bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of Gram‐negative bacilli in subgingival biofilm associated with periodontal diseases
Authors: Espíndola Laís Christina Pontes , Picão Renata Cristina , Mançano Stella Maria Casas Novas , Martins do Souto Renata , Colombo Ana Paula Vieira
Published: May 2021

Background

This cross‐sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of Gram‐negative bacilli (GNB) isolated from subgingival biofilm of individuals with different periodontal conditions.

Methods

Subgingival biofilm was obtained from 362 individuals with periodontal health (PH) (n = 83), gingivitis (n = 74), and periodontitis (n = 205), cultivated in broth and selective media. Isolated strains were identified by mass spectrometry. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute disk diffusion guidelines. Production of extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenemases were evaluated by double disk synergy test and spectrophotometric detection of imipenem hydrolysis, respectively. ESBL and carbapenemase encoding genes were surveyed by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Differences among groups were examined by Chi‐square, Kruskal‒Wallis or Mann‐Whitney tests.

Results

GNB were isolated from 36.2% of all subgingival biofilm samples, with a significantly greater prevalence and species diversity (P < 0.001) in patients with periodontitis (45.9%) compared with individuals with PH (24.1%) and gingivitis (22.9%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa (27.5%), Enterobacter cloacae (16.8%), and Enterobacter asburiae (10.7%) were the most predominant species. Resistance/reduced sensitivity to at least 1 antimicrobial was detected in 60% of the strains, but only 4.6% were multidrug resistant. Serratia marcescens, E. cloacae, and Enterobacter kobei presented high rates of intrinsic resistance (>40%) to amoxicillin‐clavulanate and first/second‐generations of cephalosporins. One strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from periodontitis was resistant to imipenem, but no ESBL encoding genes or ESBL phenotype was detected.

Conclusion

High prevalence and diversity of GNB, with low susceptibility to β‐lactams are observed in the subgingival microbiota associated with periodontitis.
Intratympanic Lipopolysaccharide Elevates Systemic Fluorescent Gentamicin Uptake in the Cochlea
Authors: Chai Yongchuan , He Weiwei , Yang Weiqiang , Hetrick Alisa P. , Gonzalez Jessica G. , Sargsyan Liana , Wu Hao , Jung Timothy T. K. , Li Hongzhe
Published: May 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a key component of bacterial endotoxins, activates macrophages and triggers the release of inflammatory cytokines in mammalian tissues. Recent studies have shown that intratympanic injection of LPS simulates acute otitis media (AOM) and results in morphological and functional changes in the inner ear. Here we established an AOM mouse model with LPS to investigate the uptake of ototoxic gentamicin in the inner ear, and elucidated the underlying mechanism by focusing on cochlear inflammation as a result of AOM.

Study Design

Preclinical rodent animal model.

Methods

Fluorescently tagged gentamicin (GTTR) was systemically administered to mice with AOM. Iba1‐positive macrophage morphology and inner ear cytokine profile were evaluated by immunofluorescence technique and a mouse cytokine array kit, respectively.

Results

We observed characteristic symptoms of AOM in the LPS‐treated ears with elevated hearing thresholds indicating a conductive hearing loss. More importantly, the LPS‐induced AOM activated cochlear inflammatory responses, manifested by macrophage infiltration, particularly in the organ of Corti and the spiral ligament, in addition to the up‐regulation of proinflammatory cytokines. Meanwhile, GTTR uptake in the stria vascularis and sensory hair cells from all the LPS‐treated ears was significantly enhanced at 24, 48, and 72‐hour post‐treatment, as the most prominent enhancement was observed in the 48‐hour group.

Conclusion

In summary, this study suggests that the pathological cochlea is more susceptible to ototoxic drugs, including aminoglycosides, and justified the clinical concern of aminoglycoside ototoxicity in the AOM treatment. Laryngoscope, 131:E2573–E2582, 2021
Micro‐to‐macro interactions in complex bodies: Wavelet‐based post‐processing detection
Authors: Bosi Anna , Mariano Paolo Maria , Salvatori Luca
Published: May 2021

We propose to couple finite element simulations and wavelet‐based post‐processing analysis to explore deeply the interaction degree of microscopic events on the gross behavior of complex bodies (which class includes metamaterials), above all around material or load discontinuities. After summarizing the theoretical structures our procedure refers to, as a sample case we select a special class of complex materials, namely, quasicrystals, and show how the proposed scheme works. As a result, we point out the effects of atomic rearrangements characterizing the quasicrystal structure on the stress field around a crack tip in static and dynamical setting. Our procedure can be also used for the analysis of dynamic experimental data. In this case, it allows us to detect discontinuities at least along directions selected within the body. In turn, our procedure can be used for monitoring purposes.
Advanced paramedics and nurses can deliver safe and effective pre‐hospital and in‐hospital emergency care: An integrative review
Authors: Jansson Jörgen , Larsson Maria , Nilsson Jan
Published: May 2021

Aim

To explore and present an overview of scope of practice among registered nurses and paramedics with an advanced level of education in pre‐hospital and in‐hospital emergency care.

Design

An integrative literature review.

