bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of force and moment tensor estimations of subevents during the 2022 Hunga–Tonga submarine volcanic eruption
Authors: Thurin J , Tape C
Published: August 2023

The 2022 January 15 Hunga–Tonga submarine volcanic eruption was unprecedented in the modern era for its size, in terms of its plume height and atmospheric waves, including sound. Global seismic stations recorded maximal radiated energy during 30 min of the plume-forming phase of the eruption (04:00 to 04:30 UTC), with the largest subevents occurring over a 5-min interval starting at 04:15:17 UTC. Here, we consider two simple point-source models—force and moment tensor—and separately consider the single main subevent and the sequence of four subevents. Estimation of source models for the first subevent in the sequence is achieved with a complete search of model parameter space to find the global minimum of a waveform misfit function (body or surface waves). We performed 25 runs to explore the impact of depth, source model (force or moment tensor), wave type (body or surface), and component (vertical, radial, and transverse) on the waveform fits and estimated best-fitting source. Visualization of the misfit function reveals complex trade-offs among model parameters, highlighting the importance of characterizing uncertainties and parameter trade-offs. The four-subevent source model has up to 28 model parameters and requires an efficient search algorithm to find the best-fitting source. For this, we use the covariance matrix adaptation evolution strategy implemented on a high-performance computing cluster. The 10 four-subevent runs for each source model return sequences of subvertical downward forces and explosive-like moment tensors for each subevent. Our results show that these two simple source models provide comparable fits to regional and global seismic waveforms and that the source types for each subevent—either force direction or moment tensor source type on the eigenvalue lune—are similar enough to each other to consider that the subevents originate from the same process. Our estimation of the source mechanisms, sizes, and relative timing should benefit a physical interpretation of the eruption sequence.
Predictive Factors for Efficacy of Oral Tacrolimus Induction Therapy in Moderate to Severe Ulcerative Colitis Patients: Large Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Oshima Naoki , Hiraoka Sakiko , Hayashi Ryohei , Takahashi Sakuma , Ishii Manabu , Hashimoto Shinichi , Yashima Kazuo , Igawa Shoko , Inokuchi Toshihiro , Ueno Yoshitaka , Inaba Tomoki , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Kawashima Kousaku , Takami Taro , Isomoto Hajime , Shiotani Akiko , Tanaka Shinji , Ishihara Shunji
Published: August 2023

Background

Tacrolimus (TAC), a calcineurin inhibitor, is used for remission induction therapy in patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC), with short-term efficacy and related predictive factors shown in previous cohort studies. However, most studies reported data for only a limited number of patients enrolled from a single center. We performed a large multicenter retrospective cohort study to identify factors related to prediction of clinical remission in UC patients treated with oral TAC.

Methods

The medical records of patients with moderate to severe UC treated with oral TAC as induction therapy at 7 institutions between April 2009 and March 2017 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

A total of 216 patients who received TAC for induction were analyzed, of whom 123 (56.9%) showed clinical remission at week 12. Logistic regression analysis indicated that previous or current use of antitumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α antibodies (odds ratio [OR], 0.259; P = .006), and concomitant treatment with 5-aminosalicylate (5-ASA) at the baseline (OR, 0.268; P = .005) were independent predictive factors correlated with failure of clinical remission, whereas higher levels of C-reactive protein (OR, 1.124; P = .014) predicted achievement of clinical remission.

Conclusions

Results of this multicenter study clearly indicate the efficacy of TAC induction therapy for patients with moderate to severe UC. Notably, previous or current use of anti-TNF-α antibodies was associated with poor achievement of clinical remission by week 12.
Synergy Degree Evaluation in the Development of Intelligent Construction and Construction Industrialization—A Case Study of Shenyang, China
Authors: Wu Jiangxuan , Li Lihong
Published: August 2023

In recent years, China’s construction industry has faced looming problems such as sloppy production methods and environmental pollution. Then the initiative of ‘synergistic development of intelligent construction and construction industrialization (ICCI)’ was proposed, which brings new opportunities for the transformation and upgrading and high-quality development of the construction industry. However, the synergy degree in the development of ICCI cannot be measured by the senses. Therefore, this study is devoted to quantitative analysis of the synergy degree in the development of ICCI by establishing a mathematical model. The concept of the synergy degree in the development of ICCI is defined based on synergetics. CiteSpace software is used to determine the five basic elements of talent, technology, information, environment and policy for the synergistic development of ICCI. Based on this, building a mechanism for synergistic development of ICCI with the Driving Force-State-Response (DFSR) model. Establishing an evaluation index system for the synergy degree in the development of ICCI through expert interviews. Then, combining entropy power method and coupling coordination model to empirically analyse the synergy degree in the development of ICCI in Shenyang. The results show that Shenyang is currently at the stage of high-level coupling and high-quality synergy, which is consistent with the actual development. It is also confirmed that the evaluation system of the synergy degree in the development of ICCI is scientific and reasonable. Finally, this study summarizes the suggestions for different levels of the synergy degree in the development of ICCI, which provides a reference for each region to better promote the synergistic development of ICCI.
Discovery and characterization of a novel PKD-Fn3 domains containing GH44 endoglucanase from a Tibetan metagenomic library
Authors: Lyu Yunbin , Luo Hao , Chai Shumao , Zhang Ying , Fan Xinyu , Wang Shaochen , Feng Zhiyang
Published: August 2023

Aims

To explore novel microbial endoglucanases with unique properties derived from extreme environments by using metagenomics approach.

