bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperglycemia and blood glucose deterioration are risk factors for severe COVID‐19 with diabetes: A two‐center cohort study
Authors: Xiao Fen , Zhou Ying‐Chu , Zhang Mei‐Biao , Chen Dong , Peng Shao‐Lin , Tang Hao‐Neng , Li Long , Tang Chen‐Yi , Liu Ji‐Yang , Li Bo , Zhou Hou‐De
Published: December 2021

We aimed to assess whether blood glucose control can be used as predictors for the severity of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) and to improve the management of diabetic patients with COVID‐19. A two‐center cohort with a total of 241 confirmed cases of COVID‐19 with definite outcomes was studied. After the diagnosis of COVID‐19, the clinical data and laboratory results were collected, the fasting blood glucose levels were followed up at initial, middle stage of admission and discharge, the severity of the COVID‐19 was assessed at any time from admission to discharge. Hyperglycemia patients with COVID‐19 were divided into three groups: good blood glucose control, fair blood glucose control, and blood glucose deterioration. The relationship of blood glucose levels, blood glucose control status, and severe COVID‐19 were analyzed by univariate and multivariable regression analysis. In our cohort, 21.16% were severe cases and 78.84% were nonsevere cases. Admission hyperglycemia (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.938; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.387–2.707), mid‐term hyperglycemia (aOR, 1.758; 95% CI, 1.325–2.332), and blood glucose deterioration (aOR, 22.783; 95% CI, 2.661–195.071) were identified as the risk factors of severe COVID‐19. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, reaching an area under ROC curve of 0.806, and a sensitivity and specificity of 80.40% and 68.40%, respectively, revealed that hyperglycemia on admission and blood glucose deterioration of diabetic patients are potential predictive factors for severe COVID‐19. Our results indicated that admission hyperglycemia and blood glucose deterioration were positively correlated with the risk factor for severe COVID‐19, and deterioration of blood glucose may be more likely to the occurrence of severe illness in COVID‐19.
Relative instantaneous reproduction number of Omicron SARS‐CoV‐2 variant with respect to the Delta variant in Denmark
Authors: Ito Kimihito , Piantham Chayada , Nishiura Hiroshi
Published: December 2021

The Omicron variant of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has become widespread across the world in a flashing manner. As of December 7, 2021, a total of 758 Omicron cases were confirmed in Denmark. Using the nucleotide sequences of the Delta and Omicron variants registered from Denmark in the GISAID database, we found that the effective (instantaneous) reproduction number of Omicron is 3.19 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.82–3.61) times greater than that of Delta under the same epidemiological conditions. The proportion of Omicron infections among all SARS‐CoV‐2 infections in Denmark was expected to exceed 95% on December 28, 2021, with a 95% CI from December 25 to December 31, 2021. Given that the Delta variant or variants less transmissible than Delta are dominant in most countries, the rapid increase in Omicron in the virus population may be observed as soon as the Omicron is introduced. Preparing proactive control measures is vital, assuming the substantial advantage of the transmission by Omicron.
Prevalence and impact of malnutrition on length of stay, readmission, and discharge destination
Authors: Lengfelder Lucy , Mahlke Sarah , Moore Lynn , Zhang Xu , Williams George , Lee Jenny
Published: December 2021

Background

Studies indicate one in three hospitalized patients are malnourished on admission; however, the documented malnutrition rate in acute care hospitals is often lower. This study measured prevalence of malnutrition on admission and correlated the relationship among malnutrition status, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, and readmission rate.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study was performed across nine tertiary care hospitals in Houston, Texas. Registered dietitians screened patients aged ≥18 years within 24 h of admission for two consecutive days per hospital. Malnourished patients were diagnosed using a modified version of the 2012 Consensus Statement from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND)/American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN). Data collected included demographics, LOS, discharge disposition, and 30‐day readmission status.

Results

In 416 patients, 31.7% were malnourished on admission. Malnourished patients were significantly older (67.8 vs 57.6 years;P< 0.001) and had a lower body mass index (26.2 vs 32.4;P< 0.001) than nonmalnourished patients. Malnourished patients had higher odds of having a LOS of ≥3 days (2.38 [95% CI, 1.45 to 3.88];P< 0.001) and higher odds of readmitting within 30 days (2.28 [95% CI, 1.26 to 4.12];P< 0.006) when compared with nonmalnourished patients. There were no significantly different clinical outcomes between moderately and severely malnourished groups.

Conclusion

The study successfully utilized the modified AND‐ASPEN criteria to show that approximately one in three patients presented with malnutrition on admission. Malnourished patients were more likely to have a longer LOS and more likely to be readmitted within 30 days.
Mindfulness enhances the values that promote sustainable consumption
Authors: Kaur Tavleen , Luchs Michael G.
Published: December 2021

