bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic automated red cell exchange therapy for sickle cell disease
Authors: Zakieh Abdulhafiz , Mercure‐Corriveau Nicolas , Lanzkron Sophie , Feng Xinyi , Vozniak Sonja , Crowe Elizabeth P. , Rai Herleen , Lawrence Courtney , Bekkouri Denise , Goel Ruchika , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Bloch Evan M.
Published: July 2024

Background

The data to support chronic automated red cell exchange (RCE) in sickle cell disease (SCD) outside of stroke prevention, is limited, especially in adults.

Study Design and Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of patients with SCD who were referred for chronic RCE at our institution over a 10‐year period. Data that were evaluated included patient demographics, referral indications, and procedural details (e.g., vascular access, adverse events, etc.). In a subanalysis, the number of annual acute care encounters during 3 years of chronic RCE was compared with that in the year preceding the first RCE.

Results

A total of 164 patients were referred for chronic RCE: median age was 28 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 22–36) at referral and 60% were female. Seventy (42.6%) were naïve to chronic transfusion (simple or RCE) prior to referral. The leading indications for referral were refractory pain (73/164, 44.5%) and iron overload (57/164, 34.7%). A total of 5090 procedures occurred during the study period (median = 19, IQR = 5–45). Of the 138 patients who had central vascular access, 8 (6%) and 16 (12%) had ≥1 central‐line‐related thrombosis and/or infection, respectively. Of those who were not RBC alloimmunized at initiation of RCE, 12/105 (11.4%) developed new antibodies during chronic RCE. In those 30 patients who were adherent to therapy for 3 years, there was no significant difference in acute care encounters following initiation of RCE.

Conclusion

Prospective clinical trials are needed to determine which patients are most likely to benefit from chronic RCE and refine selection accordingly.
How to use chest radiographs and ECGs in children with pacemakers
Authors: Kendall Ian Scott , Turkington Lisa , Gillender Jonathan , Sands Andrew J
Published: July 2024

A child with pacemaker is an uncommon presentation to the general paediatric ward, and most clinicians without previous experience may not feel confident in assessing these patients. This article provides an overview of paediatric pacemakers and commonly found radiological and electrophysiological correlates along with clinical consideration.
Assessing the health and economic burden of obesity-related complications in East-Asian populations: implementation of risk equations in the Core Obesity Model for Japan and model validation
Authors: Tatsuno Ichiro , Gerlier Laetitia , Olivieri Anamaria-Vera , Baker-Knight James , Lamotte Mark
Published: July 2024

Objective

Obesity is associated with a significant clinical and economic burden and its prevalence has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. An ethnicity-specific impact of excess weight has been demonstrated, with Asian individuals exhibiting weight-related health problems at lower body mass indexes (BMIs) than Caucasians. We aimed to adapt the core obesity model (COM) to predict incidences of weight-associated diseases, including type 2 diabetes, acute coronary syndrome (ACS), stroke, cancers, sleep apnoea, hyperuricaemia/gout, total knee replacement (TKR) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a Japanese population.

Methods and analysis

Literature was searched to identify studies reporting the association between risk factors and comorbidities in Japanese populations. Data were extracted to update the COM risk prediction equations. Internal and external validation were performed.

Results

Overall, good internal validity was achieved, with mild underestimation for diabetes, cardiovascular and all-cause death taken together (ordinary least squares linear regression [OLS-LRL] 0.8844), moderate overestimation of TKR and cancers (OLS-LRL 1.267) and a slight underestimation for NAFLD and hyperuricaemia (OLS-LRL 0.934). External validation results were aligned with known geographical patterns: complications occurred at lower BMI in Japanese individuals, with a threefold higher incidence of diabetes and twofold higher obstructive sleep apnoea, gout prevalence and colorectal cancer at equal BMI. Conversely, the 10-year cumulative ACS incidences predicted in a Japanese population were less than half of those in a Western population.

Conclusion

The Japanese COM adaptation addresses ethnicity-specific patterns of overweight/obesity, with better sensitivity to lower BMIs for several associated complications. It may support regional public health policy and research.
Effectiveness of post-COVID-19 primary care attendance in improving survival in very old patients with multimorbidity: a territory-wide target trial emulation
Authors: Wei Cuiling , Yan Vincent Ka Chun , Maringe Camille , Tian Wenxin , Chu Rachel Yui Ki , Liu Wenlong , Liu Boyan , Hu Yuqi , Zhou Lingyue , Chui Celine Sze Ling , Li Xue , Wan Eric Yuk Fai , Cheung Ching Lung , Chan Esther Wai Yin , Wong William Chi Wai , Wong Ian Chi Kei , Lai Francisco Tsz Tsun
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Older individuals with multimorbidity are at an elevated risk of infection and complications from COVID-19. Effectiveness of post-COVID-19 interventions or care models in reducing subsequent adverse outcomes in these individuals have rarely been examined. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of attending general outpatient within 30 days after discharge from COVID-19 on 1-year survival among older adults aged 85 years or above with multimorbidity.

Design

Retrospective cohort study emulating a randomised target trial using electronic health records.

