bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk stratification according to diastolic function indices in heart failure patients with mildly reduced or reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Granot Yoav , Topilsky Yan , Sapir Orly , Zahler David , Flint Nir , Havakuk Ofer
Published: March 2023

Aims

The aim of the study is to evaluate the risk of all-cause mortality or heart failure hospitalizations in ambulatory patients with heart failure with reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF or HFmrEF) according to diastolic function indices. Diastolic dysfunction in HF is both common and associated with poor prognosis. However, specific cut-off values of diastolic function parameters for prognostication of hard outcomes in HF have not been conclusively established.

Methods and results

Analysis of full echocardiographic examination of consecutive ambulatory HFrEF and HFmrEF patients seen at a single tertiary hospital between 2010 and 2021 was retrospectively done. Data on all-cause mortality or heart failure hospitalizations were obtained from the electronic medical records and national mortality registry. Patients with > moderate left heart valvular dysfunction were excluded from the study. The final cohort included 4717 patients (75% males, median age 70 years interquartile range 61.3–78.4). After adjusting for clinical or echocardiographic variables, increased rates of mortality or HF hospitalizations were found when E/e′>10, left atrial volume index (LAVI) > 40 mL/m2, E/A ratio < 0.6, deceleration time (DT) < 180 ms, peak E-wave velocity > 0.78 m/s, and sPAP > 26 mmHg. However, no significant difference in outcomes between near-normal and normal values of E/e′ (< 8 compared with 8–10) or LAVI (≤34 mL/m2 compared with LAVI 34–40 mL/m2) was found.

Conclusion

In patients with HFmrEF and HFrEF, slightly abnormal diastolic indices were found to be associated with worse outcomes.

We have demonstrated that in patients with heart failure with reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF or HFmrEF), near-normal diastolic indices are associated with worse outcomes with the following cut-off values: max E-wave velocity > 0.78 m/s, E/e′ ratio > 10, a LAVi > 40 mL/m2, DT > 180, E/A between 0.6 and 1.4, and a sPAP > 26 mmHg. Further research is needed to establish these suggested cut-off values.
Key quality indicators in colonoscopy
Authors: Rex Douglas K
Published: March 2023

Many quality indicators have been proposed for colonoscopy, but most colonoscopists and endoscopy groups focus on measuring the adenoma detection rate and the cecal intubation rate. Use of proper screening and surveillance intervals is another accepted key indicator but it is seldom evaluated in clinical practice. Bowel preparation efficacy and polyp resection skills are areas that are emerging as potential key or priority indicators. This review summarizes and provides an update on key performance indicators for colonoscopy quality.
De novoAssembly and Comparative Analyses of Mitochondrial Genomes in Piperales
Authors: Yu Runxian , Chen Xudong , Long Lingjie , Jost Matthias , Zhao Ran , Liu Lumei , Mower Jeffrey P , dePamphilis Claude W , Wanke Stefan , Jiao Yuannian
Published: March 2023

The mitochondrial genome of Liriodendron tulipifera exhibits many ancestral angiosperm features and a remarkably slow evolutionary rate, while mitochondrial genomes of other magnoliids remain yet to be characterized. We assembled nine new mitochondrial genomes, representing all genera of perianth-bearing Piperales, as well as for a member of the sister clade: three complete or nearly complete mitochondrial genomes from Aristolochiaceae and six additional draft assemblies including Thottea, Asaraceae, Lactoridaceae, and Hydnoraceae. For comparative purpose, a complete mitochondrial genome was assembled for Saururus, a member of the perianth-less Piperales. The average number of short repeats (50–99 bp) was much larger in genus Aristolochia than in other angiosperm mitochondrial genomes, and approximately 30% of repeats (<350 bp) were found to have the capacity to mediate recombination. We found mitochondrial genomes in perianth-bearing Piperales comprising conserved repertories of protein-coding genes and rRNAs but variable copy numbers of tRNA genes. We identified several shifts from cis- to trans-splicing of the Group II introns of nad1i728, cox2i373, and nad7i209. Two short regions of the cox1 and atp8 genes were likely derived from independent horizontal gene transfer events in perianth-bearing Piperales. We found biased enrichment of specific substitution types in different lineages of magnoliids and the Aristolochiaceae family showed the highest ratio of A:T > T:A substitutions of all other investigated angiosperm groups. Our study reports the first mitochondrial genomes for Piperales and uses this new information for a better understanding of the evolutionary patterns of magnoliids and angiosperms in general.
Barriers and Facilitators to Home- and Community-Based Services Access for Persons With Dementia and Their Caregivers
Authors: Waymouth Molly , Siconolfi Daniel , Friedman Esther M , Saliba Debra , Ahluwalia Sangeeta C , Shih Regina A
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The United States has seen increasing shifts toward home- and community-based services (HCBS) in place of institutional care for long-term services and supports. However, research has neglected to assess whether these shifts have improved access to HCBS for persons with dementia. This paper identifies HCBS access barriers and facilitators, and discusses how barriers contribute to disparities for persons with dementia living in rural areas and exacerbate disparities for minoritized populations.

Methods

We analyzed qualitative data from 35 in-depth interviews. Interviews were held with stakeholders in the HCBS ecosystem, including Medicaid administrators, advocates for persons with dementia and caregivers, and HCBS providers.