Method

Studies published between 2006 and 2018 were retrieved by searching the databases CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Studies were selected by three independent researchers, and data were synthesized using thematic analysis.

Results

The 25 studies identified focused on in‐hospital (n = 15) and pre‐hospital emergency care (n = 10) and included 13 professional titles originated from seven countries. The thematic analysis disclosed four themes; “Versatile care,” “Safe care based on precision and accuracy,” “Autonomous performance within boundaries” and “Beneficial towards patients and society.” Advanced paramedics’ and advanced nurses’ services are characterized as safe, of high quality and of public benefit. Their services are being used in everyday practice as well as directed to certain categories of patients.
Prepare to Comply With the Revised Lead and Copper Rule
Authors: Estes‐Smargiassi Stephen , Via Steve
Published: May 2021

Deadlines for compliance with the revised Lead and Copper Rule begin in January 2024, giving water utilities just under three years to complete several significant tasks related to service line inventories, service line replacement plans, communication plans, and other rules. The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has offered the possibility of an eight‐month delay, but systems should still start now.
21st‐Century Water Meters Maximize Precision
Authors: Crevcoure Brooke , Weston Tasha
Published: May 2021

Water meters determine the success of any water system. Today's smart, long‐lasting meters have raised the bar on technology that has evolved dramatically in the past decade.
Approaches on PCL/macaíba biocomposites ‐ mechanical, thermal, morphological properties and crystallization kinetics
Authors: Siqueira Danilo D. , Luna Carlos B. B. , Araújo Edcleide M. , Barros Ana B. S. , Wellen Renate M. R
Published: May 2021

Biocomposites based on macaíba shell (MS) and Polycaprolactone (PCL) were melting processed in this work; seeking better compatibility between PCL, MS was chemically treated with maleic anhydride (MA) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), in addition, PCL‐g‐MA was used as compatibilizer. The biocomposites' performance was evaluated through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetry (TG), contact angle, water absorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the tensile experiments were executed according to ASTM D638 and the nonisothermal crystallization kinetics was performed from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) scans using Pseudo‐Avrami, Ozawa, and Mo models. Chemical treated and compatibilized biocomposites presented better tensile behavior with no significant changes in the thermal stability. Higher HDT was verified on PCL/MS biocompounds due to the MS hardening effect, whereas higher contact angle and water absorption were computed for PCL/MS most due to new ways origin for the water get in as provided by MS. Related to crystallization kinetics Ozawa as displayed in the Appendix S1 failed to fit PCL/MS kinetics whereas Pseudo‐Avrami and Momay be safely used form processing purposes. Summing up, PCL/MS biocomposites were carefully investigated and gathered information may be promptly used in sundry applications as well as be added to the literature database.
Effect of an interventional educational wheelchair program on medical students' understanding of manual wheelchair use
Authors: Gilbert Courtney , Hsieh Shelly , Donovan Jayne , Dyson‐Hudson Trevor , Cabarle Mary , Granger Syndi , Kirshblum Steven
Published: May 2021

Background

There is limited literature exploring the benefits of interactive wheelchair educational programs in medical student curricula.

Objective

To identify the effect of an educational interactive wheelchair program on medical students' understanding of wheelchair use. Researchers hypothesized that the program would increase understanding.

Design

Repeated‐measures survey study with postintervention comparison.

Setting

Inpatient acute rehabilitation center.

Participants

Out of 123 eligible fourth‐year medical students on a mandatory physical medicine and rehabilitation clerkship, 79 students participated.

Intervention

All participants underwent a 2‐hour educational wheelchair program consisting of (1) a disability lecture; (2) a video on the importance of proper wheelchair type and fit, wheelchair prescription, as well as recreational wheelchair use; and (3) an interactive wheelchair experience.

Main Outcome Measures

Pre‐ and postsurvey Likert scale questions measured medical students' understanding of four main areas: (1) impact of manual wheelchair use, (2) challenges of manual wheelchair use, (3) manual wheelchair skills, and (4) wheelchair etiquette.

Results

A two‐tailed sign test demonstrated a highly significant increase from pre‐ to postsurvey scores in each survey section (P < .001). Presurvey and postsurvey mean scores for impact of manual wheelchair use, challenges of manual wheelchair use, manual wheelchair skills, and wheelchair etiquette survey sections were 3.9 and 4.4, 3.1 and 4.4, 2.4 and 4.4, and 2.5 and 4.0, respectively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that an interactive educational wheelchair program effectively increases medical students' understanding of manual wheelchair use. The addition of an educational interactive wheelchair program to medical student curricula is recommended to improve medical students' understanding of manual wheelchair use and its impact on users.
Association of prostate cancer polygenic risk score with number and laterality of tumor cores in active surveillance patients
Authors: Xu Jianfeng , Isaacs William B. , Mamawala Mufaddal , Shi Zhuqing , Landis Patricia , Petkewicz Jacqueline , Wei Jun , Wang Chi‐Hsiung , Resurreccion W. Kyle , Na Rong , Bhanji Yasin , Novakovic Kristian , Walsh Patrick C. , Zheng S. Lilly , Helfand Brian T. , Pavlovich Christian P.
Published: May 2021

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is characterized by its tendency to be multifocal. However, few studies have investigated the endogenous factors that explain the multifocal disease. The primary objective of the current study is to test whether inherited PCa risk is associated with multifocal tumors in PCa patients.

