bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communicating the diagnosis of Klinefelter syndrome to children and adolescents: when, how, and who?
Authors: Aliberti L. , Gagliardi I. , Bigoni S. , Lupo S. , Caracciolo S. , Ferlini A. , Isidori A. M. , Zatelli M. C. , Ambrosio M. R.
Published: March 2022

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is the most frequent sex chromosome aneuploidy in males. KS diagnosis disclosure has an important impact on diagnosis acceptance and the increase in prenatal diagnostic procedures raises questions regarding communication to children/adolescents. Limited data are currently available on this issue. The aim of the study was to investigate aspects like the best timing (when), topics (how), and healthcare professional (who), which, in the opinion of both KS patients and parents, may be considered the best for diagnosis communication to KS children/adolescents. We also analyzed how participants received the communication in real life and evaluated the differences between the responses given by parents who receive KS diagnosis before or after KS patient birth regarding disclosure of KS communication. KS adult patients, KS mothers, and KS fathers, not belonging to the same family, completed a questionnaire containing quantitative measures (5 points Likert scale), open-ended questions, and multiple choice questions. Parental responses were divided according to the timing at which the communication occurred: prenatal age diagnosis (PRE-D) or postnatal age diagnosis (POST-D). A total of 41 KS adults and 77 KS parents (53 PRE-D, 24 POST-D) were recruited. Most KS patients and most POST-D parents consider that communication should be provided before 14 years of age; most PRE-D parents consider 14–18 years of age the best period for communication. We suggest that communication should occur preferably before 18 years of age by a multidisciplinary team (endocrinologists, psychologists, geneticists, and parents) and that the information should deal not only fertility and hormonal aspects but also metabolic and cognitive features.
Efficiency and Stability in a Process of Teams Formation
Authors: Boncinelli Leonardo , Muscillo Alessio , Pin Paolo
Published: March 2022

Motivated by data on co-authorships in scientific publications, we analyze a team formation process that generalizes matching models and network formation models, allowing for overlapping teams of heterogeneous size. We apply different notions of stability: myopic team-wise stability, which extends to our setup the concept of pair-wise stability, coalitional stability, where agents are perfectly rational and able to coordinate, and stochastic stability, where agents are myopic and errors occur with vanishing probability. We find that, in many cases, coalitional stability in no way refines myopic team-wise stability, while stochastically stable states are feasible states that maximize the overall number of activities performed by teams.
Running-Related Biomechanical Risk Factors for Overuse Injuries in Distance Runners: A Systematic Review Considering Injury Specificity and the Potentials for Future Research
Authors: Willwacher Steffen , Kurz Markus , Robbin Johanna , Thelen Matthias , Hamill Joseph , Kelly Luke , Mai Patrick
Published: March 2022

Background

Running overuse injuries (ROIs) occur within a complex, partly injury-specific interplay between training loads and extrinsic and intrinsic risk factors. Biomechanical risk factors (BRFs) are related to the individual running style. While BRFs have been reviewed regarding general ROI risk, no systematic review has addressed BRFs for specific ROIs using a standardized methodology.

Objective

To identify and evaluate the evidence for the most relevant BRFs for ROIs determined during running and to suggest future research directions.

Design

Systematic review considering prospective and retrospective studies. (PROSPERO_ID: 236,832).

Data Sources

PubMed. Connected Papers. The search was performed in February 2021.

Eligibility Criteria

English language. Studies on participants whose primary sport is running addressing the risk for the seven most common ROIs and at least one kinematic, kinetic (including pressure measurements), or electromyographic BRF. A BRF needed to be identified in at least one prospective or two independent retrospective studies. BRFs needed to be determined during running.

Results

Sixty-six articles fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Levels of evidence for specific ROIs ranged from conflicting to moderate evidence. Running populations and methods applied varied considerably between studies. While some BRFs appeared for several ROIs, most BRFs were specific for a particular ROI. Most BRFs derived from lower-extremity joint kinematics and kinetics were located in the frontal and transverse planes of motion. Further, plantar pressure, vertical ground reaction force loading rate and free moment-related parameters were identified as kinetic BRFs.

Conclusion

This study offers a comprehensive overview of BRFs for the most common ROIs, which might serve as a starting point to develop ROI-specific risk profiles of individual runners. We identified limited evidence for most ROI-specific risk factors, highlighting the need for performing further high-quality studies in the future. However, consensus on data collection standards (including the quantification of workload and stress tolerance variables and the reporting of injuries) is warranted.
A numerical investigation of hydraulic fracturing on coal seam permeability based on PFC-COMSOL coupling method
Authors: Wang Kai , Zhang Guodong , Wang Yanhai , Zhang Xiang , Li Kangnan , Guo Wei , Du Feng
Published: March 2022

