bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Randomized Rounding of Linear Programs to Obtain Unweighted Natural Strata that Balance Many Covariates
Authors: Brumberg Katherine , Small Dylan S. , Rosenbaum Paul R.
Published: May 2022

In causal inference, natural strata are a new compromise between conventional strata and matching in a fixed ratio, say pair matching or matching two controls to each treated individual. Like matching in a fixed ratio, natural strata: (a) do not require weights, (b) balance many measured covariates beyond those that define the strata and (c) provide closer balance for a measured continuous covariate coarsely cut to form strata. Unlike matching in a fixed ratio, the ratio of controls to treated individuals need not be an integer, so if the data permit a fixed ratio comparison of 1-to-2.5 or even 1-to-0.75, then these ratios are possible using natural strata. Optimal natural strata are defined by a moderate number of fixed strata plus an integer program that minimizes the imbalance in many other measured covariates that are not used to specify the strata. Solving large integer programs is computationally difficult. A tool in the theory of approximation algorithms is ‘randomized rounding of a linear program’ to produce an integer solution: a fractional solution to a linear program defines a probability distribution for an integer-valued random variable which is sampled. We apply this tool in a new way to produce natural strata and develop new properties of randomized rounding in this context. When proportional strata are impractical, we approximate them by minimizing the earthmover distance to proportionality. The method is applied to study birth outcomes for older and younger mothers in the United States in 2018. An R package natstrat is available at CRAN.
The acute effect of a laboratory shame induction protocol on endothelial function in young, healthy adults
Authors: McGarity‐Shipley Ellen C. , Lew Lindsay A. , Bonafiglia Jacob T. , Pyke Kyra E.
Published: May 2022

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Shame is a form of social stress that involves internalizing social devaluations imposed by others. The aim of this study was to determine, for the first time, how acutely experienced shame impacts endothelial function.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation, an index of endothelial function, was impaired after an intervention that acutely increased self‐reported shame. This occurred without increases in cortisol or tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor binding. Frequent or prolonged shame‐induced endothelial dysfunction could have important cardiovascular consequences.

The objective of this study was to examine the impact of a shame induction protocol on endothelial function. Fifteen participants (n = 7 men, n = 8 women) completed both a written shame induction protocol and a control protocol on two different experimental days. Pre‐ and post‐protocol we assessed: (1) endothelial function and arterial shear rate via a standard brachial artery reactive hyperaemia flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) test across two post‐intervention time points (15 and 35 min post); (2) perceived shame via the experiential shame scale (ESS); and (3) cortisol and soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor (sTNFαRII) through oral fluid analysis. Shame increased after the shame induction protocol (pre, 2.9 ± 0.6 vs. post, 3.7 ± 0.5, P < 0.001) but not the control protocol (pre, 3.0 ± 0.5 vs. post, 2.8 ± 0.5, P = 0.15; protocol by time interaction, P < 0.001). When all three time points were included in the analysis, %FMD did not change over time. Considering only the lowest post time point, %FMD decreased significantly in response to the shame protocol (pre, 4.8 ± 1.9 vs. post, 3.2 ± 1.6, P < 0.001) but not the control protocol (pre, 4.2 ± 1.8 vs. post, 3.8 ± 1.5, P = 0.45; protocol by time interaction, P = 0.035). Covariation of the shear rate stimulus for FMD did not alter the FMD results. When including both the control and shame protocols, but not the shame protocol alone, increased shame was significantly associated with decreased FMD (r = −0.37, P < 0.046). There were no significant time by protocol interaction effects for cortisol or sTNFαRII. In conclusion, temporary increases in shame might cause transient endothelial dysfunction which, if chronically repeated, could manifest as reduced vasoprotection against atherosclerosis.
A Steady-State Energy-Based Monte Carlo Method for Phonon Transport With Arbitrary Temperature Difference
Authors: Ran Xin , Wang Moran
Published: May 2022

A steady-state Monte Carlo scheme is developed for phonon transport based on the energy-based deviational phonon Boltzmann transport equation (PBTE). Other than tracking trajectories and time evolution of each packet in the transient methods, this steady-state method determines the paths of energy packets from being emitted to the steady-state through statistics of scattering probability. By reconsidering and developing the periodic heat flux boundary condition, we extend the capability of this method to systems with arbitrary temperature differences. This steady-state energy-based Monte Carlo (SEMC) method has been verified by comparing predictions with results from the previous discrete-ordinates method, the analytical solution, and transient MC methods for phonon transport in or across thin films. The present SEMC algorithm significantly improves the computational efficiency for a steady phonon transport process instead of time evolution by a transient algorithm.
Effect of Pressurization and Annealing on Hole Expansion
Authors: Nikhare Chetan P.
Published: May 2022

