bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐dose adjuvant dexmedetomidine did not decrease propofol sedation requirements in children undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy
Authors: Johnson Eric G. , Weaver Sarah G. , Batt Kelsey L. , Weaver Robert H. , Schadler Aric , Hall Sarah J.
Published: September 2022

Background

Propofol is the cornerstone of deep sedation during pediatric esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), though adjuvant dexmedetomidine may provide propofol‐sparing benefits.

Objective

The objective of the study was to evaluate whether adjuvant dexmedetomidine decreases the total propofol dose in pediatric patients undergoing EGD.

Methods

This single‐center, retrospective, cohort study evaluated the total propofol dose in pediatric patients undergoing EGD with and without the use of adjuvant dexmedetomidine. Secondary outcomes included the change in hemodynamics across the perioperative continuum and post‐procedure recovery time. A multivariable general linear regression was performed to identify associated variables for recovery time post‐procedure.

Results

A total of 159 patients were included in the study; 88 patients received dexmedetomidine and propofol (DEX‐PRO), and 71 patients received propofol only (PRO). The median [interquartile range (IQR)] propofol dose in the DEX‐PRO group was 0.26 [IQR, 0.17–0.36] mg kg−1 min−1 which was not significantly different than the PRO group at 0.27 [IQR, 0.21–0.34] mg kg−1 min−1, p = 0.730. Evaluation of secondary end points showed the DEX‐PRO group had more cases of post‐anesthesia care unit (PACU) hypotension (61% vs. 34%, p = 0.001) and a longer recovery time (32.9 ± 14.1 vs. 25.6 ± 10.8 min, p < 0.001) versus the PRO group, respectively. Multivariable linear regression demonstrated that age and the use of dexmedetomidine were associated with prolonged recovery.

Conclusion

Adjuvant dexmedetomidine did not reduce propofol requirements compared with propofol alone in pediatric patients undergoing EGD. More hypotension and a longer postoperative recovery time were also seen in patients receiving adjuvant dexmedetomidine for their endoscopic procedure.
Characterization and study of the vulcanization characteristics of ultra‐cold‐resistant reactive chlorinated acrylic rubber prepared by emulsion polymerization
Authors: Yang Xing‐Bing , Lei Ting , Lu Wei , Huang Xiang , Jiang Lei
Published: September 2022

In a system initiated by potassium persulfate, an ultra‐cold‐resistant reactive chlorinated resin rubber was synthesized by emulsion polymerization. In this emulsion polymerization, ethyl acrylate and butyl acrylate were used as the main components of the rubber monomer. 2‐Methoxyethyl acrylate was used as a cold‐resistant monomer, and vinyl chloroacetate was used as a vulcanized monomer. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and other rubber detection standards were used to characterize the structure and properties of the synthetic acrylate rubber. Studies showed that acrylate rubber was synthesized by emulsion polymerization, and each monomer achieved random copolymerization with high conversion. The synthetic acrylate rubber has excellent low‐temperature resistance (the brittleness temperature is −36.5 °C). In addition, the rubber has excellent mechanical properties and a high vulcanization speed and is a fast‐vulcanizing acrylic rubber. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Towards market commercialization: Lifecycle economic and environmental evaluation of scalable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Martulli Alessandro , Rajagopalan Neethi , Gota Fabrizio , Meyer Toby , Paetzold Ulrich W. , Claes Steven , Salone Alberto , Verboven Jordy , Malina Robert , Vermang Bart , Lizin Sebastien
Published: September 2022

Many economic and environmental studies on novel perovskite solar cells (PSCs), published ex post the development stage to investigate the market competitiveness, have focused on laboratory‐scale PSC architectures that are not amenable for upscaling. In this paper, we evaluate the market potential and environmental sustainability of a scalable carbon‐electrode‐based PSC by benchmarking it to the market dominating c‐Si photovoltaics and CIGS thin film photovoltaics. The analysis covers the PSCs full lifecycle, at the module and system levels (residential and utility scale), and is based on realistic annual energy output data derived from energy yield calculations. We find that this PSC can produce electricity at low cost (3–6 €cents/kWh), with lowest energy payback (0.6–0.8 years) and greenhouse gas emissions (15–25g CO2 eq./kWh) compared with grid‐connected PV market alternatives, assuming 25years of lifetime, expected PV system cost reductions, and PSC module recycling and refurbishment.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Pyrolysis and Oxidation of NEPE Propellant
Authors: Wen Zhengcheng , Zhao Xiang , Li Heping , Huang Xuefeng , Wang Fang , Li Wei , Tang Gen , Feng Muye
Published: September 2022