Hydraulic fracturing and permeability enhancement are effective methods to improve low-permeability coal seams. However, few studies focused on methods to increase permeability, and there are no suitable prediction methods for engineering applications. In this work, PFC2D software was used to simulate coal seam hydraulic fracturing. The results were used in a coupled mathematical model of the interaction between coal seam deformation and gas flow. The results show that the displacement and velocity of particles increase in the direction of minimum principal stress, and the cracks propagate in the direction of maximum principal stress. The gas pressure drop rate and permeability increase rate of the fracture model are higher than that of the non-fracture model. Both parameters decrease rapidly with an increase in the drainage time and approach 0. The longer the hydraulic fracturing time, the more complex the fracture network is, and the faster the gas pressure drops. However, the impact of fracturing on the gas drainage effect declines over time. As the fracturing time increases, the difference between the horizontal and vertical permeability increases. However, this difference decreases as the gas drainage time increases. The higher the initial void pressure, the faster the gas pressure drops, and the greater the permeability increase is. However, the influence of the initial void pressure on the permeability declines over time. The research results provide guidance for predicting the anti-reflection effect of hydraulic fracturing in underground coal mines.
Clinical Oncogenomics and Personalized Medicine in Colorectal Cancer for the Surgeon: What We Need to Know and What the Future Holds
Authors: Reynolds I. S. , O’Connell E. , McNamara D. A. , Prehn J. H. M. , Furney S. J. , Burke J. P.
Published: March 2022

Changes in the normal nucleotide sequence of the human genome plays an integral part in the development and progression of all cancers. It is now recognized that certain genomic alterations can be used to determine prognosis and potential response to treatment for patients diagnosed with a range of cancers. Breast cancer is perhaps the best example of how gene expression analysis can influence treatment choices and potentially prevent patients from receiving adjuvant chemotherapy that would have a negligible benefit. It is becoming increasingly likely that most, if not all, tumors will be subjected to some form of genomic analysis in the future in an attempt to provide patients with a personalized treatment plan that maximizes efficacy and reduces toxicity. This paper gives a brief history of genomic sequencing followed by a description of clinically relevant oncogenomics for those working in the colorectal cancer field. The relevance of RAS, BRAF, mismatch repair, and microsatellite instability status are discussed in detail. Potential implications of PIK3CA mutations are briefly described. It finishes by providing a summary of more complex techniques such as whole exome and whole genome sequencing, some of which may be used in the clinical setting and some of which will be reserved solely for novel target and biomarker identification in the academic setting. An understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the development and progression of colorectal cancer is necessary and will become more relevant as the practice of personalized medicine is more widely implemented.
Evaluating the Effects of Low Carbohydrate and High Protein Diet on Erectile Function in Rats
Authors: Kataoka Tomoya , Hidaka Junya , Suzuki Jun , Mori Taiki , Nakamura Daigaku , Hotta Yuji , Sanagawa Akimasa , Maeda Yasuhiro , Furukawa-Hibi Yoko , Kimura Kazunori
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Carbohydrate restriction in diet is becoming a popular means of losing weight nowadays, although it has been reported that excessive intake of low-carbohydrate and high-protein (LCHP) diet causes an adverse effect on cardiovascular function.

Aim

To investigate the influence of LCHP on erectile function in rats.

Methods

A total of 48, 12-week-old rats were divided into 2 groups and either fed a LCHP diet (LCHP group) or a normal diet (Control group). Hematological examination, blood pressure evaluation, erectile function assessments as well as evaluations of the relaxation and contractile responses of corpus cavernosum were carried out in these rats by using standardized methods. Statistical analysis using 2-way ANOVA and Welch's t-test was conducted to examine the obtained data.

Main Outcome Measure

At the end of the study period, the evaluated outcomes to assess erectile function were intracavernosal pressure , mean arterial pressure , endothelial functions, nitric oxide (NO)-operated nerve functions and the expressions of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1P1).

Results

The intracavernosal pressure / mean arterial pressure ratio was significantly lower in the LCHP group (P < .05) at 4 weeks. Compared to the Control group, the LCHP group exhibited significantly lower responses to ACh and EFS and a decreased nNOS mRNA expression. The results based on this animal model indicate that extreme carbohydrate restricted diet may affect erectile function. Our study identified that LCHP decreased erectile function in rats. A major limitation of this study is, due to the extreme condition of completely replacing carbohydrates with protein, that carbohydrate intake will be gradually increased in the future.

Conclusion

Extreme carbohydrate restriction and high protein in diet may cause ED with vascular endothelial dysfunction and a decrease in the relaxation response of the corpus cavernosum smooth muscle via NO-operated nerves.
Understanding DNA Ancestry
Authors: Krimsky Sheldon
Published: March 2022

DNA ancestry companies generate revenues in the region of $1bn a year, and the company 23andMe is said to have sold 10 million DNA ancestry kits to date. Although evidently popular, the science behind how DNA ancestry tests work is mystifying and difficult for the general public to interpret and understand. In this accessible and engaging book, Sheldon Krimsky, a leading researcher, investigates the methods that different companies use for DNA ancestry testing. He also discusses what the tests are used for, from their application in criminal investigations to discovering missing relatives. With a lack of transparency from companies in sharing their data, absent validation of methods by independent scientists, and currently no agreed-upon standards of accuracy, this book also examines the ethical issues behind genetic genealogy testing, including concerns surrounding data privacy and security. It demystifies the art and science of DNA ancestry testing for the general reader.
The Prediction of Storm‐Time Thermospheric Mass Density by LSTM‐Based Ensemble Learning
Authors: Wang Peian , Chen Zhou , Deng Xiaohua , Wang Jingsong , Tang Rongxing , Li Haimeng , Hong Sheng , Wu Zhiping
Published: March 2022