Methods

Subjects in this study were PCa patients of European ancestry undergoing active surveillance at Johns Hopkins Hospital (N = 805) and NorthShore University HealthSystem (N = 432). The inherited risk was measured by genetic risk score (GRS), an odds ratio‐weighted and population‐standardized polygenic risk score based on known risk‐associated single nucleotide polymorphisms. PCa multifocality was indirectly measured by the number and laterality of positive tumor cores from a 12‐core systematic biopsy.

Results

In the combined cohort, 35.7% and 66.3% of patients had ≥2 tumor cores at the initial diagnostic biopsy and on at least one subsequent surveillance biopsy, respectively. For tumor laterality, 7.8% and 47.8% of patients had bilateral tumor cores at diagnostic and surveillance biopsies, respectively. We found, for the first time, that patients with higher numbers of positive cores at diagnostic and surveillance biopsies, respectively, had significantly higher mean GRS values; p = .01 and p = 5.94E−04. Additionally, patients with bilateral tumors at diagnostic and surveillance biopsies, respectively, had significantly higher mean GRS values than those with unilateral tumors; p = .04 and p = .01. In contrast, no association was found between GRS and maximum core length of tumor or tumor grade at diagnostic/surveillance biopsies (all p > .05). Finally, we observed a modest trend that patients with higher GRS quartiles had a higher risk for tumor upgrading on surveillance biopsies. The trend, however, was not statistically significant (p > .05).

Conclusions

The associations of GRS with two measurements of PCa multifocality (core numbers and laterality) provide novel and consistent evidence for the link between inherited PCa risk and multifocal tumors.
Optimizing Oxide Mixing Ratio for Achieving Energy‐Efficient Oxide Thin‐Film Transistors
Authors: Moon Jaehyun , Lee Jeong-Mu , Lee Hwan-Jae , Pi Jae-Eun , Na Jeho , Ahn Seong-Deok , Kang Seung-Youl
Published: May 2021

With an atomic layer deposition (ALD) method, mixed oxide thin films can be formed. This feature allows to experimentally deduce the mixing ratio of oxide components, which yields optimal device properties. Herein, all‐oxide bottom‐gate thin‐film transistors (TFTs) having binary ZnOx–InOy channel are fabricated. To find composition, which yields energy‐efficient TFTs of low subthreshold swing (SS) characteristics, mixed oxide channels of ZnOx and InOy are prepared, using a plasma‐enhanced ALD method and liquid precursors of diethyl zinc and 3‐(dimethylamino)propyl‐dimethyl indium. Channel comprised of ZnOx:InOy = 1:2 exhibits the best transfer characteristics with a highest field effect mobility and a lowest SS of 30.3 cm2 V s−1 and 0.14 V dec−1, respectively. The variation on SS is discussed quantitatively in terms of channel depletion and the quantitative description on oxygen vacancy.
Liquid‐Phase Synthesis of Hydrophilic Luminescent Carbon Dots Using Porous Silica as a Nanotemplate
Authors: Vasin Andrii , Kysil Dmytro , Sevostianov Stanislav , Isaieva Oksana , Rudko Galyna , Capoen Bruno , Bouazaoui Mohamed , El Hamzaoui Hicham , Tertykh Valentyn , Starik Sergii , Nazarov Alexei
Published: May 2021

Herein, nanoporous silica monoliths are used as a morphological template for liquid‐phase synthesis of luminescent carbon nanodots. Two kinds of sol–gel‐derived porous silica samples with the average nanopore sizes of 40 and 7 nm are infiltrated with sucrose/dimethyl sulfoxide solution followed by thermolysis at 170–180 °C. Thermal treatment causes the formation of carbon moieties that are, afterward, extracted into water. The obtained aqueous solutions of carbon dots show intense photoluminescence. The observed emission and excitation bands are strongly affected by the morphology of nanoporous silica template. Larger pore size of silica nanotemplate results in the red shift of the emission and excitation bands.
Quantum computing hardware in the cloud: Should a computational chemist care?
Authors: Rossi Alessandro , Baity Paul G. , Schäfer Vera M. , Weides Martin
Published: May 2021

Within the last decade much progress has been made in the experimental realization of quantum computing hardware based on a variety of physical systems. Rapid progress has been fuelled by the conviction that sufficiently powerful quantum machines will herald enormous computational advantages in many fields, including chemical research. A quantum computer capable of simulating the electronic structures of complex molecules would be a game changer for the design of new drugs and materials. Given the potential implications of this technology, there is a need within the chemistry community to keep abreast with the latest developments as well as becoming involved in experimentation with quantum prototypes. To facilitate this, here we review the types of quantum computing hardware that have been made available to the public through cloud services. We focus on three architectures, namely superconductors, trapped ions and semiconductors. For each one we summarize the basic physical operations, requirements and performance. We discuss to what extent each system has been used for molecular chemistry problems and highlight the most pressing hardware issues to be solved for a chemistry‐relevant quantum advantage to eventually emerge.
Acute Kidney Injury Successfully Treated with Autologous Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor-mobilized Peripheral Blood CD34-Positive Cell Transplantation: A first-in-Human Report
Authors: Suzuki Hiroyuki , Ohtake Takayasu , Tsukiyama Toshitaka , Morota Marie , Ishioka Kunihiro , Moriya Hidekazu , Mochida Yasuhiro , Hidaka Sumi , Sato Tsutomu , Asahara Takayuki , Kobayashi Shuzo
Published: May 2021