NEPE propellant is a new type of propellant with high energy and good low‐temperature mechanical properties. However, due to the lack of detailed research on its microscopic pyrolysis and oxidation mechanism, its combustion performance is challenging to regulate, limiting the further development. Therefore, a core‐shell nanoparticle model (Al/Al2O3/HMX/NEPE) with 12257 atoms is constructed in this paper. Based on the above force field, we mainly analyze the behavior of high temperature pyrolysis. At the same time, key intermediate products and key original reactions are obtained. It is found that the pyrolysis and oxidation of NEPE propellant can be roughly divided into three stages: (1) Pyrolytic warming stage (0–200 ps), (2) Rapid reaction stage (200–400 ps), (3) Stable reaction stage (400–1200 ps). The pyrolysis and oxidation of HMX/NEPE on the Al(Aluminium) core surface is essentially a gradual fracture of the macromolecular structure. Due to high temperature pyrolysis, a large amount of NO2, NO, NH and NH2 are produced in the system. NO, NO2 interacts with NH and NH2, resulting in the rapid accumulation of N2 and H2O while generating a large amount of heat, which is the main reason for the heating of the system. The present study would contribute to the formulation design and combustion performance regulation of NEPE solid propellants, which is an essential reference value.
Simple mechanisms for the evolution of protein complexity
Authors: Pillai Arvind S. , Hochberg Georg K.A. , Thornton Joseph W.
Published: September 2022

Proteins are tiny models of biological complexity: specific interactions among their many amino acids cause proteins to fold into elaborate structures, assemble with other proteins into higher‐order complexes, and change their functions and structures upon binding other molecules. These complex features are classically thought to evolve via long and gradual trajectories driven by persistent natural selection. But a growing body of evidence from biochemistry, protein engineering, and molecular evolution shows that naturally occurring proteins often exist at or near the genetic edge of multimerization, allostery, and even new folds, so just one or a few mutations can trigger acquisition of these properties. These sudden transitions can occur because many of the physical properties that underlie these features are present in simpler proteins as fortuitous by‐products of their architecture. Moreover, complex features of proteins can be encoded by huge arrays of sequences, so they are accessible from many different starting points via many possible paths. Because the bridges to these features are both short and numerous, random chance can join selection as a key factor in explaining the evolution of molecular complexity.
Causation analysis of fire explosion in the port's hazardous chemicals storage area based on FTA‐AHP
Authors: Chang Yong , Zhang Dehao
Published: September 2022

At 22:51 on August 12, 2015, a fire explosion accident occurred in the hazardous cargo warehouse of the Ruihai Company, which is located in Tianjin Port, Binhai New Area, Tianjin. This accident killed 165 people and caused direct economic losses of 6.866 billion yuan. In order to reduce the occurrence and harm of fire explosion accidents in the port's hazardous chemicals storage area, the main influencing factors were analyzed using the fault tree analysis‐analytic hierarchy process (FTA‐AHP) method, and each factor was quantitatively analyzed. Taking a hazardous chemicals storage yard in Shanghai as an example, the cause of fire explosion in a hazardous chemicals storage area was obtained by establishing a fault tree analysis (FTA) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP). Then, the AHP model was established to calculate the weight of each influencing factor, and finally, the total weight ratio of each influencing factor was obtained. The results showed that human factors were the main and direct factors, equipment and facilities factors were the secondary factors, and management factors were the fundamental factors in fire explosion accidents in the port's hazardous chemicals storage areas. According to the evaluation results, a prevention and control strategy for fire explosion accidents in hazardous chemicals storage areas is proposed, which has reference value for relevant management departments.
Key correlates of exclusive breastfeeding at three timepoints: Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Yigletu Seblewongel , Tendulkar Shalini A. , Holmes Ashley C. , Abdelmenan Semira , Tadesse Amare , Berhane Hanna Y. , Kosinski Karen C.
Published: September 2022

Aim

To compare factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) within 1 h of birth, within 3 days, and within the first 6 months post‐birth.

Methods

We used multivariate logistic regression models and data from “The Alive and Thrive Phase 2 Amhara Baseline Survey 2015” from Ethiopia (N = 3113).

Results

Giving colostrum was strongly associated with EBF at all three time points, controlling for multiple confounders. Putting the baby to the breast before cleaning the baby and before cleaning the mother was significantly associated with EBF within 1 h and for the first 3 days. EBF within an hour of birth was more likely for girl babies than boy babies. Having a healthcare professional check whether the baby was sucking well was significantly associated with EBF 3 days post‐birth.

Conclusions

The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding within 1 h of birth and exclusively thereafter for 6 months, which can improve health outcomes for infants and children. In Ethiopia, many factors influence breastfeeding practices, but little is known about how these factors differ at various key timepoints in the 6 months after birth. Our study provides important information on correlates of EBF at three timepoints and shows that factors that are significantly correlated with EBF vary over time. Future research should assess the potential causal links among statistically significant associations between EBF and risk factors at various times between birth and 6 months of age. Ultimately, these findings have the potential to inform areas of intervention related to promoting EBF.
Cadmium Removal from Cadmium‐Containing Apatites by Ion‐Exchange Reactions
Authors: Zalim Yassine , Benayada Abbès , El Ahmadi Zakia
Published: September 2022

The exchange reaction of cadmium by non‐toxic metallic cation ions in a cadmium‐containing apatite was studied. A cadmium‐containing apatite with characteristics close to those of natural phosphate ore was synthesized. Copper and then zinc ions have been found to be the most effective elements for the exchange reaction. After 4 h of treatment at room temperature, 25 % and 14 % of cadmium were removed using 0.1 msolutions of copper and zinc ions, respectively. At 60 °C, cadmium removal efficiency improved considerably. For copper ions, the efficiency reached 53 %, while it arrived at 25 % for zinc ions. The equilibrium study shows that the two reactions are thermodynamically feasible but balanced reactions with little reaction progress for small cadmium content. The reaction can be well modeled by the shrinking‐core model and is found to be controlled by the diffusion through the reacted layer.
Hydrophobic‐Binding‐Driven and Fluoresence‐Free Development of Aged Fingerprints Based on Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Yayi , Peng Di
Published: September 2022