Due to the continuous push toward environmental regulations to reduce the impact on the environment, more sustainable manufacturing is in demand. Easily available material like iron-carbon based alloys are denser but exhibit higher strength and good formability. Alternatively, low dense materials have the potential to reduce the weight, but they lose the “easy-to-deform” spot. In addition, the traditional method to characterize the material is not sufficient to capture the material model which would accurately predict the complex nature of deformation. Thus, the present study is focused on how to make the material more deformable in the process by evaluating the parameters in deformation through the hole expansion process. For this study, four tests were chosen, namely hemispherical dome test, cylindrical tool test, conical tool test, and biaxial test. Except the biaxial test, all tests use the rigid tool punch to deform the hole. The cruciform specimen with a center hole was used to make the sample, which fits in all the considered tests. Force–displacement curves were plotted and discussed. In addition, tests were also performed on annealed materials to understand the hole expansion in ductile material. Based on the results it was observed that biaxial tests do not provide any pressurization effect and all tests which include the rigid tool to deform the hole doe. Due to the pressurization effect, the hole was expanded more. It was also noted that the hole expansion was more in ductile material and pressurization effect increases with ductile material.
The Role of the Product Design and Manufacturing System Dyad in Efficient Personalized Production
Authors: Rincón-Guevara Oscar , Samayoa Jorge A. , Panchal Jitesh H. , Deshmukh Abhijit
Published: May 2022

Product personalization will play a key role in the future of society by making these products available for everyone, everywhere. Personalized production requires the involvement of the customer in the design process. Thus, tools to identify which components and modules allow for customer interaction are needed, and to further assess the effects of customer interaction on the product design and the manufacturing system. In this article, we propose a framework to analyze the extent of personalization a designer and a manufacturing firm can achieve in the context of efficient personalized production. We study this as a dyad of product design and manufacturing system, which uses two main attributes: product modularity and manufacturing configuration complexity. To demonstrate our ideas, we use two applications. The first is a case study for gearbox, usually manufactured at high levels of efficiency under the mass production paradigm. The second case is an application for the footwear industry for the particular case of a sneaker, a sports shoe that is prone to be customized. These case studies show the flexibility of this framework to a wide set of industries. In both cases, we compare a personalization scenario with a baseline scenario and provide managerial insights.
An Analytic and Computational Condition for the Finite Degree-of-Freedom of Linkages, and Its Relation to Lie Group Methods
Authors: Müller Andreas
Published: May 2022

The finite degree of freedom (DOF) of a mechanism is determined by the number of independent loop constraints. In this paper, a method to determine the maximal number of loop closure constraints (which is independent of a specific configuration) of multiloop linkages is introduced and applied to calculate the finite DOF. It rests on an algebraic condition on the joint screws, which stems from the analytic condition that minors of certain rank and their higher derivatives vanish. A computational algorithm is presented to determine the maximal rank of the constraint Jacobian in an arbitrary (possibly singular) reference configuration. This algorithm involves screw products of constant screw vectors only. Unlike the Lie group methods for estimating the DOF of so-called exceptional linkages, this method does not rely on partitioning kinematic loops into partial kinematic chains, and it is applicable to multiloop linkages. The DOF computed with this method is at least as accurate as the DOF computed with the Lie group methods. It gives the correct DOF for any (possibly overconstrained) linkage where the constraint Jacobian has maximal rank in regular configurations. The so determined maximal rank has further significance for classifying linkages as being exceptional or paradoxical but also for detecting singularities and shaky linkages.
Three Degrees of Freedom-Based Master–Slave Uterine Manipulation Robot System for Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
Authors: Nguyen Van Sy , Hwang Bohyun , Lee Sangmin , Kim Sooyoung , Kim Byungkyu
Published: May 2022

A laparoscopic hysterectomy has been highlighted to early diagnose uterine and cervical cancers. Reflecting these needs, commercial uterine manipulators employing a kinematic linkage system without mechanical actuators have been developed. None of them have achieved versatile movements, enabling anteversion and retroversion articulation of the uterus together with translational motion. More recently, motorized uterine manipulators capable of versatile and multifunctional movements are proposed. They have shown a strong potential to alleviate the burdens that gynecological surgeons can experience. Building on these concepts, we propose a master–slave system-based uterine manipulation robot (UMaRo). The device features a simple mechanism with a larger workspace, achieved by combining translational motion together with roll and pitch motions. The UMaRo also has an ergonomically designed uterus-shaped handle which enhances ease of use and convenience during procedures. More importantly, the master–slave system enables surgeons to operate the manipulator with less force, thereby reducing operator fatigue. A linkage mechanism allows the UMaRo to accommodate a higher load capacity, a larger workspace, and makes the device simpler. Numerical analyses are performed to determine the specifications of the UMaRo. Based on the results, the UMaRo is designed and fabricated. Then, experiments are performed in a phantom uterus model to validate the UMaRo performance. Results demonstrated a lifting force of 13 N in the pitch motion and 45 N in the roll motion, and the movement of the master–slave system was found to be well-synchronized out–inside of the phantom.
Stiffness Modulation of a Cable-Driven Serial-Chain Manipulator Via Cable Routing Alteration
Authors: Sanjeevi N. S. S. , Vashista Vineet
Published: May 2022

