bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
National survey on the prevalence of single-gene aetiologies for genetic developmental and epileptic encephalopathies in Italy
Authors: Mei Davide , Balestrini Simona , Parrini Elena , Gambardella Antonio , Annesi Grazia , De Giorgis Valentina , Gana Simone , Bassi Maria Teresa , Zucca Claudio , Elia Maurizio , Vetri Luigi , Castellotti Barbara , Ragona Francesca , Mastrangelo Mario , Pisani Francesco , d'Orsi Giuseppe , Carella Massimo , Pruna Dario , Giglio Sabrina , Marini Carla , Cesaroni Elisabetta , Riva Antonella , Scala Marcello , Licchetta Laura , Minardi Raffaella , Contaldo Ilaria , Gambardella Maria Luigia , Cossu Alberto , Proietti Jacopo , Cantalupo Gaetano ,   LICE Collaborative Group, Trivisano Marina , De Dominicis Angela , Specchio Nicola , Tassi Laura , Guerrini Renzo
Published: November 2024

Background

We aimed to estimate real-world evidence of the prevalence rate of genetic developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) in the Italian population over a 11-year period.

Methods

Fifteen paediatric and adult tertiary Italian epilepsy centres participated in a survey related to 98 genes included in the molecular diagnostic workflows of most centres. We included patients with a clinical diagnosis of DEE, caused by a pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant in one of the selected genes, with a molecular diagnosis established between 2012 and 2022. These data were used as a proxy to estimate the prevalence rate of DEEs.

Results

We included 1568 unique patients and found a mean incidence proportion of 2.6 patients for 100.000 inhabitants (SD=1.13) with consistent values across most Italian regions. The number of molecular diagnoses showed a continuing positive trend, resulting in more than a 10-fold increase between 2012 and 2022. The mean age at molecular diagnosis was 11.2 years (range 0–75). Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in genes with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern occurred in 77% (n=1207) patients; 17% (n=271) in X-linked genes and 6% (n=90) in genes with autosomal recessive inheritance. The most frequently reported genes in the survey wereSCN1A(16%), followed byKCNQ2(5.6%) andSCN2A(5%).

Conclusion

Our study provides a large dataset of patients with monogenic DEE, from a European country. This is essential for informing decision-makers in drug development on the appropriateness of initiatives aimed at developing precision medicine therapies and is instrumental in implementing disease-specific registries and natural history studies.
Narrative futures of pregnancy sickness: reproduction, disability, animality
Authors: Jones Sophie A
Published: November 2024

In Sarah Hall’s short story ‘Mrs Fox’, a man wakes to find his wife, Sophia, vomiting. When Sophia’s nausea continues, he imagines her wasting from a rare cancer; instead, she mutates into a fox and, after a brief captivity at their home, leaves him for the woods, only to reappear months later with a litter he claims as his progeny. Sophia’s sickness is belatedly revealed as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), and her metamorphosis from human into fox seems to have been triggered by conception. NVP, or ‘morning sickness’ as it is colloquially known, tends to appear in culture as plot reveal or punchline but rarely as experience. This narrative marginalisation parallels the condition’s medical status. In its most severe form,hyperemesis gravidarum, NVP can lead to malnutrition and other serious health complications. However, the condition often goes untreated, a situation that has been linked to cultural fears of congenital disability in the wake of thalidomide. Long assumed to derive from the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, NVP is the subject of new genetic research that may hold the potential for new therapeutic interventions. Yet this research may also reinforce the theory that NVP is an evolutionary mechanism designed to isolate pregnant people from pathogens during the first trimester. In this article, I draw on this context to read ‘Mrs Fox’ as an ironic allegory of the ‘evolutionary safety net’ explanation for NVP. Drawing on work at the intersection of disability justice and reproductive justice, I argue that the therapeutic futures opened up by new research into NVP spotlight the need for closer attention to narratives of gestational sickness.
Occupational risk of salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis: a nationwide population-based registry study
Authors: Duijster Janneke W , Franz Eelco , Neefjes Jacques J C , Mughini-Gras Lapo
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Occupational exposure to animals and foods thereof is a poorly characterised risk factor for salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis, the main causes of bacterial gastroenteritis in the Western world. We performed a population-based registry study in the Netherlands to assess whether differences exist in the incidence of reported salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis cases among occupational groups, and whether they can be explained by differences in the magnitude of exposure to these pathogens, as defined by serology.

Methods

Person-level occupational data for all Dutch residents were linked to lab-confirmed salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis data, and to serological data from a previous national serosurvey. SIRs for salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis among occupational sectors and specific high-risk occupations were calculated based on the total employed population. Moreover,SalmonellaandCampylobacterseroincidence rates were compared among sectors and high-risk occupations.

Results

Occupational exposure to live animals or manure and working in the sale of animal-derived food products were associated with significantly increased risks of salmonellosis (SIR 1.55–1.82) and campylobacteriosis (SIR 1.36–1.65). Moreover, incidences were significantly higher in specific industrial sectors, as well as healthcare and social work sectors. Mean seroincidence rates ranged from 1.28 to 2.30 infections/person-year forCampylobacter, and from 0.36 to 0.99 forSalmonella, with only slightly higher rates for people in high-risk occupations.

