bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DANMEL: A manually curated reference database for analyzing mobile genetic elements associated with bacterial drug resistance
Authors: Wang Peng , Jiang Xiaoyuan , Mu Kai , Jing Ying , Yin Zhe , Cui Yujun , Li Cuidan , Luo Xinhua , Chen Fangzhou , Yu Ting , Zhu Zhichen , Sun Yansong , Chen Fei , Zhou Dongsheng
Published: December 2022

Impact statement

We have developed a manually curated online reference database, DANMEL (http://124.239.252.254/danmel/), that addresses the lack of accurate dissection and annotation of the genetic structures of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) with genes for drug resistance. DANMEL contains accurately annotated and genetically dissected reference MGEs covering 5 categories and 135 subcategories/subfamilies of MGEs. Further, DANMEL provides a detailed guide on how to precisely annotate MGEs. DANMEL also provides SEARCH/BLAST functions to facilitate finding reference MGEs. Overall, DANMEL will aid researchers to conduct in‐depth genetic analysis of sequenced bacterial MGEs with drug‐resistance genes and further facilitate a better understanding of bacterial MGEs associated with drug resistance at a genomic level.
Functional and structural markers of peripheral microvascular autonomic neuropathy
Authors: Rasmussen Thorsten K. , Karlsson Páll , Finnerup Nanna B. , Jensen Troels S. , Nyengaard Jens R. , Terkelsen Astrid J.
Published: December 2022

Introduction/Aims

Autonomic dysfunction is a common complication of small‐fiber neuropathy (SFN). In this study we aimed to assess the applicability of autonomic microvascular indices as a potential marker for SFN assessment.

Methods

Fifteen patients with confirmed SFN (idiopathic neuropathy [n = 10], chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy [n = 2], impaired glucose tolerance [n = 1], hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (hATTR) [n = 1], pulmonary sarcoidosis [n = 1]) and 15 matched control subjects underwent assessment of vascular skin responses assessed through laser Doppler flowmetry and evaluation of microvascular vessel and nerve density in skin biopsies. All participants underwent peripheral autonomic evaluation by quantitative sudomotor axon reflex testing (QSART).

Results

We found no significant differences in vascular skin responses, or in any microvascular skin biopsy markers, when comparing SFN with control subjects. We found no correlation between vascular skin responses and skin biopsy indices. We saw no significant difference in any microvascular indices when comparing subjects with and without impaired sudomotor function.

Discussion

Our findings suggest markers of peripheral microvascular innervation and function are not associated with the diagnosis of SFN. Furthermore, we saw no association between microvascular markers and sudomotor function, suggesting that these are independent and unrelated components of the autonomic nervous system.
On numerical study of constrained coupled shape optimization problems based on a new shape derivative method
Authors: Boulkhemair Abdesslam , Chakib Abdelkrim , Sadik Azeddine
Published: December 2022

In this article, we deal with a numerical method for the approximation of a class of coupled shape optimization problems, which consist in minimizing an appropriate general volume cost functional subjected to coupled boundary value problems by means of a Neumann boundary transmission condition. We show the existence of the shape derivative of the cost functional and express it by means of support functions, using a new formula of shape derivative on a family of convex domains. This allows us to avoid the disadvantages related to the classical shape derivative method using vectors field. Then the numerical discretization is performed using the dual reciprocity boundary element method in order to avert the remeshing task required for the finite element method. Finally, we give some numerical results, based on the gradient method, showing the efficiency of the proposed approach.
An elusive ghost: Searching for the Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo) in the past of Britain
Authors: Albarella Umberto , Higham Tom , McLean Alistair
Published: December 2022

The Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo) is currently absent as a regular breeder in Britain and its status as a native species has been debated. Its occurrence in the Pleistocene of Britain is sparse but uncontroversial, whereas its Holocene presence rests on very few ambiguous findings. Of these, a specimen from Demen's Dale (Derbyshire) originally attributed to the Mesolithic period is the most important. A re‐evaluation of this bone (tarsometatarsus) is presented in this paper. Although its identification as an Eagle Owl is confirmed, radiocarbon dating suggests that the bird rather lived in the Late Pleistocene. On the basis of the current evidence, there are no Holocene remains of the Eagle Owl in the archaeological and fossil record of Britain and the native status of this species remains unconfirmed.
Why did the chicken cross the Wallace Line? Archeological evidence suggests human‐mediated dispersal of Gallus to Flores first occurred at least ~2.25 ka cal. BP
Authors: Meijer Hanneke J. M. , Walker Samuel J. , Sutikna Thomas , Wahyu Saptomo E. , Tocheri Matthew W.
Published: December 2022