Results

Barriers to HCBS access for persons with dementia range from community and infrastructure barriers (e.g., clinicians and cultural differences), to interpersonal and individual-level barriers (e.g., caregivers, awareness, and attitudes). These barriers affect the health and quality of life for persons with dementia and may affect whether individuals can remain in their home or community. Facilitators included a range of more comprehensive and dementia-attuned practices and services in health care, technology, recognition and support for family caregivers, and culturally competent and linguistically accessible education and services.

Discussion

System refinements, such as incentivizing cognitive screening, can improve detection and increase access to HCBS. Disparities in HCBS access experienced by minoritized persons with dementia may be addressed through culturally competent awareness campaigns and policies that recognize the necessity of familial caregivers in supporting persons with dementia. These findings can inform efforts to ensure more equitable access to HCBS, improve dementia competence, and reduce disparities.
QuantifyingP-wave secondary microseisms events: a comparison of observed and modelled backprojection
Authors: Zhang R , Boué P , Campillo M , Ma J
Published: March 2023

Secondary microseisms are caused by nonlinear interactions between ocean waves of approximately equal wavelengths and opposite propagation directions. This seismic forcing is evaluated using ocean sea-state hindcast data and further modulated by the bathymetric effect. The numerical ocean model provides a global activity representation of the secondary microseisms, from which we isolate major events. We backprojected teleseismic P-wave propagation into the Earth's mantle to validate these events as effective seismic sources. The ocean model provides spectral amplitude information for modelling microseisms generated seismic wavefield. A comparison of the backprojection for P and PP phases from observed and synthetic microseisms forcing indicates high reliability in the ocean model, at least for major sources. A combination of P and PP phases detected across a global network of stations enables global ocean coverage. We improve backprojection images even further by introducing a two-step stacking for the P phase to address the problem of unbalanced station distribution. Thresholds of microseisms events forces valuable for seismic imaging are determined by comparing backprojections and ocean models for the years 2015 and 2020. Finally, we extracted a catalogue of microseisms events every 3-hr from 1994 to 2020 from the ocean hindcast data set. This catalogue is an intriguing resource for future applications of interferometric imaging at large scale.
Designing a Stress and Anxiety Support Tool to Help Young Adults with Autism in Daily Living
Authors: Espinosa Marcela A , Escobedo Lizbeth
Published: March 2023

Individuals with autism may experience higher stress and anxiety levels for longer periods than their neurotypical peers. Traditional techniques to provide stress relief and anxiety management include support, which reminds people of how to face stressful situations. Some technological proposals supporting the user include strategies for detecting and monitoring stress levels. In this research, we conducted an iterative user-centered study aiming to understand how young adults with autism deal with stress in real-life situations. We proposed a set of five design principles that will serve as guidelines to develop assistive anxiety management technology for individuals with autism. We then developed a set of low-fi prototypes and selected SATORI, a support tool composed of three interfaces, to help young adults with autism autonomously manage the anxiety caused by stressful situations in their daily life. We evaluated our proposed design principles using SATORI with eight young adults with autism. The results show a positive perception of the design principles on what SATORI is based on, as participants perceived that SATORI could help them in their daily life to manage stress and channel anxiety.
Comparative effectiveness of β-lactams for empirical treatment of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Buis D T P , van der Vaart T W , Prins J M , van der Meer J T M , Bonten M J M , Sieswerda E , van Werkhoven C H , Sigaloff K C E
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Standard once-daily dosing of ceftriaxone may not lead to adequate antibiotic exposure in all cases of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB). Therefore, we compared clinical effectiveness of empirical antibiotic treatment with flucloxacillin, cefuroxime and ceftriaxone in adult patients with MSSA bacteraemia

Methods

We analysed data from the Improved Diagnostic Strategies in Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (IDISA) study, a multicentre prospective cohort study of adult patients with MSSA bacteraemia. Duration of bacteraemia and 30 day SAB-related mortality were compared between the three groups using multivariable mixed-effects Cox regression analyses.

Results

In total, 268 patients with MSSA bacteraemia were included in the analyses. Median duration of empirical antibiotic therapy was 3 (IQR 2–3) days in the total study population. Median duration of bacteraemia was 1.0 (IQR 1.0–3.0) day in the flucloxacillin, cefuroxime and ceftriaxone groups. In multivariable analyses, neither cefuroxime nor ceftriaxone were associated with increased duration of bacteraemia (respectively HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.73–1.60 and HR 1.22, 95% CI 0.88–1.71) compared with flucloxacillin, nor were the cephalosporins associated with higher 30 day SAB-related mortality (respectively, subdistribution HR (sHR) 1.37, 95% CI 0.42–4.52 and sHR 1.93, 95% CI 0.67–5.60).

Conclusions

In this study, we could not demonstrate a difference in duration of bacteraemia and 30 day SAB-related mortality between patients with SAB empirically treated with flucloxacillin, cefuroxime or ceftriaxone. Since sample size was limited, it is possible the study was underpowered to find a clinically relevant effect.
Calcium-binding motif-mediated binding of redundant calcium offers a chimeolysin enhanced bactericidal activity and extended host range under physiological conditions
Authors: Jia Minghui , Zhou Wanli , Luo Dehua , Xue Heng , Hu Fen , Zhang Xiaomei , Zhao Zirong , Zhong Mingyue , Li Xinfeng , He Jin , Wei Hongping , Yang Hang
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Calcium-binding motifs are shared by multiple bacteriophage lysins; however, the influence of calcium on the enzymatic activity and host range of these enzymes is still not understood. To address this, ClyF, a chimeric lysin with a putative calcium-binding motif, was used as a model for in vitro and in vivo investigations.