Methods and results

A Tibetan soil metagenomic library was applied for screening cellulase-active clones by function-based metagenomics. The candidate genes in the active clones were identified through bioinformatic analyses and heterologously expressed using an Escherichia coli system. The recombinant endoglucanases were purified and characterized using enzyme assays to determine their bioactivities, stabilities, substrate specificities, and other enzymatic properties. A novel endoglucanase gene Zfeg1907 was identified, which consisted of a glycoside hydrolase family 44 (GH44) catalytic domain along with a polycystic kidney disease (PKD) domain and a fibronectin type Ⅲ (Fn3) domain at the C terminal. Recombinant enzyme ZFEG1907 and its truncated mutant ZFEG1907t (ΔPKDΔFn3) were successfully expressed and purified. The two recombinants exhibited catalytic activities toward carboxymethyl cellulose, konjac glucomannan (KGM), and lichenan. Both enzymes had an optimal temperature of 50°C and an optimal pH value of 5.0. The catalytic activities of both recombinant enzymes were promoted by adding Zn2+ and Ca2+ at the final concentration of 10 mM. The Km value of ZFEG1907 was lower, while the kcat/Km value of ZFEG1907 was higher than those of of ZFEG1907t when using carboxymethyl cellulose, KGM, and lichenan as substrates. Structure prediction of two recombinants revealed that PKD-Fn3 domains consisted of a flexible linker and formed a β-sandwich structure.

Conclusions

A novel endoglucanase ZFEG1907 contained a GH44 catalytic domain and a PKD-Fn3 domain was characterized. The PKD-Fn3 domains were not indispensable for the activity but contributed to the enzyme binding of the polysaccharide substrates as a carbohydrate-binding module (CBM).
Economic, health, and environmental burden of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), in tomato production in Kenya and Uganda
Authors: Chepchirchir Fridah , Muriithi Beatrice Wambui , Langat Jackson , Ndlela Shepard , Mohamed Samira Abuelgasim , Khamis Fathiya
Published: August 2023

The negative effects of pest infestation on agricultural production cannot be underestimated. There have been several efforts to control these pests, chiefly through the use of synthetic pesticides. However, the continuous use of the chemicals causes pest resistance and resurgence and presents high human and environmental risks. This study examines the economic, health, and environmental impacts of Tuta absoluta (Meyrick 1917), an economically important pest in tomato production, among smallholder farmers in selected counties in Kenya and Uganda. Economic Impact Quotient and gross margin analysis were used on data obtained from a random sample of 316 and 345 tomato growers in Kenya and Uganda, respectively. The results show a significant impact of T. absoluta on tomato production in both countries. On average, the tomato growers earned a gross income of $38,123 and $11,627 in Kenya and Uganda, respectively, with synthetic chemicals for the management of T. absoluta contributing 66–78% of the cost of production. The opportunity cost lost due to forgoing pesticide for management of the pest, and instead replacing it with an integrated pest management package was valued between $8 and $646 in Kenya and $895 in Uganda, respectively, using net present value through the most pessimistic scenario, while benefit–cost ratio was $1 and $5 in Kenya and Uganda, respectively.
Growing media is the major source of damaging population of Systena frontalis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in ornamental plant nurseries
Authors: Arshad Rehan , Chong Juang Horng , Del Pozo-Valdivia Alejandro I , Joseph Shimat V
Published: August 2023

Systena frontalis (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a serious pest of ornamental shrubs in containerized ornamental plant nurseries in the central and eastern United States. Adult S. frontalis cause numerous shot holes on foliage, rendering ornamental plants unmarketable. Growing media in plant containers is an overwintering site of S. frontalis, but the extent to which adults emerging from the growing media can damage the plants is unclear. Experiments were conducted on panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata Siebold) in Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia nurseries in the spring of 2021 and 2022 to answer this question. The treatments were (i) canopy caged, (ii) whole-plant caged, and (iii) noncaged hydrangea plants. In all 3 states, beetle abundance and feeding damage found on caged (whole plant) and noncaged plants were significantly greater than those on plants where only the canopy was caged. In most sites and years, beetle abundance and feeding damage were not significantly different between the noncaged plants and those where the canopy and containers were caged, suggesting that the majority of S. frontalis emerged from the growing media and the majority of damage suffered by the hydrangea plants were caused by beetles emerging from the containers. Because growing media contributed to a significant proportion of the S. frontalis population in a nursery, treatment targeting larvae in the growing media should be a critical component of a holistic management plan against S. frontalis.
The first report of surgery for gynecological diseases using the hinotori™ surgical robot system
Authors: Togami Shinichi , Higashi Takuro , Tokudome Akio , Fukuda Mika , Mizuno Mika , Yanazume Shintaro , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study aimed to report the first surgery for gynecological diseases using a new robotic platform, the hinotori™, and validate its feasibility in clinical settings.