Setting

We used data from the Hospital Authority and the Department of Health in Hong Kong, which provided comprehensive electronic health records, COVID-19 confirmed case data, population-based vaccination records and other individual characteristics for the study.

Participants

Adults aged 85 years or above with multimorbidity who were discharged after hospitalisation for COVID-19 between January 2020 and August 2022.

Interventions

Attending a general outpatient within 30 days of last COVID-19 discharge defined the exposure, compared to no outpatient visit.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcome was all-cause mortality within one year. Secondary outcomes included mortality from respiratory, cardiovascular and cancer causes.

Results

A total of 6183 eligible COVID-19 survivors were included in the analysis. The all-cause mortality rate following COVID-19 hospitalisation was lower in the general outpatient visit group (17.1 deaths per 100 person-year) compared with non-visit group (42.8 deaths per 100 person-year). After adjustment, primary care consultations within 30 days after discharge were associated with a significantly greater 1-year survival (difference in 1-year survival: 11.2%, 95% CI 8.1% to 14.4%). We also observed significantly better survival from respiratory diseases in the general outpatient visit group (difference in 1-year survival: 6.3%, 95% CI 3.5% to 8.9%). In a sensitivity analysis for different grace period lengths, we found that the earlier participants had a general outpatient visit after COVID-19 discharge, the better the survival.

Conclusions

Timely primary care consultations after COVID-19 hospitalisation may improve survival following COVID-19 hospitalisation among older adults aged 85 or above with multimorbidity. Expanding primary care services and implementing follow-up mechanisms are crucial to support this vulnerable population’s recovery and well-being.
Comparative study of physical activity status and food patterns in adolescents with and without polycystic ovary syndrome: an analytical approach
Authors: Rezaei Ghamsari Sepideh , Faal Siahkal Shahla , Zahmatkesh Bibihajar , Ebrahimi Elham
Published: July 2024

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in adolescents causes appearance changes such as hirsutism, alopecia, acne and long-term complications, such as metabolic syndrome and infertility. This study aimed to compare physical activity status and food patterns, as prominent predictive factors, in adolescents with and without PCOS.

Methods

This study was a cross-sectional study conducted on 400 adolescents at health centres affiliated with Golestan University of Medical Sciences. The data collection tools include a demographic questionnaire, a standard adolescents’ Physical Activity Status Questionnaire and a Nutritional Status Questionnaire. SPSS V.20 software was used to analyse the data.

Results

The mean age of participants was 19.16±3.18. The results of the study showed that height, weight and menstrual status were significantly different between the two groups (p<0.05). The calorie intake in affected adolescents was high, and the physical activity status was unfavourable (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Adolescents with PCOS have been found to have different physical activity levels, nutritional patterns and calorie intake compared to non-affected individuals. This is a critical issue, as high caloric intake and insufficient physical activity can exacerbate the development of PCOS in adolescents.
Evaluation of the first 5 years of the Next Generation GP leadership programme: balancing autonomy and accountability
Authors: Gulati Steve , Smith Judith A
Published: July 2024

Background

In 2017, a group of trainee general practitioners (GPs) came together to design and deliver a six-session leadership development programme for their peer trainee and early career GPs: the Next Generation GP programme. Over 2500 GPs took part in Next Generation GP between 2017 and 2022.

Aim

To evaluate the origins and development of the Next Generation GP programme, its early impact on individuals and general practice, and what it reveals about GPs’ needs for career and leadership development at a time of major workforce and demand pressures.

Methods

A rapid review of evidence on general practice workforce and career trends informed the design of qualitative research interviews (n=28) with a purposive sample of programme participants, primary care leaders and educational experts. This was supplemented by analysis of secondary data from participant evaluations of programme workshops.

Results

Many programme participants reported: improved competence in leadership skills, increased understanding of the health system, having new support networks and more energy for their GP role. Respondents pointed out the strengths of the programme, also highlighting ways in which it could be adapted to enable a transition to a more sustainable position within broader clinical and leadership career development.

Conclusions

Next Generation GP has to date largely fulfilled its programme objectives. It now needs more tangible, longer-term objectives against which to assess outcomes. This evaluation has contributed to evidence about primary care leadership needing more policy attention, for the balance of autonomy and accountability within GP leadership needs careful and sustained support.
Day-to-day reliability of basal heart rate and short-term and ultra short-term heart rate variability assessment by the Equivital eq02+ LifeMonitor in US Army soldiers
Authors: Chapman Christopher L , Schafer E A , Potter A W , Lavoie E M , Roberts B M , Castellani J W , Friedl K E , Looney D P
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The present study determined the (1) day-to-day reliability of basal heart rate (HR) and HR variability (HRV) measured by the Equivital eq02+ LifeMonitor and (2) agreement of ultra short-term HRV compared with short-term HRV.

Methods

Twenty-three active-duty US Army Soldiers (5 females, 18 males) completed two experimental visits separated by >48 hours with restrictions consistent with basal monitoring (eg, exercise, dietary), with measurements after supine rest at minutes 20–21 (ultra short-term) and minutes 20–25 (short-term). HRV was assessed as the SD of R–R intervals (SDNN) and the square root of the mean squared differences between consecutive R–R intervals (RMSSD).

