an increase in NDI-free survival was observed from 24 weeks’ to 26 weeks’ gestation. This description of a national cohort with high follow-up rates gives an accurate description of the range of outcomes that may occur after extremely preterm birth.
Caecal volvulus in a foramen of Winslow hernia
Authors: Carpenter Sandra L , Campbell Jacob , Jayaraman Vijay
Published: March 2022

Caecal herniation through the foramen of Winslow is an uncommon presentation of internal hernia with an estimated overall incidence of 0.02%. Even rarer still is a caecal volvulus strangulated in the lesser sac, a surgical emergency seldom described in the literature. A woman in her 70s presented with a 1-day history of acute-onset right upper quadrant and epigastric pain associated with nausea and vomiting. Prompt CT imaging revealed caecal volvulus within a foramen of Winslow hernia. The diagnosis was confirmed by laparotomy. A right hemicolectomy was performed and the foraminal defect was closed. We identified eight case reports of this rare entity published within the last 30 years. Our patient was managed in a similar manner and recovered without complication, providing further guidance for the operative management of caecal volvulus in the foramen of Winslow.
Global impact of COVID-19 on newborn screening programmes
Authors: Koracin Vanesa , Loeber J Gerard , Mlinaric Matej , Battelino Tadej , Bonham James R , Groselj Urh
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The global COVID-19 pandemic has presented extraordinary disruption to healthcare services and exposed them to numerous challenges. Newborn screening (NBS) programmes were also affected; however, scarce data exist on the impact of COVID-19 on NBS.

Methods

We conducted an international survey to assess the global impact of COVID-19 on NBS, with the main aim of gathering the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic from a large and representative number of NBS centres worldwide.

Results

The results of our study showed that COVID-19 impacted the NBS programmes, at least partially, in 29 out of 38 responding countries. Majority of the screening centres experienced a broad spectrum of difficulties and most were affected more in the second wave of the pandemic. Delays and unreliability with the postal service as well as flight cancellations caused delays in samples arriving to screening centres and with the provision of laboratory equipment and reagents. The availability of laboratory staff was sometimes reduced due to infection, quarantine or reassignment within the healthcare facility. Sample collection at home, second-tier tests and follow-up were also affected. Social restrictions and interruptions in public transport added to these difficulties. Only a limited number of centres managed to retain a fully functioning NBS programme.

Conclusion

As the pandemic might continue or could recur in future years, it would be useful to develop guidelines to protect these valuable services.
Routine lung volume recruitment in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Katz Sherri L , Mah Jean K , McMillan Hugh J , Campbell Craig , Bijelić Vid , Barrowman Nick , Momoli Franco , Blinder Henrietta , Aaron Shawn D , McAdam Laura C , Nguyen The Thanh Diem , Tarnopolsky Mark , Wensley David F , Zielinski David , Rose Louise , Sheers Nicole , Berlowitz David J , Wolfe Lisa , McKim Doug
Published: March 2022

Background

Impaired cough results in airway secretion retention, atelectasis and pneumonia in individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Lung volume recruitment (LVR) stacks breaths to inflate the lungs to greater volumes than spontaneous effort. LVR is recommended in DMD clinical care guidelines but is not well studied. We aimed to determine whether twice-daily LVR, compared with standard of care alone, attenuates the decline in FVC at 2 years in boys with DMD.

Methods

In this multicentre, assessor-blinded, randomised controlled trial, boys with DMD, aged 6–16 years with FVC >30% predicted, were randomised to receive conventional treatment or conventional treatment plus manual LVR twice daily for 2 years. The primary outcome was FVC % predicted at 2 years, adjusted for baseline FVC % predicted, age and ambulatory status. Secondary outcomes included change in chest wall distensibility (maximal insufflation capacity minus FVC) and peak cough flow.