The accurate prediction of storm‐time thermospheric mass density is always critically important and also a challenge. In this paper, an available prediction model is established by Long Short‐Term Memory (LSTM)‐based ensemble learning algorithms. However, the generalization ability of the deep learning model is often suspicious since training data and testing data are from the same data set in the conventional method. Therefore, in order to objectively validate the performance and generalization of the model, we utilize the GOCE data for training and the SWARM‐C data for testing to verify its performance mainly during the geomagnetic storm period. The results show that the LSTM‐based ensemble learning model (LELM) is robust under different geomagnetic activity levels and has good generalization ability for the different satellite data set. The prediction accuracy of the LELM is proved to be better than a common‐used empirical model (NRLMSISE‐00). Thus, our approach provides a promising way to give reliable and stable predictions of thermospheric mass density.
Effects of COVID-19-related stress and fear on depression in schizophrenia patients and the general population
Authors: Lee Yu-Ri , Chung Young-Chul , Kim Jung Jin , Kang Shi Hyun , Lee Bong Ju , Lee Seung-Hwan , Lee Jonghun , Jung Ha-Ran , Hyun Jinhee , Jhon Min , Kim Ju-Wan , Ryu Seunghyong , Lee Ju-Yeon , Kim Jae-Min , Kim Sung-Wan
Published: March 2022

This study compared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related stress, fear of infection, loneliness, and depression between patients with schizophrenia and the general population. A face-to-face survey was administered to 1340 patients with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder and online survey of the general population (n = 2000) was conducted. The information gathered included the level of COVID-19-related stress, fear of infection, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 score, and the three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale score. Structural equation modeling revealed a significant effect of fear of COVID-19 infection on depression among the general population and on loneliness among patients with schizophrenia. Loneliness experienced during COVID-19 exacerbated depression in both groups. In the COVID-19-related stress–loneliness–depression pathway, the partial mediating effect of loneliness was significant in both groups. Conversely, in the COVID-19-related fear–loneliness–depression pathway, the full mediating effect of loneliness was only significant in patients with schizophrenia. In conclusion, the loneliness associated with COVID-19-related stress and fear of infection was an important factor influencing depression, and the impact was greater in patients with schizophrenia compared with the general population. Thus, different mental health intervention plans are needed for patients with schizophrenia during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the long-lasting COVID-19 pandemic, social support and provision of mental health services to prevent loneliness and consequent depression are required in patients with schizophrenia.
Remote cognitive assessment in severe mental illness: a scoping review
Authors: Lavigne Katie M. , Sauvé Geneviève , Raucher-Chéné Delphine , Guimond Synthia , Lecomte Tania , Bowie Christopher R. , Menon Mahesh , Lal Shalini , Woodward Todd S. , Bodnar Michael D. , Lepage Martin
Published: March 2022

Many individuals living with severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia, present cognitive deficits and reasoning biases negatively impacting clinical and functional trajectories. Remote cognitive assessment presents many opportunities for advancing research and treatment but has yet to be widely used in psychiatric populations. We conducted a scoping review of remote cognitive assessment in severe mental illness to provide an overview of available measures and guide best practices. Overall, 34 studies (n = 20,813 clinical participants) were reviewed and remote measures, psychometrics, facilitators, barriers, and future directions were synthesized using a logic model. We identified 82 measures assessing cognition in severe mental illness across 11 cognitive domains and four device platforms. Remote measures were generally comparable to traditional versions, though psychometric properties were infrequently reported. Facilitators included standardized procedures and wider recruitment, whereas barriers included imprecise measure adaptations, technology inaccessibility, low patient engagement, and poor digital literacy. Our review identified several remote cognitive measures in psychiatry across all cognitive domains. However, there is a need for more rigorous validation of these measures and consideration of potentially influential factors, such as sex and gender. We provide recommendations for conducting remote cognitive assessment in psychiatry and fostering high-quality research using digital technologies.
Review of low‐loss wireless power transfer methods for autonomous underwater vehicles
Authors: Zhang Ben , Xu Wanli , Lu Changbo , Lu Yong , Wang Xudong
Published: March 2022

Comprehensive research on the wireless power transfer technology of autonomous underwater vehicles is necessary to address the issue of significant energy loss in such vehicles during wireless power transfer. Previous analysis on factors that affect wireless power transfer in seawater environment demonstrated that the eddy current loss generated during transmission and offset of the coupling mechanism are the main factors that degrade the efficiency. In this study, existing literature on wireless power transfer for autonomous underwater vehicles in recent years is reviewed, and it is concluded that the energy loss during underwater wireless power transfer can be effectively reduced through coupling mechanism optimization, adaptive control, and docking device design. This study analyses the challenges of low‐loss wireless power transfer for autonomous underwater vehicles and the prospects for future development trends and research areas, providing a reference for realizing efficient and flexible energy supply for autonomous underwater vehicles.
Do radio active galactic nuclei reflect X-ray binary spectral states?
Authors: Moravec Emily , Svoboda Jiří , Borkar Abhijeet , Boorman Peter , Kynoch Daniel , Panessa Francesca , Mingo Beatriz , Guainazzi Matteo
Published: March 2022