Domesticated chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) are a dominant part of the global human diet. Although the early domestication history of this species remains disputed, Mainland Southeast Asia (MSEA) is assumed to have been the initial domestication center. The eastward spread of chickens into Island Southeast Asia (ISEA) and the Pacific is typically attributed to human‐mediated dispersals. Chicken remains are relatively common at Pacific Neolithic sites but are extremely rare in the archaeological records of MSEA and ISEA. Therefore, the exact routes and timing of the human‐mediated spread of chickens from their native range in MSEA into the Pacific remain questions of interest. Here, we present the earliest evidence of Gallus on the Indonesian island of Flores at Liang Bua. This site has yielded an extensive stratigraphic sequence that spans from ~190,000 calendar years (ka) ago until the present and includes dense accumulations of faunal remains. Twelve bones from the cave's Holocene deposits have been identified as Gallus. The oldest remains, a right and left coracoid, were each directly dated to ~2,250 calibrated radiocarbon years before present (ka cal. BP), whereas the youngest Gallus elements are ~0.3 ka old. Although wild Green Junglefowl (Gallus varius) and Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus) are found on Flores today, the absence of either of these species in deposits at Liang Bua older than ~2.5 ka as well as the size and shape of the oldest coracoids suggests that these remains likely represent domesticated G. gallus. This is the first evidence for domesticated chickens in the Neolithic of Flores and the first directly dated Gallus remains in Wallacea. The absence of chickens in the fossil record of ISEA suggests that Red Junglefowl (and perhaps Green Junglefowl also) reached Wallacea via human‐mediated dispersal(s) at least ~2.25 ka cal. BP.
Higher walkability associated with increased physical activity and reduced obesity among United States adults
Authors: Wang Monica L. , Narcisse Marie‐Rachelle , McElfish Pearl A.
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study examined associations among perceived neighborhood walkability, physical activity (PA), and obesity among United States adults.

Methods

Data from the 2020 National Health Interview Survey were analyzed. Walkability was assessed using a summative scale and was categorized as low, medium, or high. PA was categorized as insufficient (0‐149 min/wk) or sufficient (150+ min/wk). Multivariable regressions estimated an association between obesity and BMI and PA/walkability. Mediation analysis was used to partition contribution of PA as a mediator. Effect modification by race and ethnicity in the association between walkability and BMI was explored.

Results

The sample included N = 31,568 adults. Compared with those in low‐walkability neighborhoods, participants in high‐walkability neighborhoods had increased odds of sufficient PA (odds ratio [OR] = 1.48; 95% CI: 1.30‐1.69) and decreased obesity odds (OR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.66‐0.87). PA partially mediated the association between walkability and BMI (23.4%; 95% CI: 14.6%‐62.7%). The association between walkability and BMI was modified by race and ethnicity (F[5,567] = 2.75; p = 0.018). Among White, Black, Hispanic, and Asian adults, BMI decreased with increasing walkability; among American Indian/Alaska Native and multiracial/other adults, BMI increased with increasing walkability.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the importance of investing in the built environment to improve perceptions of walkability and promote PA and healthy weight, as well as developing interventions to target racial and ethnic disparities in these outcomes.
Dose‐dependent effects of esketamine on brain activity in awake mice: A BOLD phMRI study
Authors: Kawazoe Kyrsten , McGlynn Ryan , Felix Wilder , Sevilla Raquel , Liao Siyang , Kulkarni Praveen , Ferris Craig F.
Published: December 2022

Pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging (phMRI) is a noninvasive method used to evaluate neural circuitry involved in the behavioral effects of drugs like ketamine, independent of their specific biochemical mechanism. The study was designed to evaluate the immediate effect of esketamine, the S‐isomer of (±) ketamine on brain activity in awake mice using blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) imaging. It was hypothesized the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and brain areas associated with reward and motivation would show a dose‐dependent increase in brain activity. Mice were given vehicle, 1.0, 3.3, or 10 mg/kg esketamine I.P. and imaged for 10 min post‐treatment. Data for each treatment were registered to a 3D MRI mouse brain atlas providing site‐specific information on 134 different brain areas. There was a global change in brain activity for both positive and negative BOLD signal affecting over 50 brain areas. Many areas showed a dose‐dependent decrease in positive BOLD signal, for example, cortex, hippocampus, and thalamus. The most common profile when comparing the three doses was a U‐shape with the 3.3 dose having the lowest change in signal. At 1.0 mg/kg there was a significant increase in positive BOLD in forebrain areas and hippocampus. The anticipated dose‐dependent increase in BOLD was not realized; instead, the lowest dose of 1.0 mg/kg had the greatest effect on brain activity. The prefrontal cortex and hippocampus were significantly activated corroborating previous imaging studies in humans and animals. The unexpected sensitivity to the 1.0 mg/kg dose of esketamine could be explained by imaging in fully awake mice without the confound of anesthesia and/or its greater affinity for the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) receptor than (±) ketamine.
Fabrication of Graphdiyne/Graphene Composite Microsphere with Wrinkled Surface via Ultrasonic Spray Compounding and its Microwave Absorption Properties
Authors: Ling Mengyun , Wu Fei , Liu Pei , Zhang Qiuyu , Zhang Baoliang
Published: December 2022

Advanced carbon materials are constantly being used in the field of microwave absorption. Herein, in order to enrich the variety and expand the application fields of graphdiyne (GDY), the wrinkled graphene (RGO) nanosheet coated and embedded with GDY porous microspheres (RGO/GDY) are prepared by GDY synthesis, ultrasonic spray, and pyrolysis. The study finds that RGO and GDY have effective synergistic effects. The suitable pores and composition, conductive network formed by overlapping 0D and 2D materials, special surface and internal morphology design, and high‐temperature activation process make RGO/GDY exhibit excellent impedance matching and attenuation capabilities. Under the best amount of GDY (20 mg), the particle sizes of the microspheres (≈6 µm), and filler content (27.5%), the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) is −58 dB@8.3 GHz, and the corresponding matching thickness is 2.7 mm. The effective absorption bandwidth is 4.3 GHz as the thickness is 1.9 mm. By adjusting the thickness, the absorber can completely absorb microwaves of all the C, X, and Ku bands. The microwave absorbing mechanisms are elucidated. GDY materials are first applied to the field of microwave absorption, enhancing the absorption performance of RGO/GDY. It provides a new way to manufacture electromagnetic wave absorbers with satisfactory performance.
Activating Single‐Atom Ni Site via First‐Shell Si Modulation Boosts Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Wang Fangqing , Li Ying , Zhang Rui , Liu Hui , Zhang Yangyang , Zheng Xuerong , Zhang Jun , Chen Cong , Zheng Shijian , Xin Huolin L.
Published: December 2022