Methods

The concentration of calcium bound to ClyF was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. The influence of calcium on the structure, activity and host range of ClyF was assessed by circular dichroism and time–kill assays. The bactericidal activity of ClyF was evaluated in various sera and a mouse model of Streptococcus agalactiae bacteraemia.

Results

ClyF has a highly negatively charged surface around the calcium-binding motif that can bind extra calcium, thereby increasing the avidity of ClyF for the negatively charged bacterial cell wall. In line with this, ClyF exhibited significantly enhanced staphylolytic and streptolytic activity in various sera containing physiological calcium, including human serum, heat-inactivated human serum, mouse serum and rabbit serum. In a mouse model of S. agalactiae bacteraemia, intraperitoneal administration of a single dose of 25 μg/mouse ClyF fully protected the mice from lethal infection.

Conclusions

The present data collectively showed that physiological calcium improves the bactericidal activity and host range of ClyF, making it a promising candidate for the treatment of infections caused by multiple staphylococci and streptococci.
Sulfur metabolism inRhodococcusspecies and their application in desulfurization of fossil fuels
Authors: Hou Jie , Deng Hong-Kuan , Liu Zi-Xin , Xu Ping , Wang Li-Juan
Published: March 2023

Organosulfur compounds in fossil fuels have been a major concern in the process of achieving zero-sulfur fuel production. Biodesulfurization (BDS) is an environmentally friendly strategy for the removal of refractory organosulfur compounds from fossil fuels. Even though researchers are committed to engineering the desulfurization-specific pathway for improving BDS efficiency, the industrial application of BDS is still difficult. Recently, the sulfur metabolism of Rhodococcus has begun to attract attention due to its influences on the BDS process. In this review, we introduce the sulfur metabolism in Rhodococcus, including sulfur absorption, reduction, and assimilation; and summarize desulfurization in Rhodococcus, including the desulfurization mechanism, the regulation mechanism of the 4S pathway, and the strategies of optimizing the 4S pathway to improve BDS efficiency. In particular, the influence of sulfur metabolism on BDS efficiency is discussed. In addition, we consider the latest genetic engineering strategies in Rhodococcus. An improved understanding of the relationship between sulfur metabolism and desulfurization will enable the industrial application of BDS.
Effects of Low Doses of a Novel dsRNA-based Biopesticide (Calantha) on the Colorado Potato Beetle
Authors: Pallis Samuel , Alyokhin Andrei , Manley Brian , Rodrigues Thais , Barnes Ethann , Narva Kenneth
Published: March 2023

The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a destructive pest of the cultivated potato, Solanum tuberosum. Members of this species are well-suited to agricultural habitats because of a suite of physiological adaptations and their ability to evolve resistance to multiple insecticides. Recently, a novel double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) insecticide (Calantha, active ingredient ledprona) has been demonstrated as an effective tool to manage Colorado potato beetle populations through RNA interference (RNAi). Previous studies have demonstrated the lethality of the high doses of ledprona but had not assessed possible effects of low doses that may happen due to product degradation in the environment, incomplete spray coverage, and foliage growth. Exposure of fourth instar larvae to low concentrations of ledprona interfered with their pupation. Exposure of adults significantly reduced their mobility after seven days, as well as their fertility. Reproductive effects were stronger in females, especially when exposed before reaching sexual maturity. The observed effects of low doses of ledprona may aid in the overall management of Colorado potato beetles by reducing the size of resident populations, inhibiting beetle movement within and between fields, and reducing the population growth rate.
Workers’ Bargaining Power and the Phillips Curve: A Micro–Macro Analysis
Authors: Lombardi Marco J , Riggi Marianna , Viviano Eliana
Published: March 2023

We use a general equilibrium model to show that a decrease in workers’ bargaining power amplifies the contribution to the output gap of adjustments along the extensive versus intensive margin of labour utilization. Under standard assumptions on the disutility of labour, this mechanism reduces the cyclical movements of inflation relative to those of the output gap. Micro-level evidence, based on a survey of Italian firms, provides support to the relationship between bargaining power and adjustments along the extensive margin versus the intensive one, as well as to attenuated price response when firms adjust labour input mainly through the extensive margin. A Bayesian estimation using Italian aggregate data for the samples 1970–1990 and 1991–2014 confirms that the decline in workers’ bargaining power has weakened the inflation–output gap relationship.
A tale of two paths: The evolution of mitochondrial recombination in bivalves with doubly uniparental inheritance
Authors: Smith Chase H , Pinto Brendan J , Kirkpatrick Mark , Hillis David M , Pfeiffer John M , Havird Justin C
Published: March 2023

