bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a novel algorithm for the adaptive calculation of transient stratified flow of gas, oil and water in pipelines
Authors: Hanich L. , Thompson C.
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a mathematical model for three‐phase flow in pipelines is developed and a novel algorithm for solving the resulting system of partial differential equations is presented. The numerical solution is based on an adaptive mesh refinement technique. Significant gains in the numerical performance have been achieved by using this technique combined with high‐resolution schemes like FCT. This approach is highly beneficial in terms of speed while preserving accuracy. An explicit adaptive numerical solver adaptive conservation law solver (ACLS) has been developed in fortran90 using object‐oriented methods, which give a modular and flexible code. Some numerical tests are performed to show the good behaviour of this solver and to compare the numerical results against the experimental data. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remarks on the interpretation of current non‐linear finite element analyses as differential–algebraic equations
Authors: Ellsiepen P. , Hartmann S.
Published: November 2023

For the numerical solution of materially non‐linear problems like in computational plasticity or viscoplasticity the finite element discretization in space is usually coupled with point‐wise defined evolution equations characterizing the material behaviour. The interpretation of such systems as differential–algebraic equations (DAE) allows modern‐day integration algorithms from Numerical Mathematics to be efficiently applied. Especially, the application of diagonally implicit Runge–Kutta methods (DIRK) together with a Multilevel‐Newton method preserves the algorithmic structure of current finite element implementations which are based on the principle of virtual displacements and on backward Euler schemes for the local time integration. Moreover, the notion of the consistent tangent operator becomes more obvious in this context. The quadratical order of convergence of the Multilevel‐Newton algorithm is usually validated by numerical studies. However, an analytical proof of this second order convergence has already been given by authors in the field of non‐linear electrical networks. We show that this proof can be applied in the current context based on the DAE interpretation mentioned above. We finally compare the proposed procedure to several well‐known stress algorithms and show that the inclusion of a step‐size control based on local error estimations merely requires a small extra time‐investment. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On a progressive simultaneous iteration method for vibration analysis of gyroscopic systems
Authors: Gupta K. K. , Lawson C. L.
Published: November 2023

This paper presents details of an eigenproblem solution procedure for the efficient and accurate free vibration analysis of gyroscopic systems such as spinning structures. The procedure enables computation of the first few roots and vectors without having to compute any other. While structural discretization is achieved by the standard finite element method, eigenproblem solution of the resulting equations is effected by a newly developed progressive simultaneous iterative (PSI) method. Numerical solution of relevant example problems re presented which are compared to those obtained by ther existing analysis techniques, testifying to substantial gains in the efficacy of the newly developed solution algorithm. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finite element modelling of hybrid active–passive vibration damping of multilayer piezoelectric sandwich beams—part I: Formulation
Authors: Trindade M. A. , Benjeddou A. , Ohayon R.
Published: November 2023

This work, in two parts, proposes, in this first part, an electromechanically coupled finite element model to handle active–passive damped multilayer sandwich beams, consisting of a viscoelastic core sandwiched between layered piezoelectric faces. The latter are modelled using the classical laminate theory, whereas the face/core/face system is modelled using classical three‐layers sandwich theory, assuming Euler–Bernoulli thin faces and a Timoshenko relatively thick core. The frequency‐dependence of the viscoelastic material is handled through the anelastic displacement fields (ADF) model. To make the control system feasible, a modal reduction is applied to the resulting ADF augmented system. Validation of the approach developed in this part is presented in Part 2 of the paper together with the hybrid damping performance analysis of a cantilever beam. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finite element modelling of hybrid active–passive vibration damping of multilayer piezoelectric sandwich beams—part II: System analysis
Authors: Trindade M. A. , Benjeddou A. , Ohayon R.
Published: November 2023

An electromechanically coupled finite element model has been presented in Part 1 of this paper in order to handle active–passive damped multilayer sandwich beams, consisting of a viscoelastic core sandwiched between layered piezoelectric faces. Its validation is achieved, in the present part, through modal analysis comparisons with numerical and experimental results found in the literature. After its validation, the new finite element is applied to the constrained optimal control of a sandwich cantilever beam with viscoelastic core through a pair of attached piezoelectric actuators. The hybrid damping performance of this five‐layer configuration is studied under viscoelastic layer thickness and actuator length variations. It is shown that hybrid active–passive damping allows to increase damping of some selected modes while preventing instability of uncontrolled ones and that modal damping distribution can be optimized by proper choice of the viscoelastic material thickness. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transient vibration and sound radiation of a rectangular plate with viscoelastic boundary supports
Authors: Fan Zijie
Published: November 2023