The requirement of nonfluorescent developers for aged latent fingerprint development is still of great urgency in forensic science. To enhance the specific interaction between fingerprint residue and nano‐developers, a γ‐methacryloxy propyl trimethoxyl silane (MPTS) modified zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO NP) was synthesized. The crystal structure, morphology, surface functional group, thermostability, UV/Vis spectra, photoluminescence and stability of sedimentation were characterized to prove the hydrophobicity, UV blocking nature and nonfluorescence of as‐prepared MPTS‐modified ZnO NPs. Additionally, after the specific surface area (SSA) of samples with different MPTS amount was analyzed by BET, a competitive adsorption mechanism between silane‐ZnO bonding and silane oligomer‐ZnO deposition was suggested. In the demonstration of latent fingerprint development, the powder dusting method was utilized on various surfaces both in positive and reversed imaging modes, exhibiting the high contrast, high sensitivity, high selectivity and wide applicability, even for aged fingerprints. Therefore, it provides a new strategy for fast, efficient and inexpensive development of older latent fingerprints in forensic analysis.
Supramolecular Self‐Assembly Modes of Cyclopentanocucurbit[6]uril and Aromatic Amines
Authors: Deng Shaojie , Zheng Jun , Ma Yue , Wang Shanfei , Yang Xinan , Ma Peihua
Published: September 2022

ZnCl2 has been used as a structural inducer in hydrochloric acid solution to construct three supramolecular frameworks of action utilizing cyclopentanocucurbit[6]uril (CyP6Q[6]) as the host and (4‐aminophenyl)methanol (G1), 4‐benzylaniline (G2), and 4,4’‐diaminobenzophenone (G3) as guests. The structure was confirmed using X‐ray single crystal diffraction, 1HNMR spectroscopy, and mass spectroscopy (MS). The results showed that G1 entered the molecular cavity of CyP6Q[6], CyP6Q[6] had portal and outer‐surface interactions with G2, and G3 only acted on the outer surface of CyP6Q[6] with calcium ion coordination.
Spatially Guided Construction of Multilayered Epidermal Models Recapturing Structural Hierarchy and Cell–Cell Junctions
Authors: Zhai Haiwei , Jin Xiaowei , Minnick Grayson , Rosenbohm Jordan , Hafiz Mohammed Abdul Haleem , Yang Ruiguo , Meng Fanben
Published: September 2022

A current challenge in 3D bioprinting of skin equivalents is to recreate the distinct basal and suprabasal layers and promote their direct interactions. Such a structural arrangement is essential to establish 3D stratified epidermis disease models, such as for the autoimmune skin disease pemphigus vulgaris (PV), which targets the cell–cell junctions at the interface of the basal and suprabasal layers. Inspired by epithelial regeneration in wound healing, a method that combines 3D bioprinting and spatially guided self‐reorganization of keratinocytes is developed to recapture the fine structural hierarchy that lies in the deep layers of the epidermis. Herein, keratinocyte‐laden fibrin hydrogels are bioprinted to create geographical cues, guiding dynamic self‐reorganization of cells through collective migration, keratinocyte differentiation, and vertical expansion. This process results in a region of self‐organized multilayers (SOMs) that contain the basal‐to‐suprabasal transition, marked by the expressed levels of different types of keratins that indicate differentiation. Finally, the reconstructed skin tissue as an in vitro platform to study the pathogenic effects of PV is demonstrated, illuminating a significant difference in cell–cell junction dissociation induced by PV antibodies in different epidermis layers, which indicates their applications in the preclinical test of possible therapies.
Difluorine‐Substituted Molecule‐Based Low‐Dimensional Structure for Highly Stable Tin Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Mingyuan , Ma Mingyu , Guo Yang , Yuan Songyang , Xiong Hui , Tan Ziyu , Li Wenzhe , Fan Jiandong , Ning Zhijun
Published: September 2022

Despite tin perovskite showing excellent optoelectronic properties such as ideal bandgap and high carrier mobility, the intrinsic instability of tin perovskite due to the reaction with water and oxygen that significantly shadows its application. Herein, a molecule substituted with two fluorine atoms for the construction of low‐dimensional tin perovskite is explored. Tin perovskite film based on this molecule shows much enhanced hydrophobicity, bringing much enhanced stability in atmosphere. The unencapsulated device can be kept over 200 h in atmospheric environment. In comparison to the instantaneous degradation of device performance for traditional 3D solar cells, no obvious degradation of device efficiency is observed under continuous operation in atmosphere without encapsulation over 10 h. Furthermore, the low‐dimensional perovskite film exhibits a unique two‐layer structure that can effectively passivate defects of the tin perovskite film. Accordingly, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of Sn‐perovskite solar cells realizes a remarkable enhancement by a factor of 45% and yields a PCE of 8.38%. This work indicates that molecular design of low‐dimensional structure is a promising approach to improve the stability of tin perovskite.
Combined Forecasting of Ship Heave Motion Based on Induced Ordered Weighted Averaging Operator
Authors: Wang Hailun , Lei Dongge , Wu Fei
Published: September 2022