Results

The day-to-day reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)) using linear-mixed model approach was good for HR (0.849, 95% CI: 0.689 to 0.933) and RMSSD (ICC: 0.823, 95% CI: 0.623 to 0.920). SDNN had moderate day-to-day reliability with greater variation (ICC: 0.689, 95% CI: 0.428 to 0.858). The reliability of RMSSD was slightly improved when considering the effect of respiration (ICC: 0.821, 95% CI: 0.672 to 0.944). There was no bias for HR measured for 1 min versus 5 min (p=0.511). For 1 min measurements versus 5 min, there was a very modest mean bias of −4 ms for SDNN and −1 ms for RMSSD (p≤0.023).

Conclusion

When preceded by a 20 min stabilisation period using restrictions consistent with basal monitoring and measuring respiration, military personnel can rely on the eq02+ for basal HR and RMSSD monitoring but should be more cautious using SDNN. These data also support using ultra short-term measurements when following these procedures.
Development of Mixed Matrix Membranes by Using NH2‐Functionalized UiO‐66 and [APTMS][AC] Ionic Liquid for the Separation of CO2
Authors: Khalid Hafiza Mamoona , Mujahid Afshan , Ali Asif , Khan Asim Laeeq , Saleem Mahmood , Santos Rafael M.
Published: July 2024

The ever‐escalating CO2 concentration in the atmosphere calls for accelerated development and deployment of carbon capture processes to reduce emissions. Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs), which are fabricated by incorporating the beneficial properties of highly selective inorganic fillers into a polymer matrix, have exhibited significant progress and the ability to enhance the performance of a membrane for gas separation. In this research, an amine‐based ionic liquid (IL) [APTMS][AC] was prepared, which has greater CO2 affinity and greater solubility due to its amine moiety. The metal–organic framework (MOF) UiO‐66 with a multidimensional crystalline structure was used as a filler due to its appropriate porosity and tunable properties, and it was functionalized with NH2. MOFs were further modified with an IL to prepare UiO‐66@IL and UiO‐66‐NH2@IL, and MMMs incorporating each MOF were fabricated with the polymer Pebax‐1657. All the prepared membranes and MOFs were characterized to predict their separation efficiency. Several characterization techniques, namely, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, and SEM, were used to successfully synthesize UiO‐66@IL and UiO‐66‐NH2@IL composites and confirmed proper dispersion and excellent polymer‒filler compatibility at filler loadings ranging from 0 to 30 wt.%. The separation performances were investigated, and the results showed that the incorporation of RTIL with the highly crystalline structure and large surface area of UiO‐66 enhanced the separation efficiency of the membrane. The permeability of CO2 for all fabricated membranes continuously increased with increasing filler concentration, wherein the permeability was comparatively high for the UiO‐66‐NH2 MMMs. The CO2/CH4 selectivity improved by 35%, 54%, and 60%, respectively, for UiO‐66@IL, UiO‐66‐NH2, and UiO‐66‐NH2@IL MMMs compared to simple UiO‐66 for CO2/CH4 and by 28%, 36%, and 63%, respectively, for CO2/N2, with an increase in filler loading in the MMMs.
Selective Caries Removal: A Case Report with 21‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Imparato José Carlos Pettorossi , Moreira Kelly Maria Silva , Oliveira Suzana Cavalcanti Monteiro de , da Silva Sandra Regina Echeverria Pinho , Raggio Daniela Prócida
Published: July 2024

Dental caries remains the most prevalent chronic disease globally, and its management should adhere to the principles of minimal intervention dentistry. This study reports a series of successful cases involving the selective removal of carious tissue in permanent molars, with follow‐up periods of up to 21 years. Six permanent molars with severe and deep carious lesions were treated with selective caries removal and restored with high‐viscosity glass ionomer cement. Clinical examination revealed that the teeth were free from pain and sensitivity. Follow‐up assessments were conducted at 7 and 21 years posttreatment. Treatment success was defined by the absence of clinical and radiographic signs, symptoms of pulp alterations, and lesion arrest. Successful minimally invasive approaches were observed with selective removal of carious tissue and maintenance of pulp vitality for up to 21 years.
Optimising the Hydro‐Thermal Performance of a Four‐Lobed Swirl Tube by Changing the Post‐Swirl Pipe Length
Authors: Feng Xingyu , Miles Nicholas J. , Li Guozhen , Gao Jiarui , Wang Zheng , Hall Philip
Published: July 2024