This work considers transient vibration and sound radiation from an impact‐excited rectangular plate with viscoelastic boundary supports. The approach used is based on the modal strain energy (MSE) method. Vibration of the plate is approximated by a double infinite series in the spatial co‐ordinates. Each term of the series is constructed with vibration modes of beams having the same boundary conditions as the plate, multiplied by a time‐dependent function. Modal loss factor of each mode is obtained by the MSE method. The sound radiation pressure in the time and frequency domain is obtained by numerical integration of the Rayleigh integral. Effects of the viscoelastic boundary supports on the vibration response and the radiated sound pressure of the vibrating plate are also discussed. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lung volume reduction surgery in lieu of pneumonectomy in an infant with severe unilateral pulmonary interstitial emphysema*
Authors: Messineo Antonio , Fusaro F. , Mognato G. , Sabatti M. , D'Amore E.S.G. , Guglielmi M.
Published: November 2023

A male infant with a prenatal diagnosis (at 20 weeks' gestation) of cystic adenomatoid malformation was delivered after 38 weeks' gestation (birth weight, 3 kg) and admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit. During the first few days of life, he developed mild respiratory distress; a chest radiograph and computed tomography scan showed multiple cystic areas in the left lower lobe with hyperinflation and herniation of the upper lobe across the midline. At 3 weeks of age, a left lower lobectomy was performed for presumed cystic malformation. To our surprize the pathology reports revealed pulmonary interstitial emphysema. The postoperative chest radiograph was unchanged, and mechanical ventilation was necessary and required progressively increasing ventilatory settings to provide adequate support. High‐frequency oscillatory ventilation and selective right bronchus intubation failed to improve lung function.

After 3 weeks, a left thoracotomy was repeated and lung volume reduction was performed with removal of 50' of the peripheral hyperinflated parenchyma. Postoperative recovery was rapid; the child was weaned from the ventilator after 3 days and discharged after 3 weeks. Follow‐up chest X‐rays showed a normally expanded right lung with mediastinal structures back to midline and a small left lung. Favorable results persisted at 3 years of follow‐up.

This first and successful experience with lung volume reduction in a neonate suggests that infants who need removal of a large portion of lung parenchyma to achieve adequate ventilation and gas exchange, lung volume reduction surgery should be considered as an alternative to pneumonectomy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 31:389–393. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Production of low-density and high-strength paperboards by controlled micro-nano fibrillation of fibers
Authors: Ahadian Hamidreza , Ceccherini Sara , Sharifi Zamani Elaheh , Phiri Josphat , Maloney Thaddeus
Published: November 2023

One of the critical challenges in the fiber-based packaging industry is to produce low-density paperboards with high functionality and attractive cost structure. In this study, we examine how control of the hierarchical fiber swelling can be used to enhance bonding and generate a low-density fiber network with excellent strength properties. Here, the osmotic pressure inside the cell wall is increased by adding phosphate groups with a deep eutectic solvent (DES) functional drying method. Together with mechanical refining, this process causes the fibril aggregates to split and swell up massively. This effect was measured by a novel thermoporosimetry analysis method. The treated fibers have enhanced external fibrillation, fibrillar fines and bonding potential. When mixed with relatively stiff, unrefined fibers, a well-bonded sheet with lower density than a conventionally refined reference sheet was achieved. The results suggest that pulp fibers can be “nanoengineered” to enhance performance without the complications of producing and adding nanocellulose.
A Structural Equation Model to Explain Gambling Problem Severity in Adolescents with an Integrated Perspective
Authors: Donati Maria Anna , Vehkalahti Kimmo , Capitanucci Daniela , Primi Caterina
Published: November 2023

To be effective in the prevention of adolescent problem gambling, it is fundamental to enhance knowledge about the antecedents of gambling problem severity and the mechanisms through which these dimensions are related to problematic gambling behavior. This study aimed at testing how selected cognitive (correct knowledge of gambling and gambling-related cognitive distortions) and affective (positive economic perception of gambling and expectation and enjoyment and arousal towards gambling) variables are related to gambling frequency and gambling problem severity. Problem gambling was conceptualized as Gambling Disorder symptoms according to the last edition of the DSM. Participants were 447 Italian high school students (68% males, mean age = 16.8, SD = 0.84). Structural Equation Models (SEMs) conducted with adolescent gamblers attested two indirect effects from knowledge to problem gambling: One through gambling-related cognitive distortions and one through gambling frequency. Overall, results confirmed that adolescent problem gambling is a complex phenomenon explained by multiple and different factors. Practical implications for preventive efforts are discussed.
Breastfeeding and Sleeping Patterns Among 6–12-Month-Old Infants in Norway
Authors: Madar Ahmed A. , Kurniasari Astrid , Marjerrison Niki , Mdala Ibrahimu
Published: November 2023

Background

Parental behavior and infant sleep patterns can vary widely both within and between cultures and settings. Breastfeeding during the second half-year of infancy has been associated with frequent night waking, which is perceived as sleep problem among the Western societies. An understanding of sleeping patterns among breastfed infants during the second half-year of infancy is important in supporting continued breastfeeding.

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate the sleeping patterns among breastfed infants during second half-year of infancy.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. Three hundred and forty-two mothers of 6–12 months old breastfed infants completed the questionnaires on socio-demographic factors, breastfeeding practices, and infant sleeping patterns, which were assessed by using the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire (BISQ). The Cox regression model was used to assess the factors that were associated with night sleep duration whereas demographic factors and breastfeeding practices that were associated with night waking frequency were investigated using the Poisson regression model.