Atomically dispersed nitrogen‐coordinated 3d transition‐metal site on carbon support (M‐NC) are promising alternatives to Pt group metal‐based catalysts toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, despite the excellent activities of most of M‐NC catalysts, such as Fe‐NC, Co‐NC et al., their durability is far from satisfactory due to Fenton reaction. Herein, this work reports a novel Si‐doped Ni‐NC catalyst (Ni‐SiNC) that possesses high activity and excellent stability. X‐ray absorption fine structure and aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscopy uncover that the single‐atom Ni site is coordinated with one Si atom and three N atoms, constructing Ni‐Si1N3 moiety. The Ni‐SiNC catalyst exhibits a half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0.866 V versus RHE, with a distinguished long‐term durability in alkaline media of only 10 mV negative shift in E1/2 after 35 000 cycles, which is also validated in Zn‐air battery. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the Ni‐Si1N3 moiety facilitates ORR kinetics through optimizing the adsorption of intermediates.
Encapsulating Ni Nanoparticles into Interlayers of Nitrogen‐Doped Nb2CTx MXene to Boost Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Acid
Authors: Huang Jingle , Feng Min , Peng Yang , Huang Churong , Yue Xin , Huang Shaoming
Published: December 2022

Design and development of low‐cost and highly efficient non‐precious metal electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in an acidic medium are key issues to realize the commercialization of proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers. Ni is regarded as an ideal alternative to substitute Pt for HER based on the similar electronic structure and low price as well. However, low intrinsic activity and poor stability in acid restrict its practical applications. Herein, a new approach is reported to encapsulate Ni nanoparticles (NPs) into interlayer edges of N‐doped Nb2CTx MXene (Ni NPs@N‐Nb2CTx) by an electrochemical process. The as‐prepared Ni NPs@N‐Nb2CTx possesses Pt‐like onset potentials and can reach 500 mA cm−2 at overpotentials of only 383 mV, which is much higher than that of N‐Nb2CTx supported Ni NPs synthesized by a wet‐chemical method (w‐ Ni NPs/N‐Nb2CTx). Furthermore, it shows high durability toward HER with a large current density of 300 mA cm−2 for 24 h because of the encapsulated structure against corrosion, oxidation as well as aggregation of Ni NPs in an acidic medium. Detailed structural characterization and density functional theory calculations reveal that the stronger interaction boosts the HER.
Multimodal‐Synergistic‐Modulation Neuromorphic Imaging Systems for Simulating Dry Eye Imaging
Authors: Han Xu , Zhao Xiaoli , Zeng Tao , Yang Yahan , Yu Hongyan , Zhang Cong , Wang Bin , Liu Xiaoqian , Zhang Tao , Sun Jing , Li Xinyuan , Zhao Tuo , Zhang Mingxin , Ni Yanping , Tong Yanhong , Tang Qingxin , Liu Yichun
Published: December 2022

Inspired by human eyes, the neuromorphic visual system employs a highly efficient imaging and recognition process, which offers tremendous advantages in image acquisition, data pre‐processing, and dynamic storage. However, it is still an enormous challenge to simultaneously simulate the structure, function, and environmental adaptive behavior of the human eye based on one device. Here, a multimodal‐synergistic‐modulation neuromorphic imaging system based on ultraflexible synaptic transistors is successfully presented and firstly simulates the dry eye imaging behavior at the device level. Moreover, important functions of the human visual system in relation to optoelectronic synaptic plasticity, image erasure and enhancement, real‐time preprocessing, and dynamic storage are simulated by versatile devices. This work not only simplifies the complexity of traditional neuromorphic visual systems, but also plays a positive role in the publicity of biomedical eye care.
Confine, Defect, and Interface Manipulation of Fe3Se4/3D Graphene Targeting Fast and Stable Potassium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Liu Yu , Wan Qi , Gong Juan , Liu Zhiwei , Tao Gang , Zhao Jie , Chen Le , Li Wenshu , Wei Xijun , Ni Ling , Song Yingze
Published: December 2022

The fast electrochemical kinetics behavior and long cycling life have been the goals in developing anode materials for potassium ion batteries (PIBs). On account of high electron conductivity and theoretical capacity, transition metal selenides have been deemed as one of the promising anode materials for PIBs. Herein, a systematic structural manipulation strategy, pertaining to the confine of Fe3Se4 particles by 3D graphene and the dual phosphorus (P) doping to the Fe3Se4/3DG (DP‐Fe3Se4/3DG), has been proposed to fulfill the efficient potassium‐ion (K‐ion) evolution kinetics and thus boost the K‐ion storage performance. The theoretical calculation results demonstrate that the well‐designed dual P doping interface can effectively promote K‐ion adsorption behavior and provide a low energy barrier for K‐ion diffusion. The insertion‐conversion and adsorption mechanism for multi potassium storage behavior in DP‐Fe3Se4/3DG composite has been also deciphered by combining the in situ/ex situ X‐ray diffraction and operando Raman spectra evidences. As expected, the DP‐Fe3Se4/3DG anode exhibits superior rate capability (120.2 mA h g−1 at 10 A g−1) and outstanding cycling performance (157.9 mA h g−1 after 1000 cycles at 5 A g−1).
Multi‐Unit Needleless Electrospinning for One‐Step Construction of 3D Waterproof MF‐PVA Nanofibrous Membranes as High‐Performance Air Filters
Authors: Yan Guilong , Yang Zihao , Li Jiayi , Li Han , Wei Jiabing , Shi Letian , Li Zhenyu , Chen Jingyu , Wang Li , Wu Yuanpeng
Published: December 2022