A 36-year-old man with severe acute kidney injury (AKI) was admitted to Shonan Kamakura General Hospital in Japan. He was diagnosed with refractory hypertension based on a severely elevated blood pressure of 224/116 mmHg and retinal, cardiac, and brain damage revealed by electrocardiogram, fundoscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging, respectively. Although hemodialysis was withdrawn following strict blood pressure control by an angiotensin receptor blocker, severe kidney insufficiency persisted. Therefore, we performed an autologous granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-mobilized peripheral blood CD34-positive cell transplantation. Collected CD34-positive cells were directly infused to both renal arteries. The patient's general condition was unremarkable after intervention, and the serum creatinine level gradually improved to 2.96 mg/dL 23 weeks after cell therapy. Although transient fever and thrombocytosis were observed after intervention, no major adverse events were observed. This patient is the first case in a phase I/II clinical trial of autologous granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-mobilized peripheral blood CD34-positive cell transplantation for severe AKI with a CD34-positive cell dose-escalating protocol (trial number jRCTb030190231).
Nowcasting COVID‐19 incidence indicators during the Italian first outbreak
Authors: Alaimo Di Loro Pierfrancesco , Divino Fabio , Farcomeni Alessio , Jona Lasinio Giovanna , Lovison Gianfranco , Maruotti Antonello , Mingione Marco
Published: May 2021

A novel parametric regression model is proposed to fit incidence data typically collected during epidemics. The proposal is motivated by real‐time monitoring and short‐term forecasting of the main epidemiological indicators within the first outbreak of COVID‐19 in Italy. Accurate short‐term predictions, including the potential effect of exogenous or external variables are provided. This ensures to accurately predict important characteristics of the epidemic (e.g., peak time and height), allowing for a better allocation of health resources over time. Parameter estimation is carried out in a maximum likelihood framework. All computational details required to reproduce the approach and replicate the results are provided.
Charging stations‐oriented electric vehicle charging strategy based on battery characteristics
Authors: Sun Lei , Chen Yanfeng , Li Wenlong , Deng Qingxu
Published: May 2021

In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) receive intensive attention due to their environment‐friendly nature and outstanding energy efficiency. However, there are still obstacles in EVs' popularity. Battery related issues are most concerned from users' perspective. While the evolution in battery technology may help to address the aforementioned problems eventually, other solutions are in urgent demand for the time being. In this paper, we propose an innovative charge scheduling method that could significantly improve EV users' charging experience with the nowadays battery technology. Specifically, the proposed method takes into account the characteristics of the batteries to be charged as well as the constraints of the external power grid; thus, a plan can be devised for efficiently allocating the power of the charging station to the EVs through cyber‐physical system. Our method prioritizes jobs based on their marginal utilities to maximize user satisfaction with limited power resource. The power allocation in our method is managed globally and constrained by specific rules to avoid waste or overload in the power grid. Lastly, we simulate several power scheduling methods in charging stations, which validates that the user satisfaction under our method is higher than that of other traditional method.
Divergent trends of hospitalizations for upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding based on population prescriptions of aspirin, proton pump inhibitors and Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy
Authors: Guo Chuan‐Guo , Zhang Feifei , Wu Joseph T. , Cheung Ka‐Shing , Li Bofei , Law Simon Y. K. , Leung Wai K.
Published: May 2021

Background

With the increasing use of medications that alter the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB), comprising aspirin, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies, the trends of GIB are evolving.

Objective

The aim of this study is to determine and predict the trends of GIB and to evaluate the effects of population prescriptions of these medications on GIB incidences.

Methods

We retrieved patients hospitalized for GIB in all public hospitals in Hong Kong between 2009 and 2019. Monthly age‐ and sex‐standardized GIB data were fitted and predicted, based on population prescriptions of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticoagulants, other antiplatelet drugs, PPIs, and H. pylori therapies, using autoregressive integrated moving average model for time series analysis.

Results

The incidence of upper GIB (UGIB) showed a clear declining trend while lower GIB (LGIB) decreased slightly. Older population (>80 years) had the greatest decline in UGIB but was associated with an increase in LGIB. Prescriptions of PPIs and aspirin increased significantly with time. PPIs prescriptions were negatively associated with UGIB incidence (coefficient log(PPIs) −4.58; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −5.69, −3.47). H. pylori eradication in the previous month showed a nonsignificant trend on UGIB (coefficient −0.14; 95% CI: −0.30, 0.02). In contrast, aspirin increased the incidences of UGIB (coefficient 0.06; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.07) and LGIB (coefficient 0.04; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.05). NSAIDs, anticoagulants, and other antiplatelet drugs were not significantly associated with the trend of either UGIB or LGIB. UGIB is predicted to decline continuously but LGIB is projected to rise, particularly with increasing use of aspirin.