Results

On average, the breastfed infants slept for 11 h during the night and most infants were reported to have night waking (96.8%) and were breastfed at least once at night (93.5%). In the adjusted analyses, infants in the age group 9–12 months were less likely to sleep longer compared to infants in the 6–8 months age group [HR 1.52 95% CI (1.17, 1.98)]. A one-hour increase in daytime sleep and in night wakefulness increased the likelihood of waking up at night by 19% and 24%, respectively. Infants who had been vaccinated within the last 7 days and infants who were breastfed to sleep were more likely to have a shorter nighttime sleep duration. Nighttime breastfeeding frequency was significantly associated with a 17% increase in the likelihood of night waking [IRR 1.17 95% CI (1.13, 1.22)]. Infants who slept on their parents’ bed were 1.28 times more likely to wake up at night compared to infants who slept in a separate room [IRR 1.28 95% CI (1.05, 1.59)]. Infants of parents who reported that their infants’ sleep was not a problem were 34% less likely to wake up compared to infants of parents who reported that their infants’ sleep was a problem [IRR 0.66 95% CI (0.49, 0.87)].

Conclusions for Practice

Frequent night waking, bed sharing and night breastfeeding were common among 6–12 months old breastfed infants. Frequent night breastfeeding may lengthen an infant’s nighttime sleep duration. The study findings indicate that adequate information and support should be given to breastfeeding mothers in relation to the sleeping pattern of breastfed infants in order to promote continued breastfeeding practices.
Death knell or revival? Navigating religious education in the age of the non-religious
Authors: Wareham Ruth J.
Published: November 2023

England and Wales are now amongst the least religious countries in the world. According to Census data between 2011 and 2021, the number of people identifying as having ‘No Religion’ jumped by over 8 million, from 25% to 37%. Further, although there was a small upward shift in those identifying with minority religions, during the same period, the number of people identifying as Christian dropped by 5.5 million to 46.2% of the population. Wales is particularly irreligious. Here, 47% ticked ‘No Religion’ compared to 44% ‘Christian’. But even in Northern Ireland, where the majority still identify with a Christian denomination, the non-religious population has nearly doubled (from 10 to 17%) in the last decade. This surge in the non-religious will (and ought to) affect policy in a wide range of areas, but it is likely to be most profoundly felt in education; be that via reforms designed to better accommodate non-religious learners or attempts to reverse what is seen as a threatening trend by some religious groups and organisations. In this paper I explore the implications of this rapid demographic shift on religious education (RE). I argue that, while some may view the growth of the non-religious as a ‘death knell’ signalling the subject’s impending demise, it actually presents an unparalleled opportunity for revitalisation.
Alkaloid-rich extract of Buchholzia coriacea seed mitigate the effect of copper-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Anadozie Scholastica O. , Aduma Asueiza U. , Adewale Olusola B.
Published: November 2023

Buchholzia coriacea is known for its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties. This study evaluated the effect of alkaloid-rich extract of Buchholzia coriacea seed (ArEBCs) against copper-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster. The flies were exposed to graded doses (25 to 200 mg/kg diet) of ArEBCs for 12 days and thereafter, a survival test was carried out to determine the safe and therapeutic doses used in the ameliorative study. For this, flies were exposed to CuSO4 (1 mM) alone or in combination with ArEBCs (25 and 50 mg/kg diet) for 5 days. Locomotor activity and biochemical assays such as glucose (GLU) level, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, malonaldehyde (MDA) and antioxidant biomarkers (catalase and reduced glutathione) were performed to assess the effect of ArEBCs on the copper-induced flies. Copper-exposed flies showed reduced survival rates and disrupted locomotor activity when compared to the control flies. In addition, a significant (p < 0.05) increase in AChE activity, GLU and MDA levels and a decrease in the antioxidant biomarkers activities were observed in the copper-exposed flies. Treatment of flies with ArEBCs mitigated the negative effect of copper on the flies by increasing the survival rate of the flies, reducing the activities of AChE, GLU and MDA. The activities of the cellular antioxidant status were also significantly (p < 0.05) increased. This study suggests that ArEBCs could mitigate the effect of copper-induced oxidative damage in Drosophila melanogaster and could be considered a potential therapeutic agent against copper-induced oxidative damage.
Bringing sensation to prosthetic hands—chronic assessment of implanted thin-film electrodes in humans
Authors: Čvančara Paul , Valle Giacomo , Müller Matthias , Bartels Inga , Guiho Thomas , Hiairrassary Arthur , Petrini Francesco , Raspopovic Stanisa , Strauss Ivo , Granata Giuseppe , Fernandez Eduardo , Rossini Paolo M. , Barbaro Massimo , Yoshida Ken , Jensen Winnie , Divoux Jean-Louis , Guiraud David , Micera Silvestro , Stieglitz Thomas
Published: November 2023

