bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turbine Vane Passage Experiments Documenting Evolution of Secondary Flows With Changes in Combustor Coolant Injection Flowrates
Authors: Nawathe Kedar P. , Kim Yong W. , Simon Terrence W.
Published: December 2022

A secondary flow system with a dominant passage vortex pattern has been observed in many gas turbine vane passage studies in which there is no upstream coolant injection or only near-passage endwall coolant injection (no combustor cooling). However, it was shown in recent studies that combustor coolant introduced upstream of the vane passage changes secondary flow patterns in the passage. This results in a different secondary flow vortex system, called the “impingement vortex” system. It was discussed in recent literature having combustor coolant injection. Until now, there has been no study on how increases in combustor coolant momentum effect transition from the passage vortex system to the impingement vortex system. Such a study is presented in the present paper. Velocity component measurements are taken using a five-hole probe at three axial locations in the vane passage to document secondary flow development throughout the passage. Four combustor coolant flowrate cases are considered along with a comparison case having no coolant injection. It is shown that as the combustor coolant flowrate increases, the passage vortex system weakens and, at a sufficiently high combustor coolant flowrate, the impingement vortex system appears. Knowing the detailed flow physics of this transition between the two secondary flow systems is helpful for turbine thermal designers who wish to understand how secondary flows transport coolant within the turbine vane passage.
Giant electric field–induced strain in lead-free piezoceramics
Authors: Huangfu Geng , Zeng Kun , Wang Binquan , Wang Jie , Fu Zhengqian , Xu Fangfang , Zhang Shujun , Luo Haosu , Viehland Dwight , Guo Yiping
Published: December 2022

Piezoelectric actuators are indispensable over a wide range of industries for their fast response and precise displacement. Most commercial piezoelectric actuators contain lead, posing environmental challenges. We show that a giant strain (1.05%) and a large-signal piezoelectric strain coefficient (2100 picometer/volt) are achieved in strontium (Sr)–doped (K,Na)NbO
3
lead-free piezoceramics, being synthesized by the conventional solid-state reaction method without any post treatment. The underlying mechanism responsible for the ultrahigh electrostrain is the interaction between defect dipoles and domain switching. The fatigue resistance, thermal stability, and strain value (0.25%) at 20 kilovolt/centimeter are comparable with or better than those of commercial Pb(Zr,Ti)O
3
-based ceramics, showing great potential for practical applications. This material may provide a lead-free alternative with a simple composition for piezoelectric actuators and a paradigm for the design of high-performance piezoelectrics.
Strengthen oversight of risky research on pathogens
Authors: Pannu Jaspreet , Palmer Megan J. , Cicero Anita , Relman David A. , Lipsitch Marc , Inglesby Tom
Published: December 2022

Policy reset and convergence on governance are needed
Thank you, Tony!
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: December 2022

Anthony Fauci—“Tony” to friends, colleagues, and many journalists—has never backed down from controversy. During the worst of the AIDS crisis, when HIV infection was a death sentence, he was targeted by protestors frustrated by the US government’s sluggish response. Instead of ignoring their complaints, Fauci listened, acted, and eventually came to be seen as an ally to activists, all the while battling charlatans who tried to insist that HIV didn’t cause AIDS. When the COVID-19 pandemic came along, the long-time director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases was a natural choice to help lead the country’s response, and he soon became one of the most recognizable physician-scientists in the world. Fauci recently announced that he would end his time in the federal government in December 2022. He sat down with me to talk about the challenges facing science and his plans for the future. The full transcript of our interview, which is filled with valuable insights into science policy and communication, is posted on the Editor’s Blog, but I wanted to share a few highlights here.
In Other Journals
Authors: Smith H. Jesse , Ash Caroline , Vignieri Sacha , Scanlon Seth Thomas , Simonti Corinne , Osborne Ian S. , Stajic Jelena
Published: December 2022

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
In China, ‘zero COVID’ has become a Catch-22
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: December 2022

Population chafes at control measures, but lifting them now would carry huge risks
Early Genomic Surveillance and Phylogeographic Analysis of Getah Virus, a Reemerging Arbovirus, in Livestock in China
Authors: Zhao Jin , Dellicour Simon , Yan Ziqing , Veit Michael , Gill Mandev S. , He Wan-Ting , Zhai Xiaofeng , Ji Xiang , Suchard Marc A. , Lemey Philippe , Su Shuo
Published: December 2022

Although livestock is known to be the primary reservoir of Getah virus (GETV) in Asian countries, where identification is largely based on serology, the evolutionary history and spatial epidemiology of GETV in these regions remain largely unknown. Through our sequencing efforts, we provided robust support for lineage delineation of GETV and identified three major lineages that are responsible for the current epidemic in livestock in China.
Enterovirus-Cardiomyocyte Interactions: Impact of Terminally Deleted Genomic RNAs on Viral and Host Functions
Authors: Bouin Alexis , Vu Michelle N. , Al-Hakeem Ali , Tran Genevieve P. , Nguyen Joseph H. C. , Semler Bert L.
Published: December 2022