Results

Sixty-six boys (36 in LVR group, 30 in control) were evaluated (median age (IQR): 11.5 years (9.5–13.5), median baseline FVC (IQR): 85% predicted (73–96)). Adjusted mean difference in FVC between groups at 2 years was 1.9% predicted (95% CI −6.9% to 10.7%; p=0.68) in the direction of treatment benefit. We found no differences in secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

There was no difference in decline in FVC % predicted with use of twice-daily LVR for boys with DMD and relatively normal lung function. The burden associated with routine LVR may outweigh the benefit. Benefits of LVR to maintain lung health in boys with worse baseline lung function still need to be clarified.

Trial registration number

NCT01999075.
In situ biochemical characterization of Venus cloud particles using a life-signature detection microscope
Authors: Sasaki Satoshi , Yamagishi Akihiko , Yoshimura Yoshitaka , Enya Keigo , Miyakawa Atsuo , Ohno Sosuke , Fujita Kazuhisa , Usui Tomohiro , Limaye Sanjay S.
Published: March 2022

Much of the information about the size and shape of aerosols forming haze and the cloud layer of Venus is obtained from indirect inferences from nephelometers on probes and from the analysis of the variation of polarization with the phase angle and the glory feature from images of Venus. The microscopic imaging of Venus’ aerosols has recently been advocated. Direct measurements from a fluorescence microscope can provide information on the morphology, density, and biochemical characteristics of the particles; thus, fluorescence microscopy is attractive for in situ particle characterization of the Venus cloud layer. Fluorescence imaging of Venus cloud particles presents several challenges owing to the sulfuric acid composition and corrosive effects. In this article, we identify the challenges and describe our approach to overcoming them for a fluorescence microscope based on an in situ biochemical and physical characterization instrument for use in the clouds of Venus from a suitable aerial platform. We report that pH adjustment using alkali was effective for obtaining fluorescence images and that fluorescence attenuation was observed after the adjustment, even when the acidophile suspension in concentrated sulfuric acid was used as a sample.
Analysis of accretion disk around a black hole in dRGT massive gravity
Authors: Kazempour Sobhan , Zou Yuan-Chuan , Akbarieh Amin Rezaei
Published: March 2022

We show the analysis of a thin accretion disk around a static and spherically symmetric black hole in dRGT massive gravity. We present the accretion disk analysis in a gravitational theory with a nonzero graviton mass. Also, we study the event horizons of the black hole and we calculate the equations of motion and effective potential. In the following, we obtain the specific energy, specific angular momentum, and angular velocity of the particles which move in circular orbits. In addition, we plot the effective potentials for two cases and we show the locations of stable circular orbits. At last, we show the possibility of constraining the parameter space of dRGT massive gravity by the astrophysical gamma-ray bursts.
BBN constraints on f(Q,T) gravity
Authors: Bhattacharjee Snehasish
Published: March 2022

[Formula: see text] gravity is a novel extension of the symmetric teleparallel gravity where the Lagrangian [Formula: see text] is represented through an arbitrary function of the nonmetricity [Formula: see text] and the trace of the energy–momentum tensor [Formula: see text].23 In this work, we have constrained a widely used [Formula: see text] gravity model of the form [Formula: see text] from the primordial abundances of the light elements to understand its viability in cosmology. We report that the [Formula: see text] gravity model can elegantly explain the observed abundances of Helium and Deuterium while the Lithium problem persists. From the constraint on the expansion factor in the range [Formula: see text], we report strict constraints on the parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in the range [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively.
The Late Ordovician Tafilalt Biota, Anti-Atlas, Morocco: a high-latitude perspective on the GOBE
Authors: Lefebvre Bertrand , Van Roy Peter , Zamora Samuel , Gutiérrez-Marco Juan Carlos , Nohejlová Martina
Published: March 2022