Cable-driven serial-chain manipulators, CDSMs, are widely used from industries to human–robot interaction applications demanding diverse performance requirements. The CDSMs inherent characteristic of flexibility in altering system parameters facilitates the possibility of varying its performance as per the desired application and thus has been explored in the literature. Among the various performance measures, stiffness plays a vital role in manipulators interaction with unknown environments. Works in the literature reported varying CDSMs system parameters to tune the stiffness characteristics and highlighted the tensionable workspace’s sensitivity to the changes in the system parameters. The current work demonstrates the potential of co-shared cable routing in CDSMs along with a set of design conditions to provide a broader range of stiffness characteristics for a constant tensionable workspace. The results are presented using a planar two degrees-of-freedom (DOFs) CDSM, and the stiffness changes are validated experimentally. This outcome shows that CDSM with co-shared cable routing can render a wide range of stiffness behavior.
Mechanical Characterization of Compliant Cellular Robots. Part I: Passive Stiffness
Authors: Singh Gaurav , Nawroj Ahsan , Dollar Aaron M.
Published: May 2022

Modular active cell robots (MACROs) are a design paradigm for modular robotic hardware that uses only two components, namely actuators and passive compliant joints. Under the MACRO approach, a large number of actuators and joints are connected to create mesh-like cellular robotic structures that can be actuated to achieve large deformation and shape change. In this two-part paper, we study the importance of different possible mesh topologies within the MACRO framework. Regular and semi-regular tilings of the plane are used as the candidate mesh topologies and simulated using finite element analysis (FEA). In Part 1, we use FEA to evaluate their passive stiffness characteristics. Using a strain-energy method, the homogenized material properties (Young's modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson's ratio) of the different mesh topologies are computed and compared. The results show that the stiffnesses increase with increasing nodal connectivity and that stretching-dominated topologies have higher stiffness compared to bending-dominated ones. We also investigate the role of relative actuator-node stiffness on the overall mesh characteristics. This analysis shows that the stiffness of stretching-dominated topologies scales directly with their cross-section area whereas bending-dominated ones do not have such a direct relationship.
Torque Optimization Method of a 3-DOF Redundant Parallel Manipulator Based on Actuator Torque Range
Authors: Wu Jun , Qiu Jiahao , Ye Hao
Published: May 2022

The small actuator torque range brings advantages for the high-accuracy control of a manipulator. By taking the minimum actuator torque range into account, this paper proposes a novel torque optimization method of a 3-DOF redundantly actuated parallel manipulator for friction stir welding. The dynamic model of the 3-DOF redundant parallel manipulator with four kinematic chains is derived by using the principle of virtual work. The solution of the dynamics is not unique, and the range of four actuator torques constitutes a 4D generalized rectangle. A torque optimization method that minimizes the actuator torque range is presented by determining the generalized 4D rectangle with minimum side length. The proposed optimization method is a global solution corresponding to one trajectory of the moving platform, and it is compared with the least square method which is a local solution corresponding to one pose of the moving platform.
Numerical Investigation on the Heat Transfer Characteristics of Liquid Lithium Metal in a Bent Tube and Its Structure Optimization
Authors: Liu Yongfu , He Yi , Tan Peng
Published: May 2022

Liquid lithium is expected to be the promising coolant for the next generation of space nuclear reactor power sources, and pipe structures have critical impacts on the flow and heat transfer characteristics, whereas related studies are still incomplete. In this work, a steady-state non-isothermal heat transfer model with modified turbulent Prandtl number is developed for the turbulent flow of liquid lithium in elbows with different bends. The results demonstrate that liquid lithium has best performance in a 90 deg bend in the Pe range of 320–955, which has the highest heat transfer performance per unit pressure drop and exhibits the lowest entropy generation. Due to the difference in flow velocity between the inner and outer sides of the pipe, a high-temperature region exists in the inner-wall area from the pipe bend and migrates from the wall side to the center area in the exit area. When decreasing the flow velocity and increasing the wall heat flow density, a more significant increase in the percentage of the high-temperature region is demonstrated on the inner wall side of the pipe in the exit area of the bend. Under a given total length of L, the inlet length H with the H/L ratio of 0.025 has the minimum entropy generation within the unit pressure drop, and is the best U-tube structure. This work provides comprehensive investigations on flow and heat transfer characteristics of liquid lithium in bends and U-tubes and inspires practical applications.
Near-universal trends in brGDGT lipid distributions in nature
Authors: Raberg Jonathan H. , Miller Gifford H. , Geirsdóttir Áslaug , Sepúlveda Julio
Published: May 2022

Bacterial brGDGT lipids are a prevalent tool in studies of terrestrial paleoclimate. Their distributions correlate empirically with environmental temperature and pH, and their ubiquity in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments gives them wide applicability. Whether correlations with temperature and pH emerge due to a physiological response of source organisms and/or a shift in bacterial community composition remains an open question with important implications for proxy development and application. We applied a newly described technique for grouping brGDGTs to a globally compiled dataset (
n
= 3129) consisting of all modern sample media known to host brGDGTs. We found strong resemblances in the relationships between brGDGT fractional abundances and both temperature and pH across nearly all sample types examined. We also found near-universal connections between the brGDGTs themselves. Given the markedly different bacterial communities expected to inhabit these settings, these widespread relationships may suggest physiological and/or biochemical bases for observed brGDGT distributions.
Cross-modal perception of identity by sound and taste in bottlenose dolphins
Authors: Bruck Jason N. , Walmsley Sam F. , Janik Vincent M.
Published: May 2022