Context.Over recent years there has been mounting evidence that accreting supermassive black holes in active galactic nuclei (AGNs) and stellar mass black holes have similar observational signatures: thermal emission from the accretion disk, X-ray coronas, and relativistic jets. Further, there have been investigations into whether or not AGNs have spectral states similar to those of X-ray binaries (XRBs) and what parallels can be drawn between the two using a hardness-intensity diagram (HID).

Aims.To address whether AGN jets might be related to accretion states as in XRBs, we explore whether populations of radio AGNs classified according to their (a) radio jet morphology, Fanaroff-Riley classes I and II (FR I and II), (b) excitation class, high- and low-excitation radio galaxies (HERG and LERG), and (c) radio jet linear extent, compact to giant, occupy different and distinct regions of the AGN HID (total luminosity vs. hardness).

Methods.We do this by cross-correlating 15 catalogs of radio galaxies with the desired characteristics from the literature withXMM-NewtonandSwiftX-ray and ultraviolet (UV) source catalogs. We calculate the luminosity and hardness from the X-ray and UV photometry, place the sources on the AGN HID, and search for separation of populations and analogies with the XRB spectral state HID.

Results.We find that (a) FR Is and IIs, (b) HERGs and LERGs, and (c) FR I-LERGs and FR II-HERGs occupy distinct areas of the HID at a statistically significant level (p-value < 0.05), and we find no clear evidence for population distinction between the different radio jet linear extents. The separation between FR I-LERG and FR II-HERG populations is the strongest in this work.

Conclusions.Our results indicate that radio-loud AGNs occupy distinct areas of the HID depending on the morphology and excitation class, showing strong similarities to XRBs.
Nitrogen-fxing plants.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter discusses nitrogen-fixing plants and their role in symbiosis with bacteria. The chapter emphasizes legumes as the plant family best able to host symbiotic bacteria, and it is the conversion of fixed nitrogen into protein in the seed that makes them an important food source.
Bacteria and other microorganisms.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter discusses bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms which are present in soil. These organisms keep soil alive with a variety of activities, maintaining the balance of life on Earth by fixing nitrogen, breaking down organic matter and preparing it for plant uptake. Their role in symbiosis with plants, recycling of nutrients in soil, etc. are discussed in detail.
The role of fungi.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter focuses on the role of fungi. Fungi are a vital part of the mixture of microorganisms found in healthy soil. Fungal associations between plant roots and beneficial fungi are known as mycorrhizae (meaning 'fungus' and 'root'), and form a beneficial or symbiotic relationship with plants growing in the soil. Mycorrhizal fungi also facilitate plant interactions with other soil microbes. These include pathogens, and bacteria that produce vitamins and protect against attack. The most common of the mycorrhizae are divided into the following: (1) ectomycorrhizae; (2) endomycorrhizae; (3) arbuscular mycorrhizae; (4) ericoid mycorrhizae; and (5) orchid mycorrhiza. The role of saprophytes, pathogens and actinomycetes are also discussed.
Hedges and trees.
Authors: Pinhey Sally , Tebbs Margaret
Published: March 2022

This chapter discusses hedges and trees. The benefits of hedges, its importance as habitat for wildlife, and examples of species suitable for hedges are discussed in detail in this chapter.
Identifying health-system pharmacy operational process categories and corresponding tasks across a diverse health system using a modified Delphi process
Authors: Zeeman Jacqueline M , Petersen Autumn E , Colmenares Evan W , Schenkat Daniel H , Vest Mary-Haston
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify and build consensus on operational tasks that occur within a health-system pharmacy.

Methods

An expert panel of 8 individuals was invited to participate in a 3-round modified Delphi process. In the first round, the expert panel independently reviewed an initial list and provided feedback. All feedback was incorporated into the second round and then reviewed and discussed as a group. The expert panel reviewed an updated list based on feedback from the second round and reached consensus on a final list of operational processes and corresponding tasks.

Results

All 8 participants agreed to serve on the Delphi expert panel and reviewed an initial list of 9 process categories (hazardous intravenous [IV] medications, nonhazardous IV medications, hazardous oral medications, nonhazardous oral medications, controlled substances, total parenteral nutrition [TPN]/fluid preparations, distribution and delivery, clinical tasks, and miscellaneous operational tasks) and 44 corresponding tasks. Through the Delphi process, 72 new tasks were identified in the first round, while 34 new tasks were identified in the second round. In the third and final round, the expert panel reviewed the updated list of 9 process categories and 150 corresponding tasks, made additional edits, and reached consensus on a final list of 9 processes and 138 corresponding tasks that represented operational work within a health-system pharmacy.