Heave motion of ships is a complex nonlinear dynamic process and cannot be accurately forecasted using a single prediction model. In this paper, an effective combined forecasting method is proposed to perform ship's heave motion prediction. The proposed method combines back propagation neural network (BPNN), autoregressive model (AR) and extreme learning machine (ELM) through an induced ordered weighted averaging (IOWA) operator. The prediction accuracy is selected as the induced variable and the prediction results are sorted according to prediction accuracy and IOWA operator assigns larger weights to the position with the smallest prediction error. The optimal weights are determined by maximizing the B‐mode relational degree. Experimental results demonstrate its effectiveness of the proposed method. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Study on the Effect of Suspension Windings on the Electromagnetic Vibration and Noise ofUltra‐high‐SpeedBearingless Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor for Air Compressor
Authors: Xiaoyuan Wang , Na Li , Tian Yu , Tianyuan Li
Published: September 2022

The electromagnetic vibration and noise level of ultra‐high‐speed bearingless permanent magnet synchronous motor (UBPMSM) for air compressors used in the fuel‐cell vehicle (FCV) is an important evaluation. A 10 kW, 100 k r/min UBPMSM is adopted as the object of study in this research. The expression of radial electromagnetic force of UBPMSM is derived through theoretical analysis, and the order and frequency characteristics of radial electromagnetic force harmonics are summarized. Through the two‐dimensional (2D) Fourier decomposition of radial electromagnetic force by finite element analysis (FEA), the main sources of radial electromagnetic force causing the electromagnetic vibration and noise are studied. The correctness of the mathematical model is verified by FEA. In addition, the three‐dimensional (3D) finite element model of the motor is established to calculate the radial modal, natural frequency, and electromagnetic vibration and noise of UBPMSM. The research shows that the spatial order of radial electromagnetic force of UBPMSM iskN andkN ± 1 (N = GCD [2p, Z],k = 1, 2, 3, …), and the noise change of UBPMSM caused by the addition of suspension windings could be ignored compared with ordinary motor. It provides reference values for the design and optimization of UBPMSM. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Eosinophilic oesophagitis in Denmark: Population‐based incidence and prevalence in a nationwide study from 2008 to 2018
Authors: Allin Kristine Højgaard , Poulsen Gry , Melgaard Dorte , Frandsen Line Tegtmeier , Jess Tine , Krarup Anne Lund
Published: September 2022

Background

Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune‐mediated or antigen‐mediated oesophageal disease characterised by symptoms related to oesophageal dysfunction and eosinophil‐predominant inflammation.

Objective

We aimed to estimate the incidence and prevalence of EoE in Denmark during the period 2008–2018.

Methods

Based on data from nationwide registers we identified cases of EoE using two definitions: a broad definition based solely on oesophageal biopsies registered in the Danish Pathology Register and a narrow definition also including symptoms of oesophageal dysfunction registered in the Danish National Patient Registry. The annual incidence and prevalence were standardised by sex and age in 5‐year intervals to the 2013 study population.

Results

From 2008 to 2011, the standardised incidence of EoE was stable, but from 2011 to 2018 it increased from 3.9 (95% CI 3.3–4.4) to 11.7 (95% CI 10.8–12.6) per 100,000 person‐years. Similar temporal trends were observed when using the narrow EoE definition. The increase in incidence was most pronounced in men and in individuals above 40 years of age. In children, the EoE incidence was a fourth of the incidence in adults aged 40–64 years: 4.4 (95% CI 3.2–5.6) versus 17.6 (95% CI 15.7–19.5) per 100,000 person‐years. The EoE incidence varied substantially across the five regions in Denmark. Overall, the biopsy rate as well as the proportion of oesophageal biopsies with detected eosinophilia increased during the study period.

Conclusion

This study of the entire population of Denmark during the period 2008 to 2018 shows that the incidence and prevalence of EoE is not yet plateauing and that EoE could be severely underdiagnosed, especially in children.
The Casimir effect in chiral media using path integral techniques
Authors: Canfora Fabrizio , Dudal David , Oosthuyse Thomas , Pais Pablo , Rosa Luigi
Published: September 2022

Abstract

We employ path integral methods to calculate the Casimir energy and force densities in a chiral extension of QED. Manifestly gauge invariant perfect electromagnetic boundary conditions, a natural generalization of perfect electric and perfect magnetic conditions, are implemented directly in the action by the usage of auxiliary fields. The chiral properties of the vacuum are modelled using a background θ field, and we introduce techniques to efficiently calculate the path integral in this chiral medium. The flexibility of our method allows us to naturally obtain results for a variety of configurations, and where comparison is possible our results are in perfect agreement with existing literature. Among these are multiple situations where a repulsive Casimir force is possible.
The P2Y11 receptor of human M2 macrophages activates canonical and IL-1 receptor signaling to translate the extracellular danger signal ATP into anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic responses
Authors: Klaver Dominik , Gander Hubert , Dobler Gabriele , Rahm Andrea , Thurnher Martin
Published: September 2022

