bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A variable neighborhood search simheuristic algorithm for reliability optimization of smart grids under uncertainty
Authors: Antoniadis Nikolaos , Cordy Maxime , Sifaleras Angelo , Le Traon Yves
Published: October 2021

A fundamental part of the self‐healing grid is reducing disturbances and automatically responding to problems. Toward this goal, smart grid operators would be of great use to ensure stability after a potential overload for a planning horizon, as the electrical values are unknown. To evaluate the robustness of the topology reconfiguration after a disturbance, like an overload, reliability analysis through simulation can be employed. However, the simulation approach we propose in this paper, except for the excessive time it consumes, cannot assure the quality of its solutions. To achieve a more robust configuration, we, additionally, propose a single‐stage stochastic program to optimize the grid topology configuration after a potential overload to ensure stability for the next day. We suggest a simheuristic approach based on a Variable Neighborhood Search metaheuristic to solve the above stochastic optimization problem. We evaluate the two approaches for this real‐world problem, together with Creos Luxembourg S.A., the leading grid operator in Luxembourg. We show that our method can quickly suggest countermeasures to operators facing potential overloading incidents, ensuring the smart grid's stability for the next day.
Enamel matrix derivative as an adjunct to minimally invasive non‐surgical treatment of intrabony defects: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Anoixiadou Styliani , Parashis Andreas , Vouros Ioannis
Published: October 2021

Aim

To compare the efficacy of minimally invasive non‐surgical technique (MINST) with or without enamel matrix derivative (EMD) in the treatment of intrabony defects ≤7 mm.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐six patients were randomly assigned to the two groups. The control group received MINST, while the experimental MINST+EMD. Clinical measurements were recorded at baseline and at 6 and 12 months, and radiographic measurements were made at baseline and 12 months.

Results

All subjects completed the study, 18 in each group. Significant improvements were observed in both groups at 12 months (p < .001) with no differences in mean PD reduction (4.0 ± 1.4 vs. 4.2 ± 1.7 mm), CAL gain (3.5 ± 1.4 vs. 3.4 ± 1.6 mm), and defect resolution (1.9 ± 1.1 vs. 1.8 ± 0.9 mm) for the MINST and the MINST+EMD groups, respectively (p > .05). A trend for greater pocket closure (PD ≤4 mm and no BoP) was achieved with the application of EMD (77.8% vs. 55.6% sites), particularly for sites with baseline PD ≤8 mm (92.3% vs. 69.2% sites), accompanied by an increased number of successful composite outcome results (61.1% vs. 44.4% sites).

Conclusions

MINST demonstrates significant improvements 12 months after treatment of intrabony defects ≤7 mm. The additional application of EMD does not further improve the mean clinical or radiographic outcomes.

This study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03622255).
Learning from a multidisciplinary randomized controlled intervention in retirement village residents
Authors: Bloomfield Katherine , Wu Zhenqiang , Broad Joanna B. , Tatton Annie , Calvert Cheryl , Hikaka Joanna , Boyd Michal , Peri Kathy , Bramley Dale , Higgins Ann‐Marie , Connolly Martin J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Retirement villages (RVs), also known as continuing care retirement communities, are an increasingly popular housing choice for older adults. The RV population has significant health needs, possibly representing a group with needs in between community‐dwelling older adults and those in long‐term residential care (LTC). Our previous work shows Gerontology Nurse Specialist (GNS)‐facilitated multidisciplinary team (MDT) interventions may reduce hospitalizations from LTC. This study tested whether a similar intervention reduced hospitalizations in RV residents.

Methods

Open‐label randomized controlled trial in which 412 older residents of 33 RVs were randomized (1:1) to an MDT intervention or usual care. Setting: RVs across two District Health Boards in Auckland, New Zealand. Residents were eligible if considered high risk of health/functional decline (triggering ≥3 interRAI Clinical Assessment Protocols or needing special consideration identified by GNS). Intervention: GNS‐facilitated MDT intervention, including geriatrician/nurse practitioner and clinical pharmacist, versus usual care. Primary outcome was time from randomization to first acute hospitalization. Secondary outcomes were rate of acute hospitalizations, LTC admission, and mortality. Twelve residents died before randomization; all others (n = 400: MDT intervention = 199; usual care = 201) were included in intention‐to‐treat analyses.

Results

Mean (SD) age was 82.2 (6.9) years, 302 (75.5%) were women, and 378 (94.5%) were European. Over median 1.5 years follow‐up, no difference was found in hazard of acute hospitalization between the MDT intervention (51.8%) and usual care (49.3%) groups (Hazard ratio [HR] = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.77–1.34). No difference was found in the incidence rate of acute hospitalizations between the MDT intervention (0.69 per person‐year) and usual care (0.86 per person‐year) groups (incidence rate ratio = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.59–1.10). Similar results were seen for the proportion of residents with LTC transition (HR = 1.18, 95% CI = 0.65–2.11) and mortality (HR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.36–1.35).