Direct stimulation of peripheral nerves with implantable electrodes successfully provided sensory feedback to amputees while using hand prostheses. Longevity of the electrodes is key to success, which we have improved for the polyimide-based transverse intrafascicular multichannel electrode (TIME). The TIMEs were implanted in the median and ulnar nerves of three trans-radial amputees for up to six months. We present a comprehensive assessment of the electrical properties of the thin-film metallization as well as material status post explantationem. The TIMEs stayed within the electrochemical safe limits while enabling consistent and precise amplitude modulation. This lead to a reliable performance in terms of eliciting sensation. No signs of corrosion or morphological change to the thin-film metallization of the probes was observed by means of electrochemical and optical analysis. The presented longevity demonstrates that thin-film electrodes are applicable in permanent implant systems.
Cumulative exposure to tacrolimus during early period after liver transplantation does not affect the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kim Deok-Gie , Yim Seung Hyuk , Min Eun-Ki , Choi Mun Chae , Joo Dong Jin , Kim Myoung Soo , Lee Jae Geun
Published: November 2023

The clinical effects of tacrolimus (TAC) exposure on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after liver transplantation (LT) remain unclear. In this retrospective single centric study, 512 patients who underwent LT for HCC were divided into four groups according to cumulative exposure to tacrolimus (CET) during 3 months after LT: conventional (n = 218), aggressive minimization (n = 32), minimization (n = 161), and high exposure (n = 101). Impact of CET on HCC recurrence and death were analyzed. Compared with the conventional group, the other three CET groups showed a similar risk of HCC recurrence. The aggressive minimization group showed a higher risk [hazard ratio (HR) 5.64, P < 0.001] and the high exposure group showed a marginal risk (HR 1.67, P = 0.081) of overall death compared to the conventional group. CET during 3 months was not associated with HCC recurrence in the matched cohort and various subgroups. TAC minimization is not effective to prevent HCC recurrence but could result in higher mortality in LT recipients.
Objective interpretation of ultraviolet-induced luminescence for characterizing pictorial materials
Authors: Caccia M. , Caglio S. , Galli A.
Published: November 2023

Ultraviolet-induced Luminescence (UVL) is the property of some materials of emitting light once illuminated by a source of UV radiation. This feature is characteristic of some mediums and pigments, such as some red lakes, widely used for the realisation of works of art. On the one hand, UVL represents a like strike for a researcher in the cultural heritage field: in fact, UVL allows to characterise the state of conservation of the paintings and, in some cases, to recognize at glance some of the materials used by the artists. On the other hand, the contribution of UVL to the study of the artefacts is almost always limited to qualitative observation, while any speculation about the cause of the luminescence emission relies on the observer’s expertise. The aim of this paper is to overcome this paradigm, moving a step toward a more quantitative interpretation of the luminescence signal. The obtained results concern the case study of pictorial materials by Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo (1868–1907, Volpedo, AL, Italy) including his iconic masterpiece Quarto Stato (1889–1901), but the method has general validity and can be applied whenever the appropriate experimental conditions occur. Once designed an appropriate set-up, the statistical comparison between the acquisitions performed on Quarto Stato, on a palette belonged to the master, on drafts made by the author himself and on a set of ad hoc prepared samples both with commercial contemporary pigments and prepared with the traditional recipe, shed some light on which materials have been employed by the artist, where they have been applied and support some intriguing speculations on the use of the industrial lakes in the Quarto Stato painting.
Global burden and influencing factors of chronic kidney disease due to type 2 diabetes in adults aged 20–59 years, 1990–2019
Authors: Xie Dandan , Ma Tianpeng , Cui Haoliang , Li Jing , Zhang Aihua , Sheng Zhifeng , Xie Yiqiang
Published: November 2023

Population structure and lifestyles may have contributed to the epidemiological status of Chronic Kidney Disease due to Type 2 Diabetes (CKD-T2D). This study is a secondary data analysis. Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study, we describe the changes in CKD-T2D burden and its influencing factors in the population aged 20–59 years from 1990 to 2019. Globally, the incidence, death, and Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) rate of CKD-T2D showed an upward trend and increased with age, and the burden in males was higher than that in females. Population growth and aging were important driving factors for the increase of CKD-T2D DALY burden, while high systolic blood pressure and high body-mass index were the primary attributable risk factors. High body-mass index exhibited higher contributions to high Socioeconomic Development Index (SDI) countries, whereas low SDI countries were more impacted by high systolic blood pressure. The population attributable fraction of CKD-T2D DALY caused by high body-mass index was positively correlated with SDI, while high temperature and lead exposure were negatively correlated. Therefore, strengthening disease screening for people aged 20–59 years and formulating early intervention measures based on the level of socioeconomic development may effectively alleviate the burden of CKD-T2D.
Allelic hierarchy for USH2A influences auditory and visual phenotypes in South Korean patients
Authors: Nam Dong Woo , Song Yong Keun , Kim Jeong Hun , Lee Eun Kyoung , Park Kyu Hyung , Cha JuHyuen , Choi Byung Yoon , Lee Jun Ho , Oh Seung Ha , Jo Dong Hyun , Lee Sang-Yeon
Published: November 2023