The airborne particulate matter (PM) seriously threatens people's health. Personal protective equipment with electrospun nanofibers is an effective method to make people away from air pollutants. Herein, 3D waterproof melamine‐formaldehyde polyvinyl alcohol (MF‐PVA) nanofibrous membranes are fabricated by a one‐step method combining multi‐unit needleless electrospinning and a thermal treatment device in a line. 3D nanofibrous structures can be controlled by adjusting the solution concentration of each unit. The PVA nanofibrous membranes become waterproof after cross‐linking with MF resin in the following thermal treatment device. The optimized MF‐PVA nanofibrous membrane shows excellent air filtration performance (97.3% for PM0.3, 100% for PM1.0, and 100% for PM2.5) and low air resistance (76 Pa). These 3D waterproof MF‐PVA nanofibrous membranes exhibit ultra‐stable performance in various practical environments.
Creeping fat formation and interaction with intestinal disease in Crohn's disease
Authors: Yin Yi , Xie Ying , Ge Wei , Li Yi
Published: December 2022

Creeping fat (CrF), also known as fat wrapping, is a significant disease characteristic of Crohn's disease (CD). The transmural inflammation impairs intestinal integrity and facilitates bacteria translocation, aggravating immune response. CrF is a rich source of pro‐inflammatory and pro‐fibrotic cytokines with complex immune microenvironment. The inflamed and stricturing intestine is often wrapped by CrF, and CrF is associated with greater severity of CD. The large amount of innate and adaptive immune cells as well as adipocytes in CrF promote fibrosis in the affected intestine by secreting large amount of pro‐fibrotic cytokines, adipokines, growth factors and fatty acids. CrF is a potential therapeutic target for CD treatment and a promising bio‐marker for predicting response to drug therapy. This review aims to summarize and update the clinical manifestation and application of CrF and the underlying molecular mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of intestinal inflammation and fibrosis in CD.
Meta‐analysis of genetic parameters for growth traits in meat, wool and dual‐purpose sheep breeds in the world using a random‐effects model
Authors: Abasi‐Mousa Sara , Varkoohi Sheida , Joezy Sahereh , Salary Nader , Khansefid Majid
Published: December 2022

Background

There is large variation in genetic parameters in literature for growth traits in sheep. Reliable estimation of genetic parameters is required for developing breeding programmes.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to aggregate results of different studies by meta‐analysis to improve reliability of estimated parameters.

Methods

In the current study, 221 papers that have been published between 1995 and 2021 were reviewed. Using a random‐effects model in the Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis software, direct and maternal heritabilities, as well as, genetic and phenotypic correlations between growth traits were estimated in meat (M), wool (W) and dual‐purpose (D) sheep breeds. The growth traits in this study were birth weight, 3‐month weight, 6‐month weight, 9‐month weight and yearling weight.

Results

The combined direct heritability was the lowest for birth weight (0.190 ± 0.004, 0.198 ± 0.003 and 0.196 ± 0.004 for M, W and D breeds, respectively) and the highest for yearling weight (0.264 ± 0.010, 0.304 ± 0.005 and 0.285 ± 0.020 for M, W and D breeds, respectively). The maternal heritability was the lowest for yearling weight (0.085 ± 0.003, 0.055 ± 0.002 and 0.052 ± 0.005 for M, W and D breeds, respectively) and the highest for 6‐month weight (0.240 ± 0.088, 0.164 ± 0.001 and 0.162 ± 0.006 for M, W and D breeds, respectively). The phenotypic and genetic correlations were lower between the weights measured at more distant intervals. The lowest genetic correlation was observed between birth weight and yearling weight (0.290 ± 0.051 for W breeds).

Conclusions

The small standard errors could indicate that the aggregation of results from different studies improved the reliability of estimated parameters and reduced range of 95% confidence intervals. Hence, the results could be used with greater level of confidence in sheep breeding programmes.
A multiconfigurational approach to the electronic structure of electro‐generated species of the Re2(μ‐Ph2PCH2PPh2)(S2CNEt2)4 complex
Authors: Obies Mohammed
Published: December 2022

The nature of Re−Re bonding in Re2(μ‐Ph2PCH2PPh2)(S2CNEt2)4 complex, including its neutral (10) and two oxidized (1+ and 12+) species, was explored utilizing state‐of‐the‐art quantum chemical methodologies within density functional theory (DFT) and complete active space self‐consistent field (CASSCF). Our results show that the ground state electron configuration of the 10 is
with an effective bond order (EBO) of 2.73 computed with CASSCF. The oxidation discloses an electron removal from a metal‐based orbital, giving 1+ and 12+ with an EBO of 2.71 and 2.64, respectively. The relative similarity in EBO values among neutral and oxidized species suggests that the oxidation processes have almost no effect on the Re−Re bond strength even though electrons removal from metal‐based orbitals because the electrons that occupied the
components of Re−Re bonds in 1+ and 12+ localized on the two Re ions, thus, they were excluded from EBO estimation.
Automatische Annotation
Authors: Schumacher Mareike K.
Published: December 2022