Conclusions

UGIB incidences were decreasing and had been surpassed by LGIB. Based on population prescriptions of aspirin and PPIs, divergent trends of upper and lower GIB are expected, especially in elderly.
Molecular detection of Theileria sergentii/orientalis/buffeli and Ehrlichia canis from aborted ovine and caprine products in Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Chisu Valentina , Loi Federica , Mura Lorena , Tanda Antonio , Chessa Giovanna , Masala Giovanna
Published: May 2021

The economic impact and losses caused by abortion of small ruminants represent an important threat to livestock industry worldwide. Infectious agents are the most commonly causes of small ruminant abortion and many of which pose a serious threat to human health. The management of abortion outbreaks is essential to understand the transmission, prevention and control of the zoonotic diseases. This study aimed to increase the knowledge about the common known zoonotic pathogens causing abortion (Coxiella burnetii, Chlamydia abortus and Toxoplasma gondii) circulating in Sardinia. In addition, the occurrence of other infectious agents that, until now, had never been identified in abortion samples and which might be cocirculating during the abortion outbreaks were also considered. In this study, 125 abortion samples collected from 91 small ruminant farms were screened for the presence of Babesia/Theileria spp., Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma spp., Chlamydia spp., C. burnetii and T. gondii by PCR analyses and sequencing. This is the first evidence on the presence of Theileria sergenti/orientalis/buffeli group and Eh. canis in 22 (22/125; 18%) and 26 (26/125; 21%) abortion products from small ruminants, respectively. Chlamydia abortus, C. burnetii and T. gondii were also detected in brain, liver, spleen and placentae at 46% (58/125), 34% (42/125) and 2% (2/125), respectively. This study highlights that pathogens with epizootic and zoonotic potential are circulating in the island and could be involved directly or in association with other pathogens as possible cause of ruminant abortion. Further studies are needed to fully assess the impact of Theileria sergenti/orientalis/buffeli group and Eh. canis on ruminant abortion and their real zoonotic risk in the island.
Standardizing digital forensic examination procedures: A look at Windows 10 in cases involving images depicting child sexual abuse
Authors: Horsman Graeme
Published: May 2021

As a topic area, the need for the standardization of operational practices in digital forensics has seen much discussion. There are clear benefits for digital forensics if its procedures can be harmonized including increasing the reliability of the work produced by its practitioners, consistency of practice, and the potential for greater quality control, however, attaining standardization is a difficult task, and further work in this field is required. This work discusses the “standardization challenge” assessing both the need for standardization and the feasibility of achieving it. It is suggested that those actively contributing in this area should consider the development of models for defining operational practice which are offence‐specific, device‐specific and operating system‐specific. To support this proposal, an example standard is offered and discussed which suggests and documents the minimum expected requirements for the examination of Windows 10 devices in cases involving images depicting child sexual abuse.

This article is categorized under:

Digital and Multimedia Science > Cybercrime Investigation
Spiky strings in de Sitter space
Authors: Kato Mitsuhiro , Nishii Kanji , Noumi Toshifumi , Takeuchi Toshiaki , Zhou Siyi
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We study semiclassical spiky strings in de Sitter space and the corresponding Regge trajectories, generalizing the analysis in anti-de Sitter space. In particular we demonstrate that each Regge trajectory has a maximum spin due to de Sitter acceleration, similarly to the folded string studied earlier. While this property is useful for the spectrum to satisfy the Higuchi bound, it makes a nontrivial question how to maintain mildness of high-energy string scattering which we are familiar with in flat space and anti-de Sitter space. Our analysis implies that in order to have infinitely many higher spin states, one needs to consider infinitely many Regge trajectories with an increasing folding number.
The Wilson-loop d log representation for Feynman integrals
Authors: He Song , Li Zhenjie , Tang Yichao , Yang Qinglin
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We introduce and study a so-called Wilson-loop d log representation of certain Feynman integrals for scattering amplitudes in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM and beyond, which makes their evaluation completely straightforward. Such a representation was motivated by the dual Wilson loop picture, and it can also be derived by partial Feynman parametrization of loop integrals. We first introduce it for the simplest one-loop examples, the chiral pentagon in four dimensions and the three-mass-easy hexagon in six dimensions, which are represented by two- and three-fold d log integrals that are nicely related to each other. For multi-loop examples, we write the L-loop generalized penta-ladders as 2(L − 1)-fold d log integrals of some one-loop integral, so that once the latter is known, the integration can be performed in a systematic way. In particular, we write the eight-point penta-ladder as a 2L-fold d log integral whose symbol can be computed without performing any integration; we also obtain the last entries and the symbol alphabet of these integrals. Similarly we study the symbol of the seven-point double-penta-ladder, which is represented by a 2(L − 1)-fold integral of a hexagon; the latter can be written as a two-fold d log integral plus a boundary term. We comment on the relation of our representation to differential equations and resumming the ladders by solving certain integral equations.
Success in contests
Authors: Levine David K. , Mattozzi Andrea
Published: May 2021