Enteroviruses like coxsackievirus B3 are able to initiate acute infections of cardiac tissue and, in some cases, to establish a long-term persistent infection that can lead to serious disease sequelae, including dilated cardiomyopathy. Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of 5′ terminally deleted forms of enterovirus RNAs in heart tissues derived from patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.
Taxonomic and Metagenomic Analyses Define the Development of the Microbiota in the Chick
Authors: Bogomolnaya Lydia , Talamantes Marissa , Rocha Joana , Nagarajan Aravindh , Zhu Wenhan , Spiga Luisella , Winter Maria G. , Konganti Kranti , Adams L. Garry , Winter Sebastian , Andrews-Polymenis Helene
Published: December 2022

Chicks are an ideal model to follow the development of the intestinal microbiota and to understand how a pathogen perturbs this developing population. Using taxonomic and metagenomic analyses, we captured the development of chick microbiota to 19 days posthatch in unperturbed chicks and in chicks infected with
Salmonella enterica
serotype Typhimurium (STm).
A Small Molecule Inhibitor of Erg251 Makes Fluconazole Fungicidal by Inhibiting the Synthesis of the 14α-Methylsterols
Authors: Lu Hui , Li Wanqian , Whiteway Malcolm , Wang Hongkang , Zhu Shuo , Ji Zhe , Feng Yanru , Yan Lan , Fang Ting , Li Liping , Ni Tingjunhong , Zhang Xiaolong , Lv Quanzhen , Ding Zichao , Qiu Lijuan , Zhang Dazhi , Jiang Yuanying
Published: December 2022

Fluconazole (FLC) tolerance increases the frequency of acquired FLC resistance, and a high FLC tolerance level is associated with persistent candidemia. Multiple functional proteins, such as calcineurin, heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), and ADP ribosylation factor, are essential for the survival of
C. albicans
exposed to FLC, but how these factors increase the fungicidal activity of FLC remains to be determined.
Impact of Growth Rate on the Protein-mRNA Ratio in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Zhang Mengshi , Michie Kelly L. , Cornforth Daniel M. , Dolan Stephen K. , Wang Yifei , Whiteley Marvin
Published: December 2022

Our understanding of bacterial physiology during human infection is limited by the difficulty in assessing bacterial function at the infection site. Recent studies have begun to address this question by quantifying bacterial mRNA levels in human-derived samples using transcriptomics.
High Level of Interaction between Phages and Bacteria in an Artisanal Raw Milk Cheese Microbial Community
Authors: Queiroz Luciano Lopes , Lacorte Gustavo Augusto , Isidorio William Ricardo , Landgraf Mariza , de Melo Franco Bernadette Dora Gombossy , Pinto Uelinton Manoel , Hoffmann Christian
Published: December 2022

Our work demonstrated a dynamic yet stable microbial ecosystem during cheese production using an endogenous starter culture. This was observed across several distinct producers and was marked by genomic evidence of continued phage-bacterium interactions, such as the presence of bacterial defense mechanisms.
Epstein-Barr Virus Regulates Endothelin-1 Expression through the ERK/FOXO1 Pathway in EBV-Associated Gastric Cancer
Authors: Liu Wen , Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Yan , Sun Lingling , Xiao Hua , Luo Bing
Published: December 2022

The relationship between Epstein-Barr virus and gastric cancer has been relatively clear. However, there are still many unresolved mechanisms of the virus in tumorigenesis.
Polynucleotide Phosphorylase Mediates a New Mechanism of Persister Formation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Wu Nan , Zhang Yumeng , Zhang Shanshan , Yuan Youhua , Liu Shuang , Xu Tao , Cui Peng , Zhang Wenhong , Zhang Ying
Published: December 2022

Persisters pose significant challenges for a more effective treatment of persistent infections. An improved understanding of mechanisms of persistence will provide therapeutic targets important for the development of better treatments.
PBP Target Profiling by β-Lactam and β-Lactamase Inhibitors in Intact Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Effects of the Intrinsic and Acquired Resistance Determinants on the Periplasmic Drug Availability
Authors: Montaner Maria , Lopez-Argüello Silvia , Oliver Antonio , Moya Bartolome
Published: December 2022

The growing problem of antibiotic resistance in Gram-negative pathogens is linked to three key aspects, (i) the progressive worldwide epidemic spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and pandrug-resistant (PDR) Gram-negative strains, (ii) a decrease in the number of effective new antibiotics against multiresistant isolates, and (iii) the lack of mechanistically informed combinations and dosing strategies. Our combined efforts should focus not only on the development of new antimicrobial agents but the adequate administration of these in combination with other agents currently available in the clinic.
Improved Assembly of Metagenome-Assembled Genomes and Viruses in Tibetan Saline Lake Sediment by HiFi Metagenomic Sequencing
Authors: Tao Ye , Xun Fan , Zhao Cheng , Mao Zhendu , Li Biao , Xing Peng , Wu Qinglong L.
Published: December 2022