Conclusions

Significant differences in reported salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis incidence exist among occupational sectors, with the highest incidence in those persons occupationally exposed to live animals. These differences are only partially reflected in the serology.
Oropharyngeal gonorrhoea among heterosexual men and women at a sexual health centre in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, 2023: reservoir for transmission?
Authors: Twisk Denise E , Klaassen Corné , van Westreenen Mireille , Götz Hannelore M
Published: November 2024

Background

Sexual health centres (SHCs) in the Netherlands report a surge in gonorrhoea, especially among young women (notably oropharyngeal) and men who have sex with women (MSW) since the second half of 2022. MSW are not routinely oropharyngeal tested, and women only when reporting oral sex. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess oropharyngeal gonorrhoea in MSW and women, and potential underdiagnosis.

Methods

From 10 August to 10 November 2023, the SHC in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, extended its gonorrhoea testing protocol, requiring oropharyngeal tests for all MSW and women. Positive cobas nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) results were followed by culture sampling. Oropharyngeal infections were confirmed with a second NAAT (opa gene-based PCR), and for discrepancies a third NAAT (GeneXpert CT/NG test) was employed. The impact of extended testing on detection rates, along with the corresponding 95% CIs, was analysed.

Results

The overall gonorrhoea detection rate was 6.4% (95% CI 4.7% to 8.8%) among MSW and 6.0% (95% CI 4.8% to 7.6%) among women, compared with 3.6% (95% CI 2.3% to 5.4%) and 6.0% (95% CI 4.8% to 7.6%) without expanded testing. Oropharyngeal rates were 6.4% (95% CI 4.4% to 9.2%) for MSW and 4.3% (95% CI 3.2% to 5.7%) for women. Highest positivity was among individuals notified, <25 years, without migratory background, with lower educational levels and more sex partners. Oropharyngeal cultures confirmed viable gonorrhoea in 39.1% of MSW and 35.5% of women. False positives were 7.4% among MSW and 10.8% among women. Confirmed oropharyngeal gonorrhoea positivity rate was 5.9% (95% CI 4.0% to 8.6%) among MSW and 3.9% (95% CI 2.8% to 5.2%) among women.

Conclusion

Oropharyngeal gonorrhoea is common and currently underdiagnosed among MSW. The impact of this underdiagnosis on transmission dynamics under the current testing policy remains unclear. Further research is needed to inform prevention and control strategies, especially given the recent surge in gonorrhoea.
Economic costs of tobacco-related diseases in Hong Kong in 2021
Authors: Ng Carmen S , Yu Coco Wing Sze , Leung Lancelot , Wong Eponine Kate , Ho Sai Yin , Ip Dennis K M , Wu Yongda , Wang Man Ping , Quan Jianchao
Published: November 2024

Background

Hong Kong has one of the lowest smoking prevalence both within China and among high-income economies. As tobacco use consistently declined over the past decades, we examine whether there are corresponding cost reductions.

Methods

Data were sourced from diverse population-wide datasets including government reports and public hospital records. Costs were calculated using Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 risk estimates for active smoking. Direct costs encompassed public and private healthcare expenses, while indirect costs included the value of years of productive life lost, days off work due to active smoking or secondhand smoke exposure, and long-term care costs.

Findings

Active smoking accounted for 26.3% of deaths in people aged 35 or over. Healthcare costs amounted to US$342 million and US$45 million for active and secondhand smoking. Annual tobacco-related diseases reached US$1.27 billion (0.3% of 2021 Hong Kong GDP). Compared with previous methods, the analysis using GBD 2019 risk estimates showed a twofold increase in lives lost due to active smoking but a 31.0% decrease for secondhand smoking.

Interpretation

Past studies greatly underestimate the health burden of tobacco compared with more recent data on the wider risks. Despite a decline in smoking prevalence, the total costs associated with smoking have risen as utilisation shifts from primary care towards more expensive specialist care. The long-term health and economic impacts of tobacco use remain substantial even in regions of China that have now achieved low smoking prevalence.
Assessing causal relationships between diabetes mellitus and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Moss Samuel T , Minelli Cosetta , Leavy Olivia C , Allen Richard J , Oliver Nick , Wain Louise V , Jenkins Gisli , Stewart Iain
Published: November 2024

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease of progressive lung scarring. There is a known association between diabetes mellitus (DM) and IPF, but it is unclear whether a causal relationship exists between these traits.

Objectives

The objectives of this study are to examine causal relationships among DM, diabetes-associated traits and IPF using a Mendelian randomisation approach.

Methods

Two-sample MR approaches, including bidirectional inverse-variance weighted random effects and routine sensitivity models, used genetic variants identified from genome-wide association studies for type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D), glycated haemoglobin level (HbA1c), fasting insulin level and body mass index (BMI) to assess for causal effects of these traits on IPF. Further analyses using pleiotropy-robust and multivariable MR (MVMR) methods were additionally performed to account for trait complexity.