In most animals, mitochondrial DNA is strictly maternally inherited and non-recombining. One exception to this pattern is called doubly uniparental inheritance (DUI), a phenomenon involving the independent transmission of female and male mitochondrial genomes. DUI is known only from the molluskan class Bivalvia. The phylogenetic distribution of male-transmitted mitochondrial DNA (M mtDNA) in bivalves is consistent with several evolutionary scenarios, including multiple independent gains, losses, and varying degrees of recombination with female-transmitted mitochondrial DNA (F mtDNA). In this study, we use phylogenetic methods to test M mtDNA origination hypotheses and infer the prevalence of mitochondrial recombination in bivalves with DUI. Phylogenetic modeling using site concordance factors supported a single origin of M mtDNA in bivalves coupled with recombination acting over long evolutionary timescales. Ongoing mitochondrial recombination is present in Mytilida and Venerida, which results in a pattern of concerted evolution of F mtDNA and M mtDNA. Mitochondrial recombination could be favored to offset the deleterious effects of asexual inheritance and maintain mitonuclear compatibility across tissues. Cardiida and Unionida have gone without recent recombination, possibly due to an extension of the COX2 gene in male mitochondrial DNA. The loss of recombination could be connected to the role of M mtDNA in sex determination or sexual development. Our results support that recombination events may occur throughout the mitochondrial genomes of DUI species. Future investigations may reveal more complex patterns of inheritance of recombinants, which could explain the retention of signal for a single origination of M mtDNA in protein-coding genes.
Trocar-site hernia repair after laparoscopic surgery: a case report study
Authors: Bangeas Petros , Hatzikomnitsa Paraskevi , Karatzia Despoina , Mauromatidis Savvas , Papadopoulos Vasileios
Published: March 2023

Tracer site hernias (TSHs) are extremely uncommon. There have been only a few cases reported in the literature. Here we report a case of TSH after umbilicus laparoscopic hernia repair procedure. Diagnosis was based on patient symptoms and computed tomography. Patient underwent exploratory laparoscopy followed by laparoscopic hernia repair with mesh. We also provide a mini review of the literature in order to highlight that although rare, this pathology should be included in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen.
Breast sensorisexual function: a novel patient-reported outcome measure of sexual sensory functions of the breast
Authors: Abramsohn Emily M , Pinkerton El A , Wroblewski Kristen , Anitescu Magdalena , Flynn Kathryn E , Hazen Alexes , Schumm Phil , Lindau Stacy Tessler
Published: March 2023

Background

A validated measure assessing sexual sensory functions of the breast is needed to optimize sexual and other health outcomes after breast procedures.

Aim

To describe the development of a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) to assess breast sensorisexual function (BSF).

Methods

We applied the PROMIS standards (Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System) for measure development and evaluation of validity. An initial conceptual model of BSF was developed with patients and experts. A literature review yielded a pool of 117 candidate items that underwent cognitive testing and iteration. Forty-eight items were administered to an ethnically diverse, national panel–based sample of sexually active women with breast cancer (n = 350) or without (n = 300). Psychometric analyses were performed.

Outcomes

The main outcome was BSF, a measure that assesses affective (satisfaction, pleasure, importance, pain, discomfort) and functional (touch, pressure, thermoreception, nipple erection) sensorisexual domains.

Results

A bifactor model fit to 6 domains—excluding 2 domains with only 2 items each and 2 pain-related domains—revealed a single general factor representing BSF that may be adequately measured by the average of the items. This factor, with higher values denoting better function and with the standard deviation set to 1, was highest among women without breast cancer (mean, 0.24), intermediate among women with breast cancer but not bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction (−0.01), and lowest among those with bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction (−0.56). Between women with and without breast cancer, the BSF general factor accounted for 40%, 49%, and 100% of the difference in arousal, ability to orgasm, and sexual satisfaction, respectively. Items in each of 8 domains demonstrated unidimensionality (ie, they measured 1 underlying BSF trait) and high Cronbach’s alphas for the entire sample (0.77-0.93) and the cancer group (0.71-0.95). Correlations with sexual function, health, and quality of life were positive for the BSF general factor and mostly negative for the pain domains.

Clinical Implications

The BSF PROM can be used to assess the impact of breast surgery or other procedures on the sexual sensory functions of the breast in women with and without breast cancer.

Strengths and Limitations

The BSF PROM was developed by using evidence-based standards, and it applies to sexually active women with and without breast cancer. Generalizability to sexually inactive women and other women warrants further study.

Conclusion

The BSF PROM is a measure of women’s breast sensorisexual function with evidence of validity among women affected and unaffected by breast cancer.
Interprofessional Education in NAACLS MLT and MLS Programs: Results of a National Survey
Authors: Bamfield-Cummings Shafisha , Bufkin Kendra , Jones Stephanie , Bayhaghi Giti , Kashyap Hari , De Leo Gianluca
Published: March 2023

Background

Interprofessional education is essential for students enrolled in health care professional programs. 

Objectives

We assessed the attitudes towards and the beliefs about interprofessional education (IPE) among program directors of medical laboratory science (MLS) and medical laboratory technician (MLT) programs accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). We also investigated the inclusion of IPE in the curricula of such programs.

Methods

We emailed the link to an anonymous 22-item cross-sectional survey to 468 program directors and tabulated the responses.

Results

Program directors who support the need to include IPE within the curricula of MLT and MLS programs showed a generally positive attitude towards IPE. The beliefs about IPE among our respondents were not homogeneous. Program directors who have not yet implemented IPE in the curriculum may not have had an opportunity to experience the practical benefits of IPE.

