bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergence analysis of Laguerre approximations for analytic functions
Authors: Wang Haiyong
Published: January 2024

Laguerre spectral approximations play an important role in the development of efficient algorithms for problems in unbounded domains. In this paper, we present a comprehensive convergence rate analysis of Laguerre spectral approximations for analytic functions. By exploiting contour integral techniques from complex analysis, we prove that Laguerre projection and interpolation methods of degree

n
n

converge at the root-exponential rate

O
(
exp
⁡
(
−
2
ρ

n

)
)

O(\exp (-2\rho \sqrt {n}))

with

ρ
>
0

\rho >0

when the underlying function is analytic inside and on a parabola with focus at the origin and vertex at

z
=
−

ρ
2

z=-\rho ^2

. As far as we know, this is the first rigorous proof of root-exponential convergence of Laguerre approximations for analytic functions. Several important applications of our analysis are also discussed, including Laguerre spectral differentiations, Gauss-Laguerre quadrature rules, the scaling factor and the Weeks method for the inversion of Laplace transform, and some sharp convergence rate estimates are derived. Numerical experiments are presented to verify the theoretical results.
Two criteria for quasihomogeneity
Authors: Maitra Sarasij , Mukundan Vivek
Published: January 2024

Let

(
R
,

m

R

,

k

)

(R,\mathfrak {m}_R,\mathbb {k})

be a one-dimensional complete local reduced

k

\mathbb {k}

-algebra over a field of characteristic zero. The ring

R
R

is said to be quasihomogeneous if there exists a surjection

Ω
R

↠

m

\Omega _R\twoheadrightarrow \mathfrak {m}

where

Ω
R

\Omega _R

denotes the module of differentials. We present two characterizations of quasihomogeniety of

R
R

in the case when

R
R

is a domain. The first one on the valuation semigroup of

R
R

and the other on the trace ideal of the module

Ω
R

\Omega _R

.
Basic metric geometry of the bottleneck distance
Authors: Che Mauricio , Galaz-García Fernando , Guijarro Luis , Membrillo Solis Ingrid , Valiunas Motiejus
Published: January 2024

Given a metric pair

(
X
,
A
)

(X,A)

, i.e. a metric space

X
X

and a distinguished closed set

A
⊂
X

A\subset X

, one may construct in a functorial way a pointed pseudometric space

D

∞

(
X
,
A
)

\mathcal {D}_\infty (X,A)

of persistence diagrams equipped with the bottleneck distance. We investigate the basic metric properties of the spaces

D

∞

(
X
,
A
)

\mathcal {D}_\infty (X,A)

and obtain characterizations of their metrizability, completeness, separability, and geodesicity.
A bound for the torsion on subvarieties of abelian varieties
Authors: Galateau Aurélien , Martínez César
Published: January 2024

We give a uniform bound on the degree of the maximal torsion cosets for subvarieties of an abelian variety. The proof combines algebraic interpolation and a theorem of Serre on homotheties in the Galois representation associated to the torsion subgroup of an abelian variety.
Bayesian semiparametric model for sequential treatment decisions with informative timing
Authors: Oganisian Arman , Getz Kelly D , Alonzo Todd A , Aplenc Richard , Roy Jason A
Published: January 2024

We develop a Bayesian semiparametric model for the impact of dynamic treatment rules on survival among patients diagnosed with pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The data consist of a subset of patients enrolled in a phase III clinical trial in which patients move through a sequence of four treatment courses. At each course, they undergo treatment that may or may not include anthracyclines (ACT). While ACT is known to be effective at treating AML, it is also cardiotoxic and can lead to early death for some patients. Our task is to estimate the potential survival probability under hypothetical dynamic ACT treatment strategies, but there are several impediments. First, since ACT is not randomized, its effect on survival is confounded over time. Second, subjects initiate the next course depending on when they recover from the previous course, making timing potentially informative of subsequent treatment and survival. Third, patients may die or drop out before ever completing the full treatment sequence. We develop a generative Bayesian semiparametric model based on Gamma Process priors to address these complexities. At each treatment course, the model captures subjects’ transition to subsequent treatment or death in continuous time. G-computation is used to compute a posterior over potential survival probability that is adjusted for time-varying confounding. Using our approach, we estimate the efficacy of hypothetical treatment rules that dynamically modify ACT based on evolving cardiac function.
Extensive expertise in endocrinology: adrenal crisis in assisted reproduction and pregnancy
Authors: Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla
Published: January 2024

