bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation and Analysis of the Semi-Closed Solid Oxide CO2 Cycle (SOSCO2) for High Efficiency Ultra Low Carbon Power Generation
Authors: Martinelli Matteo , Campanari Stefano , Montinaro Dario , Martelli Emanuele
Published: October 2024

This work presents the simulation and techno-economic evaluation of the SOS-CO2 cycle, a novel hybrid cycle combining a pressurized solid oxide fuel cells with an oxy-turbine cycle. The cycle and its components are modelled and sized with the aim of assessing its performance and cost of electricity. A fuel cell design with high single-pass fuel utilization factor is considered. Sensitivity analyses on the fuel cell operating voltage and costs are performed to quantify their effects on the overall cycle performance. The results show that the cycle is expected to achieve outstanding net electric efficiency values, in the range 65.7%–69.3%, while capturing 95% of the generated CO2. The resulting specific CO2 emissions are as low as 15.9 gCO2/kWh. The cost of electricity is expected to be in the range 133 vs. 128.4 €/MWh (depending on the fuel cell voltage), a value competitive with the best available technologies for CO2 capture and storage.
Porous acoustic metamaterial for simultaneous control of high and low frequency machinery noise: Case study of a water pump
Authors: Pavan Golakoti , Singh Sneha
Published: October 2024

An acoustic metamaterial (AMM) consisting of a porous material (melamine foam) layer above a symmetrical labyrinthine metamaterial, incorporating a micro-hole and micro-slit cover plate, is proposed to simultaneously mitigate low and high frequency noise from industrial machineries. Theoretical model of sound absorption by this AMM is developed and validated numerically and experimentally. Sensitivity analysis indicates that increasing the length of the labyrinthine pathway and cover plate thickness and decreasing the slit width, slit length, and hole diameter shifts the peak sound absorption to lower frequencies. This material is successfully applied as a sound absorptive enclosure of a 0.5 hp water pump to reduce its sound pressure levels across widely separated frequencies of 1414–2245 Hz (high frequency) and 176–222 Hz (low frequency). This study offers guidelines to noise control engineers for controlling low and high frequency noise in industrial machineries.
Aeroacoustic and aerodynamic measurements at the rotor plane in the interaction of a small rotor with wings
Authors: Chen Mingtai , Liu Lucy , Chen Yuhan , Wimsatt Jacob
Published: October 2024

Current research on tiltrotor noise predominantly concentrates on configurations with high disk loading and Reynolds numbers, leaving smaller aircraft setups underexplored. This study investigates aeroacoustic and aerodynamic trends resulting from rotor-wing interaction at low disk loading (<100 N/m2) and Reynolds number (Re < 100 000). The experimental setup comprises an anechoic chamber housing a two-blade rotor, flat and National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics 0012 airfoil wings, an ATI mini 40 load cell for aerodynamic data acquisition, and microphones positioned at the rotor height and installed on a rotation stage for acoustic data capture and directivity check. Investigated factors encompass rotor height, rotation direction, revolutions per minute (RPM), and wing curvature. Contrary to expectation, wing curvature does not visibly impact rotor performance. However, the deflected rotor wake in rotor-wing interaction markedly amplifies low-frequency broadband noise and the overall sound pressure level for the tested scenarios. The presence and strength of the deflected rotor wake tend to obscure the primary tonal noise and mitigate the effect of rotor RPM at smaller rotor spacings. This study provides valuable insights into mitigating noise resulting from rotor wake impingement on the wing in smaller aircraft configurations, contributing to the ongoing evolution of urban air mobility design considerations.
Organizational Capacity and Implicit Bias in Experiential Learning
Authors: Ebron Kolin , Alonso Restrepo Julián , Morales A. Jaime , Dutta Sandeep , McGarry Jennifer E.
Published: October 2024

Tamara Bradley directs the Big City Roadrunners (BCR), a sport-based youth development organization that provides track and field, cross-country, and road race programming at no cost to youth. Recently, alumni of BCR have shared their perspectives with Ms. Bradley. The alumni have expressed their concern with the inconsistent level of engagement of college student volunteers from BCR’s partner, Atlantic University. Ms. Bradley reaches out to the new university partnership contact, Dr. Emily Taylor, to discuss volunteer training and management. Utilizing an organizational capacity framework, the case focuses on human resource capacity while also providing an opportunity to examine financial, relationships and networks, infrastructure and process, and planning and development capacity. The case also provides the opportunity to analyze the role that implicit bias plays in the partnership between BCR and Atlantic University.
Estimating the Reduction of Socioeconomic Inequalities for a More Physically Active Society: A Cross-Sectional Study of the European Union Country Members
Authors: Moreno-Llamas Antonio , De la Cruz-Sánchez Ernesto , García-Mayor Jesús
Published: October 2024