Conclusion

The modified Delphi process effectively identified operational processes and corresponding tasks occurring within hospital pharmacies in a diverse health system. This process facilitated consensus building, and the findings may inform development of an operational workload model.
SomaticSiMu: a mutational signature simulator
Authors: Chen David , Randhawa Gurjit S , Soltysiak Maximillian P M , de Souza Camila P E , Kari Lila , Singh Shiva M , Hill Kathleen A
Published: March 2022

SomaticSiMu is an in silico simulator of single and double base substitutions, and single base insertions and deletions in an input genomic sequence to mimic mutational signatures. SomaticSiMu outputs simulated DNA sequences and mutational catalogues with imposed mutational signatures. The tool is the first mutational signature simulator featuring a graphical user interface, control of mutation rates and built-in visualization tools of the simulated mutations. Simulated datasets are useful as a ground truth to test the accuracy and sensitivity of DNA sequence classification tools and mutational signature extraction tools under different experimental scenarios. The reliability of SomaticSiMu was affirmed by (i) supervised machine learning classification of simulated sequences with different mutation types and burdens, and (ii) mutational signature extraction from simulated mutational catalogues.

Availability and implementation

SomaticSiMu is written in Python 3.8.3. The open-source code, documentation and tutorials are available at https://github.com/HillLab/SomaticSiMu under the terms of the CreativeCommonsAttribution4.0InternationalLicense.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Where Is Garlic Mustard? Understanding the Ecological Context for Invasions of Alliaria petiolata
Authors: Rodgers Vikki L , Scanga Sara E , Kolozsvary Mary Beth , Garneau Danielle E , Kilgore Jason S , Anderson Laurel J , Hopfensperger Kristine N , Aguilera Anna G , Urban Rebecca A , Juneau Kevyn J
Published: March 2022

The invasive plant Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard) has spread throughout forest understory and edge communities in much of North America, but its persistence, density, and impacts have varied across sites and time. Surveying the literature since 2008, we evaluated both previously proposed and new mechanisms for garlic mustard's invasion success and note how they interact and vary across ecological contexts. We analyzed how and where garlic mustard has been studied and found a lack of multisite and longitudinal studies, as well as regions that may be under- or overstudied, leading to poor representation for understanding and predicting future invasion dynamics. Inconsistencies in how sampling units are scaled and defined can also hamper our understanding of invasive species. We present new conceptual models for garlic mustard invasion from a macrosystems perspective, emphasizing the importance of synergies and feedbacks among mechanisms across spatial and temporal scales to produce variable ecological contexts.
‘If I’m not real, I’m Not Having an Impact’: Relationality and Vicarious Resistance in Complex Trauma Care
Authors: Woodlock Delanie , Salter Michael , Conroy Elizabeth , Burke Jackie , Dragiewicz Molly
Published: March 2022

There is growing commitment to trauma-informed practice and increased recognition of risks associated with this work. However, the benefits of working with trauma-affected clients are under-studied. Drawing on interviews with sixty-three welfare, health and legal professionals in Australia, we consider the salutogenic dynamics of work with women with experiences of complex trauma. Participants articulated an ethics of care in which professionals ally with clients against abuse and violence as well as transactional neoliberal service models. We identify this approach to trauma work as a form of vicarious resistance that challenges dichotomies of vicarious trauma and resilience.
Tackling organ donation among minority ethnic communities in the UK—a whole systems approach
Authors: Randhawa Gurch , Gardiner Dale
Published: March 2022

Introduction

There are inequalities experienced by minority ethnic groups in the UK in organ donation and transplant services, with significant variation in relation to demand for, access to and waiting times for these services.

Sources of data

A narrative review of research obtained via several databases, including PubMed and Medline, was conducted.

Areas of agreement

A vision of equity and inclusion, which meets the need of the heterogeneous UK population, can only be realized by adopting a culturally competent approach to systems-wide working in organ donation in four core areas—transplant services; workforce and staff training; diversity and inclusion research; and public engagement.

Areas of controversy

Most of the data on the background of organ donors and recipients use general categories such as Asian or Black. We need to progress to a position of more granular data by more specific ethnicity so that we can better understand the trends and target action accordingly.

Growing points

By positively embracing the heterogeneity of the UK population, demand for transplantation can be reduced through a sustained commitment to public health interventions and culturally competent approaches in the management of long-term conditions.