When medical genetic syndromes are influenced by allelic hierarchies, mutant alleles have distinct effects on clinical phenotypes. Genotype–phenotype correlations for Usher syndrome type 2 (USH2) suggest that the USH2A gene exhibits an allelic hierarchy. Here, we analyzed the phenotypes and genotypes of 16 South Korean patients with USH2A biallelic variants to investigate an allelic hierarchy from audiological and ophthalmological perspectives. Using whole exome and genome sequencing, 18 mutant alleles, including 4 novel alleles, were identified and implicated in USH2A-related disorders. Truncated alleles were linked to earlier onset of subjective hearing loss and more severe thresholds; biallelic truncated alleles had more severe effects. Truncated alleles were also associated with retinal structure degeneration and severe functional deterioration. However, younger patients (aged < 16 years) did not exhibit overt retinitis pigmentosa even when they had biallelic truncated alleles, suggesting that USH2A-related USH2 can mimic nonsyndromic hearing loss. For truncated alleles, there was a clear correlation between mean hearing threshold and 30-Hz flicker electroretinography implicit time. This study provides the first evidence of an USH2A-related allelic hierarchy among South Korean patients; our data yield valuable insights concerning the natural courses of clinical phenotypes and how genotype-based therapies may be used.
Sparse convolutional neural network for high-resolution skull shape completion and shape super-resolution
Authors: Li Jianning , Gsaxner Christina , Pepe Antonio , Schmalstieg Dieter , Kleesiek Jens , Egger Jan
Published: November 2023

Traditional convolutional neural network (CNN) methods rely on dense tensors, which makes them suboptimal for spatially sparse data. In this paper, we propose a CNN model based on sparse tensors for efficient processing of high-resolution shapes represented as binary voxel occupancy grids. In contrast to a dense CNN that takes the entire voxel grid as input, a sparse CNN processes only on the non-empty voxels, thus reducing the memory and computation overhead caused by the sparse input data. We evaluate our method on two clinically relevant skull reconstruction tasks: (1) given a defective skull, reconstruct the complete skull (i.e., skull shape completion), and (2) given a coarse skull, reconstruct a high-resolution skull with fine geometric details (shape super-resolution). Our method outperforms its dense CNN-based counterparts in the skull reconstruction task quantitatively and qualitatively, while requiring substantially less memory for training and inference. We observed that, on the 3D skull data, the overall memory consumption of the sparse CNN grows approximately linearly during inference with respect to the image resolutions. During training, the memory usage remains clearly below increases in image resolution—an $$\times 8$$

×
8

increase in voxel number leads to less than $$\times 4$$

×
4

increase in memory requirements. Our study demonstrates the effectiveness of using a sparse CNN for skull reconstruction tasks, and our findings can be applied to other spatially sparse problems. We prove this by additional experimental results on other sparse medical datasets, like the aorta and the heart. Project page at https://github.com/Jianningli/SparseCNN.
Simultaneous quantification of lead, cadmium and zinc in superficial marine sediments using a carbon-fiber microelectrode modified with bismuth film
Authors: Fernández Lenys , Espinoza-Montero Patricio , Sánchez-Sarango Mireya , Bolaños-Méndez Diego , Álvarez-Paguay Jocelyne , Domínguez-Granda Luis , Rodríguez Augusto , Romero Hugo , Debut Alexis , Ortiz Vladimir
Published: November 2023

Marine sediments are a useful environmental assessment matrix as they naturally trap toxic substances of anthropogenic origin and thus have higher concentrations of these than the surrounding water. Therefore, developing methods for the sensitive, accurate, and inexpensive quantification of these substances is important, as the traditional techniques have various disadvantages. The current study evaluated the effectiveness of an in situ bismuth-modified carbon-fiber microelectrode (voltamperometric sensor) to simultaneously detect Pb, Cd, and Zn in marine sediments from Puerto Jeli in El Oro Province, Ecuador. This site is representative of the contamination levels present along the coast in this province. Differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry was applied, and the resulting linear regression for the metal quantification ranged from 12 to 50 μg mL−1, with quantification limits for Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) of 18.69, 12.55, and 19.29 μg mL−1, respectively. Thus, the quantification with the sensor was successful. According to the preliminary results, Cd and Pb values exceeded the permissible limits established by Ecuador (Texto Unificado de la Legislación Secundaria del Ministerio del Ambiente) and the US Environmental Protection Agency, respectively.
Health-related quality of life and its influencing factors among people with heart failure in Ethiopia: using the revised Wilson and Cleary model
Authors: Mulugeta Henok , Sinclair Peter M. , Wilson Amanda
Published: November 2023