While studies have demonstrated concept formation in animals, only humans are known to label concepts to use them in mental simulations or predictions. To investigate whether other animals use labels comparably, we studied cross-modal, individual recognition in bottlenose dolphins (
Tursiops truncatus
) that use signature whistles as labels for conspecifics in their own communication. First, we tested whether dolphins could use gustatory stimuli and found that they could distinguish between water and urine samples, as well as between urine from familiar and unfamiliar individuals. Then, we paired playbacks of signature whistles of known animals with urine samples from either the same dolphin or a different, familiar animal. Dolphins investigated the presentation area longer when the acoustic and gustatory sample matched than when they mismatched. This demonstrates that dolphins recognize other individuals by gustation alone and can integrate information from acoustic and taste inputs indicating a modality independent, labeled concept for known conspecifics.
Ex silico engineering of cystine-dense peptides yielding a potent bispecific T cell engager
Authors: Crook Zachary R. , Girard Emily J. , Sevilla Gregory P. , Brusniak Mi-Youn , Rupert Peter B. , Friend Della J. , Gewe Mesfin M. , Clarke Midori , Lin Ida , Ruff Raymond , Pakiam Fiona , Phi Tinh-Doan , Bandaranayake Ashok , Correnti Colin E. , Mhyre Andrew J. , Nairn Natalie W. , Strong Roland K. , Olson James M.
Published: May 2022

Cystine-dense peptides (CDPs) are a miniprotein class that can drug difficult targets with high affinity and low immunogenicity. Tools for their design, however, are not as developed as those for small-molecule and antibody drugs. CDPs have diverse taxonomic origins, but structural characterization is lacking. Here, we adapted Iterative Threading ASSEmbly Refinement (I-TASSER) and Rosetta protein modeling software for structural prediction of 4298 CDP scaffolds and performed in silico prescreening for CDP binders to targets of interest. Mammalian display screening of a library of docking-enriched, methionine and tyrosine scanned (DEMYS) CDPs against PD-L1 yielded binders from four distinct CDP scaffolds. One was affinity-matured, and cocrystallography yielded a high-affinity (
K
D
= 202 pM) PD-L1–binding CDP that competes with PD-1 for PD-L1 binding. Its subsequent incorporation into a CD3-binding bispecific T cell engager produced a molecule with pM-range in vitro T cell killing potency and which substantially extends survival in two different xenograft tumor-bearing mouse models. Both in vitro and in vivo, the CDP-incorporating bispecific molecule outperformed a comparator antibody-based molecule. This CDP modeling and DEMYS technique can accelerate CDP therapeutic development.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Limosilactobacillus reuteri
Strain VHProbi E18, Isolated from Feces of an Old Man
Authors: Cui Hongchang , Duan Zhi
Published: May 2022

Limosilactobacillus reuteri
strain VHProbi E18 is a Chinese commercial lactic acid bacterium with several probiotic functions. Here, we report the whole-genome sequence of this bacterium. The whole-genome sequencing yielded a 2,040,678-bp genome and 2,015 protein-coding genes.
Race, the Vaginal Microbiome, and Spontaneous Preterm Birth
Authors: Sun Shan , Serrano Myrna G. , Fettweis Jennifer M. , Basta Patricia , Rosen Emma , Ludwig Kim , Sorgen Alicia A. , Blakley Ivory C. , Wu Michael C. , Dole Nancy , Thorp John M. , Siega-Riz Anna Maria , Buck Gregory A. , Fodor Anthony A. , Engel Stephanie M.
Published: May 2022

Approximately 10% of all pregnancies in the United States end in preterm birth, and over 14% of pregnancies end in preterm birth among Black women. Knowledge on the associations between vaginal microbiome and preterm birth is important for understanding the potential cause and assessing risk of preterm birth.
Putative Host-Derived Insertions in the Genomes of Circulating SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Yang Yiyan , Dufault-Thompson Keith , Salgado Fontenele Rafaela , Jiang Xiaofang
Published: May 2022

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 genomes has revealed the presence of insertions in multiple globally circulating lineages of SARS-CoV-2, including the Omicron variant. The human genome has been suggested to be the source of some of the larger insertions, but evidence for this kind of event occurring is still lacking.
DDX5/METTL3-METTL14/YTHDF2 Axis Regulates Replication of Influenza A Virus
Authors: Zhao Lingcai , Zhao Yongzhen , Liu Qingzheng , Huang Jingjin , Lu Yuanlu , Ping Jihui
Published: May 2022

The replication and transcription of influenza virus depends on the participation of many host factors in cells. Exploring the relationship between viruses and host factors will help us fully understand the characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms of influenza viruses.
SevereBartonella henselaebone infection in a kidney transplanted young man
Authors: Christensen Heidi Dahl , Madelung Ann Brinch , Nielsen Anne Lerberg , Knudtzen Fredrikke Christie
Published: May 2022