Results

Results did not suggest that either T1D (OR=1.00, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.07, p=0.90) or T2D (1.02, 0.93 to 1.11, p=0.69) are in the causal pathway of IPF. No effects were suggested of HbA1c (1.19, 0.63 to 2.22, p=0.59) or fasting insulin level (0.60, 0.31 to 1.15, p=0.12) on IPF, but potential effects of BMI on IPF were indicated (1.44, 1.12 to 1.85, p=4.00×10−3). Results were consistent in MVMR, although no independent effects of T2D (0.91, 0.68 to 1.21, p=0.51) or BMI (1.01, 0.94 to 1.09, p=0.82) on IPF were observed when modelled together.

Conclusions

This study suggests that DM and IPF are unlikely to be causally linked. This comorbid relationship may instead be driven by shared risk factors or treatment effects.
A framework for simultaneous fit of QCD and BSM parameters with xFitter
Authors: Shen Xiao-Min , Amoroso Simone , Gao Jun , Lipka Katerina , Zenaiev Oleksandr
Published: November 2024

An extension of the xFitter open-source program for QCD analyses is presented, allowing for a polynomial parameterization of the dependence of physical observables on theoretical parameters. This extension enables simultaneous determination of parton distribution functions (PDFs) and new physics parameters within the framework of the Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT). The functionalities of the code are illustrated in a sensitivity study, where a simultaneous determination of the PDFs, top quark mass and the couplings of selected dimension-6 SMEFT operators is addressed using projections for measurements of top quark-antiquark pair production at the High-Luminosity LHC. The importance of considering all the correlations of the parton distributions, top quark mass and the SMEFT parameters in a simultaneous QCD+SMEFT analysis is demonstrated. This work serves as a new platform for simultaneous extraction of the PDFs and the SM/SMEFT parameters based on xFitter.
Hydrothermal transport of magnetized mono nanofluids between two spinning disks
Authors: Khan Shan Ali , Yasmin Sumeira , Waqas Hassan , Imran Muhammad , Alhushaybari Abdullah
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to describe the influence of magnetic nanofluid, with steady, incompressible flow, and heat transfer rate with thermal radiation and porous medium between two parallel stretchable rotating disks. The basic fluid (engine oil) which contains different nanoparticles (TiO2 and Ag) and its thermophysical properties are investigated. In order to convert the nonlinearly partial differential main equations into dimensionless ordinary ones, a method of appropriate similarity transformations has been used and then solved by using the bvp4c shooting scheme in MATLAB software to get the numerical solutions. The results of novel effective non-dimensional parameters obtained on appealing physical industrial interest are established by utilizing the tabular and graphic outlines. The numerical results reported here were matched to the current limiting results in the literature and found to be in good agreement. Additionally, the temperature field of the hybrid nanofluid was significantly improved when compared to the conventional nanofluid.
Integrability and multiple-rogue and multi-soliton wave solutions of the (3+1)-dimensional Hirota–Satsuma–Ito equation
Authors: Chu Jingyi , Liu Yaqing , Ma Wen-Xiu
Published: November 2024

This paper constructs a new [Formula: see text]-dimensional Hirota–Satsuma–Ito equation and employs the Hirota N-soliton condition to determine the conditions for the existence of N-soliton solutions. Under these conditions, the Hirota bilinear method is utilized to derive N-soliton solutions of the equation. Additionally, breather solutions of the equation are obtained through constraints on complex conjugate parameters, while lump solutions are derived using the long-wave limit method. Building upon these results, interaction solutions are also explored. Furthermore, through the multiple-rogue wave method, multi-rogue wave solutions of the [Formula: see text]-dimensional Hirota–Satsuma–Ito equation are investigated. A comparison between lump solutions obtained via the Hirota bilinear method and the multi-rogue wave solutions from multiple-rogue wave method reveals significant discrepancies.
Inertial drag role on Darcy Forchheimer flow of ternary nanofluid with interaction of radiative heat energy: Homotopy analysis method
Authors: Shamshuddin MD. , Saeed Anwar , Mishra S. R. , Panda Subhajit , S. Alruwaili Amani , Eid Mohamed R.
Published: November 2024

The ternary hybrid nanofluids have potential in different technological arenas such as biomedical engineering, solar energy, atomic reactors, the automotive industry, and heat pipes. Given these facts, along with the recent advancements in nanotechnology and their extensive applications, this research focuses on the MoS2-Fe3O4-ZrO2/CH3OH ternary nanofluid flow through bidirectional stretching sheets. We have transformed the coupled nonlinear partial differential equations for the advanced model into nondimensional ordinary differential equations using similarity transformations, and then semi-analytically apply the homotopy analysis methodology (HAM). We have displayed the physical features of potential factors graphically alongside the flowing factors based on velocity and temperature. We presented a physical evaluation in tabular format for the rate of heat transmission and compared the results with existing work to ensure their validity. These meaningful outcomes indicate that the axial fluid velocity is compressed by the magnetic interaction, inertial drag, porosity and stretchable ratio, while it is augmented by the Powell-Eyring factor and the changed Hartmann value. The effect of increasing transverse speed boosts inertial drag.
Analyzing variable characteristics effects on an unsteady hybrid nanofluid flow over a rotating sphere near a stagnation point with thermal stratification — A comparative study
Authors: Li Shuguang , Shahmir Nazia , Ramzan Muhammad , Alkarni Shalan , Kadry Seifedine
Published: November 2024