To expand the understanding of microbial dark matter in the environment, we did the first comparative evaluation of multiple assembly strategies based on high-throughput short-read and HiFi data from lake sediments metagenomic sequencing. The results demonstrated great improvement of the ‘Hybrid’ assembly method (short-read next-generation sequencing data plus HiFi data) in the recovery of medium/high-quality MAGs and viral genomes.
In Vitro
Modulation of Rumen Fermentation by Microbiota from the Recombination of Rumen Fluid and Solid Phases
Authors: Zhao Wei , Abdelsattar Mahmoud M. , Wang Xin , Zhang Naifeng , Chai Jianmin
Published: December 2022

This is the first study to systematically evaluate the
in vitro
fermentation efficiency of diets by bacteria harvested and recombined from the fluid and solid phases of rumen contents, and it took into account the effect of washing the rumen solid phase. Using “reconstituted rumen content”, this study confirmed that bacteria from different fractions of the rumen digesta resulted in different fermentation production of diets and found the characteristic bacteria in each phase of rumen contents.
Validity of Platelia Aspergillus IgG and Aspergillus Precipitin Test To Distinguish Pulmonary Aspergillosis from Colonization
Authors: Shinfuku Kyota , Suzuki Junko , Takeda Keita , Kawashima Masahiro , Morio Yoshiteru , Sasaki Yuka , Nagai Hideaki , Watanabe Akira , Matsui Hirotoshi , Kamei Katsuhiko
Published: December 2022

Pulmonary aspergillosis is the most common pulmonary fungal infection. However,
Aspergillus
is a ubiquitous, saprophytic fungus; it can be detected in respiratory specimens even in the absence of infection.
Clonal Complex 12 Serotype Ib Streptococcus agalactiae Strain Causing Complicated Sepsis in Neonates: Clinical Features and Genetic Characteristics
Authors: Hsu Jen-Fu , Chen Yu-Ning , Chu Shih-Ming , Lee Wei-Ju , Huang Hsuan-Rong , Chiang Ming-Chou , Yang Peng-Hong , Tsai Ming-Horng , Lu Jang-Jih
Published: December 2022

A type Ib ST12 GBS strain is not a common isolate in neonatal invasive diseases and has been ignored for a long time. However, the recent literature and our data showed that such a GBS strain is associated with a significantly higher risk of severe sepsis, higher illness severity, and a significantly higher rate of sepsis-attributable mortality.
Sotrovimab in Hospitalized Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant Infection: a Propensity Score-Matched Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Woo Marcel S. , Brehm Thomas Theo , Fischer Marlene , Heyer Andreas , Wichmann Dominic , Jordan Sabine , Nörz Dominik , Lütgehetmann Marc , Addo Marylyn M. , Lohse Ansgar W. , Schmiedel Stefan , Kluge Stefan , Schulze zur Wiesch Julian
Published: December 2022

This study shows that among hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infection at risk of disease progression, treatment with sotrovimab alone or in combination with remdesivir did not decrease in-hospital mortality. These real-world clinical findings in combination with previous
in vitro
data about lacking neutralizing activity of sotrovimab against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant do not support sotrovimab as a treatment option in these patients.
Computational Complexity of Theories of a Binary Predicate with a Small Number of Variables
Authors: Rybakov M.
Published: December 2022

Abstract—

We prove $$\Sigma _{1}^{0}$$-hardness of a number of theories of a binary predicate with three individual variables (in languages without constants or equality). We also show that, in languages with equality and the operators of composition and of transitive closure, theories of a binary predicate are $$\Pi _{1}^{1}$$-hard with only two individual variables.
Smoking, dietary factors and major age-related eye disorders: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Kai Jia-Yan , Zhou Miao , Li Dan-Lin , Zhu Ke-Yao , Wu Qian , Zhang Xiao-Feng , Pan Chen-Wei
Published: December 2022

Background

There is accumulating evidence of the associations between age-related eye diseases (AREDs) and smoking or dietary factors. We aimed to provide an umbrella review of the published literature pertaining to smoking or dietary intake as risk factors for major AREDs including cataract, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy.

Methods

We searched for pertinent systematic reviews or meta-analyses in PubMed and Web of Science until 16 April 2022. We reperformed the meta-analysis of each association using random effects models. The heterogeneity and 95% prediction interval were calculated. The presence of small-study effect or excess significance bias was also assessed.

Results

In total, 64 associations from 25 meta-analyses and 41 associations from 10 qualitative systematic reviews were evaluated. There was convincing (class I) evidence for only one association, namely current smoking and cataract. Two factors had highly suggestive (class II) evidence, namely ever smoking associated with cataract and fish consumption associated with AMD. We also found suggestive (class III) evidence for associations between the dietary intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C and the risk of cataract.

Conclusions

Smoking as a risk factor for cataract was the most robust association we identified. We also identified several dietary elements associated with AREDs. Large prospective studies are warranted to further examine the associations discussed in this review.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022339082.
Effects of frailty on patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery with flap reconstruction: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Wang Yuepeng , Zheng Yukai , Wen Zuozhen , Zhou Yuwei , Wang Yan , Huang Zhiquan
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To establish the implications of frailty as a predictor of outcome in patients with head and neck cancer requiring flap repair.

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Data source

We captured data from patients above 60 years old undergoing head and neck tumour resection and free flap reconstruction surgery between June 2019 and June 2020 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University. The data contain all treatment information.