Background: Socioeconomic inequalities significantly impact the accessibility of resources necessary for physical activity, thereby influencing overall physical activity levels and contributing to broader health disparities. Nevertheless, evidence is lacking on quantifying the increase of people who would be physically active through reducing inequalities by a higher socioeconomic position. Methods: We conducted secondary data analysis on the 2017 cross-sectional survey of the European Union’s population aged ≥18 years (n = 27,538). By estimating socioeconomic status percentages and odds ratios between socioeconomic status (education, occupational social class, and economic issues) and physical activity, we calculated age-standardized Prevented Fraction for Population and the total number of individuals that would meet physical activity guidelines by a higher socioeconomic status (eg, from low to middle or high socioeconomic status), along with scenarios of reduced socioeconomic disparities, controlling for age, gender, place of residence, and marital status. Results: A higher socioeconomic status could promote physical activity for a total of 93.0 (84.5–101.8) million people through university education, 28.5 million via high-ranked occupations (24.6–32.8), and 137.9 (129.5–146.2) million by less economic issues (compared with primary education, low-manual occupations, and having economic issues most of the time, respectively)—equivalent to 35.46%, 14.49%, and 55.42% of the Prevented Fraction for Population. Reducing socioeconomic inequalities by 50% could raise these estimations to 148.1 million (134.0–162.8) through education, 43.5 million (37.5–50.3) through occupation, and 223.6 million (209.3–237.8) through less economic issues. Conclusions: Enhancing access to university education, high-ranked occupations, and income impacts physical activity population levels in the European Union.
What Do the Internet Memes About Physical Education Tell Us?
Authors: Semiz Kıvanç
Published: October 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the internet memes about physical education (PE) to understand how these digital artifacts represent the attitudes and perceptions toward PE. Method: Using the netnography approach, this is a qualitative study in nature. A total of 241 digital artifacts were collected from nine different digital platforms. A visual content analysis was implemented to understand the conveyed messages and meanings using the social cognitive theory as a framework, which emphasized that human behavior is determined by cognitive, situational, and behavioral factors. Results: Three main themes emerged along with their respective subthemes: “Behavioral Factor: Attitudes toward PE,” “Cognitive Factor: Attitudes toward PE Teacher,” and “Situational Factor: Social Climate in PE.” These findings provide insight into the varied perceptions and stereotypes surrounding PE in popular culture as reflected through internet memes. Discussion/Conclusions: Memetic communication has become an integral part of contemporary society, reproducing beliefs and attitudes. Internet memes can be considered as collective reflections of people on digital platforms, which may help to understand the joint online culture shaped around the attitudes toward PE.
Acute and Transient Match-Related Fatigue in University Female Footballers
Authors: Hearn Andrew N. , Parker John K. , Hicks Kirsty M. , Fernandes John F.T.
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to examine the acute fatigue response experienced by female footballers during and after match-play. Twenty university footballers completed three trials of a countermovement jump on a force platform pre- and post-match-play (35 observations). External and internal loads were recorded during match-play via global positioning systems (GPS) and heart rate (HR), respectively. Match-play loads were split into thirds and analyzed via linear mixed model. Pre- and postjump metrics (n = 16) were analyzed using a paired samples t test. Significant decrements were observed between the first and final third for all external load metrics apart from sprint distance and accelerations (p > .05). Relative concentric peak force (p = .035) was significantly increased postmatch, while a reduction was observed for relative concentric mean power (p = .034). The remaining 14 metrics did not display any significant changes (p > .05). The stability of countermovement jump (CMJ) performance pre- to postmatch alongside the reductions within match support the notion of transient fatigue. Moreover, coaches can use this data (i.e., transient fatigue) to inform tactics in female football (i.e., substitutions) and conditioning regimes.
Whole genome sequencing of a
Domibacillus
strain from the Cuatro Ciénegas basin that tends to act as an altruist
Authors: Aguilera-Najera Diego , Rodriguez-Cruz Ulises E. , Vazquez Brenda , Fernandez Christian , Martinez-Perez Eunice , Tapia-Lopez Rosalinda , Souza Valeria
Published: October 2024

Domibacillus
sp
. 8LH
is a whitish bacterium isolated from the pools of the Cuatro Cienegas Basin (CCB) in the state of Coahuila and belongs to the
Bacillaceae
family. It grows in circular colonies of about 6 mm in diameter and is capable of forming biofilms. This strain was identified because, in previous experiments in our laboratory, it presented altruistic interactions when co-cultured with bacteria of the genus
Bacillus
that participate in the nitrogen cycle. This altruistic behavior confers to this
Domibacillus
strain a potential use for the construction of bacterial consortia with diverse biotechnological applications.
Complete genome sequence of
Bacillus megaterium
strain DY294, a strain of
Bacillus
isolated from Arshan Resort in Hulunbuir
Authors: Deng Caixia , Zhao Yan , Mandlaa Mandlaa , Chen Yingsong , Yang Dezhi
Published: October 2024