Efficient dissipation of heat is crucial in various heat transfer applications. Hybrid nanofluids outperform conventional coolants in both absorbing and transferring heat, rendering them ideal for cooling purposes in machinery, electronics, and various industrial processes. Given these intriguing properties of coolant-based hybrid nanofluid, this numerical study aims to analyze the unsteady flow of hybrid nanofluid around a rotating sphere with thermal stratification, and variable heat source and sink effects. This investigation incorporates aluminum alloys AA7072 and AA7075 as nanoparticles in the Fluorinert liquid named FC-72 base liquid. The AA7072 alloy is a composition of silicon, ferrous, and copper added to aluminum and zinc in the ratios of 98:1. Similarly, AA7075 comprises a combination of aluminum [Formula: see text], zinc [Formula: see text], magnesium [Formula: see text], and copper [Formula: see text], together with magnesium and silicon ferrous. What sets this model apart is its incorporation of variable porosity and permeability, along with temperature-dependent viscosity and thermal conductivity. The governing equations are converted into systems of differential equations, and a boundary value problem solver for ordinary differential equations of fourth order using the collocation (bvp4c) technique is employed to obtain the numerical solution. Two alternative scenarios for porous media — (i) constant porosity and permeability, and (ii) variable porosity and permeability — are determined for relevant parameters versus the velocity and temperature profiles. Additionally, the heat transfer rate is computed versus numerous parameters. It is perceived that secondary velocity profiles decrease more significantly with higher estimates of the variable viscosity parameter when a constant porous medium is assumed. Furthermore, the heat transfer rate of the FC-72-based hybrid nanofluid increases with higher estimates of the rotation parameter and the particle volume fraction of aluminum alloys.
An equivalent parameter method based on acoustic performances for predicting sound target strength
Authors: Luo Y. Q. , Hou H. L. , Zhang Y. B.
Published: November 2024

Sound target strength (TS) is one of the important indicators for measuring the acoustic stealth performance of underwater weapon platforms such as submarines and large unmanned underwater vehicles. The application of sound-absorbing structures is one of the key technologies for controlling the TS of underwater structures. The research on sound-absorbing metamaterials has emerged owing to the rapid development of acoustic metamaterials. Most sound absorption structures are implemented using local resonance models, which include thin-film metamaterials, curled space metamaterials, Helmholtz resonant cavities, local resonance scatterers, and so on. When these complex microstructures are applied to the surfaces of large underwater equipment, the finite element model for calculating TS has countless small mesh sizes due to the consideration of the fine features of the complex structures, resulting in a large number of meshes that are difficult to calculate or optimize. To solve this problem, the neural network deep learning model is utilized to extract the elastic equivalent parameters of complex sound-absorbing structures within a single period range based on the transfer matrix method of the elastic layer for the first time. This paper validates the typical homogeneous structures, composite sandwich structures, and composite structures with cavities. The errors in the TS values calculated from the original structures and the equivalent parameters are all within 2[Formula: see text]dB, taking the application of structures on a cylinder with a 0.5-m radius as an example. It demonstrates that these equivalent parameters can be used to accurately and quickly calculate the TS of complex sound-absorbing structures. The calculation method based on equivalent parameters proposed in this paper provides convenience and efficiency for the optimization design of structures pursuing lower sound target strength.
Chaos Through Sliding Bifurcations in a DC–DC Boost Power Converter
Authors: Cristiano Rony , Henao Marduck M. , Pagano Daniel J. , Ponce Enrique
Published: November 2024

Chaos in a DC–DC boost converter operating in discontinuous conduction mode when controlled by sliding mode control is detected. A route to chaos through sliding bifurcations is shown along with the coexistence of the chaotic regime with a stable operating point. A bifurcation analysis in the sliding vector field is carried out with the objective of defining a range of values for which control parameters guarantee the robustness of the system, at least locally. The analysis is based on the study of possible sliding bifurcations, that is, bifurcations inherent to the sliding dynamics. It is rigorously shown that there is an unstable limit cycle in the sliding dynamics due to a subcritical Hopf bifurcation. The existence of this limit cycle and its evolution with parameters turn out to be of great importance for the stability and robust control of this type of power converter.
Hopf Bifurcation of an Age-Structured Hand–Foot–Mouth Disease Model in a Contaminated Environment
Authors: Tang Yiming , Lian Hairong , Jing Shiwen , Ma Zhaohai
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we investigate an age-structured model of Hand–Foot–Mouth Disease (HFMD) in a contaminated environment. This paper characterizes both age structure and contaminated environment in the HFMD model and discusses their effects on the time delay in the conversion from exposed to infected individuals. By transforming the original model to an abstract nondensely defined Cauchy problem and utilizing the integrated semi-group theory, we establish the well-posedness of solutions. Then the existence and stability of equilibria are obtained on the basis of the basic reproduction number [Formula: see text]. It is proved that the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable if [Formula: see text]. Meanwhile, the endemic equilibrium is locally asymptotically stable with time delay [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, Hopf bifurcation occurs at endemic equilibrium when [Formula: see text]. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to validate our theoretical results.
Ultra-Chaos: A Great Challenge for Machine Learning and AI
Authors: Yang Yu , Liao Shijun
Published: November 2024