This study explored the heat transfer performance of a decaying swirl flow generated by a four‐lobed swirl generator with simulations and experiments. In the experimental studies, the thermal performance of a swirl generator was compared with that of a circular tube, indicating that the printed swirl generator provided better heat transfer performance than the printed circular tube. Further experiments were performed over a range of Reynolds numbers with different lengths of post‐swirl, circular pipe to assess the decay of swirl, downstream. Here, for shorter lengths of post‐swirl, circular pipe, the thermal improvement was maintained, but this advantage was lost with longer circular pipe runs. In numerical studies, the effect of various pitch‐to‐diameter (PD) ratios of the swirl pipe, including the actual swirl pipe (in-swirl) as a part of the heat exchanger or excluding it (ex-swirl), and the effect of different post‐swirl section lengths were investigated. The heat transfer rate and pressure drop increased with the reduction of the PD ratio, and the in‐swirl arrangements gave higher thermal enhancement and similar pressure loss compared with the ex‐swirl arrangements. The PD6 in‐swirl arrangement gave the highest thermal enhancement for all the geometries. Applying the swirl intensity and the field synergy principle confirmed these results, showing that any thermal enhancement created by swirl generators disappeared rapidly after exiting the swirl tube. In addition, the field synergy principle was more suited to explain the thermal enhancement effect of the decaying swirl flow instead of swirl intensity. This study demonstrates that by optimising the post‐swirl pipe length, overall heat transfer performance can be increased by around 5% with a pressure drop of less than 16%.
Functional Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy‐Based Computer‐Aided Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder Using Convolutional Neural Network with a New Channel Embedding Layer Considering Inter‐Hemispheric Asymmetry in Prefrontal Hemodynamic Responses
Authors: Lee Kyeonggu , Kwon Jinuk , Chun Minyoung , Choi JongKwan , Lee Seung-Hwan , Im Chang-Hwan
Published: July 2024

Background. Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is being extensively explored as a potential primary screening tool for major depressive disorder (MDD) because of its portability, cost‐effectiveness, and low susceptibility to motion artifacts. However, the fNIRS‐based computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) of MDD using deep learning methods has rarely been studied. In this study, we propose a novel deep learning framework based on a convolutional neural network (CNN) for the fNIRS‐based CAD of MDD with high accuracy. Materials and Methods. The fNIRS data of participants—48 patients with MDD and 68 healthy controls (HCs)—were obtained while they performed a Stroop task. The hemodynamic responses calculated from the preprocessed fNIRS data were used as inputs to the proposed CNN model with an ensemble CNN architecture, comprising three 1D depth‐wise convolutional layers specifically designed to reflect interhemispheric asymmetry in hemodynamic responses between patients with MDD and HCs, which is known to be a distinct characteristic in previous MDD studies. The performance of the proposed model was evaluated using a leave‐one‐subject‐out cross‐validation strategy and compared with those of conventional machine learning and CNN models. Results. The proposed model exhibited a high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 84.48%, 83.33%, and 85.29%, respectively. The accuracies of conventional machine learning algorithms—shrinkage linear discriminator analysis, regularized support vector machine, EEGNet, and ShallowConvNet—were 73.28%, 74.14%, 62.93%, and 62.07%, respectively. Conclusions. In conclusion, the proposed deep learning model can differentiate between the patients with MDD and HCs more accurately than the conventional models, demonstrating its applicability in fNIRS‐based CAD systems.
Molecular Detection of Tick‐Borne Pathogens in Kumasi: With a First Report of Zoonotic Pathogens in Abattoir Workers
Authors: Addo Seth Offei , Amoah Stacy , Unicorn Nancy Martekai , Kyeremateng Emmanuella Tiwaa , Desewu Genevieve , Obuam Patrick Kwasi , Malm Richard Odoi-Teye , Osei-Frempong Emmanuel , Torto Francisca Adai , Accorlor Stephen Kwabena , Baidoo Philip Kweku , Dadzie Samuel K. , Larbi John Asiedu
Published: July 2024

Tick‐borne pathogens continue to infect humans and animals worldwide. By adapting to the movement of livestock, ticks facilitate the spread of these infectious pathogens. Humans in close contact with animals that could be amplifying hosts are especially at risk of being infected with tick‐borne pathogens. This study involved the collection of dry blood spots (DBSs) to determine tick‐borne pathogens occurring in slaughtered livestock and abattoir workers in Kumasi. This study employed the use of conventional PCR, RT‐PCR, and Sanger sequencing to detect and identify the tick‐borne pathogens. The resulting data was analysed using Stata version 13. A total of 175 DBSs were collected from goats (76), cattle (54), and sheep (45) in the Kumasi abattoir (130, 74.29%) and Akwatia Line slaughter slab (45, 25.71%). The pathogens identified were mostly bacterial including Anaplasma capra (9.71%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.14%), and Rickettsia aeschlimannii (0.57.%). The only parasite identified was Theileria ovis (9.14%). A significant association was seen between A. capra (p < 0.001) infection and female sheep sampled from the Akwatia Line slaughter slab. Again, there was a significant association between T. ovis (p < 0.001) infections and female sheep from the Kumasi abattoir. From the human DBS (63) screened, the pathogens identified were all bacterial including Coxiella burnetii (1.89%), Rickettsia africae (1.89%), and R. aeschlimannii (1.89%). This study reports the first detection of R. aeschlimannii in livestock as well as the occurrence of the above‐mentioned pathogens in humans in Ghana. Animals can serve as amplifying hosts for infectious pathogens; hence, there is an increased risk of infections among the abattoir workers. Continuous surveillance effort is essential, and abattoir workers need to protect themselves from tick bites and infectious tick‐borne pathogens.
Facile Synthesis Method of Self‐Assembled Ni‐Rich LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2/rGO Composite for High‐Performance Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Israel Nungu Nungu , Jenerali Nyamtara Kelvin , Cyril Karima Neema , Kim Sung Hoon , Nguyen Manh Cuong , Mai Duong Thi Phuong , Lim Sung Nam , Jun Yun-Seok , Ahn Wook
Published: July 2024