Conclusion

Further studies are needed to assess the effects of other patient‐centered interventions and outcomes with adequate primary care integration.
Quality over quantity: Legal representation at the Asylum Office
Authors: Mellinger Hillary
Published: October 2021

Quantitative studies emphasize a positive relationship between legal representation and asylum case outcomes but are stymied by potential case‐selection bias. Moreover, few studies address whether an attorney's quality level might affect case outcomes or how high‐quality representation should be conceptualized. The present study informs this literature by drawing on 28 interviews with immigration attorneys who practice before the Asylum Office. It finds that most interviewees accept challenging asylum cases and share a “big picture” understanding of what high‐quality representation should entail. However, interviewees differ in their approach to declaration writing and their perceptions of the quality level of the private bar.
Fc‐conjugated C‐type lectin receptors: Tools for understanding host–pathogen interactions
Authors: Willment Janet A.
Published: October 2021

The use of soluble fusion proteins of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) used in the detection of exogenous and endogenous ligands has helped resolve the roles of PRRs in the innate immune response to pathogens, how they shape the adaptive immune response, and function in maintaining homeostasis. Using the immunoglobulin (Ig) crystallizable fragment (Fc) domain as a fusion partner, the PRR fusion proteins are soluble, stable, easily purified, have increased affinity due to the Fc homodimerization properties, and consequently have been used in a wide range of applications such as flow cytometry, screening of protein and glycan arrays, and immunofluorescent microscopy. This review will predominantly focus on the recognition of pathogens by the cell membrane‐expressed glycan‐binding proteins of the C‐type lectin receptor (CLR) subgroup of PRRs. PRRs bind to conserved pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), such as glycans, usually located within or on the outer surface of the pathogen. Significantly, many glycans structures are identical on both host and pathogen (e.g. the Lewis (Le) X glycan), allowing the use of Fc CLR fusion proteins with known endogenous and/or exogenous ligands as tools to identify pathogen structures that are able to interact with the immune system. Screens of highly purified pathogen‐derived cell wall components have enabled identification of many unique PAMP structures recognized by CLRs. This review highlights studies using Fc CLR fusion proteins, with emphasis on the PAMPs found in fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites. The structure and unique features of the different CLR families is presented using examples from a broad range of microbes whenever possible.
On Not Misreading Origen
Authors: Williams Rowan
Published: October 2021

This essay draws together points from earlier short studies in an attempt to clarify why and how Origen was misunderstood by both his critics and his defenders in the fourth century. We need to identify what he is seeking to avoid saying: his concern is to rule out any kind of divisibility in the divine life, and also to challenge any suggestion that the effect of the Logos’s activity in creation is in any way limited. These concerns explain why he is critical of widely received exegetical consensus on some passages when such consensus gives hostages to the views he seeks to exclude. Furthermore, this must all be understood in the context of a model of scriptural exegesis which is both deeply informed by the literary scholarship of the day and shaped by the understanding of exegesis as a ‘priestly’ task of induction into the divine life of the Logos.
Soluciones relacionadas con el entorno alimentario para prevenir la obesidad infantil en América Latina y en la población latina que vive en Estados Unidos
Authors: Duran Ana Clara , Mialon Melissa , Crosbie Eric , Jensen Melissa Lorena , Harris Jennifer L. , Batis Carolina , Corvalán Camila , Taillie Lindsey Smith
Published: October 2021

El entorno alimentario es un factor importante que contribuye a las dietas poco saludables en la niñez y, por tanto, a las crecientes tasas de obesidad. Los países de Latinoamérica han recibido el reconocimiento internacional por su liderazgo en la implementación de políticas dirigidas a distintos aspectos del entorno alimentario. Sin embargo, los datos sobre la naturaleza y la gravedad de la exposición de los niños a entornos alimentarios poco saludables en la región latinoamericana y entre los latinos que viven en Estados Unidos son aún insuficientes. El objetivo de esta revisión es utilizar el marco conceptual de la Red Internacional para la Investigación, Monitoreo y Apoyo a la Acción para la Alimentación, Obesidad y Enfermedades No Transmisibles (INFORMAS, por sus siglas en inglés) para crear un entorno alimentario saludable con el que (i) comparar los elementos clave de los entornos alimentarios en relación con la obesidad en Latinoamérica y entre los latinos que viven en Estados Unidos; (ii) describir la evidencia sobre soluciones que podrían contribuir a mejorar los entornos alimentarios relacionados con la obesidad infantil; y (iii) establecer prioridades de investigación que permitan identificar estrategias de lucha contra la obesidad en estas poblaciones. Hemos detectado la necesidad de un amplio conjunto integrado de evidencias que sirva de respaldo para establecer un conjunto adecuado de políticas que mejoren el entorno alimentario al que están expuestos los niños de Latinoamérica y los niños latinos que viven en Estados Unidos y para traducir de forma más eficiente las soluciones políticas, de manera que contribuyan a reducir los crecientes niveles de obesidad infantil en estos países.
El entorno construido en los programas diseñados para promover la actividad física entre las niñas, niños y jóvenes latinos que viven en Estados Unidos y América Latina
Authors: Sarmiento Olga L. , Rubio María Alejandra , King Abby C. , Serrano Natalicio , Hino Adriano Akira F. , Hunter Ruth F. , Aguilar‐Farias Nicolas , Parra Diana C. , Salvo Deborah , Jáuregui Alejandra , Lee Rebecca E. , Kohl Bill
Published: October 2021