The cytoprotective ATP receptor P2Y11is upregulated during M2 macrophage differentiation and contributes to the anti-inflammatory properties of this macrophage subset. Here, we studied P2Y11-induced reprogramming of human M2 macrophages at the level of mRNA and protein expression. Upregulation of IL-1 receptor (IL-1R) and its known downstream effectors VEGF, CCL20 and SOCS3 as well as downregulation of the ATP-degrading ecto-ATPase CD39 emerged as hallmarks of P2Y11activation. The anti-inflammatory signature of the P2Y11transcriptome was further characterized by the downregulation of P2RX7, toll-like receptors and inflammasome components. P2Y11-induced IL-1R upregulation formed the basis for reinforced IL-1 responsiveness of activated M2 macrophages, as IL-1α and IL-1ß each enhanced P2Y11-induced secretion of VEGF and CCL20 as well as the previously reported shedding of soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (sTNFR2). Raising intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) in M2 macrophages through phosphodiesterase 4 inhibition enhanced P2Y11-driven responses. The cAMP-binding effector, exchange protein activated by cAMP 1 (Epac1), which is known to induce SOCS3, differentially regulated the P2Y11/IL-1R response because pharmacological Epac1 inhibition enhanced sTNFR2 and CCL20 release, but had no effect on VEGF secretion. In addition to cAMP, calcium and protein kinase C participated in P2Y11signaling. Our study reveals how P2Y11harnesses canonical and IL-1R signaling to promote an anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic switch of human M2 macrophages, which may be controlled in part by an Epac1-SOCS3 axis.
Efficient computation of states and sensitivities for compound structural optimisation problems using a Linear Dependency Aware Solver (LDAS)
Authors: Koppen Stijn , van der Kolk Max , van den Boom Sanne , Langelaar Matthijs
Published: September 2022

Real-world structural optimisation problems involve multiple loading conditions and design constraints, with responses typically depending on states of discretised governing equations. Generally, one uses gradient-based nested analysis and design approaches to solve these problems. Herein, solving both physical and adjoint problems dominates the overall computational effort. Although not commonly detected, real-world problems can contain linear dependencies between encountered physical and adjoint loads. Manually keeping track of such dependencies becomes tedious as design problems become increasingly involved. This work proposes using a Linear Dependency Aware Solver (LDAS) to detect and exploit such dependencies. The proposed algorithm can efficiently detect linear dependencies between all loads and obtain the exact solution while avoiding unnecessary solves entirely and automatically. Illustrative examples demonstrate the need and benefits of using an LDAS, including a run-time experiment.
Towards harmonization of directly measured free 25-hydroxyvitamin D using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
Authors: Sempos Christopher T. , Lindhout Ernst , Heureux Nicolas , Hars Michel , Parkington Damon A. , Dennison Emily , Durazo-Arvizu Ramón , Jones Kerry S. , Wise Stephen A.
Published: September 2022

The majority of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is protein bound and perhaps less available than the free fraction of 25(OH)D; therefore, researchers have proposed that the measurement of free 25(OH)D in human serum may be a better indicator of vitamin D health status than total 25(OH)D. The availability of a new enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the determination of free 25(OH)D provides a method for direct measurement of the low levels of non-protein bound 25(OH)D. As an initial step towards harmonization of measurements of free 25(OH)D, the ELISA was used to measure free 25(OH)D in three existing Standard Reference Materials (SRMs): SRM 972a Vitamin D Metabolites in Frozen Human Serum, SRM 2973 Vitamin D Metabolites in Frozen Human Serum (High Level), and SRM 1949 Frozen Prenatal Human Serum. Target values for free 25(OH)D in the nine SRM serum pools, obtained by combining the results from two laboratories, ranged from 3.76 ± 0.36 to 10.0 ± 0.58 pg/mL. Of particular significance is the assignment of free 25(OH)D target values to SRM 1949, which consists of four serum pools from non-pregnant female donors of reproductive age and pregnant women in each of the three trimesters and which also has values assigned for vitamin D binding protein, which increases during pregnancy. The availability of target values for free 25(OH)D in these SRMs will allow researchers to validate new analytical methods and to compare their results with other researchers as an initial step towards harmonization of measurements among different studies and laboratories.
Pharmacokinetics of the most commonly used antihypertensive drugs throughout pregnancy methyldopa, labetalol, and nifedipine: a systematic review
Authors: van de Vusse Dylan , Mian Paola , Schoenmakers Sam , Flint Robert B. , Visser Willy , Allegaert Karel , Versmissen Jorie
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Antihypertensive drugs are among the most prescribed drugs during pregnancy. Methyldopa, labetalol, and nifedipine have been perceived safe to use during pregnancy and are therefore recommended in international guidelines for treatment of hypertension. In this review, we provide a complete overview of what is known on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of the antihypertensive drugs methyldopa, labetalol, and nifedipine throughout pregnancy.

Methods

A systematic search was performed to retrieve studies on the PK of methyldopa, labetalol, and nifedipine used throughout pregnancy. The search was restricted to English and original studies. The systematic search was conducted on July 27, 2021, in Embase, Medline Ovid, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Keywords were methyldopa, labetalol, nifedipine, pharmacokinetics, pregnancy, and placenta.