Outcome variables

Surgery repeated in 30 days, postoperative complications, hospital length of stay, postoperative main biochemical standards.

Exposure variables

Age, sex, smoking history, alcoholism history, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance score and Clinical T staging were exposure variables. The frailty index is the main variable.

Result

A total of 254 patients were included in this study. Among them, 124 patients were classified as frail, while 130 patients were classified as non-frail. We found that frail patients stayed in the hospital longer than non-frail patients after surgery (p=0.018). According to the data of 26 frail patients who directly entered the intensive care unit (ICU), we found that these patients had a lower leucocyte count (p=0.005).

Conclusions

Frailty is a useful predictor of outcomes in patients undergoing head and neck cancer surgery with flap reconstruction. Frailty can be a clinical tool used to identify high-risk patients and guide perioperative care to optimise patient outcomes. Frail patients have better outcomes if they directly enter the ICU.
Rationale and design of leveraging the HIV platform for hypertension control in Africa: protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial in Uganda
Authors: Atukunda Mucunguzi , Kabami Jane , Mutungi Gerald , Twinamatsiko Brian , Nangendo Joan , Shade Starley B , Charlebois Edwin , Grosskurth Heiner , Kamya Moses , Okello Emmy
Published: December 2022

Introduction

There is a high burden of hypertension (HTN) among HIV-infected people in Uganda. However, capacity to prevent, diagnose and treat HTN is suboptimal. This study seeks to leverage the existing HIV-related infrastructure in primary care health facilities (HFs) using the integrated HIV/HTN care model to improve health outcomes of patients with HIV and HTN.

Methods and analysis

Integrated HIV/HTN study a type-1 effectiveness/implementation cluster randomised trial, will evaluate the effectiveness of a multicomponent model intervention in 13 districts randomised to the intervention arm compared with 13 districts randomised to control. Two randomly selected HFs per district and their patients will be eligible to participate. The intervention will comprise training of primary healthcare (PHC) providers followed by regular supervision, integration of HTN care into HIV clinics, improvement of the health management information system, IT-based messaging to improve communication among frontline PHCs and district-level managers. HTN care guidelines, sphygmomanometers, patient registers and a buffer stock of essential drugs will be provided to HFs in both study arms. We will perform cross-sectional surveys at baseline, 12 and 24 months, on a random sample of patients attending HFs to measure effectiveness of the integrated care model between 2021 and 2024. We will perform in-depth interviews of providers, patients and healthcare managers to assess barriers and facilitators of integrated care. We will measure the cost of the intervention through microcosting and time-and-motion studies. The outcomes will be analysed taking the clustered structure of the data set into account.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained from the Research Ethics Committees at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and Makerere University School of Medicine. All participants will provide informed consent prior to study inclusion. Strict confidentiality will be applied throughout. Findings will be disseminated to public through meetings, and publications.

Trial registration number

NCT04624061
Positive experiences of family caregivers of patients with chronic heart failure: protocol for a qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis
Authors: Yang Panpan , Guan Qingyi , Ma Mengzhen , Fan Yanyan
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Previous studies have highlighted the experiences of caregivers for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), specifically focusing on their negative experiences. There are few systematic reviews on the topic to synthesise the positive experiences of family caregivers for patients with CHF. This study will examine how experiences such as developing new skills, strengthening their relationships (between caregivers and recipients) and receiving appreciation from the care recipient assist to improve caregivers’ perception of their circumstances.

Methods and analysis

This review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for qualitative systematic reviews. Qualitative and mixed methods studies related to the positive experiences of family caregivers for patients with CHF, reported in English or Chinese and published from inception in the following databases will be included: PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Wan Fang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chongqing VIP, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Open Grey and Deep Blue Library databases. The standard JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research will be used by two independent reviewers to appraise the quality of the included studies, and the standardised JBI Qualitative Data Extraction Tool for Qualitative Research will be applied to extract data. The final synthesised findings will be graded according to the ConQual approach for establishing confidence in the output of qualitative research synthesis.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as no primary data are being collected. The results will be made available through a peer-reviewed publication.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021282159.
Protocol for a single group, mixed methods study investigating the efficacy of photovoice to improve self-efficacy related to balance and falls for spinal cord injury
Authors: Sessford James D , Chan Katherine , Kaiser Anita , Singh Hardeep , Munce Sarah , Alavinia Mohammad , Musselman Kristin E
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Many individuals living with spinal cord injury (SCI) experience falls and a fear of falling, both of which can impact participation in daily activities and quality of life. A single group, convergent mixed methods study will be conducted to examine the effects of a photovoice intervention on falls self-efficacy among individuals living with chronic SCI. Secondary objectives include examining the effects of photovoice on fear of falling, participation and quality of life and exploring participants’ experiences and perceptions of the photovoice intervention through qualitative interviews.