Prevenir la obesidad entre los jóvenes latinos que viven en Estados Unidos y en países latinoamericanos requiere reconocer la especificidad de los contextos y las interacciones entre actividad física (AF) y entorno construido (EC). El objetivo de este artículo es avanzar en la agenda de investigación sobre el EC y la AF con el fin de prevenir la obesidad en Latinoamérica y entre los jóvenes latinos de Estados Unidos mediante (1) la identificación de indicadores del entorno que contribuyan en el diseño de intervenciones y políticas; (2) la identificación de enfoques metodológicos interdisciplinarios para el estudio de la relación compleja que se establece entre el EC y la AF y (3) la presentación de estudios de casos sobre programas de EC que promueven la AF. Un grupo de científicos estadounidenses y latinoamericanos trabajó en colaboración para proponer nuevos indicadores sobre el EC, establecer enfoques metodológicos que permitan estudiar la relación compleja entre EC y AF, y revisar estudios de caso sobre programas de EC que promueven la AF en ambas regiones. Como resultado, se identificaron lagunas de conocimiento, se propusieron indicadores del entorno (como el paisaje, el diseño de las calles, los patrones de movilidad, la delincuencia y la seguridad), se revisaron enfoques metodológicos (análisis de redes sociales, métodos de ciencia ciudadana) y se analizaron estudios de caso de programas del EC que promueven la AF (calles para el juego, desplazamiento activo a la escuela e intervenciones en el entorno escolar). La prevención de la obesidad entre los jóvenes latinos y latinoamericanos exige una investigación avanzada del EC y de la AF que aborde las prioridades específicas de cada contexto y permita intercambiar las lecciones aprendidas.
The role of currently used medicinal plants in aquaculture and their action mechanisms: A review
Authors: Tadese Dawit Adisu , Song Changyou , Sun Cunxin , Liu Bo , Liu Bo , Zhou Qunlan , Xu Pao , Ge Xianping , Liu Mingyang , Xu Xiaodi , Tamiru Metekia , Zhou Zhigang , Lakew Aschalew , Kevin Ngoepe Tlou
Published: October 2021

Global aquaculture development increased rapidly in recent years, and the sector has become one of the fastest‐growing industries in the animal‐derived food production system. However, disease outbreak remains a major challenge that hinders sustainable production through an advanced level of intensification. Recently, antibiotics applied have been restricted globally against aquatic disease outbreaks due to their apparent accumulation in the tissues, which imposes on the development of resistant bacteria. Naturally available medicinal plants were tested to combat some pathogens affecting humans and animals, as they contain a wide range of active substances that can induce biological functions. Currently, medicinal plants are being tested in aquaculture as a safe and eco‐friendly substance to modulate immune status, enhance growth performance and prevent fish disease. Moreover, different parts (e.g. leaf, flower and rhizome) and forms (e.g. crude, extract and active ingredient) of plants are used to modulate specific biological functions (e.g. growth promoter, anti‐stress, immunostimulants, appetite stimulation, antibacteria, anti‐parasite and anti‐virus). Medicinal plants are also used to defend the aquaculture animal from external stressors, such as poor water quality, high environmental temperature and overcrowding. This paper aims to provide information on the role of currently used medicinal plants on aquaculture animals and their action mechanisms. In conclusion, the current review suggested that the utilisation of medicinal plants remained untapped in uncovering the biological activities of active substances against a variety of diseases across diverse species of aquaculture animals.
Sharing Knowledge to an Entrant for Production Investment Confronting COVID‐19: Incentive Alignment and Lose–Lose Dilemma
Authors: Niu Baozhuang , Dai Zhipeng , Li Qiyang
Published: October 2021

Facing the urgent demand of medical devices for COVID‐19 treatment, many automakers have recently begun manufacturing ventilators, even though they are inefficient in production and uninformed of demand variability. To help them, some incumbent ventilator manufacturers have chosen to share knowledge, such as production techniques and demand information. Clearly, the incumbent ventilator manufacturers are fulfilling social responsibility, but is their knowledge sharing rewarding, especially when the automakers are entrant rivals? If possible, are win–win situations in the sense of social responsibility and firms’ profitability identifiable? In this work, we develop a game‐theoretic model in which an incumbent and an entrant ventilator manufacturer engage in two‐dimensional competition in production investment and sales volume. We examine the incumbent manufacturer's profitability with and without knowledge sharing by formulating the tradeoffs among supply expansion, intensified competition, and the entrant's production efficiency improvement and demand variance reduction. We identify both “win‐win” and “lose‐lose” situations for the two competing manufacturers. Specifically, we find that free knowledge could be harmful for the entrant manufacturer, but the incumbent manufacturer benefits from knowledge sharing when market competition is intense, or when market competition is mild but the production investment efficiency varies.
Optic nerve colobomas associated with unilateral focal serous retinal detachment in a dog – In‐vivo imaging and outcome following laser retinopexy
Authors: Dufour Valerie L. , Cohen Julie A. , Holle Dolores M. , Aguirre Gustavo D.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To describe the ophthalmoscopic, in‐vivo imaging, fluorescein angiography, and therapeutic photocoagulation outcome in a case of bilateral optic nerve colobomas associated with focal unilateral retinal detachment in a dog.

Methods

Pretraining eye examination of a 1.6‐year‐old female German shepherd service dog showed a focal juxta‐papillary bullous retinal separation in the right eye. In vivo imaging and angiography were performed under general anesthesia using optical coherence tomography. Nonoverlapping diode laser burns were applied through an operating microscope adapter to selected areas along the leading margins of the detachment.