Methods

The world’s first robot-assisted total hysterectomy for a gynecological ailment was carried out at Kagoshima University Hospital in December 2022 utilizing the hinotori™ surgical robot system. Eleven other patients then underwent comparable procedures. The surgical team was certified to execute the procedure and had undergone official hinotori™ training.

Results

Preoperative diagnoses indicated five cases of endometrial cancer, four cases of uterine myoma and one case each of atypical endometrial hyperplasia, uterine adenosarcoma and high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Median age and body mass index were 51 (range: 38–70) years and 26.9 (range: 17.3–33.3) kg/m2, respectively. Median roll-in, cockpit and operation times were 15 (range: 10–18), 161 (range: 110–225) and 214 (range: 154–287) min, respectively. The median blood loss was 22 (range: 7–83) mL and conversion to laparotomy was not allowed. Only one patient had postoperative pelvic region infection. The median length of hospital stay was 6 (range: 4–10) days.

Conclusion

Based on our experience with presented 12 cases, robotic surgery with the hinotori™ is a feasible technique of minimally invasive surgery for gynecological diseases.
Life history variation of the Hairy-tailed Akodont (Necromys lasiurus, Rodentia, Sigmodontinae) in the Caatinga biome of northeastern Brazil
Authors: Sobral Gisela , de Oliveira João Alves
Published: August 2023

Rodents are notable for their unique life history traits that render a fast-breeding capacity. Their short generation times allow local adaptations to appear, and several studies have tried to understand if—and how—geographical variables influence local adaptation in life history traits. We compared demographic and life history traits of the Neotropical cricetid Necromys lasiurus based on 7,400 museum specimens collected daily and simultaneously over 5 years at several sites in the Caatinga biogeographic domain subject to heterogeneous geographic and climatological variables. This sample, assembled by the National Plague Service between 1951 and 1955, includes skulls, skins, and individual specimen data currently deposited in the Museu Nacional (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). Based on this material, we analyzed population fluctuation, breeding season, sexual size dimorphism, sexual maturity, and litter size. We also hypothesized that geographic variables (elevation, rainfall, temperature, longitude, and latitude) influence key life history traits, such as size at birth and litter size. Overall, N. lasiurus showed plastic reproductive patterns, with few traits shared among populations. Notably, there is strong seasonal variation in population fluctuation patterns, breeding events clumped in early dry season and old individuals distributed throughout all the year, as has been seen for populations in other biomes. Geography had no influence on size at birth but litter size was explained by the interaction between maternal weight and geographical variables. Plastic life history traits so intimately responsive to climatological variables likely contribute to N. lasiurus having one of the largest geographic ranges among Neotropical cricetids, as well as to its status as the most important plague reservoir in the Caatinga domain.
The FLAMINGO project: cosmological hydrodynamical simulations for large-scale structure and galaxy cluster surveys
Authors: Schaye Joop , Kugel Roi , Schaller Matthieu , Helly John C , Braspenning Joey , Elbers Willem , McCarthy Ian G , van Daalen Marcel P , Vandenbroucke Bert , Frenk Carlos S , Kwan Juliana , Salcido Jaime , Bahé Yannick M , Borrow Josh , Chaikin Evgenii , Hahn Oliver , Huško Filip , Jenkins Adrian , Lacey Cedric G , Nobels Folkert S J
Published: August 2023

We introduce the Virgo Consortium’s FLAMINGO suite of hydrodynamical simulations for cosmology and galaxy cluster physics. To ensure the simulations are sufficiently realistic for studies of large-scale structure, the subgrid prescriptions for stellar and AGN feedback are calibrated to the observed low-redshift galaxy stellar mass function and cluster gas fractions. The calibration is performed using machine learning, separately for each of FLAMINGO’s three resolutions. This approach enables specification of the model by the observables to which they are calibrated. The calibration accounts for a number of potential observational biases and for random errors in the observed stellar masses. The two most demanding simulations have box sizes of 1.0 and 2.8 Gpc on a side and baryonic particle masses of 1 × 108 and $1\times 10^9\, \text{M}_\odot$, respectively. For the latter resolution, the suite includes 12 model variations in a 1 Gpc box. There are 8 variations at fixed cosmology, including shifts in the stellar mass function and/or the cluster gas fractions to which we calibrate, and two alternative implementations of AGN feedback (thermal or jets). The remaining 4 variations use the unmodified calibration data but different cosmologies, including different neutrino masses. The 2.8 Gpc simulation follows 3 × 1011 particles, making it the largest ever hydrodynamical simulation run to z = 0. Light-cone output is produced on-the-fly for up to 8 different observers. We investigate numerical convergence, show that the simulations reproduce the calibration data, and compare with a number of galaxy, cluster, and large-scale structure observations, finding very good agreement with the data for converged predictions. Finally, by comparing hydrodynamical and ‘dark-matter-only’ simulations, we confirm that baryonic effects can suppress the halo mass function and the matter power spectrum by up to ≈20 per cent.
Dwarf galaxy discoveries from the KMTNet supernova programme – III. The Milky-Way analogue NGC 2997 group
Authors: Fan Tony Junjing , Moon Dae-Sik , Park Hong Soo , Zaritsky Dennis , Kim Sang Chul , Lee Youngdae , Li Ting S , Ni Yuan Qi , Shin Jeehye , Cha Sang-Mok , Lee Yongseok
Published: August 2023