Machine Learning (ML) is highly data dependent. But all data contain noise. Especially for chaotic systems, due to the famous “butterfly-effect”, small disturbances can grow exponentially to the same order of magnitude as the physical solution so that numerical simulations of chaos become badly polluted. A fundamental and open problem is how data noise in chaotic systems influences short and long-term predictions of ML based on such badly polluted data. Ultra-chaos, whose statistics are sensitive to small disturbances, is a new concept in chaos theory. In this paper, the influence of data noise on ML of chaos is investigated in detail by comparing predictions with three ML models based on a “clean” dataset given by Clean Numerical Simulation (CNS), and a “badly polluted” dataset given by the traditional Runge–Kutta method. It is found that neither data noise nor ML prediction deviation influence the long-term statistics of ML predictions for normal-chaos. However, data noise has a significant influence on the statistics of ML predictions for ultra-chaos: this might pose a great challenge for ML that is a part of AI.
Recollements of Quiver Representations Induced by Evaluation Functors
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Huanhuan , Zheng Yuefei
Published: November 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be an arbitrary acyclic quiver and [Formula: see text] an abelian category satisfying [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be the category of [Formula: see text]-valued representations of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] its full subcategory consisting of representations with 0 at vertex [Formula: see text]. We construct a recollement of [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. If in addition, [Formula: see text] has enough projective and injective objects, and satisfies [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], then this recollement can be lifted to the derived levels. In the case that [Formula: see text] is finite and [Formula: see text] is the module category [Formula: see text] over some finite dimensional algebra [Formula: see text], we give several direct applications concerning the relationship between homological properties of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In particular, we find that the Cartan determinant conjecture always holds true for [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] an even number.
The cohomology of the classifying space of PU(4)
Authors: Fan Feifei
Published: November 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be the classifying space of the projective unitary group [Formula: see text]. We determine the integral cohomology ring of [Formula: see text], and the Steenrod algebra structure of its mod [Formula: see text] cohomology.
On the energy of some tree dendrimers
Authors: Rather Bilal Ahmad , Ganie Hilal A. , Imran Muhammad
Published: November 2024

For a graph [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] vertices and [Formula: see text] edges, the energy (or the adjacency energy) is the sum of the absolute values of the eigenvalues (or adjacency eigenvalues) of [Formula: see text], that is, [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the [Formula: see text] adjacency eigenvalue of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we discuss the characteristic polynomial and the energy of dendrimers. We first show the formula obtained for the characteristic polynomial and the energy of tree dendrimers considered in Bokhary and Tabassum [The energy of some tree dendrimers, J. Appl. Math. Comput. 68 (2022) 1033–1045] are incorrect. Using a different algorithmic procedure we will derive the correct formula for the characteristic polynomial and the energy of dendrimer [Formula: see text]. Further, we obtain the energy of [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], which partially answers a problem raised in Bokhary and Tabassum [The energy of some tree dendrimers, J. Appl. Math. Comput. 68 (2022) 1033–1045].
The Evolution of Public Companies’ Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Chen Mengxi , Niu Xu
Published: November 2024

We examine the evolutionary path of companies’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) since their debuts as public companies. We find that firms’ average CSR score is rising over the time they are listed in the public capital market. The phenomenon is likely driven by the number of years the firms have been in the public market. We further find supporting evidence that this pattern of rising CSR since the public listing is more pronounced when the firm is more profitable, holds more cash, has a higher payout ratio, or has more free cash flows. Overall, our findings support the hypothesis that improving CSR performance may not be the priority of most firms new to the public market, but the “public camera effect” is an effective mechanism to assure the growth of CSR assuming the firms remain in the public market.
The Diode–Resistor Circuit: A Simple Circuit with No Elementary Solution
Authors: Obaid A.
Published: November 2024

In this paper, the author will discuss the diode–resistor circuit and how such a simple circuit with only two components has no analytical solution in terms of standard elementary functions. Furthermore, the author will introduce a novel approximate solution for the problem in terms of elementary functions for practical applications. The derivation will only rely on algebraic manipulations and some properties of elementary functions. The paper will be of interest for undergraduate students as well as general physics instructors.
Altered sphingolipid profile in response to skeletal muscle injury in a mouse model of type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ouellette Jacob M. , Mallender Michael D. , Hian-Cheong Dylan J. , Scurto Daniel L. , Nicholas James E. , Trumble Stephen J. , Hawke Thomas J. , Krause Matthew P.
Published: November 2024