Heart failure is a challenging public health problem associated with poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Data on the quality of life of people with heart failure are limited in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the HRQoL and its influencing factors in people with heart failure in Ethiopia. A hospital-based, cross-sectional study design was conducted in the cardiac outpatient clinics of two tertiary-level hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were collected from people with heart failure who met the inclusion criteria using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The HRQoL was measured using the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). A multiple linear regression model was fitted to identify factors that influenced HRQoL. All statistical analyses were conducted using STATA version 17 software. A total of 383 people with heart failure participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 55 years. The MLHFQ score was 48.03±19.73, and 54% of participants had poor HRQoL. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that age (β= 0.12, 95% CI 0.11, 0.28), diabetes mellitus comorbidity (β= 4.47, 95% CI 1.41, 7.54), social support score (β= − 1.48, 95% CI − 1.93, − 1.03), and depression score (β = 1.74, 95% CI 1.52, 1.96) were significant factors influencing overall HRQoL (p < 0.05). This study found that people in Ethiopia with heart failure had poor HRQoL, influenced by several factors. The findings can help health professionals identify appropriate interventions to improve the HRQoL of people with heart failure.
Seroprevalence and risk factors for Neospora spp. infection in equine in Egypt
Authors: Alshammari Ayed , Gattan Hattan S. , Marzok Mohamed , Selim Abdelfattah
Published: November 2023

Neospora infections in equine are associated with reproductive disorders and neurological diseases. Nevertheless, Egypt has no epidemiological information on this parasite in equine. This study determined the prevalence of Neospora spp. infection in 325 equines from three Egyptian governorates located at Northern Egypt using cELISA. The prevalence of antibodies against Neospora spp. was 19% (95% CI: 14.09–25.05) in horse, 34.1% (95%CI: 24.92–44.69) in donkey and 26.7% (95% CI: 15.97–41.04) in mule. In comparison to horse, donkey had a considerably higher chance of contracting Neospora spp. infection (OR = 1.80, 95% CI: 0.78–4.13; P = 0.016). The risk was also higher in freely grazing animals (OR = 3.49, 95% CI: 0.95–12.78; P = 0.059). Moreover, yearling animals (12–24 months) (OR = 5.03, 95% CI: 1.51–16.80; P = 0.009) and those with natural breeding (OR = 11.80, 95% CI: 3.24–42.99, P < 0.0001) and a history of early abortion (OR = 7.04, 95% CI: 3.01–16.47; P < 0.0001) also showed a greater risk of seropositivity. The risk of Neospora infection increased significantly in equines contacted with dogs (OR = 5.16, 95% CI: 1.76–15.10; P = 0.003). This the first serological study to determine the seroprevalence of Neospora spp. in equine in Egypt. Further studies are necessary to identify the species of Neospora and to understand the role of above-mentioned risk factors in spreading of infection.
Influenza vaccination and major cardiovascular risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials studies
Authors: Omidi Fatemeh , Zangiabadian Moein , Shahidi Bonjar Amir Hashem , Nasiri Mohammad Javad , Sarmastzadeh Tala
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular events remain a substantial global health concern, necessitating innovative strategies for prevention. This study aims to assess the potential impact of influenza vaccination on major cardiovascular events. A search of the medical English literature was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane CENTRAL up to 1 August 2023. Meta-analysis and stratified analyses were performed to investigate specific outcomes, including myocardial infarction (MI), cardiovascular death, and stroke. Pooled relative risks (RR) along with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to evaluate the associations. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on a total of 9059 patients, with 4529 patients receiving the influenza vaccine and 4530 patients receiving a placebo. Among patients who received the influenza vaccine, a notable reduction in the occurrence of major cardiovascular events was observed, with 517 cases compared to 621 cases in the placebo group (RR 0.70; 95% CI 0.55–0.91). The stratified analysis revealed a decreased risk of MI in vaccinated patients (RR 0.74; 95% CI 0.56–0.97) and a significant reduction in cardiovascular death events (RR 0.67; 95% CI 0.45–0.98). This study provides compelling evidence that influenza vaccination is associated with a decreased risk of major cardiovascular events, particularly myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular death. These findings highlight the potential of influenza vaccination as an adjunctive strategy in cardiovascular disease prevention. Further research and exploration of underlying mechanisms are warranted to elucidate the observed beneficial effects.
Improving nanochemoimmunotherapy efficacy by boosting “eat-me” signaling and downregulating “don't-eat-me” signaling with Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide-based drug delivery
Authors: Pang Guibin , Wei Siqi , Zhao Jian , Wang Fu-Jun
Published: November 2023

Prophagocytic mixed nanodrugs are developed to enhance macrophage phagocytosis by encapsulating ICD inducer doxorubicin and CD47 inhibitor gefitinib with immunostimulatory polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum.
Elasticity-integrated pricing and allocation heuristic for airline revenue management
Authors: Jayaram Aparna , Amit R. K. , Agarwal Amit , Luo Xiaodong
Published: November 2023