Conclusion

Although barriers to IPE implementation exist, half of the respondents reported having already implemented IPE within their curricula.
Species and antifungal susceptibility profile of agents causing vulvovaginal candidiasis in a military population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Trajano Débora Thaís Moreira , Melhem Márcia de Souza Carvalho , Takahashi Juliana Possatto Fernandes , Bonfietti Lucas Xavier , de Araújo Miriam Randó , Corrêa Viviane Barbosa , Araújo Karina Basseto de Oliveira , Barnabé Viviani , Fernandes Carolina Gonçalves
Published: March 2023

Military women on active duty are exposed to constant physical and mental demands, which may predispose them to some infection risks, including vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), a pathology considered a global public health problem. To monitor the prevalent and emerging pathogens in VVC, this study aimed to evaluate the distribution of yeast species and their in vitro antifungal susceptibility profile. We studied 104 vaginal yeast specimens obtained during routine clinical examinations. The population was attended at the Medical Center of the Military Police, São Paulo, Brazil, and was divided into two groups: infected patients (VVC) and colonised patients. Species were identified by phenotypic and proteomic methods (MALDI-TOF MS) and susceptibility to eight antifungal drugs, including azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins, was determined using microdilution broth. Candida albicans stricto sensu was found to be the most frequently isolated species (55%), but we observed a considerable rate of other Candida species isolates (30%), including Candida orthopsilosis stricto sensu only in the infected group. There were also other rare genera such as Rhodotorula, Yarrowia, and Trichosporon (15%), of which Rhodotorula mucilaginosa was the most prevalent in both groups. Fluconazole and voriconazole had the highest activity against all species in both groups. Candida parapsilosis was the most susceptible species, except for amphotericin-B in the infected group. Of note, we observed unusual resistance in C. albicans. Our results have allowed us to compile an epidemiological database on the etiology of VVC to support the empirical treatment and improve the health care of military women.
A semi-analytic study of self-interacting dark-matter haloes with baryons
Authors: Jiang Fangzhou , Benson Andrew , Hopkins Philip F , Slone Oren , Lisanti Mariangela , Kaplinghat Manoj , Peter Annika H G , Zeng Zhichao Carton , Du Xiaolong , Yang Shengqi , Shen Xuejian
Published: March 2023

We combine the isothermal Jeans model and the model of adiabatic halo contraction into a semi-analytic procedure for computing the density profile of self-interacting dark-matter (SIDM) haloes with the gravitational influence from the inhabitant galaxies. The model agrees well with cosmological SIDM simulations over the entire core-forming stage up to the onset of gravothermal core-collapse. Using this model, we show that the halo response to baryons is more diverse in SIDM than in CDM and depends sensitively on galaxy size, a desirable feature in the context of the structural diversity of bright dwarfs. The fast speed of the method facilitates analyses that would be challenging for numerical simulations – notably, we quantify the SIDM halo response as functions of the baryonic properties, on a fine mesh grid spanned by the baryon-to-total-mass ratio, Mb/Mvir, and galaxy compactness, r1/2/Rvir; we show with high statistical precision that for typical Milky-Way-like systems, the SIDM profiles are similar to their CDM counterparts; and we delineate the regime of core-collapse in the Mb/Mvir − r1/2/Rvir space, for a given cross section and concentration. Finally, we compare the isothermal Jeans model with the more sophisticated gravothermal fluid model, and show that the former yields faster core formation and agrees better with cosmological simulations. We attribute the difference to whether the target CDM halo is used as a boundary condition or as the initial condition for the gravothermal evolution, and thus comment on possible improvements of the fluid model. We have made our model publicly available at https://github.com/JiangFangzhou/SIDM.
Observations of two superfast rotator NEAs: 2021 NY1 and 2022 AB
Authors: Licandro Javier , Popescu Marcel , Tatsumi Eri , Alarcon Miguel R , Serra-Ricart Miquel , Medeiros Hissa , Morate David , Tinaut-Ruano Fernando , de León Julia
Published: March 2023

In the framework of the visible NEAs observations survey (ViNOS) that uses several telescopes at the Canary Islands observatories since 2018, we observed two superfast rotator NEAs, 2021 NY1 and 2022 AB. We obtained photometry and spectrophotometry of both targets and visible spectroscopy of 2022 AB. Light curves of 2021 NY1 obtained in four different nights between 2021 September 30 and 2021 October 16 return a rotation period P = 13.3449 ± 0.0013 minutes and a light curve amplitude A = 1.00 mag. We found that 2021 NY1 is a very elongated superfast rotator with an axis ratio a/b ≥ 3.6. We also report colours (g − r) = 0.664 ± 0.013, (r − i) = 0.186 ± 0.013, and (i − zs) = −0.117 ± 0.012 mag. These are compatible with an S-type asteroid. The light curves of 2022 AB obtained on 2021 January 5 and 2021 January 8 show a rotation period P = 3.0304 ± 0.0008 min, with amplitudes A = 0.52 and A = 0.54 mag. 2022 AB is also an elongated object with axis ratio a/b ≥ 1.6. The obtained colours are (g − r) = 0.400 ± 0.017, (r − i) = 0.133 ± 0.017, and (i − zs) = 0.093 ± 0.016. These colours are similar to those of the X-types, but with an unusually high (g − r) value. Spectra obtained on 2022 January 12 and 2022 January 14 are consistent with the reported colours. The spectral upturn over the 0.4 - 0.6 $\mu \mathrm{m}$ region of 2022 AB does not fit with any known asteroid taxonomical class or meteorite spectrum, confirming its unusual surface properties.
Astrochemically relevant H-atom-abstraction and H-atom-addition reactions connecting fulminic acid (HCNO) and formaldoxime (H2CNOH)
Authors: Keresztes Barbara , Góbi Sándor , Csonka István Pál , Ragupathy Gopi , Bazsó Gábor , Tarczay György
Published: March 2023