Areas timely for developing research

Improved access to transplantation and reduced waiting times can be achieved to increase the number of organ donors from minority ethnic groups if there are concerted and adequately resourced culturally competent interventions with concomitant evaluation programmes.
Benchmark assessment of performance indices of a selection of hybrid nanofluids in a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal system
Authors: Amoo O M , Fagbenle R O , Oyewola M O
Published: March 2022

This research is a study assessing the performance of hybrid nanofluids in hybrid photovoltaic (PV)–thermal systems. This study addresses 10 hybrid nanofluids applied to hybrid PV–thermal systems. The transition to carbon-free energy can mitigate the worst effects of climate change, ensuring that global sustainability is addressed. Clean energy is now responsible for one-third of the global capacity, of which 20% is attributed to solar energy. Renewables continue to be economically viable, with declining costs driving growth. This study aims to compare the yearly performances of a model hybrid PV–thermal system using 10 different hybrid nanofluids. Hybrid nanofluids constitute two or more dissimilar materials stably suspended in a base fluid (e.g. water). MATLAB and COMSOL Multiphysics® computational fluid dynamics software are employed together for the benchmarking assessment with good agreement observed. Various fluid inlet temperatures (Tin ∈ [300, 360] K), nanofluid volume concentrations (φ ∈ [0, 4]%) and storage-tank volumes (V ∈ [50, 300] L) were simulated. The meteorological data applied were those for Lagos, Nigeria (6° 27’ 55.5192” N, 3° 24’ 23.2128” E). The assessment based on analytical-numerical solutions reveals that the thermal enhancement by hybrid nanofluids ranges from 6.7% (graphene oxide [GO]—multiwalled carbon nanotube [MWCNT]/water) to 7% (ZnO—Mn–ZnFe2O4/water) for φ = 2% and V = 300 L. The yearly exergy efficiency ranges from 2.8% (ZnO—Mn–ZnFe2O4/water) to 2.9% (GO—MWCNT/water), also for φ = 2% and V = 300 L. These findings have implications for a vast range of industrial processes, expanding the knowledge that is critical to a sustainable future.

A combined solar PV-thermal system that stores thermal energy using nanofluids is modelled. Hybrid nanofluids (two or more dissimilar materials stably suspended in a base fluid) are shown to enhance the annual electrical, thermal and exergetic outputs of the system.
Short-term wind power prediction using an improved grey wolf optimization algorithm with back-propagation neural network
Authors: Wei Liming , Xv Shuo , Li Bin
Published: March 2022

A short-term wind power prediction method is proposed in this paper with experimental results obtained from a wind farm located in Northeast China. In order to improve the accuracy of the prediction method using a traditional back-propagation (BP) neural network algorithm, the improved grey wolf optimization (IGWO) algorithm has been adopted to optimize its parameters. The performance of the proposed method has been evaluated by experiments. First, the features of the wind farm are described to show the fundamental information of the experiments. A single turbine with rated power of 1500 kW and power generation coefficient of 2.74 in the wind farm was introduced to show the technical details of the turbines. Original wind power data of the whole farm were preprocessed by using the quartile method to remove the abnormal data points. Then, the retained wind power data were predicted and analysed by using the proposed IGWO–BP algorithm. Analysis of the results proves the practicability and efficiency of the prediction model. Results show that the average accuracy of prediction is ~11% greater than the traditional BP method. In this way, the proposed wind power prediction method can be adopted to improve the accuracy of prediction and to ensure the effective utilization of wind energy.

A short-term wind power prediction method is designed and tested with experimental results obtained from a wind farm located in Northeast China. In order to improve the accuracy of the prediction method, the improved grey wolf optimization algorithm has been adopted to optimize its parameters.
Sapap4deficiency leads to postsynaptic defects and abnormal behaviors relevant to hyperkinetic neuropsychiatric disorder in mice
Authors: Wang Tianhua , Bai Yunxia , Zheng Xianjie , Liu Xinxia , Xing Shuang , Wang Linbin , Wang Huimin , Feng Guoping , Li Chunxia
Published: March 2022

Postsynaptic proteins play critical roles in synaptic development, function, and plasticity. Dysfunction of postsynaptic proteins is strongly linked to neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. SAP90/PSD95-associated protein 4 (SAPAP4; also known as DLGAP4) is a key component of the PSD95–SAPAP–SHANK excitatory postsynaptic scaffolding complex, which plays important roles at synapses. However, the exact function of the SAPAP4 protein in the brain is poorly understood. Here, we report that Sapap4 knockout (KO) mice have reduced spine density in the prefrontal cortex and abnormal compositions of key postsynaptic proteins in the postsynaptic density (PSD) including reduced PSD95, GluR1, and GluR2 as well as increased SHANK3. These synaptic defects are accompanied by a cluster of abnormal behaviors including hyperactivity, impulsivity, reduced despair/depression-like behavior, hypersensitivity to low dose of amphetamine, memory deficits, and decreased prepulse inhibition, which are reminiscent of mania. Furthermore, the hyperactivity of Sapap4 KO mice could be partially rescued by valproate, a mood stabilizer used for mania treatment in humans. Together, our findings provide evidence that SAPAP4 plays an important role at synapses and reinforce the view that dysfunction of the postsynaptic scaffolding protein SAPAP4 may contribute to the pathogenesis of hyperkinetic neuropsychiatric disorder.
Pain Is Widespread and Predicts Poor Mental Health Among Older Adults in Rural Malawi
Authors: Kohler Iliana V , Ciancio Alberto , Kämpfen Fabrice , Kohler Hans-Peter , Mwapasa Victor , Chilima Benson , Vinkhumbo Steve , Mwera James , Maurer Jürgen
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

Pain is common among older persons and has been documented as an important predictor of disability, health, and economic outcomes. Evidence about its prevalence and relationship to well-being is scarce in rural sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where work is frequently physically demanding, and pain prevention or treatment options are limited. We investigate the prevalence of pain and its association with mental health and subjective well-being in a population-based study of older adults in rural Malawi.