Results

The funduscopic examination and in‐vivo imaging revealed bilateral optic nerve colobomas associated with a focal bullous detachment in the right eye. Fluorescein angiography showed absence of blood vessel leakage and absence of staining inside of the retinal elevation. Photocoagulation induced immediate changes in retinal layer reflectivity. Three months post‐photocoagulation, the retinal detachment had improved and scarring of the burns was visible. One and two years post‐procedure, the retinal detachment resolved.

Conclusions

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging provides a detailed analysis of the retinal abnormalities associated with the clinical lesion. Laser retinopexy is a valid therapeutic option to limit the extension of the detachment.
GIS-AIDED GEOGRAPHICAL AND METEOROLOGICAL DATA OVERVIEW OF SOLAR RADIATION MAPPING FOR MALAYSIA – AN EXPLANATORY STUDY BASED ON SOLAR RADIATION PREDICTION MODELING USING NEURAL NETWORK APPROACH
Authors: Sultan Mohd Mohd Rizman , Ahmat Ruslan Fazlina , Johari Juliana
Published: October 2021

Solar radiation mapping has used geographical and meteorological data. To obtain geographical and meteorological data, a Geographic Information System (GIS) is required. GIS is defined as an integrated geographic resource that presents data in terms of spatial information. This data is important for Neural Networks as it will be used as input parameters for the development of solar radiation prediction models. Solar radiation prediction is one way to map the sun's rays in certain places where there are insufficient resources or space to build a complete solar radiation measurement station. Since predictions about solar radiation require meteorological and geographical data, this paper will give an overview of GIS-assisted geographical and meteorological data to be used as input parameters for solar radiation mapping which will eventually be used as input for prediction models developed for the whole country of Malaysia using Neural Networks. Based on the results, the prediction model developed managed to obtain a coefficient of determination, R2 value of 0.9329.
Tahap Kecenderungan Minat Pelajar USIM Terhadap Kursus TITAS (Level of USIM Student Interest Tendency in TITAS Course)
Authors: Abdul Latiff Latifah , Mohd Mokhtar Ros Aiza , Muda Khadijah , Mohad Abd Hakim
Published: October 2021

Studies on student interest on any given course has been given attention by a number of researchers. Usually, these studies focus on factors that influence student inclination to learn a course. Student interest in a course generates various outcomes, such as encouraging student performance, and this performance is measured through student participation in lectures, course-related activities, and student motivation and drive to study a course. For core university courses such as Islamic and Asian Civilisations or TITAS, a study on student interest in the subject is highly relevant. A highly-positive interest in the course will realise one of the significant aspects of the government agenda; to unite the multi-ethnic groups in Malaysia. Therefore, this study is conducted to measure the interest of students of Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) towards TITAS. This study uses the quantitative research method, through descriptive analysis of student interest in TITAS, with questionnaires as the research instrument of choice. The findings show students have a very positive response to this course, thus proving that student enthusiasm and interest in learning the course is very high.
Ijtihad Semasa Di Malaysia: Tinjauan Terhadap Konsep Dan Keperluannya (Current Ijtihad In Malaysia: A Review On Its Concept And Urgency)
Authors: Rosele Muhammad Ikhlas , Meerangani Khairul Azhar , Harun Muhammad Safwan , Md. Ariffin Mohd. Farhan
Published: October 2021

The changing of times is something that irresistible. These developments affect many aspects of human life. Furthermore, many issues arise in line with current developments that require Islamic legal answers. Therefore, a current form of ijtihad is very necessary. Thus, this study will examine the concept of current ijtihad and its urgencies nowadays. The study was conducted using a qualitative approach, the library data were used fully and analyzed inductively and deductively. The results of the study have outlined the current concept of ijtihad, its form, needs and approach. It is an important thing to underline in performing current ijtihad, especially in the Malaysian context.
The Challenge of Providing Evidence-based Transitional Care
Authors: Naylor Mary D , Toles Mark
Published: October 2021

Transitions in care are events that occur as individuals transfer between settings and providers of healthcare. The movement from a hospital to home-based care is a common example of a care transition. Due to common breakdowns between health and social care systems, continuing risks for acute health events, and the lack of support to manage complex treatments at home, between 15-20% of hospitalized adults are rehospitalized within thirty days of returning home. This high rate of hospital readmissions points up the need for transitional care services to address challenges in continuing care at home
Should the next NIH director have an M.D.?
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: October 2021

Some observers say White House should drop that tradition to broaden the candidate pool
Whole-Genome Sequencing and Annotation of Selected
Lactobacillales
Isolated from Commercial Cucumber Fermentation
Authors: Page Clinton A. , Pérez-Díaz Ilenys M.
Published: October 2021

We report the whole-genome sequences and annotations of 42
Lactobacillales
strains isolated from commercial cucumber fermentations performed in North Carolina (
n
= 34) and Minnesota (
n
= 9), USA. The isolates include representatives from 12 acid-producing species.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Nonmotile Myxococcus xanthus Strain NM
Authors: Vollmann Dustin Joshua , Busche Tobias , Rückert Christian , Nett Markus
Published: October 2021

Myxobacteria exhibit multicellular swarming behavior, which depends on the coordination of cell motility. Unlike other myxobacteria,
Myxococcus xanthus
NM is not capable of forming swarms due to a defective motility system. Here, we present the 9.35-Mbp genome sequence of this nonmotile myxobacterium.
Quality gaps in screening and monitoring for postoperative hyperglycemia in a Canadian hospital: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ruzycki Shannon M , Harrison Tyrone G , Enns Edwin , McKeen Julie , Helmle Karmon , Cameron Anna
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Evidence-based preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative glycemic management may reduce poor surgical outcomes. Previous studies suggest that quality gaps in perioperative glycemic management may be common.