Prior research has demonstrated the critical role of values in promoting sustainable consumption behaviors. However, research is needed to identify novel ways to influence these values so that consumers will act on them. The present research demonstrates a practical and underappreciated way to enhance the values that promote sustainable consumption behaviors. Specifically, we demonstrate that mindfulness has a positive relationship with biospheric and altruistic values (but not egoistic values), and that these values mediate the relationship between mindfulness and two distinct forms of sustainable consumption: socially conscious consumption and frugal (i.e., reduced) consumption. We employ a series of three studies with sample populations drawn from different countries, and we use multiple measures for each of our focal constructs to demonstrate the robustness of our findings. Our findings suggest that marketers and policy makers can integrate mindfulness into their promotion and education initiatives as a means to help consumers clarify their values and, thereby, increase levels of sustainable consumption.
“YOU POST, I TRAVEL.” Bloggers' credibility, digital engagement, and travelers' behavioral intention: The mediating role of hedonic and utilitarian motivations
Authors: Mainolfi Giada , Lo Presti Letizia , Marino Vittoria , Filieri Raffaele
Published: December 2021

Bloggers are becoming increasingly relevant in consumers' decisions, particularly travel decisions. This study has investigated the influence of bloggers across cultures and from different theoretical perspectives. Drawing upon source credibility, uses and gratification theory, and content engagement constructs, we propose an integrated model of bloggers' influence investigating the role of credibility, motivations and engagement in the information adoption process of travel blog readers. Results from a survey of Italian and American consumers show that blogger credibility positively influences hedonic and utilitarian motivations to read a blogger post, but it does not affect digital engagement. Further, hedonic and utilitarian motivations significantly affect blog engagement (utilitarian motivation's influence not significant in the Italian sample), which, in turn, positively influences both continued use and electronic word of mouth (eWOM). Moreover, continued use influences information adoption in both samples. The study contributes to knowledge about the interplay between source credibility, utilitarian and hedonic motivations, and engagement on consumers' intentions (i.e., information adoption, eWOM, continued use) in the context of blogging.
Terraced and 3D Pyramid‐Shaped Polymer Single Crystal via Low Temperature‐Assisted Microfluidic Technology
Authors: Li Shi , Li Zhihua , Wang Xiao , Zhan Pei , Gui Xuefeng , Hu Jiwen , Lin Shudong , Tu Yuanyuan
Published: December 2021

3D pyramidal polymer single crystals provide spatial gradient variations within the crystal molecules, and these variations facilitate the study of the relationship between structure and properties within the molecules of various complexes with anisotropic structures. As described herein, a low‐temperature‐assisted microfluidic pore channeling approach is proposed to prepare structurally ordered polymer single crystals. A mixture of dichloromethane and dimethyl sulfoxide is used as a prepolymer, and a liquid microfluidic technique is employed to grow the end‐functionalized polymers into 3D polymer single crystals. Through the ordered growth of single crystals, a personalized pyramidal pattern with a homogeneous structure is formed. To evaluate the mesh node density, low‐temperature growth time and substrate type are also investigated. Rectangular, pyramidal, and dendritic patterns are synthesized via low‐temperature single crystal growth. This work shows that low temperature‐assisted microfluidics provides a novel means to tune the 3D structure of polymer single crystals.
Quality of Life After Deep Brain Stimulation of Pediatric Patients with Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy: A Prospective, Single‐Arm, Multicenter Study with a Subsequent Randomized Double‐Blind Crossover (STIM‐CP)
Authors: Koy Anne , Kühn Andrea A. , Huebl Julius , Schneider Gerd‐Helge , van Riesen Anne K. , Eckenweiler Matthias , Rensing‐Zimmermann Cornelia , Coenen Volker Arnd , Krauss Joachim K. , Saryyeva Assel , Hartmann Hans , Haeussler Martin , Volkmann Jens , Matthies Cordula , Horn Annette , Schnitzler Alfons , Vesper Jan , Gharabaghi Alireza , Weiss Daniel , Bevot Andrea , Marks Warren , Pomykal Angela , Monbaliu Elegast , Borck Guntram , Mueller Joerg , Prinz‐Langenohl Reinhild , Dembek Till , Visser‐Vandewalle Veerle , Wirths Jochen , Schiller Petra , Hellmich Martin , Timmermann Lars ,   the STIM‐CP investigators
Published: December 2021

Background

Patients with dyskinetic cerebral palsy are often severely impaired with limited treatment options. The effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) are less pronounced than those in inherited dystonia but can be associated with favorable quality of life outcomes even in patients without changes in dystonia severity.

Objective

The aim is to assess DBS effects in pediatric patients with pharmacorefractory dyskinetic cerebral palsy with focus on quality of life.

Methods

The method used is a prospective, single‐arm, multicenter study. The primary endpoint is improvement in quality of life (CPCHILD [Caregiver Priorities & Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities]) from baseline to 12 months under therapeutic stimulation. The main key secondary outcomes are changes in Burke‐Fahn‐Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale, Dyskinesia Impairment Scale, Gross Motor Function Measure‐66, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), and Short‐Form (SF)‐36. After 12 months, patients were randomly assigned to a blinded crossover to receive active or sham stimulation for 24 hours each. Severity of dystonia and chorea were blindly rated. Safety was assessed throughout. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02097693.

Results

Sixteen patients (age: 13.4 ± 2.9 years) were recruited by seven clinical sites. Primary outcome at 12‐month follow‐up is as follows: mean CPCHILD increased by 4.2 ± 10.4 points (95% CI [confidence interval] –1.3 to 9.7; P = 0.125); among secondary outcomes: improvement in COPM performance measure of 1.1 ± 1.5 points (95% CI 0.2 to 1.9; P = 0.02) and in the SF‐36 physical health component by 5.1 ± 6.2 points (95% CI 0.7 to 9.6; P = 0.028). Otherwise, there are no significant changes.