The Arshan Resort is a unique mineral spring whose water is used in traditional Mongolian medicine to treat many kinds of diseases. Here, we report the genome sequence of
Bacillus megaterium
Strain DY294, a strain isolated from the Arshan water collected from Hulunbuir (117°40′ E, 48°54′ N), China.
Triplex real-time PCR ZKIR-T assay for simultaneous detection of the
Klebsiella pneumoniae
species complex and identification of
K. pneumoniae
sensu stricto
Authors: Ligowska-Marzęta Małgorzata , Barbier Elodie , Rodrigues Carla , Piveteau Pascal , Schrøder Hansen Dennis , Hartmann Alain , Møller Nielsen Eva , Brisse Sylvain
Published: October 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniae
species complex (KpSC) members, including the most important species
K. pneumoniae
(phylogroup Kp1 of the KpSC), are important opportunistic pathogens that display increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance worldwide. As they are widespread in food and the environment, there is a need for fast, sensitive, and reliable methods to detect KpSC members in complex matrices. Previously, the ZKIR real-time PCR assay was developed to detect all KpSC members without distinction. Given that Kp1 is the clinically most significant phylogroup of the KpSC, here, we aimed to simultaneously identify Kp1 while detecting all KpSC members. Three TaqMan probes were developed and used: the Kp1 probe to specifically identify this phylogroup; the
zkir
P1 probe to detect phylogroups Kp1–Kp5 and Kp7; and the
zkir
P2 probe to detect phylogroup Kp6. The new triplex assay was tested on a total of 95 KpSC and 19 non-KpSC strains from various sources, representing the different phylogroups as defined by whole genome sequencing. The results showed almost complete specificity, as the expected PCR results were obtained for 112 (98%) strains. The new triplex real-time PCR assay, called ZKIR-T, enables the detection of all KpSC taxa while discriminating Kp1, which will be useful for rapid screening and to focus downstream analyses on chosen phylogroups of the KpSC.

IMPORTANCE

The pathogens of the
Klebsiella pneumoniae
species complex are widespread in food and animals and are among the main pathogens responsible for multidrug resistant infections in humans. In this study, we developed a highly sensitive detection assay that enables detection of this group of bacteria, with the simultaneous identification of the most common and clinically important species. This triplex one-reaction assay was shown to be highly sensitive and precise, enabling fast screening of varied samples for the presence of KpSC and
K. pneumoniae
sensu stricto.
DNA metabarcoding analyses reveal fine-scale microbiome structures on Western Canadian bat wings
Authors: Insuk Chadabhorn , Cheeptham Naowarat , Lausen Cori , Xu Jianping
Published: October 2024

Healthy wings are vital for the survival and reproduction of bats, and wing microbiome is a key component of bat wing health. However, relatively little is known about the wing microbiome of bats in western Canada where the white nose syndrome has become an increasing threat. Here, we used DNA metabarcoding to investigate the bacterial and fungal communities on the wings of three bat species: the big brown bat (
Eptesicus fuscus
), the Yuma myotis (
Myotis yumanensis
), and the little brown myotis (
M. lucifugus
) from four field sites in Lillooet, British Columbia, Canada. The bacterial 16S rRNA metabarcoding revealed a total of 4,167 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) belonging to 27 phyla, 639 genera, and 533 known and 2,423 unknown species. The wing bacteria were dominated by phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and Actinobacteria, and the most common genera were
Delftia
,
Bordetella
,
Sphingomonas
,
Phyllobacterium
,
Bradyrhizobium
,
Pseudomonas
, and
Corynebacterium
. The fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) metabarcoding revealed a total of 11,722 ASVs belonging to 16 phyla, 806 genera, and 1,420 known and 10,302 unknown species. The wing fungi were dominated by phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Motierellomycota, and the most common genera were
Cladosporium
,
Aspergillus
, and
Mycosphaerella
. Principal coordinates analysis showed that both bat species and field sites contributed variably to the diversity and distribution of bacterial and fungal communities on bat wings. Interestingly, both positive and negative correlations were found in their relative abundances among several groups of microbial taxa. We discuss the implications of our results for bat health, including the management of
P. destructans
infection and white-nose syndrome spread.

IMPORTANCE

Microbiomes play important roles in host health. White-nose syndrome (WNS), a fungal infection of bat wings and muzzles, has threatened bat populations across North America since 2006. Recent research suggest that the skin microbiome of bats may play a significant role in bat's susceptibility to WNS. However, relatively little is known about the skin microbiome composition and function in bats in Western Canada, a region with a high diversity of bats, but WNS has yet to be a major issue. Here, we revealed high bacterial and fungal diversities on the skin of three common bat species in Lillooet, British Columbia, including several highly prevalent microbial species that have been rarely reported in other regions. Our analyses showed fine-scale structures of bat wing microbiome based on local sites and bat species. The knowledge obtained from WNS-naïve bat populations in this study may help develop mitigation and management strategies against WNS.
Development and optimization of a double antigen sandwich ELISA detecting for Senecavirus A antibodies based on VP2 protein
Authors: Chen Jie , Shi Zhengwang , Luo Juncong , Jia Caixia , Zhang Xiaoyang , Wei Juanjuan , Li Shuaipeng , Zhu Yuqian , Xi Tao , Zhou Jing , He Yindi , Shi Xintai , Liao Huanchen , Tian Hong , Zheng Haixue
Published: October 2024

Senecavirus A (SVA) is an emerging viral pathogen that threatens the global swine industry significantly. The major clinical symptoms of SVA-infected animals are vesicular lesions, but various diseases can cause the same symptoms, which makes it difficult to distinguish SVA from other vesicular diseases clinically. The absence of an effective and safe vaccine necessitates the development of a simple, specific, and sensitive serological detection method for SVA antibodies. The VP2 protein of SVA, characterized by high immunogenicity and sequence conservatism, is an essential target for serological diagnosis. In this study, a double-antigen sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA (DAgS-ELISA)] based on VP2 protein expressed by
Escherichia coli
was established for SVA antibody detection. With a cut-off value of 0.237, this assay demonstrated outstanding performance, showing high sensitivity and sharp specificity, which is manifested in the absence of cross-reaction with classical swine fever virus (CSFV), African swine fever virus (ASFV), pseudorabies virus (PRV), and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), and foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) serotype A and O. Additionally, the repeatability of the method is remarkable, as shown by the coefficients variation (CV) of both the intra- and inter-assay below 10%. By detecting 166 clinical sera, it was found that the kappa value of the DAgS-ELISA was 0.78 compared with that of the virus neutralization test (VNT), indicating a high level of consistency. In general, this method has high sensitivity, sharp specificity, remarkable repeatability, sound consistency, and low cost, making it a reliable and effective tool for detecting SVA antibodies.