Results

A total of 1459 unique references were identified of which title and abstract were screened. Based on this screening, 67 full-text papers were assessed, to retain 30 PK studies of which 2 described methyldopa, 12 labetalol, and 16 nifedipine. No fetal accumulation is found for any of the antihypertensive drugs studied.

Conclusion

We conclude that despite decades of prescribing methyldopa, labetalol, and nifedipine throughout pregnancy, descriptions of their PK during pregnancy are hampered by a large heterogeneity in the low number of available studies. Aiming for evidence-based and personalized dosing of antihypertensive medication in the future, further studies on the relationship of both PK and pharmacodynamics (including the optimal blood pressure targeting) during pregnancy and pregnancy-related pathology are urgently needed to prevent undertreatment, overtreatment, and side effects.
Improvement of Outcome for Treatment of ‘Restenosis-prone’ Vascular Lesions? Potential Impact of the Paclitaxel dose on Late Lumen Loss in Porcine Peripheral Arteries
Authors: Gemeinhardt Ole , Haase Tobias , Schnorr Beatrix , Xie Jing , Löchel Melanie , Schütt Denise , Mittag Antje , Haider Wolfram , Bettink Stephanie , Speck Ulrich , Tepe Gunnar
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Clinical data indicate that the drug density on drug-coated balloons (DCBs) might have a role on treatment effect and durability. The aim of the current study was to investigate inhibition of neointimal formation and potential adverse effects after treatment with a novel double-dose DCB in swine.

Material and methods

A four-week study was performed in peripheral arteries of 12 domestic pigs after vessel injury and stent implantation. The novel double-dose DCB with 6-µg paclitaxel (Ptx)/mm2 balloon surface (1 × 6) was compared to a standard DCB with 3.5 µg Ptx/mm2 (3.5) and uncoated balloons (POBA). Potential adverse effects were stimulated by using three fully overlapping DCBs with 6 µg Ptx/mm2 each (3 × 6). Quantitative angiography, histomorphometry and histopathological analyses were performed.

Results

Higher paclitaxel doses per square millimeter of treated arteries were associated with reduced late lumen loss (LLL) in quantitative angiography 4 weeks after treatment (POBA: 0.91 ± 0.75 mm; 3.5: 0.45 ± 0.53 mm; 1 × 6: 0.21 ± 0.41 mm; 3 × 6: − 0.38 ± 0.65 mm). In histomorphometry, maximal neointimal thickness and neointimal area were the lowest for the 1 × 6 group (0.15 ± 0.06 mm/1.5 ± 0.4 mm2), followed by 3 × 6 (0.20 ± 0.07 mm/1.8 ± 0.4 mm2), 3.5 (0.22 ± 0.12 mm/2.2 ± 1.1 mm2) and POBA (0.30 ± 0.07 mm/3.2 ± 0.7 mm2). Downstream tissue showed histopathological changes in all groups including POBA, in larger number and different quality (e.g., edema, inflammation, vessel wall necrosis, vasculitis and perivasculitis) in the 3 × 6 group, which did not cause clinical or functional abnormalities throughout the study.

Conclusion

Treatment with the double-dose DCB (6 µg Ptx/mm2) tended to increase inhibition of in-stent neointimal formation and to diminish LLL after peripheral intervention in the porcine model compared to a market-approved DCB with 3.5 µg Ptx/mm2.
Pulsed export of carbon in the north-western Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Denis Michel , Lefevre Dominique , Thyssen Melilotus , Jenkinson Ian R. , Grégori Gérald
Published: September 2022

The short term (hourly scale) variability of heterotrophic prokaryote (HP) vertical distribution and respiratory activity, was investigated in the north-western (NW) Mediterranean Sea. HP vertical distribution was determined on board by flow cytometry analysis of seawater samples collected by series of CTD casts. Cell counts and viability were determined for all samples. HP respiratory rates were determined later in the laboratory from filtered seawater samples (23 dm3) from 300–1 150-m depth. The average cell viability was 94.8%±2.2% (n=240). There was no accumulation of dead cells, due to quick decay of damaged cells. In the epipelagic layer, three HP groups were distinguished, two (HNA1, HNA2) whose cells exhibited a high nucleic acid content and one (LNA) with low nucleic acid content cells. HNA2 was most populated at 50 m but not detected at 90 m and below, presumably aerobic anoxygenic photoheterotrophic bacteria (AAPs). The variability in HP abundance was mainly confined in the upper 80 m. A few secondary peaks of HP abundance were observed (80–150 m) in connection with abundance troughs in the surface layer. HP cells were continuously present in a wide layer around 500 m (mean 191×103 cells/cm3). Below this layer, HP abundance randomly exhibited peaks, coupled to respiratory rate peaks. The HP abundance and variability in the water column was suppressed during a strong wind event. The observed sporadic variability was tentatively interpreted through a pulsed carbon-export mechanism induced by the microorganism production of dissolved polysaccharides, followed by flocculation and rapid sinking. This mechanism would thus contribute to (i) preventing organic matter accumulation in the epipelagic layer, (ii) seeding the water column with live HP cells, and (iii) supplying the aphotic water column with fresh and labile organic matter. This important vertical flux mechanism needs further observations and modelling.
A systematic review of treatment options for post-prostatectomy incontinence
Authors: Canning Alexander , Raison Nicholas , Aydin Abdullatif , Cheikh Youssef Samy , Khan Shamim , Dasgupta Prokar , Ahmed Kamran
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Urinary incontinence remains common in men after prostatectomy. Current guidance suggests early corrective surgery to those that are still incontinent after trying Pelvic Floor Muscle Therapy, however, other treatments are now available. This review aims to evaluate all currently available treatment options for men with post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI).