Die zentrale Methode, die in dieser Studie zur Anwendung kommt, ist die Named Entity Recognition (NER), deren methodische Grundlagen in diesem Kapitel beschrieben werden. Wird die in der Computerlinguistik entwickelte Methode in der Literaturwissenschaft nachgenutzt, so ist es notwendig, eine Domänenadaption durchzuführen und dabei den State of the Art in der Ursprungsdomäne im Blick zu behalten. Nachdem die Grundlagen von NER und Domänenadaption beschrieben wurden, steht im letzten Unterkapitel dieses Abschnitts eine ausführliche Methodenkritik.
Der Raumindexwert (RIW) und weitere Indexwerte
Authors: Schumacher Mareike K.
Published: December 2022

Um die Darstellung von Raum in Erzähltexten messbar zu machen, kann eine Formel zur Errechnung eines Indexwertes genutzt werden, die in diesem Kapitel vorgestellt wird. In die Berechnung wird die Explizitheit der jeweiligen Kategorie von Indikatoren narrativen Raumes ebenso einbezogen wie die Textlänge. Neben dem Umfassenden Raumindexwert (RIW) können noch weitere Indexwerte berechnet werden, die hier ebenfalls eingeführt werden.
Sharp and quantitative estimates for the p-Torsion of convex sets
Authors: Amato V. , Masiello A. L. , Paoli G. , Sannipoli R.
Published: December 2022

Let$$\Omega \subset \mathbb {R}^n$$Ω⊂Rn,$$n\ge 2$$n≥2, be a non-empty, bounded, open and convex set and letfbe a positive and non-increasing function depending only on the distance from the boundary of$$\Omega $$Ω. We consider thep-torsional rigidity associated to$$\Omega $$Ωfor the Poisson problem with Dirichlet boundary conditions, denoted by$$T_{f,p}(\Omega )$$Tf,p(Ω). Firstly, we prove a Pólya type lower bound for$$T_{f,p}(\Omega )$$Tf,p(Ω)in any dimension; then, we consider the planar case and we provide two quantitative estimates in the case$$f\equiv 1 $$f≡1.
Inpatient GHB withdrawal management in an inner-city hospital in Sydney, Australia: a retrospective medical record review
Authors: Siefried Krista J. , Freeman Georgia , Roberts Darren M. , Lindsey Rhiannon , Rodgers Craig , Ezard Nadine , Brett Jonathan
Published: December 2022

Rationale

Regular consumption of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) may result in a dependence syndrome that can lead to withdrawal symptoms. There are limited data on medications to manage GHB withdrawal.

Objectives

To examine characteristics associated with delirium and discharge against medical advice (DAMA), in the context of implementing a GHB withdrawal management protocol at an inner-city hospital in 2020.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed records (01 January 2017–31 March 2021), and included admissions that were ≥ 18 years of age, admitted for GHB withdrawal, and with documented recent GHB use. Admissions were assessed for demographics, medications administered, features of delirium, ICU admission, and DAMA. Exploratory analyses were conducted to examine factors associated (p < 0.2) with features of delirium and DAMA.

Results

We identified 135 admissions amongst 91 patients. Medications administered included diazepam (133 admissions, 98.5%), antipsychotics (olanzapine [70 admissions, 51.9%]), baclofen (114 admissions, 84%), and phenobarbital (8 admissions, 5.9%). Features of delirium were diagnosed in 21 (16%) admissions. Delirium was associated with higher daily GHB consumption prior to admission, while duration of GHB use, time from presentation to first dose of diazepam, and concomitant methamphetamine use were inversely associated with delirium. DAMA occurred amongst 41 (30%) admissions, and was associated with a longer time from presentation to first dose of baclofen, while being female and receiving a loading dose of diazepam were inversely associated.

Conclusions

This study adds to the literature in support of the safety and feasibility of diazepam and baclofen for the management of GHB withdrawal. Prospective, randomised trials are required.
Stabilization and quantitative measurement of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide in human whole blood using dried blood spot sampling
Authors: Matsuyama Ryo , Omata Tomoyo , Kageyama Michiharu , Nakajima Ryota , Kanou Masanobu , Yamana Kei
Published: December 2022

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme essential for energy production. Recently, associations between NAD+ and aging-related diseases have been reported, and NAD+ precursors that increase NAD+ concentration in the body have been acknowledged as anti-aging supplements. However, there have been only a few studies on the link between aging or aging-related diseases and human blood NAD+ concentration because NAD+ and its precursors are unstable in blood and difficult to measure. Therefore, we aimed to construct a quantitative NAD+ measurement method that is simpler than the existing methods. The calibration standards of NAD+ showed good linearity (0.9936 to 0.9990) in the range of 0.25 to 200 μM, and the lower limit of quantification was 0.5 to 2 μM. We found that QIAcard FTA DMPK-B maintained NAD+ stability of 85% or more for at least 2 weeks at 4 °C and 1 week at room temperature using the dried blood spot method. Additionally, NAD+ stability in the blood extraction solution was more than 90% for 2 months. To our knowledge, there has been no report on a quantitative NAD+ measurement method in human whole blood that can be performed with as little as 5 μL of blood and can be easily implemented at both medical clinics and private homes. Our simple and convenient method has the potential to become the gold standard for NAD+ measurement in blood. It is expected to contribute to the acceleration of research on the correlation between aging or aging-related diseases and NAD+ concentration in human blood.
Prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus in women with a family history of type 2 diabetes in first- and second-degree relatives
Authors: Monod Cécile , Kotzaeridi Grammata , Linder Tina , Eppel Daniel , Rosicky Ingo , Filippi Valeria , Tura Andrea , Hösli Irene , Göbl Christian S.
Published: December 2022