The extensive, predominantly siliciclastic deposits of the Upper Ordovician of the Tafilalt have long been the subject of scientific investigation. In the past 25 years, intensified collecting for commercial purposes has resulted in the discovery of several exceptionally-preserved faunas (Konservat-Lagerstätten) in the Tafilalt region, preserving a range of non-biomineralized and soft-bodied organisms. The preservation of these fossils in the coarse clastic sediments of the Tafilalt is surprising, and in the case of soft-bodied organisms, remarkably similar to the preservational mode of typical Ediacaran biotas. These relatively recent discoveries have increased the scientific significance of the Tafilalt Biota, providing an unparalleled insight into the composition and temporal evolution of the shallow, open-marine ecosystems and their denizens during the later stages of the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event. At least nine different phyla, in addition to several soft-bodied problematica are represented in the Tafilalt. While the highly diverse and remarkably well-preserved echinoderm and euarthropod faunas are most emblematic for the Tafilalt Biota, further studies have revealed a relatively high diversity of molluscs and brachiopods. Among soft-bodied fossils, the problematic paropsonemid eldonids are iconic for the Tafilalt and stand out both through their abundance, and their wide temporal and geographical range throughout the area.
Scaling beyond Bandwidth Limitations: Wireless Control with Stability Guarantees under Overload
Authors: Mager Fabian , Baumann Dominik , Herrmann Carsten , Trimpe Sebastian , Zimmerling Marco
Published: March 2022

An important class of cyber-physical systems relies on multiple agents that jointly perform a task by coordinating their actions over a wireless network. Examples include self-driving cars in intelligent transportation and production robots in smart manufacturing. However, the scalability of existing control-over-wireless solutions is limited as they cannot resolve overload situations in which the communication demand exceeds the available bandwidth. This article presents a novel co-design of distributed control and wireless communication that overcomes this limitation by dynamically allocating the available bandwidth to agents with the greatest need to communicate. Experiments on a real cyber-physical testbed with 20 agents, each consisting of a low-power wireless embedded device and a cart-pole system, demonstrate that our solution achieves significantly better control performance under overload than the state of the art. We further prove that our co-design guarantees closed-loop stability for physical systems with stochastic linear time-invariant dynamics.
Investigation of the Photoinduced Deposition Mechanism and Interfacial Properties Related to the Photoelectrochemical Performance of Pb/Cu–Au Bimetallic Nanocrystals
Authors: Xu Haiyan , Sun Ziwei , Pei Jing , Sheng Pengtao , Li Weili , Li Songtian
Published: March 2022

Modifying TiO2 with noble metal nanocrystals via photodeposition is an efficient strategy for improving its photoelectrochemical performance. The photodeposition process is still an open question and needs to be further clarified. Herein, we selectively deposited Pb or Cu on Au nanocrystals supported by the branched TiO2 nanostructure to prepare the Au@metal/semiconductor photocatalyst. The results revealed the dependence of the photodeposition mechanism on the type of electrolyte. In an acetic acid–acetate system Pb deposition on Au undergoes both underpotential and overpotential deposition processes, while Cu deposition on Au only displays overpotential deposition behavior. In a nitric acid–nitrate system, however, only underpotential deposition occurs during Pb deposition on Au. Surface microstructure analysis shows that the Cu–Au bimetallic nanocrystals form a typical core/shell structure, while Pb–Au has a Janus structure. The lower ideality factor of Cu/Au–TiO2 than that of Pb/Au–TiO2 indicates an ideal photoelectrode/electrolyte junction for photoelectrochemical reaction, further enhancing carrier transport with a short recombination lifetime of 0.899 ms. Finally, the evaluation of photoelectrochemical performance further confirmed Cu/Au–TiO2 (Au loading amount of about 0.55 mass%) as the optimal photocatalyst, with an efficiency as high as 0.29% or about 1.93 times that of Au–TiO2 (0.15%).
Low Error Estimation of Half-Cell Thermodynamic Parameters from Whole-Cell Li-Ion Battery Experiments: Physics-Based Model Formulation, Experimental Demonstration, and an Open Software Tool
Authors: Hu Victor W. , Schwartz Daniel T.
Published: March 2022