Models of two contestants exerting effort to win a prize are very common and widely used in political economy. The contest success function plays as fundamental a role in the theory of contests as does the production function in the theory of the firm, yet beyond the existence of equilibrium few general results are known. This paper seeks to remedy that gap.
A 6-month inhalation toxicology study in Apoe−/− mice demonstrates substantially lower effects of e-vapor aerosol compared with cigarette smoke in the respiratory tract
Authors: Wong Ee Tsin , Szostak Justyna , Titz Bjoern , Lee Tom , Wong Sin Kei , Lavrynenko Oksana , Merg Celine , Corciulo Maica , Simicevic Jovan , Auberson Mehdi , Peric Dariusz , Dulize Remi , Bornand David , Loh Guo Jie , Lee Kyeonghee Monica , Zhang Jingjie , Miller John H. , Schlage Walter K. , Guedj Emmanuel , Schneider Thomas , Phillips Blaine , Leroy Patrice , Choukrallah Mohamed Amin , Sierro Nicolas , Buettner Ansgar , Xiang Yang , Kuczaj Arkadiusz , Ivanov Nikolai V. , Luettich Karsta , Vanscheeuwijck Patrick , Peitsch Manuel C. , Hoeng Julia
Published: May 2021

Cigarette smoking is the major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Considerable attention has been paid to the reduced harm potential of nicotine-containing inhalable products such as electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). We investigated the effects of mainstream cigarette smoke (CS) and e-vapor aerosols (containing nicotine and flavor) generated by a capillary aerosol generator on emphysematous changes, lung function, and molecular alterations in the respiratory system of female Apoe−/− mice. Mice were exposed daily (3 h/day, 5 days/week) for 6 months to aerosols from three different e-vapor formulations—(1) carrier (propylene glycol and vegetable glycerol), (2) base (carrier and nicotine), or (3) test (base and flavor)—or to CS from 3R4F reference cigarettes. The CS and base/test aerosol concentrations were matched at 35 µg nicotine/L. CS exposure, but not e-vapor exposure, led to impairment of lung function (pressure–volume loop area, A and K parameters, quasi-static elastance and compliance) and caused marked lung inflammation and emphysematous changes, which were confirmed histopathologically and morphometrically. CS exposure caused lung transcriptome (activation of oxidative stress and inflammatory responses), lipidome, and proteome dysregulation and changes in DNA methylation; in contrast, these effects were substantially reduced in response to the e-vapor aerosol exposure. Compared with sham, aerosol exposure (carrier, base, and test) caused a slight impact on lung inflammation and epithelia irritation. Our results demonstrated that, in comparison with CS, e-vapor aerosols induced substantially lower biological and pathological changes in the respiratory tract associated with chronic inflammation and emphysema.
Neural Network Identifiability for a Family of Sigmoidal Nonlinearities
Authors: Vlačić Verner , Bölcskei Helmut
Published: May 2021

This paper addresses the following question of neural network identifiability: Does the input–output map realized by a feed-forward neural network with respect to a given nonlinearity uniquely specify the network architecture, weights, and biases? The existing literature on the subject (Sussman in Neural Netw 5(4):589–593, 1992; Albertini et al. in Artificial neural networks for speech and vision, 1993; Fefferman in Rev Mat Iberoam 10(3):507–555, 1994) suggests that the answer should be yes, up to certain symmetries induced by the nonlinearity, and provided that the networks under consideration satisfy certain “genericity conditions.” The results in Sussman (1992) and Albertini et al. (1993) apply to networks with a single hidden layer and in Fefferman (1994) the networks need to be fully connected. In an effort to answer the identifiability question in greater generality, we derive necessary genericity conditions for the identifiability of neural networks of arbitrary depth and connectivity with an arbitrary nonlinearity. Moreover, we construct a family of nonlinearities for which these genericity conditions are minimal, i.e., both necessary and sufficient. This family is large enough to approximate many commonly encountered nonlinearities to within arbitrary precision in the uniform norm.
Long-term fasting improves lipoprotein-associated atherogenic risk in humans
Authors: Grundler Franziska , Plonné Dietmar , Mesnage Robin , Müller Diethard , Sirtori Cesare R. , Ruscica Massimiliano , Wilhelmi de Toledo Françoise
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Dyslipidemia is a major health concern associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. Long-term fasting (LF) has been shown to improve plasma lipid profile. We performed an in-depth investigation of lipoprotein composition.

Methods

This observational study included 40 volunteers (50% men, aged 32–65 years), who underwent a medically supervised fast of 14 days (250 kcal/day). Changes in lipid and lipoprotein levels, as well as in lipoprotein subclasses and particles, were measured by ultracentrifugation and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) at baseline, and after 7 and 14 fasting days.