IMPORTANCE

SVA has rapidly become prevalent in many countries, and its outbreaks have threatened the global swine industry significantly. The major clinical symptoms of SVA-infected animals are vesicular lesions that are similar to other vesicular diseases, making it difficult to distinguish SVA. Currently, no commercial vaccines are available for SVA; therefore, effective diagnosis of SVA infection is vital for its prevention and control. In this study, VP2 protein of SVA was expressed by
E. coli
, and a double-antigen sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA (DAgS-ELISA)] for SVA antibodies detection was successfully established based on the VP2 protein. The DAgS-ELISA has a high sensitivity, sharp specificity, remarkable repeatability, sound consistency, and low cost for detecting SVA antibodies. Therefore, the DAgS-ELISA established in this study may be a reliable and effective tool for detecting SVA antibodies and may be used to strengthen the monitoring and prevention of SVA epidemic in the long run.
Polyarteritis nodosa mimics Kawasaki disease
Authors: Alibrahim Ibrahim , Mirza Aisha , Khojah Amer
Published: October 2024

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rarely seen vasculitis that often affects small-sized and medium-sized arteries. PAN can present with diverse clinical features depending on the organs involved, including potential cardiac involvement. Typical cardiac manifestations of PAN in the paediatric age group include pericarditis, valvular heart disease and coronary artery aneurysms. In contrast to PAN, Kawasaki disease (KD) is often associated with coronary artery abnormalities. Herein, we report a case of a young boy presented with KD-like features, including a coronary artery aneurysm confirmed by an echocardiogram (ECHO) and eventually diagnosed as PAN. The patient was treated with steroids, methotrexate and tocilizumab with improvement of the symptoms. Repeated ECHO revealed the resolution of the coronary artery aneurysms. Our paper highlights a rare presentation of PAN mimicking KD presentation. Physicians should consider PAN in chronic or severe courses of KD or coronary artery aneurysms.
Associations of serial negative income shock and all-cause mortality: a longitudinal study in China
Authors: Xiao Nan , Li Ran , Li Shanshan , Yu Yudan , Yang Fan , Yang Jianan , Liu Gordon G , Lyu Beini
Published: October 2024

Introduction

With a precarious economic outlook and increasing income volatility in current times, understanding the association between negative income shock and health is crucial. However, few studies have examined such associations in developing countries. Using data from China, this study aimed to examine associations of both serial absolute income drops and relative income trajectory and mortality.

Methods

We included 4757 participants from the China Health and Nutrition Survey, a large prospective cohort study. Data between 1989 and 1997 were used to define income drops and relative income trajectories. We defined income drop as a decrease of ≥50% between two consecutive interviews and defined relative income trajectory using a latent class model. All-cause mortality between 2000 and 2015 was ascertained by participants’ family members.

Results

A total of 2066 (43.43%) experienced 1 income drop and 477 (10.03%) experienced ≥2 income drops. A total of 535 deaths occurred (incidence rate 8.88 per 1000 person-years). Income drops were associated with a greater risk of mortality after adjusting for baseline income, comorbidities, sociodemographic and behavioural factors (HR 1.42 (95% CI 1.04 to 1.93) for ≥2 income drops vs no income drop). The downshift in relative income was also associated with increased mortality risk (HR 3.61 (95% CI 1.45 to 8.96) for always low; HR 3.36 (95% CI 1.36 to 8.32) for decreasing; HR 2.92 (95% CI 1.14 to 7.51) for increasing vs always high relative income). The associations between income drops and mortality were observed only among individuals with low wealth and low household income.

Conclusion

In a large sample of the Chinese population with repeated income measurement and over 14 years of follow-up, both serial absolute income drops and a downward relative income trajectory were associated with higher risks of mortality in China. Priority should be given to policies aimed at enhancing resilience against serial income shocks and financial burdens.
Combined MRI, high-resolution manometry and a randomised trial of bisacodyl versus hyoscine show the significance of an enlarged colon in constipation: the RECLAIM study
Authors: Wilkinson-Smith Victoria , Scott Mark , Menys Alex , Wiklendt Lukasz , Marciani Luca , Atkinson David , Sansone Stefano , Zdanaviciene Ausra , Coupland Carol , Knowles Charles H , Dinning Philip , Taylor Stuart A , Gowland Penny , Hoad Caroline Louise , Corsetti Maura , Spiller Robin C
Published: October 2024

Background

Colonic motility in constipation can be assessed non-invasively using MRI.

Objective

To compare MRI with high-resolution colonic manometry (HRCM) for predicting treatment response.