We present the discovery of 48 new and the analysis of 55, including seven previously discovered dwarf galaxy candidates (DGCs) around the giant spiral galaxy NGC 2997 using deep BVI images from the Korea Microlensing Telescope Network Supernova Programme. Their V-band central surface brightness and total absolute magnitudes are in the range of 20.3–26.7 mag arcsec−2 and −(8.02–17.69) mag, respectively, while the I-band effective radii are 0.14–2.97 kpc. We obtain $\alpha \, \simeq$ −1.43 ± 0.02 for the faint-end slope of their luminosity function, comparable to previously measured values but shallower than theoretical predictions based on Λ cold dark matter models. The distance-independent distributions of their mass and colour suggest that the group could have recently accreted new massive members from the surrounding fields. The systematically bluer colours of the brighter members indicate younger stellar population and higher star formation activities in them, which appears to be consistent with similar findings from the SAGA or ELVES survey. We suggest that the massive and bluer dwarf galaxies in the group have experienced less environmental quenching due to their recent accretion, while environmental quenching has been more effective for the low-mass members. The interpretation of NGC 2997 being populationally young with recent accretion of massive members is also consistent with the overall morphological distribution of the dwarf galaxies showing a lack of morphologically evolved candidates but a plethora of irregularly shaped ones. Our detection rate of DGCs in the NGC 2997 group and their inferred star formation activities are comparable to those found in Milky Way analogue systems from recent surveys within the magnitude limit M$_{V}\, \lesssim$ −13 mag.
Influence of donor sex and age on graft outcome in kidney transplantation
Authors: Melk Anette , Sugianto Rizky I , Zhang Xun , Dahhou Mourad , Döhler Bernd , Süsal Caner , Sapir-Pichhadze Ruth , Wong Germaine , Foster Bethany J
Published: August 2023

Background

There is a known recipient sex–dependent association between donor sex and kidney transplant survival. We hypothesized that donor age also modifies the association between donor sex and graft survival.

Methods

First, deceased donor kidney transplant recipients (1988–2019, n = 461 364) recorded in the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry and the Collaborative Transplant Study were analyzed. We used multivariable Cox regression models to estimate the association between donor sex and death censored graft loss, accounting for the modifying effects of recipient sex and donor age; donor age was categorized as 5–19, 20–34, 35–49, 50–59 and ≥60 years. Results from cohort-specific Cox models were combined using individual patient data meta-analysis.

Results

Among female recipients of donors aged <60 years, graft loss hazards did not differ by donor sex; recipients of female donors ≥60 years showed significantly lower graft loss hazards than recipients of male donors of the same age [combined adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.90, 95% CI 0.86–0.94]. Among male recipients, female donors aged <50 years were associated with significantly higher graft loss hazards than same-aged male donors (5–19 years: aHR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.21; 20–34 years: aHR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02–1.15; 35–49 years: aHR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.10). There were no significant differences in graft loss by donor sex among male recipients of donors aged ≥50 years.

Conclusion

Donor age modifies the association between donor sex and graft survival. Older female donors were associated with similar or lower hazards of graft failure than older male donors in both male and female recipients, suggesting a better functional reserve of older female donor kidneys.
Reactions to Messages About a Nicotine Reduction Policy: A Focus Group Study Among People Who Use Little Cigars and Cigarillos
Authors: Ntansah Charity A , Hackworth Emily E , Henderson Katherine C , Reynolds Reed M , Yang Bo , Ashley David L , Duong Hue Trong , Thrasher James F , Popova Lucy
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed rulemaking to reduce the nicotine content in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products to non-addictive levels. This qualitative study documents reactions to messages communicating this policy among people who use little cigars and cigarillos (LCCs).

Aims and Methods

We conducted eight focus groups with participants from four populations with the highest prevalence of cigar use (African American males and females, white males and females). Participants described their reactions to eight messages about the policy: Three messages about the equal risk of LCCs with regular and low nicotine levels; three quit efficacy messages about low nicotine LCCs being easier to quit; one “compensation” message to correct misperceptions about the policy causing people to smoke more to get desired nicotine; and one message about using alternative nicotine sources (eg, e-cigarettes).

Results

Participants perceived risk messages as the most motivating to quit, whereas efficacy messages made some participants feel that the policy would cause former users of LCCs to relapse. Many participants expressed favorable responses to the compensation message. The message about using alternative nicotine sources sparked intense responses, with many participants expressing outrage and mistrust of the message. Participants’ beliefs that they were not addicted to LCCs dampened their perceptions of the effectiveness of the policy.