Setting the right fares is a key lever for increasing operating profitability in the airline industry. It is crucial to design fares that are both appealing to passengers and contribute to an increase in airline revenue. Although airline revenue management techniques have evolved to capture customer-choice behavior, the pricing and allocation decisions continue to be taken independently. However, since they are linked, a single optimization model can address this shortcoming. This paper presents a joint optimization model (JOM) that considers product prices and their allocation quantities as decision variables. A sequential optimization technique that divides the model into two decision problems is adopted to cope with JOM’s complexity. The problem is divided into a master problem and a sub-problem, wherein product price changes are made in the master problem and, with these fixed prices, optimization is performed in the sub-problem. The sub-problem is solved by simplifying the non-linear JOM into a linear programming problem. The direction of product price changes in the master problem is identified using price elasticity of demand. A heuristic based on this concept is proposed and tested. The Elasticity-integrated Pricing and Allocation Heuristic (EPAH) is observed to produce a consistent increase in existing revenues.
Australian Longhorn Beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) Volume 3
Authors: Slipinski Adam , de Keyzer Roger , Jin Mengjie
Published: November 2023

Longhorn beetles — Cerambycidae — are one of the most easily recognised groups of beetles, a cosmopolitan family that encompasses more than 33,000 species in 5,200 genera worldwide. Out of the 117 beetle families occurring in Australia, Cerambycidae is the sixth largest, comprising more than 1,400 species classified in 300 genera.

Virtually all Cerambycidae feed on living or dead plant tissue and play a significant role in all terrestrial environments. Larvae often utilise damaged or dead trees for their development, and through feeding on rotten wood, form an important element of the saproxylic fauna, speeding nutrient and energy circulation in these habitats. Longhorn beetles can cause serious damage by sometimes feeding on and eventually killing living forest or orchard trees. Many species are listed as quarantine pests because of their destructive role to the timber industry, such as the European house borer introduced into Western Australia.

This third volume in the series on Australian longhorn beetles extends to include the taxonomy of genera and species of the subfamily Prioninae of the Australo-Pacific Region. Seven tribes, 50 genera and 166 species are included. All genera and most species are diagnosed, described, illustrated and included in keys to their identification.
GCparagon: evaluating and correcting GC biases in cell-free DNA at the fragment level
Authors: Spiegl Benjamin , Kapidzic Faruk , Röner Sebastian , Kircher Martin , Speicher Michael R
Published: November 2023

Analyses of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) are increasingly being employed for various diagnostic and research applications. Many technologies aim to increase resolution, e.g. for detecting early-stage cancer or minimal residual disease. However, these efforts may be confounded by inherent base composition biases of cfDNA, specifically the over - and underrepresentation of guanine (G) and cytosine (C) sequences. Currently, there is no universally applicable tool to correct these effects on sequencing read-level data. Here, we present GCparagon, a two-stage algorithm for computing and correcting GC biases in cfDNA samples. In the initial step, length and GC base count parameters are determined. Here, our algorithm minimizes the inclusion of known problematic genomic regions, such as low-mappability regions, in its calculations. In the second step, GCparagon computes weights counterbalancing the distortion of cfDNA attributes (correction matrix). These fragment weights are added to a binary alignment map (BAM) file as alignment tags for individual reads. The GC correction matrix or the tagged BAM file can be used for downstream analyses. Parallel computing allows for a GC bias estimation below 1 min. We demonstrate that GCparagon vastly improves the analysis of regulatory regions, which frequently show specific GC composition patterns and will contribute to standardized cfDNA applications.
Four new species of dragonfish genus Eustomias (Stomiiformes: Stomiidae: Melanostomiinae) from the western tropical Atlantic, with remarks on Eustomias minimus Clarke, 1999
Authors: Villarins Bárbara T , Fischer Luciano G , Prokofiev Artem M , Mincarone Michael M
Published: November 2023

Four new species of the scaleless black dragonfish genus Eustomias are described based on specimens collected during the ABRACOS (Acoustics along the BRAzilian COaSt) expeditions along the Fernando de Noronha Ridge, off northeastern Brazil, western tropical Atlantic. Eustomias (Haploclonus) antea sp. nov. differs from its congeners by having a long chin barbel without appendages, ending in a very small terminal bulb without terminal filaments. Eustomias (Haploclonus) lucenae sp. nov. has the lowest count of photophores in the lateral series (56) and a simple, short barbel, ending in a small and asymmetrical terminal bulb. Eustomias (Nominostomias) ophioglossa sp. nov. differs from its congeners by the long chin barbel with two terminal bulbs and long terminal filament with bifurcated axis along its length and with bulblets of different sizes and arrangements inside. Eustomias (Nominostomias) bertrandi sp. nov. can be distinguished by the long chin barbel with two terminal bulbs, the distal bulb more than twice as long as the proximal one, and a short terminal filament. Morphological description of a specimen identified as Eustomias (Dinematochirus) cf. minimus is provided, and an overview of the species of Eustomias reported in Brazilian waters is presented and discussed.
Facile Filtration-Based Workflow for Facilitating Sensitive Detection of Pathogenic Bacteria from Blood
Authors: Park Dong Jin , Chen Liben , Wu Tianqi , Lee Pei-Wei , Hsieh Kuangwen , Wang Tza-Huei
Published: November 2023