Design

Part 1: 44 healthy volunteers (HVs), 43 patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and 37 with functional constipation (FC) completed stool diaries and questionnaires and underwent oral macrogol (500–1000 mL) challenge. Whole gut transit time (WGTT), segmental colonic volumes (CV), MRI-derived Motility Index and chyme movement by ‘tagging’ were assessed using MRI and time to defecation after macrogol recorded. Left colonic HRCM was recorded before and after a 700 kcal meal. Patients then proceeded to Part 2: a randomised cross-over study of 10-days bisacodyl 10 mg daily versus hyoscine 20 mg three times per day, assessing daily pain and constipation.

Results

Part 1: Total CVs median (range) were significantly greater in IBS-C (776 (595–1033)) and FC (802 (633–951)) vs HV (645 (467–780)), p<0.001. Patients also had longer WGTT and delayed evacuation after macrogol. IBS-C patients showed significantly reduced tagging index and less propagated pressure wave (PPW) activity during HRCM versus HV. Compared with FC, IBS-C patients were more anxious and reported more pain. Abnormally large colons predicted significantly delayed evacuation after macrogol challenge (p<0.02), impaired manometric meal response and reduced pain with bisacodyl (p<0.05).

Part 2: Bisacodyl compared with hyoscine increased bowel movements but caused more pain in both groups (p<0.03).

Conclusion

An abnormally large colon is an important feature in constipation which predicts impaired manometric response to feeding and treatment responses. HRCM shows that IBS-C patients have reduced PPW activity.

Trial registration number

The study was preregistered on ClinicalTrials.gov, Reference:NCT03226145.
Improving routine mental health screening for depression and anxiety in a paediatric lupus clinic: a quality improvement initiative for enhanced mental healthcare
Authors: El Tal Tala , Chen Audrea , Wong Stephanie , Jeyanathan Asha , Longmore Avery , Convery Holly , Finkelstein Dinah , Hiraki Linda , Kulkarni Chetana , Lerman Neely , Leslie Karen , Levy Deborah M , Lorber Sharon , Mwizerwa Oscar , Ng Lawrence , Rawal Vandana , Smith Evelyn , Toulany Alene , Knight Andrea M
Published: October 2024

Background

Mental health (MH) conditions are prevalent in adolescents with childhood-onset SLE (cSLE). Early identification is crucial in preventing poor patient outcomes; however, MH screening rates remain low.

Local problem

From July 2021–January 2022, only 15% of adolescents in a paediatric tertiary care cSLE clinic were being screened for depression and anxiety. By November 2023, we aimed to increase the percentage of patients with cSLE (≥12–18 years) screened for depression (Patient Health Questionnaire: PHQ-9) and anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7: GAD-7) from 15% to 80%.

Methods

This quality improvement project employed the Model for Improvement framework. Stakeholders included the clinic team, patients and families, and MH providers. Statistical process control charts were used to analyse the outcome measure for percentage of screened patients with cSLE. Patient and caregiver satisfaction surveys were conducted at baseline and after screening as a balancing measure.

Interventions

MH screening workflow with a referral algorithm was developed with stakeholders. Additional interventions included two MH training workshops for healthcare providers and a preclinic reminder of eligible patients for screening.

Results

Over 21 months, 146 patients with cSLE completed 270 MH screens, increasing the screening rate from 15%, peaking at 100%, to a median of 56%. Sixty-six individuals (45%) reported symptoms of depression and/or anxiety on their initial screen. Of 270 screens, 44 individuals (17%) reported moderate to severe symptoms meeting the screening workflow criteria for referral to a MH service; 10% of patients screened were referred and seen by the MH service within 2–12 weeks. Patients and caregivers reported satisfaction with the MH screening process and quality of MH follow-up.

Conclusion

Despite not sustainably meeting the target, MH screening rates increased in the cSLE clinic by nearly fourfold, demonstrating feasibility and acceptability. Patients expressed satisfaction with their mental health follow-up, emphasising its importance in their care.
Comparing outcomes of patients with early active rheumatoid arthritis initially treated on an inpatient or outpatient basis: a posthoc analysis of the CORRA trial
Authors: Mai Anna , Krause Dietmar , Klaassen-Mielke Renate , Meiszl Katharina , Timmesfeld Nina , Baraliakos Xenofon , Braun Jürgen
Published: October 2024

Objective

Treatment strategies of patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) vary within and between countries. While most patients in Germany are treated on an outpatient basis, some are hospitalised (inpatients). In the recently published randomised CORRA (CORRA, CORticoid bridging in Rheumatoid Arthritis) trial, we studied two 12 week glucocorticoid (GC) bridging strategies in patients with early RA comparing high or low GC doses with placebo, followed by an extension phase of 9 months. Here, in this posthoc analysis, we compared 12 week outcomes of patients according to their initial treatment as inpatients or outpatients.

Methods

Inpatients initially spent 2–5 days (short-term) or 14 days (long-term) in one tertiary rheumatology hospital. Outpatients were mostly treated in rheumatology practices. There was no randomisation regarding the initial treatment strategy. The main endpoint of this posthoc analysis was Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) remission at weeks 4, 8 and 12.

Results

Data of 280 outpatients and 95 inpatients could be analysed. Inpatients were more often male, had less cardiovascular comorbidity, but higher baseline CDAI scores and more symptoms of depression compared with outpatients. At weeks 8 and 12, CDAI remission was more frequently observed in inpatients (week 8: 24.7 vs 14.9%; week 12: 30.5 vs 17.3%). These results were confirmed in a multivariable model: OR=2.43 (1.06; 5.55); p=0.035, and OR=2.91 (1.37; 6.14); p=0.005, respectively.