Muscle lipids become elevated, and the sphingolipid profile is altered by T1DM in skeletal muscle regeneration. A loss of S1P is accompanied by greater expression of sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase (SPL) in response to injury in Akita mice, suggesting a role for sphingolipids in the attenuated repair of skeletal muscle in T1DM rodent models. Although ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P) is increased with T1DM, there was no increase in ceramide kinase (CerK) suggesting an alternative route of ceramide phosphorylation in skeletal muscle.
Insect Vectors of Plant Viruses: Host Interactions, Their Effects, and Future Opportunities
Authors: Yigezu Wendimu Gebissa , Kassaye Gurmu Ashenafi
Published: November 2024

Plant viruses are endocellular, and they multiply inside their host plant cells. Outside of the host cells, they are acellular and cannot multiply and move to their hosts for reproduction. Plant virus use insect vectors to transmit and distribute from the infected farm to the next health plant or farms—especially the orders of Hemiptera, Thysanoptera, and Coleoptera are the vectors of plant viruses from infected to healthy plants. For instance, the hemipterans such as aphids, whiteflies, cicadas, spittle bugs, leafhoppers, assassin bugs, stink bugs, lygaeid bugs, and Thysanoptera (e.g., thrips) are the major vectors of plant viruses. Furthermore, the Aleyrodidae, Aphididae, Cicadellidae, and Delphacidae families of Hemiptera, the Chrysomelidae family of Coleoptera, and the Thripidae family of Thysanoptera were the most intriguing families of insects that vector plant viruses due to their behavior, short life cycles, easy interactions with their hosts, reproduction rapidly, and their feeding habits on a wide variety of host plants. The occurrence of these insect vectors in host plants decreased yield and led to malnutrition, reduced income, and reduced the marketability of the crops. Understanding the interactions between insect vectors, plant viruses, and crops is benefiting farmers in general for managing plant viruses and by managing insect vectors at large. Therefore, the objectives of this review are to address the insect vectors of plant viruses, host interactions, their effects, and put forward future opportunities. Finally, this review concluded that managing insect vectors at desirable stages, times, and places by available methods can manage plant viruses.
Longitudinal Associations Between Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms in Adolescence, Early Adulthood, and Old Age: Cross‐Lagged Panel Network Analyses
Authors: Wang Shoushi , Chong Zh Yeng , Zhang Chunyang , Xu Wei
Published: November 2024

Background: Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages. The co‐occurrence of these disorders often exacerbates their negative health impacts, underscoring the necessity of understanding their comorbid mechanisms.

Methods: This study employed cross‐lagged panel networks (CLPNs) to explore the longitudinal associations between depression and anxiety symptoms across three age groups and to compare the respective symptom networks. CLPNs were constructed through cross‐temporal associations between different symptoms, reflecting both the pattern of interaction and the significance of specific symptoms in comorbidity. The sample consisted of 1258 adolescents (aged 13–19 years, M = 15.98), 1118 college students (aged 17–24 years, M = 19.94), and 548 older adults (aged 60–101 years, M = 85.19) from China. Depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the subscales of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale Short Version (DASS‐21) at two time points over a 6‐month period during 2020–2021.

Results: The findings revealed that the prevalence of depression and anxiety in adolescents, college students, and older adults was 25.9%/46.6%, 53.7%/61.5%, and 7.2%/22.5%, respectively. The network structure varied across age groups: adolescents and college students exhibiting a tight interconnection between depression and anxiety symptoms, while older adults showed stronger small‐world network characteristics. A key finding across all age groups was the central role of irrational fear. In addition, somatic anxiety symptoms frequently emerged as outcomes of other psychological symptoms.

Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are more pronounced in college students compared to adolescents and older adults. Comparisons of the overall network structure provide insights into the lifelong trajectories of depression and anxiety symptom networks. The centrality of irrational fears and somatization symptoms is emphasized. These results offer guidance for more targeted clinical interventions.
Psychiatric Goals of Care at the End of Life: A Qualitative Analysis of Medical Records at a Geriatric Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic
Authors: Kullenberg Helena , Helgesson Gert , Juth Niklas , Lindblad Anna
Published: November 2024

Objectives: Person‐centered care emphasizes patient choice and autonomy and is considered an important means for improving the quality of care and quality of life for older adults with multiple chronic conditions and functional limitations. In implementing person‐centered care, goals of care based on the patient’s preferences are considered fundamental. Psychiatry is generally practiced in a curative paradigm, and little is known about the goals of care in geriatric psychiatric settings. In this study, goals of care as documented in care plans and medical records in geriatric psychiatric outpatient care have been explored, with a special focus on the end of life.

Methods: This study was based on a descriptive qualitative content analysis of medical records of patients enrolled at an outpatient clinic for geriatric psychiatry at the time of death. It was complemented by a basic quantitative analysis of patient characteristics.