Conclusion

Evidence to recommend DBS as routine treatment to improve quality of life in pediatric patients with dyskinetic cerebral palsy is not yet sufficient. Extended follow‐up in larger cohorts will determine the impact of DBS further to guide treatment decisions in these often severely disabled patients. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
β3‐Adrenoceptor, a novel player in the round‐trip from neonatal diseases to cancer: Suggestive clues from embryo
Authors: Filippi Luca , Pini Alessandro , Cammalleri Maurizio , Bagnoli Paola , Dal Monte Massimo
Published: December 2021

The role of the β‐adrenoceptors (β‐ARs) in hypoxia‐driven diseases has gained visibility after the demonstration that propranolol promotes the regression of infantile hemangiomas and ameliorates the signs of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Besides the role of β2‐ARs, preclinical studies in ROP have also revealed that β3‐ARs are upregulated by hypoxia and that they are possibly involved in retinal angiogenesis. In a sort of figurative round trip, peculiarities typical of ROP, where hypoxia drives retinal neovascularization, have been then translated to cancer, a disease equally characterized by hypoxia‐driven angiogenesis. In this step, investigating the role of β3‐ARs has taken advantage of the assumption that cancer growth uses a set of strategies in common with embryo development. The possibility that hypoxic induction of β3‐ARs may represent one of the mechanisms through which primarily embryo (and then cancer, as an astute imitator) adapts to grow in an otherwise hostile environment, has grown evidence. In both cancer and embryo, β3‐ARs exert similar functions by exploiting a metabolic shift known as the Warburg effect, by acquiring resistance against xenobiotics, and by inducing a local immune tolerance. An additional potential role of β3‐AR as a marker of stemness has been suggested by the finding that its antagonism induces cancer cell differentiation evoking that β3‐ARs may help cancer to grow in a nonhospital environment, a strategy also exploited by embryos. From cancer, the round trip goes back to neonatal diseases for which new possible interpretative keys and potential pharmacological perspectives have been suggested.
Bioavailability and Cardiometabolic Effects of Xanthohumol: Evidence from Animal and Human Studies
Authors: Neumann Hannah F. , Frank Jan , Venturelli Sascha , Egert Sarah
Published: December 2021

Xanthohumol is the main prenylflavonoid in hops and has been associated with a wide range of health benefits, due to its anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidative, and cancer‐preventive properties. Increasing evidence suggests that xanthohumol positively affects biomarkers associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review summarizes the effects of xanthohumol supplementation on body weight, lipid and glucose metabolism, systemic inflammation, and redox status. In addition, it provides insights into the pharmacokinetics of xanthohumol intake. Animal studies show that xanthohumol exerts beneficial effects on body weight, lipid profile, glucose metabolism, and other biochemical parameters associated with metabolic syndrome and CVDs. Although in vitro studies are increasingly elucidating the responsible mechanisms, the overall in vivo results are currently inconsistent and quantitatively insufficient. Pharmacokinetic and safety studies confirm that intake of xanthohumol is safe and well tolerated in both animals and humans. However, little is known about the metabolism of xanthohumol in the human body, and even less about its effects on body weight and CVD risk factors. There is an urgent need for studies investigating whether the effects of xanthohumol on body weight and cardiometabolic parameters observe in animal studies are reproducible in humans, and what dosage, formulation, and intervention period are required.
Three‐dimensional self super‐resolution for pelvic floor MRI using a convolutional neural network with multi‐orientation data training
Authors: Feng Fei , Ashton‐Miller James A. , DeLancey John O.L. , Luo Jiajia
Published: December 2021

Purpose

High‐resolution pelvic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is important for the high‐resolution and high‐precision evaluation of pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), but the data acquisition time is long. Because high‐resolution three‐dimensional (3D) MR data of the pelvic floor are difficult to obtain, MR images are usually obtained in three orthogonal planes: axial, sagittal, and coronal. The in‐plane resolution of the MR data in each plane is high, but the through‐plane resolution is low. Thus, we aimed to achieve 3D super‐resolution using a convolutional neural network (CNN) approach to capture the intrinsic similarity of low‐resolution 3D MR data from three orientations.

Methods

We used a two‐dimensional (2D) super‐resolution CNN model to solve the 3D super‐resolution problem. The residual‐in‐residual dense block network (RRDBNet) was used as our CNN backbone. For a given set of low through‐plane resolution pelvic floor MR data in the axial or coronal or sagittal scan plane, we applied the RRDBNet sequentially to perform super‐resolution on its two projected low‐resolution views. Three datasets were used in the experiments, including two private datasets and one public dataset. In the first dataset (dataset 1), MR data acquired from 34 subjects in three planes were used to train our super‐resolution model, and low‐resolution MR data from nine subjects were used for testing. The second dataset (dataset 2) included a sequence of relatively high‐resolution MR data acquired in the coronal plane. The public MR dataset (dataset 3) was used to demonstrate the generalization ability of our model. To show the effectiveness of RRDBNet, we used datasets 1 and 2 to compare RRDBNet with interpolation and enhanced deep super‐resolution (EDSR) methods in terms of peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) and structural similarity (SSIM) index. As 3D MR data from one view have two projected low‐resolution views, different super‐resolution orders were compared in terms of PSNR and SSIM. Finally, to demonstrate the impact of super‐resolution on the image analysis task, we used datasets 2 and 3 to compare the performance of our method with interpolation on the 3D geometric model reconstruction of the urinary bladder.