Results

The largest changes were found after 14 fasting days. There were significant reductions in triglycerides (TG, − 0.35 ± 0.1 mmol/L), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-TG (− 0.46 ± 0.08 mmol/L), VLDL-cholesterol (VLDL-C, − 0.16 ± 0.03 mmol/L) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-C (− 0.72 ± 0.14 mmol/L). Analysis of LDL subclasses showed a significant decrease in LDL1-C (− 0.16 ± 0.05 mmol/L), LDL2-C (− 0.30 ± 0.06 mmol/L) and LDL3-C (− 0.27 ± 0.05 mmol/L). NMR spectroscopy showed a significant reduction in large VLDL particles (− 5.18 ± 1.26 nmol/L), as well as large (− 244.13 ± 39.45 nmol/L) and small LDL particles (− 38.45 ± 44.04 nmol/L). A significant decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-C (− 0.16 ± 0.04 mmol/L) was observed. By contrast, the concentration in large HDL particles was significantly raised. Apolipoprotein A1 decreased significantly whereas apolipoprotein B, lipoprotein(a), fibrinogen and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein were unchanged.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that LF improves lipoprotein levels and lipoprotein subclasses and ameliorates the lipoprotein-associated atherogenic risk profile, suggesting a reduction in the cardiovascular risk linked to dyslipidemia.

Trial Registration

Study registration number: DRKS-ID: DRKS00010111 Date of registration: 03/06/2016 “retrospectively registered”.
Functional motor phenotypes: to lump or to split?
Authors: Tinazzi Michele , Geroin Christian , Marcuzzo Enrico , Cuoco Sofia , Ceravolo Roberto , Mazzucchi Sonia , Pilotto Andrea , Padovani Alessandro , Romito Luigi Michele , Eleopra Roberto , Zappia Mario , Nicoletti Alessandra , Dallocchio Carlo , Arbasino Carla , Bono Francesco , Magro Giuseppe , Demartini Benedetta , Gambini Orsola , Modugno Nicola , Olivola Enrica , Bonanni Laura , Zanolin Elisabetta , Albanese Alberto , Ferrazzano Gina , De Micco Rosa , Lopiano Leonardo , Calandra-Buonaura Giovanna , Petracca Martina , Esposito Marcello , Pisani Antonio , Manganotti Paolo , Tesolin Lucia , Teatini Francesco , Ercoli Tommaso , Morgante Francesca , Erro Roberto
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Functional motor disorders (FMDs) are usually categorized according to the predominant phenomenology; however, it is unclear whether this phenotypic classification mirrors the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms.

Objective

To compare the characteristics of patients with different FMDs phenotypes and without co-morbid neurological disorders, aiming to answer the question of whether they represent different expressions of the same disorder or reflect distinct entities.

Methods

Consecutive outpatients with a clinically definite diagnosis of FMDs were included in the Italian registry of functional motor disorders (IRFMD), a multicenter data collection platform gathering several clinical and demographic variables. To the aim of the current work, data of patients with isolated FMDs were extracted.

Results

A total of 176 patients were included: 58 with weakness, 40 with tremor, 38 with dystonia, 23 with jerks/facial FMDs, and 17 with gait disorders. Patients with tremor and gait disorders were older than the others. Patients with functional weakness had more commonly an acute onset (87.9%) than patients with tremor and gait disorders, a shorter time lag from symptoms onset and FMDs diagnosis (2.9 ± 3.5 years) than patients with dystonia, and had more frequently associated functional sensory symptoms (51.7%) than patients with tremor, dystonia and gait disorders. Patients with dystonia complained more often of associated pain (47.4%) than patients with tremor. No other differences were noted between groups in terms of other variables including associated functional neurological symptoms, psychiatric comorbidities, and predisposing or precipitating factors.

Conclusions

Our data support the evidence of a large overlap between FMD phenotypes.
Physiological and anatomical responses to drought stress differ between two larch species and their hybrid
Authors: Sasani Nadia , Pâques Luc E. , Boulanger Guillaume , Singh Adya P. , Gierlinger Notburga , Rosner Sabine , Brendel Oliver
Published: May 2021

Key Message

Hybrid saplings were more reactive to soil water deficit than Japanese and European larch. European larch had hydraulically safer wood and anisohydric behavior, Japanese and hybrid larch showed isohydric strategy.

Deciduous larch species could be an alternative to evergreen conifers in reforestation, but little is known about drought sensitivity of their saplings. The effect of an experimental drought on hydraulics and quantitative wood anatomy was tested on saplings of European larch (EL, Larix decidua), Japanese larch (JL, Larix kaempferi) and their hybrid (HL). Across species, biomass, transpiration rate and relative water content were higher in controls than in drought stressed trees, but transpiration efficiency was lower. JL had the highest transpiration efficiency under drought, and EL the lowest, coinciding with slower growth of EL. Wood of EL formed before drought was hydraulically safer as shown by higher wall/lumen ratio and lower pit cavity area. EL neither had a significant increase in transpiration efficiency nor a reduction in transpiration rate under drought, suggesting that the stomata remained open under soil water deficit. HL saplings were the most reactive to water shortage, indicated by intra-annual density fluctuations and a decrease in relative water content of the sapwood. Significant reduction in transpiration by HL suggested a higher stomatal sensitivity, while the same leaf surface area was maintained and radial growth was still similar to its best parent, the JL. The latter showed a significantly lower leaf surface area under drought than controls. EL, with its hydraulically safer wood, followed an anisohydric behavior, while JL and HL revealed an isohydric strategy. Altogether, our results suggest species dependent acclimations to drought stress, whereby HL followed the strategy of JL rather than that of EL.
Depression and ability to work after vestibular schwannoma surgery: a nationwide registry-based matched cohort study on antidepressants, sedatives, and sick leave
Authors: Thurin Erik , Förander Petter , Bartek Jiri , Gulati Sasha , Rydén Isabelle , Smits Anja , Hesselager Göran , Salvesen Øyvind , Jakola Asgeir Store
Published: May 2021