We present a case of a young kidney transplanted man. He was admitted with lymphadenopathy, fluctuating fever and night sweats 2 months after a cat bite. After admission, he developed severe pain around his right hip. An18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography/CT revealed intense FDG-uptake in lymph nodes, spleen and bone, suggestive of lymphoma. An extracted lymph node showed confluent granulomas, microabscesses with neutrophils and scattered multinucleated giant cells histologically. The patient had history of latent tuberculosis and proteinase 3 -anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies associated (PR3-ANCA) vasculitis, making differential diagnostic considerations complicated.Bartonella henselaeantibodies was detected in blood andB. henselaeDNA in a lymph node. He was started on doxycycline and rifampicin. Due to severe drug interactions with both tacrolimus and increasing morphine doses, rifampicin was changed to azithromycin. He received 12 days of relevant antibiotic treatment and responded well. He was discharged after 16 days with close follow-up and was still in habitual condition 12 months later.
Superwarfarin poisoning: challenges still remain
Authors: de Genover Gil Ariadna , Gonzalez Suarez Gabriel Manuel , Moret Puig Carla , Hurtado Ganoza Abelardo
Published: May 2022

Superwarfarin (long-acting anticoagulant rodenticide) poisoning should be suspected in unexplained bleeding with prolonged prothrombin time, especially in the absence of another explanation. Diagnosis and treatment of this intoxication remain a challenge as the direct analysis of superwarfarin in serum is not always possible. Therefore, toxin bioavailability remains unknown and close monitoring and treatment for long periods are required to avoid serious bleeding complications. Here, we discuss a case of suspected superwarfarin poisoning to highlight the challenges in early diagnosis and the challenges we encountered in treatment management and ensuring compliance for long periods.
Gestational trophoblastic neoplasm in a patient with end-stage renal failure (ESRF): the challenges and lessons learnt
Authors: Loo Kanddy Chin Yee , Lim Yueh Ni , Kiu Doreen Kher Lee , Sim Wee Wee
Published: May 2022

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasm (GTN) in end-stage renal failure (ESRF) has not been reported. We reported an unprecedented case of GTN in ESRF from an antecedent partial mole. She had total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy following the diagnosis as the disease was confined to the uterus. A histopathological examination confirmed an invasive mole. Consequently, she received a total of four cycles of single-agent intravenous actinomycin D as she was at low risk. Despite initial response, her disease metastasised to her right kidney for which radiotherapy was given, followed by a total of 33 doses of weekly paclitaxel. She responded to the chemotherapy and currently remains in remission. The choice of chemotherapy and their side effects due to ESRF remain the main challenges in her management. Total hysterectomy should be considered as the first-line treatment for a hydatidiform mole to prevent GTN. A multidisciplinary approach is important to optimise the efficacy of the treatment with minimal compromise of her safety.
Effects of TRAM-34 and minocycline on neuroinflammation caused by diabetic ketoacidosis in a rat model
Authors: Glaser Nicole , Chu Steven , Weiner Justin , Zdepski Linnea , Wulff Heike , Tancredi Daniel , ODonnell Martha E
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) causes acute and chronic neuroinflammation that may contribute to cognitive decline in patients with type 1 diabetes. We evaluated the effects of agents that reduce neuroinflammation (triarylmethane-34 (TRAM-34) and minocycline) during and after DKA in a rat model.

Research design and methods

Juvenile rats with DKA were treated with insulin and saline, either alone or in combination with TRAM-34 (40 mg/kg intraperitoneally twice daily for 3 days, then daily for 4 days) or minocycline (45 mg/kg intraperitoneally daily for 7 days). We compared cytokine and chemokine concentrations in brain tissue lysates during DKA among the three treatment groups and in normal controls and diabetic controls (n=9–15/group). We also compared brain inflammatory mediator levels in these same groups in adult diabetic rats that were treated for DKA as juveniles.

Results

Brain tissue concentrations of chemokine (C-C) motif ligand (CCL)3, CCL5 and interferon (IFNγ) were increased during acute DKA, as were brain cytokine composite scores. Both treatments reduced brain inflammatory mediator levels during acute DKA. TRAM-34 predominantly reduced chemokine concentrations (chemokine (C-X-C) motif ligand (CXCL-1), CCL5) whereas minocycline had broader effects, (reducing CXCL-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNFα), IFNγ, interleukin (IL) 2, IL-10 and IL-17A). Brain inflammatory mediator levels were elevated in adult rats that had DKA as juveniles, compared with adult diabetic rats without previous DKA, however, neither TRAM-34 nor minocycline treatment reduced these levels.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that both TRAM-34 and minocycline reduce acute neuroinflammation during DKA, however, treatment with these agents for 1 week after DKA does not reduce long-term neuroinflammation.
Haycocknema perplexummyositis: the first description of subclinical disease and a proposed distinctive triad to evoke clinical suspicion
Authors: Ward Kayla , Krishnan Anirudh , R Iyengar Krishnan , Robertson Thomas , White Richard , Urkude Ravindra
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Haycocknema perplexumis an exceedingly rare cause of parasitic myositis endemic to Australia, more specifically, Tasmania and North Queensland. There is a paucity of literature regarding this diagnosis, with only nine previously described cases.

Diagnosis

This report details two cases of biopsy-confirmedH. perplexummyositis from Townsville University Hospital and describes the first-ever case of subclinical infection. There is limited known information regarding theH. perplexumlife cycle and a definitive host which has hindered the development of a non-invasive diagnostic test. A review of the previously described cases has identified the hallmark features of this enigmatic condition: a triad of serological markers including deranged hepatic function, persistent eosinophilia and an elevated creatine kinase.