A hybrid material, LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2, with excess lithium and wrapped in reduced graphene oxide (rGO), has been synthesized through ultrasonication employing Triton X as a surfactant. The ultrasonication process breaks down the initially clustered large particles into small nanoparticles, ensuring a uniform composite with reduced graphene oxide. With a consistent capacity retention of 87.56% over 100 cycles, the cathode composite exhibits a promising initial capacity of around 250 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C. Notably, the composite has high‐rate capability, providing capacities of 230 and 178.9 mAh g−1 at 0.2 and 2 C, respectively. These experimental results indicate that the well‐dispersed LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 nanoparticles and the porous reduced graphene oxide framework work in concert to enhance the electrochemical performance of the reduced graphene oxide‐wrapped LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode material, which was achieved through ultrasonication with Triton X (TX‐100) surfactant assistance. This synergy allows for the fast diffusion of both Li ions (Li+) and electrons (e−) while also allowing volumetric variations during the introduction and withdrawal of Li ions (Li+). As a result, the fabrication of this reduced graphene oxide‐wrapped LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode material shows promise as a high‐rate cathode material, especially for energy storage applications.
Effect of Sidewalk Design and Obstructions on Pedestrian Mobility: A Case Study of the Main Streets of Mekelle City, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Gebremariam Dmtsu , Kuhilen Taamrat , Seboka Hanna , Grum Berhane
Published: July 2024

Walking is the cheapest and most flexible eco‐friendly mode of transport. Streets in developing countries are poorly designed and managed, and hence, there is no space or it is inadequate for walking. This study assessed the impact of narrow sidewalk designs and obstructions on safety and accessibility of pedestrians in the main streets of Mekelle city, northern Ethiopia. It also evaluated the effects of sidewalk obstructions on pedestrian level of service (PLOS). Primary data, such as road width, sidewalk space utilization, pedestrian flow, and pedestrian speed, were collected on the study main streets. Effective sidewalk width and pedestrian unit flow rate were used to evaluate the effectiveness of existing sidewalk facilities. Moreover, static obstruction management of streets was evaluated, and a minimum sidewalk width was proposed. This study revealed that sidewalk widths for most streets in Mekelle city were found below the minimum required width for mixed use areas. Besides, the average effective sidewalk width was found to be lower than the bare minimum width of 1.2 m required for two pedestrians pass each other. As a result, some of the streets in Mekelle are operating at low PLOS (E and F). Most sidewalks were designed below the minimum standard width, and they are poorly managed forcing about 25% of pedestrians to share with motorized traffic in some streets. To improve the performance of sidewalks in the main streets of Mekelle city, the minimum sidewalk width should be 4.0 m and needs to be constructed with proper zoning. Moreover, center placement of static obstructions should be avoided in narrow sidewalks. Placement of utility poles within or at the edge of frontage zone and trees at the furniture zone improves the existing effective sidewalk width by 73%. This study underlines that urban planners and designers should give emphasis to width sufficiency of sidewalks for safe mobility of pedestrians of all groups and to accommodate other road side activities.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Trends of Scarlet Fever in Zhejiang Province of China: Population‐Based Surveillance during 2004–2022
Authors: Fang Zhen , Ma Chenjin , Xu Wangli , Shi Xiuxiu , Liu Shelan
Published: July 2024

Background. Over the past two decades, scarlet fever has resurged in some countries or areas. Nationwide nonpharmaceutical interventions changed the patterns of other infectious diseases, but its effects on the spread of scarlet fever were rarely studied. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in scarlet fever incidence in Zhejiang Province, China, before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic periods and to provide references for scarlet fever prevention and control. Methods. Scarlet fever surveillance data in Zhejiang, China (2004–2022), were analyzed in three stages. Two‐sample z test, ANOVA, and Tukey’s test were used to compare and analyze the characteristics of disease spread at different stages. The ARIMA model was used to predict the overall trend. The data were obtained from the National Infectious Disease Reporting Information System. Results. A total of 28,652 cases of scarlet fever were reported across Zhejiang Province during the study period, with the lowest average monthly incidences in 2020 (0.111/100,000). The predominant areas affected were the northern and central regions of Zhejiang, and all regions of Zhejiang experienced a decrease in incidence in 2020. The steepest decline in incidence in 2020 was found in children aged 0–4 years (67.3% decrease from 23.8/100,000 to 7.8/100,000). The seasonal pattern changed, with peak occurrences in April to June and November to January during 2004–2019 and 2021 and a peak in January in 2020. The median duration from diagnosis to confirmation was highest before COVID‐19 (4 days); however, it decreased to 1 day in 2020–2022, matching the other two medians. Conclusions. In 2020, Zhejiang experienced an unprecedented decrease in scarlet fever, with the lowest incidence in nearly 18 years, but it rebounded in 2021 and 2022. The seasonal epidemiologic characteristics of scarlet fever also changed with the COVID‐19 outbreaks. This suggested that nationwide nonpharmaceutical interventions greatly depressed the spread of scarlet fever. With the relaxation of non‐pharmaceutical intervention restrictions, scarlet fever may reappear. Government policymakers should prioritize the control of future scarlet fever outbreaks for public health.
Power Generation at Low Temperatures Using Thermoelectric Generators and Cost Analysis
Authors: Zhu Yuhao , Li Kewen , Mgijimi Mahlalela Bhekumuzi , Linghu Jianshe , Kuai Pingyu , Yang Guodong , Yang Luyu
Published: July 2024