Conclusions

Perceptions of the addictiveness and relative harms of LCCS influenced responses to policy messages. The FDA should consider using different messages to communicate with people who use LCCs because they perceive LCCs as different from cigarettes.

Implications

This is the first study to document affective and cognitive responses to the FDA’s reduced nicotine policy among people who use LCCs. The false belief that cigar products are less harmful than cigarettes may be influencing people’s lack of support for the reduced nicotine policy and difficulty in understanding its potential positive impact. To maximize the public health benefit of the reduced nicotine policy, the FDA should include LCC products in the policy; however, it is crucial that they use educational messaging to clarify misperceptions regarding nicotine and harm as it applies to LCCs.
Metarules, Judgment and the Algorithmic Future of Financial Regulation in the UK
Authors: Georgosouli Andromachi
Published: August 2023

UK financial regulators are experimenting with the conversion of rulebook content into machine-readable and executable code. A major driver of these initiatives is the belief that the use of algorithms will eliminate the need for human interpretation as a deliberative process, and that this would be a welcome development because it will improve effectiveness while cutting time and costs for regulators and the industry alike. In this article, I set out to explain why human interpretation should be preserved and further harnessed if data-driven governance is to work at all. To support my thesis, I bring attention to the limited translatability of rulebook content into code, and to the difficulties for machines to engage with the full spectrum of tasks of analogical reasoning. I further contend that it would be desirable to preserve human interpretation on procedural grounds pertaining to the legitimacy of financial regulators. I conclude with recommendations about the future design of the financial rulebooks.
Rousseau’s Republican Judges
Authors: Winter Stephen
Published: August 2023

Judges occupy important roles in Rousseau’s constitutional theory. Placing the Social Contract alongside Rousseau’s lesser-known Letters Written from the Mountain and The Government of Poland, this article examines how Rousseau constructs judicial institutions and explores a problem he confronts. Although necessary for the republic to enjoy the rule of law, Rousseau worries that adjudicative bodies threaten the citizens’ freedom. This article describes Rousseau’s constitutional solution, which combines a conservative-yet-progressive legislative ethos, with pluralist institutionalism and judicial non-professionalism.
The Necessity of Institutional Pluralism
Authors: Dorfman Avihay , Harel Alon
Published: August 2023

This article defends the claim that the institutional source of a legal norm—be it the constitution, legislation or whatever—affects its nature and value. We argue that institutions are not merely vessels through which norms get public recognition. When different institutions use identically worded norms, say, ‘everyone is equally entitled to X’, they may nevertheless produce different norms and provide different goods. For instance, a constitutional protection of a basic right differs from a statutory right to the same right not (only) because the former is less likely to be changed, but (also) because a constitutional decision marks the right in question as one that makes no essential reference to the actual choice of the majority of the political community. We extend this argument to other institutional settings, especially the common law tradition of judge-made law.
Healthiness as a Virtue: The Healthism of mHealth and the Challenges to Public Health
Authors: Wieczorek Michał , Rossmaier Leon Walter Sebastian
Published: August 2023

Mobile health (mHealth) technologies for self-monitoring health-relevant parameters such as heart frequency, sleeping patterns or exercise regimes aim at fostering healthy behavior change and increasing the individual users to promote and maintain their health. We argue that this aspect of mHealth supports healthism, the increasing shift from institutional responsibility for public health toward individual engagement in maintaining health as well as mitigating health risks. Moreover, this healthist paradigm leads to a shift from understanding health as the absence of illness to regarding health as the performance of certain rituals in order to project healthiness. By drawing from the analogy between healthiness and traditional virtues, we evaluate the promises made by proponents of mHealth technologies for self-monitoring. We argue that the implementation and use of mHealth risk entrenching existing inequalities and, more particularly, tend to exclude populations situated at the losing end of those inequalities from participating in the quasi-virtue of healthiness. Consequently, the implementation and use of mHealth technologies not only present challenges for social justice but also undermine their primary societal goal—to promote public health. Finally, we offer several suggestions on how to realize the potential benefit of mHealth.
An implementation of the matrix method using the Chebyshev grid
Authors: Shen Shui-Fa , Qian Wei-Liang , Guo Hong , Zhang Shao-Jun , Li Jin
Published: August 2023

In this work, we explore the properties of the matrix method for black hole quasinormal modes on the nonuniform grid. In particular, the method is implemented to be adapted to the Chebyshev grid, aimed at effectively suppressing Runge’s phenomenon. It is found that while such an implementation is favorable from a mathematical point of view, in practice, the increase in precision does not necessarily compensate for the penalty in computational time. On the other hand, the original matrix method, though subject to Runge’s phenomenon, is shown to be reasonably robust and suffices for most applications with a moderate grid number. In terms of computational time and obtained significant figures, we carried out an analysis regarding the trade-off between the two aspects. The implications of the present study are also addressed.
Sea contribution to the charge radii and quadrupole moment of JP ½+, ³⁄₂+ baryons
Authors: Bhall Preeti , Batra Meenakshi , Upadhyay A
Published: August 2023