Research Design and Methods

We estimate the prevalence, severity, and duration of pain along with its sociodemographic distribution in a sample of 1,577 individuals aged 45 and older. We assess the association of pain with clinically validated measures of mental health, including depression and anxiety, and subjective well-being.

Results

Pain is widespread in this mature population with an average age of 60 years: 62% of respondents report the experience of at least minor pain during the last year, and half of these cases report severe or disabling pain. Women are more likely to report pain than men. Pain is a strong predictor of mental health and subjective well-being for both genders. More severe or longer pain episodes are associated with worse mental states. Individuals reporting pain are more likely to suffer from depression or express suicidal thoughts.

Discussion and Implications

Our study identifies key subpopulations such as older women in a SSA low-income context who are particularly affected by the experience of pain in daily life and calls for interventions targeting pain and its consequences for mental health and subjective well-being.
Structural characterization of human milk oligosaccharides using ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography–helium charge transfer dissociation mass spectrometry
Authors: Mendis Praneeth M , Jackson Glen P
Published: March 2022

The combination of helium charge transfer dissociation mass spectrometry (He–CTD–MS) with ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) is presented for the analysis of a complex mixture of acidic and neutral human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). The research focuses on the identification of the monosaccharide sequence, the branching patterns, the sialylation/fucosylation arrangements, and the differentiation of isomeric oligosaccharides in the mixture. Initial studies first optimized the conditions for the UHPLC separation and the He–CTD–MS conditions. Results demonstrate that He–CTD is compatible with UHPLC timescales and provides unambiguous glycosidic and cross-ring cleavages from both the reducing and the nonreducing ends, which is not typically possible using collision-induced dissociation. He–CTD produces informative fragments, including 0,3An and 0,4An ions, which have been observed with electron transfer dissociation, electron detachment dissociation, and ultraviolet photodissociation (UVPD) and are crucial for differentiating the α-2,3- versus α-2,6-linked sialic acid (Neu5Ac) residues present among sialyllacto-N-tetraose HMOs. In addition to the linkage positions, He–CTD is able to differentiate structural isomers for both sialyllacto-N-tetraoses and lacto-N-fucopentaoses structures by providing unique, unambiguous cross-ring cleavages of types 0,2An, 0,2Xn, and 1,5An while preserving most of the labile Neu5Ac and fucose groups.
Assessing the Cost-Utility of Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination Among Adults
Authors: Hall Eric W , Weng Mark K , Harris Aaron M , Schillie Sarah , Nelson Noele P , Ortega-Sanchez Ismael R , Rosenthal Elizabeth , Sullivan Patrick S , Lopman Ben , Jones Jeb , Bradley Heather , Rosenberg Eli S
Published: March 2022

Background

Although effective against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, hepatitis B (HepB) vaccination is only recommended for infants, children, and adults at higher risk. We conducted an economic evaluation of universal HepB vaccination among US adults.

Methods

Using a decision analytic model with Markov disease progression, we compared current vaccination recommendations (baseline) with either 3-dose or 2-dose universal HepB vaccination (intervention strategies). In simulated modeling of 1 million adults distributed by age and risk groups, we quantified health benefits (quality-adjusted life years, QALYs) and costs for each strategy. Multivariable probabilistic sensitivity analyses identified key inputs. All costs reported in 2019 US dollars.

Results

With incremental base-case vaccination coverage up to 50% among persons at lower risk and 0% increment among persons at higher risk, each of 2 intervention strategies averted nearly one-quarter of acute HBV infections (3-dose strategy, 24.8%; 2-dose strategy, 24.6%). Societal incremental cost per QALY gained of $152 722 (interquartile range, $119 113–$235 086) and $155 429 (interquartile range, $120 302–$242 226) were estimated for 3-dose and 2-dose strategies, respectively. Risk of acute HBV infection showed the strongest influence.

Conclusions

Universal adult vaccination against HBV may be an appropriate strategy for reducing HBV incidence and improving resulting health outcomes.
Telithromycin resistance in Campylobacter mediated by 23S rRNA A2075G mutation and erm(B)
Authors: Liu Peng , Qin Xiaoxia , Cao Tingting , Yang Yuying , Shi Xiaomin , Liu Dejun , Wang Yang , Shen Zhangqi , Wang Shaolin
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Recently, epidemiological research has shown an unusually high prevalence of telithromycin-resistant Campylobacter. This study was designed to investigate the potential resistance mechanism of telithromycin resistance in Campylobacter.

Methods

A total of 122 Campylobacter isolates of chicken origin collected in 2019 from three regions of China were tested for susceptibility to telithromycin. The potential mechanism of resistance to telithromycin in Campylobacter was revealed through WGS analysis and natural transformation.