While fulminic acid (HCNO) is a well-known interstellar molecule, its partially hydrogenated form, formaldoxime (H2CNOH), has not been detected yet in the interstellar medium (ISM). A possible reason for the non-detection of H2CNOH can be that in the presence of H atoms the quasi-equilibrium between these species is shifted towards HCNO. To support this hypothesis, the H-atom-abstraction and H-atom-addition reactions of HCNO and H2CNOH were investigated in solid para-H2 matrix at 3.1 K. The reactions were followed by IR spectroscopy. The experiments proved that both the H-atom-addition reaction to HCNO and the H-atom-abstraction reaction from H2CNOH proceed at low temperatures, and these reactions yield H2CNO radical. In addition, H-atom-addition reaction can also take place with H2CNOH, leading to the formation of H3CNOH radical. Both H2CNO and H3CNOH radicals can react with H atoms, either in a H-atom-addition reaction or in a H-atom-abstraction reaction. Although all of these reactions are barrierless, experimentally the H-atom-addition reactions were not observed, revealing that the H-atom-abstraction reactions of these radicals are more effective. Therefore, in the case of a quasi-equilibrium condition, the abundance of H2CNOH in the ISM is expected to be lower than that of HCNO. Furthermore, the results also indicate that the H-atom-addition and H-atom-abstraction reactions between H2CNOH and HCNO can act as catalytic cycles for interstellar H2 formation.
Detecting and characterizing pulsar haloes with the Cherenkov telescope array
Authors: Eckner Christopher , Vodeb Veronika , Martin Pierrick , Zaharijas Gabrijela , Calore Francesca
Published: March 2023

The recently identified source class of pulsar haloes may be numerous and bright enough in the TeV energy range to constitute a large fraction of the sources that will be observed with the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA). In this work, we quantify the prospects for detecting and characterizing pulsar haloes in observations of the projected Galactic Plane Survey (GPS), using a simple phenomenological diffusion model for individual pulsar haloes and their population in the Milky Way. Our ability to uncover pulsar haloes and constrain their main physical parameters in the CTA GPS is assessed in the framework of a full spatial-spectral likelihood analysis of simulated survey observations, using the most recent estimates for the instrument response function and prototypes for the science tools. For a model setup representative of the halo around Geminga, we find that about three hundred objects could give rise to detectable emission in the GPS survey. Yet, only a third of them could be identified through their energy-dependent morphology, and only one-tenth of them would allow the derivation of strong constraints on key physical parameters like the magnitude or extent of suppressed diffusion around the pulsar. We also provide a list of known pulsars that could be hosting a detectable (Geminga-like) halo in the GPS and assess the robustness of our findings against several systematic uncertainties.
Surface structure of 45 Hercules: an otherwise unremarkable Ap star with a surprisingly weak magnetic field
Authors: Kochukhov O , Gürsoytrak Mutlay H , Amarsi A M , Petit P , Mutlay I , Gürol B
Published: March 2023

The origin of magnetic fields and their role in chemical spot formation on magnetic Ap stars is currently not understood. Here, we contribute to solving this problem with a detailed observational characterization of the surface structure of 45 Her, a weak-field Ap star. We find this object to be a long-period, single-lined spectroscopic binary and determine the binary orbit as well as fundamental and atmospheric parameters of the primary. We study magnetic field topology and chemical spot distribution of 45 Her with the help of the Zeeman Doppler imaging technique. Magnetic mapping reveals the stellar surface field to have a distorted dipolar topology with a surface-averaged field strength of 77 G and a dipolar component strength of 119 G – confirming it as one of the weakest well-characterized Ap-star fields known. Despite its feeble magnetic field, 45 Her shows surface chemical inhomogeneities with abundance contrasts of up to 6 dex. Of the four chemical elements studied, O concentrates at the magnetic equator, whereas Ti, Cr, and Fe avoid this region. Apart from this trend, the positions of Fe-peak element spots show no apparent correlation with the magnetic field geometry. No signs of surface differential rotation or temporal evolution of chemical spots on the time-scale of several years were detected. Our findings demonstrate that chemical spot formation does not require strong magnetic fields to proceed and that both the stellar structure and the global field itself remain stable for sub-100 G field strengths contrary to theoretical predictions.
Vaccination Coverage and Risk Factors Associated With Incomplete Vaccination Among Children in Cambodia, Madagascar, and Senegal
Authors: Verrier Florian , de Lauzanne Agathe , Diouf Jean-Baptiste Niokhhor , Zo Andrianirina Zafitsara , Ramblière Lison , Herindrainy Perlinot , Sarr Fatoumata Diene , Sok Touch , Vray Muriel , Collard Jean-Marc , Borand Laurence , Kermorvant-Duchemin Elsa , Delarocque-Astagneau Elisabeth , Guillemot Didier , Huynh Bich-Tram ,   for the Bacterial Infections and Antibiotic-Resistant Diseases Among Young Children in Low-Income Countries (BIRDY) Study Group, Randriamamonjiarison Aina Nirina , Volahasina Tanjona Antsa , Rasoanaivo Fanjalalaina , Rakotoarimanana Feno Manitra Jacob , Raheliarivao Tanjona Bodonirina , Randrianirina Frédérique , Chon Thida , Goyet Sophie , Kerleguer Alexandra , Ngo Véronique , Lach Siyin , Long Pring , Tarantola Arnaud , Diatta Marguerite , Faye Joseph , Seck Abdoulaye , Padget Michael , Abdou Armiya Youssouf , Garin Benoit
Published: March 2023