An operator formalism is used on the wave function of baryons to compute their charge radii and quadrupole moments. The total anti-symmetric wave function in spin, color, and flavor space is framed for $J^P=\frac{1}{2}^+$ nucleons and $J^P=\frac{3}{2}^+$ hyperons. To understand the importance of the sea, a statistical model is used in conjugation with the detailed balance principle. Within the statistical approach, the importance of the sea with quarks and gluons are studied using the relevant probabilities that are associated with spin, flavor, and color space. The present work also focuses on individual contributions of valence and sea which contains terms of the scalar, vector, and tensor seas. The obtained results are in agreement with available theories and a few experimental outcomes. Our computed results may provide important information for upcoming experimental findings.
Effects of Exercise on Structural and Functional Brain Patterns in Schizophrenia—Data From a Multicenter Randomized-Controlled Study
Authors: Roell Lukas , Keeser Daniel , Papazov Boris , Lembeck Moritz , Papazova Irina , Greska David , Muenz Susanne , Schneider-Axmann Thomas , Sykorova Eliska B , Thieme Christina E , Vogel Bob O , Mohnke Sebastian , Huppertz Charlotte , Roeh Astrid , Keller-Varady Katriona , Malchow Berend , Stoecklein Sophia , Ertl-Wagner Birgit , Henkel Karsten , Wolfarth Bernd , Tantchik Wladimir , Walter Henrik , Hirjak Dusan , Schmitt Andrea , Hasan Alkomiet , Meyer-Lindenberg Andreas , Falkai Peter , Maurus Isabel
Published: August 2023

Background and Hypothesis

Aerobic exercise interventions in people with schizophrenia have been demonstrated to improve clinical outcomes, but findings regarding the underlying neural mechanisms are limited and mainly focus on the hippocampal formation. Therefore, we conducted a global exploratory analysis of structural and functional neural adaptations after exercise and explored their clinical implications.

Study Design

In this randomized controlled trial, structural and functional MRI data were available for 91 patients with schizophrenia who performed either aerobic exercise on a bicycle ergometer or underwent a flexibility, strengthening, and balance training as control group. We analyzed clinical and neuroimaging data before and after 6 months of regular exercise. Bayesian linear mixed models and Bayesian logistic regressions were calculated to evaluate effects of exercise on multiple neural outcomes and their potential clinical relevance.

Study Results

Our results indicated that aerobic exercise in people with schizophrenia led to structural and functional adaptations mainly within the default-mode network, the cortico-striato-pallido-thalamo-cortical loop, and the cerebello-thalamo-cortical pathway. We further observed that volume increases in the right posterior cingulate gyrus as a central node of the default-mode network were linked to improvements in disorder severity.

Conclusions

These exploratory findings suggest a positive impact of aerobic exercise on 3 cerebral networks that are involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.

Clinical Trials Registration

The underlying study of this manuscript was registered in the International Clinical Trials Database, ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT number: NCT03466112, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03466112?term=NCT03466112&draw=2&rank=1) and in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00009804).
Hexaconazole exposure disrupt acetylcholinesterase, leading to mental illness
Authors: Ali Abuzer , Abdi Sayed Aliul Hasan , Ali Amena , Ahmad Wasim
Published: August 2023

Hexaconazole is widely used in agricultural work, and it has been observed that it has potential to disrupt endocrine function and it has also capacity of bioaccumulation. In this study, we examined how the hexaconazole disrupts the usual balance of acetylcholinesterase. It has been already reported that heavy pesticide exposures may be a reason for several mental illnesses because these pesticides may disrupt normal balance of acetylcholinesterase. In this paper, we have done a complete molecular and dynamics analysis to understand the behavior of hexaconazole with acetylcholinesterase so that its toxicological aspect may be explored. Our findings revealed that hexaconazole has potency to interact with acetylcholinesterase in a stable manner. The binding energy of hexaconazole was found to be −7.95 kcal/mol. However, chlorpyrifos, known inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase, has binding energy of −7.17 kcal/mol. With respect to stability analysis, hexaconazole has similar stability like chlorpyrifos. Root-mean-square deviation, root-mean-square fluctuation, radius of gyration, hydrogen bonding, and solvent accessible surface area were similar to chlorpyrifos. In addition, density functional theory computations analysis reveals that hexaconazole is energetically stable like chlorpyrifos, which is necessary for establishing a stable ligand–protein complex. The result of this complete molecular analysis reveals that hexaconazole may disrupt the acetylcholinesterase balance, which leads to mental illness.
Long chain acyl‐CoA synthetase 6 facilitates the local distribution of di‐docosahexaenoic acid‐ and ultra‐long‐chain‐PUFA‐containing phospholipids in the retina to support normal visual function in mice
Authors: Kuroha Sayoko , Katada Yusaku , Isobe Yosuke , Uchino Haruki , Shishikura Kyosuke , Nirasawa Takashi , Tsubota Kazuo , Negishi Kazuno , Kurihara Toshihide , Arita Makoto
Published: August 2023