Results

A CNN‐based method was used to learn the intrinsic similarity among MR acquisitions from different scan planes. Through‐plane super‐resolution for pelvic MR images was achieved without using high‐resolution 3D data, which is useful for the analysis of PFDs.
Influence of ATOMS implant on the voiding phase of patients with post‐prostatectomy urinary incontinence
Authors: Ruiz Sonia , Virseda‐Chamorro Miguel , Salinas Jesús , Queissert Fabian , Arance Ignacio , Angulo Javier C.
Published: December 2021

Objective

To assess changes in voiding phase, especially urethral resistance after post‐prostatectomy urinary incontinence (PPI) treatment with the Adjustable TransObturator Male System (ATOMS).

Material and Methods

A longitudinal prospective study was performed on 45 men treated with ATOMS for PPI, with the intention to evaluate the changes produced by the implant on the voiding phase. Patients with preoperative urodynamic study were offered postoperative urodynamic evaluation, and both studies were compared. The following urodynamic date were evaluated: maximum voiding detrusor pressure, detrusor pressure at maximum flow rate, maximum flow rate (Qmax), voiding volume, post‐void residue, bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI), urethral resistance factor (URA), and bladder contractility index (BCI). The statistical analysis used were the mean comparison test for dependent groups (Student's t test) for parametric variables and the Wilcoxon test for non‐parametric variables. The signification level was set at 95% bilateral.

Results

A total of 37 patients (82.2%) used zero pads/day at the time of urodynamic postoperative evaluation and pad‐test evolved from 592 ± 289 ml baseline to 25 ± 40 ml (p = 0.0001). Significant differences were observed in Qmax (15 ± 8.3 before and 11 ± 8.3 after surgery; p = 0.008), voiding volume (282 ± 130.7 before and 184 ± 99.92 after surgery). BOOI (−12 ± 23.9 before and −2 ± 21.4 after surgery; p = 0.025) and BCI (93 ± 46.4 before and 76 ± 46.0 after surgery; p = 0.044). In no case did we observe postoperative bladder outlet obstruction, according to URA parameter below 29 cm H2O in all cases. There was not a significant variation either in post‐void urinary residual volume (15 ± 47.4 before and 14 ± 24.2 after surgery, p = 0.867).

Conclusions

The ATOMS implant induces a decrease of Qmax, voided volume, and bladder contractility and an increase of BOOI. However, our findings suggest that ATOMS device does not cause bladder outlet obstruction.
3D‐printed surface‐modified aluminum nitride reinforced thermally conductive composites with enhanced thermal conductivity and mechanical strength
Authors: Lee Seonmin , Park Dabin , Kim Jooheon
Published: December 2021

With the rapid miniaturization of electronic devices, novel thermally conductive composite materials are required for efficient thermal management. In this study, a straightforward strategy to fabricate thermally conductive composites, based on UV‐curable acrylate polymer using the DLP technique, was explored. Aluminum nitride (AlN), a ceramic filler with high thermal conductivity and mechanical strength, was functionalized with an acrylate bearing silane compound. This improved the interfacial adhesion between the filler and matrix, resulting in enhanced thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity of the composite with 30 wt.% modified AlN was 0.42 W/mK, which is 3.5 times higher than that of neat UV‐cured acrylate resin (0.12 W/mK). The tensile strength also increased from 13.9 to 20.8 MPa before and after surface treatment due to improved filler‐matrix compatibility. The study demonstrates that 3D‐printing can be easily integrated into the fabrication of thermally conductive composites and filler surface modification can effectively enhance the thermal and mechanical strength of the composite.
Use of hormonal contraceptives in perimenopause: A systematic review
Authors: Guerin Julie , Engelmann Alexandra , Mattamana Meena , Borgelt Laura M.
Published: December 2021

Hormonal contraceptives have been used in perimenopausal women to manage a variety of symptoms and prevent unintended pregnancy. However, it is unclear what contraceptive regimen is best for these women. To evaluate hormonal contraceptive methods in women experiencing perimenopause using two prespecified outcomes: perimenopausal symptom management and long‐term effects. A literature search of PubMed and EMBASE databases was performed (January 1990 to October 2021) using search terms “perimenopause” and “contraception.” Relevant full‐text articles in English were included. Fifteen clinical articles were reviewed: Fourteen were internationally based, and one study was conducted in the United States. Nine articles evaluated symptom resolution, and six of these nine reported statistically significant changes in favor of treating perimenopausal women with hormonal contraceptives compared with no treatment. Seven studies evaluated long‐term outcomes including bone loss and metabolic parameters, and six of these seven showed statistically significant improvements with hormonal contraceptives. Based on limited data and a lack of comparative studies, the use of a levonorgestrel intrauterine device with supplemental low‐dose menopausal estrogen has positive results for the management of disruptive perimenopausal symptoms and long‐term outcomes. Hormonal contraception in perimenopausal women improves symptom management and long‐term outcomes if patients do not have contraindications. When selecting a contraceptive for women in perimenopause, clinicians and pharmacists need to address specific patient risk factors, symptom profiles, long‐term risks and benefits, and patient preferences.
Opportunity for pharmacogenomic testing in patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Sakon Colleen , Alicea Leah A. , Patacca Heather , Brown Cynthia D. , Skaar Todd C. , Tillman Emma M.
Published: December 2021