Research design and methods

This retrospective cohort study used administrative health and laboratory data from a single center to estimate quality gaps in perioperative glycemic management in patients with and without diabetes between April 2019 and March 2020. We examined the proportion of patients with preoperative hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) measurement, postoperative point-of-care testing (POCT) for glucose, hyperglycemia, and basal bolus insulin regimens. We compared the median length of stay (LOS) in patients with and without postoperative hyperglycemia, adjusted for age and sex.

Results

There were 6576 patients in our cohort; 1165 (17.8%) had diabetes. Most patients with diabetes had an HbA1c measured prior to surgery (n=697, 59.8%). Postoperatively, 16.9% of patients with diabetes had no POCT monitoring (n=197) and 65.7% had hyperglycemia (n=636). Only 35.9% of patients who received insulin had a basal bolus insulin regimen (n=229). Patients with diabetes who had postoperative hyperglycemia had a longer median LOS compared with those who did not have postoperative hyperglycemia (8.4 days (95% CI 7.5 to 9.4) and 6.7 days (95% CI 6.3 to 7.1), respectively). In patients without diabetes, median LOS was 7.4 days (95% CI 4.4 to 10.4) for those with hyperglycemia and 5.2 days (95% CI 5.1 to 5.4) for those with in-target glucose.

Conclusions

Quality gaps in perioperative glycemic management include measurement of blood glucose after surgery and treatment of postoperative hyperglycemia. These gaps may contribute to longer LOS.
Risk factors of mortality among patients hospitalised with COVID-19 in a critical care or hospital care unit: analysis of the French national medicoadministrative database
Authors: Ouattara Eric , Bruandet Amelie , Borde Aurélie , Lenne Xavier , Binder-Foucard Florence , Le-bourhis-zaimi Maggie , Muller Joris , Tran ba loc Pierre , Séguret Fabienne , Tezenas du Montcel Sophie , Gilleron Véronique
Published: October 2021

Objective

To explore mortality risk factors for patients hospitalised with COVID-19 in a critical care unit (CCU) or a hospital care unit (HCU).

Design

Retrospective cohort analysis using the French national (Programme de médicalisation des systèmes d’information) database.

Setting

Any public or private hospital in France.

Participants

98 366 patients admitted with COVID-19 for more than 1 day during the first semester of 2020 were included. The underlying conditions were retrieved for all contiguous stays.

Main outcome measures

In-hospital mortality and associated risk factors were assessed using frailty Cox models.

Results

Among the 98 366 patients included, 25 765 (26%) were admitted to a CCU. The median age was 66 (IQR: 55–76) years in CCUs and 74 (IQR: 57–85) years in HCUs. Age was the main risk factor of death in both CCUs and HCUs, with adjusted HRs (aHRs) in CCUs increasing from 1.60 (95% CI 1.35 to 1.88) for 46 to 65 years to 8.17 (95% CI 6.86 to 9.72) for ≥85 years. In HCUs, the aHR associated with age was more than two times higher. The gender was not significantly associated with death, aHR 1.03 (95% CI 0.98 to 1.09, p=0.2693) in CCUs. Most of the underlying chronic conditions were risk factors for death, including malignant neoplasm (CCU: 1.34 (95% CI 1.25 to 1.43); HCU: 1.41 (95% CI 1.35 to 1.47)), cirrhosis without transplant (1.41 (95% CI 1.22 to 1.64); 1.27 (95% CI 1.12 to 1.45)) and dementia (1.30 (95% CI 1.16 to 1.46); 1.07 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.12)).

Conclusion

This analysis confirms the role of age as the major risk factor of death in patients with COVID-19 irrespective to admission to critical care and therefore supports the current vaccination policies targeting older individuals.
Non-urgent emergency department attendances in children: a retrospective observational analysis
Authors: Simpson Rebecca M , O'Keeffe Colin , Jacques Richard M , Stone Tony , Hassan Abu , Mason Suzanne M
Published: October 2021

Introduction

A significant proportion of ED attendances in children may be non-urgent attendances (NUAs), which could be better managed elsewhere. This study aimed to quantify NUAs and urgent attendances (UAs) in children to ED and determine which children present in this way and when.

Methods

Dataset extracted from the CUREd research database containing linked data on the provision of care in Yorkshire and Humber. Analysis focused on children’s ED attendances (April 2014–March 2017). Summary statistics and odds ratios (OR) comparing NUAs and UAs were examined by: age, mode and time of arrival and deprivation alongside comparing summary statistics for waiting, treatment and total department times.