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and ultra‐long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (ULC–PUFAs) are uniquely enriched in membrane phospholipids of retinal photoreceptors. Several studies have shown that di‐DHA‐ and ULC–PUFA‐containing phospholipids in photoreceptors have an important role in maintaining normal visual function; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the synthesis and enrichment of these unique lipids in the retina, and their specific roles in retinal function remain unclear. Long‐chain acyl‐coenzyme A (CoA) synthetase 6 (ACSL6) preferentially converts DHA into DHA–CoA, which is a substrate during DHA‐containing lipid biosynthesis. Here, we report that Acsl6 mRNA is expressed in the inner segment of photoreceptor cells and the retinal pigment epithelial cells, and genetic deletion of ACSL6 resulted in the selective depletion of di‐DHA– and ULC–PUFA‐containing phospholipids, but not mono‐DHA‐containing phospholipids in the retina. MALDI mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI–MSI) revealed the selective distribution of di‐DHA– and ULC–PUFA‐containing phospholipids in the photoreceptor outer segment (OS). Electroretinogram of Acsl6−/− mice exhibited photoreceptor cell‐derived visual impairment, whereas the expression levels and localization of opsin proteins were unchanged. Acsl6−/− mice exhibited an age‐dependent progressive decrease of the thickness of the outer nuclear layers, whereas the inner nuclear layers and OSs were normal. These results demonstrate that ACSL6 facilitates the local enrichment of di‐DHA– and ULC–PUFA‐containing phospholipids in the retina, which supports normal visual function and retinal homeostasis.
Enhanced recovery programme after colorectal surgery in high-income and low-middle income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Slim Naim , Teng Wai Huang , Shakweh Ealaff , Sylvester Helena-Colling , Awad Mina , Schembri Rebecca , Hermena Shady , Chowdhary Manish , Oodit Ravi , Francis Nader
Published: August 2023

Background:

Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) protocols strive to optimise outcomes following elective surgery, however there is a dearth of evidence to support its equitable application and efficacy internationally.

Materials & Methods:

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on the uptake and impact of ERAS with the aim of highlighting differences in implementation and outcomes across high-income (HICs) and low-middle-income countries (LMICs). The primary outcome was characterisation of global ERAS uptake. Secondary outcomes included length of hospital stay (LOS), 30-day readmission, 30-day mortality and post-operative complications.

Results:

337 studies with considerable heterogeneity were included in the analysis (291 from HICs, and 46 from LMICs) with a total of 110,190 patients. The weighted median number of implemented elements were similar between HICs and LMICs (P=0·94), but there was a trend towards greater uptake of less affordable elements across all aspects of the ERAS pathway in HICs. The mean LOS was significantly shorter in patient cohorts in HICs (5·85 days versus 7·17 days in LMICs, P<0·001). The 30-day readmission rate was higher in HICs (8·5% vs. 4·25% in LMICs, P<0·001, but no overall world-wide effect when ERAS compared to controls (OR 1·00, 95% CI 0·88—1·13). There were no reported differences in complications (P=0·229) or 30-day mortality (P=0·949).

Conclusion:

Considerable variation in the structure, the implementation and outcomes of ERAS exists between HICs and LMICs, where affordable elements are implemented, contributing towards longer LOS in LMICs. Global efforts are required to ensure equitable access, effective ERAS implementation and a higher standard of perioperative care world-wide.
High visceral fat-to-muscle ratio predicated a recurrent fistula after definitive surgery for a small intestinal fistula with diffuse extensive abdominal adhesions: a cohort study
Authors: Tian Weiliang , Xu Xin , Zhao Risheng , Tian Tao , Li Wuhan , Huang Ming , Zhao Yunzhao , Yao Zheng
Published: August 2023

Background:

In patients diagnosed with sarcopenia, the presence of chronic preoperative inflammation, assessed by the ratio of visceral fat area (VFA) to the total abdominal muscle area index (TAMAI) (VFA/TAMAI), has been found to adversely affect wound healing. An elevated VFA/TAMAI may contribute to a higher incidence of postoperative recurrent fistulas (RFs) following definitive surgery (DS) for small intestinal fistulas accompanied by diffuse extensive abdominal adhesions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of VFA/TAMAI for postoperative RFs.

Methods:

The study enrolled 183 sarcopenic patients, with a median age of 51 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 38-61 y), a median body mass index of 19.6 kg/m2 (IQR: 18.9-21.0 kg/m2) who underwent DS for small intestinal fistulas between January 2018 and October 2022 were included in the multicenter study. The outcomes assessed were RFs and postoperative length of stay (LOS). VFA/TAMAI was examined as a potential risk factor for each outcome.

Results:

Out of the 183 patients, 20.2% (n=37) developed RFs. The multivariate regression analysis identified VFA/TAMAI as the sole factor associated with RFs (odds ratio=1.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09-2.87, P=0.02). The multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated that an elevated VFA/TAMAI was linked to a reduced postoperative LOS (hazard ratio=0.69, 95% CI: 0.59 - 0.81, P<0.001).