Background

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) are exposed to many drugs in their lifetime and many of these drugs have Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) guidelines that are available to guide dosing. Contemporary CF treatments are targeted to specific mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, and thus, require patients to have genetic testing before initiation of modulator therapy. However, aside from CFTR genetic testing, pharmacogenomic testing is not standard of care for CF patients.

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine the number of non‐CFTR modulator medications with CPIC guidelines that are prescribed to patients with CF.

Materials & Methods

We identified all patients with a diagnosis of CF and queried our hospital electronic medical records (EMR) for all orders, including inpatient and prescriptions, for all drugs or drug classes that have CPIC actionable guidelines for drug–gene pairs that can be used to guide therapy.

Results

We identified 576 patients with a diagnosis of CF that were treated at our institution during this 16‐year period between June 2005 and May 2021. Of these patients, 504 patients (87.5%) received at least one drug that could have been dosed according to CPIC guidelines if pharmacogenomic results would have been available.

Conclusions

Patients with CF have high utilization of drugs with CPIC guidelines, therefore preemptive pharmacogenomic testing should be considered in CF patients at the time of CFTR genetic testing.
Trends in cystic fibrosis survival over 40 years in South Africa: An observational cohort study
Authors: Zampoli Marco , Kassanjee Reshma , Verstraete Janine , Westwood Anthony , Zar Heather J. , Morrow Brenda M.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Temporal trends in cystic fibrosis (CF) survival from low‐middle‐income settings is poorly reported. We describe changes in CF survival after diagnosis over 40 years from a South African (SA) CF center.

Methods

An observational cohort study of people diagnosed with CF from 1974 to 2019. Changes in age‐specific mortality rates from 2000 (vs. before 2000) were estimated using multivariable Poisson regression. Data were stratified by current age < or ≥10 years and models controlled for diagnosis age, sex, ethnicity, genotype, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection. A second analysis explored the association of mortality with weight and forced expiratory volume in 1 s reported as z‐scores (FEV1z‐scores) at age 5–8 years.

Results

A total of 288 people (52% male; 57% Caucasian; 44% p.Phe508del homozygous) were included (median diagnosis age 0.5 years: Q1, Q3: 0.2, 2.5); 100 (35%) died and 30 (10%) lost to follow‐up. Among age >10 years, age‐specific mortality from 2000 was significantly lower (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06, 0.29; p < 0.001), but not among age <10 years (aHR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.28, 1.64; p = 0.383). In children <10 years, Caucasian ethnicity was associated with lower mortality (aHR 0.17; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.63), and longer times since first PA infection with higher mortality (aHR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.68). Mortality was sevenfold higher if FEV1z was <−2.0 at age 5–8 years (aHR: 7.64; 95% CI: 2.58, 22.59).

Conclusion

Overall, CF survival has significantly improved in SA from 2000 in people older than 10 years. However, increased risk of mortality persists in young non‐Caucasian children, and with FEV1z <−2.0 at age 5–8 years.
Risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Shakkottai Aarti , Irani Sanaya , Nasr Samya Z. , O'Brien Louise M. , Chervin Ronald D.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Despite emerging data that suggest a high frequency and severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), few of them are referred for polysomnography. Little is known about which patients with CF are at increased risk for OSA and which sleep symptoms merit investigation.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective analysis of clinical and polysomnographic data from 2009, January 1 to October 31, 2020 in referred children and adults with CF.

Results

Among 74 patients (42 children, 32 adults) with CF, 39 (53%) had OSA. No age or sex differences emerged in OSA frequency. Mean apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) was higher among overweight/obese adults (n = 16) as compared with adults of normal weight or underweight (11.4 vs. 6.2; p = 0.005). Adults with (n = 10) versus without a crowded oropharynx had 13.0 times greater odds of OSA (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.4, 121.4; p = 0.02). Children with (n = 24) versus without tonsillar hypertrophy had a higher risk for OSA (OR = 5.2; 95% CI: 1.4, 19.8; p = 0.02), as did children with (n = 10) versus without symptomatic chronic sinusitis (OR = 5.8; 95% CI: 1.1, 32.1; p = 0.04). Neither snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, nor lung disease severity were associated with OSA.