Conclusion

In early active RA, initial inpatient treatment was associated with higher CDAI remission rates at weeks 8 and 12. This may be due to the initially more intense hospital care.
Osteonecrosis: photobiomodulation and photodynamic therapy – a systematic review
Authors: Benetti Rodrigo Antico , Belei Gabriela Biihrer , Pecoraro-Andrade Rafael , Oliveira Priscila Benitz Rios de , Santos Tânia Barbosa dos , Marcos Rodrigo Labat , Lino-dos-Santos-Franco Adriana , Rodrigues Maria Fernanda Setúbal Destro , Battistella Linamara Rizzo , Cecatto Rebeca Boltes
Published: October 2024

A wide range of adjuvant treatments have been studied to treat osteonecrosis. Photobiomodulation and photodynamic therapy are commonly used. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses systematic review was conducted to evaluate photobiomodulation and photodynamic therapy for the treatment of osteonecrosis related to the use of medications or related to ionising radiation. After searching PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS and Livivo Database, 2 systematic reviews, 4 prospective comparative studies, 10 comparative studies and 23 retrospective case reports were selected. Photobiomodulation-positive outcomes were observed in pain management and healing linked to osteonecrosis of the jaw due to antiresorptive drugs. Limited studies exist on photodynamic therapy and osteoradionecrosis. No adverse effects were reported. Despite the low quality of evidence, findings suggest that photobiomodulation may serve as an adjuvant therapy for osteoporotic patients, particularly those ineligible for surgery. Similar benefits were noted for oncological patients, but controlled trials evaluating cancer-related outcomes are lacking, emphasising the need for further research.
Family caregivers of children with cystic fibrosis: supportive care needs – scoping review
Authors: Shadi Danial , Jabraeili Mahnaz , Hassankhani Hadi , Alhani Fatemeh , Arshadi Bostanabad Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) in children requires complex and time-consuming daily care, presenting significant challenges for families and caregivers. Family caregivers caring for children with CF report diverse and complex needs.

Objective

This review aimed to identify the supportive care needs of family caregivers of children with CF.

Review methods

This scoping review was conducted to identify the supportive care needs of family caregivers for children with CF using the methodology proposed by Arksey and O’Malley. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews checklist was used as a guide. The inclusion criteria included full-text quantitative and qualitative English articles from January 2000 to Apr 2024.

Data sources

Structured searches were conducted using Magiran, MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, ScienceDirect, SID (Science Information Database), Web of Science and Google Scholar search engines.

Findings

A search across six databases, including Magiran (96), PubMed (680), Scopus (828), ScienceDirect (972), SID (Science Information Database) (47) and Web of Science (409), identified 3032 records. An additional 1185 related articles were found through a manual search of the reference lists and the Google Scholar search engine bringing the total to 4217. Out of 4217 initial articles, 21 eligible articles were reviewed. The findings from this study indicated that family caregivers of children with CF face multidimensional needs requiring comprehensive attention and support including educational/informational, psychological/emotional, spiritual, social, family-related, health and child development and growth needs.

Conclusion

Addressing the needs of family caregivers of children with CF requires a multidimensional approach including multidisciplinary team support across various domains.
Beyond the physical realm: exploring the relationship between spiritual well-being and spiritual care competence
Authors: Olmaz Dilek , Özden Gürkan , Parlar Kılıç Serap
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between nurses’ spiritual well-being and their competence in providing spiritual care, and to identify influencing factors among Turkish nurses.

Methods

A descriptive and correlative design was employed, involving 520 nurses from two hospitals in eastern Turkey. Data were collected online using Google Forms, which included a demographic questionnaire, the three-factor Spiritual Well-being Scale and the Spiritual Care Competence Scale. The study was conducted between August 2019 and June 2020.

Results

A significant positive correlation was found between nurses’ spiritual well-being and their spiritual nursing competence (r=0.320, p=0.019). Factors, such as work duration, marital status, patient load, experience, education and information, influenced these attributes. Ageing has also been found to reduce well-being and competence.

Conclusions

Nurses’ spiritual well-being and competence in providing spiritual care were moderately positively and significantly correlated. Education, experience and engagement in religious activities enhanced these attributes. Future research should explore additional influencing factors and incorporate spirituality into nursing education to improve the quality of holistic care.
Two pseudo-Goldstone bosons in the Gildener–Weinberg model
Authors: Ghorbani Parsa
Published: October 2024

In a dimensionless multi-scalar extension of the Standard Model, Gildener and Weinberg assumed that along a flat direction, there is only one classically massless scalar, known as the scalon, which acquires mass through radiative corrections à la Coleman–Weinberg, while all other scalars remain heavy. In this paper, by introducing a toy model with four scalar degrees of freedom we demonstrate the existence of two scalons along a specific flat direction that we construct. We present the effective potential for the model and provide the masses of the heavy scalars and two radiatively light pseudo-Goldstone bosons.
Criticality of global monopole charges in diverse dimensions
Authors: Cui Hong-Ming , Fan Zhong-Ying
Published: October 2024