Bloodstream infections (BSIs) are a global health concern, contributing to high mortality rates and increased healthcare costs. Current diagnostic methods, such as blood culture, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), immunoassays, and nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), have lengthy workflow bottlenecked by the need of culture based method This study introduces an innovative blood processing method that overcomes this limitation, enabling rapid and culture-free isolation of pathogenic bacteria from whole blood. The method combines osmolysis, blood separation membrane filtration, detergent and enzymatic lysis, and bacterial capture, requiring minimal specialized equipment. Notably, it uses a small blood sample volume (0.5 mL or below), making it suitable for pediatric patients. The workflow involves four simple steps and can be completed in approximately 30 minutes, providing rapid pathogen isolation. The protocol was successfully tested with two most common causative bacteria, S. aureus and E. coli, achieving sensitive detection down to approximately 10 CFU using benchtop PCR. The culture-free approach accelerates the diagnosis process and minimizes the risk of bacterial population alterations during culturing. While further optimization and testing with a broader range of pathogens are needed, this method holds promise in advancing the diagnosis of life-threatening bacterial infections. Future applications may include rapid point-of-care testing in resource-limited settings.
Development of a prediction model for 30-day COVID-19 hospitalization and death in a national cohort of Veterans Health Administration patients – March 2022 - April 2023
Authors: Bui David P. , Bajema Kristina L. , Huang Yuan , Yan Lei , Li Yuli , Nallakkandi Rajeevan , Berry Kristin , Rowneki Mazhgan , Argraves Stephanie , Hynes Denise , Huang Grant , Aslan Mihaela , Ioannou George N.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Develop models to predict 30-day COVID-19 hospitalization and death in the Omicron era for clinical and research applications.

Material and Methods

We used comprehensive electronic health records from a national cohort of patients in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 between March 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023. Full models incorporated 84 predictors, including demographics, comorbidities, and receipt of COVID-19 vaccinations and anti-SARS-CoV-2 treatments. Parsimonious models included 19 predictors. We created models for 30-day hospitalization or death, 30-day hospitalization, and 30-day all-cause mortality. We used the Super Learner ensemble machine learning algorithm to fit prediction models. Model performance was assessed with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), Brier scores, and calibration intercepts and slopes in a 20% holdout dataset.

Results

Models were trained and tested on 198,174 patients, of whom 8% were hospitalized or died within 30 days of testing positive. AUCs for the full models ranged from 0.80 (hospitalization) to 0.91 (death). Brier scores were close to 0, with the lowest error in the mortality model (Brier score: 0.01). All three models were well calibrated with calibration intercepts <0.23 and slopes <1.05. Parsimonious models performed comparably to full models.

Discussion

These models may be used for risk stratification to inform COVID-19 treatment and to identify high-risk patients for inclusion in clinical trials.

Conclusions

We developed prediction models that accurately estimate COVID-19 hospitalization and mortality risk following emergence of the Omicron variant and in the setting of COVID-19 vaccinations and antiviral treatments.
Microbiological and Clinical Characteristics of HypervirulentKlebsiella pneumoniaeisolated from Patients in Tertiary Centers
Authors: Khairuddin Aimi , Nik Zuraina Nik Mohd Noor , Mohamad Nasir Nur Syafiqah , Chuan Chua Wei , Abdul Halim Hamimi Salihah , Yusof Wardah , Husin Azura , Yean Chan Yean , Hassan Siti Asma’
Published: November 2023

HypervirulentKlebsiella pneumoniae(hvKp) has emerged as a significant pathogen capable of causing severe community-acquired infections in otherwise healthy people. This cross-sectional, retrospective study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hvKp, its virulence-associated genes, and the clinical manifestations of hvKp infections. HvKp was defined in this study asK. pneumoniaewith a positive string test and harbouring the serotype K1 or K2 gene. A total of 180 isolates from various clinical specimens were collected from June 2020 to June 2021 in four main hospitals in Kelantan. All isolates were examined for hypermucoviscous phenotype by string test, while the presence of capsular serotype and other virulence genes (rmpA, rmpA2, iucA, magA, peg-344) was done by PCR. Patients’ clinical data was collected and analyzed. String test positive isolates (23.8%, n = 43) were identified as hypermucoviscousK. pneumoniae(hmKp). Capsular serotypes K1 and K2 were detected in 11.1% (n = 20) and 6.1% (n = 11), respectively. The prevalence of hvKp was found to be 9.4% (n = 17). All the hvKp isolates were positive forrmpA, rmpA2, iucA,andpeg-344genes, while all ten hvKp-K1 serotypes were positive formagA, the K1serotype-specific gene. The associations of all the corresponding virulence genes with both serotypes K1 and K2 were statistically significant (p<0.05). HvKp infections were more prevalent in men and individuals with hypertension. Pneumonia was the leading clinical diagnosis in hvKp infected patients, with the mortality rate was 12%. The presence of all biomarkers (rmpA, rmpA2, magA(for K1 serotype),iucA,andpeg-344in hmKp, in combination with clinical manifestations, might be reliable for hvKp diagnosis and epidemiological surveillance.