Conclusion

Key risk factors for OSA may differ between children and adults with CF: upper airway pathology appears important in children and overweight/obesity or a crowded oropharynx in adults. Given the lack of sensitivity of snoring, daytime sleepiness, and lung disease severity, detection of OSA may require a low threshold for polysomnographic assessment in this vulnerable population.
Molnupiravir: A new candidate for COVID‐19 treatment
Authors: Pourkarim Fariba , Pourtaghi‐Anvarian Samira , Rezaee Haleh
Published: December 2021

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) emerged in late December 2019 in china and has rapidly spread to many countries around the world. The effective pharmacotherapy can reduce the mortality of COVID‐19. Antiviral medications are the candidate therapies for the management of COVID‐19. Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug with anti‐RNA polymerase activity and currently is under investigation for the treatment of patients with COVID‐19. This review focuses on summarizing published literature for the mechanism of action, safety, efficacy, and clinical trials of molnupiravir in the treatment of COVID‐19 patients.
A unified scale for the Auger parameter: Methodology and benefits
Authors: Castle James E.
Published: December 2021

The Auger parameter (AP) is a value extracted from the X‐ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS) by addition of the binding energy of a photoelectron, for a given element in the spectrum, to the kinetic energy of the Auger electron emitted as the resulting hole in the electronic structure is filled by an electron from one of the outer orbitals. The value of the AP is sensitive to the polarization of electrons in the orbitals of neighbouring ions towards the photo‐ionized atom and is thus related to other opto‐electronic properties of the material. A correlation had been shown between the refractive index and the AP of aluminosilicates and thus the ability to compare, on a single chart, the AP's of the Al and Si ions gave important structural information. This comparison was made possible by normalising the individual APs to a common zero‐point. In this contribution, the methodology employed is extended to a wider range of elements. The resulting ability, to compare and contrast the normalised AP, thus generated, greatly enhances the information available from XPS and thus relates it directly to the polarizability of the material's structure.
Nanoengineering of Tin Monosulfide (SnS)‐Based Structures for Emerging Applications
Authors: Zi You , Zhu Jun , Hu Lanping , Wang Mengke , Huang Weichun
Published: December 2021

In recent years, tin monosulfide (SnS), one kind of black phosphorus analogues, is of great interest owing to its unique properties, such as low cost, environmental compatibility, nontoxicity, earth‐abundance, etc., which merit it an ideal candidate for modern devices, such as batteries, sensors, and optoelectronics, among others. The controllable and precise synthesis of SnS‐based nanostructures with various crystal phases, sizes, and compositions holds great potential for high‐performance devices as crucial components. To further improve their performance for next‐generation devices, the nanoengineering of SnS‐based nanostructures has been extensively explored over the past decade. In this review, the latest research and progress on SnS‐based nanostructures, including 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D pure SnS nanostructures, and SnS‐based loaded, sandwiched or encapsulated models are comprehensively presented, focusing on their synthetic approaches, fundamental properties, and fascinating applications such as batteries and solar cells, catalysis (photocatalysis and electrocatalysis), optoelectronics, sensors, ferroelectrics, thermoelectrics, nonlinear properties, and biomedical applications. Finally, the critical challenges and constructive perspectives are discussed for further improvement of the SnS‐based nanostructures in these burgeoning fields.
Perylene Tetracarboxylic Acid Crosslinked to Silica Matrix that Enables Ultrahigh Solid‐State Quantum Yield and Efficient Photon Recycling for Holographic Luminescent Solar Concentrators
Authors: Talite Maria Jessabel , Huang Hsiu-Ying , Chen Zih-Fan , Li Wan-Lin , Cai Kun-Bin , Sevilla Russel Cruz , Soebroto Ruth Jeane , Lin Shiuan-Huei , Chou Wu-Ching , Yuan Chi-Tsu
Published: December 2021

Perylene derivatives possess large absorptivity and high quantum yields (QYs) and thus are promising luminophores for luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs). Unfortunately, severe aggregation‐caused quenching, poor solubility, and large reabsorption significantly reduce their solid‐state photoluminescence. To address these issues, perylene tetracarboxylic acid (PTCA) is prepared by hydrolyzing perylene tetracarboxylic dianhydride in sodium hydroxide, which is highly compatible with amino‐silane precursors for in situ sol–gel synthesis of the silica matrix. In this case, highly luminescent and transparent PTCA@silica composites are formed, in which PTCA mainly exists in the monomer species due to covalent crosslinking to silica network structures. Therefore, a near‐unity solid‐state QY of ≈90% is obtained even at elevated loadings and existence of reabsorption due to the preservation of monomer states and efficient photon recycling. To demonstrate their potentials in LSCs, large‐area LSCs () with laminated configuration are fabricated, yielding a high power conversion efficiency of 1.1%. To mitigate the escape‐cone losses, the LSCs can be integrated with holographic grating, reaching an ultrahigh edge‐emission efficiency of 90%.
The search for Schizosaccharomyces fission yeasts in environmental metatranscriptomes
Authors: Shraim Rasha , Nieuwenhuis Bart P. S.
Published: December 2021

Fission yeast is an important model organism in evolutionary genetics and cell biology research. Nevertheless, most research is limited to a single laboratory strain and knowledge of its natural occurrence is limited, which reduces our understanding of its life history and hinders isolation of new strains from nature. Understanding the natural diversity of fission yeast can provide insight into its genetic and phenotypic diversity and the evolutionary processes that shaped these. Here, we aimed to identify candidate natural habitats of fission yeasts by searching through a large collection of publicly available environmental metatranscriptomic datasets. Using a custom pipeline, we processed over 13,000 NCBI SRA accessions, from a wide range of 34 different environmental categories. Overall, we found a very low abundance of putative yeast transcripts, with most fission yeast signatures coming from the categories of ‘food’ and ‘terrestrial arthropods’. Additionally, a signal could be found in a variety of marine and fresh aquatic habitats. Our results do not provide a conclusive answer on the natural habitat of fission yeasts, but our analysis further narrows the range of locations where fission yeasts naturally occur.
A Novel Zn (II)‐Based Metal‐Organic Framework as a Highly Selective and Sensitive Luminescent Sensor for the Detection of Nitrofuran Antibiotics
Authors: Lu Mengting , Xiao Xiaoyan , Yu Shijiang , Lin Wenxin , Yang Yu
Published: December 2021