Appropriate management of adrenal insufficiency in pregnancy is challenging due to the rarity of both primary, secondary, and tertiary forms of the disease and the lack of evidence-based recommendations to guide clinicians to glucocorticoid and sometimes also mineralocorticoid dosage adjustments. Debut of adrenal insufficiency during pregnancy requires immediate diagnosis as it can lead to adrenal crisis, intrauterine growth restriction, and foetal demise. Diagnosis is difficult due to the overlap of symptoms of adrenal insufficiency and its crisis with those of pregnancy. Adrenal insufficiency in stable replacement treatment needs careful monitoring during pregnancy to adapt to the physiological changes in the requirements of the adrenal hormones. This is hampered because the diagnostic threshold of most adrenocortical hormones is not applicable during pregnancy. The frequent use of assisted reproduction technology with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in these patient groups with disease-induced low fertility has created an unrecognised risk of adrenal crises due to accelerated oestrogen stimulation with an increased risk of even life-threatening complications for both the woman and foetus. The area needs consensus recommendations between gynaecologists and endocrinologists in tertiary referral centres to alleviate such increased gestational risk. Patient and partner education and the use of the EU emergency card for the management of adrenal crises can also contribute to better pregnancy outcomes. There is a strong need for more research on, for example, the improvement of glucocorticoid replacement as well as crisis management treatment and biomarkers for treatment optimization in this field, which suffers from the rare nature of the diseases and poor funding.
Bacteria involved in the sulfur cycle in tarballs collected from the Alabama Gulf Coast
Authors: Gwak Joo-Han , Rhee Sung-Keun , Park Joong-Wook
Published: January 2024

Tarballs are formed from released or discharged crude oil containing sulfur compounds. A considerable amount and variety of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB) were identified in tarballs collected from the intertidal and supratidal zones of Alabama’s Gulf beaches. Amplicon sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene showed that SRB were more abundantly distributed in the core than on the surface of tarballs, while no significant differences were observed in the distribution of SOB. To our best knowledge, this is the first report on the spatial distribution of diverse SRB and SOB in tarballs.
Is povidone-iodine pleurodesis as effective, safe and well tolerated as talc pleurodesis for recurrent malignant pleural effusions?
Authors: Bonser Sophie A , Zhu Michael Z L , McKay Glenn S
Published: January 2024

A best evidence topic in thoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was ‘For patients with malignant pleural effusion is chemical pleurodesis with povidone-iodine as effective, safe and well tolerated as talc pleurodesis for prevention of recurrent malignant pleural effusions?’. A total of 124 papers were found during the search, of which 8 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date, country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers were tabulated. At present, medical-grade talc is the most commonly used agent for chemical pleurodesis due to its high success rate, extensive history of clinical use and well-known side-effect profile. However, studies using povidone-iodine seek to establish it as a readily available,low-cost alternative to talc that can be easily administered through an intercostal catheter at the bedside. The summation of available evidence suggests that povidone-iodine is a safe, well-tolerated and equally efficacious agent for pleurodesis in the setting of malignant pleural effusion, when compared to talc.
Stable and efficient seismic impedance inversion using quantum annealing with L1 norm regularization
Authors: Wang Silin , Liu Cai , Li Peng , Chen Changle , Song Chao
Published: January 2024

Seismic impedance inversion makes a significant contribution to locating hydrocarbons and interpreting seismic data. However, it suffers from non-unique solutions, and a direct linear inversion produces large errors. Global optimization methods, such as simulated annealing, have been applied in seismic impedance inversion and achieved promising inversion results. Over the last decades, there has been an increasing interest in quantum computing. Owing to its natural parallelism, quantum computing has a powerful computational capability and certain advantages in solving complex inverse problems. In this article, we present a stable and efficient impedance inversion using quantum annealing with L1 norm regularization, which significantly improves the inversion accuracy compared to the traditional simulated annealing method. Tests on a one-dimensional 10-layer model with noisy data demonstrate that the new method exhibits significantly improved accuracy and stability. Additionally, we perform seismic impedance inversion for synthetic data from the overthrust model and field data using two methods. These results demonstrate that the quantum annealing impedance inversion with L1 norm regularization dramatically enhances the accuracy and anti-noise ability.
Development of non-hydrophilic similar materials for weakly cemented rocks and its experimental application in water conservation mining
Authors: Gu Qingheng , Qi Minjie , Zhao Guangming , Ma Qing , Guo Weiyao , Lu Wenlong
Published: January 2024