Aims

A family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) markedly increases an individual's lifetime risk of developing the disease. For gestational diabetes (GDM), this risk factor is less well characterized. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between family history of T2DM in first- and second-degree relatives in women with GDM and the differences in metabolic characteristics at early gestation.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 1129 pregnant women. A broad risk evaluation was performed before 16 + 0 weeks of gestation, including a detailed family history of the different types of diabetes and a laboratory examination of glucometabolic parameters. Participants were followed up until delivery and GDM assessed according to the latest diagnosis criteria.

Results

We showed that pregnant women with first- (FHD1, 26.6%, OR 1.91, 95%CI 1.16 to 3.16, p = 0.005), second- (FHD2, 26.3%, OR 1.88, 95%CI 1.16 to 3.05, p = 0.005) or both first- and second-degree relatives with T2DM (FHD1 + D2, 33.3%, OR 2.64, 95%CI 1.41 to 4.94, p < 0.001) had a markedly increased risk of GDM compared to those with negative family history (FHN) (n = 100, 15.9%). The association was strongest if both parents were affected (OR 4.69, 95%CI 1.33 to 16.55, p = 0.009). Women with FHD1 and FHD1 + D2 had adverse glucometabolic profiles already in early pregnancy.

Conclusions

Family history of T2DM is an important risk factor for GDM, also by applying the current diagnostic criteria. Furthermore, we showed that the degree of kinship plays an essential role in quantifying the risk already at early pregnancy.
The positive impact of cisternostomy with cisternal drainage on delayed hydrocephalus after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Garvayo Marta , Messerer Mahmoud , Starnoni Daniele , Puccinelli Francesco , Vandenbulcke Alberto , Daniel Roy T. , Cossu Giulia
Published: December 2022

Background

Hydrocephalus is one of the major complications of aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH). In the acute setting, an external ventricular drain (EVD) is used for early management. A cisternal drain (CD) coupled with the micro-surgical opening of basal cisterns can be an alternative when the aneurysm is clipped. Chronic hydrocephalus after aSAH is managed with ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt, a procedure associated with a wide range of complications. The aim of this study is to analyse the impact of micro-surgical opening of basal cisterns coupled with CD on the incidence of VP shunt, compared to patients treated with EVD.

Methods

The authors conducted a retrospective review of 89 consecutive cases of patients with aSAH treated surgically and endovascularly with either EVD or CD between January 2009 and September 2021. Patients were stratified into two groups: Group 1 included patients with EVD, Group 2 included patients with CD. Subgroup analysis with only patients treated surgically was also performed. We compared their baseline characteristics, clinical outcomes and shunting rates.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of epidemiological characteristics, WFNS score, Fisher scale, presence of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), acute hydrocephalus, postoperative meningitis or of clinical outcomes at last follow-up. Cisternostomy with CD (Group 2) was associated with a statistically significant reduction in VP-shunt compared with the use of an EVD (Group 1) (9.09% vs 53.78%; p < 0.001). This finding was confirmed in our subgroup analysis, as among patients with a surgical clipping, the rate of VP shunt was 43.7% for the EVD group and 9.5% for the CD group (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Cisternostomy with CD may reduce the rate of shunt-dependent hydrocephalus. Cisternostomy allows the removal of subarachnoid blood, thereby reducing arachnoid inflammation and fibrosis. CD may enhance this effect, thus resulting in lower rates of chronic hydrocephalus.
Effect of legal regulation of supplemental feeding on space use of red deer in an area with chronic wasting disease
Authors: Mysterud Atle , Rivrud Inger Maren , Brekkum Øystein , Meisingset Erling L.
Published: December 2022

Supplemental feeding of cervids during winter is a widespread management practice, but feeding may increase the risk of disease transmission. Therefore, legal regulations to limit supplemental feeding are often implemented when dealing with severe infectious diseases, such as chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids. However, it is currently unclear whether these regulations result in decreased spatial clustering and aggregation as intended. Supplemental feeding is expected to restrict the movement of cervids. Therefore, a ban on feeding may also result in wider space use and a risk of geographic spread of disease. The space use of 63 GPS-marked red deer (Cervus elaphus) was investigated before (n = 34) and after (n = 29) the implementation of a legal regulation aimed at limiting the supplemental feeding of cervids during winter in a CWD-affected region of Nordfjella, Norway. Snow depth was the main determinant of the space use for red deer. A moderate reduction in the number of GPS positions in spatial clusters was evident during periods of deep snow once the ban was in place. Sizes of core areas (Kernel 50%), home ranges (Kernel 95%), and dispersion (MCP 100%, number of 1 km2 pixels visited per deer) declined from January to March and with increasing snow depth. Dispersion (number of 1 km2 pixels visited per deer) did not depend on snow depth after the ban, and red deer used larger areas when snow depth was high after the ban compared to before. The ban on supplementary feeding had no effect on size of core areas or home ranges. Several potential factors can explain the overall weak effect of the ban on space use, including the use of agricultural fields by red deer, other anthropogenic feeding, and landscape topography. This study highlights that snow depth is the main factor determining space use during winter, and it remains to be determined whether the moderate reduction in spatial clustering during deep snow after the ban was sufficient to lower the risk of disease transmission.
Psoriatic arthritis: review of potential biomarkers predicting response to TNF inhibitors
Authors: Makos Anaïs , Kuiper J. H. , Kehoe O. , Amarasena R.
Published: December 2022