Conclusions

This report aimed to raise awareness ofH. perplexummyositis and the possibility of subclinical infection, which suggests a protracted disease course. Further research is required to identify a non-invasive diagnostic test, given that early diagnosis and timely initiation of albendazole treatment may drastically limit patient disability.
Stroke volume variation for predicting responsiveness to fluid therapy in patients undergoing cardiac and thoracic surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huan Sheng , Dai Jin , Song Shilian , Zhu Guining , Ji Yihao , Yin Guoping
Published: May 2022

Objective

To evaluate the reliability of stroke volume variation (SVV) for predicting responsiveness to fluid therapy in patients undergoing cardiac and thoracic surgery.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science up to 9 August 2020.

Methods

Quality of included studies were assessed with the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. We conducted subgroup analysis according to different anaesthesia and surgical methods with Stata V.14.0, Review Manager V.5.3 and R V.3.6.3. We used random-effects model to pool sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio with 95% CI. The area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic was calculated.

Results

Among the 20 relevant studies, 7 were conducted during thoracic surgery, 8 were conducted during cardiac surgery and the remaining 5 were conducted in intensive critical unit (ICU) after cardiac surgery. Data from 854 patients accepting mechanical ventilation were included in our systematic review. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.73 (95％ CI: 0.59 to 0.83) and 0.62 (95％ CI: 0.46 to 0.76) in the thoracic surgery group, 0.71 (95％ CI: 0.65 to 0.77) and 0.76 (95％ CI: 0.69 to 0.82) in the cardiac surgery group, 0.85 (95％ CI: 0.60 to 0.96) and 0.85 (95％ CI: 0.74 to 0.92) in cardiac ICU group. The AUC was 0.73 (95% CI: 0.69 to 0.77), 0.80 (95% CI: 0.77 to 0.83) and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.86 to 0.92), respectively. Results of subgroup of FloTrac/Vigileo system (AUC=0.80, Youden index=0.38) and large tidal volume (AUC=0.81, Youden index=0.48) in thoracic surgery, colloid (AUC=0.85, Youden index=0.55) and postoperation (AUC=0.85, Youden index=0.63) in cardiac surgery, passive leg raising (AUC=0.90, Youden index=0.72) in cardiac ICU were reliable.

Conclusion

SVV had good predictive performance in cardiac surgery or ICU after cardiac surgery and had moderate predictive performance in thoracic surgery. Nevertheless, technical and clinical variables may affect the predictive value potentially.
Landscaping the evidence of intimate partner violence and postpartum depression: a systematic review
Authors: Ankerstjerne Lea Bo Sønderlund , Laizer Sweetness Naftal , Andreasen Karen , Normann Anne Katrine , Wu Chunsen , Linde Ditte Søndergaard , Rasch Vibeke
Published: May 2022

Objective

To assess the evidence of the association between exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) and postpartum depression. IPV during pregnancy can have immediate and long-term physical and mental health consequences for the family. Therefore, it has been hypothesised that IPV may affect the risk of developing postpartum depression.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Global Health Library, Scopus and Google scholar were searched for published studies without restrictions on language, time or study design (up to May 2020). Studies were included if they assessed postpartum depression using the Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (cut-off≥10), among women who had been exposed to IPV (emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse). The quality of studies was judged according to the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

Results

A total of 33 studies were included in the review (participants n=131 131). The majority of studies found an association between exposure to IPV and the development of signs of postpartum depression. Overall, studies measured both exposure and outcome in various ways and controlled for a vast number of different confounders. Thirty percent of the studies were set in low-income and lower-middle-income countries while the rest were set in upper-middle-income and high-income countries and the association did not differ across settings. Among the studies reporting adjusted OR (aOR) (n=26), the significant aOR ranged between 1.18 and 6.87 (95% CI 1.12 to 11.78). The majority of the studies were judged as ‘good quality’ (n=20/33).

Conclusion

We found evidence of an association between exposure to IPV and the development of signs of postpartum depression. Meta-analysis or individual patient data meta-analysis is required to quantify the magnitude of the association between IPV and postpartum depression.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020209435.
Perinatal mortality and its predictors in Kersa Health and Demographic Surveillance System, Eastern Ethiopia: population-based prospective study from 2015 to 2020
Authors: Dheresa Merga , Daraje Gamachis , Fekadu Gelana , Ayana Galana Mamo , Balis Bikila , Negash Belay , Raru Temam Beshir , Dessie Yadeta , Alemu Addisu , Merga Bedasa Taye
Published: May 2022

Objective

Perinatal mortality is an important outcome indicator for newborn care and directly mirrors the quality of prenatal, intra partum and newborn care. Therefore, this study was aimed at estimating perinatal mortality and its predictors in Eastern Ethiopia using data from Kersa Health and Demographic Surveillance System (KHDSS).

Design, settings and participants

An open dynamic cohort design was employed among pregnant women from 2015 to 2020 at KHDSS. A total of 19 687 women were observed over the period of 6 years, and 29 719 birth outcomes were registered.