Results

NUAs were more likely in younger children: OR for NUA in children aged 1–4 years, 0.82 (95% CI: 0.80 to 0.83), age 15 years, 0.39 (95% CI: 0.38 to 0.40), when compared with those under 1 year. NUAs were more likely to arrive out of hours (OOHs) compared with in hours: OR 1.19 (95% CI 1.18 to 1.20), and OOHs arrivals were less common in older children compared with those under 1 year: age 1–4 years, 0.87 (95% CI: 0.84 to 0.89) age 15 years, 0.66 (95% CI: 0.63 to 0.69). NUAs also spent less total time in the ED, with a median (IQR) of 98 min (60–147) compared with 127 min (80–185) for UAs.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of ED attendances in children are NUAs. Our data suggest there are particular groups of children for whom targeted interventions would be most beneficial. Children under 5 years would be such a group, particularly in providing accessible, timely care outside of usual community care opening hours.
Systematic review of current natural language processing methods and applications in cardiology
Authors: Reading Turchioe Meghan , Volodarskiy Alexander , Pathak Jyotishman , Wright Drew N , Tcheng James Enlou , Slotwiner David
Published: October 2021

Natural language processing (NLP) is a set of automated methods to organise and evaluate the information contained in unstructured clinical notes, which are a rich source of real-world data from clinical care that may be used to improve outcomes and understanding of disease in cardiology. The purpose of this systematic review is to provide an understanding of NLP, review how it has been used to date within cardiology and illustrate the opportunities that this approach provides for both research and clinical care. We systematically searched six scholarly databases (ACM Digital Library, Arxiv, Embase, IEEE Explore, PubMed and Scopus) for studies published in 2015–2020 describing the development or application of NLP methods for clinical text focused on cardiac disease. Studies not published in English, lacking a description of NLP methods, non-cardiac focused and duplicates were excluded. Two independent reviewers extracted general study information, clinical details and NLP details and appraised quality using a checklist of quality indicators for NLP studies. We identified 37 studies developing and applying NLP in heart failure, imaging, coronary artery disease, electrophysiology, general cardiology and valvular heart disease. Most studies used NLP to identify patients with a specific diagnosis and extract disease severity using rule-based NLP methods. Some used NLP algorithms to predict clinical outcomes. A major limitation is the inability to aggregate findings across studies due to vastly different NLP methods, evaluation and reporting. This review reveals numerous opportunities for future NLP work in cardiology with more diverse patient samples, cardiac diseases, datasets, methods and applications.
Prevalence of type 2 diabetes by age, sex and geographical area among two million public assistance recipients in Japan: a cross-sectional study using a nationally representative claims database
Authors: Sengoku Tami , Ishizaki Tatsuro , Goto Yoshihito , Iwao Tomohide , Ohtera Shosuke , Sakai Michi , Kato Genta , Nakayama Takeo , Takahashi Yoshimitsu
Published: October 2021

Background

Recognising the importance of the social determinants of health, the Japanese government introduced a health management support programme targeted at type 2 diabetes (T2D) for public assistance recipients (PAR) in 2018. However, evidence of the T2D prevalence among PAR is lacking. We aimed to estimate T2D prevalence by age and sex among PAR, compared with the prevalence among health insurance enrollees (HIE). Additionally, regional differences in T2D prevalence among PAR were examined.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study using 1-month health insurance claims of both PAR and HIE. The Fact-finding Survey data on Medical Assistance and the National Database of Health Insurance Claims data were used. T2D prevalence among PAR and HIE were assessed by age and sex, respectively. Moreover, to examine regional differences in T2D prevalence of inpatients and outpatients among PAR, T2D crude prevalence and age-standardised prevalence were calculated by prefecture. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was also conducted at the city level.

Results

T2D crude prevalence was 7.7% in PAR (inpatients and outpatients). Among outpatients, the prevalence was 7.5% in PAR and 4.1% in HIE, respectively. The mean crude prevalence and age-standardised prevalence of T2D (inpatients and outpatients) among 47 prefectures were 7.8% and 3.9%, respectively. In the city-level analysis, the OR for the prevalence of T2D by region ranged from 0.31 to 1.51.

Conclusion

The prevalence of T2D among PAR was higher than HIE and there were regional differences in the prevalence of PAR. Measures to prevent the progression of diabetes among PAR by region are needed.
JME-001 phase II trial of first-line combination chemotherapy with cisplatin, pemetrexed, and nivolumab for unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Miyamoto Yosuke , Kozuki Toshiyuki , Aoe Keisuke , Wada Sae , Harada Daijiro , Yoshida Michihiro , Sakurai Jun , Hotta Katsuyuki , Fujimoto Nobukazu
Published: October 2021

Background

JME-001 is a phase II trial assessing the efficacy and safety of cisplatin, pemetrexed, and nivolumab as first-line therapy in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).

Patients and methods

Patients with untreated, unresectable MPM with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) of 0–1 were included. The primary endpoint is the centrally reviewed objective response rate. The secondary endpoints include (1) response rate assessed by investigators, (2) disease control rate, (3) overall survival, (4) progression-free survival, (5) duration of response, and (6) time to response. Safety and adverse events will also be evaluated. Cisplatin (75 mg/m2), pemetrexed (500 mg/m2), and nivolumab (360 mg/body) were administered intravenously every 3 weeks with a total of 4–6 cycles. If patients did not progress during the combination phase, maintenance therapy with nivolumab was administered until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Tissue samples were required and collected for programmed death ligand 1 analysis.