Results: A total of 66 medical records were included, with a male/female ratio of 41/59% and a mean age of 83 years (66–104 years). Among psychiatric diagnoses, depression predominated. The dataset was generally limited, and clearly defined goals of care were sparsely presented. Therefore, the included medical records were analyzed twice: first regarding goals of care and second regarding patient wishes and requests. In both cases, the highest level of abstraction in terms of themes was achieved. Analysis of goals of care resulted in the themes patient well‐being and care arrangements. Analysis of patient wishes resulted in the themes active patienthood and living and being.

Conclusion: Goals of care were often disease‐oriented, focusing on recovery or symptom management, whereas analysis of patients’ wishes revealed personal goals other than remission, including outspoken existential needs. The results call for further research on the interplay between person‐centered care and the goal‐planning process and point to the potential of a palliative approach in geriatric psychiatric care involving patients with complex comorbidities and multilevel needs.
COVID-19-Related Spinal Subdural Hematoma Presented with Acute Compressive Myelopathy with a Review of the Literature
Authors: Al-Khalidi Hasanain A. , Hassoun Hayder K. , Aljid Zahra , Allebban Zuhair
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Neurological complication due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is accumulating and compressive myelopathy due to spinal subdural hematoma (SSDH) is rarely reported in association with COVID-19. Case Presentation: A 55-year-old male was presented with sudden onset of areflexic paraparesis, urinary retention, loss of all sensations below twelve spinal thoracic segments, and severe back pain. This condition necessitated an immediate order of a spinal cord MRI followed by an urgent surgery, which was crucial to save the spinal cord. COVID-19 was confirmed by a positive reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction and spinal MRI showed SSDH. Conclusion: For a patient who presents with acute onset of severe back pain and myelopathy without a history of trauma, SSDH should be suspected. Additionally, coagulopathy associated with COVID-19 infection should increase the suspicion of SSDH which needs immediate surgical treatment to save the spinal cord.
Contribution of Sex Steroids in Management of Tall Stature: Is it Effective or Not?
Authors: Akcan Nese , Verdecchia Federica , Hindmarsh Peter C. , Dattani Mehul
Published: November 2024

Background: Reduction in adult height by high-dose sex steroids was introduced decades ago. Here, we present the impact of lower doses of sex steroids on the predicted adult height in tall stature.
Methods: This single-center retrospective observational study included 22 tall children treated with low-dose sex steroids. Patients with familial tall stature, constitutional advance of growth or Marfan syndrome were included. Anthropometric measurements at the commencement of treatment, six-monthly intervals on treatment, cessation of treatment, and at final assessment, were evaluated. Bone age (BA) determination, and adult height predictions (PAH) were made using both the tables of Bayley-Pinneau (BP) and Tanner Whitehouse (TW) mark II methods.
Results: The standard deviation scores (SDS) of height over time were not statistically significant. The final height was significantly lower than the predicted height in girls whereas it was not significantly lower than predicted height in boys. In Marfan cases, the final height was only lower than the prediction of TW rather than BP. Non Marfan cases had significantly lower final height than both the predicted heights. Starting treatment in early BA (<10 years) did not affect the last height SDS or the difference between predicted height and final height.
Conclusion: Sex difference, sex steroid dosage, differences in treatment duration and differences in BA measurement method, PAH method, BA and chronological age at the start of treatment may all influence the therapy response. Shortcomings about these influences can be overcome in future prospective studies with a larger sample size.
Leiomyosarkom: Fortschritte in der Erstlinientherapie dank Kombinationstherapien
Authors: Gaidzik Verena I.
Published: November 2024

Die randomisierte LMS04 Studie der French Sarcoma Group zeigte, dass die Kombinationstherapie aus Doxorubicin und Trabectedin, gefolgt von einer Trabectedin-Erhaltungstherapie, das Gesamtüberleben (33 versus 24 Monate) und das progressionsfreie Überleben (12 versus 6 Monate) im Vergleich zur alleinigen Doxorubicin-Therapie bei Patient*innen mit metastasiertem oder nicht resezierbarem Leiomyosarkom verlängern konnte. Allerdings war die Inzidenz von Nebenwirkungen in der Kombinationsgruppe signifikant höher.
Whole Genome Sequencing of Brucella melitensis Isolates from Kuwait for the Identification of Biovars, Variants and Relationship within a Biovar
Authors: Mustafa Abu Salim , Khan Mohd Wasif , Habibi Nazima , Alfouzan Wadha
Published: November 2024