Outcome measures

Perinatal mortality rate was estimated for each year of cohort and the cumulative of 6 years. Predictors of perinatal mortality are identified.

Results

From a total of 29 306 births 783 (26.72 deaths per 1000 births; 95% CI 24.88 to 28.66) deaths were occurred during perinatal period. Rural residence (adjusted OR (AOR)=3.43; 95% CI 2.04 to 5.76), birth weight (low birth weight, AOR=3.98; 95% CI 3.04 to 5.20; big birth weight, AOR=2.51; 95% CI 1.76 to 3.57), not having antenatal care (ANC) (AOR=1.67; 95% CI 1.29 to 2.17) were associated with higher odds of perinatal mortality whereas the parity (multipara, AOR=0.46; 95% CI 0.34 to 0.62; grand multipara, AOR=0.31; 95% CI 0.21 to 0.47) was associated with lower odds of perinatal mortality.

Conclusions

The study revealed relatively high perinatal mortality rate. Place of residence, ANC, parity and birth weight were identified as predictors of perinatal mortality. Devising strategies that enhance access to and utilisations of ANC services with due emphasis for rural residents, primipara mothers and newborn with low and big birth weights may be crucial for reducing perinatal mortality.
Effect of a brief intervention with small financial incentives on alcohol consumption in China: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Shanshan , Wu Ziting , Liu Sijia , Sun Yu , Liu Gordon G
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Alcohol consumption is the seventh leading risk factor for disability-adjusted life years in the world, according to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017. As the largest developing country, China has a substantial population of alcohol consumers who suffer from related health risks. Despite having made significant advancements in eradicating absolute poverty, many people still live in relative poverty, which suggests that the adverse health effects caused by alcohol consumption among vulnerable populations in China warrant more attention. This paper aims to provide an overview of alcohol consumption among ethnic populations in China and test the feasibility and efficacy of a brief advice intervention with a small financial incentive in reducing harmful drinking behaviours.

Methods

This study is a three-arm, single-blinded, pragmatic, individually randomised controlled trial with follow-ups at 1,2 and 3 months after randomisation. A total of 440 daily drinkers living in Xichang will be recruited and divided into three groups: brief intervention group, financial incentive group and control group. All participants will receive a urine ethyl glucuronide (EtG) test, which detects alcohol consumption in the past 80 hours. Additionally, participants in the brief intervention group will receive three free counselling sessions alongside multimedia messages on the topic of alcohol consumption after each session. The participants in the financial incentive group will receive the same interventions as well as cash incentives according to the results of the EtG test. The primary outcomes are the self-reported drinking quantity, binge drinking frequency, drinking intensity and the proportion of participants who pass the EtG test.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the Peking University Health Science Center Institutional Review Board (IRB00001052-20049). Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at local, national and international conferences to publicise and explain the research to key audiences.

Trial registration number

NCT04999371.
Prevalence, geographical distribution and factors associated with pentavalent vaccine zero dose status among children in Sindh, Pakistan: analysis of data from the 2017 and 2018 birth cohorts enrolled in the provincial electronic immunisation registry
Authors: Mehmood Mariam , Setayesh Hamidreza , Siddiqi Danya Arif , Siddique Muhammad , Iftikhar Sundus , Soundardjee Riswana , Dharma Vijay Kumar , Bhurgri Ahsanullah Khan , Stuckey E M , Sultan Muhammad Akram , Chandir Subhash
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of zero dose children (who have not received any dose of pentavalent (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type B and hepatitis B) vaccine by their first birthday) among those who interacted with the immunisation system in Sindh, Pakistan along with their sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors.

Design and participants

We conducted a descriptive analysis of child-level longitudinal immunisation records of 1 467 975 0–23 months children from the Sindh’s Zindagi Mehfooz (Safe Life) Electronic Immunisation Registry (ZM-EIR), for the birth cohorts of 2017 and 2018.

Setting

Sindh province, Pakistan which has a population of 47.9 million people and an annual birth cohort of 1.7 million.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome measure was zero dose status among enrolled children. Logistic regression was performed to identify the risk factors associated with the zero dose status.

Results

Out of 1 467 975 children enrolled in the ZM-EIR in Sindh, 10.6% (154 881/1 467 975) were zero dose. There were sharp inequities across the 27 districts. Zero dose children had a lower proportion of hospital births (28.5% vs 34.0%; difference 5.5 percentage points (pp) (95% CI 5.26 to 5.74); p<0.001) and higher prevalence from slums (49.5% vs 42.3%; difference 7.2 pp (95% CI 6.93 to 7.46); p<0.001), compared with non-zero dose children. Children residing in urban compared with rural areas were at a higher risk (relative risk (RR): 1.20; p<0.001; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.22), while children with educated compared with uneducated mothers were at a lower risk of being zero dose (RR: 0.47–0.96; p<0.001; 95% CI 0.45 to 0.98).