Conclusion:

In sarcopenic patients, a high VFA/TAMAI predicated the occurrence of RFs after DS for small intestinal fistulas in the presence of diffuse extensive abdominal adhesions.
Clinico-characteristics of patients which correlated with preferable treatment outcomes in immunotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yani , Lau Wanyee , Li Yafei , Tian Yichen , Lei Yongrong , Wang Jianhua , Xia Feng
Published: August 2023

Background & Aims:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most lethal malignant tumor worldwide. The rapid development of immunotherapy utilizing immune checkpoint inhibitors for advanced HCC patients has been witnessed in recent years, along with numerous randomized clinical trials (RCTs) demonstrating the survival benefits for these individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify specific clinico-pathological characteristics of advanced HCC patients that may lead to preferable responses to immunotherapy in terms of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and objective response rate (ORR).

Methods:

The included clinical trials were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and Web of Science databases published in English between January 1, 2002, and October 20, 2022. A systematic review and meta-analysis for first and second-line phase II/III studies were conducted on immunotherapy for patients with advanced HCC by using OS as the primary outcome measure, and PFS and ORR as the secondary outcome measures to obtain clinico-pathological characteristics of patients which might be preferable responses to PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors. Toxicity and specific treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were also determined.

Results:

After screening 1392 relevant studies, 12 studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis to include 5948 patients. Based on the analysis of interaction, the difference in OS after first-line immunotherapy between the subgroups of viral hepatitis (HR=0.73 vs 0.87, p for interaction=0.02) and microvascular invasion (MVI) and/or extrahepatic spread (EHS) (HR=0.73 vs 0.89, p for interaction=0.02) were significant. The difference in PFS between the subgroups of viral hepatitis was highly significant (pooled HR=0.55 vs 0.81, p for interaction=0.007). After second-line immunotherapy, the difference in ORR between the subgroups of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer was significant (pooled ES=0.12 vs 0.23, p for interaction=0.04). Compared with programmed cell death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors, programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitors may have a higher probability to cause TRAEs. Diarrhea, increased aspartate aminotransferase and hypertension were the top 3 TRAEs.

Conclusions:

This systematic review and meta-analysis represents the first pilot study aimed at identifying crucial clinico-pathological characteristics of patients with advanced HCC that may predict favorable treatment outcomes in terms of OS、PFS and ORR to immunotherapy. Findings suggest that patients with viral hepatitis positivity (especially hepatitis B virus) and MVI and/or EHS may benefit more in OS when treated with PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Evaluation of postoperative outcomes of minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy for left-sided pancreatic tumors based on the modified frailty index: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Park Yejong , Hwang Dae Wook , Lee Jae Hoon , Song Ki Byung , Jun Eunsung , Lee Woohyung , Kwak Bong Jun , Kim Song Cheol
Published: August 2023

Background:

This study compared the postoperative outcomes of minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP) for left-sided pancreatic tumors based on the modified frailty index (mFI).

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study included 2,212 patients who underwent MIDP for left-sided pancreatic tumors between 2005 and 2019. Postoperative outcomes, including complications (morbidity and mortality), were analyzed using mFI, and the participants were divided into two groups: frail (n=79) and nonfrail (n=2,133). A subanalysis of 495 MIDPs for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma was conducted to compare oncological outcomes.

Results:

Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula was significantly higher in the frail group than in the nonfrail group. A significant between-group difference was observed in overall complications with Clavien−Dindo classification grade ≥III. Furthermore, the proportion of all complications before readmission was higher in the frail group than in the nonfrail group. Among all readmitted patients, the frail group had a higher number of grade ≥IV patients requiring intensive care unit treatment. The frail group’s 90-day mortality was 1.3%; the difference was statistically significant (nonfrail: 0.3%, P=0.021). In the univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, mFI ≥0.27 (odds ratio 3.231, 95% confidence interval 1.889−5.523, P<0.001), extended pancreatectomy, body mass index ≥30 kg/m2, male sex, and malignancy were risk factors for Clavien–Dindo classification grade ≥III.

Conclusion:

mFI is a potential preoperative tool for predicting severe postoperative complications, including mortality, in patients who have undergone MIDP for left-sided tumors.
Digital solutions and the future of recovery after critical illness
Authors: Rose Louise , Cox Christopher E.
Published: August 2023

Purpose of review

Digital technologies may address known physical and psychological barriers to recovery experienced by intensive care survivors following hospital discharge and provide solutions to care fragmentation and unmet needs. The review highlights recent examples of digital technologies designed to support recovery of survivors of critically illness.

Recent findings

Despite proliferation of digital technologies supporting health in the community, there are relatively few examples for intensive care survivors. Those we identified included web-based, app-based or telemedicine-informed recovery clinics or pathways offering services, including informational resources, care planning and navigation support, medication reconciliation, and recovery goal setting. Digital interventions supporting psychological recovery included apps providing adaptive coping skills training, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural therapy. Efficacy data are limited, although feasibility and acceptability have been established for some. Challenges include difficulties identifying participants most likely to benefit and delivery in a format easily accessible to all, with digital exclusion a resultant risk.

Digital interventions supporting recovery comprise web or app-based recovery clinics or pathways and digital delivery of psychological interventions. Understanding of efficacy is relatively nascent, although several studies demonstrate feasibility and acceptability. Future research is needed but should be mindful of the risk of digital exclusion.