Methods and analysis

Adults with SCI (n=40) will be divided into groups according to their mobility status (ie, those who ambulate and those who primarily use a wheelchair). The study will be conducted virtually over three consecutive phases, totalling 30 weeks. Each group will self-report falls for 12 weeks prior to and following the intervention (phases 1 and 3, respectively). The 6-week photovoice intervention (phase 2) will be comprised of two photo assignments, two individual interviews with a researcher and a peer mentor, and four group meetings. Participants will discuss these photos at the interviews and group meetings. Standardised questionnaires of falls self-efficacy, fear of falling, participation and life satisfaction will be administered at four time points (ie, beginning of each phase and the end of phase 3). Questionnaire scores will be examined over time using repeated-measures analysis of variance. A semistructured interview will be completed at the end of phase 3 to gain feedback on the photovoice intervention. Qualitative data will be analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained prior to study enrolment. Findings will be shared through peer-reviewed scientific publications and participant-directed knowledge translation activities.

Trial registration number

NCT04864262.
Impact of COVID-19 on mental health of primary healthcare workers in Pakistan: lessons from a qualitative inquiry
Authors: Hameed Waqas , Avan Bilal Iqbal , Feroz Anam Shahil , Khan Bushra , Fatmi Zafar , Jafri Hussain , Wassan Mansoor Ali , Siddiqi Sameen
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The existing literature regarding the mental health consequences of COVID-19 among healthcare workers revolves predominantly around specialised hospital settings, while neglecting primary healthcare workers (PHCW) who are the first point of contact for patients. In view of negligible evidence, this study explored the mental health impact of COVID-19 and health system response, and sought suggestions and recommendations from the PHCWs to address their mental health needs during the pandemic crisis.

Design

We employed a qualitative exploratory design.

Setting

A total of 42 primary healthcare facilities across 15 districts in Sindh and Punjab provinces of Pakistan.

Participants

We telephonically conducted 47 in-depth interviews with health service providers and hospital managers. A combination of inductive and deductive approach was used for data analyses using NVivo V.11.0.

Results

There was immense fear, stress and anxiety among PHCWs being infected and infecting their families at the beginning of this outbreak and its peak which tapered off over time. It was triggered by lack of information about the virus and its management, false rumours, media hype, lack of personal protective measures (personal protective equipment, PPE) and non-cooperation from patients and community people. Trainings on awareness raising and the PPEs provided by the healthcare system, with emotional support from coworkers and supervisors, were instrumental in addressing their mental health needs. Additionally, they recommended appreciation and recognition, and provision of psychosocial support from mental health professionals.

Conclusion

Primary healthcare system should be prepared to provide timely informational (eg, continuous updates in training and guidelines), instrumental (eg, provision of PPE, appreciation and recognition), organisational (eg, safe and conducive working environment) and emotional and psychosocial support (eg, frequent or needs-based session from mental health professionals) to PHCWs in order to mitigate the mental health impact of pandemic crisis.
Heavy silicone oil tamponade: a multicentre experience
Authors: Davidson Max , Dowlut Samir , Zhang Jufen , Naderi Khayam , Sandinha Teresa , Wood Megan Kay , Schneiders Matthew , Saidkasimova Shohista , Peart Shamfa , Chaudhuri Ray , Gunda Manish , Saeed Manzar , Heussen Florian , Keller Johannes , Tarafdar Sonali , Chandra Aman
Published: December 2022

Objective

To report multicentred use of the heavy silicone oil Densiron 68 for anatomical reattachment following rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair and its associated complications.

Methods and analysis

Patients from seven vitreoretinal units within the UK that underwent RRD repair with Densiron 68 between January 2015 and December 2019 were identified. Primary outcome measures were primary and final reattachment rate, retained Densiron and failure rate. Secondary outcome measures were duration of tamponade, final visual acuity (VA) and complications of heavy silicone oil.

Results

134 eyes of 134 patients were involved in the study. Primary surgical success was achieved in 48.5%, while a final reattachment rate of 73.4% was observed. The mean duration of Densiron 68 tamponade was 139.5 days. Mean final VA was 1.01 (range 0–2.9). 8 eyes (6.0%) required long-term topical steroids for anterior uveitis, whereas none of the eyes required long-term pressure-lowering treatment. Emulsification rate was 10.7% (6 eyes).

Conclusion

This is the largest real-world study on Densiron 68 in the UK. Densiron 68 facilitates tamponade of inferior retinal pathology and may be considered as an option for tamponade of inferior retinal pathologies.
Changes in interpretation of spirometry by implementing the GLI 2012 reference equations: impact on patients tested in a hospital-based PFT lab in a large metropolitan city
Authors: Kitazawa Haruna , Jiang Annie , Nohra Cynthia , Ota Honami , Wu Joyce K Y , Ryan Clodagh M , Chow Chung-Wai
Published: December 2022

Background

The Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI-2012) focused on race/ethnicity as an important factor in determining reference values. This study evaluated the effects of changing from Canadian reference equations developed from an all-Caucasian cohort with European ancestry to the GLI-2012 on the interpretation of spirometry in a multiethnic population and aimed to identify the ethnic groups affected by discrepant interpretations.