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic and painful inflammatory immune-mediated disease. It affects up to 40% of people with psoriasis and it is associated with several comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and hypertension. PsA is difficult to diagnose because of its diverse symptoms, namely axial and peripheral arthritis, enthesitis, dactylitis, skin changes, and nail dystrophy. Different drugs exist to treat the inflammation and pain. When patients do not respond to conventional drugs, they are treated with biologic drugs. Tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi’s) are commonly given as the first biologic drug; beside being expensive, they also lack efficacy in 50% of patients. A biomarker predicting individual patient’s response to TNFi would help treating them earlier with an appropriate biologic drug. This study aimed to review the literature to identify potential biomarkers that should be investigated for their predictive ability. Several such biomarkers were identified, namely transmembrane TNFα (tmTNF), human serum albumin (HSA) and its half-life receptor, the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) which is also involved in IgG lifespan; calprotectin, high mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) whose overexpression lead to excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines; lymphotoxin α (LTα) which induces inflammation by binding to TNF receptor (TNFR); and T helper 17 (Th17) cells which induce inflammation by IL-17A secretion.
Asylum Seekers’ Responses to Government COVID-19 Recommendations: A Cross-sectional Survey in a Swiss Canton
Authors: Morisod Kevin , Durand Marie-Anne , Selby Kevin , Le Pogam Marie-Annick , Grazioli Véronique S. , Sanchis Zozaya Javier , Bodenmann Patrick , von Plessen Christian
Published: December 2022

Asylum seekers face multiple language, cultural and administrative barriers that could result in the inappropriate implementation of COVID-19 measures. This study aimed to explore their knowledge and attitudes to recommendations about COVID-19. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among asylum seekers living in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland. We used logistic regressions to analyze associations between knowledge about health recommendations, the experience of the pandemic and belief to rumors, and participant sociodemographic characteristics. In total, 242 people participated in the survey, with 63% of men (n = 150) and a median age of 30 years old (IQR 23–40). Low knowledge was associated with linguistic barriers (aOR 0.36, 95% CI 0.14–0.94, p = 0.028) and living in a community center (aOR 0.43, 95% CI 0.22–0.85, p = 0.014). Rejected asylum seekers were more likely to believe COVID-19 rumors (aOR 2.81, 95% CI 1.24–6.36, p = 0.013). This survey underlines the importance of tailoring health recommendations and interventions to reach asylum seekers, particularly those living in community centers or facing language barriers.
Complex moment-based methods for differential eigenvalue problems
Authors: Imakura Akira , Morikuni Keiichi , Takayasu Akitoshi
Published: December 2022

This paper considers computing partial eigenpairs of differential eigenvalue problems (DEPs) such that eigenvalues are in a certain region on the complex plane. Recently, based on a “solve-then-discretize” paradigm, an operator analogue of the FEAST method has been proposed for DEPs without discretization of the coefficient operators. Compared to conventional “discretize-then-solve” approaches that discretize the operators and solve the resulting matrix problem, the operator analogue of FEAST exhibits much higher accuracy; however, it involves solving a large number of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). In this paper, to reduce the computational costs, we propose operation analogues of Sakurai–Sugiura-type complex moment-based eigensolvers for DEPs using higher-order complex moments and analyze the error bound of the proposed methods. We show that the number of ODEs to be solved can be reduced by a factor of the degree of complex moments without degrading accuracy, which is verified by numerical results. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed methods are over five times faster compared with the operator analogue of FEAST for several DEPs while maintaining almost the same high accuracy. This study is expected to promote the “solve-then-discretize” paradigm for solving DEPs and contribute to faster and more accurate solutions in real-world applications.
Comparative life cycle assessment for the manufacture of bio-detergents
Authors: Villota-Paz Javier Mauricio , Osorio-Tejada José Luis , Morales-Pinzón Tito
Published: December 2022