The mining of coal mines in western China needs to focus on protecting groundwater. A non-hydrophilic similar material for simulating the development and hydraulic conductivity of weakly cemented overlying strata fractures was developed. Fine sand, coarse sand, and gypsum are used as aggregates. Paraffin and Vaseline are used as binders. The non-hydrophilic material ratios of weakly cemented sandy mudstone and medium-grained sandstone were determined by orthogonal experiments, and used for similar simulation tests. The results show that the non-hydrophilicity of rock-like materials can be adjusted to prevent them from softening and collapsing under the action of water. Non-hydrophilic materials of higher strength and brittleness of rocks can be achieved by adjusting the content of paraffin, fine sand, and gypsum. The non-hydrophilic materials of soft and large particle rocks can be achieved by adjusting the content of paraffin, fine sand, and gypsum. After the coal seam in a similar simulation experiment was extracted, the large area of weakly cemented rock above it underwent overall settlement and fracture. Although this part was located within the failure zone, there was no macroscopic water-conducting cracks generated. The height of the water-conducting fracture zone was lower than the height of the fracture zone classified by the traditional ‘three zone’ theory, which is consistent with the on-site measurements. This indicates that the prepared non-hydrophilic material is reliable. The similarity simulation method based on non-hydrophilic materials can enrich the means for studying the fracture and permeability of weakly cemented overlying rocks in coal mines.
Significant Oxygen Underestimation When Quantifying Barium-Doped SrTiO Layers by Atom Probe Tomography
Authors: Morris Richard J H , Lin Jhao-Rong , Scheerder Jeroen E , Popovici Mihaela I , Meersschaut Johan , Goux Ludovic , Kar Gouri Sankar , van der Heide Paul , Fleischmann Claudia
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the capability for quantifying the composition of Ba-doped SrTiO layers from an atom probe measurement was explored. Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and time-of-flight/energy elastic recoil detection were used to benchmark the composition where the amount of titanium was intentionally varied between samples. The atom probe results showed a significant divergence from the benchmarked composition. The cause was shown to be a significant oxygen underestimation (≳14 at%). The ratio between oxygen and titanium for the samples varied between 2.6 and 12.7, while those measured by atom probe tomography were lower and covered a narrower range between 1.4 and 1.7. This difference was found to be associated with the oxygen and titanium predominantly field evaporating together as a molecular ion. The evaporation fields and bonding chemistries determined showed inconsistencies for explaining the oxygen underestimation and ion species measured. The measured ion charge state was in excellent agreement with that predicted by the Kingham postionization theory. Only by considering the measured ion species, their evaporation fields, the coordination chemistry, the analysis conditions, and some recently reported density functional theory modeling for oxide field emission were we able to postulate a field emission and oxygen neutral desorption process that may explain our results.
Collaborative robots can augment human cognition in regret-sensitive tasks
Authors: Schlafly Millicent , Prabhakar Ahalya , Popovic Katarina , Schlafly Geneva , Kim Christopher , Murphey Todd D
Published: January 2024

Despite theoretical benefits of collaborative robots, disappointing outcomes are well documented by clinical studies, spanning rehabilitation, prostheses, and surgery. Cognitive load theory provides a possible explanation for why humans in the real world are not realizing the benefits of collaborative robots: high cognitive loads may be impeding human performance. Measuring cognitive availability using an electrocardiogram, we ask 25 participants to complete a virtual-reality task alongside an invisible agent that determines optimal performance by iteratively updating the Bellman equation. Three robots assist by providing environmental information relevant to task performance. By enabling the robots to act more autonomously—managing more of their own behavior with fewer instructions from the human—here we show that robots can augment participants’ cognitive availability and decision-making. The way in which robots describe and achieve their objective can improve the human’s cognitive ability to reason about the task and contribute to human–robot collaboration outcomes. Augmenting human cognition provides a path to improve the efficacy of collaborative robots. By demonstrating how robots can improve human cognition, this work paves the way for improving the cognitive capabilities of first responders, manufacturing workers, surgeons, and other future users of collaborative autonomy systems.
Corporate Climate Risk: Measurements and Responses
Authors: Li Qing , Shan Hongyu , Tang Yuehua , Yao Vincent
Published: January 2024

This paper conducts a textual analysis of earnings call transcripts to quantify climate risk exposure at the firm level. We construct dictionaries that measure physical and transition climate risks separately and identify firms that proactively respond to climate risks. Our validation analysis shows that our measures capture firm-level variations in respective climate risk exposure. Firms facing high transition risk, especially those that do not proactively respond, have been valued at a discount in recent years as aggregate investor attention to climate-related issues has been increasing. We document differences in how firms respond through investment, green innovation, and employment when facing high climate risk exposure.
Antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in fruits and vegetables from retail and home gardens
Authors: Olanbiwoninu Afolake , Awotundun Theresa , Olayiwola John , Somorin Yinka
Published: January 2024

Fruits and vegetables have been identified as vehicles for the transmission of pathogenic antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) microorganisms. This is of food safety concern, thus requiring continuous surveillance. This study aimed to profile AMR bacteria present in selected fruits and vegetables retailed in markets and from home gardens (HGs) in Oyo, Ogun, and Ekiti states, Nigeria. Watermelon, cucumber, tomato, and garden egg samples were collected and analyzed using standard microbiological procedures. The susceptibility of the isolates to eight antibiotics was determined. Multidrug-resistant isolates were screened for the presence of AMR genes by polymerase chain reaction. Fifty three bacteria were isolated and identified, belonging to the genera Bacillus, Corynebacterium, Listeria, Aeromonas, Enterobacter, Erwinia, Salmonella, Serratia, Shigella, and Vibrio. Thirty six (67.93%) isolates demonstrated phenotypic resistance to five of the eight antibiotics tested, being the most prevalent pattern observed. BlaTEM and blaCTX-M were detected in Salmonella enterica from retailed tomato, blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M, and erm(B) were detected in Listeria monocytogenes from retailed watermelon, blaSHV and blaCTX-M were detected in Bacillus cereus from retailed tomato, while blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M, and erm(F) were detected in Staphylococcus aureus isolated in garden egg from HG. The presence of multidrug-resistant pathogens in fruits and vegetables could pose a huge food safety and public health risk.
Oxalate and oxalotrophy: an environmental perspective
Authors: Cowan Don A , Babenko Darya , Bird Ryan , Botha Alf , Breecker Daniel O , Clarke Cathy E , Francis Michele L , Gallagher Tim , Lebre Pedro H , Nel Teneille , Potts Alastair J , Trindade Marla , Van Zyl Lonnie
Published: January 2024

Oxalic acid is one of the most abundant organic acids produced by plants. Much of the global production of oxalic acid is deposited on soil surfaces in leaf litter to be oxidized by microorganisms, resulting in a pH increase and shifting the carbonate equilibria. In what is known as the oxalate-carbonate pathway, calcium oxalate metabolism results in CO2 being sequestered into soils as insoluble calcite (CaCO3). There is a growing appreciation that the global scale of this process is sufficiently large to be an important contribution to global carbon turnover budgets.