Methods

Clinically indicated spirometry in a multiethnic population (aged 20–80 years) collected from 2018 to 2021 was analysed. The predicted and lower limit of normal (LLN) values were calculated using three sets of reference equations: Canadian, GLI-race/ethnic-based (GLI-Race) and GLI-race/ethnic-neutral (GLI-Other). We compared the prevalence of concordance in the abnormal diagnoses (defined as <LLN) for forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC among the three reference values, and evaluated whether race/ethnicity was associated with discordance.

Results

Data from 406 participants were evaluated (non-Caucasian 43.6%). There was 85%–87% concordance for normal/abnormal FVC and FEV1interpretations among the Canadian, GLI-Race and GLI-Other reference equations. In all ethnic groups, application of the Canadian references for interpretation led to a higher prevalence of abnormal (<LLN) FVC and FEV1compared with GLI-Race and GLI-Other. This trend was more prominent in Black, South-East Asian and Mixed/other ethnic groups when comparing the Canadian to the GLI-Race equations. In contrast, the discordance rates were similar among ethnic groups when compared with the GLI-Other reference equations. Interpretation of FEV1/FVC had a high rate of agreement among all equations.

Conclusion

Interpretation using Canadian reference equations was associated with a higher prevalence of restrictive physiology compared with the GLI-2012 equations, particularly if the GLI-Race were used. These observations were mostly found in non-white Caucasian groups, highlighting the need to choose reference equations that reflect closely the ethnic mix of the population being evaluated in order to optimise patient management.
Effect of renin–angiotensin system inhibitors in patients with cancer treated with anti-VEGF therapy
Authors: Moriyama Shohei , Hieda Michinari , Kisanuki Megumi , Kawano Shotaro , Yokoyama Taku , Fukata Mitsuhiro , Kusaba Hitoshi , Maruyama Toru , Baba Eishi , Akashi Koichi , Fukuda Haruhisa
Published: December 2022

Background

Cancer treatment with vascular endothelial growth factor signalling pathway (VSP) inhibitors frequently causes hypertension. Although previous reports suggested that the antihypertensive drug renin–angiotensin system inhibitor (RASI) may have a positive synergistic effect with VSP inhibitors, the actual impact on clinical outcomes is unknown.

Objectives

The study aims to clarify whether RASIs exhibit clinical benefits for patients with cancer with hypertension.

Method

From the Longevity Improvement and Fair Evidence Study database, comprising Japanese claims data between 2016 and 2020, we reviewed 2380 patients treated with VSP inhibitors who received antihypertensive treatment during cancer therapy. The patients were classified into two groups: with-RASI (n=883) and without-RASI (n=1497). In addition, 1803 of these patients treated for hypertension with RASI-only (n=707) or calcium channel blocker-only (n=1096) were also reviewed. The time-to-treatment failure (TTF), the interval from initiation of chemotherapy to its discontinuation, was applied as the primary endpoint.

Results

The median TTFs were 167 (60–382) days in the with-RASI group and 161 (63–377) days in the without-RASI group (p=0.587). All models, including Cox proportional hazard models and multiple propensity score models, did not reveal the superiority of with-RASI treatment. In the propensity score matching model, the HR for treatment with-RASI compared with that for without-RASI was 0.96 (95% CI 0.86 to 1.06, p=0.386). In addition, the TTFs of RASI-only were not superior to calcium channel blocker-only (p=0.584).

Conclusions

RASIs for hypertension do not benefit clinical outcomes during cancer therapy with VSP inhibitors. In addition, RASIs and calcium channel blockers have comparable clinical efficacy as first-line antihypertensive.
Hepatitis A and B vaccine uptake and immunisation among men who have sex with men seeking PrEP: a substudy of the ANRS IPERGAY trial
Authors: Le Turnier Paul , Charreau Isabelle , Gabassi Audrey , Carette Diane , Cotte Laurent , Pialoux Gilles , Tremblay Cécile , Spire Bruno , Chaix Marie-Laure , Meyer Laurence , Capitant Catherine , Delaugerre Constance , Raffi François , Molina Jean-Michel
Published: December 2022

Vaccination against hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) is recommended in men who have sex with men (MSM). We assessed HAV and HBV vaccine uptake in the non-immune participants and their immunisation during follow-up of the ANRS IPERGAY (Intervention Préventive de l'Exposition aux Risques avec et pour les Gays) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) trial.

During the ANRS IPERGAY trial among MSM (NCT 01473472), vaccination against HAV and HBV was offered free of charge to all non-immune participants at baseline. We assessed anti-HAV IgGs and anti-hepatitis B surface (HBs) antibodies (Abs) at baseline, 1–3 months after each vaccine dose and on the last follow-up visit. Vaccination uptake and immunisation were analysed in non-immune participants with at least 6 months of follow-up after the 1st vaccine dose.

A total of 427 MSM with a median age of 34.8 years were analysed. Median follow-up was 2.2 years (Q1–Q3, 1.6–2.9). Absence of anti-HAV IgG at baseline (50.4%, 215/427) was associated with younger age (p=0.0001). Among HAV non-immune participants, 96.1% (197/205) received one or more vaccine doses and 91.0% (172/189) received two vaccine doses. Among HBV non-immune participants, 97.6 % (81/83) received one or more vaccine doses and 78.4% (58/74) received three doses. On the last-visit sample, anti-HAV IgG and anti-HBs Abs were respectively detected in 94.8% (95% CI 90.0% to 97.7%) and 79.6% (95% CI 66.5% to 89.4%) of participants with complete vaccination and in 80.0% (95% CI 51.9% to 95.7%) and 40.0% (95% CI 16.3% to 67.7%) of participants with incomplete vaccination.