Interest in thermoelectric generators (TEGs) for waste heat recovery (WHR) and geothermal energy has grown significantly in recent years due to the ability to convert low‐grade thermal energy into electricity, which is essential to reduce carbon emissions. One of the main challenges in TEG power generation is the expandability and the number of layers in TEG devices. The currently reported maximum number of layers is six. In this study, the expandable TEG devices with different number of layers, up to 20, were designed and manufactured. The field tests have been then conducted with these TEG devices using the waste heat from a coal bed methane power plant at a temperature of around 80°C. To our best knowledge, this is the lowest temperature at which TEG field tests have been implemented. At a flow rate of about 3 m3/hr, a TEG unit with a volume of about 3 m3 can generate a power of 15 kW at a temperature difference of 60°C. The power density and power per unit area of the TEG are investigated and compared to those of diesel generators and photovoltaic panels at different temperature differences. Furthermore, to offer guidance for the commercial‐scale implementation of TEG, we have estimated the fabrication and installation costs, as well as the levelized cost of electricity, across various temperature differences. The results indicate that TEG is a feasible and promising technology for large‐scale power generation and WHR.
Multimodality Data Augmentation Network for Arrhythmia Classification
Authors: Xu Zhimin , Zang Mujun , Liu Tong , Wang Zhihao , Zhou Shusen , Liu Chanjuan , Wang Qingjun
Published: July 2024

Arrhythmia is a prevalent cardiovascular disease, which has garnered widespread attention due to its age‐related increases in mortality rates. In the analysis of arrhythmia, the electrocardiogram (ECG) plays an important role. Arrhythmia classification often suffers from a significant data imbalance issue due to the limited availability of data for certain arrhythmia categories. This imbalance problem significantly affects the classification performance of the model. To address this challenge, data augmentation emerges as a viable solution, aiming to neutralize the adverse effects of imbalanced datasets on the model. To this end, this paper proposes a novel Multimodality Data Augmentation Network (MM‐DANet) for arrhythmia classification. The MM‐DANet consists of two modules: the multimodality data matching‐based data augmentation module and the multimodality feature encoding module. In the multimodality data matching‐based data augmentation module, we expand the underrepresented arrhythmia categories to match the size of the largest category. Subsequently, the multimodality feature encoding module employs convolutional neural networks (CNN) to extract the modality‐specific features from both signals and images and concatenate them for efficient and accurate classification. The MM‐DANet was evaluated on the MIT‐BIH Arrhythmia Database and achieving an accuracy of 98.83%, along with an average specificity of 98.87%, average sensitivity of 92.92%, average precision of 91.05%, and average F1_score of 91.96%. Furthermore, its performance was also assessed on the St. Petersburg INCART arrhythmia database and the MIT‐BIH supraventricular arrhythmia database, yielding AUC values of 81.98% and 90.93%, respectively. These outstanding results not only underscore the effectiveness of MM‐DANet but also indicate its potential for facilitating reliable automated analysis of arrhythmias.
A cautionary note on synonymization based on mitochondrial data in Orthoptera: a comment of Hochkirch et al. 2023
Authors: NABHOLZ BENOIT , PUISSANT STÉPHANE , DEFAUT BERNARD
Published: July 2024

Hochkirch et al. (2023) recently published a phylogeny of the band-winged grasshopper genus Oedipoda. Using three mitochondrial and one nuclear loci, they estimated the phylogeny of 177 specimens. This phylogeny offers insights into the evolutionary history and biogeography of the group and demonstrates the usefulness of molecular data to estimated populations and species histories. They also provide valid taxonomical changes, raising two former subspecies and one former synonymy to the species level. However, we believe that taxonomic changes regarding synonymization proposed by the authors are premature given the data utilized. Indeed, we will illustrate cases below where well-established species lack support from mitochondrial data, which is comparable to or even more extensive than that used by Hochkirch et al. (2023).
Schistophleps kendricki sp. nov. (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) from Bangladesh with an overview of the genus
Authors: RAYHAN MD JAHIR , BUCSEK KAROL , JAHAN SAYEMA
Published: July 2024