Results

In this study, 51.3% (61/119) of Campylobacter coli and 100.0% (3/3) of Campylobacter jejuni were resistant to telithromycin. erm(B) or A2075G mutation in 23S rRNA (23S_A2075G) was identified in the telithromycin-resistant C. coli. Cloning of the erm(B) or 23S_A2075G into C. jejuni NCTC 11168 resulted in a 256-fold increase in the MIC of telithromycin. MLST results indicated that various STs were involved in the dissemination of 23S_A2075G and erm(B). Phylogenetic analysis showed that the C. coli isolates with 23S_A2075G and erm(B) from chickens and humans were closely related.

Conclusions

23S_A2075G and erm(B), which have been widely spread in different genotypes of C. coli isolated from animals and humans, could mediate high levels of resistance to telithromycin in C. coli. C. coli containing 23S_A2075G or erm(B) are clonally related and have the potential to spread zoonotic diseases.
Surgical and perioperative treatment strategy for resectable esophagogastric junction cancer
Authors: Yanagimoto Yoshitomo , Kurokawa Yukinori , Doki Yuichiro , Yoshikawa Takaki , Boku Narikazu , Terashima Masanori
Published: March 2022

Esophagogastric junction cancer is defined as adenocarcinoma with the epicenter within 5 cm of the esophagogastric junction in the West according to the Siewert classification. In contrast, it is defined as cancer of any histological type with the epicenter located within 2 cm proximal or distal to the esophagogastric junction in Japan according to the Nishi classification. Recently, the incidence of esophagogastric junction cancer has been rapidly rising all over the world, leading to much attention. Esophagogastric junction cancer was previously treated like gastric cancer or esophageal cancer because it is a less frequently occurring tumor. Esophagogastric junction cancer is considered to have worse prognosis than gastric cancer. Therefore, in recent years, esophagogastric junction cancer has been recognized as an independent malignant disease with poor prognosis, and thus development of treatment strategies focused on esophagogastric junction cancer is needed. The mapping of frequent metastasis in the mediastinal and abdominal lymph nodes has revealed the lymphatic flow from esophagogastric junction cancer specifically, establishing the optimal lymph node dissection area and surgical approach. The development of multimodal treatment that includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy has been applied to improve the survival of esophagogastric junction cancer. In this review, we summarize clinical trials with important evidence on surgical and multimodal perioperative treatments for esophagogastric junction cancer.
Physician Dispensing Among Urology Practices and the Use of Abiraterone or Enzalutamide for Men With Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lai Lillian Y , Kaufman Samuel R , Oerline Mary K , Caram Megan E V , Maganty Avinash , Hollenbeck Brent K , Shahinian Vahakn B
Published: March 2022

Urologists are increasingly prescribing oral targeted therapies to patients with advanced prostate cancer. Concurrent with this trend, urology practices are allowing patients to fill their prescription onsite or through a pharmacy established by the practice. We examined prescription patterns for abiraterone or enzalutamide between eventually dispensing single-specialty urology practices, nondispensing single-specialty urology practices, and multispecialty practices using a 20% random sample of the 2013-2017 national Medicare claims. We determined physician dispensing through manual search of publicly available information. From 2015 through 2017, higher percentages of patients managed by eventually dispensing single-specialty urology practices had a filled prescription of abiraterone or enzalutamide compared with patients managed in nondispensing single-specialty urology practices (eg, in 2017, 8.9%, 95% confidence interval = 7.3% to 10.9%, vs 5.9%, 95% confidence interval = 5.0% to 7.0%, respectively; 2-sided P < .001). Insofar as physician dispensing is associated with higher use of abiraterone or enzalutamide, it may represent a means to improve treatment access.
Development of Peer Relationships From Adolescence into Emerging Adulthood: Comparing Males and Females With and Without Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Raymaekers Koen , Berg Cynthia A , Helgeson Vicki S
Published: March 2022

Objective

Friendships and romantic relationships are important sources of support that contribute to well-being for youth across adolescence and emerging adulthood and may be especially important for those with a chronic illness. We examined gender differences in trajectories of peer relationships among those with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and how they differ from those without.

Methods

Individuals with T1D (N = 132) and controls (N = 131) completed questionnaires across 11 years (M age = 12 years at baseline). Trajectories of friend support, conflict, and companionship were estimated from ages 11 to 23. Romantic support and conflict trajectories were estimated from ages 17 to 23.

Results

Females experienced more friend support than males, especially in comparison to males with T1D. Control females experienced highest levels of romantic support and lowest levels of romantic conflict. In comparison to control males, males with T1D experienced less friend support in early adolescence and less companionship in late adolescence and emerging adulthood. In comparison to control females, females with T1D experienced less friend support in late adolescence and more romantic conflict in emerging adulthood.

Conclusions

Findings that males with T1D report less friend support and companionship compared to control males, and females with T1D report less friend support and more romantic conflict than control females are of concern as these results suggest those with T1D may be missing out on important aspects of peer relationships. Understanding the broader social network of peer relationships may be useful to clinicians as they assist individuals in garnering support in general and for their diabetes.