The abuse of antibiotics has led to serious environmental and health problems in the modern society. The detection on antibiotics with high selectivity and sensitivity is urgently needed. In this work, we synthesized a new zinc‐based metal‐organic frameworks, {[Zn3(TCPPDA)4] ⋅ 8DMF ⋅ 2H2O}n, namely ZJU‐126. The as‐obtained ZJU‐126 has demonstrated its usage as a platform of luminescent sensor for nitrofurazone (NZF) and nitrofurantoin (NFT) with strong quenching constants and low detection limits of 5.8×104 M−1 and 0.56 μM for NZF as well as 4×104 M−1 and 0.82 μM for NFT, respectively. Particularly, ZJU‐126 exhibits excellent selectivity, anti‐interference and recyclability. The possible mechanism involved has also been discussed.
Extended superconformal higher-spin gauge theories in four dimensions
Authors: Kuzenko Sergei M. , Raptakis Emmanouil S. N.
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Using the off-shell formulation for $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 conformal supergravity in four dimensions, we describe superconformal higher-spin multiplets of conserved currents in a curved background and present their associated unconstrained gauge prepotentials. The latter are used to construct locally superconformal chiral actions, which are demonstrated to be gauge invariant in arbitrary conformally flat backgrounds. The main $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 results are then generalised to the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
-extended case. We also present the gauge-invariant field strengths for on-shell massless higher-spin $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 supermultiplets in anti-de Sitter space. These field strengths prove to furnish representations of the $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal group.
Vacuum correlators at short distances from lattice QCD
Authors: Cè Marco , Harris Tim , Meyer Harvey B. , Toniato Arianna , Török Csaba
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Non-perturbatively computing the hadronic vacuum polarization at large photon virtualities and making contact with perturbation theory enables a precision determination of the electromagnetic coupling at the Z pole, which enters global electroweak fits. In order to achieve this goal ab initio using lattice QCD, one faces the challenge that, at the short distances which dominate the observable, discretization errors are hard to control. Here we address challenges of this type with the help of static screening correlators in the high-temperature phase of QCD, yet without incurring any bias. The idea is motivated by the observations that (a) the cost of high-temperature simulations is typically much lower than their vacuum counterpart, and (b) at distances x3 far below the inverse temperature 1/T, the operator-product expansion guarantees the thermal correlator of two local currents to deviate from the vacuum correlator by a relative amount that is power-suppressed in (x3T). The method is first investigated in lattice perturbation theory, where we point out the appearance of an O(a2 log(1/a)) lattice artifact in the vacuum polarization with a prefactor that we calculate. It is then applied to non-perturbative lattice QCD data with two dynamical flavors of quarks. Our lattice spacings range down to 0.049 fm for the vacuum simulations and down to 0.033 fm for the simulations performed at a temperature of 250 MeV.
On Singularities of Certain Non-linear Second-Order Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: Filipuk Galina , Kecker Thomas
Published: December 2021

The method of blowing up points of indeterminacy of certain systems of two ordinary differential equations is applied to obtain information about the singularity structure of the solutions of the corresponding non-linear differential equations. We first deal with the so-called Painlevé example, which passes the Painlevé test, but the solutions have more complicated singularities. Resolving base points in the equivalent system of equations we can explain the complicated structure of singularities of the original equation. The Smith example has a solution with non-isolated singularity, which is an accumulation point of algebraic singularities. Smith’s equation can be written as a system in two ways. We show that the sequence of blow-ups for both systems can be infinite. Another example that we consider is the Painlevé-Ince equation. When the usual Painlevé analysis is applied, it possesses both positive and negative resonances. We show that for three equivalent systems there is an infinite sequence of blow-ups and another one that terminates, which further gives a Laurent expansion of the solution around a movable pole. Moreover, for one system it is even possible to obtain the general solution after a sequence of blow-ups.
Automorphisms of n-Ary Groups
Authors: Dudek Wieslaw A.
Published: December 2021

Isotopies and autotopies ofn-ary groups are described. As a consequence, we obtain various characterizations of the group of automorphisms ofn-ary groups. We also determine the number of automorphisms of a givenn-ary group.
Narrative responsibility and artificial intelligence
Authors: Coeckelbergh Mark
Published: December 2021