Schistophleps Hampson, 1891 is one of the most frequently occurring genera of tiger moths, widely distributed in the Oriental and Australian regions. However, a lion’s share of the species belonging to this genus are poorly known except the original descriptions. In this article, we provide a brief overview of all known species currently assigning to this genus. We divide the species into albida, bicolora, bipuncta, flavia, fulvia, hyalina, and subtilis species groups on the basis of wing pattern elements along with geographic distributions, and four highly obscure species are discussed as a miscellaneous group. Among the species, Schistophleps bipuncta Hampson, 1891 is the most frequently occurring taxon having a distribution stretching all over the South East Asia. However, the variable wing maculations and other features, reflected through the observations on various citizen science platforms from different regions of the Indian subcontinent indicate to a sibling species yet to discover. Herein, we describe the species as Schistophleps kendricki Rayhan, Bucsek, & Jahan sp. nov., from Chittagong, Bangladesh that is similar to the Schistophleps bipuncta species group in wing maculation, but markedly differs from all of its closely allied congeners in the genitalia configurations in having characteristic modification of uncus. Besides, a comparison of observations on different citizen science platforms from the Indian subcontinent is provided that suggests the possible distribution of this new species throughout the Bengal including West Bengal, India and Bangladesh.
Early development of Brachyplatystoma juruense (Boulenger, 1898) (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae)
Authors: SILVA FABÍOLA KATRINE SOUZA DA , CAJADO RUINERIS ALMADA , OLIVEIRA LUCAS SILVA DE , SANTOS DARLIANE CAMPOS DOS , AVILA LEANDRO CORTES , ZACARDI DIEGO MAIA
Published: July 2024

The early development stages of Brachyplatystoma juruense (Boulenger) are described through morphological, meristic, and morphometric data, providing useful traits to identify its larvae and juveniles. Additionally, the growth pattern throughout the species’ development has been determined from the smallest specimen of 3.93 mm (flexion) to the largest of 25.77 mm (juvenile). Ninety-one specimens classified into two larval stages (flexion and postflexion) and five juveniles were analyzed. The individuals were collected between 2011 and 2019 at sampling stations distributed across the Amazon basin, in the water systems of the Japurá, Solimões, and Amazonas rivers. The larvae and juveniles are characterized by having small, spherical eye, terminal mouth, rounded snout, and a dorsoventrally flattened head with three pairs of barbels (two pairs of mental barbels and one pair of maxillary). The anus does not reach the midbody region, and the adipose fin has a triangular shape. The upper caudal-fin rays extend, forming long caudal filaments. Initial pigmentation is restricted to dendritic and punctiform chromatophores irregularly distributed on the dorsal region of the head, and from postflexion onwards, along the dorsal region of the body. The total number of myomeres varies from 58 to 59 (22 pre-anal and 36 to 37 post-anal). During early development, B. juruense exhibits predominantly isometric growth. Larvae and juveniles of B. juruense can be identified by the number of myomeres, external morphology including pigmentation, head shape, and morphometric proportions. This information is essential for the accurate identification of larvae and juveniles captured in their natural environment.
Conostigmus nankunensis (Hymenoptera: Ceraphronoidea), a new species from China with a long facial sulcus
Authors: QIAN CHENZHENGXIN , LI FANG , HUANG YIXIN , WANG XU
Published: July 2024

A new species of the megaspiline genus Conostigmus Dahlbom with a distinct facial sulcus is described and figured from material collected in yellow pan traps. Conostigmus nankunensis Qian and Wang sp. nov., is the fifth species of Conostigmus described from China.
Butyricimonas faecihominis: an atypically resistant bacterium implicated in abscess formation - a case report
Authors: Wessendorf Lukas , Brezina Tobias , Dusse Fabian , Wiegel Pia , Boschert Alessa L.
Published: July 2024

Background

This case report presents a unique instance of abscesses with an uncommon pathogen isolated from blood cultures.

Case presentation

We present the case of a perianal abscess in a 50-year-old man with a history of cocaine abuse and bilateral hip replacements. The rapid progression led to septic shock and multi-organ failure, requiring intensive care unit admission, surgery including protective transversostomy. Blood cultures showed growth of Butyricimonas spp. with resistance to penicillin and piperacillin-tazobactam. The immediate switch to meropenem led to a significant improvement in the patient’s condition. The patient was discharged after 40 days of hospitalization in good general condition and the reversal of the transversostomy was performed six months later.

Conclusion

The identification of Butyricimonas faecihominis, a rarely reported pathogen, emphasizes the challenges of diagnosing and treating unusual infections. This case emphasizes the importance of rapid microbiological diagnosis, interdisciplinary collaboration, and targeted antibiotic therapy in the treatment of abscesses and sepsis.
Association between organophosphorus insecticides exposure and osteoarthritis in patients with arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease
Authors: Zhu Shenhao , Zhou Yang , Chao Menglin , Zhang Yuqing , Cheng Weili , Xu Hongyao , Zhang Lai , Tao Qin , Da Qiang
Published: July 2024

Background

Organic phosphorus insecticides (OPPs) are a class of environmental pollutants widely used worldwide with potential human health risks. We aimed to assess the association between exposure to OPPs and osteoarthritis (OA) particularly in participants with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Methods

Participants’ information was obtained from data in the National Health and Nutrition Examination (NHANES). Weighted logistic regression models were utilized to detect associations between OPPs metabolites and OA. Restricted cubic spline plots (RCS) were drawn to visualize the dose-response relationship between each metabolite and OA prevalence. Weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression and Bayesian kernel-machine regression (BKMR), were applied to investigate the joint effect of mixtures of OPPs on OA.