In this work, we construct charged AdS black holes with a global monopole charge in diverse dimensions and study the thermodynamics. We find a critical monopole charge below which the solution exhibits Van-der Waals like behaviors. In the context of holography, this could be interpreted using the boundary degrees of freedoms. As an example, we study the phase diagram in the four dimensions analytically. We further analyze the microstructures of the solution using Ruppeiner geometry. We find that repulsive interactions dominates for black holes in a wide range of temperatures. However, around the critical point, attractive interactions is dominant and the Ruppeiner scalar curvature shows universal behaviors: it has a critical exponent 2 and coefficient $$-1/8$$

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in diverse dimensions. Universality of the results is interpreted from the scaling behavior of free energy near the critical point for Van-der Waals like fluids.
Applications of atomic data to studies of the Sun
Authors: Young Peter R.
Published: October 2024

The Sun is a standard reference object for astrophysics and also a fascinating subject of study in its own right. X-ray and extreme ultraviolet movies of the Sun’s atmosphere show an extraordinary diversity of plasma phenomena, from barely visible bursts and jets to coronal mass ejections that impact a large portion of the solar surface. The processes that produce these phenomena, heat the corona and power the solar wind remain actively studied and accurate atomic data are essential for interpreting observations and making model predictions. For the Sun’s interior intense effort is focused on resolving the “solar problem,” (a discrepancy between solar interior models and helioseismology measurements) and atomic data are central to both element abundance measurements and interior physics such as opacity and nuclear reaction rates. In this article, topics within solar interior and solar atmosphere physics are discussed and the role of atomic data described. Areas of active research are highlighted and specific atomic data needs are identified.

Graphical abstract

An image of a solar active region obtained with the 193 A channel of SDO/AIA, showing plasma at around 1.5 million degrees.
Issues and Opinions: A Rejoinder to
Authors: Wynn Donald E. , Williams Clay K.
Published: October 2024

In the preceding essay, the author presents a number of challenges regarding the philosophical positioning of critical realism (CR). Although we find the essay to indeed be thought-provoking and interesting, we also believe that several of his points are misrepresentative of CR. In the current response, we address his concerns and point out opportunities to improve CR research.
Feasibility and Clinical Application of 5-T Noncontrast Dixon Whole-Heart Coronary MR Angiography: A Prospective Study
Authors: Lu Hongfei , Miao Xiyin , Wang Dong , Zheng Xinde , Zhang Shiyu , Wang Rui , Li Guobin , Qian Xianling , Chen Yinyin , Hu Chenxi , Jin Hang , Zeng Mengsu
Published: October 2024

Noncontrast coronary MR angiography at 5 T shows potential to evaluate coronary artery calcium and coronary stenosis simultaneously and demonstrates superior diagnostic performance compared with at 3 T.
Targeting the gut and tumor microbiome in cancer treatment resistance
Authors: Ciernikova Sona , Sevcikova Aneta , Mego Michal
Published: October 2024

Therapy resistance represents a significant challenge in oncology, occurring in various therapeutic approaches. Recently, animal models and an increasing set of clinical trials highlight the crucial impact of the gut and tumor microbiome on treatment response. The intestinal microbiome contributes to cancer initiation, progression, and formation of distant metastasis. In addition, tumor-associated microbiota is considered a critical player in influencing tumor microenvironments and regulating local immune processes. Intriguingly, numerous studies have successfully identified pathogens within the gut and tumor microbiome that might be linked to a poor response to different therapeutic modalities. The unfavorable microbial composition with the presence of specific microbes participates in cancer resistance and progression via several mechanisms, including upregulation of oncogenic pathways, macrophage polarization reprogramming, metabolism of chemotherapeutic compounds, autophagy pathway modulation, enhanced DNA damage repair, inactivation of a proapoptotic cascade, and bacterial secretion of extracellular vesicles, promoting the processes in the metastatic cascade. Targeted elimination of specific intratumoral bacteria appears to enhance treatment response. However, broad-spectrum antibiotic pretreatment is mostly connected to reduced efficacy due to gut dysbiosis and lower diversity. Mounting evidence supports the potential of microbiota modulation by probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation to improve intestinal dysbiosis and increase microbial diversity, leading to enhanced treatment efficacy while mitigating adverse effects. In this context, further research concerning the identification of clinically relevant microbiome signatures followed by microbiota-targeted strategies presents a promising approach to overcoming immunotherapy and chemotherapy resistance in refractory patients, improving their outcomes.
TFEB signaling promotes autophagic degradation of NLRP3 to attenuate neuroinflammation in diabetic encephalopathy
Authors: Lin Yijia , Cheng Lizhen , Chen Yixin , Li Wei , Guo Qihao , Miao Ya
Published: October 2024

This article delves into the intricate connections between inflammation, autophagy, diabetes, and neurodegeneration, with a particular focus on a disease that is not yet fully understood—diabetic encephalopathy (DE). TFEB emerges as a pivotal regulator in balancing autophagy and inflammation in DE. Our findings highlight the crucial function of the TFEB-mediated autophagy pathway in mitigating inflammatory damage in DE, suggesting a new treatment strategy.
Longitudinal microcomputed tomography detects onset and progression of pulmonary fibrosis in conditional Nedd4-2 deficient mice
Authors: Leitz Dominik H. W. , Konietzke Philip , Wagner Willi L. , Mertiny Mara , Benke Claudia , Schneider Thomas , Morty Rory E. , Dullin Christian , Stiller Wolfram , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Mall Marcus A. , Duerr Julia , Wielpütz Mark O.
Published: October 2024