Objective: The identification of Brucella genotypes is essential for epidemiological studies. The whole genome sequencing is emerging as a novel tool for genetic characterization of infectious microbes. The aim of this study was to genotype B. melitensis isolates from Kuwait using whole genome sequencing and variant analysis of the sequence data.
Methods: DNA were purified from 15 heat-inactivated B. melitensis isolates and used to prepare sequencing libraries employing Nextera XT DNA Sample Preparation Kit (Illumina San Diego, CA, USA) and sequenced on a MiSeq (Illumina). The sequence files were aligned to three biovars of B. melitensis, i.e., biovar 1 str. 16M, biovar 2 str. 63/9, and biovar 3 str. Ether. The alignment and variant calling were performed using ‘bwa mem’ and SAMtools/VCFtools, respectively.
Results: The genome size of all the isolates was around 3.3 mega base pairs and resembled B. melitensis biovar 2. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions and deletions, (indels) were spread all over the genome; but 138 SNPs were common among the 14 isolates, supporting the same ancestral origin. A neighbor-joining tree analysis identified isolate 2 as an outlier. In addition, SNPs (2 - 478) specific to each isolate were also identified, which divided the B. melitensis biovar 2 into two major groups/genotypes. A further analysis showed that the Kuwaiti isolates of the present study shared phylogeny mainly with strains from the Middle Eastern countries.
Conclusions: Among the 15 isolates studied in Kuwait, biovar 2 is the most prevalent biovar of B. melitensis. Furthermore, isolate-specific genetic variations were identified, which may be useful in epidemiological investigations.
Early and late outcomes of ambulatory counter pulsation devices as a bridge to heart transplantation
Authors: Nishida Hidefumi , Jeevanandam Valluvan , Salerno Christopher , Nemoto Atsushi , Song Tae , Onsager David , Nguyen Ann , Grinstein Jonathan , Chung Bow , Sarswat Nitasha , Kim Gene , Ota Takeyoshi
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
The intravascular ventricular assist device is a newly developed ambulatory and portable counter pulsation heart assist system. The purpose of this study is to compare the early and late outcomes of counter pulsation devices between iVAS and axillary intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) as a bridge to heart transplantation.

Methods:
This is a single-center, retrospective study. Between April 2016 and March 2020, 24 patients underwent iVAS implantation (Group A), and 73 patients underwent axillary IABP (Group B) as a bridge to heart transplantation. We reviewed and compared perioperative data, as well as late survival outcomes.

Results:
There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics. All patients in Group A and 97.3% of patients in Group B were able to ambulate and participate in physical therapy(p=0.28). There were no in-hospital deaths in the two groups. The median duration of device support in Group A was significantly longer than in Group B(A:37.0days vs B:15.0days,p<0.01). After the US Food and Drug Administration approved the discharge of patients with an iVAS, four patients (4/14,28.6%) were discharged home with the device. The success rate of bridge to transplantation was not significantly different between the groups (A:21/24, 87.5% vs B:68/73, 93.2%, p=0.40). Late survival after heart transplantation also did not differ between the groups (A:85.7% at 3-year vs B:94.0% at 3-year, log rank=0.22).

Conclusions:
Both iVAS and axillary IABP showed comparable success rates of bridge to transplantation and late survival after transplantation. The mobile design of iVAS facilitated excellent ambulatory capability and enabled patients to be discharged home.
Pulsed Field Ablation of Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia: A Prospective Multicenter Single-Arm Study in China
Authors: Li Fanghui , Gong Aobo , Hu Hongde , Cui Kaijun , Yang Qing , Pu Xiaobo , Chen Shi , Jiang Jian , Fu Hua , Liu Hanxiong , Yin Yuehui , Zheng Qiangsun , Shu Maoqin , Gui Chun , Xu Jian , Yang Pingzhen , Ling Zhiyu , Wang Hongzhi , Yang Tingting , Yue Rongzheng , Gao Jinnian , Zhu Xiaolin , Shi Tiancai , Li Wentao , Hu Xianjin , Tong Yao , Zhang Qing , Zeng Rui
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) has gained attention in cardiac electrophysiology, but data on its application to paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia are limited. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of PFA and its combination with radiofrequency ablation for treating paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.

METHODS:

A prospective, multicenter, single-arm study was conducted across 8 centers in China. Patients with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia, atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia, or Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome underwent ablation using a focal point dual-mode PFA/radiofrequency ablation catheter. PFA was used to achieve acute ablation success, with consolidation using PFA for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia or near-His accessory pathways and radiofrequency ablation for far-His accessory pathways. Primary and secondary end points were acute ablation success and 180-day follow-up success, respectively.

RESULTS:

A total of 158 patients (77 with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia, 63 with atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia, 16 with Wolff-Parkinson-White, and 2 with both atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia and atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia) completed the trial. Acute ablation was successful in 157 patients (99.37%). The skin-to-skin procedure time was 89.9±35.5 min. The median number of PFA discharges was 12 (8–19) with a median effective PFA discharge time of 4.6 (3.2–6.4) ms. Five patients (4 with atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia and 1 with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome) experienced paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia recurrence during the 180-day follow-up period. One patient had a transient first-degree atrioventricular block resolving in 12 hours, and one patient had a transient third-degree atrioventricular block resolving in 24 hours. No permanent atrioventricular block or other adverse events occurred during the ablation procedure or 180-day follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS:

PFA demonstrated the feasibility of the treatment of SVT. Reversible first- and third-degree atrioventricular blocks were observed following ablation in one patient each. The preliminary results indicated the safety and feasibility of a combination of PFA and radiofrequency ablation treatment for atrioventricular accessory pathways although it is impossible to determine the relative contribution of PFA.