Vaccine acceptability against HAV and HBV infections was very high in MSM starting PrEP. Immunisation was high in participants with a full vaccination scheme. Physicians must consider PrEP visits as major opportunities to propose and complete HAV and HBV vaccination in at-risk non-immune subjects.
Quasiperiodic oscillation around charged black holes in Einstein–Maxwell-scalar theory
Authors: Rayimbaev Javlon , Abdujabbarov Ahmadjon , Abdulkhamidov Farukh , Khamidov Vokhid , Djumanov Sherzod , Toshov Javohir , Inoyatov Shukurillo
Published: December 2022

In the present paper, first, we study the event horizon properties of charged black holes (BHs) in Einstein Maxwell-scalar (EMS) gravity. Then, we investigate the circular motion of test particles’ around the BH in the EMS gravity. We also analyze the effects of the EMS parameters on the position of innermost circular orbits (ISCOs), energy, and angular momentum of the test particles corresponding to circular orbits. We provide detailed studies of the efficiency of energy release from EMS BHs based on the Hartle–Thorne model and fundamental frequencies of oscillations of particles along their circular stable orbits. Moreover, we have explored possible values of upper and lower frequencies of twin-peak quasiperiodic oscillations (QPOs) around the BHs. Finally, we obtain relationships between the BH charge and the EMS parameters using observational data from the QPOs detected in the microquasars: GRS 1905+105, GRO J 1655-40, H 1745+322, and XTE 1550-564.
Dynamic Instability of Hybrid Functionally Graded Porous Plate Under Arbitrary Pulsating Loads
Authors: Chen Chun-Sheng , Chen Shih-Feng , Lin Ming-Chung , Fung Chin-Ping
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the dynamic instability of hybrid functionally graded porous (FGP) plates under arbitrary periodic load is studied. The FGP plate composes of ceramic, functionally graded material (FGM) and metal. Four FGM core layers discussed include a non-pore perfect FGM layer and three imperfect FGM layers with different porosity distribution patterns. FGM layer properties are described by constituent volume fraction, porosity volume fraction and porosity distribution pattern. The Galerkin method and eigenfunctions transforms are used to establish the Mathieu-type governing equations. The influences of the load parameter, layer thickness ratio, constituent volume fraction, porosity distribution pattern and porosity volume fraction on the dynamic instability of hybrid FGP plates are investigated and discussed.
An Empirical Analysis of Scientific and Technological Knowledge and Manufacturing Linkages: South Korea, Mexico and Turkey
Authors: Tahsin Emine , Börü Furkan , Dingeç Kemal Dinçer
Published: December 2022

The basis of co-evolution of technological capabilities and industrial development is investigated in several studies. Given that, this paper considers pillars of the catching-up process and factors of entering the MIT (Middle Income Trap) for latecomers and aims to investigate the linkages between the “manufacturing sector growth” and “scientific and technological knowledge”. In this context, a times series analysis based on the ARDL methodology is used to explore the long-run and short-run dependencies between the manufacturing value-added and a set of variables that represent the scientific and technological knowledge. South Korea, Mexico, and Turkey are the countries chosen for our investigation. The patents and scientific articles are utilized as the basic measures of “scientific and technological knowledge” for the period 1990–2017. The main finding of the ARDL analysis is that the three counties have different manufacturing growth trajectories due to the differences in the use of human capital and the production of “scientific and technological knowledge”.
Effect of Concentration and pH of GO Solutions on the Pd-rGO@NF Electrode Prepared by Spontaneous Reduction for H2O2 Reduction in Acidic Media
Authors: Bai Xinyu , Wen Fenchun , Shi Lele , Zhang Naifeng , Chen Jingjing , Song Yajiao , Song Ming , Zhang Yao , Sun Limei
Published: December 2022

The Pd-rGO@NF composite electrodes were prepared by a simple and green two-step process of spontaneous reduction. Graphene oxide (GO) was first reduced directly by nickel foam (NF) to form a rGO@NF composite substrate. The effect mechanism of GO concentration and pH on the morphology and properties of rGO@NF was investigated by SEM, TEM, XRD and Raman. Increasing GO and H[Formula: see text] concentration can improve the reduction rate, deposit amount and reduction degree of GO on the surface of Ni foam. A uniform, compact and multi-fold rGO coating formed on the Ni skeleton surface at the GO concentration of 2[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text]L[Formula: see text] and pH of 7. Then, Pd[Formula: see text] was reduced by rGO on the NF surface to construct the 3D Pd-rGO@NF composite electrodes, which showed superior catalytic activity and stability for H2O2 reduction in acidic media compared to Pd-NF due to a higher surface area and better anti-acid corrosion from rGO layers.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Packing Structures and Local Stress in the Ge(100)/Si(110) Interface at Atomic Scale
Authors: Dai Feng , Li Jing , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2022