Most accounts of responsibility focus on one type of responsibility, moral responsibility, or address one particular aspect of moral responsibility such as agency. This article outlines a broader framework to think about responsibility that includes causal responsibility, relational responsibility, and what I call “narrative responsibility” as a form of “hermeneutic responsibility”, connects these notions of responsibility with different kinds of knowledge, disciplines, and perspectives on human being, and shows how this framework is helpful for mapping and analysing how artificial intelligence (AI) challenges human responsibility and sense-making in various ways. Mobilizing recent hermeneutic approaches to technology, the article argues that next to, and interwoven with, other types of responsibility such as moral responsibility, we also have narrative and hermeneutic responsibility—in general and for technology. For example, it is our task as humans to make sense of, with and, if necessary, against AI. While from a posthumanist point of view, technologies also contribute to sense-making, humans are the experiencers and bearers of responsibility and always remain in charge when it comes to this hermeneutic responsibility. Facing and working with a world of data, correlations, and probabilities, we are nevertheless condemned to make sense. Moreover, this also has a normative, sometimes even political aspect: acknowledging and embracing our hermeneutic responsibility is important if we want to avoid that our stories are written elsewhere—through technology.
Bifurcation analysis of the predator–prey model with the Allee effect in the predator
Authors: Sen Deeptajyoti , Ghorai Saktipada , Banerjee Malay , Morozov Andrew
Published: December 2021

The use of predator–prey models in theoretical ecology has a long history, and the model equations have largely evolved since the original Lotka–Volterra system towards more realistic descriptions of the processes of predation, reproduction and mortality. One important aspect is the recognition of the fact that the growth of a population can be subject to an Allee effect, where the per capita growth rate increases with the population density. Including an Allee effect has been shown to fundamentally change predator–prey dynamics and strongly impact species persistence, but previous studies mostly focused on scenarios of an Allee effect in the prey population. Here we explore a predator–prey model with an ecologically important case of the Allee effect in the predator population where it occurs in the numerical response of predator without affecting its functional response. Biologically, this can result from various scenarios such as a lack of mating partners, sperm limitation and cooperative breeding mechanisms, among others. Unlike previous studies, we consider here a generic mathematical formulation of the Allee effect without specifying a concrete parameterisation of the functional form, and analyse the possible local bifurcations in the system. Further, we explore the global bifurcation structure of the model and its possible dynamical regimes for three different concrete parameterisations of the Allee effect. The model possesses a complex bifurcation structure: there can be multiple coexistence states including two stable limit cycles. Inclusion of the Allee effect in the predator generally has a destabilising effect on the coexistence equilibrium. We also show that regardless of the parametrisation of the Allee effect, enrichment of the environment will eventually result in extinction of the predator population.
Oligosarcomas, IDH-mutant are distinct and aggressive
Authors: Suwala Abigail K. , Felix Marius , Friedel Dennis , Stichel Damian , Schrimpf Daniel , Hinz Felix , Hewer Ekkehard , Schweizer Leonille , Dohmen Hildegard , Pohl Ute , Staszewski Ori , Korshunov Andrey , Stein Marco , Wongsurawat Thidathip , Cheunsuacchon Pornsuk , Sathornsumetee Sith , Koelsche Christian , Turner Clinton , Le Rhun Emilie , Mühlebner Angelika , Schucht Philippe , Özduman Koray , Ono Takahiro , Shimizu Hiroaki , Prinz Marco , Acker Till , Herold-Mende Christel , Kessler Tobias , Wick Wolfgang , Capper David , Wesseling Pieter , Sahm Felix , von Deimling Andreas , Hartmann Christian , Reuss David E.
Published: December 2021

Oligodendrogliomas are defined at the molecular level by the presence of an IDH mutation and codeletion of chromosomal arms 1p and 19q. In the past, case reports and small studies described gliomas with sarcomatous features arising from oligodendrogliomas, so called oligosarcomas. Here, we report a series of 24 IDH-mutant oligosarcomas from 23 patients forming a distinct methylation class. The tumors were recurrences from prior oligodendrogliomas or developed de novo. Precursor tumors of 12 oligosarcomas were histologically and molecularly indistinguishable from conventional oligodendrogliomas. Oligosarcoma tumor cells were embedded in a dense network of reticulin fibers, frequently showing p53 accumulation, positivity for SMA and CALD1, loss of OLIG2 and gain of H3K27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) as compared to primary lesions. In 5 oligosarcomas no 1p/19q codeletion was detectable, although it was present in the primary lesions. Copy number neutral LOH was determined as underlying mechanism. Oligosarcomas harbored an increased chromosomal copy number variation load with frequent CDKN2A/B deletions. Proteomic profiling demonstrated oligosarcomas to be highly distinct from conventional CNS WHO grade 3 oligodendrogliomas with consistent evidence for a smooth muscle differentiation. Expression of several tumor suppressors was reduced with NF1 being lost frequently. In contrast, oncogenic YAP1 was aberrantly overexpressed in oligosarcomas. Panel sequencing revealed mutations in NF1 and TP53 along with IDH1/2 and TERT promoter mutations. Survival of patients was significantly poorer for oligosarcomas as first recurrence than for grade 3 oligodendrogliomas as first recurrence. These results establish oligosarcomas as a distinct group of IDH-mutant gliomas differing from conventional oligodendrogliomas on the histologic, epigenetic, proteomic, molecular and clinical level. The diagnosis can be based on the combined presence of (a) sarcomatous histology, (b) IDH-mutation and (c) TERT promoter mutation and/or 1p/19q codeletion, or, in unresolved cases, on its characteristic DNA methylation profile.