Results

A total of 6871 samples were included in our study, no significant associations between OPPs exposure and OA incidence were found in whole population. However, in a subset of 475 individuals with ASCVD, significant associations between DMP (odds ratio [OR] as a continuous variable = 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07,1.28), DEP ((odds ratio [OR] of the highest tertile compared to the lowest = 2.43, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21,4.86), and OA were observed. DMP and DEP showed an increasing dose-response relationship to the prevalence of OA, while DMTP, DETP, DMDTP and DEDTP showed a nonlinear relationship. Multi-contamination modeling revealed a 1.34-fold (95% confidence intervals:0.80, 2.26) higher prevalence of OA in participants with high co-exposure to OPPs compared to those with low co-exposure, with a preponderant weighting (0.87) for the dimethyl dialkyl phosphate metabolites (DMAPs). The BKMR also showed that co-exposure of mixed OPPs was associated with an increased prevalence of OA, with DMP showing a significant dose-response relationship.

Conclusion

High levels of urine dialkyl phosphate metabolites (DAP) of multiple OPPs are associated with an increased prevalence of OA in patients with ASCVD, suggesting the need to prevent exposure to OPPs in ASCVD patients to avoid triggering OA and further avoid the occurrence of cardiovascular events caused by OA.
Standardization of Dental Vulnerability Scale scores (EVO-BR)
Authors: de Oliveira Daniele Boina , Belotti Lorrayne , Eshriqui Ilana , Rebustini Flávio , da Costa Palácio Danielle , Bonfim Daiana , Paresque Marcio Anderson Cardozo , Ribeiro Danielle Viana , Barbieri Wander , Tedesco Tamara Kerber
Published: July 2024

Background

Dental Vulnerability Scale (EVO-BR) is an instrument developed to help identifying oral health-vulnerable individuals. This scale comprises 15 items distributed into 4 dimensions. It is the first instrument with the potential to guide clinical and managerial decisions in the oral health field. The aim is to validate a score to enable using EVO-BR in Primary Health Care (PHC).

Method

The investigated sample included PHC users in five Brazilian regions. Data were collected at two different stages: in 2019 (São Paulo) and in 2022 (Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso, Roraima, Pernambuco e Paraná). Exploratory descriptive study of this scale scores was carried out to create classification ranges. Subsequently, discriminant analysis was performed to assess the accuracy of the established classification. Boosting regression was carried out to check items’ weight for the instrument score.

Results

EVO-BR score ranged from 0 (highest vulnerability) to 15 (lowest vulnerability). Four (4) classification configurations were tested. Score equal to 12 points was the one presenting the best classification of the assessed individuals (100% were correctly classified). Boosting regression has evidenced that items 1 and 2 (Overall health domain) and 14 and 15 (Health Services domain) had the strongest influence on this instrument’s score.

Conclusion

The process to standardize the EVO-BR score and, consequently, to develop assessment ranges, is an important step in the fight against health inequalities, since it provides a tool to help planning actions and interventions aimed at meeting specific needs of the population in the Primary Health Care context.
Mindful self-care among oncology nurses in China: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Shi Yan , Wang Peng , Liu Lamei , Li Mengmeng
Published: July 2024

Background

Oncology nurses are considered the group with the highest risk for moral distress, compassion fatigue and burnout. Mindful self-care may help oncology nurses improve their well-being and solve psychological problems. However, the investigation and in-depth analysis of mindful self-care among oncology nurses in China is lacking.

Objectives

To identify heterogeneity groups of oncology nurses on mindful self-care ability and examine the sociodemographic correlation to these profiles.

Design

Cross-sectional descriptive study.

Participants

The study was carried out among oncology nurses in two affiliated comprehensive hospitals and one affiliated oncology hospital. A total of 839 oncology nurses were enrolled in this survey.

Methods

From January to May 2023, a cross-sectional study was carried out among oncology nurses using convenient sampling. The subjects were given the brief Mindful Self-Care Scale (B-MSCS) and the General Demographic Information Questionnaire. Latent profile analysis using the Mplus 7.4 program was used to separate oncology nurses’ mindful self-care into a variety of subgroups. The SPSS 25.0 statistical program was used to analyze the data. One-way ANOVA and the chi-square test were performed to compare the score of B-MSCS in each class and the difference in sociodemographic characteristics among the subgroups. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the influence of the sociodemographic variables on each class.

Results

The total score of the B-MSCS was 76.40 ± 13.19. The support structure dimension had the highest score, with an average mean value of 3.60, and physical care had the lowest score at 2.57. The findings of the latent profile analysis showed that respondents were divided into three classes, moderate mindful self-care(51.2%), low-low mindful relaxation(14.8%), and high-high mindfulness self-awareness(34.0%). Across scale scores and dimensions, three groups demonstrated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed significant differences between the three profiles in terms of professional title, position, concern about self-care, interest in mindfulness, and experience with meditation (p < 0.05). Profile membership was predicted by 3 factors, namely, self-care status, interest in mindfulness, and experience with meditation.

Conclusion

The mindful self-care among oncology nurses can be categorized into three latent profiles: moderate mindful self-care, low-low mindful relaxation, and high-high mindfulness self-awareness. Multinomial logistic regression results indicated that whether oncology nurses concern about self-care, interest in mindfulness and have experience with meditation influenced different latent profiles. Nursing manager should develop targeted intervention based on the typological characteristics of the oncology nurses to improve their mindful self-care ability and mental health.