Results

Eighteen patients (mean age 69.2 years, 15 men) were enrolled between January 2018 and May 2019. The ECOG PS was 0 in 3 patients and 1 in 15 patients. Fourteen (77.8%; 95% CI 52.4% to 93.6%) patients had an objective response. The disease control rate was 94.4% (95% CI 72.7% to 99.9%). Fourteen (77.8%) patients had partial response (PR), three had stable disease, and one was not evaluable. Tumor shrinkage was observed in 10/14 (71.4%) patients with epithelioid, and 2/2 (100%) patients with sarcomatoid or biphasic histological subtype had PR. Ten (55.6%) patients experienced grade 3 or worse adverse events, including disorder of metabolism or nutrition (33.3%), loss of appetite (27.8%), anemia (16.7%), and hyponatremia (11.1%). No treatment-related deaths occurred.

Conclusions

The safety and efficacy of this study strongly support a definitive trial of this combination.

Trial registration number

UMIN000030892.
Passive heat acclimation does not modulate processing speed and executive functions during cognitive tasks performed at fixed levels of thermal strain
Authors: Barry Hadiatou , Gendron Philippe , Gagnon Christine , Bherer Louis , Gagnon Daniel
Published: October 2021

This study evaluated if passive controlled hyperthermia heat acclimation modulates cognitive performance during passive heat stress. Eight healthy adults (25 ± 4 years) underwent 7 consecutive days of hot water immersion (core temperature ≥38.6 °C) and a 7-day time-control period. On days 1 and 7 of heat acclimation, participants performed a digital Stroop test at baseline, when core temperature reached 38.6 °C, and after 60 minutes at a core temperature ≥38.6 °C to evaluate reaction time during tasks targeting processing speed (reading and counting) and executive functions (inhibition and switching). On days 1 and 7 of the time-control intervention, participants performed the Stroop test with equivalent amounts of time separating each task as for heat acclimation. During day 1 of heat acclimation, reaction time was quicker during the reading (–44 ms [–71 to –17], P < 0.01) and counting (–39 ms [–76 to –2], P = 0.04) tasks when the rectal temperature reached 38.6 °C, but after a further 60 minutes of heat exposure, reaction time only remained quicker during the reading task (–56 ms [–83 to –29], P < 0.01). Changes in reaction time during heat exposure were unaffected by subsequent heat acclimation (interaction, all P ≥ 0.09). In conclusion, 7 days of heat acclimation does not modulate processing speed and executive functions during passive heat exposure.

Novelty: Whether heat acclimation improves cognitive performance during heat exposure remains unclear. We tested the hypothesis that heat acclimation modulates reaction time during cognitive tasks performed at matched levels of thermal strain. Despite the classical signs of heat acclimation, reaction time during heat exposure is unaffected by heat acclimation.
Eight cycles of half-sib family recurrent selection to improve rubber yield in Russian dandelion
Authors: Wolyn David J. , Innes Gregory
Published: October 2021

Russian dandelion (Taraxacum kok-saghyz) produces natural rubber which can complement the world’s supply of this strategic commodity, derived mainly from the Para rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). Four cycles of half-sib family recurrent selection conducted previously in Russian dandelion improved rubber yield nearly 50%. The objectives of this research were to continue selection for four additional cycles and evaluate progress from eight generations of breeding, and assess the potential for future gains. Rubber yield increased from 0.205 to 0.378 g/plant from Cycle 0 (C0) to C8, representing an 84% improvement, or 10% per cycle. Increases from C0 to C4 were similar to those from C4 to C8. Root dry weight did not increase from selection and improved yield only resulted from enhancing rubber percentage which changed from 4.35% to 7.62%. Selection response has not plateaued, and phenotypic variation has not decreased, indicating continued gains can occur with additional breeding.
Place and transformative learning in climate change focused community science
Authors: Groulx Mark , Winegardner Amanda , Brisbois Marie Claire , Fishback Lee Ann , Linde Rachelle , Levy Kristin , Booth Annie
Published: October 2021

Community science involves the co-creation of scientific pursuits, learning, and outcomes and is presented as a transformative practice for community engagement and environmental governance. Emphasizing critical reflection, this study adopts Mezirow’s conception of transformative learning to theorize the transformative capacity of community science. Findings from interviews with participants in a community science program reveal critical reflection, although instances acknowledging attitudes and beliefs without challenging personal assumptions were more common. Program elements most likely to prompt participants to identify beliefs, values, and assumptions include data collection and interaction in team dynamics, whereas data collection in a novel environment was most likely to prompt participants to challenge their beliefs, values, and assumptions. A review of 71 climate change focused programs further demonstrates the extent that program designs support transformative learning. Key features of the community science landscape like the broad inclusion of stated learning objectives offer a constructive starting point for deepening transformative capacity, while the dominance of contributory program designs stands as a likely roadblock. Overall, this study contributes by applying a developed field to theorize transformation in relation to community science and by highlighting where facilitators should focus program design efforts to better promote transformation toward environmental sustainability.
Nesting Common Eiders (Somateria mollissima) show little behavioral response to fixed-wing drone surveys
Authors: Ellis-Felege Susan N. , Stechmann Tanner , Hervey Samuel , Felege Christopher J. , Rockwell Robert F. , Barnas Andrew F.
Published: October 2021