The increasing consumption of cleaning products deteriorates water resources due to harmful components such as phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) compounds, oils, bleach, and acids, typical compounds in traditional detergents. The use of biodegradable detergents as an environmentally friendly alternative has been proposed in different regions. In Colombia, resolution 1770/2018 sets a minimum biodegradability rate of 60% for the surfactants present in liquid detergents, which would reduce to a similar extent the impacts on water after their use. However, the environmental impacts of the supply chain of these detergents and their raw materials have not been evaluated so far. This study presents an environmental life cycle assessment of petroleum-based liquid detergents and a comparison to traditional solid detergents, based on the ISO 14040 standard and the ReCiPe-2016 impacts assessment method. A novel bio-detergent containing anionic plant-based surfactants was proposed in this analysis. The impacts of packaging and the distribution of the product to consumers were also considered. Raw materials contributed to 91% of the total of 314 g of CO2 eq generated per liter of liquid detergent, where the production of fatty alcohol sulfate and PET packaging shared 78.8% and 12.2% of the total impact, respectively. It was also determined that 5.4 L of water are consumed and 0.09 g of P eq and 0.1 g of N eq are emitted per liter of detergent. This liquid detergent presented better environmental performance than traditional detergents in all the impact categories, except for the fossil resource scarcity category. The evaluated detergent would significantly mitigate the generation of negative effects on ecosystems. Moreover, the substitution of PET for HDPE packaging could reduce the impacts on freshwater eutrophication by 10%, although the carbon footprint can slightly increase, which could be compensated due to its higher recyclability rate. In contrast, the proposed bio-detergent would not have significant benefits and would negatively affect water consumption and land use in its supply chain.
A Reply to Haze’s Argument Against Arbitrary Reference
Authors: Meléndez Gutiérrez Sofía
Published: December 2022

This paper is a response to Haze’s brief argument for the falsity of the theory that instantial terms refer arbitrarily, proposed by Breckenridge and Magidor in 2012. In this paper, I characterise instantial terms and outline the theory of arbitrary reference; then I reconstruct Haze’s argument and contend that it fails in its purpose. Haze’s argument is supposed to be a reductio ad absurdum: according to Haze, it proves that a contradiction follows from the most basic tenets of the theory of arbitrary reference.  I will argue, however, that the contradiction in question follows not from these tenets, but from the surreptitious use that Haze makes of a self-referential expression. I conclude, consequently, that Haze’s argument is nothing more than an illustration of the well-known fact that self-referential expressions produce paradoxical results.
Who’s bored in school?
Authors: Golle Jessika , Flaig Maja , Jaggy Ann-Kathrin , Göllner Richard
Published: December 2022

In the literature, general cognitive ability has been discussed as one critical factor that shapes students’ boredom. In this study, we investigated the relationship between academic boredom and general cognitive ability in primary school students while also considering intrinsic value. We analyzed data from N = 2849 third graders from 188 German classrooms. We used structural equation models with latent variables to test for whether general cognitive ability and interest showed linear as well as nonlinear relationships with students’ boredom. The results showed that the association between general cognitive ability and boredom was almost negligible after controlling for students’ achievement as well as gender, age, and family background. However, both the linear and quadratic terms for students’ intrinsic value were statistically significant, indicating that students with low and students with high interest reported more boredom in class than students with average interest. The findings are discussed in light of expectations based on control-value theory and the domain specificity and situational specificity of control and value appraisals.
Multiple solutions of the Dirichlet problem in multidimensional billiard spaces
Authors: Gabor Grzegorz , Tomeček Jan
Published: December 2022

Dirichlet problem in an n-dimensional billiard space is investigated. In particular, the system of ODEs $$\ddot{x}(t) = f(t,x(t))$$

x
¨

(
t
)

=
f

(
t
,
x

(
t
)

)

together with Dirichlet boundary conditions $$x(0) = A$$

x
(
0
)
=
A

, $$x(T) = B$$

x
(
T
)
=
B

in an n-dimensional interval K with elastic impact on the boundary of K is considered. The existence of multiple solutions having prescribed number of impacts with the boundary is proved. As a consequence the existence of infinitely many solutions is proved, too. The problem is solved by reformulating it into non-impulsive problem with a discontinuous right-hand side. This auxiliary problem is regularized and the Schauder Fixed Point Theorem is used.
Investigation of the Potential Correlation Between RNA-Binding Proteins in the Evolutionarily Conserved MEX3 Family and Non-small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhang Ming , Cao Linfeng , Hou Gouxin , Lv Xiaodong , Deng Jingjing
Published: December 2022

Members of the MEX3 (muscle excess 3) family, uniquely characterised as mRNA binding proteins, play emerging roles in the post-transcriptional regulation of programmed biological processes, including tumour cell death and immune mechanisms, and have been shown to be involved in a variety of diseases. However, the role of MEX3 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we found no significant changes in the sequence and copy number of the MEX3 gene through analysis using the COSMIC database, revealing its stability during malignancy development. Its expression in NSCLC was examined using the Oncomine™ database, and the prognosis of each member gene was analysed by Kaplan–Meier. The results showed that overexpression of MEX3A, MEX3B, MEX3C and MEX3D was associated with significantly worse OS in patients with LUAD, while overexpression of MEX3D was also associated with significantly worse OS in patients with LUSC. Afterwards, we applied the Tumour Immunology Estimation Resource (TIMER) tool to assess the correlation between different MEX3 and infiltrative immune cell infiltration. Ultimately, we found that most MEX3 members were highly expressed in NSCLC, with high expression suggesting poor prognosis and correlating with immune cell infiltration. The complexity and heterogeneity of NSCLC was understood through MEX3, setting the framework for the prognostic impact of MEX3 in NSCLC patients and the development of new targeted therapeutic strategies in the future.
Junge Menschen in der Politikberatung
Authors: Kutscher Nadia , Schröer Wolfgang
Published: December 2022

Diese Einleitung in den Schwerpunkt „Junge Menschen, Politikberatung und Beteiligung“ skizziert kurz die Probleme, vor denen der Wunsch nach politischer Beteiligung von Kindern und Jugendlichen während der Covid-Pandemie stand und stellt dann die Beiträge des Schwerpunkts vor.