IPF diagnosis, particularly in early stages, remains challenging. In this study, micro-CT is used in conditional Nedd4-2−/− mice to closely monitor the onset and progression of progressive pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. Together with high-resolution post mortem micro-CT, this allowed us to track how nonspecific lung lesions develop into key IPF-like features. This approach offers a noninvasive method to monitor pulmonary fibrosis, providing a quantitative endpoint for the preclinical evaluation of novel antifibrotic strategies.
The relationships between age, sex, and exercise intensity on cerebral artery hemodynamics during isometric handgrip exercise
Authors: Koep Jodie L. , Bond Bert , Taylor Chloe E. , Barker Alan R. , Ruediger Stefanie L. , Pizzey Faith K. , Coombes Jeff S. , Bailey Tom G.
Published: October 2024

The influence of aging and sex on cerebral blood flow responses to isometric exercise are unknown. We observed intensity-dependent increases in velocity of the intracranial arteries, whereas the extracranial artery responses were similarly increased at all intensities during handgrip exercise in young and older individuals. Furthermore, we observed a blunted middle cerebral artery velocity response to handgrip exercise with advancing age, whereas the posterior circulation and extracranial responses were preserved across the lifespan in healthy individuals in males and females alike.
Prediction of Lycii Cortex Quality Marker Based on Network Pharmacology and Chemometrics Methods
Authors: Wang Xinrui , Li Guotong , Ding Haoqiang , Du Xiqin , Zhang Lanying , Zhang Jingze , Liu Dailin
Published: October 2024

Based on the effectiveness, measurability, and traceability of the quality marker (Q‐marker) theory of traditional Chinese medicine, the Q‐marker of Lycii Cortex (LC) was preliminarily predicted and analyzed. A UPLC–Q‐TOF‐MS qualitative analysis method for LC samples was established. A total of 44 LC chemical components, 16 plasma prototype components, 25 urine prototype components, and 27 fecal prototype components were identified. At the same time, the “component–target–disease” network diagram was constructed by network pharmacology to predict the potential active components of LC. A UPLC–MS/MS quantitative analysis method was established to determine the contents of 11 components such as kukoamine A in 35 batches of LC from seven producing areas. Principal component analysis, orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis, and other mathematical analysis methods were used to screen the differential components. Based on the comprehensive consideration of the Q‐marker traceability, transitivity, specificity, effectiveness, and measurability, kukoamine A and kukoamine B were preliminarily predicted as LC potential Q‐markers, and the high‐quality producing area was determined to be Chengcheng County, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province. The prediction analysis of the LC Q‐marker provides a reference for the comprehensive control of the quality of LC medicinal materials and also lays a foundation for the research and exploration of the substance basis and mechanism of action of LC.
A Case of Carcinosarcoma of the Peritoneum With Serous Tubal Intraepithelial Carcinoma
Authors: Kanemura Akiko , Morisada Tohru , Momomura Mai , Asano Fumio , Shibuya Hiromi , Matsumoto Hironori , Nagahama Kiyotaka , Shibahara Junji , Kobayashi Yoichi
Published: October 2024

In this case, a 66‐year‐old female patient presented with the chief complaint of abdominal distention. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed no enlarged ovaries or obvious primary lesions; however, massive ascites and peritoneal disseminated nodules were observed. Ascites cytology revealed adenocarcinoma and immunohistochemical findings suggested serous carcinoma. The patient then underwent tumor reduction surgery after preoperative chemotherapy for suspected Stage IIIC primary peritoneal carcinoma. Postoperative histopathology revealed carcinoma consisting mainly of high‐grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) and sarcoma. In addition, serous intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC) of the fallopian tube was observed in the fimbriae of the left fallopian tube. Recently, it has been noted in the literature that most cases of peritoneal carcinoma are metastases or dissemination of carcinoma originating from the fimbriae of the fallopian tube. This is a rare case of peritoneal carcinosarcoma with STIC, and its report leads to a better understanding of the disease’s features and possible therapeutic approaches.
Serum Adropin Levels Are Elevated in Patients With Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Wang Xin , Chang Xiaona , Wang Qiu , Ding Xiaoyu , Wang Jiaxuan , Cui Ruixiang , Wang Guang , Liu Jia
Published: October 2024

Objective: Adropin is a unique hormone, which controls metabolism and energy homeostasis. Hyperthyroidism is a disease with a high metabolic rate that affects both glucose and lipid metabolism. We aimed to investigate the change of adropin levels and the association between adropin levels and clinical parameters in patients with hyperthyroidism.

Methods: This cross‐sectional study comprised 90 newly diagnosed patients with hyperthyroidism and 90 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls. Circulating adropin levels and thyroid hormone levels were evaluated in each participant.

Results: Compared with the healthy controls, the hyperthyroid patients had significantly higher levels of serum adropin (p < 0.001). In addition, adropin levels were positively correlated with free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4), whereas they were negatively correlated with thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH). A multivariate linear regression analysis showed that serum adropin concentrations were independently correlated with FT3 and TSH after adjustment for age, gender, and other confounding factors (FT3: β = 0.231, p < 0.05; TSH: β = −0.301, p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Patients with hyperthyroidism had elevated serum adropin levels. And the serum adropin concentrations were independently correlated with the FT3 and TSH levels.