Background

Vaccination reduces mortality from infectious disease, which is the leading cause of death in children under 5 and bears a particularly high burden in low- and middle-income countries. The Global Vaccine Action Plan (2011–2020) has set a target of 90% vaccine coverage for all vaccines included in national immunization programs by 2020. The objectives of this study were to estimate vaccine coverage among children in Madagascar, Cambodia, and Senegal and to identify the risk factors associated with incomplete vaccination.

Methods

Using data from a community-based prospective cohort that included all newborn of some areas from 2012 to 2018 in these 3 countries, vaccine coverage was estimated for BCG, hepatitis B, oral polio, pentavalent (targeting diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b), and measles vaccines. Risk factor analysis was performed with logistic regression models to identify correlates of incomplete vaccination.

Results

A total of 3606 children were followed up, and vaccine coverage was below the 90% threshold for most vaccines in all countries. Coverage was higher for vaccines recommended at birth and at 6 weeks, while a decrease in coverage for subsequent doses was observed for vaccines requiring several doses (23–47 points). Low birth weight (<2500 g) was an important risk factor for nonvaccination for vaccines recommended at birth in all 3 countries (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval] ranging from 1.93 [1.11–3.38] to 4.28 [1.85–9.37]).

Conclusions

Vaccine coverage for common childhood vaccines was lower than World Health Organization recommendations, and multidisciplinary approaches may help to improve vaccine coverage and timeliness.
Non-canonical amino acids as a tool for the thermal stabilization of enzymes
Authors: Lugtenburg Tim , Gran-Scheuch Alejandro , Drienovská Ivana
Published: March 2023

Biocatalysis has become a powerful alternative for green chemistry. Expanding the range of amino acids used in protein biosynthesis can improve industrially appealing properties such as enantioselectivity, activity and stability. This review will specifically delve into the thermal stability improvements that non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) can confer to enzymes. Methods to achieve this end, such as the use of halogenated ncAAs, selective immobilization and rational design, will be discussed. Additionally, specific enzyme design considerations using ncAAs are discussed along with the benefits and limitations of the various approaches available to enhance the thermal stability of enzymes.
Diagnostic Test Accuracy of Provocative Maneuvers for the Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dabbagh Armaghan , MacDermid Joy C , Yong Joshua , Packham Tara L , Grewal Ruby , Boutsikari Eleni C
Published: March 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to summarize and evaluate the research on the accuracy of provocative maneuvers to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods

The MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched, and studies that assessed the diagnostic accuracy of at least 1 provocative test for CTS were selected. Study characteristics and data about the diagnostic accuracy of the provocative tests for CTS were extracted. A random-effects meta-analysis of the sensitivity (Sn) and specificity (Sp) of the Phalen test and Tinel sign was conducted. The risk of bias (ROB) was rated using the QUADAS-2 tool.

Results

Thirty-one studies that assessed 12 provocative maneuvers were included. The Phalen test and the Tinel sign were the 2 most assessed tests (in 22 and 20 studies, respectively). The ROB was unclear or low in 20 studies, and at least 1 item was rated as having high ROB in 11 studies. Based on a meta-analysis of 7 studies (604 patients), the Phalen test had a pooled Sn of 0.57 (95% CI = 0.44–0.68; range = 0.12–0.92) and a pooled Sp of 0.67 (95% CI = 0.52–0.79; range = 0.30–0.95). For the Tinel sign (7 studies, 748 patients), the pooled Sn was 0.45 (95% CI = 0.34–0.57; range = 0.17–0.97) and the pooled Sp was 0.78 (95% CI = 0.60–0.89; range = 0.40–0.92). Other provocative maneuvers were less frequently studied and had conflicting diagnostic accuracies.

Conclusion

Meta-analyses are imprecise but suggest that the Phalen test has moderate Sn and Sp, whereas the Tinel test has low Sn and high Sp. Clinicians should combine provocative maneuvers with sensorimotor tests, hand diagrams, and diagnostic questionnaires to achieve better overall diagnostic accuracy rather than relying on individual clinical tests.