Methods

A search of MEDLINE and CENTRAL databases on 2/2/2021 produced 879 articles. Any study evaluating incontinence before and after a treatment protocol was eligible for inclusion. After screening, 17 randomized control trials were included, and pre-defined data points were collected. Due to heterogeneity, pooled analysis was not possible, and a descriptive synthesis was produced in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) tool was used to evaluate all studies. The search protocol and methods for this study was registered on the PROSPERO database before the search began, ID:(CRD42021229749).

Results

3/17(18%) of studies focussed on pharmacotherapy, 2/17(12%) on vibration therapies, 8/17(47%) on pelvic floor muscle therapy (PFMT), 3/17(18%) on electrical stimulation (ES), and 1/17 (6%) on extracorporeal magnetic innervation (ExMI) as their main intervention. The use of Duloxetine, Solifenacin, PFMT, ES, and ExMI all show effective reduction in incontinence in men suffering from PPI. No study in this review evaluated surgical managements for PPI.

Conclusion

A large number of treatments are available for PPI using an array of different methods. For this reason, a variety of treatments could be considered before early invasive procedures, to prevent unnecessary surgery and its associated negative complications.
Serum Creatinine/Cystatin C Ratio as a Predictor of In-hospital Mortality in Patients Hospitalized with Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Chen Zhixiang , Zha Lei , Ma Xiao , Xu Jing , Huang Dandan , Wu Wenlong , Chen Long , Yang Feng , Liao Weiling , Wang Wenhua
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Low serum creatinine/cystatin C ratio (CCR) is associated with unfavorable characteristics in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); however, the relationship between CCR and in-hospital mortality of patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) is unexplored. Our objective was to assess the value of CCR for predicting in-hospital mortality of patients hospitalized with AECOPD.

Methods

Patients with AECOPD (n = 597) were retrospectively enrolled. Patient’s clinical characteristics and laboratory tests, including serum cystatin C and creatinine, were reviewed. The prediction value of CCR was evaluated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values. Factors potentially impacting in-hospital mortality were investigated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Mortality rate during hospitalization was 10.05%. CCR was lower in non-surviving vs. survived patients (41.67 vs. 61.52, P < 0.001). AUC value for CCR for in-hospital mortality prediction was 0.79 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.73–0.85]. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, in-hospital mortality was strongly associated with CCR < 52.27 [odds ratio (OR) 6.23, 95% CI (3.00–12.92), P < 0.001], age ≥ 81 years [OR 2.97, 95% CI (1.20–7.37), P = 0.019], oxygenation index < 300 [OR 3.28, 95% CI (1.27–8.44), P = 0.014], CRP > 8 mg/L [OR 1.84, 95% CI (1.15–2.95), P = 0.012], and D-dimer > 500 ng/L [OR 5.19, 95% CI (1.51–17.79), P = 0.009].

Conclusions

CCR was significantly lower, and is a potential prognostic indicator, in patients with AECOPD who died during hospitalization.
Prevalence and clinical presentation of long COVID in children: a systematic review
Authors: Pellegrino Roberta , Chiappini Elena , Licari Amelia , Galli Luisa , Marseglia Gian Luigi
Published: September 2022

A systematic literature review was conducted up to 15th February 2022 to summarize long COVID evidence and to assess prevalence and clinical presentation in children and adolescents. Articles reporting long COVID prevalence and symptoms based on original data in the paediatric population were included. Case series quality was assessed through the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist. For observational studies, adherence to STROBE checklist was evaluated. Twenty-two articles were included: 19 observational studies (12 cohort/7 cross-sectional) and 3 case series. Nine studies provided a control group. We found a high variability in terms of prevalence (1.6–70%). The most frequently reported symptoms were fatigue (2–87%), headache (3.5–80%), arthro-myalgias (5.4–66%), chest tightness or pain (1.4–51%), and dyspnoea (2–57.1%). Five studies reported limitations in daily function due to long COVID. Alterations at brain imaging were described in one study, transient electrocardiographic abnormalities were described in a minority of children, while most authors did not evidence long-term pulmonary sequelae. Older age, female sex, and previous long-term pathological conditions were more frequently associated with persistent symptoms.

Conclusion: Long COVID evidence in children is limited, heterogeneous, and based on low-quality studies. The lockdown consequences are difficult to distinguish from long COVID symptoms. High-quality studies are required: WHO definition of long COVID should be used, controlled clinical studies should be encouraged, and the impact of new variants on long COVID prevalence should be investigated to ensure an objective analysis of long COVID characteristics in children and a proper allocation of healthcare system resources.

What is Known:• Children rarely develop a severe respiratory disease in the acute phase of COVID-19.• A limited number of patients develop a multisystem inflammatory condition that can lead to multiorgan failure and shock.