Low C-rate charge and discharge experiments, plus complementary differential voltage or differential capacity analysis, are among the most common battery characterization methods. Here, we adapt the multi-species, multi-reaction (MSMR) half-cell thermodynamic model to low C-rate cycling of whole-cell Li-ion batteries. MSMR models for the anode and cathode are coupled through whole-cell charge balances and cell-cycling voltage constraint equations, forming the basis for model-based estimation of MSMR half-cell parameters from whole-cell experimental data. Emergent properties of the whole-cell, like slippage of the anode and cathode lithiation windows, are also computed as cells cycle and degrade. A sequential least-square optimization scheme is used for parameter estimation from low-C cycling data of Samsung 18650 NMC∣C cells. Low-error fits of the open-circuit cell voltage (e.g., under 5 mV mean absolute error for charge or discharge curves) and differential voltage curves for fresh and aged cells are achieved. We explore the features (and limitations) of using literature reference values for the MSMR half-cell thermodynamic parameters (reducing our whole-cell formulation to a 1-degree-of-freedom fit) and demonstrate the benefits of expanding the degrees of freedom by letting the MSMR parameters be tailored to the cell under test, within a constrained neighborhood of the half-cell reference values. Bootstrap analysis is performed on each dataset to show the robustness of our fitting to experimental noise and data sampling over the course of 600 cell cycles. The results show which specific MSMR insertion reactions are most responsible for capacity loss in each half-cell and the collective interactions that lead to whole-cell slippage and changes in useable capacity. Open-source software is made available to easily extend this model-based analysis to other labs and battery chemistries.
Epigenetic regulation and targeting of ECM for cancer therapy
Authors: Gupta Romi
Published: March 2022

The tumor microenvironment (TME) composed of different types of cells embedded in extracellular matrix (ECM) has crucial effects on cancer growth and metastasis. ECM is made of a variety of proteins that provide structural support to the cells and regulate biological functions by modulating the cross talk among cells, thus effecting tumor growth and progression. In this mini-review, the author discusses epigenetic modifications that regulate the expression of fibrous ECM proteins and glycoproteins and the prospects of targeting them for cancer therapy.
Neurochemical and functional interactions for improved perceptual decisions through training
Authors: Jia Ke , Frangou Polytimi , Karlaftis Vasilis M. , Ziminski Joseph J. , Giorgio Joseph , Rideaux Reuben , Zamboni Elisa , Hodgson Victoria , Emir Uzay , Kourtzi Zoe
Published: March 2022

Combining multimodal brain imaging [magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS)-GABA, functional connectivity] with interventions [transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)], we demonstrate that glutamatergic excitation and functional interactions between sensory (visual) and decision-related (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) areas support our ability to optimize perceptual decisions through training.
Aggregated Traffic Anomaly Detection Using Time Series Forecasting on Call Detail Records
Authors: Mokhtari Arian , Ghorbani Niloofar , Bahrak Behnam
Published: March 2022

Mobile network operators store an enormous amount of information like log files that describe various events and users’ activities. Analysis of these logs might be used in many critical applications such as detecting cyber attacks, finding behavioral patterns of users, security incident response, and network forensics. In a cellular network, call detail records (CDRs) is one type of such logs containing metadata of calls and usually includes valuable information about contacts such as the phone numbers of originating and receiving subscribers, call duration, the area of activity, type of call (SMS or voice call), and a timestamp. With anomaly detection, it is possible to determine abnormal reduction or increment of network traffic in an area or for a particular person. This paper’s primary goal is to study subscribers’ behavior in a cellular network, mainly predicting the number of calls in a region and detecting anomalies in the network traffic. In this paper, a new hybrid method is proposed based on various anomaly detection methods such as GARCH, K-means, and neural network to determine the anomalous data. Moreover, we have discussed the possible causes of such anomalies.