Impact

Evidence of unclear and high ROB do not support the use of any single provocative maneuver for the diagnosis of CTS. Clinicians should consider a combination of noninvasive clinical diagnostic tests as the first choice for the diagnosis of CTS.
Adjusting the physico-chemical properties of collagen scaffolds to accommodate primary osteoblasts and endothelial cells
Authors: Meyer Nima , Bax Daniel V , Beck Jochen , Cameron Ruth E , Best Serena M
Published: March 2023

Collagen-based biomaterials are used widely as tissue engineering scaffolds because of their excellent bioactivity and their similarity to the natural ECM. The regeneration of healthy bone tissue requires simultaneous support for both osteoblasts and, where angiogenesis is intended, endothelial cells. Hence it is important to tailor carefully the biochemical and structural characteristics of the scaffold to suit the needs of each cell type. This work describes for the first time a systematic study to gain insight into the cell type-specific response of primary human osteoblast (hOBs) and human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMECs) to insoluble collagen-based biomaterials. The behaviour was evaluated on both 2D films and 3D scaffolds, produced using freeze-drying. The collagen was cross-linked at various EDC/NHS concentrations and mono-cultured with hOBs and HDMECs to assess the effect of architectural features and scaffold stabilization on cell behaviour. It was observed that 3D scaffolds cross-linked at 30% of the standard conditions in literature offered an optimal combination of mechanical stiffness and cellular response for both cell types, although endothelial cells were more sensitive to the degree of cross-linking than hOBs. Architectural features have a time-dependent impact on the cell migration profile, with alignment being the most influential parameter overall.
Association between triglyceride-glucose index and carotid atherosclerosis in patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Xie Wenhui , Bian Wei , Song Zhibo , Deng Xuerong , Qu Jiahao , Zhang Zhuoli
Published: March 2023

Objective

To investigate the association of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index with atherosclerotic risk among patients with PsA.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 165 consecutive PsA patients receiving carotid ultrasonography with integrated TyG index, calculated as ln [fasting triglycerides (mg/dl)  × fasting glucose (mg/dl)/2]. Logistic regression models were applied to analyse the association of TyG index as continuous variables and tertiles with carotid atherosclerosis and carotid artery plaque. Fully adjusted model included sex, age, smoking, BMI, comorbidities and psoriatic-related variables.

Results

Overall, PsA patients with carotid atherosclerosis had substantially higher TyG index than those without [8.82 (0.50) vs 8.54 (0.55), P = 0.002]. The frequency of carotid atherosclerosis was increased with increases in TyG index tertiles, showing 14.8%, 34.5%, 44.6% for tertile 1, 2 and 3, respectively (P = 0.003). Multivariate logistic analyses showed that each 1-unit increase in TyG index was significantly associated with prevalent carotid atherosclerosis [unadjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.65 (1.39–5.05); fully adjusted OR 2.69 (1.02–7.11)]. Compared with patients in tertile 1 of TyG index, the unadjusted and fully adjusted OR for occurrence of carotid atherosclerosis were 4.64 (1.85–11.60) and 5.10 (1.54–16.93) in patients in tertile 3. Similarly, higher prevalent carotid artery plaque was observed with increasing TyG index [unadjusted OR 3.11 (1.54–6.26); fully adjusted OR 3.61 (1.15–11.38)] or in tertile 3 vs tertile 1 [unadjusted OR 10.20 (2.83–36.82); fully adjusted OR 17.89 (2.88–111.11)]. Additionally, TyG index provided incremental predictive capacity beyond established risk factors, shown by an increase in discrimination ability (all P < 0.001).

Conclusions

TyG index was positively correlated with the burden of atherosclerosis in PsA patients, independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and psoriatic-related factors. These findings suggest that TyG index may be a promising atherosclerotic marker for the PsA population.
Differential Trajectories of Delusional Content and Severity Over 2 Years of Early Intervention for Psychosis: Comparison Between Chennai, India, and Montréal, Canada
Authors: Lemonde Ann-Catherine , Iyer Srividya N , Malla Ashok , Rangaswamy Thara , Padmavati Ramachandran , Mohan Greeshma , Taksal Aarati , Gariepy Genevieve , Joober Ridha , Boksa Patricia , Shah Jai L
Published: March 2023

Background

There exist few direct studies of delusional content in psychosis across geo-cultural contexts, especially those in which treatment protocols and measures are comparable. To directly examine an illness outcome that is potentially culturally mediated, this study investigated the baseline presentation and longitudinal trajectory of delusions in first-episode psychosis (FEP) across 2 similar treatment settings in Montréal (Canada) and Chennai (India).

Study Design

Patients entering an early intervention program for FEP in Chennai (N = 168) and Montréal (N = 165) were compared on site-level differences in the presentation of delusions across specific time points over 2 years of treatment. Delusions were measured using the Scale for Assessment of Positive Symptoms. Chi-square and regression analyses were conducted

Study Results

At baseline, delusions were more frequent in Montréal than in Chennai (93% vs 80%, respectively; X2(1) = 12.36, P < .001). Thematically, delusions of grandiosity, religiosity, and mind reading were more common in Montréal than in Chennai (all P < .001); however, these baseline differences did not persist over time. Regression revealed a significant time-by-site interaction in the longitudinal course of delusions, which differs from the trajectory of other FEP-positive symptom domains.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first direct comparison of delusions in similar programs for FEP across 2 different geo-cultural contexts. Our findings support the notion that delusion themes follow consistent ordinal patterns across continents. Future work is needed to unpack the differences in severity that present at baseline and minor differences in content.