Defects and stress distribution in the interface of Ge/Si hetero-structures play an important role in silicon-based semiconductor devices. This work at atomic scale performs molecular dynamics simulations to study the packing characteristics in the Ge/Si interface and loading features on the atoms for different contacting configurations between Ge nanopillars and Si substrates. Based on the analysis of energy, composition, the distribution of hydrostatic pressure, the Lode–Nadai parameters of each atom as well as visualized atomic packing images in the interface regions, simulation results show that contacting configurations of the Ge nanopillar with the (100) surface and the (110) surface of the Si substrate significantly affect the stability of the interface structures. The load-bearing positions of the Si surface and the inter-diffusion among the atoms in the interface regions greatly contribute to the lattice distortion of the silicon substrate, the composition, defects, and local stress distribution in the interface regions.
Chapter 14. Summary and conclusions
Authors: Copestake Philip , Partington Mark A.
Published: December 2022

An updated sequence stratigraphic framework, comprising 39 third-order stratigraphic sequences, for the Jurassic–lowermost Cretaceous of the North Sea, is described by reference to key wells and seismic lines across the UK, Norway and Denmark sectors, and, where possible, to onshore UK outcrops. It appears evident that regional tectonics provided the main control on sequence development, particularly during the Late Jurassic. There is a close relationship between key sequence stratigraphic surfaces and many lithostratigraphic formation and member boundaries throughout the North Sea Jurassic. Four new sandstone members are defined. A biozonation scheme for the study interval is described that provides essential characterization of the defined sequences.
TempMesh – A Flexible Wireless Sensor Network for Monitoring River Temperatures
Authors: Burman Scott G. , Gao Jingya , Pasternack Gregory B. , Fangue Nann A. , Cadrett Paul , Campbell Elizabeth , Ghosal Dipak
Published: December 2022

For a Chinook salmon restoration project in the lower Yuba River in California, we designed and deployed a wireless sensor network to monitor river temperatures at micro-habitat scales. The study required that temperatures be measured along a 3 km study reach, across the channel, and into off-channel areas. To capture diel and seasonal fluctuations, sensors were sampled quarter-hourly for the full duration of the six-month juvenile salmon winter residency. This sampling duration required that nodes minimize power-use. We adopted event-based software on MSP430 micro-controllers with 433 MHz radio and minimized the networking duty-cycle. To address link failures, we included network storage. As the network lacked real-time clocks, data were timestamped at the destination. This, coupled with the storage, yielded timestamp inaccuracies, which we re-aligned using a novel algorithm. We collected over six months of temperature data from 35 sensors across seven nodes. Of the packets collected, we identified 21% as being incorrectly timestamped and were able to re-align 41% of these incorrectly timestamped packets. We collected temperature data through major floods, and the network uploaded data until the flood destroyed the sensors. The network met an important need in ecological sampling with ultra-low power (multi-year battery life) and low-throughput.
Finding Multidimensional Simpson's Paradox
Authors: Xu Jay , Pei Jian , Cong Zicun
Published: December 2022

Finding and analyzing Simpson's paradox, a well known statistical phenomenon, has found many applications. While the existing literature focuses on only analyzing the causes of identi ed Simpson's paradox, there is no systematic analysis on Simpson's paradox in multidimensional spaces. In this paper, we develop a simple yet practical approach to automatically identify all Simpson's paradox instances formed by various sub-populations and separator attributes in a multidimensional data set. Moreover, we analyze the distribution of the multidimensional Simpson's paradox instances on three real data sets with respect to dimensionality, size of sub-populations, participation of individual records, redundancy, and more. We obtain a series of interesting observations about a few questions that have never been asked before. The results open doors to a few interesting directions for future study. Moreover, this paper is an outcome from a high-school student summer research internship. It re ects our on-going e ort in promoting data science research to youth and high school students.
Feature Selection for Fault Detection and Prediction based on Event Log Analysis
Authors: Li Zhong , van Leeuwen Matthijs
Published: December 2022

Event logs are widely used for anomaly detection and prediction in complex systems. Existing log-based anomaly detection methods usually consist of four main steps: log collection, log parsing, feature extraction, and anomaly detection, wherein the feature extraction step extracts useful features for anomaly detection by counting log events. For a complex system, such as a lithography machine consisting of a large number of subsystems, its log may contain thousands of different events, resulting in abounding extracted features. However, when anomaly detection is performed at the subsystem level, analyzing all features becomes expensive and unnecessary. To mitigate this problem, we develop a feature selection method for log-based anomaly detection and prediction. Specifically, our method consists of three main modules: the Log Event Vectorization module that converts semi-structured log texts into time series; the Selection of Relevant Features module that leverages Kendall rank correlation and Granger causality test to select log events for fault detection and prediction; and the Removal of Redundant Features module that utilises Kendall rank correlation to reduce redundant log events. Results on 25 real-world datasets show that our method can detect and predict faults more accurately by selecting a small proportion of log events, thereby improving the effectiveness and efficiency.