The microbiomics, genetics, and enzymology of oxalotrophy are all soundly established, although a more detailed understanding of the landscape-scale kinetics of the process would be needed to incorporate oxalotrophy as an element of process models informing the relevant Sustainable Development Goals. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of oxalotrophs and oxalotrophy and the role they play in terrestrial ecosystem services and functions in terms of carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling. We emphasize the relevance of these to the Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) and highlight the importance of recognizing oxalotrophy, when accounting for the natural capital value of an ecosystem.
Fever in infants ages 8 to 60 days
Authors: Files Jared M.
Published: January 2024

Fever in infants under age 60 days is a leading cause of ED, urgent care, and primary care visits. Most infants present as well-appearing, and guidelines for the workup and appropriate management of these children have varied over the decades. Additionally, testing availability, accuracy, and changing bacterial prevalence patterns have rendered many guidelines obsolete. An updated guideline from the American Academy of Pediatrics provides a foundation for clinician evaluation of patients in this vulnerable age group.
Sublaminar Decompression and Fusion Versus Sublaminar Trimming Laminoplasty: A Retrospective Cohort
Authors: Khalid Saleh Mohammed , Selem Ali Elsayed Mohamed , Nafea Waleed Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Background:

Many surgical options for treating lumbar degenerative disorders have been used to improve health related outcome of those patients. The aim of the study is to compare the functional and radiological outcome of the two techniques in management of Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS).

Methods:

Sixty patients with Lumbar spinal stenosis were included in a retrospective cohort study at zagazig university hospital. The inclusion criteria were patients with single level LSS with back and /or leg pain with instability on dynamic radiology not responding to medical treatment. Patients were divided into two groups according to the method of treatment done. Group1 included patients with sublaminar trimming Laminoplasty. group 2 included patients with sublaminar decompression. (VAS) for back and leg pain and the (ODI) for the disability. we measured AP-thecal sac area, foraminal height and the thecal sac area for all patients (pre- and post-operative).

Results:

no difference in relation to demographic data nor in the diagnosis of the spinal stenosis. Group-2 had longer hospital stay. Both groups improved clinically postoperatively with no statistical difference between them. However, the rate of improvement in group-2 in relation to leg pain was better. Both groups improved radiologically, but AP-thecal sac area, foraminal height and the thecal sac area were much improved in group-2 (p-value<0.001).

Conclusion:

Sublaminar decompression can particularly achieve better central, foraminal and lateral recess decompression together with a better fusion rate and hence, can be used as alternative to different laminotomy decompression techniques for treating different lumbar degenerative disorders.
Thrombotic and Vascular Complications of Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Windisch Stephen , Frishman William H.
Published: January 2024

The oral contraceptive pill is the most commonly used form of reversible contraception, as it has significantly grown in popularity in recent years. The 2 types of oral contraceptive pills are combination oral contraceptives, which contain estrogen and progesterone, and progestin-only pills. Both have failure rates of approximately 7.2–9% with typical use and are safe for most patients. However, several thrombotic and vascular complications have been found to be associated with the usage of oral contraceptive pills, most notably being an increase in blood pressure and thrombosis. Although these complications do not typically affect young, healthy females, they merit concern for patients with a history of hypertension or thrombosis or patients with preexisting risk factors for these conditions. Overall, progestin-only pills are the safer option regarding these complications. Additionally, a complete summary of the medical eligibility criteria for contraceptive use has been created and is regularly updated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This chart summarizes the recommendations for contraception use by patients with a variety of preexisting conditions or risk factors.
A Propensity-Score Matched Analysis of the Impact of Neoadjuvant Radiation Therapy on the Outcomes of Stage II-III Mucinous Rectal Carcinoma
Authors: Emile Sameh Hany , Horesh Nir , Freund Michael R. , Silva-Alvarenga Emanuela , Wexner Steven D.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Patients with mucinous rectal carcinoma tend to present in advanced stage with a poor prognosis.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to assess the effect of neoadjuvant radiation therapy on outcomes of patients with stage II-III mucinous rectal carcinomas using data from the National Cancer Database.

DESIGN:

Retrospective analysis of prospective national databases.

PATIENTS:

Patients with mucinous rectal carcinoma.

SETTING:

National Cancer Database between 2004 and 2019.

INTERVENTION:

Patients who did or did not receive neoadjuvant radiation therapy were matched using the nearest-neighbor propensity-score method for age, clinical stage, neoadjuvant systemic treatment, and surgery type.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Main outcomes of the study were numbers of total harvested and positive lymph nodes, disease downstaging after neoadjuvant radiation, and overall survival. Other outcomes were hospital stay, short-term mortality, and readmission.