What is New:• Persistent symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection are reported in children and limitations in daily function due to long COVID symptoms affect school attendance.• Functional complaints of post-acute COVID are difficult to be distinguished from those due to social restrictions.
Packing Disks into Disks with Optimal Worst-Case Density
Authors: Fekete Sándor P. , Keldenich Phillip , Scheffer Christian
Published: September 2022

We provide a tight result for a fundamental problem arising from packing disks into a circular container: The critical density of packing disks in a disk is 0.5. This implies that any set of (not necessarily equal) disks of total area $$\delta \le 1/2$$

δ
≤
1
/
2

can always be packed into a disk of area 1; on the other hand, for any $$\varepsilon >0$$

ε
>
0

there are sets of disks of area $$1/2+\varepsilon $$

1
/
2
+
ε

that cannot be packed. The proof uses a careful manual analysis, complemented by a minor automatic part that is based on interval arithmetic. Beyond the basic mathematical importance, our result is also useful as a blackbox lemma for the analysis of recursive packing algorithms.
Risk Factors for Dysphagia in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Holdiman Anna , Rogus-Pulia Nicole , Pulia Michael S. , Stalter Lily , Thibeault Susan L.
Published: September 2022

Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 may be at risk for dysphagia and vulnerable to associated consequences. We investigated predictors for dysphagia and its severity in a cohort of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 at a single hospital center. A large level I trauma center database was queried for all patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Demographics, medical information associated with COVID-19, specific to dysphagia, and interventions were collected. 947 patients with confirmed COVID-19 met the criteria. 118 (12%) were seen for a swallow evaluation. Individuals referred for evaluation were significantly older, had a lower BMI, more severe COVID-19, and higher rates of intubation, pneumonia, mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy placements, prone positioning, and ARDS. Pneumonia (OR 3.57, p = 0.004), ARDS (OR 3.57, p = 0.029), prone positioning (OR 3.99, p = 0.036), ventilation (OR 4.01, p = 0.006), and intubation (OR 4.75, p = 0.007) were significant risk factors for dysphagia. Older patients were more likely to have more severe dysphagia such that for every 1-year increase in age, the odds of severe dysphagia were 1.04 times greater (OR 1.04, p = 0.028). Patients hospitalized with COVID-19 are at risk for dysphagia. We show predictive variables that should be considered when referring COVID-19 patients for dysphagia services to reduce time to intervention/evaluation.
Land use change and climate dynamics in the Rift Valley Lake Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Ayalew Ayenew D. , Wagner Paul D. , Sahlu Dejene , Fohrer Nicola
Published: September 2022

Land use and climate dynamics have a pronounced impact on water resources, biodiversity, land degradation, and productivity at all scales. Thus, in this study, we present the spatio-temporal dynamics of land use change and climate aiming to provide a scientific evidence about gains and losses in major land use categories and associated drivers and significancy and homogeneity of climate change. To this end, Landsat images and historical climate data have been used to determine the dynamics. In addition, population census data and land use policy have been considered to assess the potential drivers of land use change. The spatio-temporal land use dynamics have been evaluated using transition matrix and dynamics index. Likewise, shifts in the climate data were analyzed using change point analysis and three homogenous climate zones have been identified using principal component analysis. The results show that, from 1989 to 2019, the areal percentage of agricultural land increased by 27.5%, settlement by 0.8%, and barren land 0.4% while the natural vegetation, wetland, water body, and grass land decreased by 24.5%, 1.6%, 0.5%, and 2.1%, respectively. The land use dynamics have been stronger in the first decade of the study period. An abrupt shift of climate has occurred in the 1980s. In the last four decades, rainfall shows a not significant decreasing trend. However, a significant increasing trend has been observed for temperature. Rapid population growth, agricultural expansion policy, and climate variability have been identified as the underlying drivers of land use dynamics.
How Social Capital is Related to Migration Between Communities?
Authors: Lőrincz László , Németh Brigitta
Published: September 2022

In addition to economic and infrastructural factors, social connections of people also influence migration patterns. This influence can be attributed to the resources that are made available by social contacts: social capital, which can also be utilized in the process of migration. Based on previous literature, we identify three different aspects of social capital and test their relationship with domestic migration simultaneously. First, we analyse if the intensity of connections within communities (local social capital) restrains from migration. Second, if the intensity of connections between two communities (bridging social capital) is associated with increased migration between them. Finally, we consider, if the extent to which local community networks exhibit open or closed structures (bonding social capital) contributes to higher or lower migration rates. We create indicators for these measures using archived online social network data, covering 40% of the adult population of Hungary, and combine them with official migration data of 175 subregions. Based on point-to-point gravity and negative binomial models, we find that bridging social capital between subregions is associated with increased migration flows, but we do not find that local social capital restrains from migration.
Quantum gravity and the zero point length
Authors: Nicolini Piero
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we present an overview of some of the existing issues of the research in quantum gravity. We also introduce the basic ideas that led Padmanabhan to consider a duality property in path integrals. Such a duality is consistent with the T-duality in string theory. More importantly, the path integral duality discloses a universal feature of any quantum geometry, namely the existence of a zero point length $$L_0$$

L
0

. We also comment about recent developments aiming to expose effects of the zero point length in strong electrodynamics and black holes. There are reasons to believe that the main characters of the phenomenology of quantum gravity may be described by means of a single parameter like $$L_0$$

L
0

.