Background

In patients with vestibular schwannomas (VS), tumor control is often achieved, and life expectancy is relatively good. The main risks of surgical treatment are hearing loss and facial nerve function. The occurrence of mood and sleeping disorders in relation to surgery is an important aspect of health that has rarely been studied. Similarly, only limited data exist on the rate of sick leave for patients with VS. In this nationwide registry-based study, we define the use of antidepressants and sedatives and the sick leave pattern before and after VS surgery.

Methods

Adult patients with histopathologically verified VS were identified in the Swedish Brain Tumor Registry (SBTR) and clinical data were linked to relevant national registries after assigning five matched controls to each patient. We studied patterns of dispensed antidepressants and sedative drugs as well as patterns of sick leave compared to respective controls at 2 years before and 2 years following surgery.

Results

We identified 333 patients and 1662 matched controls. The rate of antidepressant use was similar between patients and controls 2 years before surgery (6.0% vs 6.3%) and 2 years after surgery (10.1% vs 7.5%). The rate of sedative use was also similar 2 years before surgery (3.9% vs 4.3%) and 2 years after surgery (4.8% vs 5.3%). The rate of sick leave was similar at baseline between patients and controls, but at 2 years after surgery, 75% of patients vs 88% of controls (p < 0.01) had no registered sick leave. Long-term sick leave after surgery was predicted by use of sedatives (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.38–0.94, p = 0.03), more preoperative sick leave (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.89–0.93, p < 0.001), and new-onset neurological deficits after surgery (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.24–0.76, p = 0.004).

Conclusion

This nationwide study shows no significant differences in the use of antidepressants and sedatives between patients and controls, while the rate of postoperative sick leave was higher in patients than in controls after VS surgery. Our findings underpin the importance of avoiding surgical sequelae and facilitating return to normal professional life.
Effect of early intervention for anxiety on sleep outcomes in adolescents: a randomized trial
Authors: Haugland Bente Storm Mowatt , Hysing Mari , Hoffart Asle , Haaland Åshild Tellefsen , Bjaastad Jon Fauskanger , Wergeland Gro Janne , Baste Valborg
Published: May 2021

The potential effect of early intervention for anxiety on sleep outcomes was examined in a sample of adolescents with anxiety (N = 313, mean 14.0 years, SD = 0.84, 84% girls, 95.7% Norwegians). Participants were randomized to one of three conditions: a brief or a standard-length cognitive-behavioral group-intervention (GCBT), or a waitlist control-group (WL). Interventions were delivered at schools, during school hours. Adolescents with elevated anxiety were recruited by school health services. Questionnaires on self-reported anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and sleep characteristics were administered at pre- and post-intervention, post-waitlist, and at 1-year follow-up. Adolescents reported reduced insomnia (odds ratio (OR) = 0.42, p < 0.001) and shorter sleep onset latency (d = 0.27, p <  0.001) from pre- to post-intervention. For insomnia, this effect was maintained at 1-year follow-up (OR = 0.54, p = 0.020). However, no effect of GCBT on sleep outcomes was found when comparing GCBT and WL. Also, no difference was found in sleep outcomes between brief and standard-length interventions. Adolescents defined as responders (i.e., having improved much or very much on anxiety after GCBT), did not differ from non-responders regarding sleep outcomes. Thus, anxiety-focused CBT, delivered in groups, showed no effect on sleep outcomes. Strategies specifically targeting sleep problems in adolescents should be included in GCBT when delivered as early intervention for adolescents with elevated anxiety.

Trial registry Clinical trial registration: School Based Low-intensity Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Anxious Youth (LIST); http://clinicalrials.gov/; NCT02279251, Date: 11.31. 2014
African Americans, Caribbean Blacks and Depression: Which Biopsychosocial Factors Should Social Workers Focus On? Results from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL)
Authors: Robinson Michael A. , Kim Irang , Mowbray Orion , Disney Lindsey
Published: May 2021

Research suggests that African Americans may be more likely to experience depression, especially severe depression, than other racial or ethnic groups in the United States. Overall there is scant research comparing the relationship between ethnicity and depression among the U.S. Black population. The purpose of this study is to identify the most significant biopsychosocial factors social workers can address in the prevention and treatment of depression in African American and first generations Caribbean Black clients. Data was from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL). Bivariate associations showed that respondents who reported higher self-esteem, lower hopelessness, higher sense of mastery, and lower discrimination showed lower likelihood of having Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The logistic regression model suggested that respondents who have ever had a chronic disease were more likely to report depression than those who have not ever had a chronic disease. Caribbean Blacks were more likely to report depression compared to African Americans. Additionally, respondents who reported higher discrimination scores were more likely to report depression. This study suggests that social workers should embrace the interconnectedness and holistic approach of the biopsychosocial model in their case conceptualizations, prevention strategies, and treatment modalities.