RESULTS:

A total of 3062 patients (63.5% male) with stage II-III mucinous rectal carcinoma were included, 2378 (77.7%) of whom received neoadjuvant radiation therapy. After 2:1 propensity-score matching, 143 patients in the no-neoadjuvant group were matched to 286 in the neoadjuvant group. The mean overall survival was similar (77.3 vs 81.9 months; p = 0.316). Patients who received neoadjuvant radiation were less often diagnosed with pT3-4 disease (72.3% vs 81.3%, p = 0.013) and more often had pathologic stage 0-1 disease (16.4% vs 11.2%, p = 0.001), yet with a higher stage III disease (49.7% vs 37.1%, p = 0.001). Neoadjuvant radiation was associated with fewer examined lymph nodes (median: 14 vs 16, p = 0.036) and positive lymph nodes than patients who did not receive neoadjuvant radiation. Short-term mortality, readmission, hospital stay, and positive surgical margins were similar.

LIMITATIONS:

Retrospective study and missing data on disease recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with mucinous rectal carcinoma who received neoadjuvant radiation therapy had marginal downstaging of disease, fewer examined and fewer positive lymph nodes, and similar overall survival to patients who did not have neoadjuvant radiation. See Video
Meshed Dermal Sling for Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Paganini Ferruccio , Bascialla Elisa , Corno Martina , Garutti Leonardo , Tellarini Annachiara , Cozzi Silvia , Buttarelli Francesco , Fasoli Veronica , Valdatta Luigi , Tamborini Federico
Published: January 2024

The best breast reconstruction solution after mastectomy remains a topic of wide debate. Recently, the focus in the field of implant-based reconstruction has been on the increasing indications for prepectoral reconstruction. This offers undoubted advantages over subpectoral reconstruction, ranging from better aesthetic results and patient comfort to a less invasive procedure that spares the pectoralis major muscle, reducing pain and postoperative recovery time. The dermal sling is a reconstructive variant introduced by Bostwick in the 1990s and is commonly used to complete the subpectoral pocket in one- or two-stage reconstruction, creating a dual-plane reconstruction. This method may be indicated after mastectomy for both therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. It can also be used for unilateral and bilateral reconstructions. We propose a new meshed dermal sling technique that allows complete prepectoral reconstruction without the use of acellular dermal matrix, thus reducing the cost of reconstruction. It also allows the indication for complete prepectoral reconstruction to be extended to patients with medium breast volume and grade 1 or 2 ptosis, without the need to use acellular dermal matrix or the pectoralis major muscle to complete the breast pocket.
Effect of 12-week high-intensity interval training on hemodynamic variables at rest and during exercise in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Lins-Filho Ozeas , Germano-Soares Antonio H. , Aguiar José Lucas Porto , de Almedia José Ricardo Vieira , Felinto Elton Carlos , Lyra Maria Julia , Leite Danielle Batista , Drager Luciano Ferreira , Farah Breno Quintella , Pedrosa Rodrigo Pinto
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the impact of 12 weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on hemodynamic variables at rest and during exercise in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. Twenty-six obese adults with moderate-to-severe OSA (AHI = 42 ± 22.9 e/h) were randomly assigned to HIIT or a control group. Sleep parameters, ambulatorial, aortic, and during-exercise SBP and DBP were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Generalized estimated equations assessed differences between groups over time. When compared with control group, HIIT reduced AHI (17.1 ± 6.2; e/h, P < 0.01), SBPnighttime (10.2 ± 5.0 mmHg; P = 0.034), DBPnighttime (7.9 ± 4.0 mmHg; P = 0.038), DBPaortic (5.5 ± 2.9 mmHg; P = 0.048), and SBPmax (29.6 ± 11.8 mmHg; P = 0.045). In patients with OSA, 12 weeks of HIIT decreases sleep apnoea severity and blood pressure in rest and during exercise.
Medication adherence and associated factors in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients in Japan: the LIFE study
Authors: Sagara Kumi , Goto Kenichi , Maeda Megumi , Murata Fumiko , Fukuda Haruhisa
Published: January 2024