Conclusions

Despite interacting with the immunisation system, 1 out of 10 children enrolled in the ZM-EIR in Sindh were zero dose. It is crucial to monitor the prevalence of zero dose children and investigate their characteristics and risk factors to effectively reach and follow-up with them.
The COMPLETE trial: HolistiC early respOnse assessMent for oroPharyngeaL cancEr paTiEnts; Protocol for an observational study
Authors: Verduijn Gerda M , Capala Marta E , Sijtsema Nienke D , Lauwers Iris , Hernandez Tamames Juan A , Heemsbergen Wilma D , Sewnaik Aniel , Hardillo Jose A , Mast Hetty , van Norden Yvette , Jansen Maurice P H M , van der Lugt Aad , van Gent Dik C , Hoogeman Mischa S , Mostert Bianca , Petit Steven F
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The locoregional failure (LRF) rate in human papilloma virus (HPV)-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) remains disappointingly high and toxicity is substantial. Response prediction prior to or early during treatment would provide opportunities for personalised treatment. Currently, there are no accurate predictive models available for correct OPSCC patient selection. Apparently, the pivotal driving forces that determine how a OPSCC responds to treatment, have yet to be elucidated. Therefore, the holistiC early respOnse assessMent for oroPharyngeaL cancer paTiEnts study focuses on a holistic approach to gain insight in novel potential prognostic biomarkers, acquired before and early during treatment, to predict response to treatment in HPV-negative patients with OPSCC.

Methods and analysis

This single-centre prospective observational study investigates 60 HPV-negative patients with OPSCC scheduled for primary radiotherapy (RT) with cisplatin or cetuximab, according to current clinical practice. A holistic approach will be used that aims to map the macroscopic (with Intra Voxel Incoherent Motion Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging (IVIM-DKI); before, during, and 3 months after RT), microscopic (with biopsies of the primary tumour acquired before treatment and irradiated ex vivo to assess radiosensitivity), and molecular landscape (with circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) analysed before, during and 3 months after treatment). The main end point is locoregional control (LRC) 2 years after treatment. The primary objective is to determine whether a relative change in the mean of the diffusion coefficient D (an IVIM-DKI parameter) in the primary tumour early during treatment, improves the performance of a predictive model consisting of tumour volume only, for 2 years LRC after treatment. The secondary objectives investigate the potential of other IVIM-DKI parameters, ex vivo sensitivity characteristics, ctDNA, and combinations thereof as potential novel prognostic markers.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of Erasmus Medical Center. The main results of the trial will be presented in international meetings and medical journals.

Trial registration number

NL8458.
Population-level drought responses in northern oak fern (Gymnocarpium dryopteris)
Authors: Winkel A. , Wood L.J.
Published: May 2022

Ferns serve as an invaluable indicator species for soil moisture and distribution patterns of other plant groups. Northern oak fern ( Gymnocarpium dryopteris), a common fern in the interior of British Columbia, Canada, has received little research attention despite its prevalent use in the forest resource sector as an indicator species for moisture. To understand the impact of water deficits on oak fern, we sampled in two different ecoregions in interior British Columbia and assessed acclimation to drought, by measuring the size and abundance of stomata in each region. We then subjected the ferns to a period of drought and recorded the response to stress by measuring the photosynthetic efficiency of the oak fern populations over time. Differences existed in the morphology of oak fern populations; ferns from the wetter ecoregion possessed more, larger stomata than those from the drier ecoregion. Oak ferns from both regional populations were significantly reliant on moisture present in the soil and air to maintain photosynthetic efficiency, and <20% of the population remained healthy after the 18-day drought period. The stress response of both oak fern populations followed a similar pattern; differences in stomate size and abundance did not result in differences in drought tolerance.
Properties of hybrid stars with hadron–quark crossover
Authors: Li Bo-Lin , Yan Yan , Kang Guang-Zhen , Ping Jia-Lun
Published: May 2022

The properties of hybrid stars are studied via the hybrid EOSs that are compatible with astrophysical observables. These hybrid EOSs are constructed by interpolating between hadronic EOS at lower densities and the quark EOS at higher densities. The BSR6 EOS derived from the RMF model is adopted as the hadronic EOS, while the quark EOS is calculated via a quasiparticle model. The maximum masses obtained from the hybrid EOSs are larger than [Formula: see text], and the tidal deformabilities for [Formula: see text] hybrid stars are smaller than 800. The combined tidal deformability [Formula: see text] is a monotonically increasing function of mass ratio [Formula: see text] for both hybrid EOSs and hadronic EOS, and it depends weakly on [Formula: see text]. The results of all hybrid EOSs can strictly satisfy the constraint of [Formula: see text] and the mass and radius constraints from the newest joint analysis of NICER, XMM-Newton and GW170817 data.
Automated Model Construction of Urban Structures with Limited Digital Data
Authors: O-tani Hideyuki , Iiyama Kahori , Takaya Shuhei , Yabe Masaaki
Published: May 2022

A key functionality of Integrated Earthquake Simulation which carries out regional earthquake simulations is automated model construction that builds a set of analysis models for different numerical analysis methods, using a variety of data which cover city and urban areas. In this study, we present the current state of the automated model construction for structures. Its unique feature is the ability to restore the configuration and estimate the structural properties for a target structure using a set of limited digital data. Engineering information such as design codes and regulations of the structure is systematically used to make up for the lack of the digital data. Explanation is made about the developed methodology and algorithms of the automated model construction for two kinds of structures: residential buildings and road bridges.