Drones may be valuable in polar research because they can minimize researcher activity and overcome logistical, financial, and safety obstacles associated with wildlife research in polar regions. Because polar species may be particularly sensitive to disturbance and some research suggests behavioral responses to drones are species-specific, there is a need for focal species-specific disturbance assessments. We evaluated behavioral responses of nesting Common Eiders (Somateria mollissima (Linnaeus, 1758), n = 19 incubating females) to first, second, or in a few cases third exposure of fixed-wing drone surveys using nest cameras. We found no effect of drone flights (F[1,23] = 0, P = 1.0) or previous exposures (F[1,23] = 0.75, P = 0.397) on the probability of a daily recess event (bird leaves nests). Drone flights did not impact recess length (F[1,25] = 1.34, P = 0.26); however, Common Eiders with prior drone exposure took longer recess events (F[1,25] = 5.27, P = 0.03). We did not observe any overhead vigilance behaviors common in other species while the drone was in the air, which may reflect Common Eiders’ anti-predator strategies of reducing activity at nests in response to aerial predators. Surveying nesting Common Eider colonies with a fixed-wing drone did not result in biologically meaningful behavioral changes, providing a potential tool for research and monitoring this polar nesting species.
Fibonacci length and the generalized order k-Pell sequences of the 2-generator p-groups of nilpotency class 2
Authors: Mehraban E. , Hashemi M.
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we consider the 2-generator p-groups of nilpotency class 2. We find the Fibonacci length and the period of the generalized order k-Pell sequences of these groups.
Multivariate wavelet leaders Rényi dimension and multifractal formalism in mixed Besov spaces
Authors: Ben Abid Moez , Ben Slimane Mourad , Ben Omrane Ines , Turkawi Maamoun
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we first establish a general lower bound for the multivariate wavelet leaders Rényi dimension valid for any pair [Formula: see text] of functions on [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] belongs to the Besov space [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] belongs to [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. We then prove the optimality of this result for quasi all pairs [Formula: see text] in the Baire generic sense. Finally, we compute both iso-mixed and upper-multivariate Hölder spectra for all pairs [Formula: see text] in the same [Formula: see text]-set. This allows to prove (respectively, study) the Baire generic validity of the upper-multivariate (respectively, iso-multivariate) multifractal formalism based on wavelet leaders for such pairs.
Identifying duplications and lateral gene transfers simultaneously and rapidly
Authors: Chen Zhi-Zhong , Deng Fei , Wang Lusheng
Published: October 2021

This paper deals with the problem of enumerating all minimum-cost LCA-reconciliations involving gene duplications and lateral gene transfers (LGTs) for a given species tree [Formula: see text] and a given gene tree [Formula: see text]. Previously, [Tofigh A, Hallett M, Lagergren J, Simultaneous identification of duplications and lateral gene transfers, IEEE/ACM Trans Comput Biol Bioinf 517–535, 2011.] gave a fixed-parameter algorithm for this problem that runs in [Formula: see text] time, where [Formula: see text] is the number of vertices in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is the number of vertices in [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] is the minimum cost of an LCA-reconciliation between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, by refining their algorithm, we obtain a new one for the same problem that finds and outputs the solutions in a compact form within [Formula: see text] time. In the most interesting case where [Formula: see text], our algorithm is [Formula: see text] times faster.
MANAGING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN DIGITAL BUSINESS ECOSYSTEMS
Authors: TAWASTSTJERNA TIINA , OLANDER HEIDI
Published: October 2021

Previous research has increased our understanding of digital transformation (DT) and digital business ecosystems as independent topics. Less is known about how DT unfolds in digital business ecosystems. Such collaborative creation of digital innovations is affected by individual actors and by ecosystem as a whole. Based on an empirical case study of an ecosystem facilitator company and its digital business ecosystems as embedded cases, this paper contributes to the understanding of key success factors in new digital business ecosystems. The findings support collaborative governance as an important tool in leading the DT among multiple partners. Moreover, the findings present the concept of a common rulebook, including the practices, principles, guidelines, tools, handshakes, and boundaries, as an enabler for ways of working in an ecosystem. Managers can use this paper to increase their understanding on the governance of digital business ecosystems and to clarify their organisational expectations when participating in joint endeavours involving DT.
Fabrication of Quantum Dot Sensitized Solar Cells Based on Transparent TiO2 Photoanodes
Authors: Hu Zhenyu , Zheng Ruifeng , Lü Wei , Li Jialun , Li Xuesong , Jiang Yi , Yang Xijia , Wang Liying
Published: October 2021

While transparent solar cells are highly desired for smart energy devices, the general fabrication method is to sacrifice the film thickness of an electrode in exchange for a certain light transmittance, which limits the device performance. In this work, we developed a facile and economic strategy to prepare transparent TiO2 films, which involved spin-coating n-butyl titanate on conductive FTO glass and sintering at suitable temperature. A transmittance up to [Formula: see text]% in the visible and infrared range could be achieved. With the transparent TiO2 film as photoanode of quantum dot sensitized solar cells, the highest power conversion efficiency was 2.92%. This work inspires new ways for the transparent electrode preparation of solar cells and provides a flexible and practical approach to anti-ultraviolet work, demonstrating its application potential in related fields.