Hypertension is the leading cardiovascular risk factor worldwide. However, in Japan, only 30% of patients have their blood pressure controlled under 140/90 mmHg, and nonadherence to antihypertensives is thought to be a reason for the poor control of hypertension. We therefore sought to assess the adherence to hypertension treatment and to evaluate factors influencing patients’ adherence in a large, representative sample of the Japanese population. To this end, we analyzed claims data from the LIFE Study database, which includes 112 506 Japanese adults with newly diagnosed hypertension. Medication adherence was measured for a year postdiagnosis using the proportion of days covered (PDC) method. Factors associated with adherence to antihypertensives were also assessed. Among the total 112 506 hypertensive patients, the nonadherence rate (PDC ≤ 80%) for antihypertensives during the first year after initiation of the treatment was 26.2%. Younger age [31–35 years: odds ratio (OR), 0.15; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.12–0.19 compared with 71–74-year-old patients], male gender, monotherapy, and diuretics use [OR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.82–0.91 compared with angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)] were associated with poor adherence in the present study. Cancer comorbidity (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.79–0.91 compared with no comorbidity), prescription at a hospital, and living in a medium-sized to regional city were also associated with poor adherence. Our present findings showing the current status of adherence to antihypertensive medications and its associated factors using claims data in Japan should help to improve adherence to antihypertensives and blood pressure control.
Dietary patterns associated with hypertension among stroke-free indigenous Africans: insights from the Stroke Investigative Research and Educational Network study
Authors: Okekunle Akinkunmi Paul , Asowata Osahon Jeffery , Akpa Onoja Matthew , Fakunle Adekunle Gregory , Bodunde Ifeoluwa , Komolafe Morenikeji , Arulogun Oyedunni , Sarfo Fred Stephen , Obiako Reginald , Osaigbovo Godwin , Ogbole Godwin , Bello Abiodun , Adeniyi Sunday , Calys-Tagoe Benedict , Appiah Lambert , Jenkins Carolyn , Oyinloye Olalekan , Dambatta Hamisu , Balogun Olayemi , Singh Arti , Olalere Abimbola , Mensah Yaw , Ogah Okechukwu S. , Ibinaiye Philip , Adebayo Oladimeji , Adebajo Olayinka , Adebayo Philip , Chukwuonye Ijezie , Akinyemi Rufus , Ovbiagele Bruce , Owolabi Mayowa ,   SIREN Investigators
Published: January 2024

Background:

The dietary factors associated with the high burden of hypertension among indigenous Africans remain poorly understood. We assessed the relationship between dietary patterns and hypertension among indigenous Africans.

Method:

In this study, 1550 participants with hypertension matched (for age: ± 5 years, sex and ethnicity) with 1550 participants without hypertension were identified from the stroke-free population in the Stroke Investigative Research and Educational Network study in Ghana and Nigeria. Food consumption was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and dietary information was summarized using principal component analysis to identify seven dietary patterns. Conditional logistic regression was applied to compute the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the risk of hypertension by tertiles of dietary patterns adjusting for age, education, income, smoking, alcohol use, physical inactivity, family history of cardiovascular diseases, obesity and salt intake at a two-sided P less than 0.05.

Results:

Multivariable-adjusted OR [95% confidence interval (CI)] for risk of hypertension by second and third tertiles [using the lowest (first) tertile as reference] of dietary patterns were 0.62 (0.48–0.80), 0.70 (0.54–0.90) for whole grains and fruit drinks; 0.87 (0.68–1.12), 0.83 (0.64–1.08) for fruits; 0.85 (0.65–1.10), 0.97 (0.75–1.26) for vegetables, legumes and potatoes; 0.78 (0.60–1.00), 0.84 (0.65–1.08) for fried foods and sweetened drinks; 1.13 (0.88–1.45), 0.80 (0.62–1.03) for poultry product and organ meat; 1.11 (0.86–1.43), 0.88 (0.68–1.14) for red meat; and 1.14 (0.88–1.48), 1.09 (0.84–1.43) for processed foods (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

A higher adherence to dietary consumption of whole grains and fruits was inversely associated with low odds of hypertension in this population.
Associations between lipid-lowering drugs and pregnancy and perinatal outcomes: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Runfang , Zhao Jing , Li Li , Huo Yan
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Mounting evidence has indicated that maternal dyslipidemia is associated with adverse obstetric outcomes, and the actions of lipid-lowering drugs in pregnant women remain controversial. Hence, this study aimed to appraise the causal relationship of lipid-lowering drugs [hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme reductase (HMGCR) inhibitors, PCSK9 inhibitors, and NPC1L1 inhibitors] with pregnancy and perinatal outcomes using drug-targeting Mendelian randomization analysis.

Methods:

As a proxy for lipid-lowering drug exposure, two genetic instruments were used: genetic variants within or near the gene linked to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and the expression of quantitative trait loci of the drug target gene. Effect estimates were calculated using the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method and summary data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) method. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were assessed by Mendelian randomization–Egger regression, the Cochran Q test, and MR-PRESSO analysis.

Results:

HMGCR inhibitors were ascribed to a reduced risk of preeclampsia in both the IVW-MR method [odds ratio (OR) 0.583; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.418–0.812; P = 0.001] and SMR analysis (OR 0.816; 95% CI 0.675–0.986; P = 0.036). The causal link between HMGCR inhibitors and offspring birthweight was statistically significant only in the analysis using the IVW method (OR, 0.879; 95% CI, 0.788–0.980; P = 0.020), and the combined results of the OR values supported the potential inhibitory effect of HMGCR inhibitors on offspring birthweight. Causal associations between lipid-lowering drugs and gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and congenital anomalies were not detected in either analysis.

Conclusion:

No causal associations were observed between lipid-lowering drugs and gestational diabetes, preterm birth or congenital anomalies, whereas genetically predicted HMGCR inhibition dramatically reduced the risk of preeclampsia but attenuated offspring birthweight.
Reverse Lid Swinging Approach: A Case Series
Authors: Lai Kenneth K. H. , Lam Matthew C. W. , Kwok Tracy Y. T. , Leung Bonnie L. C. , Ng Ben C. F. , Mak Calvin H. K. , Yuen Hunter K. L.
Published: January 2024

In this report, the authors describe the reverse lid swinging approach, which comprises lateral canthotomy, superior lateral cantholysis to free the upper eyelid, and an incision at the superonasal conjunctival fornix for orbital exposure. Four patients underwent orbitotomy using the reverse lid swinging approach for orbital tumor removal (n = 3) or orbital abscess drainage (n = 1). All 4 operations were uneventful, with no optic nerve dysfunction or extraocular dysmotility over the follow-up period. Satisfactory cosmesis was achieved with no visible external scar in all cases. The reverse lid swinging approach provides easy access to medial orbital lesions as demonstrated in the present case series.
Thickness of the Medial Pretarsal Adipose Tissue in the Upper Eyelid among the Japanese Population
Authors: Kalaczyńska Elżbieta , Fukushige Kaori , Umemoto Kanae , Wanibuchi Sora , Someda Steffani Krista , Takahashi Yasuhiro , Naito Munekazu
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To investigate the medial pretarsal adipose tissue thickness of the upper eyelid in the Japanese population.

Methods:

Sixty-two whole upper eyelids were harvested from 35 Japanese cadavers and fixed in paraffin. The samples were cut into 5 µm sagittal microsections and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, as well as Masson’s trichrome. Data obtained from images and measurements were taken with Aperio ScanScope and ImageScope software and underwent statistical analysis.

Results:

The samples were divided into 3 shapes sagittal cross-sections of the eyelid (triangular, rectangular, and flat) corresponding to the shape of the medial pretarsal adipose tissue. Type I (triangular shape, 48.4%) had a ratio of fat thickness at 1⁄2 tarsal height to peak fat thickness of <0.9, and type IIa (rectangular shape, 30.6%) and IIb (flat shape, 21.0%) had pretarsal adipose tissue thickness to tarsal height ratio of ≥0.2 and <0.2, respectively. The mean values of tarsal thickness at 1⁄2 tarsal height were 1021 µm for the type I group, 1100 µm for the type IIa group, and 764.4 µm for the type IIb group (p = 0.01). The mean values of fat thickness at 1⁄2 tarsal height were 410.6 µm for the type I group, 303.3 µm for the type IIa group, and 242.6 µm for the type IIb group (p = 0.26).

Conclusions:

The thickness of the medial pretarsal adipose tissue was different according to the shape of the sagittal cross-section of the eyelid. Awareness of the medial pretarsal adipose tissue thickness contributes to effective suture placement and safe suture depth during blepharoptosis surgery.
Congenital Eyelid Imbrication and Floppy Eyelid Syndromes Complicated by Eversion due to Prostaglandin E Infusion in a Patient With Trisomy 21 and Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Strong Caldwell Anne , Volkin Jonathan , Wu Tiffany , Vloka Caroline , Hink Eric
Published: January 2024

Congenital eyelid imbrication syndrome is a rare eyelid finding where a long upper lid overlaps the lower lid when the eyes are closed. To date, congenital eyelid imbrication syndrome has been described in the literature less than 10 times. We present a case of congenital eyelid imbrication syndrome in a patient with trisomy 21 and tetralogy of Fallot on a prostaglandin E infusion to maintain a patent ductus arteriosus prior to definitive heart surgery. While on the infusion, the patient developed peripheral edema and flushing due to vasodilation. This coincided with eyelid swelling, conjunctival chemosis, and eversion of the eyelids. Upon cessation of the prostaglandin E1 infusion, his eyelid eversion resolved.
Seasonal Changes of Common Viral Infections in Children After Their Return to School During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Iñigo Melania , Svedin Daniela , Vacaroaia Alex , Pérez-García Alejandra , Lillo Cristina , Garrido Felipe
Published: January 2024

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, return of children and adolescents to schools and colleges, with infections preventive restrictions, occurred in September 2020. In spring 2021, these restrictions were lifted. In this context, health systems noticed an apparent change in the seasonality and epidemiology of common viral infections in both adult and pediatric populations.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the results of respiratory virus polymerase chain reaction (PCR) carried out on pediatric nasopharynx samples, tested with multiplex PCR assay to detect the presence of common respiratory viruses.

Results

We reviewed a total of 1338 PCR samples from our microbiology laboratory. After the return to school, the most frequently identified virus was rhinovirus-enterovirus (27.8%), followed by respiratory syncytial virus (21%). An increase of positive respiratory syncytial virus PCRs was detected out of its common epidemic period from spring to summer of 2021. A peak in influenza virus infections was observed between March and May 2022. The lifting of restrictions due to COVID-19 had a significant impact on the type of virus detected.

Conclusions

We conclude that with the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, the return to school of children and adolescents, and lifting of preventative restrictions, the circulation of common viruses within this age group increased gradually, showing an unusual delay and peaks outside its epidemic periods.
Familial Aggregation and ABO Blood Groups and COVID-19 Severity Among Hospitalized Patients
Authors: John Mathew , Orathel Sunny P. , Varghese Jaicob , Pradeep Manu , Jacob Quincy M. , Thomas Ronnie , John Salini Baby , Ramamoorthy Venkataraghavan , Saxena Anshul , Rubens Muni
Published: January 2024

Background

Planning effective preventive and control measures requires understanding of the variability in the severity of infectious illnesses and factors determining susceptibility. The present study aimed to assess the association between familial susceptibility and ABO blood group with COVID-19 disease severity and adverse outcomes.

Methods

The present study was a retrospective investigation that was carried out at a tertiary care hospital with a bed capacity of 560 in the state of Kerala, India. A structured questionnaire was used to extract demographic and clinical characteristics from screened records. The study participants were stratified into 2 distinct groups based on the severity of their illness: mild to moderate and severe. Familial aggregation was operationally defined as the occurrence of COVID-19 diagnosis in any first-degree relative.

Results

A total of 362 hospitalized patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection were included in the analysis. Among them 62 (17.1%) were categorized as severe COVID-19 and 300 (82.9%) were categorized as mild to moderate COVID-19. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that the odds of sever COVID-19 disease was significantly higher among patients with familial aggregation (odds ratio, 2.47; 95% confidence interval, 2.12–2.85) and with non-O blood group (odds ratio, 2.21; 95% confidence interval, 2.01–2.56).

Conclusions

The findings of our study highlight the significance of familial aggregation and ABO blood group as crucial factors in determining the severity of COVID-19 disease. Comprehending the interrelationship between these variables and the genetic makeup of the host may hold significance in prognosticating the gravity of COVID-19 consequences.
The Impact of Secondary Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection on the Course of COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Nadir Yasemin , Kiran Pinar , Erturk Damla , Uzun Ugur , Yavuz Tunzala , Ersan Gursel , Ozden Hale Turan , Senger Suheyla Serin
Published: January 2024

Background

Secondary bacterial infections can worsen the prognosis for COVID-19, especially in patients with severe infections. Thus, we aim to investigate the effect of secondary catheter-related bloodstream infections on the course of COVID-19 infection.

Material and Methods

This is a retrospective, nested case-control study and included 236 confirmed COVID-19 infection hospitalized patients, divided into 2 groups (COVID-19, n = 64; non–COVID-19, n = 172) according to SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR results.

Results

The age, sex, and prevalence of chronic diseases were similar in both groups. Klebsiella pneumoniae (31.2%) and Acinetobacter baumannii (21.9%) were the predominant microorganisms in the COVID-19 group. Only A. baumannii was statistically higher in the COVID-19 group (P = 0.046). There were no significant differences in terms of resistance profiles. The 30-day mortality was significantly higher in the COVID-19 group (56.3%) than in the non–COVID-19 group (38.4%) (P = 0.014). There was no significant difference in the length of stay between the 2 groups. The multiple logistic regression analysis of risk factors for 30-day mortality revealed that COVID-19 positivity (odds ratio [OR], 2.167; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.056–4.446; P = 0.035), infection with extensively drug-resistant bacteria (OR, 2.949; 95% CI, 1.311–6.636; P = 0.009), and infection with pandrug-resistant bacteria (OR, 3.601; 95% CI, 1.213–10.689; P = 0.021) were independent risk factors for 30-day mortality.

Conclusion

As a conclusion, this study demonstrated that COVID-19 positivity is an independent risk factor for 30-day mortality of secondary catheter-related bloodstream infections. Gram-negative bacteria were the predominant microorganisms, with A. baumannii being statistically higher in the COVID-19 group compared with the non–COVID-19 group. However, there were no statistically significant differences in terms of the resistance profile of microorganisms.
Current Status and Treatment of Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Miola Alessandro , Frye Mark A. , Tondo Leonardo , Baldessarini Ross J.
Published: January 2024

Background

Rapid cycling (RC) at ≥4 recurrent episodes per year in bipolar disorder (BD) has been recognized since the 1970s. We now comment on our recent review of the topic and extensive RC analysis in a large clinical cohort, emphasizing therapeutics research.

Comments

Prevalence of RC-BD averages 36% for any year versus 22% in the preceding year. Rapid cycling is not a consistent feature over many years, although average long-term, annual recurrence rates are greater in RC-BD patients. Risk of RC may be somewhat greater among women and with older ages. It is also associated with cyclothymic temperament, prominent depression, and mood-switching with antidepressant treatment and is associated with increased suicidal risk. Treatment of individual episodes in RC-BD and effective long-term prevention remain inadequately studied, although antidepressant treatment can worsen RC. Some research supports treatment with aripiprazole, lamotrigine, and lithium, and interest in second-generation antipsychotics is emerging. All such options are used in various inadequately evaluated combinations.

Conclusions

Rapid cycling is prevalent among BD patients but seems to vary in risk over time without evidence of progressive worsening. Treatment of acute episodes in RC-BD patients and effective long-term preventive management require much more intensive investigation.
Cutaneous Sporotrichosis in a Middle-Aged Female
Authors: Young Peter A. , Luong Drake , Bae Gordon H.
Published: January 2024

Sporotrichosis is an infection caused by a dimorphic fungus. Typically transmitted through inoculation of contaminated foliage, this disease is seen primarily in farmers or garden workers. The initial manifestation is a single papule at the sight of trauma. The differential diagnosis includes diseases with localized eruptions and lymphangitic spread. Cases caused by zoonotic transmission through felines have also been rising in Brazil. We report this case of a woman who contracted sporotrichosis via cat scratches.